CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-R-12
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
MAY 1, 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 Montalvo, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary
Cynthia Collazo, Acting City Manager
Larry Dovalina, Acting City Manager
Jaime Flores, City Attorney
IV. MINUTES
None
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
None
Invitations
None
Mimi Valdez read the following letter:
Mimi Valdez invited the Mayor, City Council and the public to attend the
Second Annual Dance Concert on behalf of the Laredo Community College
Music/Dance Department in association with the City of Laredo and the
Instituto Cultural Mexicano. It will be featuring the LCC Ballet
Folklorico, LCC Flamingo group and other special guests. The event will
take place May 5, at the Laredo Civic Center.
Recognitions
a. The Laredo Public Library's Poster Contest Award Winners.
Janice Weber, Library Director, introduced Cynthia Koepp who announced
the winners of the poster contest. The theme was returning your library
book on time. The winners were:
First Second Third Honorable Mention
Ages 5 & 6
Nini Longoria Jessie Soto Isaac S. Schwarz John N. Torres
Ruby Lopez
Ages 7 & 8
A. Nichole Serna Tiffany Jo Salazar Esmeralda Lopez Carlos Alonzo
Cuatro Longoria
Ages 9 - 11
Annie Elizabeth Miller Alejandrina Lopez Azucena Barron Nar Ramirez
Susana I. Casas
Ages 12 - 14
Salvador Barron Isabel Chavarria Sarah Farias Francisca Rodriguez
Mallory K. Miles
Ages 15 - 17
Patricia Flores Ricardo Medina Dania Karina Carmen L. Marquez
Gomez Soria Larry Miller, Jr.
b. Congratulations to American Eagle Laredo Station employees for garnering
Station of the Year for 1999 and Station of the 1st Quarter for 2000 for
Region 2 in the American Eagle System.
Jose Flores, Airport Director, acknowledged the American Eagle Laredo
Station for being the recipient of the Station of the Year award for 1999
and 2000. He recognized Bob Janzarli, Station Manager, and Senior
Agents Marty Alarcon and Rick Garcia for their outstanding contributions
in achieving the award.
c. Recognition of five individuals who saved a life on April 24, 2000, while
at Lake Casa Blanca State Park.
Mayor Flores and the City Council recognized the following individuals
for their heroic rescue in saving the life of a drowning victim at the
Laredo Casa Blanca on April 24, 2000: Rico Lopez, Joshua Thompson,
Carlos Cuellar, Manuel Trevino and Ivan Coss.
Communiqués
Cm. Agredano read the following letter from Mr. Jose Espinoza:
I have been advised that there will not be a summer Parks & Recreation Program in Los
Obispos Middle School or any school in the Santa Rita, Sierra Vista, Los Obispos and
Los Angeles area. I went before the City Council to request that a program be open at
Perez Elementary. The City Council approved the request. That summer Perez
Elementary Parks and Recreation Program registered over 400 students. This was
before the Los Obispos Subdivision was developed. The program averaged 150 to 200
students per day. Now we have four elementary schools and one middle school in the
area with a total enrollment of approximately 3,600 students in a five-mile radius.
The Parks & Recreation Program is desperately needed in this area. If the program is
being canceled due to the lack of interest in Los Obispos then the parents need to be
advised that the program is available. When the programs first opened at Perez
Elementary we gave every student a flyer about the program shortly before school let
out for the summer. At the present time there are no parks in the Sierra Vista, Los
Obispos, Los Angeles area where the students can go and play during the day which
leaves almost 3,600 students stuck at home on a daily basis because the parents are
busy working. I ask you as our councilmen to please have the city council reconsider
the decision and have a summer Parks & Recreation open up in this area. I will not be
able to attend the city neighborhood meeting tomorrow at Cigarroa Recreation Center
due to a previous commitment but I can be reached at my home or my cell phone.
Respectfully,
Joe Espinoza.
Cm. Agredano expressed his concerns about the summer program for the children.
Cm. Moreno reiterated the importance of completing Project 11. She added that
she had received a request in adding Tarvar Elementary School to the Speed Hump
Pi1ot Program.
