CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-R-04
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
FEBRUARY 7, 2000
5:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores called
the meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In Attendance:
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo Agredano, Councilmember, District I
Louis H. Bruni, Councilmember, District II
John C. Galo, Councilmember, District III
Cecilia May Moreno, Councilmember, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Councilmember, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Councilmember, District VI
Mario G. Alvarado, Councilmember, District VII
Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo Mayor Pro Tempore, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary
Larry Dovalina, Acting City Manager
Cindy Collazo, Acting City Manager
Ray Rodriguez, City Attorney
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes of City Council Meeting held
January 03, 2000 and City Council Workshop held January
12, 2000.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni
Cm. Alvarado not present, he joined the meeting at 5:40 p.m.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
a. Proclamation of the month of February as Customer
Service Month.
Mayor Flores proclaimed the month of February as
Customer Service Month to the members of the Laredo
Chamber of Commerce. Representing the Laredo Chamber
of Commerce were John Adams and Ana Maria Tamez.
Invitations
a. Streets of Laredo Mall extends an invitation to the
"Noche de Carnaval, Mardi Gras" to be held on Friday,
February 11, 2000.
Roberto Gonzalez, President of The Streets of Laredo,
formally invited Mayor, the City council members and
the public to attend the "Noche de Carnaval, Mardi
Gras" to be held on February 11, 2000.
He read the following Mission statement for the Streets
of Laredo:
The Mission Statement for the Streets of Laredo is to
preserve and amplify the eclectic atmosphere of the
historic Laredo while developing downtown into a place
to live, work and visit.
The purpose of our organization is to promote tourism,
economic diversification through the revitalization
and beautification of downtown Laredo.
To improve the access through better traffic flows,
and parking to promote improvements, maintenance and
security for all of downtown. To protect and assist
private and public development of downtown Laredo.
To promote and enhance business and economic
opportunities through continuing efforts and actions
of the street of Laredo and others.
Recognitions
a. Recognizing the City of Laredo for winning "The Best
Little Blood Drive on the Border" held on November 2,
1999 by the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, stated
the importance of donating blood during the holiday
season and he introduced Tammy Luis, Supervisor for
South Texas Blood and Tissue Center.
Tammy Luis and Carmen Davila, Community Relations
Department, presented to Lita Vasquez, Risk Department,
an Outstanding Community Service Plaque for her
assistance in the recent blood drive.
Mayor Flores received the "Cup of Life" rotating
trophy for winning the Blood Draw Challenge for 1999.
b. Recognizing the City of Laredo Public Works Department
for being selected by International City / County
Management Association (ICMA) as one of the top 6 in
the nation for it's Landfill Methane Outreach Program.
Mayor Flores congratulated Joe Guerra, Public Works
Director and his staff, for their job of excellence.
Communiques
A. Mayor Flores spoke on the 1999 Accomplishments
reflecting City Council Policy Statements and Goals:
Mayor Flores gave the following statement:
This is indeed an exciting time to live in Laredo,
and most importantly to be a Laredoan. The tremendous
volume of growth in every area of this city is
allowing the City Council through city staff to
provide the citizens of this dynamic community the
best in services and quality of life. The Laredo of
the 21st century will blare in comparison to the Laredo
of years past. What we have accomplished as a
community is a testament to our growth, our vision,
and importance in the global community.
A year ago this City Council conducted a Strategic
Planning Session. With the help of my colleagues on
the City Council, our objective to identify goals and
develop policy statements for a better Laredo was
accomplished. Everything from transportation, public
safety, quality of life, economic development, and
customer service was touched upon. The foundation by
which we developed these policy statements was built
upon three basic philosophical issues:
1. to assist people that do not have access to the
market place;
2. that government should be competitive, innovative
and efficient;
3. and government should be measured by its results.
As we look to the new millennium let us embrace the
hope and challenges that lie ahead, as in the words
of Samuel Johnson, "The future is purchased by the
present."
One hundred years ago the only traffic in Laredo was
horses and wagons on small dirt roads. Today, this
thriving community, the hub of trade with Mexico, has
built state of the art roads and bridges to
accommodate all of the truck traffic related to trade
and at the same time making it safe for Laredoans in
their daily commutes. The new World Trade Bridge,
which is a couple of months from opening, will further
solidify this city's role as the country's number one
inland port of entry and most importantly the country's
front door to the rest of the world.
As we look to the future, our goal of providing
citizens access to desired destinations in a quick,
convenient, safe and comfortable manner, through
projects such as the Calton Road widening, and the
Clark/Hendricks St. Improvement, will be met.
This city council has done much to create a feeling
of security among the citizens and to promote the
safety of the community. This year we have had the
pleasure of opening two more fire stations, stations
ten and eleven, to provide additional fire protection
to residents in District I and VI. This year has
also seen the acquisition of 102 new police cars to
the Police Department's fleet which will make it much
easier for officers to patrol the neighborhoods to
ensure our safety and that of our children. These
new cars will also allow police officers to be readily
available to patrol highways and busy roads making
driving a pleasurable and safe experience for law
abiding citizens.
