CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M-97-R-24 JULY 21, 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
MARIO GEORGE ALVARADO, " , DISTRICT VII
CONSUELO MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, CITY MANAGER
JAIME L. FLORES, CITY ATTORNEY
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. City Council Meeting of June 2, 1997
City Council Meeting of June 16, 1997
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to waive the rules of order and move item X.(A), #60,
C(1)(2), #47, G(1), H(1), F(3) and 43.A(1).
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
3. Closing as a public easement that section of South Jarvis
Avenue between Cleveland and Blaine Streets, also known as
the 700 block of South Jarvis Avenue, and providing for
publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Closing as a public easement a 3,502.12 square foot tract of
land more or less out of the northeast quarter of the 1800
block of Palo Blanco Street between Tapeyste Avenue and the
east right-of-way line of Highway 83, situated in the
Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, being
more particularly described in "Exhibit A", and providing
for publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Amending Ordinance No. 97-O-108, approved on May 27, 1997,
to correct the block number of a property erroneously
identified as Lot 4-A, Block 1980, Eastern Division to
hereby correct to read Lot 4-A, Block 1918, Eastern
Division, providing for publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Amending Ordinance No. 96-O-075, thereby correcting the
named lessee from "International Customs Services, Inc.", to
"Rafael Quiroz, Jr., D/B/A International Customs Services"
thereby clearing the City Manager's authority to have signed
the lease dated June 3, 1996, with Rafael Quiroz, Jr., D/B/A
International Customs Services
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
7. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a subordination,
Non-disturbance, and Attornment Agreement between the City
of Laredo and Rafael Quiroz, Jr., D/B/A International
Customs Services subordinating the lease agreement dated
June 3, 1996, between the City of Laredo and Rafael Quiroz,
Jr., D/B/A International Customs Services, authorized by
Ordinance No. 96-O-075, which ordinance was amended by
Ordinance No.xx, at the Laredo International Airport.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
8. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey, to the Laredo National
Bank, title to the "Surface Only" of a 0.44900 of an acre
tract of land, more or less, being a trangular tract and
situated immediately East of Lot 1A, Block 1173, Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; said tract
being generally described below and more particularly
described by metes and bounds. Said conveyance being in
exchange for the "Surface Only" of lots one (1) and two (2),
Block 1190 and the "Surface Only" of a tract of land
containing 0.1181 of an acre (5,144 square feet) all in the
Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas. Said
tracts being generally described below and more particularly
described by metes and bounds; and providing for an
effective date.
(Note: Action must first be initiated on item #22, prior to
the initiation of any action on this item.)
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #97-O-151,
#97-O-152, #97-O-153, #97-O-154, #97-O-155, #97-O-156,
#97-O-157, #97-O-158, #97-O-159, and #97-O-160.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 97-O-151 Ordinance approving an assignment from Aero Center,
Inc. to the Laredo National Bank of that airport
lease agreement for hanger #142, buildings #144,
#147, and #148 approved by Ordinance No. 94-O-001
dated January 3, 1994 and authorizing the City
Manager to execute said Consent of Assignment.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-151.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 97-O-152 Ordinance approving an assignment from Aero Center,
Inc. to the International Bank of Commerce and
Sanchez-O'Brien Oil and Gas Corporation, a joint
venture, of that lease agreement for an approximate
1.001 acre tract of improved land approved by
Ordinance No. 95-O-154 dated August 7, 1995, and
authorizing the City Manager to execute said
Consent of Assignment. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-152.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 97-O-153 Ordinance authorizing the City of Laredo City
council to accept the assignment of a leased
contract issued to Panorama Broadcasting for the
use of an area of land for the construction of a
television station tower and authorizing the City
Manager to take such steps as are necessary to
execute the document to finalize the transaction.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-153.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 97-O-154 Ordinance Authorizing the City Manager to execute
Quitclaim Deeds, to the following seven grantors,
the City of Laredo's interest to the Mineral Rights
acquired through the conveyance of seven tracts of
additional right-of-way for the Mines Road Widening
Project. Said seven tracts being Parcel Nos. 29,
42, 43, 53, 54, 55, and 57; being situated in Webb
County, Texas, and providing for an effective date.
