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.
Firefighter specialized certification pay
Firefighters want monthly pay for specialized certifications like fire inspector, investigator, and plans examiner — work they say the state requires them to do already. The city wants to understand what's legally required before offering a counter.
Second International Bridge and Presidential Permit
The consultant is expected to finalize the presidential permit within weeks; once the city reviews it, it goes to the U.S. Coast Guard. The board got no major update this month.
Consolidation of Advisory Commissions
The council eliminated the Airport Commission, which rarely met, and now airport matters go straight through the city manager to the council. One citizen objected, saying volunteer boards serve residents.
Buena Vista Pool rehabilitation contract and conflict-of-interest debate
The council awarded a $941,000 contract to fix Buena Vista Pool to a company owned by Councilman Quiñones, who abstained. Members defended the process — two bid rounds with almost no responses and about $600,000 in savings — but a citizen questioned the ethics and two members voted no.
Airport runway redesignation project
The city is formally telling TxDOT it wants to sponsor a runway redesignation project at Del Rio International Airport, committing a 10% local match funded by international bridge reserves.
Golf course beverage availability
A citizen complained golfers couldn't even buy water before the new vending contractor takes over; staff said they'll ensure water availability and the new rollout is expected by mid-to-late January.
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.
City budget constraints and fund balance limits
The city walked the union through its finances: a $31.9 million general fund where fire takes about a fifth, and a $16.2 million fund balance where $10 million is legally tied to the second international bridge and can't fund raises.
Firefighter pay and certification compensation
The city and the firefighters union are negotiating pay. The city offered a 2% across-the-board raise costing roughly $75,000-$95,000, but certification pay — a key sticking point — is still being researched and won't be answered until the next meeting.
Storage Shed Setback Variance at 212 West Dignowity
A property owner requested a variance to allow an existing storage shed to sit one foot from the property line. The board approved a compromise allowing a three-foot setback.
Modernization of Chapter 30 Special Permits and Conditions
A property owner requested a special permit to place a double-wide manufactured home in an R-S-O zoning district after removing old barracks. The board approved the request following floodplain and asbestos compliance assurances.
Carport Setback and Unpermitted Construction
A homeowner requested a zero-foot side setback for a carport to assist with upcoming medical procedures and accessibility. The board approved the variance.
Road Construction
Val Verde County is taking out a loan of over $2.1 million to repave and repair roads in all four precincts. If you drive around town, expect to see some major construction zones popping up soon.
Data Center Moratorium
Del Rio politicians are pushing for a temporary timeout on new data centers to figure out how they'll drain our local power grid and water resources. It's a quick breather to make sure big tech doesn't run up our utility bills or leave us in the dark.