In the future, Laredoans can rest assured that the
city will continue its effort in providing the best
in public safety with the addition of fire station
twelve, and to make sure that every district have at
least one police substation.
Everywhere across the community, from District I to
District VIII, you find signs of the fast improvement
in the quality of life of all citizens. From the
young to the young at heart everyone is seeing a
dramatic improvement in the quality of life. Last
year we inaugurated the construction for the
restoration of the Hamilton Hotel. When complete
this historic building will be home and a meeting
place for many of Laredo's elderly citizens to enjoy
each others company and camaraderie.
Parks and places to get together with friends and
family is one area that is receiving high priority
from this council In the past year we have
inaugurated or broke ground on a variety of projects
that will begin to satisfy the need for parks. Parks
like the just opened Santa Fe Park in District I, the
Father NcNaboe Park in District VII, and the Zacate
Creek Linear Park in District V are just some examples
of the progress we have made in this area. Also,
tennis players have already been taking advantage of
the improvements made to the Market Street Tennis
Courts, and boxers will soon be enjoying their sport
in the renovated Canizales gym. And this is just the
beginning, in the future we will continue to provide
adequate support to city departments and staff who
provide leisure opportunities.
We have also taken significant steps in the area of
quality of life by initiating discussions for a
Multi-Purpose Center to attract and provide Laredoans
with good, quality, and affordable entertainment.
It has been the goal of this council to make
government responsible to the needs of its constituents.
That is why we are promoting customer service as every
employees responsibility. The City has implemented a
customer service plan to implement as the city's
program to provide excellent customer service. As
part of this program, the city has hired a customer
service coordinator to oversee citizens needs and to
be responsible for timely tracking and solutions to
people complains, problems and suggestions.
All of this can only be possible, if we are able to
give citizens the most basic of necessities - one
being water. We can no longer rely and expect the
Rio Grande to be our only source of drinking water.
In past few months we have begun the process of
searching for an alternative source of drinking water
for the future need of this community.
In the past we have seen and experienced the
unpredictability of the Mother Nature, from floods to
droughts, nature knows no mercy. This is why we have
started the process now, so that in the future we
won't be at the mercy of Mother Nature's unpredictability.
From Mother Nature's droughts and floods to Father
Nature's economic ups and downs, living in Laredo for
the past two-hundred-forty five years has been a
lesson in survivability. We face many challenges
that are unique to Laredo, but it is that uniqueness
that also allows us to experience the benefits and
good fortunes that come with living on the border.
As we embark on the 21st century we can no longer be
separated by our differences, the only way we can
make a difference is by working together. this is a
critical time in the history of this city, there is
too much at stake. Our children who deserve the very
best and brightest future.
End of statement.
B. Councilmember Moreno requested information on the
audit of financial statements. The Original Fund
balance is $1.3 million dollars less and the Sales
Tax Revenue Projections were under reported by 1.6
million dollars.
Mayor Flores directed staff to notify council of the
audit changes in question.
C. Randy Blair, Washington Birthday Celebration
Association Director, expressed his concern in
obtaining a permit allowing the firework display to
be held this week at Life Downs.
Rodolfo Sepulveda, Deputy Chief, stated that he would
assist Mr. Blair in obtaining a permit as soon as
possible to avoid any complications
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
None
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing concerning an application by Alfonso
Arguindegui, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning the south 75 ft. of
Lot 1, the south 75 ft. of the west 49 ft. of Lot 2,
and the north 36.11 ft. of Lots 1 & 2, Block 59, Western
Division, located at 801 and 803 Flores Ave., from
CBD (Central Business District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District). This is an appeal from an
unfavorable recommendation by the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning the south 75 ft. of Lot 1,
the south 75 ft. of the west 49 ft. of Lot 2, and the
north 36.11 ft. of Lots 1 & 2, Block 59, Western
Division, located at 801 and 803 Flores Ave., from CBD
(Central Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Gary Rodriguez from McAllen, representing Marketing
Associates, spoke in favor of a Conditional Use
Permit. He added that a market analysis was recently
performed downtown Laredo and the conclusion was
positive for the merchant and the customer. Jose
Manuel Valdez, representative of the busing company,
spoke on the site improvements and asked for approval
of the zone change.
Ron Whitehawk, representing Norwest Bank, spoke
against the Conditional Use Permit. They believe the
building is too small for the proposed use.
