Socorro approves interlocal cooperation to provide reimbursed public‑works assistance to San Elizario

The Socorro City Council on Oct. 6 approved an interlocal cooperation agreement with the City of San Elizario to provide limited public‑works assistance on a reimbursable, project‑by‑project basis.

City Manager Adriana Rodarte explained the agreement responds to San Elizario’s limited operations budget and staff capacity. Under the agreement, Socorro may supply personnel, equipment and materials for small infrastructure projects — for example street paving or pothole repair — provided San Elizario approves a written scope and cost estimate and reimburses Socorro for actual costs (labor, equipment, materials and fuel).

Rodarte and staff clarified that Socorro’s own public‑works needs take priority and that the arrangement will be used only when resources are available. The agreement will follow the Texas Interlocal Cooperation Act framework. Council members said a public statement explaining the arrangement to residents would be useful so callers understand that Socorro work crews in San Elizario are performing reimbursed work on behalf of that city.

The motion passed with council approval; staff will prepare project‑level cost estimates and agreements as needed.

Clarifying detail: each project requires written cost estimate and formal approval by San Elizario prior to work; Socorro to be reimbursed for actual costs including labor and equipment.