CITY OF LAREDO COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M97-R-09 MARCH 3, 1997
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr. called the meeting to
order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Saul N. Ramirez led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
SAUL N. RAMIREZ, JR., MAYOR
JOSE R. PEREZ, COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT I
LOUIS H. BRUNI, " , DISTRICT II
ALFONSO I. "PONCHO" CASSO, " , DISTRICT III
CECILIA MAY MORENO, " , DISTRICT IV
ELISEO VALDEZ, JR., " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
MARIO GEORGE ALVARADO, " , DISTRICT VII
CONSUELO "CHELO" MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, CITY MANAGER
GINGER REINERT, ASST. CITY ATTORNEY
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. Special City Council Meeting of February 15, 1997
City Council Meeting of February 18, 1997
City Council Meeting of February 24, 1997
City Council Workshop of February 27, 1997
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinance(s) #97-O-052,
#97-O-053, #97-O-054, #97-O-055, #97-O-056, #97-O-57, #97-O-058,
#97-O-059, #97-O-060, #97-O-061, #97-O-062, and #97-O-63.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. 97-O-052 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97 annual
budget in the amount of $59,795.00 for a grant awarded by
the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission through
the South Texas Development Council to develop and
implement one (1) Household Hazardous Waste Collection and
Proper Disposal Program event. The event is scheduled for
April 19, 1997 and authorizing the City Manager to
implement said budget. (City Council)
Motion to approve ordinance #97-O-052.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. 97-O-053 Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance (map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Lots 2, 3, & 4, Block 1005, Eastern
Division, located at 1800 Ligarde, from B-1 (Limited
Business District) to B-3 (Community Business District).
(Jose R. Perez Jr.)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-053.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. 97-O-054 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning 18.77 acres out of Porcion 36,
Abstract 473, as further described by metes and bounds
located west of US 83 and north of Ca¤ones Boulevard from
AG (Agricultural District) and R-3 (Mixed Residential
District) to R-1-MH (Single Family Manufactured Housing
District). (Jose R. Perez Jr.)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-054.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. 97-O-055 Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit
for sand and gravel sales/storage, on Lot 1, Block 1,
Northeast Complex, located at 1319 Muller Road.
(Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-055.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. 97-O-056 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Lots 3 thru 8, Block 2012, Lots 7 and
8, Block 1941, Eastern Division, and 29,278.18 square feet
of closed public R.O.W. formerly known as Laredo Street,
located at the northwest corner of Ejido Avenue and Laredo
Street, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District). (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-056.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 97-O-057 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Lots 7C and 8C, Block 87, Eastern
Division, located at the northeast corner of Monterrey
Avenue and Rosario Street, from R-3 (Mixed Residential
District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).
(Alfonso "Poncho" Casso)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-057.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 97-O-058 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use
Permit for truck/trailer rental on Lot 2, Block 8,
McPherson Acres Development, Unit III, located at 1613
Calle Del Norte. (Eliseo Valdez, Jr.)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-058.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 97-O-059 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Lots B and C, North Town Auto Center,
located at #1 Auto Road South, from B-3 (Community Business
District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District). (Joe A.
Guerra)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-059.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 97-O-060 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Tract "A", and Lot 1, Block 1, of
Tract "E", North Town Auto Center, located at 6001 San
Dario Ave., from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4
(Highway Commercial District). (Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-060.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 97-O-061 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-1997 annual
budget by increasing estimated revenues and appropriations
in the General Fund by $5,350.00, and authorizing the City
Manager to implement said budget. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-061.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 97-O-062 Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit
for Gas Extraction Facility to Waters Engineering &
Operating, Inc., for a 5.0 acre tract out of Abstract 239,
as further described by metes and bounds, located west of
Hwy. 83, north of Tinaja Street, and south of Saltillo
Street, known as Nora Lee Notzon No. 1 Well, of the City of
Laredo; providing for publication and effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-062.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 97-O-063 Ordinance amending Section 24.1.2.2 of the Laredo Land
Development Code of the City of Laredo relating to
"HISTORIC DISTRICT/LANDMARK BOARD; POWER AND DUTIES";
providing for publication and effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-063.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VI. RESOLUTIONS
15. 97-R-025 Supporting the Concord Hills Development and the provision
of downpayment assistance to qualifying low and moderate
income first-time homebuyers in the form of forgivable
individual loans of $3,000. Passage of this resolution,
will allow the City to negotiate a contract with Vaquillas
Development Ltd. and the Texas Department of Housing and
Community Affairs that details the specific conditions of
assistance to be provided including but not limited to:
1. That the $1.8 million dollar project be funded subject
to the annual appropriation by City Council and the
availability of HOME Investment Partnerships Program
(HOME) funds provided by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD).
