2025-26 Certified Public Manager (CPM) Final Practicums - PM Session, 10/16/2026

The City of Laredo’s 2025–26 Certified Public Manager (CPM) final practicum session was held October 16, 2026, and featured presentations on public-library partnerships and affordable housing. The procurement-relevant proposals focused on housing: a Community Development presenter recommended a three-year pilot using local funding to supplement federal housing resources, potentially supporting a $4.5–$5 million project that could provide an estimated 10–12 studio or one-bedroom units. The proposed steps include issuing an RFP for design and later soliciting and awarding a construction contract. A second presenter outlined a phased, five-year approach to assess city-owned land and municipal housing funds, compare rehabilitation with new construction, and set funding targets only after a financial feasibility review. Neither proposal was approved, and no contract award, procurement vote, or spending authorization occurred during the session.

The library presentation proposed coordinating public education and outreach across city departments; it included an illustrative estimate of up to $2.3 million in potential personnel savings through reallocating outreach responsibilities, not an adopted budget action. Panelists offered feedback on research, scope, feasibility, and coordination among departments. The session was a professional-development presentation rather than a decision-making meeting, and no procurement activity was authorized.