PARCEL 29 (Santos Costilla and San Juanita
Costilla, original grantors as per warranty deed to
the City of Laredo, recorded in volume 48, Pages
023-024, real property records, Webb County,
Texas). A 1.1006 acre tract being out of Porcion
10, Tomas Sanchez, original grantee, Abstract 280,
also being out of a 10.0 acre tract of land (Tract
2) unrecorded 172.90 acre tract subdivision, Webb
County, Texas as conveyed by deed from Jack E.
Blanco to Santos Costilla and San Juanita Costilla
as recorded in volume 13, pages 747 and 748, real
property records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 42 (Venola Sanchez, Original Grantor, as per
warranty deed to the City of Laredo, recorded in
volume 23, pages 233-234, real property records
Webb County, Texas) - A 1.0080 acre tract being out
of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, Original Grantee,
Abstract 280, also being out of a 4.4292 acre tract
(Tract 1) as conveyed by deed from Rodolfo Salinas,
Jr., to Venola Sanchez as recorded in volume 517,
pages 259-265, deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 43 (Ernestina B. Wolter, Original Grantor as
per warranty deed to the City of Laredo, recorded
in volume 21, pages 771-772, real property records,
Webb County, Texas) - A 1.5225 acre tract being out
of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, Original Grantee,
Abstract 280, also being out of a 5.3614 acre tract
(Tract 14) as conveyed by deed from Fernando Babiak
and wife, Elva Rosa Babiak to Ernestina B. Wolter
as recorded in volume 572, Pages 97-101, deed
records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 53 (Elias Herrera and wife, Olga F. Herrera,
Original Grantors as per warranty deed to the City
of Laredo, recorded in volume 160, pages 122-123,
real property records, Webb County, Texas). A
1.3167 acre tract being out of Porcion 10, Tomas
Sanchez, Original Grantee, Abstract 280, also being
out of a 6.4119 acre tract (Tract 30) as conveyed
by deed from Rodolfo Salinas, Jr., to Elias Herrera
and Olga P. Herrera as recorded in volume 517,
pages 410-417, deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 54 (C.C.M. Financial Inc., Original Grantor
as per warranty deed to the City of Laredo,
recorded in volume 73, page 881, real property
records, Webb County, Texas). An 1.3186 acre tract
being out of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, Original
Grantee, Abstract 280, also being out of a 6.6788
acre tract (Tract 31) as conveyed by deed from
Edward M. Pina, a single man to Carlos Nelli
Marsicano, et al, as recorded in volume 1341, pages
5-8, deed records of Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 55 (Agustin Meza, Jr., and wife, Vilma Meza,
Original Grantors as per warranty deed to the City
of Laredo, recorded in volume 22, page 175, real
property records, Webb County, Texas). A 1.3186
acre tract being out of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez,
Original Grantee, Abstract 2280, also being out of
a 7.2909 acre tract (Tract 32) as conveyed by deed
from Rodolfo Salinas, Jr. to Mr. Agustin Meza Jr.,
and Vilma S. Meza as recorded in volume 517, Pages
426-433, deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 57 (Carlos Casiano, Jr., David Casiano,
Ramon Casiano, Demetrios Casiano, Tomas Casiano,
Daniel Casiano, Raquel Casiano Elliott, Guadalupe
Casiano Calvitt, Reynaldo Mireles and Manuel
Mireles, individually, and as independent executor,
Original Grantors as per warranty deed recorded i
Volume 100, Page 424, Real Property Records, Webb
County, Texas) -A2.8669 of an acre tract being out
of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, Original Grantee,
Abstract 280, also being out of a 5.1272 acre tract
(Tract 69) as conveyed by deed from Rodolfo
Salinas, Jr., to Carlos Casiano and wife, Julia
Casiano, as recorded in volume 589, pages 7-3-605,
deed records, Webb County, Texas. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-154.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 97-O-155 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute
all necessary documents to revert a tract of land
containing 20,380.31 square feet, more or less, out
of the Mines Road (FM 1472) R.O.W. to its original
owner, but retaining it as a Drainage & Utility
Easement. Said tract of land being out of a 5.9755
acre tract of land situated in parts of Porcion
Nos. 17 and 18, Webb County, Texas, and being
generally described below and more particularly
described by metes and bounds and providing for an
effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-155.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 97-O-156 Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 95-O-299 by
changing Exhibit A; thereby authorizing the City
Manager to execute database access agreements with
any requestor of online access to inspect city
property tax records database via computer modem;
contract term to change so all will end on
September 30, 2002 and the annual maintenance,
processing, programming, and data manipulation fee
will be eliminated; a one time equipment fee is
required for the cost of the equipment; providing
for an effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-156.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 97-O-157 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a
ground lease with Alderete Communications, Inc., a
Texas Corporation, for the erection, maintenance,
and operation of a skeletal steel guyed
communications tower and associated equipment
building located at the Jefferson Street Water
Complex.
