Laredo, Texas – The City of Laredo is proud to announce that its Human Resources Department has been awarded the Human Resources Impact Award of Distinction by the Texas Municipal Human Resources Association (TMHRA). The award, presented on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, during the TMHRA Annual Conference in San Antonio, Texas, recognizes HR departments in cities with populations over 25,000 that demonstrate outstanding leadership and innovation in municipal human resources.

This esteemed recognition celebrates the City of Laredo Human Resources Department for its forward-thinking initiatives that have delivered measurable results and fostered meaningful change within the organization over the past 18 months.

Among the most impactful efforts is “Project Achieve,” a workforce development initiative designed to equip employees at all levels with opportunities to grow, lead, and advance within the organization. The program focuses on:

• Developing a well-trained workforce across all departments;
• Encouraging skill-building for career advancement;
• Preparing employees to become innovative leaders;
• Supporting a succession plan that aligns with the City’s long-term vision.

Through Project Achieve, the department aims to engage at least 50% of the City’s 3,000 employees in professional learning opportunities each fiscal year.

Additionally, the department was honored for “Project Excellence,” a three-part employee recognition effort focused on celebrating the City’s dedicated workforce. This includes:

• The Employee Spotlight, a digital magazine showcasing City staff and their contributions;
• A Years of Service Recognition program launched in October 2023, which celebrates employees on their work anniversaries;
• Public Service Recognition Week, culminating in a Family Night event to honor City employees and their families.

“This award is a reflection of the City of Laredo’s commitment to its greatest asset—our people,” said Joseph Neeb, City Manager of Laredo. “Our Human Resources Department has done an exceptional job implementing programs that support professional development, celebrate employee contributions, and build a culture of excellence across our organization.”

The Texas Municipal Human Resources Association (TMHRA) provides a professional platform for municipal HR professionals across Texas to collaborate, share best practices, and address workforce challenges in local government.

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