CITY OF LAREDO COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M97-R-10 MARCH 17, 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
JERRY BRUCE CAIN, ASST. CITY ATTORNEY
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. City Council Meeting of March 3, 1997
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cw. Moreno was not present at this time.)
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
3. Ordinance designating as a Public Utility Easement, a 0.1275 (5555.6
square feet) acre tract of land to install a sanitary sewer line in
order to provide sanitary sewer service to the Freddie Benavides
Sports Complex and to the abutting properties along Chacota Street
being paved with Project 59 funds; said tract being the Westerly 20.00
feet of Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, Block 1191, Eastern Division, Webb
County, Texas.
Motion to table for the next council meeting.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with U.S.
Cellular to construct a 100 feet. high self-supporting tower and
related equipment building for use as a cellular antenna site on a 100
x 100 foot parcel in the corner of Lot 4, Block 1866, E.D. of the City
of Laredo, Webb County, TX.
1. The term of this lease shall be 10 years commencing March, 1997
and ending March, 2007, and may be extended for one (5) year
option ending March, 2012.
2. Monthly rent will by $600.00 payable annually in advance and
adjusted annually according to changes in the Consumer Price
Index.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Ordinance closing as a public easement a road dedicated to the Public
described on Aurelio Luera's Subdivision Plat of Block 1436, Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, recorded in Vol. 1, Page 90 of
the Webb County Plat Records and releasing any interest the City of
Laredo may have on the title of the road property hereby abandoned as
a public easement, and providing for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey fee simple title to Lorraine Laurel
for the sale at fair market value of "The Surface Only" of certain
City property described as being a tract of land containing 3,741.41
square feet (0.08589 of an acre) more or less, being the east one-half
of that section of the former South Buena Vista Avenue between Tinaja
Street and the west right-of-way line of Highway 83, also known as the
2700 block of South Buena Vista Avenue situated in the Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. RESOLUTIONS
7. 97-R-013 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a water rights sales
agreement for the purchase of 250 acre feet of class A Water
Rights from Certificate of Adjudication #23-289B for a total
of $90,000 from Soltex Development. Authorizing the City
Manager to make an application to Texas Natural Resource
Conservation Commission for conversion to municipal use,
establish diversion point have City of Laredo's Certificate
of Adjudication no. 23-2997 amended by Texas Natural
Resource Conservation Commission.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-013.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 97-R-025 Supporting the Concord Hills Development and the provision
of downpayment assistance to qualifying low and moderate
income homebuyers in the form of individual loans of $3,000
and authorizing the execution of a contract with the Texas
Department of Housing and Community Affairs to further the
same, subject but not limited to the following conditions:
1. That the $1.8 million dollar project be funded subject
to availability of HOME Investment Partnerships Program
(HOME) funds provided by the U.S. Department 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
complete and construct housing as per the following
schedule: 50 homes by 9-30-97, 200 homes by 9-30-98,
200 homes by 9-30-99, 150 homes by 9-30-2000. Fund
balance not utilized yearly as per schedule will be
forfeited.
3. That the disbursement of funds by the City to the
homebuyer in the Concord Hills Development be contingent
on the State's and County's award of matching funds.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-025 as presented.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso
Cm. Casso requested an amendment to the resolution as
follows:
1 - Revise item #2 to require quarterly performance reviews
as it was discussed in the last meeting.
2 - Add to the resolution the language from the last agenda
revising our current downpayment assistance program to
provide for fair and equal housing opportunities
citywide, to others not associated with the Concord
Hills Development, these are items 1 and 3 from the
second part of the resolution as the way it appears on
our last agenda. Item two is not applicable as we now
understand that we can work with a forgivable loan at
this time. The downpayment assistance would have to be
repaid on the same schedule as the MPT program.
3 - Add to the resolution a requirement that the balance of
the City's home monies, specifically the $5 million that
the Mayor mentioned at our first meeting on this subject
be earmarked the citywide downpayment assistance over
the next four years.
4 - Add to the resolution the city's support for the state's
$3,000.00 downpayment assistance program related your
ongoing mortgage bond monies and the leveraging of the
city's $3,000.00 downpayment assistance monies with the
state's assistance when bond money is available by
combining city, state, and any other entities
participation in the single second lien.
5 - Add to the resolution a requirement that the staff
periodically review the geographical disbursement of our
downpayment assistance to ensure that assistance for
affordable housing is being made available in all
council districts.
Mayor Ramirez stated that these are the items that Cm.
Casso was not authorized to amend on the resolution and
resolution stands as presented and passed.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated that
currently they have a match of 50% and they would go ahead
and delete that upon council's approval. She also reported
that they have been in contact with HUD office and they
requested that council proceed as they wish with the
resolution however contingent upon HUD approval. They
wanted to check with HUD headquarters just to make sure that
the structure was o.k. as far as the city participating with
the state, because the state would then become a recipient
of the city and basically that has not been done before so
they wanted to check that out. She wanted council's
consideration on that.
Cm. Alvarado stated that it was discussed as a council that
they wanted to work something out on a citywide basis, he
knows that the builders association is working something out
to put something together, and since they are addressing
this right now he wanted to go on record as saying that
"that's the council's position and that we want staff to
work with the developers with the association to help pursue
on trying to get additional funds to make this a citywide
project."