2. That funds be allocated for each specific year based on
Vaquillas Development Ltd.'s performance and ability to
construct housing as per the schedule proposed. Fund
balances not utilized will forfeited.
3. That the form of assistance (forgivable loans) provided
to the Concord Hills Development be consistent with the
assistance provided citywide to other individuals
through the City's regular Downpayment Assistance
Program.
4. That the disbursement of funds by the City to Vaquillas
Development Ltd. be contingent on the State's and
County's award of matching funds.
Once the project is underway, the City would also need to
enter into individual contracts with the homebuyers who
would be directly assisted. It is further proposed that
this resolution authorize the revision of the City's
Downpayment Assistance Program as funded through the HOME
Program to conform with this initiative and provide for
fair and equal housing opportunities citywide to others not
associated with the Concord Hills Development and who also
seek downpayment assistance, by incorporating the following
changes:
1. Raise the maximum assistance which can be provided from
$2,500 up to $3,000
2. Convert the program from a payable loan to a forgivable
loan program contingent on the assisted unit's
continued affordability for a 5 year period.
3. Eliminate the 50% match requirement.
Motion to table and to incorporate that a resolution
and a contract be brought back to City Council for approval
on March 17th to include items as specifically stated by
the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso
Motion to waive the rules of order move up item 36.A(1),
E(1) and E(2).
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 97-R-027 Authorizing the issuance of a Drilling Permit to drill and
operate a natural gas well to Waters Engineering &
Operating, Inc. on 5.0 acres out of Abstract 239 as further
described by metes and bounds, located west of Highway 83,
south of Saltillo Street, and north of Tinaja Street, known
as the Nora L. Notzon No. 1 Well.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-027.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 97-R-028 Resolving that the City Manager may execute a Sub-
Ordination, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement
between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and L.A. Ventures,
Inc., as Lessee, and Laredo National Bank, as Lender, for
the purpose of securing a temporary and permanent loan for
the improvements made on Lot No. 4 of Block No. 1 at the
Laredo International Airpark Subdivision at the Laredo
International Airport.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-028.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 97-R-029 Resolving that the City Manager may execute a Sub-
Ordination, Non-Disturbance and Attornment Agreement
between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and L.A. Ventures,
Inc., as Lessee, and Laredo National Bank, as Lender, for
the purpose of securing a temporary and permanent loan for
the improvements made on Lot No. 5 of Block No. 1 at the
Laredo International Airpark Subdivision at the Laredo
International Airport.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-029.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. MOTIONS
19. Approval of a professional services contract with Dr. Maurice Click,
to act as the Health Department's Health Authority under Section
121.033 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, for a period of two
months, and Dr. Benson Huang, to serve as Tuberculosis Elimination
Program Clinician, also for two months.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorization to request Interest Statements from local physicians
for the appointed position of Health Authority from April 1, 1997, to
September 30, 1997, to be compensated at a monthly contract rate of
$1,060.00, and Interest Statements for physician services related to
the Tuberculosis Elimination Program from April 1, 1997, to September
30, 1997. Compensation for the Tuberculosis Program will be at a rate
of $1,500.00, per month for the TB Jail Project, and $150.00, per
clinic for the regular program clinic at the Health Department.
Funding for the Health Authority will be from state grants. Funding
for the TB Jail Program is from Webb County while funding for the
regular TB Program is from state grants.
