Laredo veterans committee names liaison to work with city on proposed community center

The Laredo Veterans Committee voted by voice to nominate Ricardo Guijano as the committee’s representative to the City of Laredo’s site-selection effort for a proposed veterans community center.

The committee’s chair opened the discussion by saying the mayor’s office asked the veterans committee to provide representation before the city names its own panel. Committee members discussed forming a 3–5 member subcommittee to work with the city and noted an expected federal seed contribution of about $1,000,000 that would support the project.

After debate about whether to appoint up to five representatives from key veterans service organizations, a committee member moved to appoint representatives who had already met with the mayor’s office; the motion was amended, and members agreed to instead nominate a single liaison to coordinate the group’s input. A second was recorded and the voice vote approved the nomination; the chair announced, “Motion passes.”

Ricardo Guijano, who said he represents both the Texas Military Department and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, accepted the nomination and committed to circulating building details and coordinating site visits through the committee’s group chat so other members can attend.

Committee members emphasized that while a single liaison will present findings to the city, other veterans organization members will be invited to visit potential buildings and contribute recommendations. One member said the committee should still finalize bylaws that will guide how representatives are selected and how the liaison reports back.

Following the vote, a committee member read a letter—signed by the chairman—requesting assistance from U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar to secure federal funding to establish the proposed “Propulse Center,” described in the letter as a city-site veterans resource and wellness hub for gatherings, programs and collaboration with local agencies.

The committee adjourned after a brief opportunity for final comments; Guijano said he would share additional details with members as they become available.