CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-R-25
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
SEPTEMBER 18, 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, Council
Member, District I
Louis H. Bruni, Council
Member, District II
John C. Galo, Council
Member, District III
Johnny Amaya, Council Member,
District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Mayor
Pro Tempore, District VI
Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District VII
Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary
Larry Dovalina, Acting
City Manager
Jaime Flores, City
Attorney
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes of August 7, 2000, August 10, 2000, August
14, 2000 and August 15, 2000.
Motion to approve the minutes.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
Mayor Flores announced the creation of the Rail Policy Committee
which will be composed of Cm. Jose A. Valdez, Jr. as Chair, Cm. Juan Ramirez,
and Cm. John C. Galo. She stressed that
there are many light-rail and heavy-rail issues that must be addressed in the
community, and Union Pacific will send some staff to provide input on these
freight rail matters to the newly formed committee.
Victor Jacaman announced the creation of a Trail Ride with the
cooperation of the City of Laredo to benefit the children of Laredo. The trial ride would provide a positive form
of recreation for the children. The
route to be followed by the trail riders would serve to familiarize them with Laredo as well.
Mayor Flores informed Mr. Jacaman that there is also a committee
in place composed of city staff that is working on a trail and bike route for
the community. She mentioned that the
city staff would add his name to the committee list and send him an invitation
to attend the next meeting.
Invitations
Recognitions
Communiqués
Cm.
Bruni submitted a Rain Enhancement Report from the Southwest Texas Rain
Enhancement Association for seeding flight activity of September 13, 2000. This report is available at the City Secretary’s Office for public
viewing.
Cm.
Bruni also submitted a letter addressed to Erasmo Villarreal, Cynthia Collazo,
and Arturo Garcia via e-mail by Marisela Rangel in connection with noise
abatement concerns.
Mayor Flores provided council members with a brief summary of the
matters addressed during the Conference of Mayors which she attended in Boise,
Idaho. She mentioned that there were
several important issues discussed during this Leadership Conference which she
will elaborate on in her written report to the council members.
Cm. Bruni read some of the Laredo International Airport’s
year-to-date accomplishments and activities.
·
Passenger
activity is up 5 % to 62,793 in plane passengers;
·
Air cargo
activity is up 12 % to 262 million pounds of gross landed weight;
·
Aircraft
operations are up 10 % to 44,519 operations;
·
Completed
reconstruction of the air cargo apron, several taxiways, and a portion of
runway 17R representing an investment of $4.9 million dollars;
·
Private
sector investment in the construction of four cargo facilities totaling $1.6
million dollars;
·
Private
sector investment in the construction of commercial buildings totaling almost
$1 million dollars;
·
Process two
airport improvement program grants from the Federal Aviation Administration in
the total amount of $5.2 million dollars to rehab a portion of runway 17R and
acquire a tract of land to extend our parallel taxiway;
·
Submit a
request from Federal Aviation Administration to fund an update on the PART 150
noise compatibility study;
·
Submit a
request to the Federal Aviation Administration to fund an airport Master Plan
to include medical-related use of non-aeronautical properties;
·
Creation of
the foreign trade policy and procedures to transfer foreign-trade-zone
designations within the City of Laredo; and
·
Creation of
an airport land marketing policy that enables the payment of real estate
commissions to real estate brokers whose efforts result in leasing of airport
property.
Mayor Flores heard testimony from Luis Dovalina, Laredo Police
Department President,
who spoke regarding the meeting with the Chief of Police
concerning their request for additional investigator positions. Officer Dovalina reported that the city
needs to plan ahead due to the tremendous growth the city is experiencing and
this justifies the need for more investigators’ positions due to the increase
in crime in Laredo.
Chief Agustin Dovalina reported on some of the options proposed to
the City Manager’s Office, and he recommended choosing Option B which would be
the most cost effective method to ensure that all candidates on the list are
promoted and to secure the additional sergeant positions as well.
Luis Dovalina suggested that Option A be accepted which would
require reclassification of personnel in order to increase the number of
investigators’ positions.
Acting City Manager Larry Dovalina stated that Chief Dovalina’s
proposal to the City Manager’s Office included a proposed submittal for a COPS
grant for creation of 40 additional positions for which the city has budgeted
the money. He commented that the
central issue here is that this request is being driven by the eligibility list
on which these individuals are. If
these officers do not receive a promotion at this time, they will lose their
eligibility status and will have to re-compete for the positions. Mr. Dovalina clarified some points on the
issue of annexation and the related laws that were passed. He explained that the laws state that the
city must provide comparable service to that being provided within the
community; and as long as the city provides that equal service, it does not
state that the city needs to increase public safety or any particular areas of
the budget in order to be able to annex.
Chief Dovalina affirmed that the police department does have the
adequate manpower to handle the pressing needs of the community at this time.