1. Lease term will be fifteen (15) years commencing
July 22, 1997 and ending August 22, 2012 (Date
will be determined after second reading of this
ordinance).
2. Rent will be payable in advance; first year's
rent is $8,676.00, and adjusted annually
according to changes in the consumer price
index. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-157.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 97-O-158 Ordinance approving amendment to the budget in the
amount of $9,500.00, for the Chronic Disease
Prevention Program, Breast and Cervical Cancer
Control Project (BCCCP), of the City of Laredo
Health Department and extension of contract term
period from June 30, 1997, through August 31, 1997,
providing for publication and effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-158.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 97-O-159 Ordinance approving a contract with the University
of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and
budget in the amount of $5,250.00, for the
Education and Training Program of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
February 1, 1997, through September 28, 1997,
providing for publication and effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-159.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 97-O-160 Ordinance approving a contract with the Texas
Natural Resource and Conservation (TNRCC) and
budget in the amount of $25,000.00, to continue the
operation of a continuous air monitoring station
(CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning September 1, 1997, through
August 31, 1998, providing for publication and
effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-160.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. RESOLUTIONS
19. 97-R-076 Re-appointing and appointing the following nominees
of Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr., to the Historic
District/Landmark Board:
Position #1 Appoint Robert Cantu
Position #2 Re-Appoint Elia Pruneda
Position #3 Re-Appoint Lawrence Friedman
Position #4 Appoint Diana Sanchez Schultz
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. 97-R-077 Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Texas Municipal League (TML) to
participate in TML's Group Benefits Risk Pool
Retiree Medical Plan and to provide for an
effective date of October 1, 1997.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-077.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. 97-R-078 Identifying and granting retiree benefits to
employees who retired between January 1, 1987,
through December 31, 1995; and providing for an
effective date of October 1, 1997.
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-078.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. MOTIONS
22. Authorizing the competitive bid award to the Laredo National
Bank for the sale to the City of Laredo of the "Surface Only"
of a tract of land generally described as 0.44900 of an acre,
more or less and being a triangular tract of land situated
immediately east of Lot 1A, Block 1173, Eastern Division, as
further described by metes and bounds, in exchange for the
"Surface Only" of Lots 1 (one), and 2 (two), Block 1190, and
the "Surface Only" of a tract of land containing 0.1181 of an
acre (5,144 square feet) all in the Eastern Division of the
City of Laredo, being more particularly described by metes
and bounds.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids for the purchase of two lift station pumps. The
pumps are required to restore pumping capacity to the
McPherson Lift Station to increase the production of effluent
for reuse at the North Laredo Plant. The project will be
funded by transferring reserve funds to a new project called
"McPherson Lift Station" from the 1994 wastewater bond.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Approval of bid specifications and authorizing the City
Manager to advertise for bids for the following:
a) Portrait of Mr. Luciano Guajardo for the Historical
Collection;
b) signage for book stacks and offices;
c) display system for the multi-purpose room;
d) archival digital scanning equipment;
e) video & CD-ROM servers; and a
f) photo ID machine.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Refund of property taxes in various amounts to the following
company:
a. Taco Bell/Austaco, Inc., in the amount of $3,210.17, as a
result of a double assessment.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application
and execute applicable documents to Central Power and Light
Company in the amount of $100,000.00, to sponsor the Computer
Lab for GED and ESL instruction in the New Main Library.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Motion to authorize submittal of a Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) Section 5307 grant for $2,407,189.00,
operating assistance and $1,376,000.00, capital/planning
assistance for the El Metro Transit System. The funds
represent estimated FY 1998 allocations of FTA funds.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Motion to authorize a $2,912,500.00, ($2,330,000.00 Federal
Share), amendment to Project TX-90-X406 (Federal Transit
Administration Section 5307) to provide funds for the
purchase of eight buses, five vans, three support vehicles
and maintenance equipment for the El Metro Transit System.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Motion to authorize submittal of a grant in the amount of
$1,320,457.00, to the Texas Department of Transportation for
the State Urbanized Transportation Fund for the 1998-99
biennium. The funds requested will be used to support
operating expenses at the El Metro Transit System during the
1998 fiscal year.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. To adopt three additional Retiree Medical Benefit Plans that
will allow retirees under age 65 to purchase Medical Benefits
at reduced rates and to provide for an effective date of
October 1, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Award of a thirty-six month rental contract in the estimated
amount of $58,824.00, to the LOW BIDDER, Ozped, Laredo,
Texas, for providing eleven copiers for various City
Departments. This contract is being awarded to the lowest
bidder based on the lowest cost per copy cost. The per copy
cost includes the use of the copier, a maintenance contract,
and all consumable supplies (toner, developers) during the
three year period. The contract pricing is approximately 5%
less than the previous contract. A total of seven bids were
received. Funding is available in the various department's
contractual services - rental of equipment line item.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Award of supply contracts to the LOW BIDDERS, DPC Industries,
Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas ($136,200.00), Bay Chemical and
Supply, Odem, Texas ($47,200.00), Van Waters & Rodgers,
Corpus Christi, Texas ($42,000.00), Polydnye, Inc.,
Parsippany, NJ ($41,080.00), Calgon Industries, Pittsburgh,
PA ($23,496.00), Environmental Chemical, Alamo, Texas
$20,400.00), La Roche Industries, Waxahachie, Texas
($10,920.00), Phoenix Distribution Service, Houston, Texas
($9,550.00), PENNCO, Belville, Texas ($6,250.00), Acetylene
Oxygen Co., Alice, Texas ($4,980.00) and APG Lime Company,
New Braunfels, Texas ($4,886.40), for the purchase of
chemicals for the Utilities Department.
There is a tie bid from Van Waters & Rodgers, Corpus Christi,
Texas and Kenwater North American, Antioch, California, for
the purchase of ferric sulfate. The contract vendor will be
determined by choosing lots. A total of twenty-one bids were
received. Funding is available in the Utilities Department
line items: Water Treatment Division-Chemicals and Wastewater
Treatment Division-Chemicals.
Cw. Moreno drew lots for the tie bid with the winner being
Kenwater North American for the purchase of ferric sulfate.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Award of five year coin telephone service contract to AT&T,
Dallas, Texas. The City requested proposals from vendors
interested in providing coin operated telephone service,
including long distance service, on City property, in City
facilities, and on City right of way. This includes all coin
telephones placed at current and future locations during the
term of the contract. AT&T provided the most responsive
proposal based on revenue to the City, vendor qualifications,
vendor capability, and general responsiveness to the City's
Request for Proposal (RFP). AT&T has contracted Southwestern
Bell to provide the telephone equipment and coin and intra-
lata, long distance commissions. Based on the commission
structure proposed, the City anticipates yearly revenue of
approximately $38,000.00. This represents a 73% increase in
projected revenues. The Telecommunications Commission
recommends approval of this contract.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Acceptance of the Pace Street Drainage Extension and the
Ligarde/Barrios Drainage Project and approval of final
payment in the amount of $88,991.00, to Ramex Construction
Company, Inc., Houston, Texas. Funding is available in the
Drainage Fund - Pace Street and Ligarde/Barrios Drainage
Project. Contract was completed within the contract time of
131 calendar days at the original contract amount of
$152,315.00.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Approval to select: (1) Porras Engineering Company, Laredo,
Texas, to provide consulting engineering services to include
surveys, design, preparation of plans and specifications with
cost estimates, for a 12 inch diameter Wastewater Trunk Line
(approximately 3500 linear feet) to serve the Santo Nino and
Las Americas areas which will provide relief to a 10 inch
line on Santa Clara; (2) Foster Engineering Company, Laredo,
Texas, to provide consulting engineering services to include
surveys, design, preparation of plans and specifications with
cost estimates for the relocation of utilities and/or
adjustments in conjunction with the Texas Department of
Transportation's (TxDOT) proposed widening of U.S. Highway 59
between San Dario and Ejido. A total of five firms responded
to the City's request for proposals.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Award of an engineering contract to WSBC Civil Engineers,
Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $17,270.00, to
conduct a feasibility study and provide preliminary design
for a 16 Inch Water Line along U.S. Highway 359 to service
the proposed new Fire Training Facility, and the anticipation
of the water services to the colonias located on State
Highway 359. The feasibility study is necessary to determine
and recommend the water line's designated route. Funding is
available in Waterworks System Fund. A total of ten firms
responded to the City's request for proposals on this
project. Contract time is 90 days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Award of an Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Contract to
Design Group International, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not
to exceed $23,924.00, for the design and preparation of plans
and specifications for Roof Repairs at the Center for the
Arts Building Project. Funding is available in General Fund
Building Rehabilitation Account. A total of two firms
responded to the City's request for proposals. Contract time
is 60 days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Award of an Architectural/Engineering (A/E) Contract to
Design Group International, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not
to exceed $13,328.00, to provide surveys, design and the
preparation of plans and specifications for the Market Street
Tennis Courts Improvements. Funding is available in
Community Development - Market Street Courts Account. A total
of thirteen firms responded to the City's request for
proposals. Contract time is 60 days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Approval of a change order no. 2, an increase of $357.60, for
balance of quantities actually constructed in place,
acceptance of the Sidewalks, Storm Drainage, and Curb and
Gutter Improvements on Calton Road, Maher Avenue and Thomas
Avenue (3 streets - approximately 1,700 L.F.) around the New
Laredo Police Station Project, and approval of final payment
in the amount of $30,352.80, to Ramex Construction Company,
Houston, Texas. Original contract amount was for $44,265.00.
Final construction contract amount is $50,861.80. Funding is
available in the Capital Improvement Fund. Contract was
completed within the allotted contract time.
Motion to approve as amended with a correction in the final
payment amount of $30,852.80.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
40. Submission of the Fiscal Year 1997-1998 Annual Budget as per
Article VI, Section 6.02, Submission of Budget of the Charter
of the City of Laredo which states that "sixty (60) days
before the end of the fiscal year, or any time before that,
the City Manager shall present to the Council, in an open
public meeting, after proper public notice, and having been
placed on the Council meeting agenda, a budget for the
ensuing fiscal year with an accompanying message."
Florencio Pena, City Manager, made the formal presentation of
the City Budget to the Council as per Article VI, Section
6.02 of the City Charter. He added that Town Hall meetings
will be scheduled from August 8th thru August 10th.
41. Presentation by the Administrative Services Department
regarding the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability
Act of 1996 (HIPAA), with possible action.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, stated that
representatives from TML were present and prepared to do a 15
minute presentation. He gave an overview of HIPAA which is
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act signed
into law in August 19, 1997 and the intent of the law is to
make health coverage available, portable, and guaranteed
renewable for individuals. It affects the city in the sense
that we as the city have to make a decision to either opt in
or opt out prior to October 1st which is the beginning of the
plan year and because we are non-federal government plan our
health benefit program falls under those guidelines and we
have the ability to opt out. If you are a private insurer
you don't have that same provision. They want to come back
to council with a proposal to opt out and they just basically
want to give council an opportunity to be informed.
Cw. Moreno added that through the committee they spent two
hours with many of these issues. It is the recommendation of
the committee to opt out and what that does is that it
reduces our liability, when we opt out it does not mean that
we wouldn't necessary not provide any of the options that are
provided here. It simply says that we opt out of the
liability that goes with them, they will take each
individually and decide to what extent they would want to
cover those areas. In some cases for example, under the area
of pre-existing conditions, what they now offer is better
than what is being suggested here so when they opt out it is
not that we will not be covering pre-existing conditions, we
cover pre-existing conditions at a better level than what is
being recommended here.
Motion to accept the committees recommendation, which is to
opt out of the HIPAA regulations, that staff comes back with
the proposal to opt out, and that staff keeps Council
informed in any areas as to how they stay up with that.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Request for confirmation of Mr. Keith Selman for appointment
to the position of Planning Director with possible Executive
Session pursuant to section 551.074 of the Texas Government
Code to deliberate the appointment.
