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.
Northside Sanitary Sewer Project Phase 1
The city awarded a contract for the Northside Sanitary Sewer Phase 1 project to expand sewer capacity and support future growth.
Proposed Property Tax Rate and Budget
The council reviewed the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 during a public hearing, discussing online tools like the budget explorer to help residents understand city spending.
Bridge Toll Adjustments
Amtrak finally gave the Del Rio station a much-needed facelift, making it a lot less of an eyesore for commuters. It’s a solid upgrade that makes waiting for your train actually bearable.
City Employee Health Benefits
Del Rio just brought on a new city manager to take the wheel on daily operations. Since this person calls the shots for city departments, we’ll likely see some changes in how things get done around town.
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.
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.
City Council Leadership Transition
Del Rio’s city council just cleaned house, firing the city attorney and cutting ties with the city manager. This sudden leadership shakeup means we’re likely looking at a total pivot in how the city handles upcoming projects and daily operations.