BID asks for inclusive planning for Cesar Chavez tribute and backs updated vacant-building ordinance

The Downtown Business Improvement District voted Nov. 18 to co-sign a letter asking that local advocates and downtown stakeholders be included in planning a proposed Cesar Chavez tribute and related public-space work.

Members of the Laredo Advocacy Coalition asked the BID to seek community input on design and placement so the tribute reflects local history and connects to existing downtown streets and neighborhoods. A board member introduced a motion to approve and cosign the coalition’s letter; the motion received a second and passed by voice vote.

Separately, a subcommittee reported unanimous approval of updates to the vacant-building ordinance and Chapter 3 incentive recommendations aimed at encouraging building reuse and supporting retail and restaurant tenants. The board moved to recommend adoption of the subcommittee’s recommendations and approved that motion by voice vote.

Board members and public commenters stressed the importance of community involvement in public art and streetscape decisions. Several speakers asked for more information on who is leading the mural/tribute design process after reporting that bids had already been issued; the BID asked for greater coordination so local artists and stakeholders can participate.

The motions were passed by voice vote; the record shows 'aye' responses but no roll-call tally or individual vote record appears in the transcript.

Next steps: the BID will sign and return the letter of support, and the board recommended that city decision-makers consider the subcommittee’s ordinance revisions and incentive language when moving forward.