Rio Grande City's mayor took the stage Wednesday to deliver the first state of the city address of his term.

Mayor Gilberto Falcon talked about ongoing projects in the city. 

Transportation, infrastructure and new businesses were big topics, as well as advancements in healthcare. 

A new DHR Health campus under construction was highlighted during the address.

The city is also looking out for animals. There is now a dedicated animal cruelty officer who can address the stray and abused animal problem in the city. 

“That investigator will actually be out there investigating any animal cruelty cases,” Rio Grande City Interim Police Chief Jose Solis said.

As the city quickly grows, its water infrastructure has needed help keeping up. 

The city previously said broken water meters left them out thousands of dollars. Mayor Falcon said a project to replace meters has brought back that money 

“The past four months we were able to increase our water revenue by $400,000, Falcon said.

Falcon said the new meters are partially funded through a grant. 

In some neighborhood, Rio Grande City residents aren't connected to the city sewer system. Falcon said the city is working on this issue.

“We're gonna be installing some sewer lines, they're within city lines and they didn't have sewer,” Falcon said. “We think those basic necessities need to be addressed and we've approved that project."

In the next year, Falcon says they'll be focusing on water and transportation infrastructure projects.

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