JANUARY MEMBERSHIP MEETING: CITY OF DEL RIO

Colorful characters grand entrance at the January Membership meeting helped remind everyone of the January 6 Feast of the Three Kings.   
After a brief introduction by DRHCC Public Relations Maggie Roman of the Three Wise Men or Magi from HEB, the meeting continued with the introduction of City of Del Rio’s City Manager Henry Arredondo.    
Mr. Arredondo noted obvious changes to the condition of the streets in Del Rio were ongoing and introduced Interim Public Works Director Alejandro Garcia, P.E. and City Engineer Robert Parker, P.E. to explain the changes.
Mr. Garcia and Mr. Parker detailed the current water rehabilitation project commenced in May 2014 and that is ongoing in various parts of the City.  The expected completion date is set for May 2015 with a contract value of over $6.7 million dollars. 
The sewer rehabilitation project areas were identified and is also scheduled for completion in August 2015 with a contract value of over $4.2 million dollars.  Mr. Garcia noted that paving to “cover” these construction rehabilitation projects will be initiated once warmer weather arrives so that temperatures needed to ensure asphalt will adhere to the pavement are consistent.   
Mayor Robert Garza followed with an inspiring presentation.  Mayor Garza talked about recent changes in the structure of City government.  His goal has been and will continue to be increased transparency to the citizens as well as a more responsive City government.  A good example is the city budget process.  Department heads now appear before City Council to identify their needs and since the meetings are recorded for live or repeated broadcast, the citizens know where and how their tax dollars are being spent. 
Mayor Garza stated that while the traditional role of city government is to provide services to citizens in traditional areas – police fire, streets, water, sewer, garbage, public safety; he believe the City should have an expanded role.  He noted his efforts in involving community participation as in reorganized committees for a total approach in the decisions that affect our community.  
In addition Mayor Garza spoke about aesthetics – improving the general appearance of our community, how supporting the arts and history will improve the quality of life, and working on securing airline service.  
Mayor Garza’s noted the importance of expanding revenue sources with annexation, raising bridge revenue, reducing operating costs, sale of electricity, and improving our convention center facilities in order to bring conventions. In addition, a focus on economic development with the priority of a Water District, strengthening our ties to Laughlin Air Force Base, improving intra and inter city bus service and a new bridge are only a few of the many tasks that are being addressed. 
Carmen Gutierrez noted that with these and many other objectives require the community’s support.   
We encourage you to view the meeting online at the City of Del Rio website or for additional information, contact Henry Arredondo, City Manager at 830-775-8558.