Laredo Mayor Reflects on Progress, Setbacks and What's Next

Entering the second half of his term, Laredo Mayor Victor Trevino discusses infrastructure, public trust and cross-border issues.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:39am

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As Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino enters the latter half of his term, he says the past year has been defined by hard lessons in governance, renewed focus on infrastructure and a clearer understanding of what Laredo residents expect from City Hall. The failure of the city's bond election in May 2025 served as a turning point, underscoring the need for better communication with residents. Water infrastructure and cross-border cooperation remain key priorities for the mayor.

Why it matters

Laredo, a border city, faces unique challenges in infrastructure, public trust and cross-border cooperation. The mayor's reflections provide insights into how local leadership is navigating these issues and shaping the city's future.

The details

The failed bond election in 2025 was a wake-up call for the city, showing the need for clearer communication with residents. Water infrastructure is a pressing challenge, with nearly half of the city's pipes over 50 years old. The mayor credited the utilities director with bringing stability and accountability to the department. On cross-border cooperation, the Binational River Conservation project has stalled, but protecting the Rio Grande and maintaining communication remain essential as the federal government explores border wall construction.

  • The city's bond election failed in May 2025.
  • A boil water notice was issued in October 2024.
  • The first phase of the pipe-bursting project was completed, and Phase Two has started.
  • Design and construction of border wall segments along Laredo's riverbanks are planned for January to March 2026.
  • City Manager Joseph Neeb will reach three years in the position in January.

The players

Victor Trevino

The mayor of Laredo, Texas, who is reflecting on the progress, setbacks and future priorities for the city.

Joseph Neeb

The Laredo city manager, who has brought stability, professionalism and consistency to the city's organization, according to the mayor.

Gilbert Gonzalez

The District I Councilmember who has been appointed as the mayor pro tem, a role the mayor describes as increasingly important.

Omar Al-Zabet

The Laredo Utilities Director, whom the mayor credited with bringing stability and accountability to the department.

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What they’re saying

“The bond election was a wake-up call for both the city and the community. It showed us that we must create a better, clearer channel of communication with the public.”

— Victor Trevino, Mayor

“The boil water notice was a difficult moment, but it also created an opportunity to address long-overdue issues.”

— Victor Trevino, Mayor

“Mr. Neeb has brought stability, professionalism and consistency to the organization. His leadership has helped rebuild confidence in City Hall.”

— Victor Trevino, Mayor

“For me, the mayor pro tem position requires maturity, steadiness and sound judgment.”

— Victor Trevino, Mayor

“Public service requires constant growth. Every challenge brings a new solution.”

— Victor Trevino, Mayor

What’s next

Upcoming meetings in Washington will be critical to protecting Laredo's interests as the federal government explores the construction of border wall segments along portions of the city's riverbanks.

The takeaway

Laredo's mayor is navigating the challenges of infrastructure, public trust and cross-border cooperation, using lessons from setbacks like the failed bond election to drive progress and better serve the community. The city's unique position as a border town shapes its priorities and the mayor's approach to governance.