City of Laredo Ethics ad hoc advisory committee to meet

This Tuesday evening, July 31st, at 6pm, the City of Laredo Ethics advisory committee will be meeting for the first time in quite a while. The meeting is open to the public and will take place on the 3rd floor of Laredo's City Hall at 1110 Houston street, in conference room number 1.

Since VIDA's successful bid to get the committee active again, there have been several on the city's council and staff that have expressed concern with what the ethics committee might have in store. Notably, the city manager mentioned that, if the city is unable to raise the over $100,000 it raised last year from donors, it might present a problem because the city just might have to pay for their annual Washington/Austin reception(s) with taxpayer money.

As a taxpayer, I appreciate the city manager's concern but I would say that these receptions simply be done away with.  It's not proper for donors (some of whom may enjoy city contracts) to fund the mayor, council and staff's trip(s) and accompanying receptions.  If gives the appearance of impropriety and that is something that should definitely be avoided. Also, there is no need to saddle the taxpayers with the exorbitant bill.  Just don't go and asunto arreglado!