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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2007-R-04 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 FEBRUARY 20, 2007 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 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 Horacio De Leon, Assistant City Manager Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager Valeria Acevedo, City Attorney, Interim
Motion to excuse Cm. Garcia.
Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Garza For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes of September 5, 2006, September 18, 2006, and October 6, 2006.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Recognitions
a. Recognition of Wayo and Jesus Ruiz, from Ruiz Homes Inc., for their continued support of education and their promotion of goodwill for the community.
Mayor Salinas presented Wayo and Jesus Ruiz with a 7 Flags Certificate of Recognition.
b. Recognition of the City Departments that have recycled the most materials in October, November, and December 2006.
Ms. Soñia Garza, Recycling Coordinator, reported that the following Departments recycled the most materials for November 2006; for the Small Department Category, the Environmental Department collected 286 lbs.; for the Medium Department category the Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau collected 392 lbs.; and for the Large Department Category, City Hall collected 1,820 lbs. She also reported that for December 2006 the following Departments recycled the most materials for December 2006; for the Small Department Category, the Environmental Department collected 153 lbs.; for the Medium Department Category, Public Works collected 440 lbs.; for the Large Department Category, City Hall collected 2,390 lbs.
c. Recognition of Adelfa Flores, of the Bridge Department, on her selection as February 2007 employee of the month.
Mario Maldonado, Bridge Director, stated that Adelfa Flores was hired in 1998 as a Bridge Collector and a year later she was promoted to Cashier Teller in 1999. In 2001 she was again promoted to Bridge Shift Supervisor. He stated that she is responsible for providing customer service centers for the bridge system and was instrumental in implementing and marketing the Laredo Trade Tag in 2000. He also stated that she was involved in the opening of El Portal where she implemented a new toll collection system for pedestrians. He reported that Ms. Flores was chosen for the February 2007 Employee of the Month because of her hard work to help the less fortunate in our community. She assisted staff in fundraising for the American Cancer Society and the Sacred Heart Children’s Home.
Communiqués
a. Update via telephone conference by the City’s legislative consultants regarding federal and state legislative sessions.
Andrea McWilliam, State Lobbyist, reported that in a meeting recently held with the Governor’s Office, because of our trade corridor status and the economic issues affecting Laredo, that perhaps a TXDOT District that belonged to Laredo might benefit the City in several ways. The Governor’s Office ascertained that it would take an administrative change at TXDOT rather than a legislative change and they offered to facilitate a meeting with TXDOT to get the District for Laredo. She also reported that there are currently thirteen issues on the Legislative Agenda. She reported that there is a Change of Venue Project Bill to allow Laredo to conduct an election to change the description of a venue project which was filed by Representative Ryan Guillen. She also mentioned that she has been working, on any type of bill that could potentially erode the City’s home-ruled city status. Furthermore, she stated that the bill that they requested in reference to the Texas Municipal Retirement System that allows retirees to return to work without a penalty has been set for a hearing this Thursday at 10:30 am in Austin, Texas. In addition, she stated that the Texas Recreation Park Account Grant Program, an omnibus bill, filed is unprecedented. She stated that this bill sponsored by State Representative Ryan Guillen and State Representative Richard Raymund has picked up 120 authors and it will likely get some funding. Finally, she reported that she is currently tracking any bills that may filed that might take away Laredo’s Municipal Authority as it relates to right of way and pipeline owners.
Jerry Leter, Federal Consultant, reported that the most important events that have happened in these first six weeks have been the committee assignments that our Members of Congress were given. He also reported that there were no changes in the Senate only in the House of Representatives. He informed City Council that Representative Henry Cuellar was not only appointed to the Homeland Security Committee, but was also named Chair of the Police and First Responder Readiness Sub- Committee. He added that it is great because many of the Legislative agendas will go to the Homeland Security Committee. In addition he commented that another important assignment was that Congressman Ciro Rodriguez was given a seat on the Appropriations Committee. He reported that a Continuing Resolution was done to fund the government for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2007. The 2007 Continuing Resolution was changed and it was stripped of all earmarks, therefore, the City needs to be ready with projects because there are undedicated dollars. He explained that when the agencies are visited in March, there should be a project in mind to pursue this money. He also stated the earmarks from previous legislation were in the Transportation Bill and will they will be continued to be funded. He commented that the biggest impact that can be made in Laredo is it’s eligibility through various funding formulas. Lastly, he he informed the City Council that neither the money nor the will appears to be present to do the wall, but there is still the fear that there may be litigation.
Cm. Garza commented on a tragic accident that happened near San Antonio involving the Cadena family and their three children that were hurt. He mentioned that several Council Members and Mayor Raul Salinas have committed some funds to defray some of the costs incurred. He announced that Miss Soñia Farajo will be in charge of the fund if anyone would like to participate. He mentioned that housing is already being provided to them in San Antonio. In addition he reported that he was very appreciative that the Acting City Manger took the initiative to provide them with an item that will allow the City Council to start dialoguing the issue of the budget process. Lastly, he mentioned that he appreciated the Mayor for inspiring the students of Cigarroa High School to do well in the exams coming up since it is a very difficult time for the students. He commented that he spoke with Representative Ryan Guillen who is pushing to try to eliminate these type of tests.
Cm. Landeck added that the Council Members have committed themselves to $1,000.00 to help the Cadena family. He mentioned that he will have to leave the meeting for two hours to teach and asked if his items could be delayed till he returns.
Cm. Amaya informed the citizens of Laredo that there will be a re-opening of the Dr. Cecilia May Moreno Splash Skate Park which the City invested $250,000.000.
Cm. Rendon congratulated everyone involved in the Washington’s Birthday Celebration.
Cm. Belmares reiterated the sentiments of Cm. Rendon on the Washington’s Birthday Celebration. He invited everyone to the Border Olympics. He mentioned that this week there will be high school students competing in golf, tennis, softball and baseball. He also mentioned that following week there will be track and field with 20 high schools and 9 universities attending. He congratulated all the schools for all of the work they have done to prepare the children for the TASK test. He thanked State Representative Ryan Guillen, Senator Zaffirini and State Representative Richard Raymund for all the work they have done in filing our bills.
Cm. Chavez stated that he had completed one year in the City Council and thanked everyone for there words of wisdom. He mentioned that he is ready for another year.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez had not items to discuss.
Mayor Salinas congratulated the Washington’s Birthday Celebration for the tremendous job they do. He congratulated Lulac #7 and #12 for the great work they do to raise money for scholarships. He thanked Jay St. John for raising over $2,500.00 for the Cadena family. He saluted the students of Cigarroa High School. He asked for every one to pray for Mexico’s Congressman Horacio Garza Garza who was recently ambushed. He recognized Mexico’s President Felipe Calderon for extraditing 16 drug dealers to the United States. He also saluted the Police Department and those who serve in the counties, cities, state, and federal government who risk their lives to protect us.
Citizen comments
Citizens are required to fill out a witness card and identify themselves at the microphone. Comments should be relevant to City business and delivered in a professional manner. No derogatory remarks will be permitted. There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker.
Sgt. Armando Elizondo, President of the Laredo Police Officer’s Association, stated that they oppose the granting of accessibility to police communications to anyone other than a law enforcement agency. He stated that the safety of the officers are risk.
Rolando Herrera, read the following letter and asked the Council to Consider Exhibit “A”
We respectfully recommend the following for your consideration
1. The creation of a Veteran’s Center that can be used for a number of activities/services for area veterans including a Veteran’s Museum.
2. Location: Present location of Dr. Al King Baseball Field on 2900 Block of San Dario - 1 square block - Highly visible location by I-35.
3. Recommend Mayor form a committee for further study.
Presented by Mrs. Teresa Hernandez (Widow of the late Jesus Hernandez, active member of G.I. Formum.)
Tim Guttierrez from KGNS asked for the news media access to police emergency and public safety radio frequency scanners.
Osvaldo Corral, KLDO News Manager, also requested the same scanner use from the Police Department and Fire Department.
Eloy Vega from the Fire Department, commented that as first responders they assist in getting the right information out to the public.
David Gonzalez, driver for the Laredo Fire Department, stated that the media should be on a need to know basis and spoke against allowing the media access to the Fire Department radio.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
a. Abolishing the Metro Government Committee and creating and naming the appointees of Council Member Hector Garcia, Council Member Mike Garza, Council Member Johnny Rendon, Acting City Manager Cynthia Collazo, Finance Director Rosario Cabello, and Acting City Attorney Valeria Acevedo to the City-County Government Issues Committee.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Chavez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
b. Creating and naming the members to an Ad Hoc Civil Service Committee that will address the creation of a Civil Service Commission. This ad hoc committee will consist of the following members: Council Member Juan Chavez, Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck, and Council Member Hector Garcia; members representing the community Israel Reyna and Rene de la Viña; staff members will consist of the City Manager or designee and the Human Resources Director.
Motion to replace Council Member Hector Garcia with Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez and approve as amended.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Belmares For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
c. Appointment by Mayor Raul G. Salinas of Mike Treviño and Eladio Montalvo to the Blue Ribbon Health Issues Committee.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. A. Request by Mayor Raul G. Salinas
1. Presentation by Rio Grande International Study Group regarding secondary water source.
Jim Earhart and Jerry Pinzon, representing the Rio Grande International Studies Center, presented the following power point presentation which may be viewed at the City Secretary‘s Office:
Strategies for Managing Water in Laredo, Texas Lake Casa Blanca as A Supplementary Water Source Rio Grande International Study Center
Ÿ Piping Water from Dimmit County is not the best option for providing Laredo’s long term water needs. Ÿ Expensive 76- mile system of pump stations and pipelines Ÿ Piping ground water from Dimmit County will -Reduce local control of Laredo’s water future. -Double the cost of water to Laredo consumers. -Be risky venture in which no Laredo taxpayer money should be spent. (What guarantees are given for water quality and quantity?) Ÿ Bold steps must be taken to provide sufficient water of good quality for growth and development. Ÿ Laredo needs an emergency water source in the event of chemical spills and terrorist attacks. Ÿ Planning for a good water future is a complex process requiring much study and effort to determine the best use of available resources. Ÿ Better options exist than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These strategies, under local control, include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using proven conservation models in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. Ÿ Better options exist than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These options include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using proven conservation models in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. Ÿ The Rio Grande can provide municipal water indefinitely, making the purchase of water rights a good investment. Ÿ During the 1990’s drought the U.S. share of water stored in Amistad Reservoir was three times the quantity of water currently used by all Texas cities along the river. Ÿ More water rights will come onto the market as: -Urbanization of agricultural land occurs in the lower Rio Grande Valley. -Coastal cities depend more on desalinization. -Farmers develop more efficient agricultural irrigation practices. Ÿ Block the marketing of water. Ÿ Pumping water from the Rio Grande basin will reduce the flow of water in the Rio Grande. Ÿ Laredo should work with other municipalities to create legislation allowing cities along the Rio Grande to store unused water in Amistad Reservoir. Ÿ Better options exist than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These option include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using proven conservation models in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. Ÿ Laredo may be losing 15% to 25% of its treated water from broken water lines. That’s 6 to 10 million gallons of treated water wasted every day. Ÿ Lack of adequate water delivery infrastructure -Cost employee time, equipment, and materials in patching the existing system to stop leaks. -Cost in street repairs resulting from damage associated with the numerous water line breaks. -Creates inconvenience to automobile traffic. Ÿ Better option exist than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These options include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using proven conservation models in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. Ÿ No trucks. No trains. No warehouses. Ÿ Build a regional wastewater treatment plant to generate up to 20 MGD of reusable water. Ÿ Divert Zacate Creek storm water into Lake Casa Blanca to increased stored water and to provide flood control along McPherson road. Ÿ Better options exist than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These options include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using proven conservation models in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. Ÿ Implementing conservation measures such as Xeriscape and efficient plumbing can save 12,000,000 gallons of water per day. Ÿ Resources for Local Water Planning -Purchase Rio Grande water rights. -Develop incentives to promote consumer water conservation. -Upgrade water delivery infrastructure. -Construct a water recycling system by integrating Lake Casa Blanca with regional wastewater and potable water treatment plants. -Work for legislation allowing saved water to be banked in Amistad Reservoir. -Seek legislation blocking the transfer of water from the Rio Grande basin. Ÿ Water is More Important than Oil for the Future. Let Us Act Now! Ÿ Actions to Consider -Dredge Lake Casa Blanca to increase storage capacity. -Build a regional waste water treatment plant. -Transfer Zacate Creek Floodwaters to Lake Casa Blanca. -Modernize water delivery system. -Work with Texas Legislature. -Develop Water Conservation Plan. -Buy more water rights. Ÿ Lake Casa Blanca, has a surface area of 1,656 acres and drains 117 square miles with 20,000 acre-feet of Storage Capacity. Ÿ Actions to Consider -Dredge Lake Casa Blanca to increase storage capacity. -Build a regional waste water treatment plant. -Transfer Zacate Creek Floodwaters to Lake Casa Blanca. -Modernize water delivery system. -Work with Texas Legislature. -Develop Water Conservation Plan. Ÿ Estimated Pipeline Construction Costs in Williamson County, Texas -Georgetown and round Rock, Texas $41.2 million/28 miles of pipeline $1.5 million/mile -Jarrell and Schwertner, Texas $170 million/45 miles of pipeline $3.8 million/mile Ÿ Actions to Consider -Dredge Lake Casa Blanca to increase storage capacity. -Build a regional waste water treatment plant. -Transfer Zacate Creek Floodwaters to Lake Casa Blanca. -Modernize water delivery system. -Work with Texas Legislature. -Develop Water Conservation Plan. Ÿ Block the selling of water from the Rio Grande watershed. Ÿ Allow the banking of river water not used in a calendar year. Ÿ Study the feasibility of increasing Lake Casa Blanca’s storage capacity by dredging. Ÿ Actions to Consider -Dredge Lake Casa Blanca to increase storage capacity. -Build a regional waste water treatment plant. -Transfer Zacate Creek Floodwaters to Lake Casa Blanca. -Modernize water delivery system. -Work with Texas Legislature. -Develop Water Conservation Plan. Ÿ Implementing conservation measures such as Xeriscape and efficient plumbing could save 12,000,000 gallons per day. Ÿ Summary -Increase capacity of Lake Casa Blanca -Increase water flow into Lake Casa Blanca by combining watersheds and constructing a regional wastewater treatment plant. -Work for legislation to block the transfer of water from the Rio Grande watershed and to allow saved water to be banked in Amistad Reservoir. -Conserve water by modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system and developing a water conservation program similar to the San Antonio model. Ÿ Laredo needs and emergency water source for insurance against potential -Chemical spills from international trade. -Terrorist attacks. -Drought Ÿ Lake Amistad Supplies Water to Laredo Ÿ In the worst drought conditions since the construction of Amistad Reservoir, there was at least 2.5 times the annual quantity of water no used by Laredo and other Texas cities down river. Ÿ As urban growth replaces agriculture in the Lower Rio Grande Valley and as coastal cities convert to desalinization, water rights will become increasingly available for purchase. Laredo should be poised to aggressively purchase water rights as they become available. Ÿ Water is a highly complex issue. Ÿ Laredo’s readily available resources, under local control, should be maximized to meet the water needs of a growing city. Ÿ The same length of pipeline required to convey water to Laredo could take water to cities between San Antonio and Austin. Ÿ The Rio Grande is a local resource that is and will remain Laredo’s primary water supply. It should be managed accordingly. Ÿ 10 MGD x 365 = 3,650,000/325,851 = 11,201 acre-feet Ÿ 11,201 x 2300 = $25,762,300 Ÿ We believe, however, that much better options exist for solving Laredo’s water needs than bringing ground water from outside Webb County. These strategies, under local control, include: -Aggressively purchasing Rio Grande water rights. -Modernizing Laredo’s water delivery system. -Developing Lake Casa Blanca as a supplemental water source. -Using the San Antonio conservation model in aggressively reducing consumer water usage. -Piping water from wells owned by Webb County. Ÿ Laredo city government should give much more deliberation to this matter before committing Laredo water users to such a costly and uncertain project. Ÿ Is near water users. Ÿ Is economical. Ÿ Is locally controlled. Ÿ Does not reduce Laredo’s share of river water. Ÿ Has no adjacent warehouses nor rail or truck bridge crossings. Ÿ Purchasing water rights is an investment in the future. -In the current market the rights to an acre-foot of water sells for $2300. -Water right holders can sell excess water each year for $100 per acre-foot. Ÿ Lack of adequate water delivery infrastructure -Costs employee time, equipment, and materials in patching the existing system to stop leaks. -Costs in street repairs resulting from damage associated with the numerous water line breaks. -Creates inconvenience to automobile traffic. -May be a causal factor in the high incidence of Helicobacter pylori found in Laredo
B. Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia
1. Discussion with possible action on changing the Easter holiday from Friday to Monday.
Motion to change the Easter holiday from Friday to Monday.
Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Garza For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez
Cm. Landeck left at 7:06 and returned at 9:00pm.
C. Request by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck
1. Discussion with possible action on policies regarding over/under money collections by City employees especially in the Bridge Department including a policy comparative analysis across departments.
Cm. Landeck asked if it would be possible to go back to the $10.00 with the proviso that whatever is missing has to be paid back.
Motion that City employees will not be cited for over/under $10.00 but the City employee must repay the money adding that monies above $10.00 will require for the employee to enter into a disciplinary actions.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Garza For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1. Discussion with possible action on re-designating streets to be recycled in District VI.
Cm. Belmares stated that he would like to allocate resources to Shiloh east of University block on Alameda. He also stated that the other allocation would be for International, west of McPherson from one Chicane to Sandy Lane. He requested that a list be given to him by the Public Works Director, substituting those streets he feels would be acceptable. He stated that he would allocate money from the discretionary fund to cover those streets as well. He mentioned that the streets are wider than standard neighborhood streets and may require additional money.
2. Discussion with possible action on implementing a water distribution action plan for summer 2007.
Cm. Belmares stated that the reason he brought this item back was because this is more of a distribution issue and several improvements have been made to the system. He stated that he wants to be sure that the City is ready for the summer of 2007. He is concerns are the following: that redundancies are in place; that waterline scheduled will make the time frame; and the water tanks that are in construction will make the time frame as well: and lastly, the implementing of conservation.
Carl Schwing, Director of Utilities, informed City Council that the major improvement currently is the TAMIU tank which will be filled with water on the weekend of the 3rd of March 2007. In addition he reported that currently one water pump and two re-lift water pumps are out of service. He mentioned that estimates for this should come in by this week and he will come back to City Council to request funds for the repairs. He reported that four inspectors are being sent to the field for the enforcement of water conservation. He also reported that since 1983, the City of Austin, there has been no increase in water and has actually decreased over 25%. He stated that using the same percentage for the City , Laredo would save us $59,000,000.00. He informed City Council that he will come back with a final report.
Cm. Garza mentioned that he would like the City Manager to look into an incentive for citizens that would like to choose some conservation plans of there own xeriscaping or reducing their dependency on water and provide financial incentives or abatements to encourage conservation.
E. Request by Council Member Juan Chavez
1. Update on the San Gabriel Bridge, with possible action.
Alejandro Labrada, Public Works Director, reported that this project started back in 2006 and started as emergency project. He reported that the bridge was demolished, tested. He stated that after the plans were prepared, construction began. He reported that the project is to be finished in April 2007.
2. Discussion with possible action on setting new paving standards and provide funding for streets that run through warehouses and high truck traffic areas with possible action.
Cm. Chavez stated that ¾ of the warehouses are located in his district and because of this the streets need repair.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that he provided a report on the current requirements that will be introduced in an ordinance revision for paving. He mentioned that he has addressed the issues of streets in industrial areas and is recommending the use of concrete instead of asphalt in all intersections and strategic areas where there are many turning movements. He stated that when driveways are constructed in an industrial area, the street will be looked into because turning movement will tear up the asphalt.
Cm. Chavez recommended that Mr. Rivera present Council with a cost amount to pave all areas. He suggested to also go out for a bond and added that revenues can be taken from the World Trade and Colombia Bridge to fund the bond.
VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept the Universal Service Program grant from the Schools & Libraries Division/Universal Services Administrative Company/FCC in the amount of $117,532.00, which includes $11,647.00 in matching funds from General Fund, for multi-year E-Rate discounts and communication and technology infrastructure enhancements and to amend FY 06-07 Friends of the Library Fund Budget by appropriating said funds, and extending the contracts previously awarded to AT&T and CALENCE to July 7, 2008.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Chavez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease renewal with Securitas Security Services, USA, Inc., for approximately 120 square feet of office and an exclusive office entry lane of approximately 540 square feet at Bridge II. A. Lease term for one (1) year commencing April 1, 2007 and ending on March 31, 2008. B. Monthly rent shall be $2,500.00 for approximately 120 square feet of office space and an exclusive office entry lane of approximately 540 square feet at Bridge II. C. The lease may be terminated by either party with a thirty (30) day written notice.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 budgets for Risk Management fund by $325,182.00 and 2005 Certificate of Obligation (C.O.) fund by $352,874.00 by appropriating revenues and expenditures in both funds. Funds are provided by the Texas Municipal League (TML) for the replacement of the fire pumper truck involved in an accident and damaged beyond repair. Funds will be used to reimburse the 2005 C.O. for the purchase of a replacement fire pumper truck.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into agreement with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the amount of $15,573.00 and amend the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 City of Laredo Budget by $15,573.00. The agreement’s purpose is to reimburse the cost of overtime incurred by the Laredo Police Department in providing resources of OCDEFT (Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces). The term of this agreement is from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Ordinance 2006-O-175 to accept a supplemental grant in the amount of $67,000.00 from the Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority and to amend the City of Laredo’s Fiscal Year 2006-2007 annual budget in the amount of $67,000.00. This supplemental grant of $67,000.00 is 100% funded and at no cost to the City. The 2006-2007 Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority grant for the Laredo Autotheft Task Force will now total $413,000.00. The funding period for this grant is from September 1, 2006 through August 31, 2007.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007 annual budget by increasing revenues and expenditures of $18,579.00 in additional funds from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP); extending the grant period ending November 30, 2006 to March 31, 2007 and authorizing the City Manager to execute said contract.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance finding after reasonable notice and hearing, that AEP Texas Central Company’s existing rates are unreasonable; finding that AEP Texas Central Company’s requested revenue resulting from electric transmission and distribution rates and charges within the City should be reduced; determining just and reasonable rates; adopting recommendations of consultants; providing for recovery of rate case expenses; preserving regularity rights of the City; and ordaining other provisions related to the subject matter hereof.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 General Fund Budget by appropriating $2,500,000.00 from the opening balance for various one time expenditures and or capital improvements.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending section 12-81 [Purpose and Schedule] of Article IV [Fire Prevention Fees] of Chapter 12 [Fire Prevention & Protection] of the Code of Ordinances to revise and amend the fees for inspection services, and adding the new sprinkler installation, sprinkler system modification/remodel, new fire alarm system installation, fire alarm modification/remodel, fire alarm connected to sprinkler system, fire alarm panel replacement; and providing for effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 8, Block 809, Eastern Division, located at 1502 Wooster Street, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone change. District III
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ignacio Centeno, property owner, spoke in favor to build a residential home.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Chavez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Garcia
12. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 3, Block 1343, Eastern Division, located at 2315 Market Street, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business \ District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone change. District III
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Chavez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Landeck
13. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 8 through 18, Block 8, Del Mar Village Subdivision, located at 313 West Village Boulevard, from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of this zone change. District V
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Marina Cantu Ramirez spoke in favor of the zone change request.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Belmares For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Rendon
14. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 6, Block 199, Eastern Division, located at 3419 Springfield Avenue, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the zone change. District IV
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Margarito Escalon, applicant, stated that he is requesting the zone change for a tire shop.
Motion to close the public hearing, override the Planning and Zoning, and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Chavez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Amaya
15. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 12, Block 2, Tesoro Plaza Subdivision, located at 5217 Tesoro Plaza Drive, from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of the zone change. District VII
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Saturino Valdez requested the zone change for the purpose of constructing a parking lot.
Cm. Chavez stated that his concern is that Tesoro Plaza St. is very narrow. He emphasized that he feels that it is impossible to assign the area a B-4 because it will endanger the people of the area.
Motion to close the public hearing and concur with the Planning and Zoning to deny |