Mayor Trevino addresses Laredo Job Corps closure and community health initiatives

The Laredo City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to address several pressing community issues, including health awareness, youth employment programs, and environmental initiatives.

The meeting began with an invitation from Gateway to a bridal association regarding upcoming events in June, aimed at promoting diversity and inclusiveness within the community. However, the discussion quickly shifted to more urgent matters when Mayor Rodrigo Trevino provided updates on city initiatives, notably highlighting Alzheimer's Awareness Month. He emphasized Laredo's high prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and the need for improved community health practices to combat related lifestyle issues.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the Laredo Job Corps Center, which has been a vital resource for local youth since its establishment in 1964. Mayor Trevino expressed concern over the recent announcement from the Department of Labor regarding the program's potential closure, which could impact hundreds of young adults seeking vocational training and education. Alejandra Aceves, the center's director, reported that the program has consistently ranked among the top in the nation, providing essential skills and support to students. She noted that the center currently serves 220 young people, with staff working diligently to ensure their safety and continued education amid the uncertainty.

Council members voiced their support for the Job Corps, recognizing its role in helping youth transition into productive members of society. They discussed potential avenues for advocacy to secure the program's future, emphasizing the economic and social benefits it brings to Laredo.

Additionally, representatives from the Rio Grande International Study Center presented an upcoming workshop focused on air quality monitoring in Laredo and Nuevo Laredo. They invited council members to participate in a community engagement initiative aimed at improving local air quality through data collection and public awareness.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to support the Job Corps and engage with community initiatives that promote health and environmental sustainability. The discussions underscored the council's dedication to addressing the needs of Laredo's youth and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.