City Secretary Gustavo Guevara, Jr. noted for the record that
the date of September 30, 1997 should read March 31, 1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the Father Charles McNaboe Recreational Complex. A tentative
bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve construction plans and authorize to advertise for
bids.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for
bids for the following:
a) landscaping contract - Farias, Tarver, and Cigarroa Recreation
Centers
b) irrigation system installation - Farias, Tarver, and Cigarroa
Recreation Center
c) swimming pool chemicals
d) bunker gear - Fire Department
e) safety footwear - Fire Department
Tentative bid award is scheduled for April 7, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit Request for Proposals from
qualified engineering consultants for developing a Comprehensive
Stormwater Management Ordinance(s) and Best Management Practices
(BMP) guidance manual, per the City's National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater requirements. These ordinances
and the BMP guidance manual are the initiation of the Stormwater
Master Planning Process. A tentative bid award is scheduled for April
1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Award of a one year food and beverage concessions contract for West
Martin Field to J & H, Laredo, Texas. The concession services will be
provided for the 20 games (plus playoffs) that the Tecolotes De Los
Dos Laredos will be playing at West Martin Field during the 1997
Mexican Baseball Season plus any City-sponsored special events. The
concessionaire will be paying the City 15% of sales.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Award of an annual service contract to the SOLE BIDDER, Movac
Environmental Service, Inc., McAllen, Texas, in the estimated amount
of $30,000.00, for furnishing vacuum truck services to transport
domestic sewage and/or sewage sludge for the Utilities Department -
Wastewater Division. Funding for this service is available in the
Utilities Department's Wastewater Treatment Division Contractual
Services Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Authorize the purchase of twelve portable radios for the Police
Department through the Houston Galveston Area Council of Governments
(HGAC) -Cooperative Purchasing Program, in the total amount of
$22,920.00. These voice secure radios will be purchased through the
cooperative purchasing contract vendor Motorola. Delivery of these
radios is expected within sixty days. Funding for this purchase is
available in the Police Department's Trust Fund - Capital Outlay
Account.
Cw. Moreno asked if there are any plans to fix asset inventory.
Mr. Pena stated that they will look into that and attack the problem
in a departamental basis.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Authorize the purchase of two fire pumpers through the Houston
Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC) -Cooperative Purchasing
Program, in the total amount of $552,007.00. These two pumper trucks
will be replacements for two, 1979 Fire Fox fire trucks currently in
operation. The two replacement trucks will be assigned to Fire
Station #3 (San Bernardo) and #8 (Del Mar). Funding is available
from Contractual Obligation bond proceeds. Delivery is anticipated
within six to nine months. This purchase will be made through the
use of Certificates of Obligation.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Award of an engineering contract to Crane Engineering Corporation,
Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $67,500.00, to provide
surveys, design and the preparation of plans and specifications for
the Street Paving Assessment Project 60 (24 Blocks). Contract time is
120 calendar days. A
total of 13 engineers/architects responded to the request for
proposals. Funding is available in the Street Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Award of a construction contract to the LOW BIDDER, Pete Gallegos
Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $98,790.00 for the
Repairs to the Tinaja Creek Concrete Channel Improvements between San
Salvador and Pecan Street. Contract time is 80 working days. A total
two bids were received for this service. Funding is available in the
Capital Improvements Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Award of a construction contract to the SOLE BIDDER, Cutler Repaving,
Inc. in the amount of $257,803.04 for the 1996-1997 Street Recycling
Project (133.5 Blocks). Contract time is 90 working days. Funding is
available in the Capital Improvement Fund.