Alfonso Arguindegui, property owner, spoke in favor
of providing the use of a bus charter service for his
location.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a
Conditional Use Permit for a period of five years.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Montalvo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Mayor Pro Tempore Montalvo
2. Public hearing concerning the approval of an
amendment to the contract with the Texas Department
of Health and Budget in the amount of $111,336.00 for
the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
outreach and enrollment assistance activity of the City
of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and Budget in the amount of
$111,336.00 for the Children's Health Insurance
Program (CHIP) outreach and enrollment assistance
activity of the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning January 1, 2000 through December
31, 2000; and increase revenue line item
226-0000-323-4082 from $0 to $111,336.00, and
expenditure line item 226-6022 from $0 to $111,336.00.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
3. Public hearing concerning the approval of an
amendment to the contract with the Texas Department
of Health and Budget in the amount of $100,000.00 to
operate the Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
Program of the City of Laredo Health Department
for the period beginning October 1, 1999 through
September 30, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and Budget in the amount of
$100,000.00 in additional funds for the Women,
Infants and Children (WIC) Program of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
October 1, 1999, through September 30, 2000; and
increasing revenue line item for the WIC Program
226-0000-323-4037 from $2,106,480.00 to $2,206,480.00
and expenditure line item 226-6014 from $2,106,480.00
to $2,206,480.00.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Public hearing concerning the amendment of
the City of Laredo's 1999-2000 annual budget
in the amount of $55,519.00 with the Office
of National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA)
contributing $49,888.00 and the City of Laredo
designating $5,631.00 to fund the Multi-Agency
Major Organization Investigation Task Force
for the period of January 1, 2000 through
December 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's
1999-2000 annual budget in the amount of
$55,519.00 with the Office of National Drug
Control Policy (HIDTA) contributing $49,888.00
and City of Laredo designating $5,631.00 to
fund the Multi-Agency Major Organization
Investigation Task Force for the period of
January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000.
Motion to table indefinitely.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. Public hearing concerning the amendment of
the City of Laredo FY1999-2000 annual budget
in the amount of $770,496.00 to fund the
Multi-Agency Financial Disruption Task Force.
The National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA) High
Intensity Drug Trafficking Area is funding
the operation at no cost to the City. Funds
will be used to pay for personnel salaries,
travel and operational expenses beginning
January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY1999-
2000 annual budget in the amount of $770,496.00
to fund the Multi-Agency Financial Disruption
Task Force. The National Drug Control Policy
(HIDTA) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area
is funding the operation at no cost to the
City. Funds will be used to pay for personnel
salaries, travel and operational expenses
beginning January 1, 2000 through December
31, 2000.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Public hearing concerning the amendment of the
City of Laredo's 1999-2000 annual budget in
the amount of $729,000.00 for the Multi-Agency
Narcotic Task Force. Funding is available
from the opening balance of the Narcotic Task
Force Division and will be used to pay salaries
and overtime from December 1999 through May
2000, and to purchase equipment. Grant period
is from June 1, 1999 through May 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's
1999-2000 annual budget in the amount of
$729,000.00 for the Multi-Agency Narcotic
Task Force. Funding is available from the
opening balance of the Narcotic Task Force
Division and will be used to pay salaries and
overtime from December 1999 through May 2000,
and to purchase equipment. Grant period is
from June 1, 1999 through May 31, 2000.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
7. A. Request by Council Member Cecilia May Moreno
1. Discussion with possible action to conduct the
study for speed humps at the 300 and 400 blocks
of Garden St. leading to the Zacate Creek Park.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, stated that
the Speed Hump Pilot Project will be completed at
the end of February. He will submit his
recommendations to the council at that time.
Mayor Flores asked for a list of all properties
currently being evaluated in the Speed Hump Pilot
Program.
Motion to include the following properties to the
Speed Hump Pilot Program: Block 300 and 400 of
Garden street that leads to Zacate Creek Park and
the 2400 or 2500 Block of Lane.
Moved: Cm. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Status report on the Sidewalk Project for
District IV.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated the Sidewalk
Projects are currently under construction and are
approximately 28 percent complete.
B. Request by Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Status report on the C.O.P.S. Sub-Station
site in District V.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that
the subsurface investigations are being
ordered and he is trying to set up a meeting
with the consultants on the completion of the
plans. He added that all three sub-stations
would be included on the quote.
C. Request by Council Member Joe A. Guerra
1. Discussion by Dr. Hector Farias and Manuel
Menchaca on health and environmental issues.
Dr. Hector Farias, VIDA Chairman, and Manuel
Menchaca, stated that they had already
addressed the council in prior years to no
avail. They submitted the following list:
Problem:
The protections of our water source. The
river is our only source of water. El Cenizo
and Rio Bravo do not have adequate wastewater
collection and treatment. Most of their
waste eventually goes into the river. Nuevo
Laredo is still dumping approximately 7 million
gallons of raw sewerage every day into our
only water source. Warehouses on the Mines
Road are not being inspected adequately to
prevent a hazardous spill from getting into
the river.
Solution:
More inspectors to provide constant surveillance,
investigations and monitoring. Enforcement
powers for inspectors that are backed up by
the courts and the council. Collection and
treatment of the seven million gallons per
day of raw sewerage coming from Nuevo Laredo
by the Army Corps of Engineers or by some
other method. Provide assistance to El Cenizo
and Rio Bravo with their wastewater collection
and treatment.
Problem:
Providing wastewater collection for the Aztecas
residents. There is a major problem with the
wastewater collection lines in the Azteca
neighborhood. This is a massive undertaking
that requires replacement of all the old lines
in that area. This is the reason that it
always smells so horrible of wastewater in
the Azteca neighborhood and sometimes the
downtown area. This horrible smell has plagued
us for a long time. This horrible smell is
one of the things we are not very proud of as
Laredoans.
Solutions:
Replace all those water lines. The cost is
high. We keep putting it off, but the
problem must be resolved. The lines must be
replaced, and it will be expensive. Much of
this waste also winds up going into the river.
Problem:
Getting water and sewer services to inner
city residents. There are about 14 families
living alongside the Chacon Creek just off
Highway 83 south and Chacon Street who, until
recently, did not have electrical service and
whose children were forced to do their homework
before sunset and could not bathe property and
get ready to go to school.
Solution:
The city is obligated to provide them water
and wastewater services immediately. These
basic services must be provided because the
city issued the permits allowing these families
to set up their residence although there was
no service available.
Problem:
Providing water and waste water collection to
colonia residents. The recent legislation
has created the funding for infrastructure
construction for colonia residents. Indications
are that population numbers are increasing in
the colonias. State and federal funding is
available that must be matched by city and
county funds. Our resources must go to providing
colonias with basic utilities.
Problem:
Webb County has the highest death rate due to
diabetes.
Solution:
This deadly disease is killing our people,
our friends and neighbors. This must become
a priority issue with the city council and the
Health Department. Outreach workers must be
trained in nutrition and exercise programs so
that they can visit with people who suffer
from diabetes and get on the road to recovery.
Problem:
Very high rates of tuberculosis
Solution:
We must work closely with our partners from
Mexico in eradicating this disease previously
known as consumption. The number of cases,
especially multi-drug resistant cases, is
increasing. Medications are very expensive
and difficult to take because of their side
effects leading patients to go into hiding
out their medication and thereby, further
spreading the disease.
Problem:
Worst dengue epidemic in recent history.
Solution:
More mosquito monitoring and surveillance is
required year round. More health education
of the public is required. More mosquito
eradication techniques must be explored.
D. Request by Council Member Mario G. Alvarado
1. Status report on Mines Road Task Force
activities and/or recommendations for traffic
control on FM1472, with possible action.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, stated that
the weekly meetings are continuing to discuss
possible closures. He informed the council of
upcoming closures.
2. Request for inventory of Union Pacific rail
crossings that need maintenance up keep, for
review on the meeting of February 22, 2000,
with possible action.
Cm. Alvarado stated that four years ago the
council asked staff to work on an inventory list of
substandard crossings. He was concerned
because there is a dispute between the city
and the rail companies over who is financially
liable for repairs.
Mayor Flores requested that staff to submit
information to the council regarding the rail
crossings. Also, a progress report on the
paving of City right-of-way and Tex-Mex
Railway right-of-way at Guadalupe and Arkansas.
Keith Selman, Planning Director, stated that
the city has had difficulty with the rail
companies at times, in terms of getting some
of the rail crossings fixed and maintained.
He stated that if it were the desire of the
Council, he would put together the requested
inventory and will bring it back for some
type of formal action.
3. Status report on the Santa Maria Ave.
Reconstruction Project with possible action.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that
the project is on schedule and will be
completed in June or July of 2000.
4. Status report on the Lafayette Bridge Relocation
Project with possible action.
Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development
Director, reported they have acquired the
properties and all residents have relocated
with the exception of one. He added that
three houses were contaminated. However,
they were being treated and will be demolished.
Cm. Alvarado requested that for safety reasons,
Community Development needs to expedite the
project.
(Recess)
(Press Availability)
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
8. Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Scheduled Airline Operating Agreement and Terminal
Building Lease with Continental Express for exclusive
and non-exclusive joint use space located at the
Laredo International Airport passenger terminal for
the purpose of conducting commercial air transportation
services. The term of the agreement is for three (3)
years effective July 1, 1998 and ending on June 30,
2001. The monthly rent including landing fees is
capped at $1.50 per enplaned revenue passenger and is
retroactive to July 1, 1998.
Ordinance introduction: Cm. Bruni
9. Rescinding Ordinance No.97-0-011, entitled Industrial
Fire District Designation, methodology for fire
protection costs and contract for Industrial District
Fire Fighting Services.
Ordinance introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Available: http://www.cityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive final reading of ordinances # 2000-O-026,
#2000-O-027, #2000-O-028, #2000-O-029, #2000-O-030,
#2000-O-031, #2000-O-032, #2000-O-033, #2000-O-034
#2000-O-035 and #2000-O-036.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 2000-O-026 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by
authorizing the issuance of a Conditional
Use Permit for a police substation on
Lot 20, Block 5, Sierra Vista Police
Station Plat, located on the north side
of Sierra Vista Blvd. and east of Hwy 83.
(Cm Alfredo Agredano)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-026.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-027 Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a
Special Use Permit for above ground fuel
tanks on Lot 4, Block 1, Laredo
International Airport Manufacturing
Facilities, located at 5513 Thomas Ave.
