City prepares for record-breaking Lifesaving Association competition

In a recent government meeting, South Padre Island officials discussed key upcoming events and administrative matters, including a significant lifeguard competition and the submission of the city’s capital improvement plan and proposed budget.

Fire Chief Jim Pigg announced that the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA) competition is set to take place next week, with expectations of around 700 participants, potentially reaching a record 1,000. Pigg emphasized the need for volunteers to assist during the event, which is anticipated to draw considerable attention to the island.

Following the public comments, Wendy Delgado, Director of Operations, presented the Capital Improvement Plan, which is a requirement under the Home Rule Charter. She noted that the plan had been previously discussed during budget workshops and included a summary of projects completed in the current budget year. The council approved the submission of the plan, with a public hearing scheduled for the following week.

Rodrigo, another city official, then submitted the proposed budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, adhering to the charter's requirement for submission 60 days prior to the new fiscal year. He highlighted that this meeting marks the fourth discussion on the budget, which has undergone minor adjustments since initial workshops held in June and July.

The meeting concluded with the council's unanimous approval of both the capital improvement plan and the proposed budget, setting the stage for further discussions and public hearings in the coming weeks.