She addressed the citizens of District IV stating:
"This is a very special time for me. It is with mixed emotions that I attend my
final meeting as a City Council member. It has been a great honor for me to
have served in this capacity and I have been blessed with many wonderful
experiences. These experiences have allowed me to work with many knowledgeable,
dedicated and committed City employees. City of Laredo employees are the finest
and they truly care about the people of Laredo and the services they provide.
Many of you know that I served on the Laredo City Council for ten years with no
financial compensation. I always use this term no financial compensation
because I have been compensated in many other ways. Your comments to me as
individuals, the relationships and the friendships that have developed have been
very rewarding. I want to thank those individuals who served as my
representatives in various boards and commissions. Your decisions will continue
to impact our community for many years. Thank you for serving and for doing
such a fine job. I want to thank the mayors that have served and that have
provided the leadership during my term in office. These include Mayor Aldo
Tatengelo, Mayor Saul Ramirez and Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores. You were always
an inspiration and you were a roll model for government leadership. I most
especially want to thank the members of the City Council past and present that
have been so caring and so willing to share their ideas and their thoughts. Our
decisions as a City Council have been made with much knowledge and thought.
Each decision is important and each decision is made with much care. Your
council members care about you, the residence of Laredo. They spend many hours
preparing, planning and executing their rolls as decision makers. This was a
very rewarding experience because I have worked with so many people. All of
which care about the outcome of the decisions that have been made."
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
1. Confirmation of Cm. Louis H. Bruni, and appointment Cm. John C. Galo to
the Oil and Gas Committee to replace José Perez, (co-sponsored by Cm.
Joe A. Guerra).
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing and introduction of an ordinance to amend the City of
Laredo's FY 1999-2000 annual budget by appropriating revenues and
expenditures in the 1998 Certificate of Obligation for interest earnings
which have been earned but not yet appropriated, and authorizing the City
Manager to implement said budget.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's FY 1999-2000 Annual Budget by
appropriating revenues and expenditures in the 1998 Certificate of
Obligation for interest earnings which have been earned, but not yet
appropriated.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
2. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Annual Budget to
appropriate the revenues and expenditures upon acceptance of a donation
of $4,000.00 for South Texas Distributors/Budweiser, $800.00 from Conoco
Pump-n-Shop and $3,000.00 from Clark Hardware, Inc., for the purchase of
a Teco mascot, Teco T-shirt and the sponsorship of the Famous Chicken,
respectively.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Annual Budget to appropriate the
revenues and expenditures upon acceptance of a donation of $4,000.00 from
South Texas Distributors/Budweiser, $800.00 from Conoco Pump-n-Shop and
$3,000.00 from Clark Hardware, Inc., for the purchase of a Teco mascot,
Teco T-shirt and the sponsorship of the Famous Chicken, respectively.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Galo
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
3. Public hearing concerning an application by Columbus Energy Corp.,
authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for gas extraction on
3.00 acres out of Porcion - 46, Abstract 478, as further described by
metes and bounds, located west of Hwy. 83 and north of the City of Rio
Bravo. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the
Special Use Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for gas extraction on
3.00 acres out of Porcion - 46, Abstract 478, as further described by
metes and bounds, located west of Hwy. 83 and north of the City of Rio
Bravo, known as McKendrick - Akin No. 2; providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Agredano
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
4. A. Request by Council Member John C. Galo
1. Discussion on the synchronization of traffic signals located at
Matamoros St./San Dario Ave. with Matamoros St./Santa Ursula
Ave., with possible action.
Tony Garcia, Traffic Department, reassured the Council that the
synchronization of traffic signals would be corrected in four
weeks.
2. Discussion on vagrant problems, with possible action.
Eliodoro Granados, Assistant Chief of Police, stated that Laredo
has 39 hapless, homeless people. He added that officers always
respond to the calls however, it is difficult to incarcerate the
individuals because the county jail is full to capacity. He also
stated that the Police Department is working in conjunction with
the Homeless Coalition to find better solutions to better serve
the community.
Cm. Galo devoted considerable discussion about vagrants. He
expressed his concern was about the safety of Laredoans. He
instructed staff to vigorously pursue solutions for the problem.
3. Discussion on the enforcement of garage sales and commercial
sales by outdoor vendors, with possible action.
Benny Salinas, Building Director, explained the procedure for
garage and commercial sales. He informed the Council that the
Building Department only has only two zoning officers for the
entire City.
Cm. Galo expressed his concerns about businesses that are
invading residential areas without going through the proper
channels.
Eliodoro Granados, Assistant Chief of Police, stated vendors are
sited if they are on the right-of-way.
Cindy Collazo, Acting City Manager, informed the Council that
staff is reviewing the procedures. She added that the permitting
process is being considered in order to guarantee compliance.
B. Request by Council Member Cecilia May Moreno
1. Discussion with possible action to consider the agent of record
designation currently being used as we address insurance.
Dan Migura, Administrative Service, recommended presenting the
agent of record designation to an ad hoc committee.
Motion to send the agent of record designation to the Ad Hoc Committee to review
the issues.
Cm. Valdez was added to Ad Hoc Committee.
Moved: Cm. Moreno
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Request by Council Member Mario G. Alvarado
1. Status report on Mines Road Task Force activities and/or
recommendations for traffic control on FM 1472, with possible
action.
Tony Garcia, Traffic Department, reported that the fly over would
be fully functional within a couple of weeks. The fly over will
alleviate problems for a smoother traffic flow.
Mayor Flores strongly emphasized the intensive planning of the
traffic patterns for the Mines Road Project achieved through the
combined efforts of the Metropolitan Planning Organization, TxDot
and the County.
After elaborating on several projects that will give Mines Road
back to the citizens, she stated that Laredo has acquired an
additional $568 million dollars as a result of this planning.
The council is aware of the traffic problem and will aggressively
oversee all future projects.
Larry Dovalina, Acting City Manager, stated that the City is
waiting for TxDot to complete utility work along Interstate 35
before connecting the newly constructed Killam Industrial
Boulevard to the interstate. He stated the project is 87%
complete.
With the above in mind, Cm. Alvarado recommended several
solutions brought to his attention by his constituents. He gave
several suggestions and stressed his desire to expedite all
projects.
(Recess)
(Press Availability)
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
5. Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with
Jose Mario Flores for approximately 25,264.80 square feet of land to
include Building No. 464 that consists of 8,332 square feet located at
1705 E. Hillside Road. Lease term is for twenty five (25) years
commencing May 1, 2000 and ending on April 30, 2025 and may be extended
for one (1) term of five (5) years ending on April 30, 2030. Monthly rent
shall be $1,333.00 and will be adjusted annually during the primary and
extension terms of this lease according to changes in the Consumer Price
Index, and further adjusted by Fair Market Value appraisal on the 10th
and 20th anniversaries. Previous tenant was Madrid Printing paying
monthly rent of $1,318.71.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Available: //www.cityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive final reading of ordinances # 2000-O-106, # 2000-O-107,
# 2000-O-108, # 2000-O-109, # 2000-O-110, # 2000-O-112, # 2000-O-113,
# 2000-O-114, # 2000-O-117, # 2000-O-119, # 2000-O-120, # 2000-O-121,
# 2000-O-122 and # 2000-O-123.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. 2000-O-106 An ordinance amending the FY1999-2000 budget in the amount of
$74,000.00 allocating indirect (cost) funds reimbursed by the
Texas Department of Health to further the activities and
scope of work of the Women and Children Health Program of the
City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
October 1, 1999, through September 30, 2000, and increasing
revenue line item 226-0000-323-4137 from $0 to $74,000, and
expenditure line item 226-6800 from $0 to $74,000.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-106.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-107 An ordinance amending Section 24.80 of the Laredo Land
Development Code by repealing the existing Model Subdivision
Rules adopted on January 22, 1996 and adopting the new Model
Subdivision Rules as revised and adopted by the Texas Water
Development Board and as provided by the Texas Water Code
regulating development within the extraterritorial
jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City of Laredo; and amending
Appendix A of the Laredo Land Development Code; providing
for publication and effective date. (Cm. John C. Galo)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-107.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-108 An ordinance to amend the City of Laredo 1999-2000 Annual
Budget by increasing the estimated revenues and
appropriations in the General Fund by $7,833.00 for a Texas
Historical Commission grant of $2,272.00 to complete the
preparation of an application for a National Register
District nomination for El Azteca Neighborhood. A $5,561.00
match will be provided by El Azteca Economic Development and
Preservation Corporation and the Webb County Heritage
Foundation, Inc., which exceeds the federal match requirement,
to complete the final phase of the project. (Cm. Consuelo
"Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-108.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-109 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 441.393 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds; located north of the City of Rio Bravo and west of
Hwy. 83, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to
R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District); providing for
publication and effective date. (Cm. Alfredo Agredano)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-109.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-110 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 47.317 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located north of the City of Rio Bravo and west of
Hwy. 83 from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4
(Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and
effective date. (Cm. Alfredo Agredano)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-110.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-112 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 2.784 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located north of Hwy. 359 and east of Loop 20, from
R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District); providing for publication and effective
date. (As amended) (Cm. Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-112.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-113 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 6.008 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located west of McPherson Rd. and north of Shiloh Dr.
