Laredo Mayoral Hopefuls Lay Out First-100-Day Priorities as Early Voting Continues

Five candidates are on the ballot for mayor of Laredo in a race that is drawing close attention this election cycle. As of Oct. 22, nearly 14,000 people had cast early ballots in Webb County.

The field consists of the incumbent, a sitting council member, a former council member, a businessman and a newcomer. Four of the five candidates described what they would prioritize during their first 100 days in office.

Incumbent Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino said his main concern is public health, with a particular emphasis on young people. "We need to ensure that our youth are taken care of. Have the ability to have medical services," he said. He added that a healthy pediatric and adolescent population would shape the city's future residents.

District 8 Councilwoman Alyssa Cigarroa said she would concentrate on unity and on bringing council members together. Her approach would start with learning the needs and goals of every council district and then setting a shared vision. "So that way we, work backwards from there," she said.

Customs broker J.D. Gonzalez said he wants to drive business growth in Laredo and to review the city's water system master plan. He said city leaders should be engaged so the community keeps its current momentum, and that he would address the water pressure and flow problems the city has been experiencing. Gonzalez also said he wants to look at the permitting process and speed it up.

Former Council Member Alfonso "Poncho" Casso said water would be his top priority. He said the river needs to be saved and an alternative water source should be found. For the short term, he proposed drilling on public-school land so that the revenue goes back to students. His long-term answer, he said, is a "Gulf water triangle" that he wants to create.

KGNS contacted Jorge Garza, the fifth candidate on the ballot, for comment but did not receive a reply.