SUBJECT
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Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance of the City of Laredo, Texas, authorizing the City Manager to accept and enter into a contract from the Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program, amending the FY2025-2026 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $162,231.00, with no match for the City of Laredo Public Health Department, and amend the FY2025-2026 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by creating one (1) Licensed Professional Counselor, 208 position, for the term from August 01, 2025 through July 31, 2027. Funds will be accounted for in the Laredo Public Health Department Fund - Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Minority Research and Education 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: Ensure affordability and accessibility of mental and behavioral health services for underserved populations.
• Goal 7.4: Foster a culture of health through education and public health initiatives.
• Policy 7.4.4: Expand education, outreach, and prevention programs addressing behavioral and mental health.
• Goal 7.5: Strengthen public health systems and partnerships.
• Policy 7.5.4: Promote collaboration with universities and community organizations to improve local health capacity.
Summary of alignment: This ordinance aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by expanding access to behavioral and mental health services and strengthening the City’s mental health infrastructure. Through collaboration with Texas A&M International University and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the program enhances community education, outreach, and access to screenings and counseling. It also invests in the development of the local mental health workforce, directly supporting the Plan’s goals to improve health equity, foster education-based prevention, and build strong partnerships that advance long-term wellness and community resilience.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
None.
BACKGROUND
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program, in collaboration with Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) as the coordinating center, partners with the City of Laredo Public Health Department to strengthen and improve mental health awareness, access, and infrastructure in Laredo, Texas. Conducting community assessments, expanding education and outreach efforts, increasing access to free mental health screenings and services, and support the development of the local mental health workforce.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approves the Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Minority Health Research and Education Grant Program
Account #: 226-6412
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The revenue account is 226-0000-326-2013 and the expenditure division is 226-6412 with Project Number HEME01 and HEME02.