Motion to add the last block of Ejido located at Saunders and
Ejido to this list.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Approval of change order no. 1, an increase of $12,955.00, for
additional sealing on the expansion joint and additional grouting of
structural cracks, and to add 60 calendar days as a result of an
interruption of work to allow the consultant to review the condition
of the tank where the additional work was required to determine a
method of repair as well the time required to await cleaning work by
the Utilities Department of the interior floor of the structure so
that the consultant could again review all conditions to determine if
any additional areas needed to be addressed, to the construction
contract with N.G. Painting, Inc., Kerrville, Texas, for the Repairs
to the North Ground Water Storage Tank located at Lyon Street and
Meadow Avenue. Original contract amount was $80,900.00. This change
order will bring the total contract amount to $93,885.00. Funding is
available in the Waterworks System Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Approval of change order no. 1, an increase of $565.00, for the
balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of
the Geosynthetic Clay Liner for Type IV Landfill located at the City
of Laredo Landfill on State Highway 359 in accordance with the
Subtitle "D" Requirements of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC), and approval of final payment in the amount of
$24,228.00 to Big "D" Environmental, Midland, Texas. Final
construction contract amount is $237,195.00. The project was
completed within the allotted time. Funding is available in the
Landfill Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
33. Authorizing the City Manager to amend the November 18, 1996
Interlocal Agreement between the County of Webb and the City of
Laredo for fire protection, medical emergency, and rescue services to
be provided outside the City limits to the unincorporated areas
within Webb County, in order to increase the annual costs for these
services from $400,000.00 to $500,000.00 per annum payable in equal
monthly installments of $41,666.66 per annum for a term of three (3)
years in order to include fire protection services to certain
"Industrial Districts" as designated in Ordinance No. 97-O-011.
Cm. Bruni reported that the City/County Metro Committee met with the
County Commissioners last week to work out this agreement which they
think is in the best interest of the community and the residents of
Webb County.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Presentation regarding a status report on the progress of the water
and wastewater Colonias Project.
Mr. Eduardo Garza representing Paul Garza & Associates stated they
submitted the report to the Water Development Board on January 24th
and is currently in the review process and they are still undergoing
environmental considerations at this time.
Mr. David Juarez working with Paul Garza on this project reported
that they did submit a completed final draft to the Texas Water
Development Board on January. He has been in communication with the
Engineering staff who is conducting the review on that report. He
mentioned that as far as the schedule goes they had anticipated
taking some consideration in April, 1997, however there were some
environmental problems that were identified, their subcontractor
T.R.C. Miriah did come down to the area, went over the route of the
proposed line and one area of concern that was identified was the
area on 359, along the railroad tracks Tex-Mex going to Chacon Creek.
They are proposing to take the wastewater along the tracks to the
proposed interceptor creek, however one thing that they found there
were several brushy areas that were potential habitat for the ocelot.
To his knowledge there has never been an ocelot identified in Webb
County, but because they are using federal monies for this project
they need to look at different alternatives to avoid that habitat.
One of the alternatives they are looking at, is possibly bore
underneath the tracts and coming along the northside of the tracks.
That is something they have talked about. The environmental firm has
already looked at that area and they made that recommendation to us.
They are going to try to expedite the change in their plan and he
does not anticipate any major changes that would delay the project
any further. They do have to follow the proper procedures and
conduct a formal public hearing which may delay their schedule
somewhat to possibly May or June. One of the major concerns was the
availability of the funds, he is very familiar with the project and
he has been in discussion with the EDAP and the Texas Water
Development Board and they have assured him that the funding is still
going to be there for this project. They will try to meet the
schedule. They will get together with the environmental firm and
make the changes and then they need to prepare their environmental
information document. When that is prepared a formal public hearing
will be set, they anticipate that within two to four weeks the
document will be complete and until they have a document that can be
reviewed by the public they can't set a public hearing.
Mr. Fernando Roman clarified some significant dates on the project
and brief council on the retention of a financial advisor issue.
Mr. Pena stated that the next report will be in 30 days.
Motion to move item #35 to the end of the meeting.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Discussion and possible action regarding possible partial settlement
agreement in Cause No. C-95-00259-02 styled Jacaman Investment Group,
LTD., John S. Jacaman Cattle Company, LTD., John Jacaman and Laura
Jacaman Sanchez v. City of Laredo, with possible Executive Session
for consultation with attorney pursuant to Section 551.071 (1), (A) &
(B) of the Texas Government Code.
Motion to go into Executive Session for consultation with attorney
pursuant to Section 551.071 (1), (A) & (B) of the Texas Government
Code.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Ramirez announced that no formal
action was taken.
