Del Rio · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Del Rio public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Police Contract Negotiations
Del Rio's officers could see raises of 2.5% (plus a half-percent in March), 3.5%, and 4% over three years. The city insisted on dropping the Me Too clause so other city staff raises wouldn't automatically apply to police, and the union agreed in exchange for a richer wage package.
Animal Control Ordinance
New rules let animal services seize aggressive dogs — not just dogs that attack people — closing a gap that left neighbors and livestock unprotected. Permits to keep such dogs will cost $50 to $125.
Public Safety Staffing and Civil Service Exams
The Civil Service Commission certified a police senior officer eligibility list and disqualified an exam candidate who did not meet time-in-grade requirements. Ensuring strict adherence to promotional rules maintains fairness and legal compliance within the police department.
City Attorney Resignation and Administrative Turnover
The city council appointed a new city attorney for $140,000 annually, though a council member raised concerns about a formal complaint regarding the hiring process.
Traffic Management near Schools
After a recent scare at Ceniza Hills Elementary, the school district is reviewing how they handle emergency pickups. It’s a wake-up call for parents to make sure they know the drill before the next crisis hits.
Oncology Infusion Initiative
Hospital CEO Jorge Curado presented a $1.1 million plan to build a USP 800 clean room for cancer infusion treatments, saving local cancer patients from traveling hours out of town for care.
Neighborhood Services, Code Enforcement, and New State Food Truck Laws
Scott Carcassi reviewed code enforcement, vector control, lot abatement, and major upcoming state regulations taking effect July 1st that shift food truck permitting and enforcement to the state.