CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-R-006
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
FEBRUARY 28, 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
Cecilia May Moreno, Councilmember, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Councilmember, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Councilmember, District VI
Mario G. Alvarado, Councilmember, District VII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary
Larry Dovalina, Acting City Manager
Cindy Collazo, Acting City Manager
Jaime Flores, City Attorney
Motion to excuse Cm. John Galo and Mayor Pro Tempore
Consuelo Montalvo.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. MINUTES
None
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
Cm. Valdez introduced Mr. Luis Diaz De Leon, spokesperson
for "Coahuitecans de Laredo", who informed the council of
a new event that offers entertainment which includes
culture and history of Laredo. He invited the Mayor, the
Council and the public to attend the upcoming festivity
that will be held at the Dos Laredo's Park.
Invitations
Mayor Flores discussed an invitation she had received from
the Honorable John David France, Mayor for the City of
Hidalgo. The invitation was to attend a press conference
announcing the opening of a new hockey arena that seats
3,500 people. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, March
1, at the Hidalgo City Hall.
Cm. Alvarado invited the public to attend the Laredo
International Fair Exhibition at LIFE Downs.
Recognitions
a. Recognition by the Mayor and City Council Members of
employees that retired from the City of Laredo with
20 years or more of service for the period of January,
2000 thru February, 2000.
Mayor Flores recognized employees that retired from the
City of Laredo with more than twenty years or more of
service.
Recognized was Isaac Moncada an employee of twenty years
at the City Health Department. Arturo Gomez an employee
of twenty-two years in the Public Works Department.
Tomasita C. Garza an employee of twenty-four years in the
Police Department. Lucy Limon an employee of twenty years
in the Finance Department.
Not present were Jesusita De Leza and Luis Rendon. Jesusita
De Leza was employed thirty-four years with the Utilities
Department and Luis Rendon was employed twenty-five years
with the Utilities Department.
Communiqués
None
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
None
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing to amend Section 24.63.2 of the Laredo
Land Development Code allowing for the location of
bed and breakfasts within certain zoning districts;
amending Section 24.78(p)(2) of the Laredo Land
Development Code pertaining to "Off-Street Parking and
Loading Requirements" for Commercial Use; amending
Appendix A of the Laredo Land Development Code; and
providing for publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
An ordinance amending Section 24.63.2 of the Laredo
Land Development Code allowing for the location of bed
and breakfasts within certain zoning districts;
amending Section 24.78(p)(2) of the Laredo Land
Development Code pertaining to "Off-Street Parking and
Loading Requirements" for Commercial Use; amending
Appendix A of the Laredo Land Development Code; and
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
2. Public hearing to amend provisions of the Laredo Land
Development Code specifically Section 24.73 pertaining
to oil and gas extraction and production specific use
zoning overlay district and permit requirements;
Section 24.63 pertaining to permitted uses; Section
24.77.2 pertaining to dimensional standards
supplementary provisions; and amending Appendix "A";
providing for publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending provisions of the Laredo Land Development
Code specifically Section 24.73 pertaining to oil and
gas extraction and production specific use zoning
overlay district and permit requirements; Section
24.63 pertaining to permitted uses; Section 24.77.2
pertaining to dimensional standards supplementary
provisions; and amending Appendix "A"; providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Cm. Bruni directed staff to send a copy of the above
ordinance, in its entirety, to all oil companies with a
vested interest.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
3. Public hearing concerning an application by San Isidro
Monarch, Ltd., amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 5.00 acres as further
described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A"
located east of McPherson Rd. and south of Bob Bullock
Loop, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community
Business District). The Planning & Zoning Commission
recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 5.00 acres as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A" located east
of McPherson Rd. and south of Bob Bullock Loop, from
AG (Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community Business
District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Public hearing concerning an application by Eduardo
Gallegos, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 5 and 6, Block 541,
Eastern Division located at 919 Kearney St., from R-3
(Mixed Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family
Residential District). The Planning & Zoning
Commission recommended approval of the proposed zone
change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lots 5 and 6, Block 541, Eastern
Division located at 919 Kearney St., from R-3 (Mixed
Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential
District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Moreno
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Moreno
5. Public hearing concerning an application by Manuel and
Anna Torres, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 8.65 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A",
located at the southwest corner of F.M.1472 and El
Pico Rd., from AG (Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District). The Planning & Zoning
Commission recommended approval of the proposed zone
change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 8.65 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A", located at
the southwest corner of F.M. 1472 and El Pico Rd.,
from AG (Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District); providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Manuel Torres, voiced his
support for the ordinance.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Alvarado
6. Public hearing concerning an application by Jesus Luis
de Leon, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 9, Block 351, Eastern
Division, located at 114 West Lyon St., from B-1
(Limited Business District) to B-3 (Community Business
District). The Planning & Zoning Commission
recommended denial of the proposed zone change. This
is an appeal from an unfavorable recommendation by the
Planning and Zoning Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 9, Block 351, Eastern Division,
located at 114 West Lyon St., from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to B-3 (Community Business District);
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Jesus Luis De Leon, property owner, requested the zone
change for a used car lot.