(Cm Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-027.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-028 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
1.0441 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A",
located east of Bob Bullock Loop and
south of Hwy 59, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential) to R-1A (Single Family
Reduced Area District). (Cm Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-028.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-029 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
2.000 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A",
located east of Bob Bullock Loop and
south of Hwy. 59, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to R-O (Residential/
Office District). (Cm Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-029.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-030 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
5.6740 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A",
located east of Bob Bullock Loop and
south of Clark Blvd., from R-1 (Single
Family Residential District) to B-4
(Highway Commercial District).
(Cm. Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-030.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-031 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing
the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit
for outdoor storage of pallets on Lots 3
and 4, Block 98, Eastern Division,
located at 809 Market St. (City Council)
Diana Montemayor, of 719 Market, conveyed
her disapproval of adopting the above
ordinance.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-031.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Galo
2000-O-032 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
4.7714 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached exhibit "A",
located at the northwest corner of
Springfield Ave. and Calle Del Norte Rd.,
from B-3 (Community Business District)
to B-4 (Highway Commercial District).
(Cm Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to Ordinance # 2000-O-032.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-033 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
Lots 1-A and 1-B, Block 3, G&M Apartment
and Townhouse Project, Del Mar Hills,
located at the southeast corner of Del
Mar Blvd. and Village Blvd., from R-2
(Multi-Family Residential District) to
R-O (Residential/Office District).
(Cm. Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to adopt # 2000-O-033.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-034 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
(Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
566.409 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A",
located east of the intersection of FM
1472 and FM 3338, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District).
(Cm. Mario G. Alvarado)
Motion to adopt # 2000-O-034.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-035 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo
fiscal year 2000 Solid Waste Management
Fund Annual Budget by appropriating
capital lease proceeds in the amount of
$899,856.00 for the lease purchase of
eight (8) garbage trucks for the Sanitation
Division. (City Council)
Motion to table Ordinance # 2000-O-035.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-036 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager
to execute a lease with the Washington's
Birthday Celebration Association, Inc.
(WBCA) for approximately one (1.0) acre
of land located on the north end of the
Air Operations Area of the Laredo
International Airport for the purpose of
hosting the Air Show 2000. Lease term is
for one (1) day commencing on February
20, 2000. Rental obligation will be $1.00
because this event is free to the public.
This event complements the rest of the
activities celebrated by the WBCA.
(Cm Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-036.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
11. 2000-R-014 Accepting a grant from the Texas
Department of Health in the amount of
$111,336.00 for the Children's Health
Insurance Program (CHIP) outreach and
enrollment assistance activity of the
City of Laredo Health Department for the
period beginning January 1, 2000 through
December 31, 2000.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-014.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 2000-R-016 Authorizing the City Manager to enter
into and execute an Interlocal Cooperation
Agreement between the City of Laredo and
the County of Webb for the provision of
Fire Protection, Emergency, Medical and
Rescue Services for all unincorporated
areas of the County of Webb, Texas, lying
outside the incorporated limits of the
City of Laredo.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-016.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 2000-R-018 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a
grant from (HDTA) High Intensity Drug
Trafficking Agency in the amount of
$770,496.00 to fund the Multi-Agency
Financial Disruption Task Force. The
National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA)
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Agency
is funding the operation at no cost to
the City. Funds will be used to pay for
personnel salaries, travel and operation
expenses beginning January 1, 2000
through December 31, 2000.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-018
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 2000-R-019 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a
grant from the Office of National Drug
Control Policy (HIDTA) in the amount of
$49,888.00, with the City of Laredo
designating $5,631.00 for a total of
$55,519.00 to fund the Multi-Agency
Major Organization Investigation Task
Force for the period of January 1, 2000
through December 31, 2000.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-019.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
15. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve change Order No. 1 for an amount not to
exceed $49,365.57 to the B. W. Zimmerman & Associates
contract for an outstanding debt to the original B.W.
Zimmerman & Associates contract to perform additional
work necessary to insure complete installation of the
total system upgrade. The total cost for this
additional work which has yet to be paid is $49,365.57.
This change will bring the total present contract
amount to $299,360.57. Funding is available in bridge
construction fund account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
an abatement contract to the Low Bidder, Bexar
Environmental, Inc., of San Antonio, Texas, in an
amount not to exceed $56,900.00 to remove and
dispose of asbestos containing materials from
buildings No. 574, No. 1112, No. 1448 and No. 1439
located at the Laredo International Airport. Upon
completion of the abatement work the subject buildings
will be demolished. A total of three (3) bids were
received. Funding is available in the FY 1999-2000
Airport Fund Operating Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to select
a consultant and enter into negotiations for the
Comprehensive Mobility Plan for Laredo, TX. The
consultant recommended for selection is Wilbur Smith
Associates. The study will identify the location and
impact of rail vehicle conflicts, as well as identify
and analyze capital improvement alternatives. Funding
for the project is available through the Metropolitan
Planning Organization (MPO) account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
a contract to Competitive Government Strategies in
an amount not to exceed $29,000.00 for the preparation
of Request for Proposal documents to investigate the
potential privatization of the Utilities Department.
