CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M97-R-20 JUNE 16, 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, Jr. 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, " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
CONSUELO MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
FLORENCIO PENA, III, CITY MANAGER
JAIME L. FLORES, CITY ATTORNEY
ABSENCES:
MARIO ALVARADO, COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT VII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
Note: Cm. Alvarado was excuse from today's absence at a
previous meeting. (June 2, 1997)
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. City Council Meeting of May 19, 1997
City Council Meeting of May 27, 1997
COPS Workshop May 29, 1997
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cw. Moreno was not present.)
Motion to waive the rules of order and move items #31,
37.A(1)(2), #25, XI.B(1), E(4), C(1), #51, and 28.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cw. Moreno came in at 5:45 p.m.)
Motion to waive the rules and move item XI.A(3)(4).
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
3. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey the "Surface Only" of Lot 2,
Block 2165-A, Eastern Division, as per replat recorded in
Volume 16, Page 93, of the Webb County Plat Records, City of
Laredo, County of Webb, Texas, also known to be located on
the 2400 block of Diaz Street to Jesus Javier Martinez and
providing for an effective date. Said property is being
sold to the highest bidder as accepted by City Council
pursuant to public sale of this property on May 28, 1997.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey fee simple title to Cesar J.
Cabello and Amparo A. Cabello for the sale of the "Surface
Only" of a 0.3543 of an acre (15,433.46 square feet) tract
of land being out of and a part of the former Martin Avenue
between Laredo and Guadalupe Streets, also known as the 1200
block of Martin Avenue and providing for effective date.
Said property being sold to the highest bidder as accepted
by City Council pursuant to public sale of this property on
May 28, 1997.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinance #97-O-108,
#97-O-127, and #97-O-128.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. 97-O-108 Ordinance authorizing the adoption of the following
rates to be charged by EL METRO for public parking
at the Laredo Transit Center, 1300 Farragut Street,
Laredo, Texas, and for miscellaneous fees related
to contract parking.
* The rate for daily parking shall be $.75 per
hour, or portion thereof, subject to a daily
maximum of $6.00.
* The contract parking rate shall be $40.00 per
month. $25.00 shall be charged for the initial
month of a contract if it begins on or after the
16th day of the month. Otherwise, no proration
of the monthly rate shall apply at either the
beginning or end of a contract term.
* In addition to the rate for contract parking, the
following fees shall apply:
a. Refundable key deposit: $10.00
b. Replacement charge for damaged key $10.00
c. Replacement charge for lost key $25.00
This ordinance provides for publication and an
August 1, 1997 effective date.
(As amended) (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-108.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. 97-O-127 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute
all necessary documents to effectively convey fee
simple title to Marcel C. Notzon, II and wife Nora
Lee Notzon for the sale at fair market value of
"The Surface Only" of certain properties described
as being 0.3542 of an acre (15,432 square feet)
more or less of a tract of land out of the former
South Buena Vista Avenue between Chacota and Tinaja
Streets, also known as the 2600 block of South
Buena Vista Avenue; and a 0.3542 of an acre (15,432
square feet) more or less of a tract of land out of
the former Chacota Street between South Buena Vista
and Tapeyste Avenues, also known as the 1800 block
of Chacota Street, situated in the Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas,
providing for an effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-127.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. 97-O-128 Ordinance authorizing the abandonment and vacating
of a 17.7 wide alley dedicated for public use in
Block 893, Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas, which traverses the middle of said
block from east to west through its entire length,
and abuts the north side of Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,
and 12, and abuts the south side of Lots 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, and 6, and providing for the reversion of the
public's interest in said alley to the abutting
landowners, and providing for an effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-128.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. RESOLUTIONS
8. 97-R-061 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept a
grant from the Governor's Office for funding of
personnel and direct operating expenses for a
Multi-Agency Narcotics Task Force in the amount of
$711,562.00, with the City designating $370,905.00
in matching funds for a total of $1,082,467.00 for
the period beginning June 1, 1997 and ending May
31, 1998 and authorizing the City Manager to sign
any and all documents pertaining to this grant
application. This will be the 11th year of funding
for this grant.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-O61.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 97-R-062 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit
an application to the Federal Aviation
Administration to request that the Laredo
International Airport continue to participate in
the Military Airport Program (MAP) for a subsequent
five year period beyond FY 1997. The Military
Airport Program provides grant assistance to
participating airports for conversion and capacity
related projects. Laredo International Airport,
formerly Laredo Air Force Base is an eligible
airport first approved for MAP participation during
1993. The City's application requests $96.4 million
funding assistance over a five-year period.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-062.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 97-R-063 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit
an application to the Texas Natural Resource
Conservation Commission for a grant in the amount
of $49,922.07, for continuation of the City of
Laredo's used oil collection and recycling program
for the period from October 1, 1997 through
September 30, 1998.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-063.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 97-R-064 Resolution expressing the position of the City
Council that the current membership on the Laredo
Urban Transportation Study Metropolitan Planning
Organization Policy Committee remain as it
currently exists.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-064.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 97-R-065 Declaring the public necessity to acquire the
"Surface Only" of twenty parcels of land for the
Lafayette Street widening project. Said parcels
being Lot 5, Block 881; Lots 1, 2, 3 and 4, Block
882; Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, Block 908; Lots
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, Block 909; the South 46.29
feet of Lots 7 and 8, and all of Lots 9 and 10,
Block 910; all situated in the Western Division of
the City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and
authorizing payments to persons who will be
displaced as a result of the acquisition of those
properties.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-065.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. MOTIONS
13. Authorizing the City Manager to submit an Advancing Community
Policing Grant Application to the U.S. Department of Justice/
Office of Community Oriented Policing Services in the amount
of $250,000.00, for the period of September 1, 1997 through
August 31, 1998.
Mr. Pena stated they are basically asking for one civilian,
not three officers and the rest is all equipment.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. Appointing the members of the City of Laredo/Webb County
Criminal Justice Committee to serve as the Advisory Board for
the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Program. This
committee consists of representatives from the Laredo Police
Department; Laredo Independent School District, United
Independent School District; the Texas Department of Human
Services; the District Attorney's Office; Sheriff's
Department; Community Supervision Corrections Department;
Juvenile Probation Department; and County Commissioner's
Court. The board will make nonbinding recommendations for the
proposed use of funds received under this program and there
must be at least one public hearing regarding the use of
these funds.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids for the following:
a) safety footwear - all departments
b) janitorial equipment - Airport Department
A tentative bid award is scheduled for
July 21, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Approve the bid specifications for the proposed public sale
of two approximate 3.0 acres tracts of Airport Fund non-
aeronautical use land located at the Laredo International
Airport and authorizing the City Manager to solicit bids from
the public. The subject property is bounded by Saunders Hwy
59 on the south, Bartlett to the east, San Pedro to the north
and the new Mercy Regional Medical Center Hospital to the
west. The appraised value of Tract No. 1 is $1,484,000.00
and $918,000.00, for Tract No. 2.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs)
to provide Professional Engineering and/or Surveying Services
for Cells 9 and 10 of the City of Laredo Type I Landfill
located on Texas Highway 359 and to include engineering
design, preparation of plans and specifications with cost
estimates, construction quality assurance, boundary and
topographic surveying as required for compliance with the
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission's Subtitle D
Requirements of 30 TAC 330 Municipal Solid Waste Regulations.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Authorizing the City Manager to request proposals from
financial institutions interested in providing permanent
mortgage financing of up to $40,000.00, per unit to
qualifying low income homebuyers for the Los Obispos
Affordable Housing Project, Phase I which consists of the
construction of 50 single family units.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Pumps Unlimited Inc.,
Co., San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $22,274.00, for the
purchase of one submersible sewage pump for the Utilities
Department. This replacement pump will be installed at the
Zacate Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant's bifilter pump
station. Delivery is expected within sixteen weeks. Funding
is available in the Utilities Department - Wastewater
Treatment Division. A total of 3 bids were received.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Chaparral Ford, Inc.,
Devine, Texas, in the amount of $47,811.00, for the purchase
of one 1/2 ton extended cab truck ($23,111.74) for the Public
Works Department and one truck ($24,699.85) for the Risk
Management Fund. These vehicles will be equipped with CNG
bi-fuel fueling systems. Funding is available in the
department's capital outlay budget. Delivery is anticipated
within ninety days. A total of 3 bids were received for the
1/2 ton Extended Cab Truck and a total of 3 bids were
received for the truck.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Unisource, Corpus
Christi, Texas, in the amount of $23,500.00, for the purchase
of 500,000 plastic bags for use in the City's Recycling
Program. The per unit price is the $0.002/bag less than the
previous contract purchase. A total of five bids were
received. Funding is available in the Landfill/Recycling
Trust Fund budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER MEETING SPECIFICATIONS,
Industrial International, Inc., Helotes, Texas, in the
estimated amount of $56,926.00, for the purchase of
approximately eighty fire hydrants for use by the Utilities
Department in construction and replacement projects. The bid
pricing will be fixed for the six month contract period and
all hydrants will be purchased on an as need basis. The bid
pricing is approximately 8% higher than the previous contract
period. Funding is available in the Utilities Department -
Water Transmission/Distribution Division Account. A total of
3 bids were received.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Award of contract to Micron Electronics Inc., Namp, Idaho, a
State of Texas Qualified Information System Vendor, in the
amount of $43,678.00, for the purchase of twenty four
personal computers for the Police Department's Financial Task
Force. State grant funding will be used to purchase these
computers. This purchase is contingent upon authorization
from the HIDTA Director. Staff is recommending purchasing
these computers through the State of Texas - Catalogue
Purchase Program. Funding is available in the Financial Task
Force 1996-1997 Grant - Capital Outlay.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Award of a contract to Danny R. Anderson Consultants, Inc.,
Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $45,805.00 to
provide Laboratory, Sampling and Testing Services of
materials for quality control for the Laredo International
Airport Passenger Terminal and Related Airside/Landside
Improvements Phase "C" which includes access road, parking
lots, concrete drives, brick pavers, sanitary sewer and water
system, irrigation, landscaping, and site lighting. Funding
is available in Inspection Fees Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Selection of seven (7) Professional Architectural/
Engineering (A/E) contracts and authorization for the City
Manager to negotiate professional Architectural/Engineering
fees to provide surveying, design and preparation of plans
and specifications for the City of Laredo Capital
Improvements Projects for the FY 96-97 as follows:
1. Fire Fighting Facility to Mejia Engineering Company.
Funding is available in Fire Training Facility Fund
Engineering Fees Account.
2. International Bridge No. 1 Pavement Reconstruction at
Approaches, Phase I to Foster Engineering. Funding is
available in Bridge Fund Construction Project Import Lot
Line Item.
3. Construction of sidewalks along Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) Residential Neighborhood to connect to
local schools to G.G. Salinas Engineering Company.
Funding is available in Community Development Fund Street
Improvements Sidewalk Line Item.
4. Relocation of utilities and/or adjustments in conjunction
with Texas Department of Transportation's proposed
widening of U.S. 59 between San Dario and Ejido to Porras
Engineering. Funding is available in Water Fund 94
Construction Bond Utility Relocation TxDOT.
5. 16-Inch water line on Highway 359 for the anticipation of
the New Fire Training Facility and for water services to
the colonias to WSBC Civil Engineers. Funding is available
in Water Fund 97 Construction Bond Line Extension Fire
Training Facility.
6. Construction of a facility to house the Department of
Public Works and other City Departments to Sepulveda &
Associates, Inc. Funding is available in the General Fund
Building Rehabilitation.
7. Roof repairs at the Center for the Arts Building to Design
Group International. Funding is available in the General
Fund Reserve Appropriation Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Note: Cm. Guerra voted in favor on all items, except in
item 2 where he abstained.)
26. Approval of change order no. 1, an increase of $10,223.50, to
the construction contract with Brothers Paving, Laredo,
Texas, for Parking Lot Improvements for Three Neighborhood
Centers (Cigarroa, Northeast-Hillside and Tarver) for
additional construction work in conjunction with the
relocation of the south parking lot of the Tarver
Recreational Center to the rear (west side) of the
recreational building in order to provide additional green
space for recreational use by the City and Laredo Independent
School District (LISD). Original contract was for
$100,451.60. This change order will bring the total to
$110,675.10. Funding is available in Recreation Centers -
Improvements Other Than Building Account. Change order no. 1
is a 50% - 50% cost sharing project with Laredo Independent
School District.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Approval of change order no. 2, a decrease of $1,782.28, for
the balance of quantities actually constructed in place and
to add 6.5 blocks that were originally recommended for
reconstruction and instead were recycled and resurfaced for
continuity of construction and to extend their service life
five (5) to ten (10) years, for a final total of 144.00
blocks, acceptance of the 1996-1997 Street Recycling Project,
and approval of final payment in the amount of $39,852.81 to
Cutler Repaving, Inc., Lawrence, Kansas. Original contract
was for $257,803.04. This change order will bring the total
to $267,047.84. Funding is available in Capital Improvements
Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
28. Status report by the City Council appointed Ad Hoc Economic
Development Committee regarding recommendations on how to
proceed regarding the development of a strategic economic
development plan for the city of Laredo, with possible
action.
Mr. Jerry Schwebel, representing the committee, briefed
council and explained that they have gathered and put an
enormous amount of information to put together a strategic
plan. These members have been working with the City Manager
and Richard Perez. They discussed the process and decided
that to accomplish this particular mission, it was important
to incorporate other key members from throughout the
community to assist them in the effort. They invited members
from the Laredo Business Council and Mr. Pena appointed those
members to include Dennis Nixon, Gary Jacobs, Ben Evert,
Larry Norton, Dr. Ramon Dovalina, Dr. Charles Jennett from
TAMIU, J.J. Maloy, Frank Leach, Robert Calton, Robert
Sepulveda, Miguel Conchas, in addition Webb County will be
joining with Mercurio Martinez and Carlos Villarreal.
The process is inclusive, they have begun the process by
seeking TAMIU's technology and Economic Development Division,
and the assistance of CP&L as they develop the plan. The
process will consist of putting together focus groups that
will discuss major issues relevant to our efforts to expand
jobs, improve quality of life, and plan the economic growth
of the City, this is the most important task which will
require input from all sectors of the community. They have
the tools and the individuals to present to council by fall a
set of recommendations that council may consider in the
adoption of an effective plan for economic development.
Mayor Ramirez stated that during the budget process we need
to look at what kind of commitment we are going to have as a
City Council for Economic Development. We need to invest
money now, in the range of $350,000.00 to $500,000.00 for
this coming year to make Economic Development a reality in
our city.
Cm. Alvarado wants a big effort placed to improve our work
force opportunities.
29. Presentation regarding the Community Oriented Policing
Services Program (COPS), with possible action.
Motion to reschedule a workshop Thursday, July 10, 1997 at
5:30 at Council Chambers.
30. Staff report regarding the status of approved and funded
traffic signals, and a presentation of the priority of
warranted traffic signals which are not funded.
Mr. Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, stated they had
prepared a priority list based on the accidents, school
proximity, 24-hour traffic volumes on major street, posted
speed limit on major street and classified those. The
accidents being the number one criteria to be utilized.
The list is as follows:
Intersection Estimated Cost
1. Canones/U.S. 83 $55,000.00
2. Loop 20/New York $45,000.00
3. Loop 20/University Drive $45,000.00
4. Gale/Springfield $45,000.00
5. International/Sta. Maria $45,000.00
6. Buena Vista/U.S. 59 $45,000.00
Mayor Ramirez suggested that these be presented during the
Capital Improvements Plan for the five year program and at
at that time that council proceed accordingly.
It was suggested by several Councilmembers the intersections
mentioned plus other three be included to the list such as
(Masterson/U.S. 83, Del Mar/Loop 20, McPherson/Loop 20) and
that a moratorium be declared on these.
Motion to set a moratorium on the traffic listing study
presented and to include Del Mar/Loop 20, McPherson/Loop 20
and Masterson/U.S. 83 on this year's CIP.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Report providing a status report on the Laredo Northwest
International Bridge (Bridge IV).
Note: This item was taken in conjunction with item #37.A(1)
and #37.A(2).
32. Declaring the "Surface Only" of a 0.44900 of an acre tract of
land, more or less, as surplus property and authorizing City
staff to advertise the public sale or exchange of said tract
of land out of the Freddie Benavides Recreational Complex,
said tract being situated in the Eastern Division 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.
Award of bids for sale or for property exchange will be
presented for City Council consideration at the meeting of
July 21, 1997.
Note: There was no need for executive session on this matter.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Report requesting approval of the projects proposed to be
funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development through the 23rd Action Year Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG), the 1997 HOME Investment
Partnerships Program (HOME), and the 1997 Emergency Shelter
Grant (ESG) for the purpose of identifying them in the 1997
Consolidated Plan. The projects are as follows:
23rd Action Year Community Development Block Grant
($4,372,000)
1. Administration . . . . . . . . . . . $ 561,825
2. House Rehab Admin. . . . . . . . . . $ 132,276
3. Housing Rehab Loan Program . . . . . $ 350,000
4. Code Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . $ 254,830
5. Graffiti Removal Program . . . . . . $ 34,100
6. Lafayette Widening Project Phase I . $1,600,000
7. Gallagher Street Improvements . . . $ 110,000
8. Guadalupe Street Improvements. . . . $ 50,000
9. Zacate Creek Beautification . . . . $ 300,000
10. El Portal Riverfront
Feasibility Study . . . . . . . . . $ 23,000
11. School Approaches Sidewalk Program . $ 307,296
12. Paving Project 60 Grants . . . . . . $ 27,673
* 13. Tinaja/Chacon Creek Pilot Channel
Phase I Engineering . . . . . . . . $ 35,000
14. Paving Project 60 . . . . . . . . . $ 400,000
** 15. Downtown Sidewalk
Curb Construction . . . . . . . . . $ 119,000
16. Paving Project 61 Engineering . . . $ 40,000
Park Improvements
17. East Martin Field Improvements . . . $ 3,000
18. Benavides Softball Complex
Irrigation System . . . . . . . . . $ 10,000
19. Health Department Toddler Park . . . $ 6,000
20. Los Dos Laredo Park Improvements . . $ 4,000
21. Zacate Creek Park
Soccer Field Improvements . . . . . $ 4,000
HOME Investment Partnerships Program 1997 Grant -$1,192,000
1. Downpayment Assistance . . . . . . . $ 700,000
2. New Construction . . . . . . . . . . $ 200,134
3. Community Housing Development
Organizations. . . . . . . . . . . . $ 178,800
4. Administration . . . . . . . . . . . $ 113,066 Estimated
HOME Program Income - $2,000,300
1. New Construction . . . . . . . . . $1,600,300
2. Substantial Rehabilitation . . . . $ 100,000
3. Downpayment Assistance . . . . . . $ 300,000
Emergency Shelter Grant - $115,000
1. Homeless Prevention . . . . . . . $ 34,500
2. Shelter Rehabilitation . . . . . . $ 79,920
3. Administration . . . . . . . . . . $ 580
* It is important to note that Paving Project 60 is estimated
to cost $912,000.00. Of the 24 blocks scheduled to be
paved, 22 are CDBG eligible. In order to award a contract
in Fiscal year 1997-1998, the project may need to be broken
down into two phases. Phase II would be programmed for
Fiscal Year 1998-1999. A list of streets scheduled for
paving is attached.