Mr. Evan Quiros was before council and spoke of
the acreage that is going up for green space and added that
in Phase I they will be short approximately one acre under
the green space requirements.
Cw. Moreno joined the meeting at 6:05 p.m.
Motion to waive the rules of order and move item
X-A(2)(3) and G(2).
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 97-R-031 Endorsing the Business Anti-Smuggling Coalition (BASC). The
Coalition was created to eliminate the use of international
trade shipments as a viable option for drug smuggling by
having importers and their partners, including maquiladora
plants, carriers, customhouse brokers and warehouse
proprietors, develop self-imposed business standards and
security measures that will effectively deter narcotics
traffickers. (Sponsored by Cm. Mario G. Alvarado)
Mr. Dan Hastings, Jr. appeared before the council
asking their support for this resolution. He informed
council that on April 8th he and the Economic Development
Organizations along the South Texas border will be hosting a
conference on the new business-driven Business Anti-
Smuggling Coalition (BASC) program and invited the Mayor and
City Council to the conference.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-031.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Alvarado was temporarily out.)
10. 97-R-032 Accepting a blanket easement from the Housing Authority of
Laredo to provide access to the water lines in Richter
Courts, authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
cooperation agreement between the City and Housing Authority
of Laredo. To accept each tenant in Richter Courts as
individual customers and setting specific conditions and
responsibilities for each party under such agreement.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-032.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Alvarado
11. 97-R-033 Authorizing the City Manager to endorse the City's
partnership with South Texas Development Council (STDC) for
the development of the South Texas Regional Water Supply
Plan Phase I, for: Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb and Zapata
counties. The City of Laredo will provide matching funds
not to exceed $2,500.00 for the proposed water resources
planning in the four counties.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-033.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 97-R-034 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant in the amount
of $256,499.00 from the Texas Department of Health for the
HIV/STD Ryan White Care Consortium Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning April 1,
1997, through March 31, 1998.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-034.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 97-R-036 Accepting the donation of a parcel of land as Dedication of
Right-of-Way from the First Baptist Church for the widening
of Malinche said parcel being situated in Block 1234, City
of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; described as being the
surface only of a 1,209.85 square feet tract of land, more
or less, out of Lot 1, Block 1234, Eastern Division,
property of the first Baptist Church of Laredo as per
Warranty Deed recorded in Volume 1198, Pages 359-360, of the
Webb County Deed Records, dated September 24, 1986; and
further described by metes and bounds.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-036.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 97-R-037 Accepting the donation of one parcel of land as Dedication
of Right-of-Way for the extension of Cortez St. from Ejido
Avenue east to connect with Cortez Street at the Villa Del
Sol Subdivision; and two parcels of land as Utility
Easements for the installation of a revised drainage system
at the intersection of Cortez St. and Ejido Avenue; said
parcels being situated in Webb County, Texas, and being
generally described below and more particularly described by
metes and bounds.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-037.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. MOTIONS
15. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
for the following:
a) traffic signal, and pedestrian signal hardware to be used in new
traffic signals projects and the maintenance of existing traffic
signals, b) purchase larger size, vandal proof street name signs to
be installed on Non-CDBG areas with priority to intersections with
missing or faded street name signs (a total of 1,792 street name
sign blades for 448 intersections will be purchased),
c) contract for providing assembling and installation services for
1,640 new vandal proof street name signs with the City of Laredo.
A tentative bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
and interest statements for the following:
a) Design, produce, and deliver bronze sculptures for placement at the
New International Airport and City Hall. A tentative contract
award contingent of appropriation of funds for specific projects.
b) mechanical joint fittings, annual contract-Utilities
Department. A tentative bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
c) waterworks material, annual contract -Utilities Department. A
tentative bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
d) 3/4 ton truck-Community Development Department. A tentative bid
award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids and interest statements with the amendment that the artist
for the New International Airport be brought separately for
authorization.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs) for
consulting services to provide surveys, design and preparation of
plans and specifications for a 16 Inch Water Line along Highway 359 to
service the proposed new Fire Training Facility, and the anticipation
of the water services to the Colonias located on State Highway 359.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs) for
consulting services to prepare an engineering report with cost
estimates for both construction and design, and provide surveys,
design and the preparation of plans and specifications for the
required utilities relocation and/or adjustments in conjunction with
the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) proposed widening and
installation of a proposed storm sewer line on U.S. Highway 59
between San Dario and Ejido. The project will be rendered in two
phases. Phase I is the preparation of a preliminary engineering
report with cost estimates for both construction and design services.