Officer Jorge Luna reported on the crime statistics compiled and
the level of increase in crime from July, 1999, to July, 2000.
Officer Luis Martinez stated that Option A is the best solution
for personnel as well as for the city in ensuring public safety to the
community.
Officer Anthony Carrillo spoke regarding the number of
investigators that are needed within each division. He stated that the supervisors of each separate division
recommend a minimum number of two investigators in order to adequately serve
the department.
Officer Ricardo Taguma restated the reasons why the city needs
more investigators, including the need to reduce the number of cases assigned
to the limited investigative personnel.
Motion to bring up as a secondary motion consideration of Item B
(1) from page twelve of the agenda.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to accept Option A
recommended by Officer Luis Dovalina.
Moved: Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Bruni
Cm.
Galo
June Leyendecker addressed City Council to voice her objections
over a zone designation change and to protest a paving project which bisected
her property by Springfield Avenue.
Being that Springfield Avenue is now fully paved up to Michigan Avenue
on Hilltop Road, she is concerned that this paving project will cause uneven
deterioration of the sub-base and uneven curing since the road is only
partially paved lengthwise to her property line.
She is requesting that the routing of Springfield Avenue be
carried out as it had been proposed initially by the Planning and Zoning
Department in 1991. She stated that the
originally proposed route would direct Springfield northward, which is the
preferred and logical direction for the road.
Charles Martens spoke to City Council on behalf of U.S. Filter and
Killam Ranch properties regarding the city’s secondary water source. He stated that the firm has made a
financial commitment of approximately $700,000.00 of its money to drill two
test wells in order to find out their sustainability. He emphasized that they have the resources, the easements, the
water source, etc., but they cannot take on their commitment without a Letter
of Intent from the City of Laredo.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
a. Appointments by Council
Member Juan Ramirez of Rosa Elia Treviño to the Laredo
Commission for Women, Arturo Tijerina to the Planning and Zoning
Commission, Lily Perez to the Re-Districting Commission, and Richard Gentry to
the Tree Advisory Committee.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore
Guerra
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing to amend
the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 budget by appropriating
revenues and expenditures by $8,150.00 in the Convention &
Visitors Bureau Fund - Special Events budget due to receipt of donations from
the private sector for the annual City of Laredo Washington Trip to meet with
members of Congress and federal agencies and incurring expenditures associated
with said project and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 budget by appropriating
revenues and expenditures by $8,150.00 in the Convention & Visitors Bureau
Fund - Special Events budget due to receipt of donations from the private
sector for the annual City of Laredo Washington Trip to meet with members of
Congress and federal agencies and incurring expenditures associated with said
project and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
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. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
2. Public hearing to amend
the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Airport Budget to recognize
additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal
Aviation Administration being grant project no. 3-48-0136-27-00 in the amount
of $4,400,000.00 for the purpose of constructing a portion of a parallel
taxiway to Runway 17L/35R and appropriating said grant revenue and local match
to the appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager to
implement said budget amendment.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Airport Budget to
recognize additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal Aviation
Administration being grant project no. 3-48-0136-27-00 in the amount of
$4,400,000.00 for the purpose of constructing a portion of a parallel taxiway
to Runway 17L/35R and appropriating said grant revenue and local match to the
appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager to implement
said budget amendment.
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. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
3. Public hearing
concerning an application by Petra Limon amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 2, Block
290, Eastern Division, located at 605 Clark Blvd., from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to B-3 (Community Business District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 2, Block 290, Eastern Division, for use as a car lot, located at
605 Clark Blvd., 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. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Fernando Limon, a family member representing Petra Limon,
requested a conditional use permit.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a Conditional
Use Permit with staff comments.
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Amaya
4. Public hearing
concerning an application by Gerardo Mendoza amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1 and the W
16' of Lot 2, Lot 12 and the W 16' of Lot 11, Block 1231, Eastern Division,
located at 2101 Kearney St., from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-3
(Community Business District). The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 1 and the W 16' of Lot 2, Lot 12 and the W 16' of Lot 11, Block
1231, Eastern Division, located at 2101 Kearney St., from R-3 (Mixed
Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and table.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. Public hearing and
adoption of Resolution 2000-R-126 adopting the 2001-2005 Capital
Improvement Program
for the City of Laredo.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 2000-R-126
Adopting the 2001-2005
Capital Improvement Program for the City of Laredo.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning and Zoning Director, provided a summary to
the City Council regarding proposed projects and their respective revenue
allocations. He commented that it is
the responsibility of the Planning and Zoning Commission to provide
recommendations to the City Council on the Capital Improvement Program. He mentioned that as part of the
requirements in the Capital Improvement Program process as outlined in the
Charter provisions, the Capital Improvement Program goes to the Planning and
Zoning Commission for consideration.
Mr. Selman stated that there were two public hearings held at the
Planning and Zoning Commission level over the Capital Improvement Program, and
that it is the responsibility of the commission to provide recommendations to
the City Council.
