(KGNS) - Laredo city leaders are questioning whether taxpayer dollars should fund police escorts for officials, while Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino maintains that the protection is necessary for his safety.

Councilmember Melissa Cigarroa sparked the discussion during a city council meeting on Monday, Sept. 21, after seeing four plainclothes officers escorting the mayor between two press conferences.

Cigarroa questioned pulling officers from regular duties while the department faces staffing shortages.