The County of Hidalgo Urban County Program (UCP) is disclosing that Felipe & Norma L. Acevedo, who has applied for Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation housing assistance, is cousin of Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres Precinct #4.

As per 24 CFR 92.356(d)(1), the UCP must publicly disclose that Felipe & Norma L. Acevedo are related of Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres Precinct #4.  While applying under the Owner-Occupied Housing Program, Mrs. Acevedo advised the UCP Rehabilitation Assistant that they are related to Commissioner Ellie Torres.  In Compliance with 24 CFR 92.356(d)(2), the UCP requested and received a legal opinion from Mr. Victor Garza, County Attorney.  The legal opinion received stated that the approval of the application for Mrs. Acevedo, would not violate Texas state or local laws.  As a result, the UCP must publicly disclose the abovementioned case before it can request an exception from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.