Funding is available from line item (Privatization
RFP) by transferring $29,000.00 from line item
(Reserve Appropriation) to the Privatization RFP
line item.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cm. Moreno Mayor Pro Tempore Montalvo
19. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
a contract to Camp Dresser & McKee Inc., San Antonio,
Texas for an amount not to exceed $49,800.00 to
perform a feasibility study at the Zacate Wastewater
Treatment Plant. The scope of services includes the
identification and qualification of odor and
corrosion sources, exploration of process control to
reduce the corrosion in the plant, exploration of
odor control technologies to handle air streams, and
a recommendation for capital improvements. Funding
is available in the Zacate Creek Wastewater Treatment
Plant Corrosion Control Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to refund
property taxes to the following taxpayers and companies:
a. The Laredo National Bank in the amount of $1,459.13
due to an overpayment.
b. Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation in the amount
of $890.51. Payment was made on an incorrect amount.
c. Carlos Contreras in the amount of $510.53 due to
an overpayment.
d. Evelyn Maria Morales Cruz & Miguel A. Figueroa
in the amount of $1,222.56 due to an overpayment.
These refunds will be paid from line Item Deferred
Revenue/Unapplied Payments.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
a construction contract to the lowest bidder Pete
Gallegos Paving Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of
$757,770.00 for the 16" Waterline Extension on Hwy
359. Funding is available in the Line Extensions
Fund from the 1999 Bond Issues Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
contract number FY00-0048, to the LOW BIDDER MEETING
SPECIFICATIONS, Rush Truck Center, Laredo, Texas, in
the principal amount of $899,856.00, for the lease
purchase of eight refuse trucks and authorizing the
City Manager to execute the necessary lease purchase
documents. These trucks will be leased purchased by
the Solid Waste Management Fund on a three year lease
purchase contract. Delivery of these trucks is
expected within one hundred and eighty days. Financing
will be provided by The Associates, Dallas, Texas,
Solid Waste Management Fund Account with an annual
percentage rate of 5.88%.
Motion to table for February 22, 2000.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
purchase ten lane barrier gates, in the amount of
$42,220.00, from the SOLE PROVIDER, Magnetic
Automation Corp., Rockledge, Florida. Eight gates
will be installed at the World Trade Bridge and two
will be installed at the Colombia Bridge. These are
designed to work in conjunction with the toll
equipment being installed. Funding for this project
has been allocated in the Bridge Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
purchase twelve (12) portable radios for the Police
Department through the Houston Galveston Area Council
of Governments (HGAC) - Cooperative Purchasing
Program, in the principal amount of $39,222.48.
These voice secure digital radios will be purchased
through the cooperative purchasing contract vendor
Motorola. Delivery of these radios is expected
within sixty days. These radios will be purchased
using the Police Department - Auto Theft Task Force
Grant Funding Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
an annual service contract #00-055, to Castaneda
Sand and Gravel, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated
amount of $51,000.00, for providing hauling services
for the Utilities Department. The contract vendor
will be hauling approximately 1,000 cubic yards of
dry sludge per month from the Water Treatment Plant
to the City Landfill. Castaneda's Sand and Gravel
maintains all the required registrations from TNRCC
and the City of Laredo. Funding is available from
Utilities Department - Water Treatment Division Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
contract # 00-57, for the re-plastering/fiber glassing
of the Thomas swimming pool, to the LOW BIDDER, Rainbo
Resurfacing Inc., Chicago, Ill., in the amount of
$78,500.00, for fiberglass resurfacing and installation
of Kool Decking. $75,000.00 has been allocated in
the capital improvement budget. A budget transfer of
$3,500.00 will be prepared from the Parks Department
operation budget to secure the additional funds
needed to award this contract.
Border Pools, Laredo, Texas, did submit a lower bid
for this work, however, this vendor did not submit
the required bid bond with the bid package and
therefore is not being considered for an award of contract.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
contract # 00-056 to the LOW BIDDER, Quest, Walsenburg,
CO., in the amount of $60,835.20, for the purchase
of protective clothing (bunker gear) for the Fire
Department. The clothing includes fifty protective
suits for conventional fire fighting situations and
ten aluminized suits for the use in aviation type
fires. The proposed gear meets all the standards
of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Funding is available in the Fire Department Operations
Budget, Capital Outlay Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
28. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
contract number FY00-58, to the LOW BIDDER, Leslies
Swimming Pool Supplies, Chatsworth, CA., in the
estimated amount of $27,317.25 for the purchase of
trichlor tablets needed for the chlorination process
for all the City's swimming pools. The bid pricing
is approximately 3% less than the previous contract
pricing. Funding is available from the Parks
Department - Chemicals Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Award of six month supply contracts (#00-038) for the
purchase of safety footwear for city maintenance
personnel, to the following vendors:
a. Iron Age Corp., $19,225.00
San Antonio, Texas
(three safety footwear styles)
b. Gateway Uniform Service, $13,797.50
Laredo, Texas
(two safety footwear styles)
c. Lehigh Safety Shoe Co., $12,597.50
San Antonio, Texas
(three safety footwear styles)
d. Skaggs Co. Inc., $ 6,329.00
San Antonio, Texas
(one safety footwear style)
Contract pricing has been secured for boot styles
approved for use by the Fire Department personnel
and different styles for city maintenance personnel.
Each department will have the option to choose the
type of boot best suited for the work environment
and budget allocation. All safety footwear is
purchased on an as needed basis.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to ratify
a professional services contract to Raba-Kistner
Consultants, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, for an amount
not to exceed $66,369.00 to provide laboratory,
sampling and testing services of materials for quality
control for the Reconstruction of Portions of Taxiways
"A", "F", and "G" Laredo International Airport AIP
Project No. 3-48-0136-22 and Reconstruction of Portion
of Southwest Cargo Apron to include new construction
of a new section of air cargo apron at the Laredo
International Airport AIP Project No. 3-48-0136-23.
Funding is available in the Airport Budget Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
a professional services contract to Trinity Testing
Laboratories Inc., Laredo, Texas, for an amount not
to exceed $72,860.00 to provide laboratory, sampling
and testing services of materials for quality control
during the construction of the South Laredo Wastewater
Interceptor from South Laredo Wastewater Treatment
to U.S. Hwy 59. Funding is available in the Wastewater
System 94 Bond Chacon Creek Interceptor Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve the construction plans and authorization to
advertise for bids for the 1999-2000 Street Recycling
Project (175 Blocks). Funding is available in the
Capital Improvement Fund Street Material/Cutler
Repaving Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
a contract # FY00-064, to the SOLE BIDDER, Austec
Services, Olney, Texas, in the amount of $201,764.00,
for the provision of a fiber optic network to provide
voice, data, and video communication service from
Bridge 3 (Colombia) to Fire Station 9 located on the
Mines Road. The City, under a separate contract,
has provisioned a fiber optic network from Fire Station
9 to the World Trade Bridge. This network will
provide the path of communication for the Toll System
being implemented at all four bridge locations and al
low integration of these sites to the City's
Institutional Network (I-Net). The funding for this
project has been allocated in the Bridge Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter
into and execute a right-of-entry agreement with the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the purpose of
testing soils at Robert Muller Park as part of the
City of Laredo's Environmental Protection Agency
Site Investigation Brownfields Program. The site
investigations are being funded through the
Environmental Protection Agency (Superfund) and
charged against the EPA Brownsfield Grant.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to accept
the Martingale Drainage Improvements from Village
Boulevard to Martingale as complete. The project
consisted of approximately 150 linear feet concrete
channelization designed and constructed by In-House
forces. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvements Projects Creek Concrete Pilot Channel.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve Amendment No. 3 an increase of $26,068.98
for additional engineering services to the Santa
Maria Reconstruction Project engineering contract
with G.G. Salinas Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas,
to provide the design for the construction of a 12"
thick non-reinforced fast track paving section in
lieu of the asphalt paving over asphalt stabilized
base section for the intersections of Mann Road and
Industrial Blvd. at Santa Maria Avenue. Funding is
available in the 1998 CO Issue Santa Maria Reconstruction.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Guerra
37. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve change order no. 3 a net increase of
$133,735.25 to the Santa Maria Reconstruction Project
with Pete Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for
additional construction work to include the concrete
paving at the Mann Road Intersection and Industrial
Blvd. Intersection with a 12" thick non-reinforced
fast track paving section in lieu of the asphalt
paving over asphalt stabilized base section. Funding
is available in the 1998 CO Issue Santa Maria
Reconstruction.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to submit
request for proposals (RFP) for the Gateway to the
Americas Bridge (Bridge I) Access, Export Lot, and
Parking Modifications. Funding is available in the
Bridge System Toll Plaza Improvements.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to submit
a proposal for a loan of $500,000.00 to the Environmental
Protection Agency's Brownfields Cleanup Revolving
Loan Fund (BCRLF) Pilot Program to provide funds to
make loans to public and private parties to facilitate
the cleanup and redevelopment of Brownfields properties.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
reschedule the regular City Council meeting from
Monday, February 21, 2000 to Tuesday, February 22,
2000, in observation of President's Day.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve Amendment No. 1 to extend the contract with
Brown & Root, Inc., until April 7, 2000 to complete
the Storm Water Management Master Plan for the Zacate
Creek Watershed. Due to delay in collection of data
processing of the Digital Terrain Model and completion
of the survey, the consultant requested the additional
time.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve Amendment No. 2 for the "Chacon Creek Flood
Protection Plan" engineering contract with Brown &
Root, Inc., Houston, Texas to extend the contract
time to March 20, 2000 to complete the work described
in the contract.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve change Order No. 1 to the contract with III
PG Enterprises for an additional 60 calendar day
extension to the contract. This contract is for the
demolition for the building located on 2518 Cedar.
