Investigative Report: Rio Grande City Commission Meeting - January 28, 2026

The Rio Grande City Commission will gather on January 28, 2026, to authorize a series of expansive municipal projects and grant applications that will define the city fiscal trajectory for the coming year. Residents will see a massive push for infrastructure as the city prepares to award a bid for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Re-Bid Expansion Project, a venture funded by the Texas Water Development Board that will carry an estimated cost well over 1,000,000 dollars.

Major Infrastructure and Economic Initiatives

The governing body will consider the second reading of a resolution that facilitates an economic development project for the La Ganadera Meat Market, which will initiate a mandatory sixty-day petition period for public feedback. In a parallel move to improve utility services, the commission will seek professional engineering services for the East Water Loop Project and administrative oversight for library broadband upgrades. Furthermore, the city will move to finalize plans for the Fort Ringgold Pool and Waterpark improvements, ensuring that public recreational facilities will meet the needs of a growing population.

Public Safety and Federal Grant Acquisitions

Law enforcement and emergency services will take center stage as the City Manager moves to apply for multiple Department of Justice grants including the JAG program and the Victims of Crime Act formula grant. The commission will also deliberate on the acceptance of funds for Operation Lone Star and the acquisition of specialized rifle-resistant body armor for local officers. To further bolster fire protection services, officials will look to approve the purchase of a diesel brush truck through the Texas A and M Forestry Rural VFD Assistance Program.

Governance and Contractual Oversight

Administrative matters will include the formal call for a General Election to be held on May 2, 2026, and the approval of a contract with the Starr County Elections Administrator to manage the voting process. The commission will also review several service contracts including elevator maintenance for the Public Safety Building and consulting services for the Public Utilities Department. Final approvals for the 7 Brew Rio Grande Plat and the M.C. Rodriguez Subdivision will also be on the table, signaling continued residential and commercial expansion within the city limits.

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Official Source: View Original Agenda PDF