Motion to close the public hearing and to table.
Moved: Cm. Moreno
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. Public hearing concerning an application by San Isidro
Monarch, Ltd., amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 8.00 acres as further
described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A"
located east of McPherson Rd. and south of Bob Bullock
Loop, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community
Business District). The Planning & Zoning Commission
recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 8.00 acres as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A" located east
of McPherson Rd. and south of Bob Bullock Loop, from
AG (Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community Business
District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
8. Public hearing concerning an application by Jorge
Enrique Brizuela, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map)
of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 5, Block 927,
Western Division, located at 3616 Santa Maria Ave.,
from B-1 (Limited Business District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District). The Planning & Zoning Commission
has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
This is an appeal from an unfavorable recommendation
by the Planning & Zoning Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 5, Block 927, Western Division,
located at 3616 Santa Maria Ave., from B-1 (Limited
Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District);
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Jorge Enrique Brizuela, property owner, requested the zone
change for a mechanic/auto body and paint shop and
residence.
Motion to close the public hearing and table for March 6th.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. Public hearing to amend the City of Laredo's 1999-2000
annual budget in the amount of $484,250.00 to purchase
equipment for the Financial Disruption Task Force.
Funding is available from the opening balance of the
Financial Task Force. The National Drug Control Policy
(HIDTA) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area is funding
the operation at no cost to the City. The grant
period is from January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's 1999-2000 annual budget
in the amount of $484,250.00 to purchase equipment for
the Financial Disruption Task Force. Funding is
available from the opening balance of the Financial
Task Force. The National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA)
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area is funding the
operation at no cost to the City. The grant period is
from January 1, 2000 through December 31, 2000.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Public hearing to amend the City of Laredo FY
1999-2000 Contractual Obligations Fund, Solid Waste
Fund, General Fund and Police Trust Fund annual budget
by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the
amount of $2,135,000.00 from a proposed Public
Property Finance Contractual Obligation (PPFCO) Issue.
This bond issue will be used to finance the
acquisition of automotive equipment and machinery and
equipment for various City departments.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Contractual
Obligations Fund, Solid Waste Fund, General Fund and
Police Trust Fund annual budget by appropriating
revenues and expenditures in the amount of
$2,135,000.00 from a proposed Public Property Finance
Contractual Obligation (PPFCO) Issue. This bond
issue will be used to finance the acquisition of
automotive equipment and machinery and equipment for
various City departments.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce with
corrections as follows:
Amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Contractual
Services Fund and Solid Waste Annual Budget by
appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of
$2,135,000 from a proposed Public Property Finance
Contractual Obligation to finance the acquisition of
automotive equipment and machinery and equipment for
various city departments.
Moved: Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
11. A. Request by Council Member John C. Galo
1. Request for staff to study of corner of
Malinche and Gustavus for possible
signalization or controls to prevent accidents.
Table for the March 6, 2000 meeting.
2. Discussion on maintenance and prevention of
grass growth on City curbs with possible
action.
Table for the March 6, 2000 meeting.
B. Request by Council Member Mario G. Alvarado
1. Status report on the CPL Road design contract
with possible action.
Eddie D. Garza, President of Crane Engineering
Corporation, presented the following Status Report:
Engineering Contract Approved by City Council 1/3/2000
Notice to Proceed 1/4/2000
Work Completed to Date:
1. Conducted deed research for properties along proposed .
route. Acquired deeds and plats of property within
project limits.
NOTE: 95% of project area is not platted requiring the
recreation of deeds in the field to ensure property
boundaries comply with deed documents.
2. Acquired right of way map from Union Pacific Railroad.
U.P.R.R. Contact: Mr. Dan Leis
Union Pacific Railroad Company
Real Estate Department
1800 Farnam Street
Omaha, Nebraska 68102
3. Acquired Gas Line information from Reliant Energy
(Formally Entex) identifying location of gas lines
within project limits.
4. Met with CPL Power Plant Manager, Jaime Gomez, P. E.
to coordinate project & secure authorization to enter
CPL property as required.
5. Met with Charlie Gutierrez, land owner representative
along Mines Road to coordinate project.
6. Met with Steve Lamantia of Budweiser to coordinate
project and discuss the need to relocate a portion of
his building to accommodate the proposed 70' right of
way.
7. Currently completing topographic survey of proposed
route from Industrial Blvd. to Mines Road; topographic
field work is 98% complete and consists of the
following information:
*Fences *Railroad *Creeks
*Buildings *High Pressure *Major Grade Drops
*Utilities *Street
8. Currently completing recreation of boundary surveys
for CPL and Budweiser property. Field work is 98%
complete. Land area for these two (2) tracts exceed
125 acres.
9. Prepared preliminary topographic, boundary and right
of way map. (See attached Plan)
10. Met with City Managers and City Engineer to provide
update and receive direction.
Status Report
11. Met with CP&L electrical engineers to discuss power
line relocation possibilities and existing electrical
manhole within proposed 70' right of way.
12. Met with TxDoT area engineer, Mr. Carlos Rodriguez,
P. E., to coordinate project, secure ROW maps, and
discuss possible connections to Mines Road. He advised
of a proposed overpass and or underpass currently
being planed to provide grade separation from FM 1472
to IH 35.
13. Spoke with Mr. Fitzgerald Sanchez, P. E. and Ms. Joann
Garcia of TxDoT District Office to discuss proposed
overpass and or underpass to identify project limits.
Work Plan for Next 20 Working Days:
* Establish final road alignment and secure approval from
City;
* Complete topographic & boundary surveys for Budweiser &
Mines Rd. area;
* Complete all right of way acquisition surveys;
* Stake centerline of proposed Right of Way;
* Conduct Phase 1 Site Assessment;
* Conduct Geo-technical investigation;
* Prepare preliminary street layout and update cost estimate.
Project Concerns:
* Existing earthen excavation at several locations within
CPL property will impact project construction budget
unless site is restored to previous conditions.
* Texas Department of Transportation recognizes connections
into Mines Road at original study location. Freedom to
explore other options practically eliminated.
* Original location of Mines Road connection adjacent to
Manadas Creek Bridge will not allow for construction of
deceleration lane without widening of bridge. Not in
this budget.
* Portion of Budweiser building along Central Power and
Light Road and material yard temporary office along Mines
Road will require relocation.
City of Laredo CP& L Road Project
Property Owners affected by Proposed Right of Way
Tract Area (SF) Area (AC) Owner
1 10,117 0.2323 Coca-Cola
2 6,333 0.1454 Budweiser
3 2,713 0.0623 CP& L
4 4,327 0.0993 Budweiser
5 40,362 0.9266 Dedicated Public Road
by Deed
6 166,093 3.813 CP & L
7 39,375 0.9039 Superior Mobile Homes
& Guadalupe S. Gutierrez
2. Status report on the maintenance inventory of
Union Pacific Rail Crossing with possible
action.
Keith Selman submitted the following letter:
Subject: Status report on the condition of
pavement along rail lines owned by
the Union Pacific Railroad Company.
A team was assembled to conduct site surveys and
analyze the conditions of the pavement and planks
along crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad
Company. The attached report details the findings
of the survey by crossing.
Preliminary costs estimates for re-pavement of
crossings (Union Pacific only):
Zaragoza to Sanchez 29,540
Park to Madison 16,067
Lafayette to Chicago 4,160
Markley to Mann 21,358
Industrial to Uni-royal 10,956
$82,081
From Zaragoza to Sanchez
Crossing Pvmt. Improvements Needed (notes) Prel. Cost Est.
Status
Zaragoza 6 Re-pavement recommended $6,551
Zaragoza 5 Re-pavement recommended $7,431
Hidalgo Closed
Hidalgo 3 Re-pavement recommended/ $ 871
no planking visible
Washington Dead end sign required
under bridge
Sta. Isabel 4 Re-pavement recommn. $3,900
Gate arms recomm.
May be along Tex-Mex line
Scott 8 Arms being installed/Wood
planning OK
Sta. Isabel 4 Where RG splits from main $4,880
line/no planking
visible/re-pavement recomm.
Sta. Isabel 5 May be on Tex-Mex line/ $3,667
not in use (ends)Link
between ML and Tex-Mex
Garza 3 Sign blocked by trees/no $1,200
planks
Sanchez 7 Gate arms funded/no planks
Sanchez 5 Wood planks-fair $1,040
Total (Zaragoza-Sanchez) 29,540
From Park to Madison
Crossing Pvmt. Improvements Needed (notes) Prel. Cost Est.
Status
Park 4 Re-planking required (wood) $2,400
Bruni 7 Planks need minor repairs
Gonzalez 8 Re-planking required (wood)
Shea 4 Re-planking recommended $1,240
Jefferson 6 No planks $3,911
446795B & 446796H are in
close proximity
Jefferson 2 Re-planking required $3,556
Frankfort 2 Planks-fair $2,400
Blair 8 1 sign down
Madison 5 1 sign missing/planks $2,560
on one-poor
Total (Park-Madison) $16,067
From Lafayette to Chicago
Crossing Pvmt. Improvements Needed (notes) Prel. Cost Est.
Status
Lafayette 7 Wood planks - fair
Baltimore 8 Wood planks - fair
Baltimore 5 Wood planks - fair $1,440
Pierce 8 Wood planks - fair
Boston 7 Wood planks - fair
Philadelphia 7 Wood planks - fair
Ugarte 8 Wood planks - fair
Pace 6 Wood planks - fair $1,160
Chicago 7 Extremely steep/wood
planks - fair
Chicago 4 Re-planking required/ $1,560
being redesigned
Total (Lafayette - Chicago) $4,160
From Markley to Mann Rd.
Crossing Pvmt. Improvements Needed (notes) Prel. Cost Est.
Status
Markley 5 Planks need minor repair $ 800
Markley 4 1 track ends $3,178
Modern Ln. 4 Re-pavement recommended/ $3,042
1 sign missing
Calton 2 Re-plaking required $5,067
Calton 9 Gate arms recommended
Justo Penn 4 Re-planking required $2,111
Justo Penn 3 1 sign missing/re-planking $1,240
req./ lights recomm.
Island 5 Planks need minor repair $1,040
Island 4 Re-planking required $1,360
Mann 5 Arms recomm/ planks need $1,760
repairs
Mann 3 Arms recomm/Planks need $1,760
repairs/ sign missing
Total ( Markley-Mann) $21,358
From Industrial to Uniroyal
Crossing Pvmt. Improvements Needed (notes) Prel. Cost Est.
Status
Industrial 1 Replanking required $9,476
Santa Maria 10
Tejas 7 Planks - fair
Las Cruces 7 Planks - good
San Loreno 4 Planks need repairs (wood) $1,480
San Mateo 7 Replanking required
Loop 20 10 Consider closing after
overpass complete
Trade Center 7 Private crossing/Big Buck
Asphalt
Unidentified 7 Private crossing
Port Laredo 10
Uniroyal 10
Total (Industrial-Uniroyal) $10,956
Pavement Status
PVMT 7+ Overall good condition/re-pavement not required.
PVMT 6- Pavement condition fair to poor/re-pavement
recommended and/or required.
Estimates for re-pavement only - calculated at $20/ square
yard
Motion to instruct staff to obtain a Capitol Improvement
Plan, within a time frame, from the railroad companies.
In addition, staff shall request ownership of the spurs
that are in question so that when there is a problem of
maintenance, the city will know exactly who the owner is.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Status report on Mines Road Task Force
activities and/or recommendations for traffic
control on FM 1472, with possible action.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, informed the
Council that weekly meetings are held with Zachary
Construction, Texas Department of Transportation,
the Engineer Department and the Police Department
to collaborate information resulting in a smoother
traffic flow.
He added that construction on the first bridge
will be completed in March and all the bridges
will be complete in June.
Agustin Dovalina III, Chief of Police, stated that
police officers are assigned to patrol the school
zone, especially during peak hours. Police Officers
are working in conjunction with United Independent
School District Police Department to ensure
motorist safety.
Motion to forward a letter from the Council to the Texas
Department of Transportation, requesting their support in
providing blinking lights that will announce the upcoming
school zone area on Mines Road in order to avoid a traffic
mishap.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Recess)
(Press Availability)
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
12. Closing as a public easement that section of the 1200
block of North India Avenues between the north
right-of-way line of Guadalupe Street and the south
right-of-way of the Texas Mexican Railroad tracks,
situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo,
County of Webb, Texas and providing for an effective
date.
Ordinance introduction: Cm. Bruni
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Available: //www.cityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive final reading of ordinances # 2000-O-044,
# 2000-O-045, # 2000-O-046, # 2000-O-047, # 2000-O-048,
# 2000-O-049 and # 2000-O-050.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 2000-O-044 To amend the City of Laredo's 1999-2000
annual budget by increasing estimated
revenues and appropriations in the General
Fund by $2,667.00 to provide for the match
to a $4,000.00 grand awarded by the Texas
Historical Commission to prepare an
application for a National Register District
nomination for El Azteca for a total
project cost of $6,667.00. The match of
$2,667.00 had been provided by the Webb
County Historical Commission.(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-044.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-045 Amending the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and Budget in the
amount of $285,938.00 for the HIV / AIDS
Ryan White Title II Project of the City
of Laredo Health Department for the period
beginning April 1, 2000, through March
31, 2001; and increase revenue line Item
226-0000-323-4051 from $0 to $285,938.00
and expenditure line Item 226-6023 from
$0 to $285,938.00; and authorizing the
City Manager to execute the contract.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-045.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-046 Amending the provisions of the City of
Laredo's Code of Ordinances Chapter 2,
Article II, Sec. 2-16, which sets forth
the departments of the city; thereby
eliminating the Traffic and Bridge
Department and creating two separate
departments: Traffic Department and
Bridge Department; providing for
publication and providing for an effective
date of April 3, 2000. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-046.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-047 Rescinding Ordinance No. 98-O-309 with
Smith Helicopters, Inc., and authorizing
the City Manager to execute a lease
between the City of Laredo, as Lessor,
and Jett Racing & Sales, as Lessee, for
a tract of land containing approximately
74,053 square feet located on Block No.
1, as Recorded in Volume 5, Page 1, Plat
Records of Webb County, Texas, said
property is located at the Laredo
International Airport and is further
described by metes and bounds description
in the lease agreement. Lease term is
for twenty (20) years commencing on
February 1, 2000 and ending on January
31, 2019 plus two consecutive ten-year
renewal option periods until January 31,
2039. Monthly rent shall be $1,175.50
plus annual rent adjustment based on
changes in the Consumer Price Index
and the rental obligation shall be
further adjusted based on Fair Market
appraisal at each ten (10) year
anniversary. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-047.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-048 Authorizing the City Manager to execute
an amendment to the Foreign Trade Zone
Operators agreement between the City of
Laredo, and Dairy Process, Inc.,
authorized by Ordinance No. 99-0-110
dated April 26, 1999, that will increase
the leased area from a 5,000 square foot
facility to a 10,000 square foot facility
within the Foreign-Trade Zone No. 94-Site
1 located at the Laredo International
Airport. (Cm Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-048.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-049 Amending Division 2 (Connections) of
Chapter 31 (Utilities), Section 31-32 and
Division 1 (Generally) of Chapter 31
(Utilities), Section 31-113 of the Code
of Ordinances to meet the requirements of
the Texas Water Development Board that
requires connection to the water and sewer
system within 90 days from the date when
services become available; and providing
for publication and an effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-049.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-050 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
budget amendment to the Transit Operations
Budget by appropriating additional state
funding of $115,771.00, thereby,
increasing Transit State Funding Budget
from $1,122,922.00 to $1,228,693.00 and
decreasing the local match from the Transit
Sales Tax Budget from $1,246,090.00 to
$1,130,319.00. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-050.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
14. 2000-R-025 Adopting the list of capital improvement
projects to be submitted to the South
Texas Development Council (STDC) for
incorporation in the Overall Economic
Development Program Plan (OEDP) to be
provided to the U.S. Department of
Commerce, Economic Development
Administration (EDA) for potential
funding consideration and authorizing
the City Manager to submit a follow-up
grant application as may be directed by
EDA. Projects to be included:
1. Streets of Laredo Urban Mall
1. CP&L Road Extension - Industrial Blvd. to Mines
Road
2. Cielito Lindo Commercial Development
3. El Portal Riverfront Development Project
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-025.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 2000-R-026 Authorizing the City Manager to execute
an Interlocal Government Agreement between
the City of Laredo and the Texas Parks
and Wildlife Department for the disposal
of Lake Casa Blanca State Park debris and
rubbish in exchange for City of Laredo
use of Lake Casa Blanca State Park facilities.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-026.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
16. Refund of property tax to the following taxpayers and
companies
a. Hermenegildo & Sonia Gonzalez in the amount of
$540.50 due to an Appraisal Review Board order.
Mr. Gonzalez property was split into two accounts.
b. Union Pacific System in the amount of $2,225.76
due to a double payment.
c. Leyendecker Materials in the amount of $3,643.91
due to a change of jurisdiction as per the
Appraisal Review Board order, account #801-12096-071.
d. Leyendecker Materials in the amount of $1,065.52
due to change of jurisdiction as per the Appraisal
Review Board order, account #801-12096-072.
e. Riverdrive Mall Associates, LTD in the amount of
$1,482.81 due to a District Court Order, Case
#97-CVQ00837-D2.
f. Pete Gallegos Sr., in the amount of $970.35 due
to double payment.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to make
monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amount to
be adjusted for the month of January 2000, is $45,018.67
which represents a decrease in levy. These adjustments
are determined by the County Appraisal District and
by Court Orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to award
Contract Number 00-061, to the LOW BIDDER, Dinastia
Computer Superstore, Laredo, Texas, in the base amount
of $104,624.25, for the purchase of approximately 75
computers. These computers will be purchased for
those departments that have been authorized computers
in the FY2000 fiscal budget. The City has established
a base price for a 700 MHz computer and option pricing
for accessories such as modems and zip drives.
Delivery of all requested equipment is expected
within thirty days.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
execute an agreement with the Texas A & M University
System to operate and maintain the on-campus water
and sewer system and the pavement, lighting and
landscaping of University Boulevard, in exchange for
the ownership of the off-site water and sewer lines
by TAMUS during the construction of the campus in
1993. The term of this agreement is indefinite.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter
into and execute a right-of-entry agreement with the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the purpose of testing
soils at two city properties as part of the City of
Laredo's Environmental Protection Agency Site
Investigation Brownfields Program:
1) a tract of land containing 11.081 acres, and
2) the property known as Vidaurri Avenue bounded by
Jefferson St. on the north and Moctezuma St. on
the south.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to
approve amending Contract Number FY00-002 awarded to
Digital Document Solutions, Laredo, Texas, for
providing four additional copiers. The original
contract provided for a thirty-six month rental
contract for twenty seven copiers. Staff is
requesting authorization to add four additional
copiers at the same contract pricing for the Public
Library (1), Traffic Department (1) and Bridge System
(2) at a monthly cost of $1,608.75.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORT
22. Update report on the Colonias water and wastewater
project with possible action. Informing Council that
BECC awarded Laredo a grant for $264,000.00 to pursue
the certification of the Colonias Project and be
eligible for supplemental funding by the North
American Development Bank.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, submitted the
following information:
Texas Water Development Board
* 15 Million Grant
* 1.5 Million Loan
* Water for all colonias
* Conventional Sewer for 359
* Septic tanks for Penitas and Mines Road.
Revenues
* Water connections : 658 - 853
* Water revenue - $130,000 - $170,000
* Sewer connections - $447 - 528
* Sewer revenue - $100,000 - $120,000
* (Does not consider Penitas)
BECC-NADBANK
* $264,000 for Technical assistance approved
* $6 Million (Loan or Grand?)
* Conventional Wastewater for Penitas and Mines
Road (Except Los Corralitos)
Timeline (Applications)
* March - Financial Application to staff
* April - Review by Finance Committee
* May - TWDB full board meeting
* June - Funding for engineering and construction
* September - BECC Board Meeting
Timeline (Project)
* March 2000 - Selection of program manager
* June 2000 - Sections of design teams.
* March 2001 - All design complete
* April 2001 - Construction begins
* October 2002 - Project completion
Pending Issues
* Public hearings (TWDB/BECC)
* Right-of-way
* Model Subdivision rules
* On-Site sewage facilities
* Growth potential along colonias corridor
Motion to name Cm. Alvarado and Cm. Agredano to
represent the City in the Steering Committee.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Presentation by the Utilities Department on a program
to identify areas of potential energy savings in the
water and wastewater treatment plants. The program
will allow the City to pay for construction of
energy-related capital improvements with the future
savings.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated that a
committee team would give the city a report that will
indicate how much electricity it can save by acting
on some capital improvements related to energy savings.
Cm. Bruni stated that the Water Committee did request
an analysis considering the possibility of powering
some of our equipment with natural gas.
Fernando Roman, stated that previous studies indicated
that powering equipment with natural gas will not
have a significant savings because it increases the
mechanical expense on the gas engines.
XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION
24. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.071(A) Government Code to discuss pending
litigation: Randal C. Spring v. City of Laredo,
Texas, and Agustin Dovalina, III, individually, Civil
Action No. L-99-111, in the United States District
Court for the Southern District of Texas Laredo
Division, and return to open session to conduct name
clearing hearing requested by Randal C. Spring.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.071 (A) Government Code to discuss pending litigation:
Randal C. Spring v. City of Laredo, Texas, and Agustin
Dovalina, III individually, Civil Action No. L-99-111, in
the United States District Court for the Southern District
of Texas Laredo Division, and return to open session to
conduct name clearing hearing request by Randal C. Spring.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that Jaime
Flores, City Attorney, stated that Mr. Spring's Attorney
petitioned Federal Court stating Council must have the
name clearing hearing. However, he petitioned the State
Court to enjoin the Council from having a name clearing
hearing.
No formal action was taken.
XV. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-S-006
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
FEBRUARY 28, 2000
5:30 P.M.
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA
VI. APPOINTMENTS
Confirmation of the Mayor's appointment of Silvia Ornelas
to the Appeals and Grievances Committee.
Motion to approve the appointment of Silvia Ornelas to the
Appeals and Grievances Committee.
Moved: Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
City Council confirmation of the City Council as the
Complete Census Count Committee.
Motion to approve the City Council confirmation of the
City Council as the Complete Census Count Committee.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
11. C. Request by Council Member Alfredo Agredano
1. Status report on the painting of the Cigarroa
Mascot at the South Laredo Water Tank.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, reported that the
Cigarroa Mascot, at the South Laredo Water Tank,
would be painted in April 2000.
XI. RESOLUTIONS
2000-R-030 Directing publication of notice of intention
to issue City of Laredo, Texas combination Tax
and Waterworks System Revenue Certificates of
Obligation, Series 2000, in the principal
amount of $2,485,000.00 for paying all or a
portion of the City's contractual obligations
for the purpose of improving and extending the
City's waterworks system, and the payment of
legal and fiscal fees in connection with this
project.
Motion to approved Resolution # 2000-R-030.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-R-031 Directing publication of notice of intention
to issue City of Laredo, Texas combination Tax
and Sewer System Revenue Certificates of
Obligation, Series 2000, in the principal
amount of $1,820,000.00 for paying all or a
portion of the City's contractual obligations
for the purposes of improving and extending
the City's sewer system, and the payment of
legal and fiscal fees in connection with this
project.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-031.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-R-034 Requesting financial assistance from the Texas
Water Development Board for the colonias
project, under the Economically Distressed
Areas Program; authorizing the filing of an
application for sewer improvements assistance;
and making certain findings in connection
therewith.
Rosario Camarillo-Cabello, Finance Director,
stated that the original amount listed was
$695,000 and the corrected amount will be
$705,000.
Motion to approved Resolution # 2000-R-034.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-R-035 Requesting financial assistance from the Texas
Water Development Board; for the colonias
project, under the Economically Distressed
Areas Program; authorizing the filing of an
application for water improvements assistance;
and making certain findings in connection
therewith.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-035.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. ADJOURNMENT TIME: 8:00 p.m.
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to
23 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council
Meeting held on the 28th day of February.
______________________
Gustavo Guevara, Jr.
City Secretary