Cm. Bruni called for a motion to include in the Capital
Improvement Programs the extension of Bartlett St. from Hillside to Gale and
from Gale to Jacaman Road. Mayor Pro
Tempore Guerra stated he would second the motion provided there was a
stipulation that District VI be granted $800,000.00 for additional projects
needed.
Mayor Flores stressed that before the City Council votes on the
bond issue, she wants to make sure that the projects under the Capital
Improvement Program can be started immediately.
Cm. Bruni withdrew his motion to reserve an
additional portion of the revenues under the Capital Improvement Program for
the Bartlett St. extension.
Motion
to close the public hearing and adopt the Capital Improvement Program subject
to future revisions on the mentioned projects.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. Public hearing and
adoption of Resolution 2000-R-136 adopting the Comprehensive
Plan of the City of Laredo without amendment in compliance with
Article IX, Section 9.03 of the Charter of the City of Laredo.
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 2000-R-136
Adopting the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Laredo without
amendment in compliance with Article IX, Section 9.03 of the Charter of the
City of Laredo.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. E.
Valdez
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public
hearing and adopt.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. Public hearing to
identify and grant retiree medical benefits to employees who retire
between October 1, 2000 through March 31, 2001 with the exception
of Firefighters and Police Officers who are provided for under a collective
bargaining agreement and providing for and effective date of October 1, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Identifying employees and granting retiree medical benefits to
those employees who retire between October 1, 2000 through March 31, 2001 with
the exception of Firefighters and Police Officers who are provided for under a
collective bargaining agreement and providing and effective date of October 1,
2000.
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. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
8. Public hearing to amend
the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances as follows: Chapter 2,
Article II, Division 6 (Pay Administration), Section 2-87.7
(12)(a) except as otherwise stated in any collective bargaining agreement and
providing for an effective date of October 1, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo Code of
Ordinances as follows: Chapter 2,
Article II,
Division 6 (Pay Administration), Section 2-87.7 (12)(a) except as
otherwise stated in any collective bargaining agreement and providing for an
effective date of October 1, 2000.
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. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
9. Public hearing to amend
the City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Annual Budget by
appropriating Revenues and Expenditures in the Fleet Management
Fund by $240,000.00 due to the increase in fuel costs.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's FY
1999-2000 annual budget in the amount of $240,000.00 for fuel cost increase.
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. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
10.
Public hearing amending the contract with the Texas Department of Health
and budget
in the amount of
$17,139.00 for the Hepatitis C Study Project of the City of Laredo
Health Department for
the period beginning September 1, 2000 through August 31,
2001.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the contract with the Texas Department of Health and
budget in the amount of $17,139.00 for the Hepatitis C Study Project of the
City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2000
through August 31, 2001; and increasing revenue line item 226-0000-323-4085
from $0 to $17,139.00 and expenditure line item 226-6036 from $0 to $17,139.00.
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. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
11.
Public hearing amending the contract with the Texas Department of Health
and budget
in the amount of
$2,654,500.00 to operate the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Program, and to issue
approximately $13,000,000.00 in federal food vouchers by the
City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning October 1, 2000, through
September 30, 2001.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the contract with the Texas Department of Health and
budget in the amount of $2,654,500.00 to operate the Women, Infants, and
Children (WIC) Program, and to issue approximately $13,000,000.00 in federal
food vouchers by the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
October 1, 2000, through September 30, 2001; and increasing revenue line item
form the WIC Program 226-0000-323-4037 from $0 to $2,654,500.00 and expenditure
line item 226-6035 from $0 to $2,654,500.00.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
12.
Public hearing to amend the contract with the Texas Department of Health
and budget in
the amount of $4,470.00
in additional funds from $149,000.00 to $153,470.00 for the
HIV/AIDS Prevention
and Education Project of the City of Laredo Health Department
for the period
beginning January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2000.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the contract with the Texas Department of Health and
budget in the amount of $4,470.00 in additional funds from $149,000.00 to
$153,470.00 for the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Education Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning January 1, 2000, through
December 31, 2000; and increasing revenue line item 226-000-323-4043 from
$149,000.00 to $153,470.00 and expenditure line item 226-6016 from $149,000.00
to $153,470.00.
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: Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS
13. A. Request by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores
1.
Discussion on the possibility of opening the Civic Center Pool on
weekends
during the extended
warm weather months.
John Vidaurri, Parks
and Recreation Director, stated they have looked into the matter and have found
that to open the pool for an additional six-week period would cost
approximately $5,000.00 or approximately $800.00 per weekend. One of the problems they have encountered
is obtaining an adequate number of lifeguards. The current season runs through the middle of August, which is
about the time children begin their school year.
Motion to approve
the opening of the Civic Center Pool on weekends for six
additional weeks.
Moved: Cm.
Ramirez
Second: Cm.
E. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Request by Council Member Alfredo Agredano
1.
Status report on the meeting between the Laredo Police Officers
Association and Staff regarding
the Investigators positions, with possible action.
Item
was discussed earlier under Communiques.
Motion to adopt Option A.
Reclassification
of seven (7) patrolman positions to the rank of investigator as
follows:
$57,595.31 Investigator’s annual salary
including benefits
- $52,448.04 Patrol Grade 5 annual salary
including benefits
$ 5,147.27 Difference
x 7 #
of positions requested
$36,030.89 Total cost
for reclassification -- FY 01
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 6 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni
Cm. Galo
C. Request by
Council Member Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on the
Letter of Intent from the City of Laredo on the Secondary
Water Source, with
possible action. (Co-sponsored by Council Member John C.
Galo and Joe A.
Guerra)
Cm.
Bruni mentioned that the Water Issues Committee met on September 5, 2000, and
provided some directives to Fernando Roman to get this process moving along.
Fernando
Roman, Utilities Director, provided a draft of the Letter of Intent to be
addressed to the firms who have shown an interest in providing a secondary
water source to the City of Laredo. He
stated that the Letter of Intent meets the desires of the Water Issues
Committee by stating the city’s commitment to the project without necessarily
having a binding type of letter. It
simply tells the firms that the City of Laredo is proceeding with the project
and allows the firms sufficient time to gather their own data and put together
a report with their particular technical expertise. Once they present a report that fulfills the city’s terms and
conditions, then the City of Laredo will initiate its negotiations to reach
agreement on a water supply contract.
Motion
to authorize the City Manager to forward the Letter of Intent to the two
secondary water source firms.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible
action on providing alternative routes to alleviate and
reduce truck traffic
on Calton Rd. and McPherson Rd.
Keith
Selman, Planning and Zoning Director, mentioned that this item was discussed in
the workshop where a couple of scenarios were considered. He recommended forwarding this item to the
Traffic Safety Committee to look into four different scenarios.
Motion
to take this item to the Traffic Safety Committee with a 30-day turnaround to
the City Council for an update.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3.
Status report on the extension of Bartlett St. to Gale St., with
possible action.
Item
was discussed earlier under Item #5 (Capital Improvement Program).
D. Request by Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion with
possible action on El Metro's - El Lift Program and the service
provided by their automated and response telephone system.
Cm.
Valdez stated he had received several complaints from citizens that they place
calls to the agency but do not get the quality customer service they deserve.
Also,
on the matter of the El Lift Program, the major complaint that he wants
addressed is the requirement imposed on callers to provide a two weeks advance
notice for transportation. He stated
that in some situations this is not a realistic requirement and he wants to
re-evaluate El Lift’s service to ensure it is in tune with the needs of the
community.
Peter
Behrman, El Metro Manager, clarified some points regarding reservations
accepted for transportation service. He
stated that people are not required to reserve a seat two weeks in advance, but
they are given the option to reserve as far as two weeks in advance. It is merely a courtesy to those people that
would like to reserve the service ahead of time.
Regarding
the telephone system on Scott St., he agreed that there have been a number of
problems, and they are working on revamping the system to eliminate these
problems in the future. He reported
that his department is scheduled to begin construction this week on a Customer
Service Center that will be open at 6:00 a.m. and will be staffed by people to
provide quality service to the public.
He commented that all calls will be routed there and staff will be
available to answer the phone and provide information on all bus routes as well
as the El Lift program routes.
Cm.
Valdez suggested that this information be released to the public to ensure they
are aware that El Lift does not have a two-week requirement.
Daniel
Gonzalez, Jr. supervisor with El Metro, stated they have 17 routes to cover
with 18 vans.
Danny
La Duque, a citizen, spoke regarding the unsatisfactory service provided by El
Metro’s El Lift program. He has
received many complaints via the BEST organization about callers who are turned
down for transportation. He would like
to see El Metro upgrade its transportation system to assist as many members of
the community as possible.
Cm.
Valdez suggested that a motion be made to include Mr. La Duque as part of the
Laredo Metro Committee to provide citizens’ input in looking at the operations
of the transportation program.
Jaime
Flores, City Attorney, commented that Mr. La Duque and the BEST organization
have sued the City of Laredo. He
mentioned that some of the issues that Mr. La Duque is discussing are part of
the litigation and that while it is in order to listen to Mr. La Duque’s
concerns, he advises the City Council to withhold any type of response on the
matter because it is currently in litigation.
Mr.
La Duque asserted that neither he nor BEST have filed a lawsuit against the
City of Laredo.
Peter
Behrman stated that they have been working in conjunction with the BEST
organization for a number of years. He
mentioned that El Metro has a contract in place with the organization to go
through the certification list to ensure they are updated, and Mr. La Duque has
been helpful in keeping that list up to date.
