City Council Special Meeting, 08/21/2026

The City Council of Laredo held a special meeting on August 21, 2026, primarily to discuss and approve a resolution for holding a special election to fill the vacancy in District 8. The council agreed to hold the special election on December 5, 2026, within the legally required 120-day window, with candidate applications opening on September 5 and closing on October 5. The council authorized contracting with Webb County to administer the election, removing language that allowed for other election administrators. The estimated cost of the election was discussed, with figures ranging from $18,000 to $80,000, but the council expects Webb County's involvement to help control costs, with an average estimate around $60,000. The council emphasized the importance of providing a fair and reasonable opportunity for candidates and voters despite the additional expense. The motion to proceed with the election and contract negotiations passed unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned to continue with budget discussions.