from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-3
(Community Business District); providing for publication and
effective date. (Cm. Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-113.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-114 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a
residence and catering services on Lot 4, Block 409, Western
Division, located at 2202 Ventura; providing for publication
and effective date. (As amended) (Cm. Consuelo "Chelo"
Montalvo)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-114.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-117 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning lot 8 and N 1/2 of 6, Block 485, Western Division,
located at 309 Park St. from R-O (Residential/Office District)
to B-1 (Limited Business District); providing for publication
and effective date. (Mayor Pro Tempore Consuelo "Chelo"
Montalvo)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-117.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-118 A ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease
agreement with LABATA Services for approximately 117 square
feet constituting AOA Office No. 3 of the Passenger Terminal
Building located at 5210 Bob Bullock Loop. Lease term is for
one (1) year commencing March 1, 2000 and ending on February
28, 2001, and may be extended for two (2) terms of one (1)
year each ending February 28, 2002 and February 28, 2003.
Monthly rent shall be $150.00 and will be adjusted annually
during the primary and extension terms of this lease
according to changes in the Consumer Price Index.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-118.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-119 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Scheduled Airline Operating Agreement and Terminal Building
Lease with Aerolitoral S. A. de C. V. dba Aerolitoral
Airlines 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
fourteen (14) months effective May 2, 2000 and ending on June
30, 2001. The monthly rent including landing fees is capped
at $1.50 per enplaned revenue passenger and the monthly rent
is waived for the first six (6) months of this agreement.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-119.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-120 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents to effectively convey to Fasken, Ltd.,
a Texas Limited Partnership, a 0.3750 of an acre (16,346 sq.
ft.), more or less, tract of land, being out of Porcion 20,
Abstract No. 48, Webb County, Texas; being generally
described below, and more particularly described by metes
and bounds; in exchange for an equal size and equal value,
0.3750 of an acre (16,346 sq. ft.), more or less, tract of
land, from Fasken, Ltd., being out of Porcion 20, Abstract
No. 48, Webb County, Texas, being generally described below,
and more particularly described by metes and bounds; and
providing for an effective date. (Cm. Mario G. Alvarado)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-120.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-121 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to waive rental
fees for Laredo Crime Stoppers, Inc. on May 27th and May
28th, 2000 at the Benavides Softball Complex, because Council
finds that it is in the public interest to support the Laredo
Crime Stoppers Memorial Day Weekend Softball Tournament.
The maximum potential loss is approximately $580.00 based
on the rental fees as set out in ordinance 96-O-057.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-121.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-122 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease
with STPCS Joint Venture, LLC, a corporation for a lease at
the Del Mar Water Tower located on 6.7 acres out of Block 13,
Del Mar Section 1A, Laredo, Webb County, Texas, to locate
cellular antennas and related equipment for use in connection
with its communication business. Term of the lease in five
(5) years commencing May 1, 2000 and ending April 20, 2005,
with three (3) successive renewal terms of five (5) years.
Annual base rent shall be $7,700.00 each year during the term
of the lease and will be adjusted on each anniversary of the
commencement date according to changes in the consumer price
index, providing for effective date. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-122.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-123 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo
by rezoning Lots 9 and 10, Block 10, Crown Ridge Subdivision
Phase 5, located at 406 and 408 Northstar Rd. from B-3
(Community Business District) to R-1 (Single Family
Residential District); providing for publication and
effective date. (Cm. Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to adopt # 2000-O-123.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
7. 2000-R-058 A resolution opposing the creation of One Stop State Border
Inspection Facilities as provided through Texas
Transportation Commission Minute Order No. 108047 and further
calling on local, county, and state elected officials to
unite in opposing implementation of the same that would
impede the flow of commerce through ports of entry in Laredo,
El Paso, and Brownsville, Texas.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-058 as amended, "Two Stop" instead of
"One Stop".
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 2000-R-061 Consideration to accept a 5.090 acre tract of land, more or
less, from G.G. Salinas, adjacent to Village Heights
Subdivision, Unit I, located at Eskimo Drive and Taiga Court,
from Village Heights LTD, for use as a park and open space.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-061 as amended, 5.590 acres instead of
5.090 and Eduardo De La Chiva instead of G. G. Salinas.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Guerra
9. 2000-R-066 A resolution declaring the public necessity to re-acquire the
lease on one tract of land, described as Block "Z", situated
in the western division, Laredo, Webb County, Texas for a
public purpose and public use, in order to provide and
enhance additional downtown local, tourist, and visitor
parking and shopping opportunities.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-066.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 2000-R-067 A resolution authorizing the City Manager to amend the
Section 108 Loan Agreement between the City of Laredo, and
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in
regards to the financing, renovation and conversion of the
Hamilton Hotel. It is proposed that the term of payment for
the note be decreased from twenty (20) years to ten (10)
years. Future CDBG allocations and the City of Laredo
General Fund guarantee the Section 108 Loan.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-067.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 1 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Moreno
11. 2000-R-068 A resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant
from the Texas Book Festival in the amount of $2,500.00 for
library books.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-068.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 2000-R-069 A resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant
application with the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice
Division to fund the Texas Narcotics Control Program. The
total grant funding is in the amount of $1,552,624.00 with
the Criminal Justice Division designating $1,164,468.00
and the City of Laredo designating $388,156.00 in matching
funds. Funding is available from the opening balance of
the Narcotics Task Force Division and will be used to pay
salaries, overtime, indirect operating expenses, and the
purchase of equipment from June 1, 2000 through May 31, 2001.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-069.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
13. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to amend the Advance Funding
Agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation to reflect an
increase of $541,630.00 due to the revised cost estimate form Central
Power & Light Company to relocate two overhead power lines to meet the
new right-of-way, including the rerouting of one overhead 12.5kV
distribution line. These improvements are necessary for the completion
of the Milo Interchange Project and will be funded from the City's
current State Infrastructure Bank Loan proceeds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. Consideration to rescind the selection of consultant G.G. Salinas
Engineering Company for the Fire Station No. 12 located at Bob Bullock
Loop in the vicinity of TAMIU, and to approve selection of consultant
Rosin Group, Inc., Laredo, Texas, and authorize staff to negotiate a
professional services contract. Funding is available in the New Fire
Station Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. Consideration to award contract number FY00-090, to the SOLE BIDDER,
R.C. Kahn Corp. DBA Evergreen Landscaping, Laredo, Texas, in the amount
of $31,000.00, for the installation of a sprinkler irrigation system at
the North East Hillside Park located at 320 Wyoming. The system will
irrigate the park grounds and the Zacate Creek drainage area that has
been hydro-seeded for erosion control. Funding is available in the
Capital Improvement Fund - District 5 Construction Projects.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Consideration to authorize the purchase of twenty two portable radios
for the Police Department through the Houston Galveston Area Council of
Governments (HGAC) - Cooperative Purchasing Program, in the principal
amount of $74,130.97. 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 Trust Fund and will be assigned to
the new police cadets scheduled for graduation in June.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Consideration to award a contract number 00-089, to the SOLE BIDDER,
Majic Car Wash Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of
$35,000.00, for furnishing car wash services for the City's automotive
fleet. Bids were requested on car wash services with and without inside
vacuum. All services are secured on an as needed basis. The bid
pricing increased approximately 8% from the previous contract period.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Consideration to authorize the City Administrative Services Director to
proceed with the recruitment of applicants for the position of City
Manager and to authorize a temporary adjustment in the pay of the two
Assistant City Managers during the interim period that they perform the
duties and responsibilities of Acting City Managers in accordance with
Section 2-87.7 (d)(11) of the Code of Ordinances, City of Laredo.
Cm. Moreno supports 10% rather than 15%.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Consideration to award contract number 00-095, to the LOW BIDDER, for
the purchase of traffic signal mast arms and poles. These will be
installed at the following intersections: Muller/FM1472 (Mines Road)
and Taylor/Marcella. Bids will be opened on Monday, May 1, and the low
bidder will be announced at the City Council meeting. Funding is
available from the following budgets: Muller/FM1472 - 1998 CO Street
Projects and Taylor/Marcella - Capital Improvement Project - Signalization.
Motion to approve to preferred bidder JEM Engineer at a cost of $24,649.00
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Consideration to amend a contract with CH2MHill to provide technical
support, value engineering, and research of various issues related to
the secondary water supply. The current contract with CH2M Hill is for
$205,000.00 and will be increased by $100,000.00 for a total of
$305,000.00 with this amendment.
Charles Martens spoke in favor allowing the consultants to charge an
extra $100,000. He also spoke in favor keeping CH2MHill on as
consultants.
Joe Aceves, representative from Zachary Thames Water, stated that the
company has eagerly achieved all requirements asked of them for the
evaluation. He stated that his company has competitive costs on the
submittal and they have some distinct advantages in some of the key
considerations that are being made. He requested to see the evaluations.
Mr. Zachary, from Zachary Thames, exemplified the importance of water.
He told the Council that their decision could be detrimental to the
growth and wellness of Laredo in the future. He asked them to open up
their prospective.
Cm. Galo, questioned how the city is going to be billed for the monies.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORT
21. Presenting the recommendation of the Water Issues Committee regarding
selection of two firms to develop a second water supply project, with
possible action.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, reported that the Water Issues
Committee had instructed staff to do three things.
1. The first motion was to develop proposals with U. S. Filter and United Water.
2. The second motion was to begin negotiating with the owners of the northwest Webb
County Water to purchase the pumping or the developing rights.
3. The third motion was to approve the hiring of CH2MHill.
He discussed proposals submitted by different companies.
Cm. Bruni stated that since 1994 the Water Issues Committee has been very
concerned about the quality of the Rio Grande and securing a secondary source of
water. He stated that water is one of the most important decisions that the
City Council is going to make in terms for securing the development and economic
development of the City of Laredo.
Cm. Galo stated that the Council has the responsibility to secure a long-term
solution for the City of Laredo. He added that he did not want to make the same
mistake that San Antonio made in 1960.
Motion to select two companies that submitted proposals for the city of Laredo
short-term secondary ground water development project. More specifically, to
instruct the City Managers to finalize their proposals. The two companies are
U. S. Filter Operating Services Inc. of Houston Texas and United Water Services
L L C of New Jersey. Also, to instruct City Manager to proceed with the
negotiations with Zachary Thames for the long term source in Northwest Webb
County.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
City of Laredo
City Council Meeting
M2000-S-12
City Council Chambers
1110 Houston Street
Laredo, Texas 78040
May 1, 2000
5:30 p.m.
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA
XIII. Staff Report
1. A presentation by B. W. Zimmerman & Associates and Graphitiks
Advertising Design on the marketing strategy and plan for our upcoming
Automated Vehicle Identification and Weigh in Motion System, with
possible action.
The following information was submitted by B. W. Zimmerman & Associates/Graphitiks:
o The team of B. W. Zimmerman & Associates and Graphitiks answered a Request for
Proposal published by the City.
o BWZ is very proud to have worked with the City since 1998 and was recognized for
our support at the Bridge IV Grand opening
o Graphitiks has an outstanding reputation for their work with the City
o We prepared a "cafeteria-style" approach to our solution to allow the City to pick
and choose
Phase I - Initial Marketing Activities
Notice to Proceed
Mobilization
Development Finalize Schedule
Develop and Finalize Marketing Plan
Image Design
Motion to approve marketing plan for $200,000.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. Adjournment Time: 8:20 p.m.
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages one to 18 are true,
complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council Meeting held on the 1st of
May, 2000.
____________________________
Gustavo Guevara
City Secretary