LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - Each Laredo city council member received $500,000 in the current budget cycle to spend on projects in their districts, money borrowed through certificates of obligation that taxpayers must repay.

The district priority funds , which went into effect on October 1, allow councilmembers to address what they say are unique needs in their districts. Some officials support the funding system, while others say the process lacks structure and accountability.

Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor Treviño controls roughly $1.1 million in district priority funds, including this year’s $500,000 allocation and more than $600,000 in rollover money from last year.

Despite not having a district of his own, Dr. Treviño said the money should focus on core city functions. He stated, “I believe th

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