Phase II will be actual design and preparation of plans/specifications
of the proposed utilities lines relocation and/or adjustments.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs) for
consulting services to provide surveys, design and preparation of
plans and specifications for the Laredo International Bridge No. 1
Pavement Reconstruction of Approaches, Phase I.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit request for proposals from
qualified consultants for Stormwater sampling equipment supply &
installation on a turn key basis, and request for bids from qualified
analytical laboratories for stormwater samples for a period of three
years for a grant awarded by the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission to be used for implementing Nonpoint Source Toxic Substance
Project for Manadas Creek for the period from November 1, 1996 through
September 30, 1999.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the Southgate Pilot Channel Improvements to be placed over an
existing earthen ditch located along the east side of Canada Avenue,
approximately 2200 L.F. and approximately 12 feet wide, from Norton to
Ireland, curving southwesterly through the drainage easement located
along the east side of New York to Southgate Boulevard. A tentative
bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the Willow/Chacon Drainage Improvements with tentative award
on May 5, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the Santa Maria Avenue Drainage Improvements between Del Mar
Boulevard and Markley Lane. A tentative bid award is scheduled for
April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the San Salvador/Pine/Chestnut Drainage Improvements. A
tentative bid award is scheduled for May 5, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for the City of Laredo and the Laredo Independent School District
(LISD) Sidewalk Program (13 LISD Schools) for Buenos Aires Elementary,
Ochoa/Sanchez Elementary, J.C. Martin Elementary, D.D. Hachar
Elementary, Kawas Elementary, Ligarde Elementary, Daiches Elementary,
and Zachary Elementary Schools, for Cigarroa Middle, Memorial Middle
and Lamar Middle Schools, and also for Cigarroa and Nixon High
Schools. A tentative bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Award of contract to the Lowest Bidder Meeting Specifications Applied
Earth Sciences, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, in the amount of
$29,500.00 for the removal of 6 - 25,000 gallons underground storage
tanks and ancillary equipment from the City of Laredo Airport Fuel
Farm. Funding is available in the Airport Fuel Farm Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Award of contract to the Low Bidder, Vanmar Inc., Laredo, Texas, in
the estimated amount of $70,000.00 for providing asphalt/concrete
repairs and water taps/T connections as required by the Utilities
Department. Vanmar submitted the lowest bid pricing on a per square
foot cost basis to repair asphalt and concrete cuts required to repair
distribution lines and is the low bidder on a unit cost for water tap
and T connection installation service. This type of service will be
requested on a per need basis and all work is inspected by the
Utilities Department for compliance with City requirements. The bid
pricing is the same as the last contract period. Funding is available
in the Utilities Department Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Award of a construction contract to the Lowest Bidder, Ramex
Construction Company, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of
$152,315.00, for the Pace Street Drainage Extension and the
Ligarde/Barrios Drainage Project. A total five (5) bids were received
on March 4, 1997. Funding is available in the Community Development 21
Action Year, and Drainage Improvements - Pace Street and in the
Drainage Improvements Ligarde/Barrios Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Award of a construction contract to the Lowest Bidder, Ramex
Construction Company, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of
$137,702.40, for the Malinche Avenue Re-alignment Street Improvements
from Bartlett/Locust to Frost Street adjacent to J.W. Nixon High
School to include reconstruction of the Bartlett/Locust intersection,
construction of a bus drop-off lane on the north side of Malinche
Avenue between Locust and Plum; reconstruction and widening of
Malinche Avenue; construction of concrete curb and gutter, and
sidewalks. A total of two (2) bids were received on February 27, 1997.
Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Authorizing the City Manager to extend a contract with AT&T dated
September 25, 1985, for a period not to exceed 60 days from date of
expiration (February 28, 1997), while negotiations are finalized on
the contract renewal for the
Bridge conduit which is currently leased to AT&T.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract between the City of
Laredo and Brown & Root, Inc., in association with Mejia Engineering,
Inc., for professional services in the development of a Flood
Protection Plan for the Chacon Watershed, in an amount not to exceed
$300,000.00. The study will prepare hydrological and hydraulic data
required for the submittal of a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) to the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, will establish a stormwater
information database identifying structures in the floodplain, will
develop a Flood Protection Plan including proposed regulations for
non-structural controls as well as a program of structural
improvements for flood control purposes, and will provide the city
with a computer model to plan the scheduled maintenance of stream beds
and structures. Funding for this project will come from the city
(($17,500.00), the County of Webb ($17,500.00), the Webb County
Drainage District No. 1 ($5,000.00), and the Texas Water Development
Board in the form of a grant ($260,000.00).
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Approval of a Professional Services Contract for an amount not to
exceed $70,450.00 to Structural Engineering Associates, Inc. (SEA)
(San Antonio) in association with Lockwood, Andrews & Newman, Inc.
(LAN), Foster Engineering Company, Ashley Humphries & Sanchez
Architects and Traffic Engineers, Inc. for surveying services at the
Laredo Northwest International Bridge (Fourth Bridge) and Border
Facilities and authorization to the City Manager to negotiate an
engineering contract for the balance of the scope of work of the
project to include design, resident construction management.
Funding is available in the Bridge System Fourth Bridge
Architectural Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Approval of change order no. 2, an increase of $2,240.10 to the
construction contract with Ramex Construction Company, Inc., Houston,
Texas, for required street patchwork in conjunction with the Sierra
Vista 5 Million Gallon Ground Storage Tank and Pump Facility and the
Santa Isabel Reverse Osmosis Facility Projects. Original contract
amount was $4,035,915.10. This change order will bring the total
contract amount to $4,035,175.20. Funding is available in the
Waterworks System Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Approval of amendment no. 2, an increase of $36,488.00 to the
architectural/engineering contract with NRS Engineers, Harlingen,
Texas, for additional services to include archaeological monitoring
and to amend the O&M (Operation and Maintenance) Manual to include the
entire facility including the new intake structure prior to final
completion of the 60 Million Gallons per Day (MGD) Raw Water Intake
Structure at the Jefferson Street Water Treatment Plant per the Texas
Water Development Board Requirements. Original contract amount was
$341,000.00. This amendment will bring the total contract amount to
$397,888.00. Funding is available in the Waterworks System Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Approval of proposal from Central Power & Light for $132,450.00, to
transfer overhead power lines to underground on McPherson Road for the
new City of Laredo Public Library. Funding is available through the
sale of certificates of obligation series 1997B.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
36. Authorizing staff to negotiate thru possible donation or thru a Right
of Entry and Possession instrument, the right to enter upon the
proposed alignment of International Boulevard to be further described
upon completion of formal survey for the purpose of surveying,
grading, and aligning the proposed right-of-way of this extension.
Motion authorizing staff to negotiate thru possible donation or thru a
Right of Entry and Possession instrument, the right to enter upon the
proposed alignment of International Boulevard to be further described
upon completion of formal survey for the purpose of surveying,
grading, and aligning the proposed right-of-way of this extension.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For : 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Presentation on the Operational Expenses for opening the Three Fire
Stations.
Mike Garza, Interim Fire Chief, gave the following proposed schedule:
October 1997 - Hire 19 firefighters for staffing of first fire
station (12) and new EMS unit (7): training period -6 months.
December 1997- Begin construction of first fire station.
April 1998 - Construction completed for first fire
station becomes operational. New EMS unit becomes
operational.
Staffing requirements: reclassify 6 firefighters to 3 captains and 3
driver positions.
October 1998 - Hire 12 firefighters for staffing of second fire
station. Purchase new fire apparatus -$300,000.
December 1998- Begin construction of second fire station.
April 1999 - Construction completed for second fire station becomes
operational. Staffing requirements: reclassify 6
firefighters to 3 captains and 3 driver positions.
October 1999 - Hire 12 firefighters for staffing of third fire
station. Purchase of new fire apparatus -$300,000.
December 1999- Begin construction of third fire station.
April 2000 - Construction completed, becomes operational.
Staffing requirements: reclassify 6 firefighters to 3 captains and 3
driver positions.
38. Authorizing staff to advertise the public sale by competitive bids for
a 0.556 of an acre tract of land containing approximately 24,224
square. ft. of land out of a 1.00 acre tract, out of Block 1, of the
Don Rey of Texas, Inc. Subdivision, as per plat recorded in Volume 5,
Page 82, Plat Records of Webb County, Texas; and formerly known as the
Dairy Queen Restaurant; and being more particularly described by metes
and bounds, with possible Executive Session for deliberation regarding
real property as authorized by Section 551.072 of the Texas Government
Code. A tentative bid award is scheduled for the April 28, 1997
meeting.
Motion authorizing staff to advertise the public sale by competitive
bids for a 0.556 of an acre tract of land containing approximately
24,224 square. ft. of land out of a 1.00 acre tract, out of Block 1,
of the Don Rey of Texas, Inc. Subdivision, as per plat recorded in
Volume 5, Page 82, Plat Records of Webb County, Texas; and formerly
known as the Dairy Queen Restaurant.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Authorizing the City Manager to amend Section 4, of the March 3, 1997
amended 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 notice of re-negotiation
and cancellation period from 60 days to 120 days prior to the end of
the fiscal year, during the entire term of this Interlocal Agreement,
in order to include fire protection services to certain "Industrial
Districts" as designated in Ordinance No. 97-O-011.
Motion to amend the contract to incorporate the cancellation period
(instead of 60 days to 120 days) that it be stricken
and that it be 12 months prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8
Motion to approve as amended.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Presentation with possible action to modify the current Sidewalk
Program that includes sidewalks along major thoroughfares and add
sidewalks along CDBG residential neighborhoods that would provide safe
walkways to connect neighborhoods to local schools. The current
sidewalk program on San Bernardo Avenue between Houston Street and
Tesoro Lane and Corpus Christi Street between San Dario Avenue and
Arkansas Avenue was funded with 1993 and 1994 CDBG Funds. The project
is on hold due to lack of funding for non CDBG areas. This
modification would make it possible to continue the sidewalk program
on schedule and help the City meet timely expenditures of CDBG funds.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, made the presentation
before council. She added that currently they have about $425,000.00,
the proposed cost for this project is $399,000.00 the difference would
be used to hire an engineer and do the different costs that would be
associated with the project. She stated that they are proposing to
contract these projects out.
Mayor Ramirez suggested a modification for the future, that we start
looking at blocks and doing blocks within the CDBG primarily, doing an
entire block at a time and work from the main thoroughfares into the
residential areas, but to do them by blocks.
Motion to proceed and modify the current sidewalk program.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Authorizing 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 approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Request for confirmation of candidate for appointment to the position
of City Attorney with possible Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.074 of the Texas Government Code to discuss said confirmation.
Motion to confirm Mr. Jaime Flores as the new City Attorney as the
appointee of City Manager Florencio Pena.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Request of Executive Session to be conducted pursuant to Section
551.074 of the Texas Government Code to discuss the selection of a
Police Chief and a Fire Chief.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Steve Wright, Wright Realty, requested that the $200
administrative fee for illegal hookups be modified.
Mayor Ramirez requested that this item be brought before the
council under Cm. Guerra's presentation and at the same time instruct
staff to present a report that shows how many of these illegal hookups
have been discovered and the kind of circumstances generally, that
have affected us discovering this hookups so that they can better
address this one.
Motion to place it on the agenda for the March 24th meeting for full
discussion.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
44. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr.
1. Presentation by Reverend Juan Garza of the Calvary Center, Inc.,
concerning their request for funding assistance from the City with
possible action. (Co-sponsored by Cm. Joe A. Guerra)
Mrs. Isabel Garza requested financial assistance from the council for
the Calvary Center.
Cw. Montalvo requested that she apply to the City through
the Third Party Funding Program for the next fiscal year.
2. Presentation by Judge Raul Vasquez and Carol Sherwood of the
Children's Coalition concerning National Child Abuse Prevention
Month.
Judge Raul Vasquez representing the Webb County Children's Coalition
asked for help and participation concerning the National Child Abuse
Prevention for the month of April. He asked that on April 1st at
noon that a 30 second prayer or song be conducted by all the city
employees and allow the distribution of ribbons.
Mrs. Carol Sherwood asked that the City should recognize the families
of the employees by providing pictures of the employees' families.
She concluded by thanking the council for their time.
3. Presentation by Jim Moore, President of the Border Olympics.
Mr. Moore publicly thanked the council for their support on behalf of
all the directors and volunteers and named the council as Honorary
Board Members and presented them with a cap and t-shirt.
B. Requests by Councilmember Jose R. Perez, Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the initiation of a study to
determine how city employee salary's compare with equivalent
positions in other cities. This should involve a reevaluation of the
Slavin, Nevins & Associates Study done in 1990. This information
should be completed prior to initiating the 1997-98 budget process.
Dan Migura, Interim Administrative Services Director, briefed council
on the Slavin & Nevins Program, he added that it was approved by
council in 1991. The intent of the program was to have an annual
review and possible upgrade and since the conception of the program
there hasn't been one. He added that if we look at our salary
program right now we are behind. Mr. Pena has instructed staff for
sometime now, to look into that.
With recent TML survey they compared and they have some figures that
do support that we are substantially behind. There currently exists
a task working on this, they met last week and they are exploring
options. Staff suggested that since we already have a Health and
Benefits Ad Hoc Committee they would like council to consider
expanding the role of that Ad Hoc Committee to include a Salary
Administration Program so they can work with that Ad Hoc Committee on
options and recommendations and then come before council with those
recommendations.
Motion to initiate a study to determine how city employee salary's
compare with equivalent positions in other cities. This should
involve a re-evaluation of the Slavin, Nevins & Associates Study done
in 1990. This information should be completed prior to initiating
the 1997-98 budget process and
that the motion be amended to include staff's suggestion to expand
the role of the Health and Benefits Ad Hoc Committee to include a
Salary Administration Program to explore options and make
recommendations.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Appointing Peter Lizcano as my nominee to the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board.
Motion appointing Peter Lizcano as Cm. Jose R. Perez's nominee to the
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report with possible action on the recompletion of the Santa
Isabel Creek test well #1. (Co-sponsored Cm. Mario G. Alvarado).
Cm. Alvarado asked that this item be taken in conjunction with item
G(5) to be considered at the same time.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, gave the following report:
The specific yield of the well was calculated in anticipation of the
perforation of the secondary aquifer in the formation. The specific
capacity relates the well output to the drawdown, which is the
difference in the water level before pumping and under pumping at
steady conditions. The Santa Isabel well specific yield is 0.4368
gpm per foot of drawdown, or an output of 110 gpm for a level drop of
288.75 ft.
The performation of the secondary zone by Woods Drilling is scheduled
for the week of March 24, 1997. Following the job the well will be
developed once more, and the specific yield calculated to evaluate
the effect of the work done.
In order to offer fire fighting water to the area, the Utilities
Department has pumped approximately 200,000 gallons of water into the
tank at the site, and set the pumps to work automatically upon a red
fire hydrant being opened at the well site. No other fire hydrants
are active since we cannot put untreated water in the lines. The
hydrants will be active once the reverse osmosis system is working
and the grid open for public distribution.
On the reverse osmosis unit, the contractor has informed us that the
treatment plant will be ready in mid April. Most of the work pending
involves electrical instrumentation. Start up activities will be
scheduled as soon as the plant is operational.
Two individuals, Mr. Riley and Mr. Asmussen, have requested
permission to extend an eight-inch line to their respective
properties. This water is to be used for residential purposes and
the properties are in part within the 1,000 ft. band annexed along
the Mines Road during the Laredo Colombia bridge construction. To
serve the portion outside the city limits we will have to ask the
individuals to annex, or the City Council will have to extend a
special dispensation by ordinance.
Cm. Bruni requested that once the perforation of the secondary zone
is done, that a flow test be conducted immediately and that a report
be given to council on what our yield is and how dramatically it is
going to affect the GPM's per minute.
2. Discussion and possible action concerning the waiving of tipping fees
to Southern Sanitation on Saturdays for the month of April to aid in
the Colonias "Clean-up" effort.
