SUBJECT
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Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract and award the Cancer Screening and Early Detection Grant Program funds from the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas, to Gateway Community Health Center, Inc., in the total amount of $152,936.00 for a two (2) year term starting on January 01, 2026 to December 31, 2027. Funds will be accounted for in the Laredo Public Health Department Fund - Cancer Screening and Early Detection Grant.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
On January 20, 2026, Council approved Ordinance 2026-O-01.
BACKGROUND
As a result of the grant application the City of Laredo Public Health was awarded the Cancer Screening and Early Detection Grant from the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas. Through this award, Laredo Public Health will work Gateway Community Health Center to carry out programmatic activities in support of the V.I.D.A. Project. The intent of this project is to improve access to breast cancer screening, Hepatitis C screening, patient navigation, outreach, and advocacy services for residents of Zapata, Jim Hogg, and Webb Counties.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
• Goal 7.1: Improve access to health services for all residents.
• Policy 7.1.1: Expand access to preventive healthcare services in underserved communities.
• Goal 7.3: Prevent and reduce chronic disease and promote early detection.
• Policy 7.3.1: Support programs that increase cancer screenings and reduce barriers to early diagnosis.
• Policy 7.3.2: Promote community education and prevention initiatives addressing lifestyle-related risk factors for chronic disease.
• Goal 7.5: Strengthen public health systems and partnerships.
• Policy 7.5.4: Collaborate with community health providers to expand access to preventive services.
Summary of alignment: This action aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by expanding access to cancer screening, early detection, and patient navigation services for residents in Webb and surrounding counties. Through partnership with Gateway Community Health Center, the program strengthens regional outreach and preventive care services, reducing barriers to screening and improving early diagnosis outcomes. These efforts support the Plan’s goals of preventing chronic disease, reducing health disparities, and strengthening partnerships that improve access to essential health services for underserved populations.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approves the Introductory Ordinance.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2025
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: Cancer Screening & Early Detection Grant
Account #: 226-6517
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The revenue account is 226-0000-327-9065 and the expenditure division is 226-6517 with Project Number HEVI01 and HEVI02.