He emphasized they have a good working relationship with the BEST
organization.
E. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez,
Jr.
1. Discussion with
possible action on requesting staff to conduct a noise impact
study caused by the increase in railroad traffic and find
available federal funding to mitigate any adverse impact to affected areas near
the railroad right-of-ways.
Cm.
Valdez suggested that a study similar to the airport study be prepared to
determine the noise-impacted areas due to railroad traffic.
Cm.
Galo stated that this concern had been addressed some time ago when he met in
Washington, D.C. with the Deputy Secretary of Transportation. At that time, she had stated that there were
no funds available and he agrees that this should be looked into once
more.
Keith
Selman mentioned that some of the UPWP monies could be used for such a noise
study. He suggested that the City
Council consider analyzing the impacts as well as the mitigating measures and
put together some type of capital programming.
He mentioned that the UPWP is on the agenda for the MPO Policy Committee
meeting and that there are some monies there that could be tapped into.
2. Discussion with
possible action to initiate a bus study for an additional bus route
from downtown to
Indian Sunset Subdivision.
Motion to table.
Moved: Cm.
J. Valdez
Second: Cm.
Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Status report on the
safety signalization at the Lafayette Bridge overpass, with
possible action.
Cm.
Valdez stated there was a study underway a month ago.
Tony
Garcia, Traffic Department, reported that four signs have been installed in the
area to reduce speed. He also mentioned
that the department is finalizing the acquisition of some underground conduits
needed to proceed with the placement of flashing beacons in the area.
F. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with
possible action on park benches around the Civic Center and Los
Dos Laredos Park.
John Vidaurri, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that some
benches were removed from the park after the flood. He stated that his department does have an item in the upcoming
budget to replace those benches as well as to replace barbeque grills in the
first quarter of the new fiscal year.
With regard to the Civic Center, the department does not currently have
any funding in the budget for benches off of San Bernardo Avenue. The placement of any benches would be under
the shade trees along the West side of the street.
Cm. Ramirez suggested that some local business people could donate
the benches to the City of Laredo.
John Vidaurri stated that the cost per bench would run
approximately $500.00 for the bench together with the bench pad.
2.
Discussion with possible action on the construction of a sidewalk at the
1400
block of San Eduardo on the west side and the 1600 block of San
Eduardo on the east side.
Gabriel
Martinez, City Engineering Department, reported
that currently they have 107 blocks of sidewalks under construction and another
143 blocks of sidewalks under design, but neither one of these blocks is
identified on the project list. He
mentioned that the cost per block would run approximately $9,000.00, which
includes the design as well as construction.
Acting
City Manager Larry Dovalina stated that there is a problem on the 1600 block of
San Eduardo because there are two homes that encroach unto the right-of-way
with a covered canopy. In order to
construct the sidewalk, the city would have to remove those canopies or ask the
homeowners to allow the city to connect that portion already in place with the
proposed sidewalk. He stated that the
City Council would need to find the funding source possibly adding it on to the
budget items that they would receive under the CIF fund.
3.
Discussion with possible action on increasing the salaries of the Mayor
and City
Council.
Cm.
Ramirez stated that the current City Council Members earn $500.00 per month or
$6,000.00 per year. He stated that a
Council Member’s job is fast becoming a full time job. He also mentioned that Mayor Flores goes
well beyond her assigned duties and is instrumental in securing growth and
prosperity for our city. He recommended
that the annual salary for the Mayor be increased by $8,000.00 and the salary
for City Council Members be increased to $12,000.00.
Jaime
Flores, City Attorney, explained that the raise would take effect upon the new
respective term of each council member and the same goes for the mayor’s term.
Mayor
Flores mentioned that the Council Members’ service to their constituents
requires the addition of support staff to better serve the citizens’
needs. She also stated that some
Council Members have had the ability to fund their own staff, but others have
not. She emphasized the need for all
Council Members to be provided with a support staff to better address the needs
and concerns of their
constituents.
Motion
to instruct the City Manager’s Office to prepare an ordinance setting the
salaries for the City Council pursuant to Section 2.02 of the City Charter at
$12,000 annual salary for Council Members and $36,000.00 annual salary for the
Mayor for the next term for each respective council seat and the mayor’s seat.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
14. An ordinance providing
for the levy and collection of General and Special Ad Valorem
and Alcoholic Beverage taxes for the City of Laredo for the tax
year 2000. Therefore, providing revenue
for the operation of the City and payment of the Interest and Sinking fund for
Debt Service.
Mayor Flores read the Ordinance in its entirety.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
15. An ordinance adopting
the City of Laredo Policy on Workplace Violence.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
16. An ordinance adopting
the City of Laredo Policy on Sexual and Other Forms of
Harassment.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Availability: http://wwwcityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive final reading of ordinances 2000-O-209,
2000-O-220, 2000-0-221,
2000-O-222, 2000-O-224 and 2000-O-225.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 2000-O-209 Repealing the Ambulance Advisory Council
Ordinance dated April 7,
1981 consisting of eight (8) members for the purpose of advising
and consulting with the City of Laredo in regards to operations of both the
public and private ambulance systems.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-209.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Flores temporarily out and Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra
presiding.
2000-O-220 Adopting the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2000-2001 by
appropriating
the estimated revenues and balances reported therein for the year
beginning October 1, 2000 and ending September 30, 2001, consistent with the
financial plan described in said Annual Budget; and authorizing the City
Manager to implement said Annual Budget.
(City Council)
The following motions were presented by Heberto Ramirez, Budget
Officer, for council consideration:
Motion to increase revenues and
expenditures as follows:
Increase current year taxes (revenues) in
Hotel-Motel Fund $60,000
Increase transfer-out (expenditures) in
Hotel-Motel Fund
to Convention & Visitors Bureau Fund $60,000
Increase transfer-in (revenues) in
Convention & Visitors
Bureau Fund from Hotel-Motel Fund $60,000
Increase marketing expenditures in
Convention & Visitors
Bureau Fund $60,000
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Increase expenditures in Hotel-Motel Fund for Historical and Arts
Third-Party Agencies for a total fund balance decrease of $12,555
as follows:
Increase Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra $12,000
Increase Laredo Little Theater $ 555
Decrease Fund Balance ($12,555)
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Increase Boy Scouts Gulf Coast Council (General Fund Third-Party
Agency) as follows:
Increase Boy Scouts Gulf Coast Council and
to include Veterans
funding, if available: $ 8,000
Decrease Bad Debt expenditures in General Fund by $8,000 ($
8,000)
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain:
0
Motion to increase and decrease revenues and expenditures as
follows:
Increase Transit Operating Budget (558) revenues
$275,584
Increase Transit Operating Budget (558) expenditures $211,264
Increase Transit Center Facility Budget (518) expenditures $
9,165
Decrease transfer-out (expenditures) in Sales Tax
Revenue Budget (518) to
Operating Budget ($64,320)
Decrease transfer-in (revenues) in Operating Budget (558)
from Sales Tax Revenue ($64,320)
Increase transfer-out (expenditures) in Sales Tax Revenue
Budget (518) to Transit
Center Facility Budget $
9,165
Increase transfer-in (revenues) in Transit Center Facility
(518) from Sales Tax
Revenue Budget $
9,165
Increase Sales Tax Revenue Budget (518) reserve
appropriation $55,155
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-220 as amended.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to approve $43,000.00 in line item savings during the year
from
the Police Budget to fund additional salaries for the
reclassifications of police officers.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-221 Amending the
City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Budget in the amount of
$20,000.00 for the Children's Dental Health Program of the City of
Laredo Health Department to reflect an amendment to the contract with the Texas
Health Science Center at Houston Dental Branch for the period beginning August
1, 2000 through July 31, 2001; and increase revenue line item 226-0000 from $0
to $20,000 and expenditure line item 226-6301 from $0 to $20,000. (City Council)
Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-221.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-222 Amending the
City of Laredo FY 1999-2000 Airport Budget to recognize
additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal
Aviation Administration being grant project no. 3-48-0136-26-00 in the amount
of $849,845.00 for the purpose of rehabilitating a portion of Runway 17R/35L
and for the purpose of acquiring a parcel of land to expand the Runway
Protection Zone to Runway 35L and appropriating said grant revenue and local
match to the appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager
to implement said budget amendment.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-209.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-224 An ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY
1999-2000 budget by
transferring the revised budget from General Fund Improvements
Other than Building in the amount of
$125,000.00 and Professional Services in the amount of $9,784.00 to the Capital
Improvement Fund for a total of
$134,784.00 for the Skate Board Park in order for monies not to lapse and
completion of project to continue and be finalized in FY 2000-2001 and authorizing
the City Manager to implement said Budget.
(AS AMENDED) (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-224.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-225 An ordinance closing
as a public easement that section of the 1900 block
of Poggenpohl Street between Sta. Rita and Vidaurri Avenues situated in
the Western Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas and
providing for an effective date. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-225.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
18. 2000-R-128 A resolution declaring the City of Laredo's
intent to sponsor the
construction of a Fifth International non-commercial, bridge
crossing joining the Mexican State of Tamaulipas and the State of Texas and
located in the City of Laredo for the purpose of meeting the needs of the area's growing populous;
instructing the City Manager to notify all applicable levels of government in
Mexico and the United States of the
City's intent and to formalize discussions necessary in moving this
project forward; and further directing the City Manager to receive proposals to
undertake preliminary studies in regard to location, design, financial
feasibility, and the social and environmental impact of the project.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-128.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. 2000-R-131 A resolution accepting a grant from the
Texas Department of Health in the
amount of $17,139.00 for the Hepatitis C Study Project of the City
of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2000, through
August 31, 2001.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-131.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. 2000-R-132 A resolution accepting a grant from the
Texas Department of Health in the
amount of $2,654,500.00 to operate the Women, Infants, and
Children (WIC) Program, and issue approximately $13,000,000.00 in federal food
vouchers by the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
October 1, 2000, through September 30, 2001.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-132.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. 2000-R-133 A resolution resolving that the City Manager
is authorized to execute a
Subordination, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement between
the City of Laredo, as Lessor, L.A. Ventures, Inc., as Lessee and International
Bank of Commerce as Lender thereby encumbering the leasehold interest in the
amount of $427,520.00 regarding Lot No. 9 authorized by Ordinance No. 95-O-252
dated February 20, 1996 to finance the construction of a 22,550 square foot air
cargo facility. The subject property is
located in Block No. 1 at the Laredo International Airpark Subdivision at the
Laredo International Airport.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-133.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. 2000-R-134 A resolution resolving that the City Manager
is authorized to execute a
Subordination, Non-Distrubance and Attornment Agreement between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, L.A.
Venture, Inc., as Lessee and International Bank of Commerce as Lender thereby
encumbering the leasehold interest in the amount of $415,000.00 regarding Lot
No. 10 authorized by Ordinance No. 99-O-176 dated June 28, 1999 to finance the
construction of a 22,500 square foot air cargo facility. The subject property is located in Block No.
1 at the Laredo International Airpark Subdivision at the Laredo International
Airport.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-134.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. 2000-R-135 A resolution to adopt a new health benefits
rate structure by increasing all
medical contribution amounts by ten percent (10%) for the City of
Laredo's Medical Plan and providing for an effective date of October 1, 2000.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-135.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. 2000-R-138 Opposing the designation of San Antonio
International Airport for
Customs processing of certain private aircraft arriving in the
United States and urging other border communities to oppose SEC. 1433 of
H. R. 4868 which enables the
designation and authorizing the City Manager to provide a copy of Resolution
No. 99-R-95 to the Honorable U. S. Senator Phil Gramm, the Honorable U. S.
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and to the Honorable U. S. Congressman Henry
Bonilla.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-138.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
25. Consideration to
refund property tax to the following taxpayers and companies:
a. A refund in the amount
of $762.27 for Daniel L. Bell due to an overpayment
made by Harbor
Financial Mortgage Corp.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0
Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to
approve monthly adjustments to the tax roll.
The amount to be
adjusted for the month of August 2000, which represents an
decrease in levy, is $10,628.66. These adjustments are determined by the Webb
County Appraisal District and by Court Orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Consideration to award
a contract to the sole source supplier HTE, Inc., of Lake Mary,
Fla., in the amount of $44,328.00 for the purchase of software for
centralizing database for parking ticket inquiries and reconciling the Parking
Division Account Receivable. Funding is
available in the Parking Meter Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Consideration to award
contract number FY00-142, to the LOW BIDDER, Air Weld
Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $18,960.79, for the
installation of two, ADA compliant rest rooms at the Civic Center
auditorium. Funding is available in the
Civic Center Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Consideration to award
contract number FY00-143, to the LOW BIDDER, Rush Truck
Center - San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $50,856.00, for the
purchase of one, three ton truck with service body for the Utilities Department
- Wastewater Treatment Division.
Funding for the crew cab truck are available in the Utilities Department
Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration to award
annual contract number 00-144, to the SOLE BIDDER, Aldo T.
Rodriguez DBA Laredo Electric Motor Service, Laredo, Texas, in the
estimated amount of $60,000.00, for providing electric motor repair services
for the Utilities Department. The bid
pricing will be firm during the contract period and all repair work will be
secured on an as needed basis. Funding
is available in the Utilities Department Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Consideration to award
contract number FY00-145, to the LOW BIDDER, Playland
Adventures, Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $38,800.00, for the
purchase and installation of two play structures. One play structure will be installed in the Father McNaboe Park
and the other at Santa Maria Ave. and Circle Drive play area. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvement Project Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration to award
contract number FY00-146, to the LOWEST BIDDER
MEETING SPECIFICATIONS, Easy Drive Inc., San Antonio, Texas, in
the amount of $22,591.77, for the purchase of surveying equipment and software
for the Engineering Department. The
contract price includes three days of training. Funding is available from Public Property Finance Contractual
Obligation (PPFCO) series 2000 proceeds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Consideration to award
contract number FY00-147, to the SOLE BIDDER, Kinloch
Equipment & Supply, Pasadena, Texas, in the amount of
$19,279.00, for the purchase of two, skid mounted, vacuum litter collection
equipment for the Public Works Department.
One will be used for the downtown area and the other will be used at the
City landfill. Funding is available in
the Public Works Department - Capital Outlay Budget and the Solid Waste Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Consideration to award
a professional services contract to Freese and Nichols, Inc.,
Fort Worth, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $75,709.50 to
provide but not limited to engineering services to include design(s), surveys,
preparation of plans and specifications, geotechnical testing, cost estimates,
bid documents, and bid tabulation for the rehabilitating of Runway 17R/35L to
include declared distances for Runway 17R/35L.
Funding for the engineering services is available in Airport Project
Engineering Fees, Account No. 242-3650-583-5512. The Federal Aviation Administration has issued and Airport
Improvement Program Grant Project No. 3-48-0136-26-00 to fund this project
during FY 2000.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to opt out of the Federal Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), effective October 1, 2000 through September 30,
2001, as a result of the City currently meeting or exceeding minimum HIPAA
benefit provisions.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to amend the contract with Mercy Health
Plans of Laredo increasing the cost from $225,000.00 to
$228,000.00 for the second year of the two-year Children's Health Insurance
Project of the City of Laredo Health Department beginning on September 1, 1999,
through August 31, 2000.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to execute professional services renewal
contracts for one year with health care providers to provide
public health services to clients of the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning September 1, 2000, through August 31, 2001.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Consideration for
approval of final change order no. 6 a net decrease of $39,198.00 for
the balance of quantities actually constructed in place,
acceptance of the Santa Maria Reconstruction Project and approval of final
payment in the amount of $231,464.31 to Pete Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo,
Texas. Final contact amount is
$2,793,948.95. Funding is available in
the 1998 CO Issue Santa Maria Reconstruction.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration for
approval of the selection of consultant Rosin Group, Inc., Laredo,
Texas, for the Centro Iturbide Project and authorization to
negotiate a professional services contract.
Funding is available in the Community Development 25th Action Year.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Consideration to award
a twelve (12) month Service Agreement Contract with
Transcore, Harrisburg, PA for an amount not to exceed $126,000.00
for a Service Center Liaison to be responsible for the training, implementation
and operation of the Customer Service Center which will have a direct impact on
the successful implementation of our WIM/AVI System.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Consideration to
approve a professional services contract with Estrada Hinojosa &
Company, Inc., Dallas, Texas, in connection with the negotiation
of various agreements related to the Laredo Entertainment Center. Funding for these services will be available
in the Proposed Sales Tax Revenue Bond closing. These service are exclusive of customary financial advisory
services.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Consideration to
approve a professional services contract with McCall, Parkhurst &
Horton L.L.P., Dallas, Texas, in connection with the negotiation
of various agreements related to the Laredo Entertainment Center. Funding for these services will be available
in the Proposed Sales Tax Revenue Bond
closing.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORT
43. Status report on the
Laredo Entertainment Center Project negotiations with Arena
Ventures.
Larry
Dovalina, Acting City Manager, reported that they met with city staff and he
made reference to the two motions that were approved tonight as it relates to
the hiring of bond counsel who will assist in the negotiations process for the
proposed arena. There was also an item
on enhancing the contract of the financial advisor and hiring him specifically
for these negotiations in connection with the proposed arena. The City Manager’s Office is in the process
of asking people to submit proposals to the City of Laredo for the purpose of
advising the city as arena consultants.
In addition, the first meeting of the CLEC Advisory Committee will
be held this coming Wednesday, September 20, 2000. Arena Ventures representatives are recommending the architectural
firm of Lockwood, Andrews, and Newnam, and they will be making a presentation
to the committee. This will be a joint
meeting of the CLEC Advisory Committee and the Architectural/Engineering Group
Committee in order to allow Cm. Jose A. Valdez, Jr. to review the architectural
presentation to be made on Wednesday.
44. Presentation on
proposed programs related to water utility billing to assist customers on
a fixed income, with
possible action.
Fernando
Roman, Utilities Director, reported that he has reviewed two proposals for
consideration. The first plan he
referred to as the “equal payment plan” would allow a homeowner to get on an
equal payment plan proportionate to their financial needs. He commented that their software provider
noted that this billing software was very easy to install. The second plan he referred to as the
“donations fund plan”. He explained
that it provides the 45,000 customers an opportunity, based on some type of
legend, to donate any dollar amount desired.
These monies would be deposited in a designated city fund that could
disburse awards to customers in need.
Some of the aspects that must be resolved prior to implementing this
particular plan include: identifying
the criteria necessary to access this fund; designating who will be establishing
account limits as to how many times a customer can access this fund;
determining whether this is merely a seasonal fund or whether it will be
utilized year round. Mr. Roman stated
he would provide an update to City Council at the meeting of October 2, 2000.
XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive
session at any time during this public meeting, when it deems it necessary to
consult privately with its attorney about any item upon this agenda, pursuant
to the provisions of Section 551.071(2) of the Texas Government Code.
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. TIME: 9:15 p.m.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01
through 28 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council
Meeting held on the 18th day of September, 2000.
_____________________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary