By james art 
LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – It’s been weeks of discussion about whether non-essential city projects should be put on hold to direct money to the utilities department.
On Monday, November 4th, scores of Laredo residents came out in support of the arts and urged the city council not to withdraw from this sector.
Laredoan Danielle Martinez emphasized that focusing on Laredo’s water infrastructure struggles should come first.
Noting, “Art is essential to both emotional and social intelligence, we know that. Our community needs the arts to thrive; but water is necessary for survival, especially in a crisis. So water takes precedence over everything.
Martinez and her daughter, Ximena Luna, explained that they support the arts, but a balance must be struck.
Luna mentioned, “I love art, but I need clean water.”
According to Mayor Pro Temp, Ruben Gutierrez, up to $42 million is currently invested in approved projects, some of which could be moved to the Utilities Department to fund water infrastructure projects.
Gutierrez said he would be willing to put his district’s priority funds into the utilities department.
“Years, decades ago, we pushed this down the line, we pushed this down the road. I think that’s something we need to look at now. Someone mentioned the last meeting “Why now?” Well, if not now, then when? when is the weather I think the time is now,” Gutierrez said.
Gutierrez added that the diverted funds would be immediately put into action.
However, current council members remain divided on whether to adopt the approach.
Gutierrez, Councilman Alberto Torres and Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino have all voiced their support, but others continue to urge caution.
To date, the Goodwill Rebate program has been adopted by council, giving Lareodans $10.13 off their water bill.
The city attorney and management said none of the projects could be stopped because the money was already booked.
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