City Council rejects city manager’s recommendation, selects Miguel Rodriguez as police chief

LAREDO, TX. (KGNS) - The Laredo City Council approved its new Chief of Police Tuesday night.

Five hours into the meeting council selected Miguel Rodriguez to helm the department. However, Rodriguez’s appointment came after the council did not approve the city manager’s first recommendation.

Originally, City Manager Joseph Neeb recommended Andy Harvey to take on the position. Several council members spoke up about their disagreement, many citing they would have preferred a local to take on the role. Ultimately, there were not enough council votes for Neeb’s first recommendation to be named chief.

Neeb then brought forward his second recommendation, Miguel Rodriguez, who is a 24-year veteran of the Laredo Police Department.

Rodriguez received enough votes from the council to be selected.

After several months of being without a permanent police chief, Laredo City Manager has recommended Andy Harvey to fill the position.

The council voted on Neeb’s recommendation and it failed a five to four vote.

Neeb’s second recommendation was Miguel Rodriguez.

Acting Police Chief Steven Landin was appointed by City Manager Joseph Neeb to take charge of the department, following the departure of Claudio Trevino back in February.

Landin said he would remain acting chief until the process has been completed.