By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The Laguna Vista Community Development Corporation (CDC) and City Manager Victor Treviño are taking steps to create a clearer, more organized process for local businesses seeking city assistance, following a discussion in which local resident Natalie Ruiz pressed for details on how the system would actually work.
During the meeting, CDC members acknowledged many small business owners are uncertain about how to approach the corporation for help. Board members said they have spoken with restaurant and shop operators who are hesitant to apply because they are unsure what qualifies for support and what documentation is required. Some worry they will be asked to provide extensive personal or financial information, while others simply do not know where to begin.
Ruiz’s questions helped move the conversation from general ideas to a concrete plan. She asked whether workshops would be publicly posted, whether individual business owners would be invited, and whether applicants should first contact the city manager. She also raised the idea of separate outreach efforts, one for current Laguna Vista businesses and another for future tenants in upcoming commercial developments.
Her questions prompted Treviño to outline how the city and CDC will coordinate moving forward.
Treviño explained the CDC first needs to organize its internal procedures before outreach begins. Staff and the board will work together to develop clear applications and guidelines, including separate processes for economic development projects and community development projects. Once finalized, business owners will be able to receive consistent direction rather than informal advice.
“We want to be ready,” Treviño said, explaining the goal is to provide applicants a straightforward explanation of the steps required and the paperwork needed.
As part of the plan, Treviño will act as the coordinating point of contact. The CDC will then hold workshops to guide business owners through the application process and explain what types of projects may qualify for assistance.
Board members also discussed developing a shared vision with the Town Council so businesses understand what kinds of commercial growth the community hopes to attract. Potential workshops could include both current business owners and future commercial tenants as new subdivisions and retail spaces are developed.
The CDC is also considering reviewing economic development programs used by nearby cities instead of “reinventing the wheel,” then adapting those frameworks for Laguna Vista.
Members emphasized that CDC funding comes from local sales tax revenue and is intended to be reinvested into the community. Officials said clarifying the process and promoting the programs could help businesses feel more comfortable applying and ultimately increase economic activity, foot traffic and long term growth in Laguna Vista.
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