There will be no financial impact.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORT
44. Discussion on the progress made towards the selection
of a partner for the development of a secondary
source of water, with possible action.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, gave a summary of
what was presented at the Water Issues Committee on
February 2, 2000. He stated that all five applicants
meet the city's requirements. He added there would
be a final meeting in order to allow the companies to
further develop their ideas and answer any pending
questions.
Cm. Bruni requested that the current City Council
shall make the final decision in choosing a second
water source for Laredo.
XIV. RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as Laredo
Municipal Housing Corporation.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
45. 2000-RMH-001 Approval from the Laredo Municipal
Housing Corporation (LMHC) Board of
Directors to implement new rental rates
on four (4) vacant rental units at the
Jose A. Flores Apartments as
recommended by the LMHC Ad Hoc
Committee, effective February 8, 2000.
The proposed rental rates for these
four (4) rental units are as follows:
$388.00 for a 2-bedroom, $485.00 for a
3-bedroom and $546.00 for a 4-bedroom.
The proposed rental rates are calculated
at 80% of fair market rents.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
46. 2000-RMH-002 Approval from the Laredo Municipal
Housing Corporation (LMHC) Board of
Directors to implement new tenant
security deposits at the Jose A. Flores
Apartments as recommended by the LMHC
Ad Hoc Committee. The proposed tenant
security deposits will be equivalent
to one (1) month's rent for new and
renewed dwelling leases executed after
February 8, 2000. New tenants will be
allowed to pay $200.00 upon executing
the dwelling lease and the balance to
be paid in four equal payments during
the next four months. The proposed
tenant security deposits are being
recommended to be increased as an
incentive for tenants to take better
care of their rental units and for
LMHC to be able to cover some of the
costs incurred to repair and clean
rental units when they are vacated.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to recess as Laredo Municipal Housing and
reconvene as the City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. EXECUTIVE SESSION
47. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code Section 551.071(1)(A)(B) to discuss
settlement offer for pending litigation regarding
the City of Laredo vs. Laredo Distribution Center,
Inc., a Texas Corporation, Cause No.99CVQ00005-C1,
and return to open session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to
Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (1) (A) (B) to
discuss settlement offer for pending litigation
regarding the City of Laredo vs. Laredo Distribution
Center, Inc., a Texas Corporation, Cause No. 99CVQ00005-
C1, and return to open session for possible action .
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Flores announced that
no formal action was taken.
Motion authorizing the acceptance of the terms of the
settlement agreement offer and authorizing final
payment for the purchase of 38.5933 acres of land at
$33,000.00 per acre, for a total purchase price of one
million, eighty thousand, five-hundred twenty and no
dollars ($1,080,520.00), as acquired by eminent
domain proceedings in Cause Number 99-CQQ-00005-C1,
styled City of Laredo vs. Laredo Distribution Center,
in the County Court at Law No. 2, Webb County, Texas
for the construction of the World Trade Bridge.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Due to a mathematical error, the final settlement was
changed from $1,080,520.00 to $1,273,578.90.
48. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code Section 551.072 in regards to
deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value
of real property for a parcel being considered for
acquisition to construct a park in the Zacate Creek
area, because deliberation in an open meeting would
have a detrimental effect on the position of the
governmental body in negotiations with a third person;
and return to Open Session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code Section 551.072 in regards to
deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value
of real property for a parcel being considered for
acquisition to construct a park in the Zacate Creek
area, because deliberation in an open meeting would
have a detrimental effect on the position of the
governmental body in negotiations with a third person;
and return to Open Session for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion authorizing the purchase of block number 486,
and block number 487, situated in the Western Division,
of the City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas and
authorizing payment for the purchase of said land in
the total amount of two hundred thousand dollars
($200,000.00) for the Zacate Creek Lenier Park Project
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code Section 551.071 (1)(A)(B) to discuss
contemplated litigation and settlement offer
regarding the City of San Benito vs. PG & E Gas
Transmission, Texas Corporation et al.; Cause No.
96-12-7404-A; in the 107th Judicial District Court
of Cameron County, Texas, and return to open session
for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code Section 551.071 (1) (A) (B) to
discuss contemplated litigation and settlement offer
regarding the City of San Benito vs. PG & E Gas
Transmission, Texas Corporation et al.; Cause No.
96-12-7404-Al in the 107th Judicial District Court
of Cameron County, Texas, and return to open session
for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion authorizing the acceptance of the terms of the
settlement agreement offer and electing to opt in and
participate and remain a member of the plaintiff
class as certified in Cause Number 96-12-7404-A,
styled City of San Benito Et., Al., V. P. G. & E.
Gas Transmission Company, Inc., a Texas Corporation,
in the 107th District Court of Cameron County, Texas.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Guerra
XVII. ADJOURNMENT Time: 9:00 p.m.
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 28
are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council
Meeting held on the 7th day of February.
_________________________
Gustavo Guevara, Jr.
City Secretary