Discussion and possible action to adopt a policy and resolution in support of fair housing, to proclaim April 2026 as Fair Housing Month, and April 20th - 24th as Fair Housing Week, and to authorize the Webb County Judge to sign all relevant documents; and any other matters thereto.

Issue: It is a federal requirement that Webb County adopt the Fair Housing Policy within its jurisdiction in order to continue to be eligible to apply for grants.
 
Solution: Request authorization to adopt fair housing policies as well as to inform the citizens of Webb County of their legal rights in regard to fair housing and non-discrimination initiatives.
 
Result: The federal requirement for fair housing will be met by promoting these efforts by Webb County within its jurisdiction.

In 1968, the Civil Rights Act made housing discrimination illegal.  Specifically, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Fair Housing Act into law and thus prohibited housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin on April 11, 1968. In 1988, the Fair Housing Amendments Act expanded to include protection for persons with disabilities and families with children. The month of April was declared National Fair Housing Month in 1995 to raise awareness and strengthen the enforcement of fair housing laws.

Every year the Webb County Commissioner’s Court approves a resolution proclaiming April as Fair Housing Month.  Webb County also advertises in the Laredo Morning Times to promote fair housing practices and provides a civil rights notice. The County encourages potential homeowners and renters to be aware of their rights. Posters are displayed at the Webb County Courthouse during Fair Housing Month and literature is available to the public in English and Spanish.