Student Fee Advisory Committee

(View PDF version of Meeting Minutes)

Attendees: Rosalinda Garcia, Fred Juarez, Dr. Cindy Collier, Christa Elizondo, Adalberto Gonzalez, Jesus “Conrad” Galaviz, Santiago Garcia Rosales

Other Attendees: Trevor Liddle, Denisse Botello, Patricia Ruiz

Student Attendee: David Sosa

Welcome

Ms. Garcia welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced Mr. Trevor Liddle, Associate Vice-President, Office of the President.

Approval of Minutes

Approval of November 4, 2025 Minutes

Ms. Garcia asked if there were any corrections to the minutes. Hearing none, motion to approve made by Mr. Gonzalez, seconded by Mr. Juarez, all in favor voiced “I”. The minutes were approved by unanimous consent.

Discussion of Funds Currently Available in SFAC Account

Ms. Garcia gave an overview of the committee’s suggestions to allocate approximately $23,000 in available SFAC funds for shaded seating in various outdoor locations discussed at the last meeting. Ms. Garcia referenced the survey forwarded to committee members and presented the results of these responses which identified 4 specific areas: 1). Picnic tables near Coward and Bullock buildings; 2). The Student Center (STC) bus stop; 3). The Haynes Softball Field; and 4). Pathway from the Residential Learning Community (RLC) building to STC. Ms. Garcia advised the committee this information was provided to Mr. Liddle prior to today’s meeting, and he was invited to attend today’s session to update the committee on his recommendations and next steps.

Mr. Liddle thanked the committee members for their consideration in allocating available funds for a grounds beautification project and was appreciative of the opportunity to advise the SFAC committee on how best to maximize their investment. Mr. Liddle stated the different options he will present to the committee will require additional thought on the total timeframe, cost, and administrative approvals needed to complete the respective proposed projects.

Mr. Liddle outlined the following proposals:

• Natural Shading: The pathway from the RLC to STC covers a large area which does not have trees for natural shading. However, due to underground water pipes and communication/fiber optic lines in the immediate area, planting trees in this area is not an option.
• Park Environment: The most popular gathering areas on campus have been identified and proposals on various plans to establish a park environment have been drafted by landscape architects which include shaded seating areas and water use areas. These concepts are currently being reviewed.
• Pergolas: Four areas have been identified to consider the option of creating a walkway and placing a pergola in each respective location. The “maroon squares” would be consistent with the pergolas currently located behind the Canseco and Pellegrino buildings and the available SFAC funds would provide for 1 maroon square to be constructed.
• El Metro Bus Stop: As previously mentioned to the committee, this is a City of Laredo owned site.
• Trees and Canopies: Proper tree and canopy management is required to obtain optimum results.

Committee Discussion/Questions

• El Metro Bus Stop: The committee discussed the need for shade at this location, referencing the long lines students form to wait for the bus and having to wait another hour until the next bus transport arrives. Mr. Liddle stated the west side location of the bus stop contributes to the sun facing directly on anyone waiting in line – no matter if you have shade. The committee advised the bus stop is the main concern voiced by students. However, Mr. Liddle advised any renovations to the bus stop requires working with the City which may take more time as opposed to moving forward with the pergolas in “one maroon square”.
• Trees and Canopies: This option will require arrangements for additional resources from contracted services and/or the physical plant staff.
• Pergolas: The committee discussed moving forward with “one maroon square” and proposed locating this pergola sunshade area by the Western Hemisphere Tower or by the University Police Station. These 2 locations were also identified as supporting designated areas for students to be dropped off or picked-up allowing a more streamlined entry/exit process.

Next Steps

• Mr. Liddle advised the committee its consideration of a grounds beautification project is an opportunity to introduce a mindset of representing an institutional custodian and promote the collaboration of all to participate in this project.
• Mr. Liddle stated he would review the requirements for the “one maroon square” project and update the committee as soon as possible.
• Ms. Garcia thanked Mr. Liddle for his time and insight in presenting these beautification options to the committee and asked members to forward any other information on additional suggestions to Mr. Liddle for his consideration of all requests to create more shaded areas as per the students’ request.