Motion to draft an agreement for partial settlement of issues
pertaining to the plat for Jacaman Ranch, Unit 1, and authorize the
City Manager to negotiate procedural and administrative details in
the final draft subject to the concurrence of the City Attorney as
Declaratory Judgment by the Court and to execute the agreement and
carry out its terms.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. COMMUNICATIONS
a. Presentation by Public Information Officer, Marco Alvarado regarding
promotional videos on various City projects.
Marco Alvarado presented (8) 30 second public service announcements
videos of the Mayor and Councilmembers which highlights various city
projects and ongoing activities.
b. Presentation by Candelario Viera concerning a request for a second
extension of his injury leave status.
Mr. Candelario Viera was before council requesting another extension
because he is scheduled for surgery on March 11th.
Mr. Gilbert Sanchez, Risk Manager, reported that approximately a year
ago Sgt. Viera came before council to request additional pay injury
leave and according to administrative protocol the insurance carrier
for the city has the right to contest that, in any spinal surgery
that is the process. The second opinion that was rendered by the TML
designated doctor did not concur with Sgt. Viera's treating
physician, at that point he was given the opportunity to solicit a
third opinion, that third opinion originally did not concur with the
treating doctors' recommendation for spinal surgery. At that point
Sgt. Viera then has the right to go before the Texas Workers'
Compensation Commission to have a case hearing. What happened at
that point was that the hearing officer for the Workmen's
Compensation Commission rendered a decision in favor of the city or
TML that spinal surgery was not needed at that time. Sgt. Viera then
used his administrative protocol and contested that decision, the
commission then granted Sgt. Guerra the authority to go back to the
treating physician to do further testing, which he did. At that
point an additional MRI was conducted and the third opinion, which
they rely on, reverses the original opinion which is why they are
here today. Mr. Viera states that surgery is scheduled for March
11th.
Mr. Sanchez stated that all medicals will be covered, it's only the
issue of income benefits.
Mr. Pena stated that the question here is the continuation of pay.
Police Officers get 100% of their pay unlike other employees and Mr.
Viera is asking continuation of pay.
Motion to give Mr. Viera the extended benefits subject to surgery at
the time that it is stipulated (March 11th) and subject to the six
month recovery period that it takes, and at that time for whatever
reason or a complication in the recovery, etc. that it be brought
before council prior to benefits expiring.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
c. Cw. Montalvo requested that by next council meeting staff bring back
a cost estimate as far as having an employee collecting delinquent
taxes for the Tax Department instead of having outside attorneys
collecting them.
d. Cm. Bruni stated he was handed an invitation by Maria E. Myer and
Antonio Munoz who are members of Union de Colonias Olividadas, it
states council is invited to a very important meeting where
Mr. Robert Garcia from KLDO is having live coverage for this meeting,
to be aired at the 10:00 news. Commissisioner Roque Vela and people
from the colonias will be attending this meeting and was inviting
council to witness and contribute their expertise in the matter, the
meeting is scheduled for March 3rd at 10:00 p.m. at the San Carlos
Mission.
e. Mr. & Mrs. Juan Garza from Victory Outreach stated that they have
opened a new center and was requesting assistance from the city.
Mayor Ramirez asked that this item be placed on the agenda for the
next meeting to be sponsored by himself and co-sponsored by Cm.
Guerra.
X. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
36. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr.
1. Recognizing the accomplishments of the "Laredo All American
Cheerleaders" which consists of 24 school girls ranging in ages from
9 to 14. These fine young ladies represented the City at the
National Cheerleaders Association competition held in Dallas on
February 15 & 16. They placed 22nd nationally out of a pool of 89
teams.
Mayor Ramirez recognized the Laredo All American Cheerleaders and
their leader Mrs. Norma V. Arriaga.
B. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Presentation by former Mayor Aldo Tatangelo on the City of Laredo's
position on affordable housing with possible action.
Cm. Bruni asked that items B(1) and B(2) be taken together.
Mr. Tatangelo stated that his plan or intent is for the city to
build low income affordable housing on city property for people with
yearly income of $10,000-$15,000.00 to take them out of slums or out
of sub-standard housing, unfortunately the original plan has been
forgotten, the city has bought property, he thinks it is wrong, is
against this and it's against the rules of HUD. He wants to know
what will be done with city property, we have the assets, but
nothing is done. He concluded by saying that he wanted a commitment
by the City Council.