**Paving Project 61 is estimated to cost $784,000.00, with an
engineering cost of approximately $78,000.00. Of the 28
blocks scheduled to be paved, 24 are CDBG eligible. Staff
propose that $40,000.00, in CDBG funds and $40,000.00, in
non-CDBG funds be allocated in Fiscal Year 1997-1998 for
engineering. Construction of this project would be
scheduled for Fiscal Year 1998-1999.
Erasmo Villarreal of Community Development reported on the
projects and was asking that council concur with the
recommendations made so they can proceed to finish the
document, incorporate it into the document, then allow a
30-day comment period, a public hearing to be held and then
come before council on the first meeting of August for actual
adoption of a plan to submit to HUD.
Cm. Perez was concerned with the projects outlined, he said
last year there was a project (the diversion of the channel)
where staff recommended that this project was no longer
needed. He said that when council defers a project there is
a reason for deferring, we were going to look at all the
enhancements of the area within the past two years. There
was much emphasis on these culverts that would take the water
from that area, but the fact is that nature is funny, those
culverts will be stuck with debri. We know we have crews to
take care of them, the city cannot really come up and
maintain those culverts, and every time it rains he will get
at least a call from the residents fearing the flood areas
and for us to take away that project is like taking away
their security. He was asking that we need the plan and
offer some kind of relief for these residents.
Mayor Ramirez stated that in substitution of the project
mentioned, they have Tinaja/Chacon Creek Pilot Channel. He
questioned, why only Phase I Engineering for $35,000.00 when
we are estimating it is a $350,000.00 project? Why are we
not funding it this year to get it done this year to provide
relief? He also questioned if staff is sure that on item #6
we are going to be committed to $1.6 million this fiscal year
for the widening of Lafayette? Are we going to expand that
money next year, the $1.6 million? He added that the relief
needs to be provided this year.
Cm. Perez stated his project was fully funded last year.
Mayor Ramirez stated that what Mr. Villarreal is saying is
that the most practical solution is item #13 and that council
should consider funding it fully.
Cw. Moreno said she thinks that they should divide the
widening project into a two year program.
Motion to divide the widening project into a two year program
(item #6, the Lafayette Widening Project).
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cw. Moreno stated that in reference to the sidewalks projects
some district have certain needs, but these money is
generated by everybody and everybody has the same needs.
Mayor Ramirez said two things need to be done, that whole
blocks be done especially within the CD areas to start
getting sidewalks around the houses, and that mailboxes be
included in the sidewalk program.
Cm. Bruni expressed that District II has only a small area of
CDGB and was concern that there has been no monies spent in
that area, that finally District II is getting $50,000.00 to
fix the right-of-way of Tex-Mex and pave it. His concern was
that his district does not get any money.
Cm. Casso was concerned with the $1.6 million funds that will
be allocated for the Lafayette widening and expressed that
his district needs sidewalks.
Mayor Ramirez suggested that staff start pulling out all the
blocks with the mapping system that don't have sidewalks,
start looking at them as whole blocks, start paving them, and
start with districts that are contiguous so that way we start
at the borders/boundaries of the districts and work inwards
to put the sidewalks so that both districts start to get the
impact initially and then develop them.
Cm. Bruni stated he did not receive information he requested
as to the breakdown by districts of money spent in each
district in streets and projects.
Mr. Villarreal stated he broke it down by projects in the
last five years, he had the totals and a report was given and
presented to Council.
Motion that the money that has been freed be allocated so
that we fund the Tinaja Creek Project Phase I and that the
additional money be divided for sidewalks in District II,
III, and IV.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Villarreal concluded by saying he will put these
recommendations into place and finish the plan, put the plan
for comment for 30 days and come back to council for public
hearing on all the changes on the second meeting of July and
come back in August for final adoption.
34. Discussion and possible action regarding setting a date of
Saturday, July 26, 1997, from 9:00 am -1:00 pm as the date
for the 1997-1998 Aid to Other Agencies Presentations to be
held at the City Council Chambers.
Motion to set up July 19, 1997 from 9:00 am - 1:00 as the
date for the 1997-1998 Aid to Other Agencies Presentations to
be held at the City Council Chambers.
Moved : Cm. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Discussion and possible action regarding setting a date of
June 24, 1997, to receive a report from the City's airline
consultant regarding the City's efforts to secure jet
service.
Motion to schedule an informal presentation by the
consultants on July 7, 1997 and a formal presentation
before City Council on the same date.
36. Consideration and action regarding unilateral annexation of
certain properties to be effective December 31, 1997. The
three general areas of properties are as follows:
a) Unitec Industrial Park, including a 1000' wide strip along
I.H. 35 from the Union Pacific Port of Laredo up to the
southern boundary of Unitec,
b) Highway 359 strip of underdeveloped properties to the
terminus of the road improvements planned for Highway 359
(approximately 3.48 miles east of Loop 20), and
c) Various "donut hole" areas throughout the City.
Mr. Keith Selman, Planning Director, made the presentation.
(Cm. Perez, Cm. Guerra, Cm. Valdez stepped out. - 8:45 p.m.)
Motion to proceed with item A & B and eliminate item C.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. COMMUNICATIONS
Cw. Moreno wants the Outer Loop subject brought back as an
item for discussion.
Mayor Ramirez thinks it should be brought up in phases and
for staff to prepare a summary of the work done to this
point.
Cw. Moreno also wants the issue of retirees medical benefits
be brought up.
Mr. Pena stated that before next council meeting there should
be a meeting of the committee, so they can present this issue
at the July 7th meeting.
XI. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
37. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr.
1. Presentation by Nuevo Laredo Municipal Officials regarding
the status of their progress on International Bridge III
(Bridge IV).
Sr. Marcos Alejandro Garcia, Presidente Municipal del
Ayuntamiento de Nuevo Laredo and Architecto Jose L. Morales
were before City Council to make a presentation and
summarized the status of the construction on the Mexican
side:
PROJECT UPDATE
* Project execution of the bridge structure
1 - 100% realized by the SCT, Secretaria de Comunicaciones y
Transportes of Mexico; sent to the Laredo City Government for
translation inot english and to study it.
*Project execution of access roads
1 - Bridge access (construction of 5.5 kilometers, 4 lane
highway) project fully developed, 100% by SCT.
2 - Access road MEX-2 (construction of 32.2 kilometers, 4
lane highway, with two overpasses and one crossroad) project
100% developed by SCT.
3 - Airport accesses (widening from 7 meters to 12 meters of
18.5 kilometers of the actual access road to the airport).
Project fully developed, 100% by the Government of the State
of Tamaulipas and the City Government of Nuevo Laredo.
* Project execution of the Border Port
1 - Under development by the State Government of Tamaulipas
and the CABIN, Natioal Commission of Public Building
Appraisals. It is actually 90% developed and is expected to
be finished in July of 1997.
2 - Border Port: The technical and economic proposals for
the development of the study are already received and are
expected to be executed in 8 weeks after June 30th.
* Partial Development Plan
1 - On March 14, 1997 the City Council of Nuevo Laredo
approved the first state regarding theuse of the land.
2 - The document and plans of theuse of the land were
delivered to the Government of the State of Tamaulipas for
its approval and authorization, so it could be later
published in the Official State Newspaper and entered in the
Public Records Registry.
* Right-of-way and construction of the Port
1 - On March 13, 1997 and agreement was signed between the
authorities of Nuevo Laredo and the owners fo the land where
the Port will be located.
* Concession
1 - Granted by the SCT on the 30th of July of 1996 by the
Government of the State of Tamaulipas.
2 - At this moment, the legal decision of the State
Government is pending its decision to forward the concession
to the Municipal Government.
* Works in progress
1 - Highway access to the bridge on route MEX 2, under
construction by the SCT.
Description:
32 kilometers long
4 lanes on two bodies
12 meters wide
Hidraulic concrete, 28 centimeters thick
Crossroads:
On level surface, on road MEX 2, Nuevo Laredo -
Piedras Negras.
Overpasses: on raod NL-1, Nuevo Laredo - Anahuac.
On road MEX-2, Nuevo Laredo - Reynosa.
First State: 2 lanes, one body, west side.
Crossroads:
Nuevo Laredo - Piedras Negras (MEX-2) partial
Nuevo Laredo - Anahuac (NL-1) 2 lanes, one body
Nuevo Laredo - Reynosa (MEX-2), complete.
Cost: $146,500 (on bid)
Construction start: December 30, 1996
Completion: August 31, 1997
Starts: October 1997
Actual advance: 5%, February 1997.
2. Discussion and possible action requesting a status report on
the progress of Laredo's Bridge IV.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, briefed Council on the status
of advancements. It is proposed to use ISTEA funds for the
financing, working with TxDot as well as federal government
to finance approximately $13.5 million. He added that
instead of a tri-party agreement it appears it will only be a
bi-party agreement with the state. The financing with the
state has a few areas that concern the city and has to do
with the transfer of operating funds. Mr. Peter Tart, the
bond counsel, is working with TxDot to work out the
differences. He added that with the exception of that issue,
it seems that all other matters pertaining to the financing
of the bridge do not appear to have a problem. They are
going to their second draft by the first part of August,
1997.
On the design, council awarded a contract to SCA and the
first task was to conduct a survey of the land for the
location, approximately 100 acres, and they have submitted a
survey map. The survey is substantially complete, we should
get the final metes and bounds by the end of this week.
There are two property owners involved in this exchange of
land. The legal staff has prepared the deed to allow for the
transfer to happen. Mr. Pena will be having a meeting this
week with the property owners to discuss how the deed
exchange can occur. The goal is to have these property deeds
by the end of August. He wants to discuss with Council the
desire to proceed with the final design of the structure
itself. They authorized the engineering firm to meet with
the Mexican side in designing the bridge to see if we could
reduce possibly some over-design issues. They have done that
and agreed on the design and does not appear to be an over-
design on it.
The next step is to authorize the engineer to proceed
interpreting those plans into the English language and
finalizing the final design. They are going to negotiate
what that cost is going to be. He advised council to begin
the negotiation with the engineering firm and that we make
certain that we have the land in our possession before we
proceed to spend any large amounts of money in this project.
It will take approximately 3-4 months to get the design
prepared for the bridge, however until we have the land
he would not recommend to proceed with that contract.
He added that on the re-alignment issue, Council opted to
realign the road that would intersect the Fourth
International Bridge, as a result of that TxDot required an
environmental study be to conducted. We have been working
with Parsons since July or August and the goal for them was
to finish the assessment by March, 1997 and they did not meet
the deadline. There were other factors and it appears that
it will be finished until the end of this month which makes
it two or three months behind on the assessment.
Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development, explained that the
Environmental Assessment was behind because the alignment of
the roads. An additional alignment came out which is a
fourth type of alignment on this area and that was not
originally included in the study so they had to amend their
contract to amend Phase II. Everything on this environmental
assessment, on all alignments from 3464 and 1,000 ft. south
should be totally completed. The firm has completed the
archaeological, noise study, and traffic studies. Some
studies have been submitted to TxDot for their review and
comments. Currently documents still pending completion which
should be completed by the end of this months are the major
investment study. Still pending is the determination for the
alternative comparison given that all factors have been
analyzed on the environmental assessment study. He explained
the process procedures that the environmental study is
submitted to Transportation and Federal Highway Commission
there is a 30-day comment period, public hearing must be held
on this environmental assessment. They are estimating by the
time this process takes place and reviews are done by both
agencies and the process is ended, they anticipate that this
process will by completed by the end of August.
Mr. Pena stated that this environmental assessment is on the
re-alignment, not the bridge and TxDot will be the body
that will be deciding the alignment issue. They are hoping
not to get significant impact and that Texas Department of
Transportation will rule on the issue of re-alignment. He
added that the property in question is the right-of-way issue
which is the same property owner that owns the majority of
the land at the bridge. There have been discussion regarding
his concerns that if certain alignment issues are not the way
he has requested, he in fact will not be donating the land at
the bridge head.
Mayor Ramirez stated that Council has gone on record
supporting the new alignment, that is the position of council
and it has not changed. There is no reason why the delay of
deeds or the exchange of deeds should not take place.
Mr. Pena stated the primary conditions that were needed in
order for the U.S. to agree to the exchange of diplomatic
notes as follows:
1) Provide them with financial proposal.
2) That we determine who the operator of the bridge is.
3) That the right-of-way and the land on the bridge be
donated or that the City have possession of it.
4) That a construction package be provided to them which
would show a timeline of the design, contracting, opening
of bids, and award of contract.
He added that if they get the four items done by September
there is no reason why the diplomatic notes cannot be
exchanged. The right-of-way needs to be resolved, as far as
diplomatic action, the action required is the approval of the
diplomatic notes.
Motion to reaffirm the position of the City Council as it
relates to the right-of-way necessary for the access road to
the facility itself, to instruct staff to proceed to
negotiate the price for the translation for this bridge
and to proceed with this translation as soon as possible.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso wants staff to provide Council with a timeline
regarding environmental assessment, public hearings, right-
of-way, construction timeline, the exchange of the diplomatic
notes and then after that get together with the Mexican
counterparts and have them provide their timelines to put
them together to see where we are at.
Mr. Pena stated that assuming that everything is complete,
approved and everything works well the dates will be
somewhere between December 1997 optimisticly and in the worst
case scenario by July 1998.
Mayor Ramirez stated that the translation of the bridge
structure has to take place anyway, plus that we proceed in
commitments to have the property because the environmental
assessment has been cleared for 100 acres. What has not been
cleared is the right-of-way between IH-35 and the Mines Road
and he does not think that the property owners would have any
problems in stipulating in the deeding of the property that
it would only be subject to change as a result of a
environmental assessment that shows a significant impact that
would not allow us to proceed with construction in that
right-of-way.
Cm. Valdez stated that he has the impression that we are
far behind compared to the Mexican Counterparts in
construction and that he would like a timeline schedule side
by side to see what needs to be done so that we can catch up
to make sure we are approaching the start up date at the same
time.
3. Presentation by the Laredo Delegation regarding the
President's Summit on America's Future held in Philadelphia
from April 26-30, 1997, and their ongoing activities, with
possible action.
Mr. Jose Luis Gutierrez, Executive Director of Communities in
Schools, announced he was appointed President for the South
Texas International Summit Committee representing Laredo in
the South Texas area. He submitted Council information
packet put together by the organization that participated in
the gathering of information. When they went to the summit
they went strong and unified delegation, worked closely
together, met 13 or 14 times a day, and when they showed up
to the President's Summit out of 100 cities invited they were
the only city that had a packet and information together. In
the last few weeks they have been called by the State of
Texas that want to use them as a showcase in the Texas State
Summit. They are planning a retreat, scheduled for June
28th. He was before Council asking for commitment in being
there and for financial support.
Rose Mary Welch stated the Summit is organized on the
proposition that America's young people must have access
to five fundamental resources that can help them lead
healthy, fulfilling and productive lives:
1. An ongoing Relationship with a Caring Adult: Mentor,
Tutor, Coach.
2) Safe places and structured activities during non-school
hours to learn and grow.
3. Marketable skills through effective education.
4. A healthy start
5. An opportunity to give back.
Mayor Ramirez said they look forward to committing themselves
not only verbally, but financially and making sure that this
obligation is met in developing one of the first mentor
programs for this initiate.
4. Congratulating 18 year old Oscar J. Leal, Jr., for his
exemplary academic and military accomplishments.
Recognition was made to Oscar J. Leal, Jr., for his exemplary
academic and military accomplishments, son of Mrs. Sylvia
Rodriguez and recently graduate from U.S. Marines. At age 18
he has been promoted as Lance Corporal in the U.S. Marines.
He was recognized because he is a fine example of not just
what he can do, but what Mrs. Rodriguez as a single parent
has done in raising her son and creating a good citizen
representing the community.
B. Requests by Councilmember Jose R. Perez
1. Presentation by Hector Farias on developing a landfill in
partnership with the City and private enterprises, with
possible action.
Mr. Hector Farias introduced Mr. Carlos Mejia who made a
presentation and proposal to the City. He said the project
is that of a South Texas Regional Waste Management Project.
The project would be to construct a new state-of-the art
sanitary landfill to be constructed south of La Salle County
between Encinal and Cotulla. The proposal is to form a
public/private partnership between the City to join the
city's needs and advance the quality of waste management and
environment in the border region. The team is lead by a
local firm Farias & Farias, Inc. who have joined with CES
Environmental Projects, Inc. and have invited Mejia Engineer
to be the local firm, they are in the process of establishing
an office at La Posada.
Mr. Jim Barker, President of CES Environmental Projects,
Inc., the Principal Partner, Project Developer and Manager,
explained the problems facing Laredo on the depletion of
landfill capacity. The rapid growth and urban population and
use of landfill sludge disposal is shortening the expected
life of the City's landfill and the rapidly rising cost of
landfill.
The proposal to the City as a partner in the project, the
City would close its landfill and replace it with a transfer
station, and dispose of all municipal solid waste (MSW) and
water and wastewater treatment sludge at the new landfill,
which is outside the Rio Grande watershed and easily
accessible from Interstate Highway 35 or the Union Pacific
Railroad.
In return for a long-term commitment by the City of the waste
generated within Laredo and delivered from other sources to
the new transfer station, the Project will:
1) Discount disposal fees and share project revenues with the
City.
2) Enter into a contract that provides for 20 years of
disposal service for a fixed price that escalates annually
based on the CPI, and that gives the City up to 20
additional years through four 5-year extension options.
3) Build the new transfer station on City-owned land near the
existing MRF.
The project includes a new landfill designed to meet or
exceed RCRA Subtitle D standards, one or more transfer
stations, and potential railhaul from the north, south and
east. He spoke of the site location, 525 acres of
undeveloped land within 100 kilometers of the Rio Grande
River, north of the northern edge of the Rio Grande
watershed.
He explained the financing, the project will be privately
owned and operated. The debt portion of Project financing
may include industrial development bonds or NADBank loans.
However, there will be no public obligation for the debt.
Disposal fees, the "gate fee" at the new landfill will be
set at market rates for private landfills that conform to
Subtitle D standards. However, the Project will charge the
City deeply discounted rates for waste and sludge it delivers
under long-term contract MSW: $35 per ton and Sludge $25
per cubic yard. For outside waste delivered to the city's
new transfer station from sources outside Laredo, the user
fee charged by the City would be set so that the City would
received net revenues of $20 per ton after paying
transportation and transfer operating costs and landfill fee.
He also explained the revenue sharing, the economic
objective, the project primary roles and responsibilities,
the advantages such as cost, secure disposal capacity,
insulation from regulation, protection of the Rio Grande,
land use, environmental leadership, leverage of private
industry, municipal jobs, and recycling.
They were requesting that council pass a resolution that
supports the project as described and establish a committee
to negotiate, within a specific time frame, a letter of
intent to enter into a contract that reflects, and is
consistent with, the substance of the foregoing presentation
and proposal.
Cw. Montalvo asked if they had the approval of the residents
of the area and questioned in reference to the transporting
to the site.
Mr. Barker stated there are no residents in the immediate
vicinity, there are no residents within two miles of the
site. The waste is trucked in large trailers, then you
either do it in vehicles of your own or you would more likely
contract with someone to deliver the waste to the site.
Cm. Casso stated if the bottom line is to close the our
landfill, replace it with a transportation, what is the cost?
Then they want us to dispose of the MSW and transfer to this
new landfill outside the Rio Grande Watershed which is
accessible through IH-35 or the railroad, what will that cost
be to the city, the advantages and disadvantages of this
project.
Mayor Ramirez stated we need a further analysis on cost
comparison.
Mr. Pena stated that in the area of solid waste the city has
been very progressive since 1988 when we acquired the 200
acres, the city has an application pending with TNRCC
regarding vertical expansion of our landfill to extend the
life of the landfill 20 years more. Our cost to run the
landfill now is $17 a ton, they are proposing to do it at $35
a ton, but if you add the cost of transporting and operating
transfer facility you are talking about adding a least $10 a
ton which in total is $45 per ton compared to our $17 per
ton. We are currently in compliance and we have a long term
plan for the use of that facility.
Mayor Ramirez stated that they should not close the door to
this idea. There needs to be further analysis as it relates
to cost comparison. There is also the question of the
longevity that we have currently and the investment of the
current facility. There is a great deal of analysis that
need to take place on our part for a complete commitment of
shutting down our operations and shifting our entire
solidwaste disposal to such a facility.
Cw. Moreno asked that we also invite other options besides
the one presented, other alternatives on how we would be part
of a regional facility.
Motion to proceed with meeting with these individuals and
discussing the finer points of services and costs related to
those services so that at the time of our budget workshops we
can consider it in greater detail and proceed at that time as
to what kind of commitment and endorsement this Council will
be prepared to take at that time; to amend that Southern
Sanitation be invited into the discussions; and that we put
into it a 90 day day timeline.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Second to the motion agrees to amend.
2. Status report regarding the night illumination on Sierra
Vista/Los Obispos area, with possible action.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, reported that they did a
survey of those areas, they looked at five phases in Los
Obispos, and identified 22 lights that they feel are needed
in the area. Most of those are at cul-de-sacs, he did
approach the Legal and Planning Departments regarding the
current ordinance with stipulates 300 feet and of all those
identified, only two were over 300 feet, however they have
started to get many calls on the cul-de-sacs on the old
neighborhood and subdivisions because of the way the lights
were placed (placed within 300 ft.).
They now have a new system whereby the Traffic Department
reviews all subdivision plans for compliance of the street
lighting before they are approved.
He added that on the case of Los Obispos the legal staff said
they might be able to take action against the developers on
two lights that are over 300 feet. The rest are within the
requirements according to the ordinance.
He said Sierra Vista is so illuminated that they found one
extra light and identified two or three that are out and have
been already reported to CP&L, so no additional lights are
needed there.
They estimate about $2,500 per street light depending on
location and from where the power is coming from.
Mayor Protem Perez asked if there is a Homeowners Association
that can be contacted and advised or that the citizens
request for those installations since they do not meet the
criteria.
Mr. Pena stated there are only two or three that do not meet
the requirements and they can proceed against the developer.
They will research with legal to see what legal action can be
taken against those developers.
Mr. Murillo suggested that maybe it would be possible to
amend the ordinance to indicate the cul-de-sac requirements.
Mr. Pena said that besides the cul-de-sacs requirements,
that they might also see lumins on minor collectors which
might need to be upgraded, they will go back and review the
ordinance to make the necessary changes.
C. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report regarding Airport Projects to include
a. Runway 17L/35R Reconstruction
b. Runway 17L/35R Extension
c. Noise abatement program implementation
d. New Airport Passenger Terminal
with possible action.
Jose Flores, Airport Director, updated Council on the four
projects.
a. Runway 17L/35R is about 88% complete, they expect to be
using the runway sometime in October, 1997.
b. On Runway 17L/35R Extension, they have already started the
process by doing the engineering for that section of the
work. They started with the land acquisition project on
114 acres, land acquisition is pending condemnation
proceedings hopefully that will be resolved soon, and they
can apply for federal assistance so that the runway can be
extended by additional 2,000 ft. This in particular has
noise abatement benefits to noise impacted residential
homes on the south end of the airport.
c. The noise abatement is in place and they have installed
airfield signs to encourage the pilot to employ the take-
off procedures. They are encouraging aircraft that when
they depart the runway 17R to 17L to where upon reaching
elevation to make turn southeasterly directions which
would put them away from commercial development, and over
other compatible areas such as the lake. They are
proposing that runway 14 be preferentially used as well,
over the gulf course where there is no residential impact.
They are encouraging pilots to use FAA advisory circular
procedures. Shifting commercial and military operations
from our primary runway 17R.
All of the recommendations are in place, with the
exception of some of them that are impacted by the runway
reconstruction, so by October they will fully implement
all the noise abatement recommendations.
d. On the new passenger terminal they are getting "punch list
phase" which means the building is substantially complete,
the architects will be coming in and see what is missing
so that it will be corrected. As part of that same
project they will be having a groundbreaking ceremony
tomorrow (June 17th) for the parking lot and access road
to facility.
Cm. Bruni wanted to know on item (b) when will they see that
extension, going out for bids and completed.
Mr. Flores said that is subject to the FAA funding, that
could be within a year or two from happening which is under
negotiations, first they have to do acquisition of property,
it is underway by the legal staff.
Cm. Bruni wants the noise abatement program in effect for
residents and that they notify the residents that will be
impacted by notifying them through flyers that these funds
will be existing to try and alleviate and resolve their
problems on noise abatement.
2. Status report regarding the creek cleaning crew established
in the FY 1995-1996 Annual Budget to include when the crew
was hired, how many members are in the crew, how many creeks
were cleaned on an annual basis before this crew was
established and how many are cleaned now, and the number of
creeks they have cleaned to date to include those located in
District II, with possible action.
Joe Guerra, Public Works Directors, stated that Public Works
is responsible for 60 miles of creeks, 341 acres of
easements, and 743 acres of major creeks. They try to clean
all the creeks they can. In 1994/95 they had five people on
the creeks and went ahead and added another creek in 1995/96.
In 1997 they have 13 people and one supervisor, 2 heavy
equipment operators, 3 drivers, and 7 laborers. One of the
biggest problems that they sometimes encounter is that there
is no way they can get the equipment in some of the creeks
because there is 10-12 foot easement and there is no way to
get in there so they have to be done by hand. He has
submitted a report to council on the creeks that have been
cleaned in the last seven months.
Motion to move item D(2) and E(2) at this time.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni asked in reference to the creek in Townlake.
Mr. Guerra stated that it will be concrete lined or storm
drained this coming year. On Chacon Creek from Arkansas
going to Gustavus by the bridge, he stated that it is not
dedicated and it is not the city's.
Cm. Bruni suggested that they contact the owners and that it
be cleaned.
Cm. Valdez spoke on his item E(2) on concrete lining of the
creek located north of Hillside Road. He suggested that they
break this into phases and tackle the problem. He said that
we took the responsibility of doing International Blvd. and
other streets where there were associations before.
Motion to proceed with preparing the cost estimates to buy
smaller equipment if necessary to deal with the smaller
creeks as well as the possibility of establishing a cost
analysis of concrete lining the smaller creeks down at the
bottom setting the base such as it was done with Zacate
Creek, phasing them, and that this include all the small
creeks in the city.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso spoke on item D(2), he said where Seymour ends
behind the church on the right hand side there is a creek and
wants to know who owns that creek. There is a drainage
problem there and something needs to be done about it and
that it needs to be cleaned.
3. Status report on the Chacon Creek Interceptor, with possible
action.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated the project is on
target with the schedule set. He pointed out that they had
intended to complete their right-of-way acquisition in
October of this year. CDA has informed that they have
contacted 17 out of 23 landowners with whom they are
negotiating, but they think it can be done by August.
There is another significant date associated with the
environmental study, the finding of no significant impact as
CPA calls it, which they are expecting by October. If it
comes to them in October, then they will be able to bid this
project in November or December. They have identified the
project into different phases, by the time it is finish will
be about $15.3 million. The have on hand a mixture of EPA
and city funds, they have $9.8 million so they have decided
to break it into different phases, and have identified five
phases.
He added that Phase I can be paid in its entirety, it's from
the southside wastewater plant to the most critical junction,
Milk and Ejido where the Larga Vista sewer line and all the
359 development will occur. They have the monies, it is just
a matter of getting to the bidding date.
Phase II is between $500,000 and $1 million, that would be a
42" segment that would take them to the next important
junction which is where Colonias are going to come in.
Approximately where the Tex-Mex comes into play, they don't
have the monies, they will have some EPA funds left over from
the first phase, but will have to issue some additional
obligations.
Phase III will take them all the way to the Inner Loop and
Hwg. 59 which is the original scope, that is approximately
$2.5 to $5 million. The are scheduled to arrive Highway 59
on September of 1999.
Phase IV would be going all the way to the north end of the
East Corridor to meet their obligations. That will be about
$1.7 million and Phase V is getting all the lift stations
eliminated (the crucial ones are the 21" line on District II
creating some of the overflows) the rest of the lift stations
they can wait and do them at the end, do them in-house with
money from the project or contract them out.
4. Discussion and possible action on implementing the Data
International Network Weather Center (DTN).
Mr. Bruce Earle Miller, Chairman of the Cable Commission,
stated that the weather patterns have changed and Cw. Bruni
brought it to their attention that they needed to be looking
at some sort of a way to get a reliable weather prediction
information for bad storms that roam through the area. While
this system has nothing to do with air traffic control and
radar, they have found a company called DTN (Data
Transmission Network Corporation) which is a commodities
provider, they have stock market, data reports and found out
that they mirrored some of the satellites that the NOAA
Weather Satellites have that cover the face of the earth for
gathering information. They have put together a package that
they offer for media for television/radio and they have no
problem licensing a municipality.
This is a device that would give us the possibility to have
regional data updated every 15 minutes. Hourly national
radar summary that gives information on the height, direction
and intensity of storm cells and satellite cloud maps of US/
Canada/Mexico, Pacific and Atlantic Ocean regions and South
America basically for a one time fee of $318.00 plus shipping
and handling of $49.00. This company provides a VGA color
monitor and a control panel that lets access all the
different satellite maps that are available.
Where we live is a unique situation, Mexican/US Border
and this company gives us the access to track information
coming from Mexico if a storm is heading this way or if
something is heading off in the gulf. It is an affordable
system, they charge $68.00 for this system, once the service
is implemented after the service is on-line you can expand
the pages and get other information for something like $45.00
a quarter. They do have a trial period that is available.
Larry Dovalina, Civic Center Director, stated that since the
Police Department has a 9-1-1 dispatcher, the excellent
location would be at their communications room. Once the
telecommunications building is up and running they can easily
transfer the dish over and have it beam back through the
access channels and through the city's internal network.
Motion to go instruct staff to proceed and get the detail
information, the necessary costs into effect and see if it is
an item that is unique to this particular company or whether
it would have to be bid out and that it be brought to council
for action at our second meeting in July.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso "Poncho" Casso
1. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.074 of
the Texas Government Code dealing with personnel matters to
discuss the Interim Police Chief's and City Manager's
decision as it relates to a personnel matter.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.074 of the Texas Government Code dealing with personnel
matters to discuss the Interim Police Chief's and City
Manager's decision as it relates to a personnel matter.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Note: Cw. Moreno did not participate in Executive Session.
After Executive Session Mayor Ramirez announced that no
formal action was taken, no discussions were had in relation
to any specifics and dealt in general terms on personnel
matters.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the drainage at the
arroyo located at the end of Seymour.
Item taken in conjunction with item Cm. Bruni's item C(2).
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the animal health
control department and how it interfaces with the police
department.
Cm. Casso stated that he placed this item on the agenda
because he received a call from a person that was bitten by a
dog. It turned out the dog was not vaccinated and now she
has to go through a serious of vaccinations. It is his
understanding that if you have the dog quarantined, she does
not have to go through that painful process, but she says she
had no response from Police or the Animal Health Control and
she wasn't getting any answers. The ordinance should be
enforced, the owner should have been cited as a stray dog,
and the lady should have been helped out so that she doesn't
have to go through the rabies vaccination process. The case
number is #9713614 and wants to know the process.
Jerry Robinson, Health Director, answered that the Animal
Control is part of the Health Department and explained that
they receive cases that have occurred through many sources,
one is the Police Department.
Victor Oliveros of the Health Department, explained that this
case happened on June 4th and the procedures taken, report
process, that dog was put under observation, the lady was
advised that the animal was o.k. and she did not have to
undergo treatment. The physician was also advised, and from
the part of the Health Department, the owner of the animal
was given a citation for an unvaccinated dog. The dog has
been declared to be dangerous, the owners have been sent a
letter notifying them of the fact, to obtain a $100,000.00
insurance policy and to register the animal as dangerous,
and keep it under secure confinement. They have not received
an answer yet from the owners of the animal. The lady
indicated that she was seeking other damages and was told
that it would have to be a civil case.
4. Discussion and possible action regarding wrecker service
towing charges.
Cm. Casso requested that this item be tabled.
E. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez Jr.
1. Status report with possible action regarding the development
and implementation of the notification process when a staff
person visits a site which reports a complaint or concern.
Mr. Pena stated they are considering using a form which would
be used by Code Enforcement, waterworks employees, or any
employee that is asked to go to a residence to answer
questions or take some kind of action. Unfortunately on some
occasions people are not there so this form will be used to
notify them who they can call, who dropped by, the time and
the phone number they can call to follow-up. They plan to
pass these forms out to all the departments.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the concrete lining
of the creek located north of Hillside Road and along the
Northeast Hillside Recreation Center and the park, as well as
the lining of the creek bottoms in the smaller creek areas
north of Gale and Calle del Norte, or the possible purchase
of equipment which will allow the cleaning of the bottoms of
these creeks. A cost estimate is also requested to determine
the cost to clean the creeks vs. the cost to concrete line
them.
This item was discussed together with C(2).
3. Discussion and possible regarding the demolition of the
abandoned homes located at the 500 and 600 Blocks of San
Pedro as well as throughout District V.
Cm. Valdez stated that it should be the 700 block instead of
the 600 Block of San Pedro. He received a report that it
would be taken care of and the house would be torn down in
two or three weeks. He wanted to know what the procedure is
on abandoned houses because there are several houses in
District V.
Mr. Benny Salinas pointed the procedures, first identify
them, red tag them, go to the tax roles to see who the owner
is, notify them, give them 30 days to respond, if they do not
respond then they schedule it for the Standard Building Board
Meeting, make a presentation, and also notify the property
owner if they want to be present with their lawyers. At that
time the board will make a determination on whether the
structure can be rehabed or it has to be demolished. If it
can be rehabed, they give them time to be bring it up to
standard.
On the house of the 700 Block of San Pedro, it has gone to
the Standard Building Board and they sent that with a list of
other houses to CDA. Once the house is removed they put a
lien against that property to recover the expenses incurred.
As to the other structure on the 500 Block of San Pedro they
just identified that today, because they did not have it on
their records yet.
4. Presentation by Wesley Boyd and Bob Kulick regarding the
Laredo League for Family Fun and their annual 4th of July
Celebration, with possible action to support this community
endeavor. (Co-sponsored by Cm. Guerra)
Mr. Wesley Boyd and Mr. Kulick made the presentation. They
thanked the council for their previous support and invited
the council and public to Family Fun and their July 4th
Celebration and were asking for support from the community
and City Council.
E. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Discussion and possible action requesting that the Laredo
Police Department implement Senate Bill No. 267/House Bill
No. 1379. This legislation allows for public notification of
sex offenders when they come back into our community after
being released from prison.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
38. Public hearing concerning the application by Jean Salinas
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lots 30 and 31, Block 12, Las Americas Subdivision,
Unit II, located at 2018 and 2020 Durango Avenue, from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family
District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of this zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lots 30 and 31, Block 12, Las Americas
Subdivision, Unit II, located at 2018 and 2020 Durango
Avenue, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-2
(Multi-Family District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of the Planning Department made the
presentation.
Mr. Ron Whitehawk representing the applicant asked that
council concur with staff and P&Z recommendations.
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z, and
introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Casso was temporarily out.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
39. Public hearing concerning the application by Paulino and Rosa
Vigil amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 15.57 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located southwest of the intersection of Santa
Barbara Street and Avenida Los Presidentes, from R-1 (Single
Family Residential District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced
Area District). The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends approval of this zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 15.57 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located southwest of the intersection of Santa
Barbara Street and Avenida Los Presidentes, from R-1 (Single
Family Residential District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced
Area District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of the Planning Department made the
presentation.
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z
recommendation, and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Casso was temporarily out.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
40. Public hearing concerning the application by Jacaman
Investment Group, LTD, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 10.670 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds, located west of the Bob
Bullock Loop and directly north of the Laredo International
Airport from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to
M-1 (Light Manufacturing District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of this zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 10.670 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located west of the Bob Bullock Loop and
directly north of the Laredo International Airport from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of Planning made the presentation.
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z, and
introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
41. Public hearing concerning the application by Jacaman
Investment Group, LTD, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map)
of the City of Laredo by rezoning 108.4 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds, located east of the Bob
Bullock Loop and directly north of Lake Casa Blanca, from
AG (Agricultural District) to R-1 (Single Family Residential
District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of this zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 108.4 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located east of the Bob Bullock Loop and directly
north of Lake Casa Blanca, from AG (Agricultural District)
to R-1 (Single Family Residential District); providing for an
effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Carlos Mejia representing the prospective buyer was
present to answer any questions.
Mr. Jesus Ponce questioned if this land connected to the
lawsuit that has been filed against the city for
water/wastewater.
Mayor Ramirez stated it is and they have partially negotiated
the settlement.
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z
recommendation, and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
42. Public hearing concerning the application by Blackstone
Dilworth, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 67.7 acres as further described by metes
and bounds, located west of McPherson Road, north of the Bob
Bullock Loop from AG (Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District). The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends approval of this zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 67.7 acres as further described by metes
and bounds, located west of McPherson Road, north of the Bob
Bullock Loop from AG (Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman made the presentation before council.
Mr. Carlos Mejia representing the prospective buyer was
present to answer any questions.
Motion to close the public hearing, introduce the ordinance
and concur with P&Z.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
43. Public hearing concerning the application by Armandina
Villarreal, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City
of Laredo by rezoning Lot 10, Block 864, Western Division,
located at 1518 Burnside Street from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District). The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommends approval of this zone
change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 10, Block 864, Western Division,
located at 1518 Burnside Street from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District); providing for
an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of Planning made the presentation.
Motion to close the public hearing, introduce the ordinance
and concur with P&Z recommendation.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
44. Public hearing concerning the application by Refugio
Hinojosa, Oscar Hinojosa, Eduardo Hinojosa, and Carlos
Hinojosa, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by revoking a Special Use Permit for a manufactured
housing park, Ordinance No. 93-O-200 on 21.5921 acres out of
Porcion 19, Abstract 591, as further described by metes and
bounds, located west of FM 1472, across from the old
municipal airport. The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends approval of the revocation of this Special Use
Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by revoking a Special Use Permit for a manufactured
housing park, Ordinance No. 93-O-200 on 21.5921 acres out of
Porcion 19, Abstract 591, as further described by metes and
bounds located west of FM 1472, across from the old municipal
airport; providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman made the presentation.
Mr. Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of the Killam Development,
stated that this item and the next one are the same parcel of
land and perhaps should be heard together. He asked that
council approve the zone change request.
Motion to close the public hearing; concur with P&Z
recommendation to revocate the special use permit, and
introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
45. Public hearing concerning the application by Refugio
Hinojosa, Oscar Hinojosa, Eduardo Hinojosa, and Carlos
Hinojosa, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 21.5921 acres out of Porcion 19, Abstract
591, as further described by metes and bounds located west of
FM 1472, across from the old municipal airport, from M-1
(Light Manufacturing District) to R-1 (Single Family
Residential District). The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends denial of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 21.5921 acres out of Porcion 19, Abstract
591, as further described by metes and bounds located west of
FM 1472, across from the old municipal airport, from M-1
(Light Manufacturing District) to R-1 (Single Family
Residential District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of Planning made the presentation.
Mr. Ron Whitehawk representing the Killam Investment Company
made the presentation and asked that council override P&Z
Commission and staff recommendation and allow the original
development pattern to be expressed on this tract of land.
Motion to close the public hearing, override P&Z, and
introduce an ordinance changing the zoning from M-1 to R-1.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
46. Public hearing concerning the application by Gateway
Community Health Center amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map)
of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 8 and the north 1/2 of
Lot 6, Block 485, Western Division, located at 309 Park
Street from B-1 (Limited Business District) to R-O
(Residential/Office District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 8 and the north 1/2 of Lot 6, Block
485, Western Division, located at 309 Park Street from B-1
(Limited Business District) to R-O (Residential/Office
District); providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z
recommendation, and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Perez stepped out momentarily - 9:55 p.m.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
47. Public hearing concerning the application by Ricardo
Benavides amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 1A Block 681, Western Division,
located at 2302 Iturbide Street from R-2 (Multi-Family
District) to R-O (Residential/Office District). The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommends approval of this zone
change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 1A Block 681, Western Division,
located at 2302 Iturbide Street from R-2 (Multi-Family
District) to R-O (Residential/Office District). The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommends approval of this zone
change; providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Perez was not present.)
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with P&Z, and
introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Perez was not present.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
48. Public hearing amending Section 24-62 of the Laredo Land
Development Code relating to districts and boundaries;
Section 24-82 relating to the permitted dimensions for on-
premise and off-premise freestanding signs. This ordinance
deletes the prohibition for on-premise freestanding signs
within 350 feet of residential districts. The Planning and
Zoning Commission recommends approval of this ordinance.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Section 24-62 of the Laredo Land
Development Code relating to districts and boundaries;
Section 24-82 relating to the permitted dimensions for on-
premise and off-premise freestanding signs; providing for
publication and effective date; providing for an effective
date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman of the Planning Department made the
presentation. He said that what this will basically do is
delete the 350 ft. and the 150 ft. prohibition on
freestanding signs from a Residential District and will limit
very large on-premise signs to highways and expressways.
Mr. Ron Whitehawk on behalf of various members of the sign
industry asked that council support the Planning Commission
recommendation as it stands.
Mr. Herb Scobey, General Manager of Lamar Advertising, asked
that council accept the P&Z/staff changes to this ordinance.
Mr. Max Watts, P.B. Newman Investment, stated that this
proposed change will affect them and are in great support of
these changes.
Mr. Raul Guzman asked that council follow staff's
recommendation on this matter.
Mr. Javier de Anda, partner with B.P. Newman Investment,
spoke in favor of staff's recommendations.
Mr. Arnold Cisneros, from IBC, was in support of the change
and asked that council follow P&Z's recommendation.
Cm. Bruni had a concern with the 15 ft. on off-premises
signs on B-4 and M-1 which is not acceptable to him and
wanted the 15 ft. increased.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance in its present form.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
49. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1996-1997 budget
in the amount of $20,479.00 for additional salary and fringe
benefit costs for six task force investigators in the Multi-
Agency Financial Disruption Task Force awarded by the Office
of National Drug Control Policy for the period of July 1,
1996 and ending June 30, 1997.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-1997 budget in
the amount of $20,479.00 for additional salary and fringe
benefit costs for six task force investigators in the Multi-
Agency Financial Disruption Task Force awarded by the Office
of National Drug Control Policy for the period of July 1,
1996 and ending June 30, 1997; providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Perez stepped out momentarily - 10:05 p.m.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
50. Public hearing amending City of Laredo's 1996-1997 budget in
the amount of $1,082,467.00. Of this amount, $711,562.00 is
grant funds, with the City designating $370,905.00 in
matching funds for a grant from the Criminal Justice Division
for Multi-Agency Narcotics Task Force for the period of June
1, 1997 through May 31, 1998 and authorizing the City Manager
to sign any and all documents pertaining to this grant
application.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending City of Laredo's 1996-1997 budget in the
amount of $1,082,467.00. Of this amount, $711,562.00 is
grant funds, with the City designating $370,905.00 in
matching funds for a grant from the Criminal Justice Division
for Multi-Agency Narcotics Task Force for the period of June
1, 1997 through May 31, 1998 and authorizing the City Manager
to sign any and all documents pertaining to this grant
application; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Perez stepped out. 10:05)
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
51. Public hearing to receive public comment regarding the Chacon
Creek Flood Protection Project. This project is being made
possible through a grant from the Texas Water Development
Board. The grant will fund a study to prepare hydrological
and hydraulic data for the submittal of a Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) to the Federal Emergency Management Agency
which will establish a stormwater information database
identifying hydraulic structures in the floodplain, develop a
Flood Protection Plan including proposed regulations for
structural improvements, and will provide the City with a
computer model to plan the scheduled maintenance of stream
beds and structures; and to amend the City of Laredo's 1996-
97 annual budget in the amount of $325,000.00, for a grant
awarded by the Texas Water Development Board to develop a
Flood Protection Plan for the Chacon Watershed; the
composition of the $325,000.00, is $260,000.00 from the Texas
Water Development Board, $42,500.00 Webb County, ($17,500
cash and $25,000.00 in-kind), $5,000.00 from Webb County
Drainage District No. 1 and $17,500 from the City of Laredo.
The City will also provide $25,000.00 in in-kind services.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97 annual budget
in the amount of $325,000.00, for a grant awarded by the
Texas Water Development Board to develop a Flood Protection
Plan for the Chacon Watershed; the composition of the
$325,000.00, is $260,000.00 from the Texas Water Development
Board, $42,500.00 Webb County, ($17,500 cash and $25,000.00
in-kind), $5,000.00 from Webb County Drainage District No. 2
and $17,500 from the City of Laredo.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Raj Guntnur of the Engineering Department made the
presentation. This is a public hearing process which is a
required part of the grant program. The program name is
Chacon Flood Protection Plan or Storm Water Master Plan.
Participants of this project are the City, Webb County, Webb
County Drainage District 1, and Texas Water Development
Board. The total project is $350,000.00. The whole project
has been phased in three phases:
1) The analysis of the existing land uses based on the
hydrology/hydraulics, once these are analysis are
completed they can delineate the new flood plain/flood
risk within the Chacon area.
2) Ultimate Condition Analysis based on 20 year future plan.
3) Interim Condition Analysis to see what are the drainage
problems in Chacon Creek watershed.
They will then recommend what are the top priorities based on
that. They are looking at 12 months to complete the project.
Mr. Joe Gonzalez, representing residents of the area, stated
that back in 1985 Council committed themselves to building a
deferment canal leading to Chacon Creek and this canal was
going to be built on the south side of Southgate
Neighborhood. He wants to make sure that the City's
intention of building the diversion channal project does go
through on the next fiscal year, and that there be an item
for discussion and action.
Mr. Pena stated that the engineering staff today are of the
opinion that such facility is no longer needed, that it's not
something that will help address the drainage problems.
There is another project being proposed for approximately
$3 million that is downstream of Southgate and it will be
discussed later in the agenda.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
52. Public hearing approving an amendment to the City of Laredo's
Annual Budget in the amount of $24,000.00, for the Chronic
Disease Prevention Program, Breast and Cervical Cancer
Control Project (BCCCP), of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning July 1, 1996, through
June 30, 1997.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving an amendment to the budget in the amount
of $24,000.00, for the Chronic Disease Prevention Program,
Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Project, of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning July 1,
1996, through June 30, 1997; and increase revenue line item
226-0000-323-4055 from $41,500.00 to $65,500.00, and
expenditure line item 226-6045 from $41,500.00, to
$65,500.00.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
53. Public hearing establishing parking meter zones and
associated parking meter rates for different parking areas
within the Central Business District and authorizing the
removal of several existing parking meters in outlying areas
of the Central Business District, rescinding all previous
conflicting ordinances, and providing for publication and
effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance establishing parking meter zones and associated
parking meter rates for different parking areas within the
Central Business District and authorizing the removal of
several existing parking meters in outlying areas of the
Central Business District, rescinding all previous
conflicting ordinances, and providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, made the presentation
stating they had several concerns regarding the parking
availability by downtown merchants and customers.
Mr. Larry Dovalina, C&V Director, stated that the general
suggestion came from merchants and it was developed as a
package where they were talking about increasing the fees in
parking meters and keeping the fees at a parking structure at
a lower level than what had been proposed.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
54. Public hearing amending Ordinance 86-O-226 and Article VIII,
Stopping, Standing or Parking of Chapter 19, Motor Vehicles
and Traffic Division 3, Violations, Penalties, Section 19-355
of the Code of Ordinances amending minimum penalities for
violations of Article VIII of Chapter 19 of the Code of
Ordinances, providing for publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Ordinance 86-O-226 and Article VIII,
Stopping, Standing or Parking of Chapter 19, Motor Vehicles
and Traffic Division 3, Violations, Penalties, Section 19-355
of the Code of Ordinances amending minimum penalities for
violations of Article VIII of Chapter 19 of the Code of
Ordinances, providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Luis Landin and Mr. Roberto Murillo of the Traffic
Department made the presentation.
Cw. Moreno wanted to know what rate of collection do we have,
and what percentage is outstanding.
Mr. Murillo stated that about 60% of the collection rate.
Mr. Jesus Ponce was opposed to the penalties/fines imposed.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
55. Public hearing amending Ordinance No. 88-O-006, as amended by
Ordinance No. 89-O-131 which established fares for fixed
route transit service and for EL METRO ID cards.
A. The base adult fare will increase from sixty cents ($0.60)
to seventy-five cents ($0.75).
B. The fare for children of ages 5 to 11 will remain
unchanged at 25 cents ($0.25)
C. The fare for children under 5 years of age will continue
to be free of charge.
D. The fare for students will increase from thirty-five cents
($0.35) to fifty cents ($0.50).
E. During peak hours on Monday through Friday (except
holidays), the peak fare for seniors and persons with
disabilities will increase from ten cents ($0.10) to fifty
cents ($0.50).
F. During off-peak hours, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays, the fare for seniors and persons with
disabilities, and possessing a valid ID card, will
increase from zero ($0.0) to twenty-five cents ($0.25).
G. The fare for express route service will increase from
sixty cents ($0.60) to one dollar ($1.00).
H. The charge for an initial or replacement EL METRO ID card
will remain unchanged at $2.00
I. An initial EL LIFT ID card will continue to be free of
charge.
J. The charge for a replacement EL LIFT ID card will continue
to be $2.00.
The ordinance provides for publication and an October 1, 1997
effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 88-O-006, as amended by
Ordinance No. 89-O-131 which established fares for fixed
route transit service and for EL METRO ID cards.
A. The base adult fare will increase from sixty cents ($0.60)
to seventy-five cents ($0.75).
B. The fare for children of ages 5 to 11 will remain
unchanged at 25 cents ($0.25)
C. The fare for children under 5 years of age will continue
to be free of charge.
D. The fare for students will increase from thirty-five cents
($0.35) to fifty cents ($0.50).
E. During peak hours on Monday through Friday (except
holidays), the peak fare for seniors and persons with
disabilities will increase from ten cents ($0.10) to fifty
cents ($0.50).
F. During off-peak hours, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays, the fare for seniors and persons with
disabilities, and possessing a valid ID card, will
increase from zero ($0.0) to twenty-five cents ($0.25).
G. The fare for express route service will increase from
sixty cents ($0.60) to one dollar ($1.00).
H. The charge for an initial or replacement EL METRO ID card
will remain unchanged at $2.00
I. An initial EL LIFT ID card will continue to be free of
charge.
J. The charge for a replacement EL LIFT ID card will continue
to be $2.00.
The ordinance provides for publication and an October 1, 1997
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Gilbert Segovia, Transit Director, was present to answer any
questions.
Motion to amend the ordinance, that D, E, F remain as is.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Casso and Cm. Bruni were out at this time - 10:30 p.m.)
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce with the
amendment.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
56. Public hearing amending Ordinance No. 89-O-122, which
established fares for paratransit transportation service on
the EL LIFT system.
The fare for a one-way trip shall increase from $0.75 to
$1.50. This ordinance provides for publication and an October
1, 1997 effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 89-O-122, which established
fares for paratransit transportation service on the EL LIFT
system. The fare for a one-way trip shall increase from
$0.75 to $1.50. This ordinance provides for publication and
an October 1, 1997 effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Bruni and Cm. Casso were not present.)
There was no public input.
Motion to amend to increase fares from $.75 to $1.00.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Bruni and Cm. Casso were not present.)
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance as amended.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Bruni and Cm. Casso were not present.)
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
57. Public hearing continuing the City of Laredo's Juvenile
Curfew Ordinance No. 94-O-142 as amended by Ordinance No. 96-
O-030 for an additional three (3) years starting July 18,
1997 until July 18, 2000 in accordance with 370.002 of the
Texas Local Government Code; which mandates that before the
third anniversary of the date of adoption of a juvenile
curfew ordinance the municipality needs to review the
ordinance's effect on the community and on problems the
ordinance was intended to remedy, conduct public hearings on
the need to continue the ordinance and abolish, continue or
modify the ordinance; providing for severability; providing
for an effective date and publication.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance continuing the City of Laredo's Juvenile Curfew
Ordinance No. 94-O-142 as amended by Ordinance No. 96-O-030
for an additional three (3) years starting July 18, 1997
until July 18, 2000 in accordance with 370.002 of the Texas
Local Government Code; providing for severability; providing
for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Bruni and Cm. Casso were not present - 10:30 p.m.)
Cm. Guerra wants to know if this ordinance is really working.
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Chief of Police, stated it is
working very effectively.
Deputy Chief San Miguel pointed the statistics for August,
1994 to December 1994 which showed 694 citations issued, from
January to December there were 513 citations. In 1996 they
had total of 800, 1997 to this point there are 345 however,
they do have special details working on it and they feel it
is effective.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
XIII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Lared