CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2006-R-21

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

NOVEMBER 6, 2006

5:30 P.M.

 

I.          CALL TO ORDER

 

            With a quorum present, Mayor Raul G.  Salinas called the meeting to order.

 

II.        PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

            Mayor Raul G.  Salinas led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

III.       ROLL CALL

 

            In attendance:

 

            Raul G.  Salinas,                                                                       Mayor

            Mike Garza,                                                                             Council Member, District I

            Hector Garcia,                                                                          Council Member, District II

            Michael Landeck,                                                                     Council Member, District III

            Johnny Amaya,                                                                         Council Member, District IV

            Johnny Rendon,                                                                        Council Member, District V

            Gene Belmares,                                                                        Council Member, District VI

            Juan Chavez,                                                                            Council Member, District VII

            Juan Ramirez,                                                                           Mayor Pro Tem, District VIII

            Gustavo Guevara, Jr.,                                                               City Secretary

            Cynthia Collazo,                                                                       Acting City Manager

            Rafael Garcia,                                                                           Assistant City Manager

            Horacio De Leon,                                                                     Assistant City Manager

            Valeria Acevedo,                                                                      Acting City Attorney

 

IV.       MINUTES

            Approval of the minutes of July 19, 2006July 24, 2006 and July 31, 2006.

 

            Motion to approve.

 

            Moved:    Cm.  Amaya

            Second:  Cm.  Rendon

            For:     8                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0 

 

 

 

 

 

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

            Announcements

 

            a.  Presentation by Jessie and Gary Jacobs of $5,000.00 to the City of Laredo Commission            for Women for continued year-long programming.

 

                 Motion to withdraw this item.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            Invitations

 

            a.  Announcing the "Feast of Sharing" by Bertha Mena, FOS Chair, and Arnold Davis, Co-            Chair, of HEB scheduled for Sunday, November 19, 2006, at the Laredo Civic Center                              from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm.    

 

Bertha Mena, Feast of Sharing Chair, and Arnold Davis, Co-Chair, announced that HEB

Grocery is celebrating their 18th annual “Feast of Sharing” which was established to

combat hunger and malnutrition throughout Texas and Mexico.  She explained that the

feast is a free community event with a complete Thanksgiving Dinner and entertainment. 

 

             Recognitions

 

            a.  Honoring and witnessing Angela Achartea’s noble contribution of her hair for the benefit             and use of cancer patients.

 

Angela Achartea was presented with the La Estrella Award for her unselfish act in    cutting her hair for the benefit of those afflicted with cancer and recognizing her for shining like the brilliant star and giving us all inspiration to go out and give a little of ourselves. 

 

            Communiqués

 

Cm.  Garza said that he spoke to students at Bonnie Garcia Elementary School about city government.  He continued to say that he visited Kawis Elementary where he read to students.  He advised that he had met with the Acting City Manager regarding the recent administrative transition and he feels that the City of Laredo is ready to move forward with a new City Manager.  He said that he has great confidence in the Council’s administrative decisions.

 

Cm.  Garcia read a poem written by a thirteen year old regarding diabetes.  He also congratulated Dennis Nixon for being inducted in the 2006 Texas Business Hall of Fame. He thanked Jose Flores, Airport Director, for submitting the Noise Abatement Report in District III.  He congratulated all the students that are participating in local athletics.  He specifically mentioned Ivan Rodriguez from Alexander High School for representing the City of Laredo at state in the Cross Country.  Finally, he thanked the City of Laredo for the overwhelming response and support at the ALS Walk held at TAMIU.  He said that all of the monies raised in the event will stay in the City of Laredo to assist less fortunate families that are afflicted with ALS

 

Cm. Landeck announced that Colonia Hermosa, a colonia in District III, would be receiving water and sewer services from the City of Laredo.  He noted that the residents of the colonia are extremely excited about the services which will be provided in eight months.

 

Cm.  Amaya thanked the sponsors and his Special Projects Committee for assisting in a steak plate sale held to provide turkeys and toys for children for the Christmas season. 

 

Cm.  Rendon encouraged the viewing public to vote in the Congressional race. 

 

Cm. Belmares echoed Cm.  Garcia on congratulating Dennis Nixon for being inducted to the 2006 Texas Business Hall of Fame.  He said that Dennis Nixon is an asset to the City of Laredo and to the community of Laredo.  He also congratulated the Parks and Recreation Department, parents, and students for completing another year in flag football.  Finally, he expressed the importance of everyone voting in the current Congressional election. 

 

Cm. Chavez thanked Muller Elementary school for inviting him to the Red Ribbon Week. 

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez thanked everyone that participated in the clean up day at Seven Flags Park.  

 

Mayor Salinas made note that he has recently visited several schools to kick off their Red Ribbon “Say No to Drug Campaigns”.  He saluted Laredo Independent School District and United Independent School District for doing such an excellent job with the students of Laredo. He announced that he had met with Govenor Lazaro Cardenas Patel from Morelia, Mexico to talk about the Lazaro Cardenas Project.   He said that there is a lot of exciting discussions taking place between the City of Laredo and individuals from Mexico.  He advised that he is totally committed to bringing better paying jobs to the City of Laredo.  He commended the attitude of the staff for the City of Laredo.  He asked all department heads to be good examples for their employees to follow.  Finally, he mentioned that he would be asking everyone to join in by making Laredo a safer place to live.  He said that crime fighting is a unified effort from all entities and citizens. 

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

 

            a.  Creating and naming members to a Blue Ribbon Committee for International Trade                    comprised of representatives from both sides of the border. 

 

                 Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager, as Staff Liaison

 

                 1)  Eduardo Garza, UniTrade

                 2)  Dr. Hector Farias

                 3)  Mr. Pablo Garza

                 4)  Glafiro Salinas

                 5)  Salvador Rosas

                 6)  Hemergildo Gonzalez

                 7)  Carlos Garcia

                 8)  Jose A. Valdez

                 9)  Frank Quezada

                 10)  Federico Zuniga

           

                 Felix Canales as an alternate.

 

                 Motion to approve with the following amendments.  Carlos Garcia will replace Felix            

                 Canales and Frank Quesada and Federico Zuniga will be included.  Felix Canales will be

                 an alternate.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            b.  Creating and naming the members to a Blue Ribbon Committee to address local public              health issues comprised of medical professionals and concerned citizens.

 

                 Dr. Hector Gonzalez, Health Department Director, as Staff Liaison

 

                 1) Dr. Ralph Nimchan

                 2) Dr. Arturo Garza-Gongora

                 3) Dr. Gladys Keene

                 4) Elmo Lopez, CEO, Doctor’s Hospital

                 5) Abe Martinez, CEO, Laredo Medical Center

                 6) Gilda Villarreal, RN, Doctor’s Hospital

                 7) Dr. Susan Walker, TAMIU

                 8) Dr. Reynaldo Godines, Alternate

 

                 Motion to approve.

                       

                 Moved:  Cm.  Rendon

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            c.  Appointment by Council Member Johnny Amaya of Mireya Menchaca to the Parks and            Recreation Advisory Committee.

 

                Motion to approve with correction of Menchaca to Mancha.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Amaya

                 Second:  Cm.  Rendon

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0 

 

VII.     PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

            1.  Individual public hearing for the voluntary annexation of seven (7) tracts of land (Tract                1: U.I.S.D. Tract– 33.19 acres, more or less; Tract 2: Tanquecitos Tract– 52.94 acres,                 more or less; Tract 3: Alarcon Tract – 1.85 acres, more or less; Tract 4: Hurd Tract –                             21.09 acres, more or less; Tract 5: 4 V Holding Tract – 44.53 acres, more or less; Tract              6: Key Energy Tract – 2.45 acres, more or less; Tract 7: Gutierrez/Izaguirre Tract – 7.71              acres, more or less), for a total of 163.76 acres, more or less, as described in the attached         tract summaries, as required by Section 43.063 of the Texas Local Government Code.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 1.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 2.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 3.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  8

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 4.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 5.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 6.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing for Tract # 7.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            2.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the             City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a nationalization of vehicles        enterprise on Lots 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 and 9, Block 605, Western Division, located at 2619 San            Dario Avenue.  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the                             Conditional Use Permit. (District IV)

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of the seller and buyer, explained that the said property is large enough for the property owners to establish a nationalization business.  He noted that the owners have agreed to several amendments that should assure success of the business.  He reminded Council Members that Laredo is the “Gateway to Mexico” and the nationalization business is a predominate business because of our access to Mexico

 

Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce and revisit in six months to make sure that the applicant is complying with all of the conditions. 

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

                 Second:  Cm.  Garcia

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Amaya

 

            3.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

                 City of Laredo by rezoning 4.91 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in                                attached Exhibit “A”, located on the south side of Lomas del Sur Boulevard and west of            future Ejido Avenue, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-1 (Community Business                           District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone                       change.  (District I)

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Garza

 

            4.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the             City of Laredo by rezoning of 6.15 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in                  attached Exhibit “A”, located south of Lomas del Sur Boulevard and west of future Ejido                Avenue, from AG (Agricultural District) and R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area                            District ) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District).  The Planning and Zoning                     Commission recommended approval of the zone change.  (District I)

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Garza

 

            5.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 24, Article IV, effects of               districts and general regulations section 24-63.2: permitted land uses of the Laredo Land                Development Code, to designate an adult day care center as an allowable land use in a                  B-4. (Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.  (All) 

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

            6.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 24, Article IV,                                              Supplementary Zoning District Regulations Section 24-65.14: B-4 Highway Commercial           District, Paragraph (16) Amusement Redemption Machine Establishment Provisions,                      Subparagraphs (a) (4) and (c), of The Laredo Land Development Code, by deleting                       Subparagraphs (a)(4), which establishes location requirements of one thousand (1000) c               feet of another Amusement Redemption Machine Facility, and amending (c), which                       establishes measurement  criteria for Amusement Redemption Machine Establishment,             providing for publication and effective date. 

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ron Whitehawk spoke to offer some suggestions regarding the amusement redemption machines including amending the 200 sq. ft. requirement.   

 

                 Motion to change to distance requirement for redemption machines to 200 feet.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

                 Second:  Cm. Rendon

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

               

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce as amended.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

            7.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance providing for the adoption of a limitation on                the total amount of taxes that may be imposed by the City on the residence homestead of                a disabled individual or an individual 65 years of age or older pursuant to Section 1-b                        (h), Article VIII, Texas Constitution and in accordance with Subtitle C, Chapter 11,                              Section 11.261 of the Texas Property Tax Code.  Once approved the City of Laredo may             not repeal or rescind this limitation.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

            8.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute                     Interlocal Cooperation Contract with the Texas Department of Public Safety and                            adopting Chapter 706 Transportation Code “Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to                Appear” and authorizing the collection of $30.00 administrative fee per case reported as                 per Section 706.006 Transportation Code, and amending the Code of Ordinances,                              Chapter 20, Section 20-37, by adding Subsection (k) and providing for severability,                       publication and an effective date.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Rendon

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

            9.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year                  2006-2007 General Fund by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of      $144,235.00 for the lease purchase financing of necessary cardio and strength equipment            for the recreation centers and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget                         amendment.  Funding for the lease will be contingent on funding availability for the                        current and subsequent three fiscal years.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Carlos Blanco asked if the $144,235.00 would be distributed to all the recreational centers.   He also asked if the City of Laredo has defibulators at the Recreational Centers. 

 

Mike Pescador, said that the funds for equipment are for five recreational centers.  He also said that the machines will be for strengthening purposes only. 

 

                 Motion to close the pubic hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

            10.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year                                 2006-2007 Waterworks Fund by drawing down $100,000.00 from the Waterworks                              opening balance and appropriating the $100,000.00 to Utility Billing Division.  These                 funds will be used for the acquisition of meter reading hardware/software equipment.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            11.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year                                 2006-2007 Airport Construction Fund revenues and expenditures by recognizing the                               Texas Department of Transportation Routine Airfield Maintenance Program (RAMP)                Grant for $50,000.00, transferring out $20,000.00 from the Airport Operating Fund and                  increasing the RAMP Grant expense account by $40,000.00.  Funding is available in                        Airport Construction Fund 2007 RAMP Grant, providing for an effective date.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            12.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept                      payment in the amount of $30,939.28 on behalf of KLLM, Inc, as settlement arising                        from accident at US 59 and Springfield that resulted in damages to City property and to                amend the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007 Traffic Signal Budget by appropriating                      revenues and expenditures for the purchase of replacement equipment and materials                      utilized at this intersection and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Rendon

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            13.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year                                 2006-2007 annual budget by reducing the amount by $43,980.00 to reflect the actual                              amount of $56,917.00 from the South Texas Development Council for the HIV/AIDS               Health and Social Services Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for a seven                   (7) month term beginning September 1, 2006 through March 31, 2007.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            14.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into                  agreement with the Drug Enforcement Administration in the amount of $15,573.00 and        amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Annual Budget by $429.00.  The                 agreement’s purpose is to reimburse costs for overtime incurred by the Laredo Police                   Department in providing resources for OCDETF (Organized Drug Enforcement Task            Forces).  The term of this agreement is for October 1, 2006 through September 30,                    2007.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            15.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year                                 2006-2007 Contractual Obligation Fund by appropriating $30,000.00 from a trade-in of           fire equipment and appropriating the same increase funding for Fire Department                                equipment.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            16.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo,                 Texas, Public Property Finance Contractual Obligations, Series 2006, in the principal           amount of $3,680,000, for the purchase of police department fire suppression system                           equipment for computer/dispatch radio room, police cars, cameras and radios for patrol                 cars, police cameras, police weapons, computer hardware and related software for fire                 department, fire trucks, trailers, cars, vans, ambulances for EMS, heart monitors for                          generators, municipal department trucks, vehicles, backhoes, street sweepers, trailers,                   street striper equipment, signal solar powered message display, movable filing system,            computer related hardware and software for city departments and animal cages;                                authorizing amendment to City’s budget to appropriate such proceeds for purposes                            authorized herein; approving sale of contractual obligations; authorizing the execution                   of a private placement letter; and ordaining other matters relating to the subject.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There is no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            17.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Code of                        Ordinance as follows: Chapter 2, Article II, Division 3, Section 2-61(a) Military Leave,                    Subsection (3) to include those employees that have been called for active duty locally          for the purpose of the border/security operations also known as Operation Jump Start.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Dan Migura, Human Resources Department, advised that the prior Council instructed for staff to do a base salary differential on military leave.   

 

Cm.  Garza expressed his interests into amending the pay for individuals who serve overseas or in combat. 

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            18.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 14, Garbage, Trash and                Refuse Article II, rates for garbage and refuse collection and landfill operations,                                Section 14-9, Rates, of the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances by changing Section (a)                   to increase the garbage collection fee to nine dollars ($9.00) per month as passed by                            motion of City Council at the August 8th budget workshops, and to change section (3)          to add inter-local agreements and to stipulate a fee of thirty dollars ($30.00) per ton for               residential garbage; to change Section (I) to modify the landfill days of operation to be                closed Sundays; and to provide for effective date sixty (60) days from date of                                   introduction and publication one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in                          Laredo, Texas.

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Oscar Medina, Solid Waste Director, explained that the thirty dollars is for cities or counties outside of the City.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                   For:     7                                        Against:  1                                            Abstain:  0

                                                                        Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

VIII.    INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

 

            19.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Estoppel Certificate and Lessor’s Approval            of Assignment of the lease agreement approved by Ordinance No. 2001-O-042 dated                    February 20, 2001, as amended between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and FedLaredo                  Partnership, L.P., a Pennsylvania limited partnership.  Said lease agreement is to D & P                    Enterprises, a Nevada Corporation, as Assignee, for approximately 2.82 acres at the                        Laredo International Airport; providing for an effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            20.  Designating as a one-way eastbound that three (3) block section of Zaragoza Street,                                 between Convent Avenue and Santa Maria Avenue; as a one-way southbound that two             (2) block section of Santa Maria Avenue, between Grant Street and Water Street; as a                    one-way northbound that two (2) block section of Convent Avenue, between Water                               Street and Grant Street; and as a one way westbound that six (6) block section of Grant                   Street, between Convent Avenue and Santa Cleotilde Avenue, providing for the                               installation of appropriate signs to indicate one-way traffic in the designated directions           and providing for publication and effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            21.  Amending Ordinance No. 2002-O-265 by authorizing the City Manager to execute a                              site ground lease agreement addendum by and between the City of Laredo, a municipal             corporation and San Antonio MTA, L.P. D/B/A Verizon wireless, to that certain                              ground lease dated October 21, 2002, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a                      part hereof, to increase the overall ground space area at 8711 McPherson by 297 square            feet to approximately 0.015 acres as described on the attached Exhibit B-1; and

 

                   1.  Annual rent will be increased by $7,500.00 per annum prorated to coincide with the                  anniversary of the lease commencement date and on the first day of each year of the                  lease commencement anniversary date thereafter.

                   2.  All other terms and conditions of the lease remain in full force and effect.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            22.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey              two easements to AEP Texas Central Company to provide electrical power to the El                        Portal Plaza and to the plaza entrance monument.  Said easements being:

                   (1)  a 144 square foot tract of land out of Block 08-B, Western Division, City of                             Laredo, Webb County, Texas; as described by Metes and Bounds and Survey                                     attached as Exhibits A and B, and

                   (2)  a 1,180 square foot tract of land out of Block 08-B, Western Division, City of                                       Laredo, Webb County, Texas; as described by Metes and Bounds and Survey                                     attached as Exhibits C and D; and providing for an effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

IX.       FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 

 

            Motion to waive the final readings of Ordinances # 2006-O-258, # 2006-O-259, # 2006-O-            260, # 2006-O-261, # 2006-O-262, # 2006-O-263, # 2006-O-263, # 2006-O-264, # 2006-O-        265, # 2006-O-266, # 2006-O-267, # 2006-O-268, # 2006-O-269, # 2006-O-270, # 2006-O-        271, # 2006-O-272, # 2006-O-273, # 2006-O-274, # 2006-O-275, # 2006-O-276, # 2006-O-        277, # 2006-O-278, # 2006-O-279, # 2006-O-280, and # 2006-O-281. 

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            23.  2006-O-258  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning                                  4.37 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit                                   “A”, located north of Lomas del Sur Boulevard and East of Business 83,                                   from AG (Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community Business District).                                 The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the                                           zone change.  (District I)

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-258.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:      8                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2006-O-259  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

                                         Lot 5, Block 493, Eastern Division, located at 4404 Marcella Avenue,                                                  from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial                                            District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval                                    of the zone change.  (District V) 

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-259.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                                    Cm.  Rendon

                                         

                   2006-O-260  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

                                         8.15 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit                                   "A", located south of Hwy 359 East of Rita Road, from R-1 (Single                                           Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).  The                                      Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone                                             change.  (District II)

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-260.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:      8                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2006-O-261  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning                                  4.72 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit                                   “A”, located on the east side future Ejido Avenue north of Lomas del Sur                                  Blvd., from R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District) to B-1 (Limited                                        Commercial District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission                                                          recommended approval of the zone change.   (District I)

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-261.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:      8                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                          

                   2006-O-262  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

                                         Lot 3, Block 20, Calton Gardens Subdivision, located at 5009 San                                           Francisco Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited                                  Commercial District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission                                                                recommended denial of the zone change.  (District                                                                     V)     

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-262.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:      8                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0