In recent days, many voices in our community have raised passionate and valid concerns about the State of Texas’ plans to construct a border barrier along certain areas of riverfront land within or near the City of Laredo. The City acknowledges this long-standing community resistance to physical border walls barriers, and the pride that many Laredoans take in protecting the river as a cultural, environmental, and symbolic lifeline of our city.
The City Council’s recent decision to approve a lease easement involving approximately 1,600 feet of city-owned property near the Colombia Solidarity Bridge has understandably prompted questions. This segment represents only about 10% of a 3-mile state-led barrier project, the rest of which is being built on private property already under state agreement.
It is important to clarify: this lease does not mark a shift in city policy or a retreat from protecting our riverfront. Instead, it reflects a strategic choice to remain engaged, preserve oversight, and ensure the city retains a seat at the table in conversations that were proceeding regardless of municipal participation.
This decision was taken with the clear understanding that the State of Texas was moving forward with or without the City’s involvement. Approving the lease allows Laredo to maintain local control over how construction is coordinated, especially when it comes to emergency access, drainage infrastructure, and surrounding development impacts.
Even more importantly, this action strengthens the City’s ability to advocate for alternative, non-wall barrier security strategies in more sensitive and high-value areas of the river corridor —specifically downtown Laredo, the Chacon Creek trail system, and the Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course. These locations are vital to our identity, community wellness, and long-term economic prospects. The City continues to strongly support technology-driven solutions, enhanced patrol coordination, and natural or architectural designs that avoid the divisiveness and disruption of physical walls barriers.
The City of Laredo has a long and productive relationship with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, and we work collaboratively to ensure the safety of our residents and the security of the #1 port of entry in the United States.
It is equally important to recognize the true nature of our local safety concerns. As Laredo’s Police Chief has stated clearly:
“Laredo does not have an immigration problem—it has a cartel problem.”
This distinction shapes our public safety strategy. It also calls into question whether sweeping infrastructure projects like a border wall barrier actually address the issues we face. Local voices—especially those with deep roots in the community—should help guide the conversation.
This lease does not signal support for a border wall barrier. It represents a measured, protective, and forward-looking response to a situation where the City’s choice was not about stopping a project outright, but about staying involved in how it unfolds.
As City Manager, I reaffirm our commitment to:
- Safeguarding Laredo’s most valued public spaces,
- Prioritizing community input and transparency, and
- Making decisions that reflect both present realities and long-term vision.
We welcome continued civic engagement and recognize the concerns being voiced. While we may differ at times on the path forward, I believe we all share the same goal: protecting the place we call home—Laredo.
Yours in Partnership,
Joe Neeb, ICMA-CM, CEcD, CPM
