SUBJECT
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A resolution of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas, authorizing the City Manager to submit an application to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the Innovative Mental Health Services Research Grant, in the estimated total amount of $400,000 per grant year, with no match for the City of Laredo Public Health Department for a five (5) year term, from December 01, 2026 through November 30, 2031, for a total estimated amount not to exceed $2,000,000.00; and further authorizing the City Manager to execute all documents resulting from the award of this grant. Any funding as a result of this application will be appropriated in the Laredo Public Health Department Fund - Innovative Mental Health Services Research Grant.
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
• Goal 7.1: Improve access to health services for all residents.
• Policy 7.1.2: Increase access to affordable mental and behavioral health services for underserved populations.
• Goal 6.2: Promote psychological and emotional well-being.
• Policy 6.2.1: Support coordinated mental health response systems that improve outcomes during behavioral health crises.
• Goal 7.4: Foster a culture of health through education, research, and public health initiatives.
• Policy 7.4.4: Support research and innovation to improve mental health prevention, treatment, and service delivery.
• Goal 7.5: Strengthen public health systems and partnerships.
• Policy 7.5.4: Promote collaboration with public safety, healthcare, and community partners to address complex health challenges.
Summary of alignment: This resolution aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by advancing innovative, data-driven approaches to improve mental health crisis response and service delivery. Through collaboration with the Laredo Frontline Integrated Response Safety Team (FIRST), the project strengthens coordination between public health, emergency response, and behavioral health systems. The proposed research focuses on improving access, continuity, and effectiveness of mental health services for underserved and high-need populations, directly supporting the Plan’s goals to enhance behavioral health outcomes, promote community well-being, and strengthen integrated public health systems.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
None.
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo Public Health Department wishes to apply for this funding opportunity by the Department of Health and Human Services for the Innovative Mental Health Services Research Grant. Through this award, the City of Laredo Public Health Department, in collaboration with the Laredo Frontline Integrated Response Safety Team (FIRST) - City of Laredo Police Department, will be able to conduct research to improve outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health related emergencies. This collaborative effort will generate data and insights to inform and enhance the design, accessibility, effectiveness, and continuity of mental health services. The focus will be on identifying strategies that maximize public health impact and benefit individuals who are living with or are at risk of developing mental illness, particularly in underserved and high-need populations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approve the Resolution.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N/A
Source of Funds: Innovative Mental Health Svcs Research Grant
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funds will be appropriated once awarded.