City of Laredo leaders on Oct. 20 directed management to deliver a written update on plans to rehabilitate the Plaza Theatre and to evaluate whether the Plaza or another site could serve as a civic center. Council also discussed a previously approved feasibility effort for a downtown convention center and moved several venue items into executive session to get a closed‑door update on property negotiations.

Council member Alyssa Sigabroa and others said the city lacks a medium‑sized civic facility between existing small venues and the large arena and asked management to return with a timeline, cost projections and any constraints tied to previously earmarked funds. City staff said approximately $9 million remained from the sale of a prior civic center (money directed to the Plaza Theatre) but that recent design estimates exceed the current budget and that the project team is adjusting scope.

Mayor Victor D. Trevino and staff confirmed the Plaza Theatre work is underway in phases: roof and facade projects are moving forward while interior design numbers come in higher than the initial budget. Council asked for a full history of how funds were reallocated and whether the Plaza’s stage and seating could satisfy civic center uses; staff said the Plaza’s existing stage might be too small for some civic events and recommended a formal evaluation.

Separately, the council revisited an earlier, larger feasibility study for a convention/multi‑use center and the entertainment district near the arena and unit‑trade area. Mayor Trevino said the city has completed multiple feasibility studies since 2005 and that the council should avoid “endless feasibility studies” without clear next steps. For the convention center agenda item, staff asked to handle a parcel negotiation update in executive session; the council voted to move the matter into executive session for a property‑negotiation briefing.

Action: Council voted to direct staff to prepare a comprehensive report documenting the Plaza Theatre project history, available funds, design status, and a comparison of civic‑center options; staff was also directed to return with cost estimates and a recommendation on whether to pursue the Plaza or a new site. The motion passed by voice vote.