Erasmo Villarreal from Community Development stated there are three
city blocks in which they are trying to build. They are trying to
design a product specifically for what Mr. Tatangelo is taking
about, building a house with lot for about $20,000 to
$25,000 that may fit individuals in the very low income level. They
already have the funds and specs for the 100 lots that were bought
at Los Obispos, they were planning to bring those specs next week
and get authorization. The funding that they have designated to do
the construction aspect of these things is now geared to do the
houses at Los Obispos first and the they will come back and do these
other projects, or if they can find additional funds, they can do
this concurrently.
Cw. Montalvo wanted to know when Mr. Villarreal is coming before
council to bring all the information.
Mayor Ramirez stated that Mr. Villarreal is coming back with a plan
with the cost to put that plan through and at that time
they will decide where to find the money, re-appropriate once we see
the plan which will take approximately 45 days for those three
blocks and at that time if council wants to fund it with the
$350,000.00 that we have, we can do it.
2. Presentation by former Mayor Aldo Tatangelo on the proposed
demolition of two buildings at the Laredo International Airport with
possible action.
Mr. Tatangelo wants to know why they are being torn down.
Joe Flores, Airport Director, stated that they are not suitable for
residential or housing use because it is not compatible to the area
and that the area is better suited for commercial use.
Motion to instruct staff to prepare a report on the positive
and negative points on the use of these two buildings.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Status report on the Montgomery/India Drainage Project with possible
action.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that this project was
awarded back in December to Juarez Engineering with a five month
contract, they are at the end of three months, and they will have
plans ready by the end of March when they will receive the sub-
surface exploration which has gotten underway, and if that is done
possibly by the end of March, the plans will be going out for bids
in April and will be awarded in May or June and it will take about
six months for completion.
4. Status report on the Santos Trailer Park with possible action.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, reported that one
resident was evicted from the property, so there is only one
remaining. They did write a letter to the attorney representing the
Santos Family because they understand the gentlemen will be leaving
to California this month and they are really pushing for the
remaining resident to be out of there before the owner leaves and
were asking for his cooperation.
Cm. Bruni asked staff that as soon as it is cleared out, to instruct
the owners to completely clean the property.
5. Status report on the Casa Blanca Trailer Park with possible action.
Cm. Bruni stated that the park is still messy, dirty, it's an
eyesore, and there are still families living there.
Benny Salinas, Building Director, reported that there are some
houses that do meet standards and that are occupied. There are some
that are in terrible condition, some are used as storage buildings,
and they will be citing violations through the zoning ordinances.
One of the problems that they are having is that the mobile homes
belong to Mr. Tomas Gomez and he is a tenant, the property belongs
to a different party, the owner of the property is trying to evict
Mr. Gomez, he has moved some of the structures to Rio Bravo but
there are still many of them in the property. He added that they
have been working with the Legal Department to try to settle this
matter with Mr. Gomez, but have been unable to find him. Some
zoning violations have been filed at Municipal Court.
Ginger Reinert, Assistant City Attorney, reported on the status of
the cases as they presently are at Municipal Court.
6. Discussion and possible action concerning the addition of the 1100
Block of Texas to the City's Paving Program.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated staff went to
the site and apparently there is interest in the purchasing the
street. There are two of three abutting owners that they have
contacted and that are interested in purchasing the street, so they
would like to explore that option before, it is officially closed by
council, so they are talking about 45-60 days if the whole process
comes through.
Motion to include this block in project 60.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
Cm. Guerra withdrew his second and the motion died for lack of
another second.
C. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. "Poncho" Casso
1. Discussion and possible action regarding broken water pipes on the
2400 Block of Fremont Street.
Cm. Casso stated that these pipes are broken every year for the past
six or seven years on that block and wants to know when they will
replace the entire water pipes there.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated that they conducted an
analysis of 11 blocks for seven years and indeed found about 18
pipes in that lapse, most of them occurred in 2400 and 2700
block of Fremont. He added that this area is a transition area
where the pressure is higher, they would like to begin the
replacement of these pipes starting on the 2700 block within 30 days
and then move uphill until they reach the 1500 block. They don't
have any problem with the pipes on the 1700-2200 which are the same
age.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding our sign ordinance.