A letter was received from Mary Nelda Barrera, Field Represent-ative
for the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, asking for
council's support on their 2nd Annual Colonia Clean Up Day during the
month of April. The project will include the colonias along Highway
359, El Cenizo, Rio Bravo, and Larga Vista.
Mayor Ramirez stated this is an effort that we can endorse and
embrace, the only request that he would ask is that if we are going
to waive the tipping fees, that one fee not be waived and that is the
$1.25 that is charged by the state.
Motion to proceed with the project, and having staff coordinate this
with Nelda Barrera so that she can make everyone aware of the
separation of trash and that all tipping fees that are charged by the
state be covered by a third party or another interested party in
order for this to work.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion and possible action concerning the initiation of a traffic
flow study around Ryan Elementary School and Lamar Middle School and
to make specific recommendations on how to improve traffic flows.
Robert Murillo, Traffic Engineer, stated that eight (8) months ago
they had started a study and gave several suggestions to the LISD
staff on Nixon, Milton, Alma Pierce, and Zachry.
Motion to instruct staff to provide a traffic flow study around Ryan
Elementary School and Lamar Middle School and make specific
recommendations on how to improve traffic flows in these two schools
and that the Police Department monitors traffic flows.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Presentation by Ray Campbell of Hydromizer concerning the use of a
water saving device.
Mr. Campbell, President of Hydromizer, stated that they have a
flapper device that would save water in the toilet tank and can avoid
water loss.
Cm. Bruni suggested that Mr. Campbell gets together with staff
for a demonstration and the possibility of placing them in city
properties.
D. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. "Poncho" Casso
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the St. Petersburg, Florida
trip with respect to the COPS Program.
Cm. Casso wanted feedback from council on these issue. He stated it
was his understanding that they took this trip to Arizona because the
Police Consultants that were hired in the past said they had
implemented this program in Arizona and it turned out that it was not
true that they had never heard about these
consultants. He has not been able to verify that nor has he had time
to go back and look at the videos to see if they had made that
statement before this council. Nevertheless, they have not received
a report regarding the Arizona trip, he does not know what they did
over there, nothing has been seen from the Police Department or from
staff. He wants some type of information from the Arizona trip.
Cm. Guerra stated that their trip to Arizona was a good trip, they
saw the COPS Program in action, although it was very basic and
somewhat limited more or less in the same lines as the one we have
implemented here. They have it in certain neighbor-
hoods and it has not been implemented citywide yet, basically they
are at the same speed that we are here.
Mayor Ramirez suggested that instead of looking at the St.
Petersburg, Florida trip if they would allow him to contact the U.S.
Conference of Mayors to see where they have a full flesh cops
programs in effect throughout the country which have had success
ratios. They could provide them with cities that have such full
flesh cops programs that have been implemented and have been
functioning for a few years, then from that list perhaps make a
selection as to where anybody might want to go to see a full cops
program in operation.
Mr. Pena stated that's what the Police Department did in Tempe,
Arizona and in St. Petersburg. The trip in Tempe helped them
understand that we are at grade or above grade in terms of the COPS
Program because we are doing geographic deployment. He added we have
four areas and they only have one. St. Peters-
burg has a citywide program but it does not have a geographic
deployment. They do have one Sgt. or Officer assigned to one
district.
Interim Chief Dovalina stated they made inquiries of other cities on
their COPS Program including the Tempe people and had submitted a
report. Eluding to what Cm. Casso mentioned he asked in reference to
the Chief of Police being there and they had no idea who Mayo and
Murphy were. He continued by saying that the city of St. Petersburg
has a citywide implementation of community policing services that has
been in effect since 1990. They have a rather different variation of
what community policing services we have here, but that was another
reason why they went ahead and wanted to view that program. They
have been working diligently with the community policing program, to
come up with an overall three year plan and on how to expand these
services, whether it is cost prohibited or cost effective to continue
a full blown implementation program.
Cm. Perez suggested that they look at different variations of
programs for chosing purposes.
Cm. Alvarado stated the whole thing here is looking at the expense
and trying to implement it is as a citywide program.
He added that their might have been some misrepresentation on behalf
of the consultants that came in to do the police work, if that is
true he has a great concern and suggested that this task be given to
staff and the Chief of Police.
Cm. Casso stated that there were four dates when Mayo and Murphy were
here, Feb. 5, 1996, June 5, 1995, July 17, 1995 and June 19, 1995,
they were paid approximately $175,000.00. Their primary task was to
come in here and to implement the COPS program. He added that they
didn't do a very good job because we still had to go out of town to
get more information and get better educated on this program. He
then hears that Arizona had never heard about these people and was
very concerned about it because in his opinion this is
misrepresentation of facts, if they did say they went to Arizona.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding Bridge Revenues.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the request for RFP's for
contract operations of the Utilities Department.
Cm. Casso wanted council's support on going out for RFP's. He said
some cities have paid more than $100,000.00 to get RFP's done, if
they gave staff enough time and they get some sample RFP's from
various companies that are in this type of business,
we can do something without any commitment. We can get four
companies to do that and it is going to cost these companies about
$50,000 to come here setup and do a study. We will get about a
quarter of a million dollars worth of studies to find out exactly
what we are doing. If PSG says they could set us a million, he has
been talking to other companies that say if that's all they can save
us, then we are doing an excellent job and there is no point in even
trying to contract out. Some companies say they can save us $3
million so we should find out, they say they will come out here and
do an analysis, they will tell us how much power each motor is
pulling, and if that is the kind of report we will get, he thinks it
will assist us and there is no commitment on our part and we don't
have to contract with them. He added that if we were to contract and
if we are going to lay employees off he would be opposed to it.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, reported that council asked for
three things:
1) To produce a study showing a view of the industry what we can
expect and especially the treatment of employees, the maintenance of
facilities and the level of savings.
He has been working on this, he has a draft report to present to
council within 30 days as a final report and has to discuss with Mr.
Pena the final points to iron out and come up with a unified opinion.
2) That they get a sample of RFP's from other cities.
He has six (6) or seven (7) RFPs from other cities ranging from
Houston to Oklahoma City. They even produced a sample RFP that tries
to simplify the process, there are two main avenues that can be
pursed in trying to pursue this one. (1) Is that if they try an
select a company based on qualifications then all they do is
basically tell them come in and tell us how you can do this, present
a technical approach, we look at their financial sheets, and other
factors, plus see what savings they can produce. (2) The second
avenue should be a precursor to the agreement to the contract so it
needs to be prepared in great detail, something that needs to be
invested time and money
to make sure we didn't leave things on the side that should have been
addressed specifically the maintenance of the facilities.
3) To comply a list of cities that we could visit as a group prior to
making the decision.
He has three cities, three are out of state that because of the size
and complex operation would resemble Laredo. Three are in the State
of Texas which are very small, but Texas really hasn't opened up to
contract operations in a large scale except Houston.
He added that on his report he will put the good/bad experiences that
the people in Houston and Corpus have not decided to add at all.
In the meantime, they have talked to four companies and four
engineering firms who are offering to coach staff to go into
something called managed competition for a fee. The range goes from
$40,000-$200,000. They come in and teach staff to improve the
efficiency of operations specifically at the treatment plants
(water/wastewater plants) they don't operate the system, they just
simply offer to produce a study and they push them in with their new
knowledge and you come up with a savings.
Finally, one thing they have been exploring is staff grievance
savings, what can we do if we decided not to do this. If they can
present a budget that is 5% less than last year, will we have an
impact or we don't have an impact. Simply to be able to open the
doors to the three main ideas in this arena and that when council
makes a decision to privatize or not privatize that they can look at
all the possibilities.
Mr. Roman wants that time be given to continue working on this and if
the company is serious about coming in at no cost and teaching us
something, he will pick them up.
Mayor Ramirez suggested they wait after the 30 day report that Mr.
Roman is finishing and at that point after the report is completed,
then instruct staff to proceed according to whatever final analysis
they have come up with.
E. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action concerning the development of a city
ordinance training program for patrol officers.
(Co-sponsored by Cm. Joe A. Guerra)
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Police Chief, reported that they conducted
an in service training for new police officers as they come in
immediately after the academy training. The course consists of city
ordinances and it's a 12-hour set-up
in the course where they teach them about pertinent city ordinances
that they are empowered to go ahead and enforce including the curfew,
the truck route, the tow truck ordinance, the taxicab, the fireworks.
A handbook is issued to each officer containing pertinent ordinances.
The officers are also instructed in the ordinances, in our general
manual which they are empowered to enforce. Whenever there are
amendments they are briefed in the briefing sessions. Right now what
they are doing with the legal advisor is setting up continued
training in ordinances together with the training division to keep
this officers updated. The training is ongoing, but now they are
incorporating the legal advisor to go ahead and assist.
2. Discussion and possible action concerning the development of a
notification system to let citizens know that a specific department
has looked into their certain concern.
Cm. Alvarado requested that some type of software be purchased or
notification system be developed that would notify the citizen that
their complaint has been followed through and results if available.
Cm. Guerra suggested that the council be reported on the status of
any complaint in their district.
Mr. Pena stated that they will develop a system.
F. Requests by Councilmember Joe A. Guerra
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the construction of
sidewalks along Sandy Lane and Lindenwood leading to Trautman Middle
School so that the parents and students do not have to walk on the
street.
Cm. Guerra stated that District VI does not qualify for CDBG funds so
this would have to be done in-house.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that the sidewalks is 100% in
non CDBG, with the school district its 50/50 match, in CDBG areas we
pay if they qualify.
Mayor Ramirez requested that staff provide a cost estimate for the
next meeting.
2. Discussion and possible action to construct Gallagher Street between
Hillside and Calton Road with property owner's donation of right-of-
way.
City Manager Florencio Pe¤a informed the council that a report will
be ready by the next council meeting.
3. Discussion and possible action to re-name a street Gust Street in
honor of Mr. Gust (WW II Hero). (Co-sponsored by Cm. Louis H. Bruni)
Cm. Guerra requested to place this request in our street name
inventory for the next available new street.
G. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Approval of my nominee, Sandra Rocha Taylor to the Parks and
Recreation Advisory Board.
Motion to appoint Sandra Rocha Taylor to the Parks and Recreation
Advisory Board.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Presentation to Guerra Communications for their community involvement
with the "Toys for Tejanitos Project."
Belinda Guerra from Guerra Communications was publicly congratulated
by Cm. Alvarado and Mayor Ramirez presented her with an appreciation
award on behalf of all the council.
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the yearly Mothers Day
Concert sponsored by the City.
Motion to approve the sponsorship by the City of Laredo.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Status on pending right-of-way issues regarding the warehouse located
on Mann Road and Riverside with possible Executive Session pursuant
to Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to discuss pending
litigation, City of Laredo vs. Makro Business International Inc.,
Cause No. C-94-773-D3, in the 341st District Court of Webb County,
Texas.
Jerry Cain, Interim City Attorney, stated that matter was filed in
1994 over an encroachment of one of our streets. They got an agreed
judgement on the matter, it has been signed The judgement called for
certain things to be done and the engineers are about to conclude an
agreement with the property owners.
Cm. Alvarado wanted to know the time frame on this issue.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated that they had problems locating
the owner, Mr. Posada from Mexico City, but finally they got in
contact with local engineer that he hired. He did express some
concerns on some of the items that were presented in the plat that
the engineer had. Later on he said he would go back and forward a
letter with his concerns and he did, they already have those and are
now in a stage where they can move ahead and make those changes in
the plat and then move to finalize it by the end of the month, but he
does not have a time frame on their engineers.
Mayor Ramirez stated if we are looking at approximately 120 days for
all the process.
Cm. Alvarado stated this issue has been going on since 1994 do we
have a time frame or do we force the issue?
Mayor stated that we are already in a point where they are coming
back with a recommendation, if we don't receive anything within 60
days that this item be brought back as an agenda item and at that
time if we have to go back to court to say that they are not moving
then we'll go back to court.
5. Request to have staff research and make a recommendation on
establishing a water point at the Santa Isabel Water Well.
(Co-sponsred by Cm. Loius H. Bruni)
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, reported that the request by Cm.
Alvarado to research the possibility of installing a water point in
the vicinity of the well will be investigated. Main factors will be
the traffic safety aspects of installing a facility on the Mines
Road, the possibility of extending a line on one of the gravel roads,
and the operation of the water point by the County.
Rose Gonzalez of Pe¤itas invited Council to a meeting that will be
held where they will be discussing problems and concerns that
residents of the area have.
Elvira Morales representing residents at Pe¤itas, Pico Road and along
the Mines area stated their main concern was the truck trailer
hazardous area where the well is located and the upcoming summer
where health hazards will arise due to mosquitos and heat because it
is very hard to get access to the point where it is located at now.
Mayor Ramirez stated they will work with the county to see how they
can help and extend it.
XI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
45. Public hearing approving an amendment to the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and budget in the amount of $256,499.00 for the
HIV/STD Ryan White Care Consortium Project of the City of Laredo
Health Department for the period beginning April 1, 1997, through
March 31, 1998.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving a contract with the Texas Department of Health and
budget in the amount of $256,499.00 for the HIV/STD Ryan White Care
Consortium Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for the
period beginning April 1, 1997, through March 31, 1998; and increase
revenue line item 226-0000-323-4051 from $0 to $256,499.00 and
expenditure line item 226-6060 from $0 to $256,499.00; and authorizing
the City Manager to execute the contract.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
46. Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97 annual budget by
increasing the general fund revenues by $1,325,000.00 and
appropriating $1,325,000.00 to the Telecommunications Department be
used to allocate a $125,000.00 line item for administrative reserves
fund and $1,200,000.00 for reimbursable expenses in the reserve line
item and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97 annual budget by
increasing the general fund revenues by $1,325,000.00 and
appropriating $1,325,000.00 to the Telecommunications Department be
used to allocate a $125,000.00 line item for administrative reserves
fund and $1,200,000.00 for reimbursable expenses in the reserve line
item and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
XII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Mass Transit
Board.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
for the following:
a) 15 UHF 100 watt mobile radios
b) 15 Emergency foot switch
c) 15 Handset microphones
d) 15 Transit Antennas UHF97
This equipment will be required for each new bus that will have a
radio. A tentative bid award is scheduled for April 21, 1997.
Motion to approve bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Approval of contract with GFI, Genfare in the amount of $65,500.00 for
the purchase of 15 GFI CENTSaBILL Fareboxes. The Fareboxes are for
use on the 15 new CNG buses scheduled for delivery at the end of June
1997. GFI is the sole source for such equipment.
Motion to approve contract with GFI, Genfare in the amount of
$65.500.00 for the purchase of 15 GFI CENTSaBILL Fareboxes.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Adopting the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy for the Laredo
Municipal Transit System.
Motion adopting the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy for the Laredo
Municipal Transit System.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
50. Adopting the revised Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program and
Goals.
Motion adopting the revised Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
and Goals.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Supporting the proposal to the Texas Department of Transportation to
host the 1998 Texas Public Transportation Conference in Laredo.
Motion supporting the proposal to the Texas Department of
Transportation to host the 1998 Texas Public Transportation
Conference in Laredo.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Mass Transit Board and convene as the City
Council.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Adjournment time: 9:00 P.M.
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 32 ARE TRUE
COMPLETE AND CORRECT PROCEEDING OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE
17TH DAY OF MARCH, 1997. A COPY IS ON FILE AT THE
CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY