Focusing on critical infrastructure upgrades, the Brownsville City Commission approved a $3.5 million contract at its Tuesday City Commission Meeting to expand the city landfill. It authorized the use of eminent domain for a significant drainage improvement project. The meeting also included community-focused recognitions, with proclamations declaring April 7–13 as National Public Health Week and April as Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month.
Commissioners voted to award 4XA Construction Group a $3.49 million contract to construct Cell No. 5 at the city landfill, expanding the city’s waste disposal capabilities in compliance with state and federal environmental standards.
Following an executive session, the Commission approved using eminent domain to acquire land for the North Main Drain and Four Corners Project. The project aims to reduce flooding for over 19,000 residents and about 1,000 homes. It is part of a broader Port Isabel H-10 watershed study strategy.
In other business, commissioners unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing the 30th anniversary of National Public Health Week. The proclamation honored local health professionals and initiatives that have helped improve wellness across the region. The city’s public health department was applauded for its efforts, including programs like BTX Health and the “Healthy Starts Here Community Coalition.”
The Commission also declared April Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month, honoring the memory of Luis Manuel Leal Lozano, a Brownsville resident who passed away from the disease in 2020 at the age of 42. The proclamation emphasized the importance of early detection and public education to improve survival rates.
The Internal Services Department was praised for its successful renovation of City Hall and the Brownsville Senior Center.
The Commission also recognized Odee Ann Leal Leon, Director of Emergency Management, who received the Public Service Excellence Award from the South Texas All Hazards Committee.