Motion to table indefinitely.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the artwork for the statue
to replace George Washington.
Cm. Casso presented the artwork to Mayor Ramirez, wants input from
council and that council decide what direction to go, and also wants
to know when the county will pick up the George Washington Statue.
Mayor Ramirez suggested that the artwork perhaps on the eagle have
the wings spread out grabbing the flag with one claw and the other
sort of in an attack mode, which is what the veterans are
suggesting.
Cm. Casso suggested it be done like the last time where the City
Secretary asked for proposals.
Mayor Ramirez asked that we go out for a proposal package for both
statues, the eagle, the Santos Benavides and also the airport work
as well and that the proposal package be brought back for the March
17th.
Mr. Evan Quiroz stated that the Quiroz family had given the statue
to the City of Laredo and that it was not on a temporary loan basis,
the city owns the statue.
Cm. Bruni stated that if the owner of the statue says it is the
city's we should keep it and just put a Santos Benavides Statue on
the front and keep George Washington where it is.
D. Requests by Councilmember Cecilia May Moreno
1. Status report regarding the painting of the Lyon Street water Tanks.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, reported that he had been in
contact with Nixon High School and that the painting may probably be
done in June.
E. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Recognition of the B.E.S.T. Organization and the Laredo-Webb
Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc., for acquiring a $20,000.00,
HOME Rehabilitation Grant for the Perez Family located on Burnside
Street.
Cm. Alvarado presented Appreciation Awards to John Puig who was
presenting the Laredo-Webb Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. and
Henry Flores who was representing B.E.S.T.
John Puig introduced the people in the audience who are part of NHS,
those present were: Jesse Hinojosa, Tony Martinez, Mario Gonzalez,
Norma Leal, and Marie Villarreal and Mr. Angelo Picarillo who was
representing HOME.
Henry Flores introduced from B.E.S.T. the following: John Arndt,
Adriana Craddock, Alicia Castillo, and Jesus Ponce.
2. Presentation by John Arndt on a disc golf recreation program with a
request to have the City's Education and Recreation Department
review this program for possible consideration.
Mr. John Arndt made the presentation before council and explained
the need for this sport to our community kids and people of all ages
and wanted to see if the city could provide some area at any city
park for this sport.
Cm. Alvarado asked that this proposal be turned over to the
Parks & Recreation Director for their review.
Motion to waive the rules of order and move up item #33.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Appointing Norma Castilla as my nominee the Laredo Commission for
Women.
Motion appointing Norma Castilla as Cw. Moreno's nominee to the
Laredo Commission for Women.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
37. Public hearing regarding the amendment of the 19th and 20th Action
Year (AY) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Final Statements
and the 1996 Consolidated Plan as it pertains to the use of 22 Action
Year CDBG funds for the purpose of reprogramming a total of
$1,633,886.00, to facilitate Phase I acquisition and relocation
activities associated with the widening of Blocks 1700-2200 of
Lafayette Street. CDBG funds and fund balances proposed to be
reprogrammed include:
19th Action Year CDBG
Housing Rehab Administration . . . . . .$ 91
Housing Rehab Loans. . . . . . . . . . .$ 17
Project 48 Grants. . . . . . . . . . . .$ 1,054
Project 50 Grants. . . . . . . . . . . .$ 1,370
Project 47 Street Improvements . . . . .$ 20
Affordable Housing Infrastructure. . . .$ 130,587
Northeast Laredo Park. . . . . . . . . .$ 4,321
Subtotal . . . . .$137,460
20th Action Year CDBG
Administration . . . . . . . . . .$ 24,655
Housing Rehab Administration . . . . . .$ 27,880
Street Improvement Project 52 Grants . .$ 9,120
Street Improvement Project 54 Grants . .$ 19,793
Street Improvement Project 55 Grants . .$ 17,780
Street Improvement Project 56 Grants . .$ 6,025
Street Improvement Project 54. . . . . .$ 22,807
Santo Nino Wastewater Improvement
Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 150,000
Azteca Neighborhood Wastewater Imp.
Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 150,000
Laredo Webb Neighborhood Housing
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 68,366
Subtotal . . . . .$496,426
22nd AY CDBG
Acquisition of Land for Affordable
Housing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,000,000
Subtotal . . . .$1,000,000
Total. . . . . . . . . . .$1,633,886
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Juan Ramon Barrera spoke in favor of the amendment.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess and convene as The Laredo Mass Transit Board.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. 97-RT-026 Approval of Resolution authorizing the Laredo Municipal
Transit System to enter into an agreement with Mr. Paul
Garza, Property owner, and the Texas General Services
Commission, lessee, to permit an El Metro Bus and
Paratransit Van to access the new Texas Human Services
Department Building parking lot located at 4410 State
Highway 359 for safe boarding and alighting by passengers.
This will allow for the safe and proper boarding and
alighting of passengers visiting the new Human Services
Department Food Stamp Office.
Motion to approve Resolution 97-RT-026.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Public hearing concerning the extension of the El Metro busroute #8B,
"Guadalupe/Villa del Sol", approximately 1.3 miles in order to
provide public transportation to the new Texas Human Services
Department located at 4410 State Highway 359. This extension will be
effective March 10, 1997.
APPROVAL OF A MOTION
Motion to extend the El Metro bus route #8B, "Guadalupe/Villa del
Sol", approximately 1.3 miles in order to provide public
transportation to the new Texas Human Services Department located at
4100 State Highway 359. This extension will be effective March 10,
1997.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Jesus Ponce wanted to know since the Guadalupe Bus serves the veteran
clinic and runs every hour, will the extension increase the time span
for the services to the clinic, or will it affect the schedule. He
asked that council consider changing the schedule for this route to
run every 45 minutes.
Gilbert Segovia, Transit Director, explained that the time span will
remain the same, they are just making minor adjustments in
time points, there will be no changes to the actual schedule. He
said they will be looking at the next fiscal year to make any
modifications that they need to do city-wide.
Motion to approve to extend the El Metro bus route #8B,
"Guadalupe/Villa del Sol", approximately 1.3 miles in order to
provide public transportation to the new Texas Human Services
Department located at 4100 State Highway 359.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Award of contracts to the following LOW BIDDERS MEETING
SPECIFICATIONS for the purchase of equipment and furniture for the
Inter-modal Downtown Transit Center:
a) Design Source, Laredo, Texas-Desks $ 8,766.87
(a total of five bids were received)
b) Cook & Jones, McAllen, Texas-Seating $ 9,539.50
(a total of five bids were received)
c) Executive World, Laredo, Texas-
Misc. Furniture $ 6,489.00
(a total of five bids were received)
d) Tenant, Anaheim, CA-Parking Lot
Sweeper $31,917.39
(a total of two bids were received)
Funding is available in the Transit System -Section 3 Grant, Inter-
Modal Transit Center Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Approval of amendment no. 4, an increase of $2,300.00, to the
professional engineering and architectural contract with Wilbur Smith
Associates Engineers, Houston, Texas, for additional structural
engineering design services for canopy improvements at the Intercity
Bus Service Facility at Phase "B" of the Laredo Intermodal Transit
Center. Original contract amount was $765,000.00. This change
amendment will bring the total contract amount to $792,030.00.
Funding is available in Transit System Purchase Professional Fee
Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Approval of change order no. 1, a decrease of $12,060.00, to the
contract with Nova Bus, Inc., to purchase fifteen compressed natural
gas transit buses, to delete the bus stripe painting option and have
the El Metro's maintenance personnel apply logo and stripe decals.
Original contract amount was $4,516,200.00. This change order will
reduce the total contract amount to $4,504,140.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Mass Transit Board and convene as City
Council.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES O1 TO 26 ARE TRUE
COMPLETE AND CORRECT PROCEEDING OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE
3RD DAY OF MARCH, 1997. A COPY IS ON FILE AT THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY