Beyond the Headlines: The past wants its paycheck, City Council proposes increasing bridge tolls
LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - Talk about a possible payback plan—the past wants its paycheck. Four former Laredo City Council members are demanding back pay, citing a $20,000 salary boost outlined in a revised 2016 ordinance.
The group includes:
- Roberto Balli (District 8)
- Daisy Campos Rodriguez (District 2)
- Rudy Gonzalez (District 1)
- Vidal Rodriguez (District 2)
The debate stems from an updated ordinance approved in September 2024, setting a base salary of $50,000 for council members and $75,000 for the mayor—a roughly 40% increase for current officeholders.
However, City Attorney Doanh “Zone” Nguyen maintains the city’s position is clear: the claims lack merit. “The ordinance in 2016 was paid properly. The 2024 changes apply going forward, so their demands are retrospective and unfounded,” Nguyen explained, emphasizing that allowances and salaries were handled in compliance at the time. He added, “I’ve defended a lot of these cases, and on the flip side, I’ve won a lot of these cases, so I have the perspective to defend.”
Bridge Toll Increase Proposed to Fund Infrastructure Expansion
Laredo bridge tolls may soon rise, with city officials proposing an increase to support long-overdue expansion projects and maintain port operations.
Currently set at $3.50, the toll is consistent with other ports, but Mayor Dr. Victor Treviño argues that Laredo’s status as the nation’s busiest port justifies the adjustment, arguing the city must remain competitive while addressing critical infrastructure needs.
While some stakeholders are open to the idea, they urge caution.
Rick Laurel, Chair of the Laredo Port of Entry Advisory Committee, warned of potential risks:
“It’s a sensitive topic and sensitive monies coming from Laredo’s golden goose, but we can’t let it get out of control. It’s a slippery slope, but the difference would support infrastructure expansion and necessities we’re falling short on. At the same time, we must stay competitive with other ports to avoid deterring traffic.”
The proposal has been forwarded to the Port of Entry Committee for evaluation.
Panel Highlights: Spotify Wrapped, Bowling Skills, and Pantone’s 2025 Color
Our panel couldn’t stop talking about their Spotify Wrapped stats, lack of bowling talent, and the unveiling of Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year.
For more headlines, click here.
Copyright 2024 KGNS. All rights reserved.