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 Texas Spay and Neuter Program Grant, in the estimated total amount of $500,000 per grant year, with no match for the City of Laredo Public Health Department for a one (1) year term, to be effective on the signature date of the agreement and will expire on August 31, 2027, 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 - Animal Care Services - Texas Spay and Neuter Program Grant.
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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 Texas Spay and Neuter Program Grant. Through this award, the City of Laredo Public Health Department, Animal Care Services Division, will be able to provide Spay/Neuter services for dogs and cats owned or in the custody of Texas residents, rescue organizations, shelters, or government entities in urban and rural areas to reduce the population of cats and dogs at risk for unplanned breading that may carry infectious diseases.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
• Goal 7.2: Prevent and control risks to public health and safety.
• Policy 7.2.8: Support animal population control and vaccination programs to reduce risks of zoonotic disease transmission and improve community safety.
• Goal 7.5: Strengthen public health systems and operations.
• Policy 7.5.1: Ensure animal care and public health programs are adequately resourced and responsive to community needs.
• Goal 7.6: Protect the community from environmental and public safety hazards.
• Policy 7.6.1: Support programs that reduce environmental and safety risks related to stray and uncontrolled animal populations.
Summary of alignment: This resolution aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by supporting humane animal population control efforts that reduce the number of stray and unplanned animals in the community. Expanding spay and neuter services helps prevent overpopulation, reduces risks of animal-related injuries and disease transmission, and supports safer neighborhoods and healthier environments. These efforts strengthen Animal Care Services operations while advancing the Plan’s goals of protecting public health, improving community safety, and promoting responsible animal care practices.
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: Texas Spay and Neuter Program Grant
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funds will be appropriated once awarded.