Motion to confirming the appointment of Keith Selman as the
Director of the Planning Department.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. COMMUNICATIONS
a. Proclaiming the month of August 1997, as "Picture a Prayer"
month.
Mayor Ramirez publicly read the proclamation and presented it
to the youth group present.
b. Cm. Bruni stated he sent a letter to Honorable Judith
Zaffirini requesting some guidance on a grant application for
funding from the Alternatives Fuel Council and he received
an answer from Carole Rylander, Commissioner of the Texas
Railroad Commission. The letter updated on the Alternative
Fuel Council Grant which was awarded on July 7th. It said
the council awarded the City of Laredo $35,000.00 to help
fund the conversion of 24 city vehicles to compressed natural
gas.
c. Cm. Perez announced the Town Hall Meeting for District I
tomorrow at 6:30 at the Cigarrroa Recreational Center.
Cm. Valdez announced the Town Hall Meeting for District V
at 6:30 at the Northeast Recreation Center.
Mayor Ramirez announced the rest of the Town Hall Meetings
for Districts VI, VII, VIII, III, II and IV.
XI. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
43. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr.
1. Congratulating the Olympia Track Team on qualifying for the
National Junior Olympics to be held in North Carolina, and
requesting any assistance that the City may provide to
facilitate their trip.
Mayor Ramirez congratulated the Olympia Track Team for
qualifying for the National Junior Olympics.
Alex De Luna, Coach of the Olympia Track Team, stated that of
the 29 locals kids who qualified for the meet, 5 qualified
for the National Junior Olympics to be held in North
Carolina. He presented the five youths as follows:
Angeles Pantoja from Cigarroa High School, Allen Myers, Jaime
Valderas from United High, Bobby Most from United High,
Andy Vera from Martin High School and Joe Rubio, III from
Gutierrez Elementary.
Motion to authorize the Mayor to provide funding assistance
to the group for the trip.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Requests by Mayor Pro Tem Jose R. Perez, Jr.
1. Directing staff to research the use of CDBG Section 108 Loan
monies for use in Capital Improvements.
Cindy Collazo, CD Director, summarized the program, outlined
the regulations and the use of eligible activities under
Section 108 Loan monies.
The program consists of Level I which is when the city
borrows federal funds and Level II which city borrows for non
profit when they want to do Community Development activities.
It is up to the discretion of the city to workout the terms
of the loan, it could be either equal to, higher, or lower
than the cost of the funds.
The eligible activities include Economic Development
activities under CDBG, acquisition of real property,
rehab for publicly owned real property, housing rehab
eligible under CDBG, construction, reconstruction, or
installation of public facilities (including street,
sidewalk, and other site improvements); related relocation,
clearance and site improvements, payment of interest on the
guaranteed loan and issuance cost of public offerings; debt
service reserves, public works and site improvements in
colonias; and in limited circumstances, housing construction
as part of community economic development, Housing
Development Grant, Nehemiah Housing Opportunity Grant
Programs.
The rules apply as for CDBG you have to meet one of the
national objectives which is to benefit low-and moderate-
income persons or aid in the elimination or prevention of
slums and blighted, or meet urgent needs of the community.
The maximum commitment amount is again, five times your grant
amount which basically amounts to $20 million.
What is the security that HUD is requesting? They are asking
to pledge the current and future CDBG programs, HUD does not
rely solely on CDBG funds to repay the loan. Additionally
security equals to about 1.25 coverage is also requested so
that at least HUD feels at confort level with the amount
pledged. Some forms of pledging include parking revenues,
lease revenues, pledge of tolls, general obligation, real
estate property, and anything of value that HUD will review.
The maximum repayment period for a Section 108 loan is 20
years, there are different options for repayment. The
community can add a debt service to the loan amount,
structure interest payments for a reasonable amount of time,
create balloon payments.
Interest rates charged on interim borrowing is priced at the
3 month London Interbank Offered (LIBO) rate plus 20 basis
points. As of today it was 5.75 plus 20 basis points. The
permanent financing is based on treasury yield with similar
maturity plus additional basis point spread.
The application is going to be submitted at any time, there
is no particular window for that. The review period
generally takes from 90-120 days (120 being the maximum). It
is first submitted to the HUD-San Antonio Office where they
review it on eligibility and completeness after that it is
forwarded to HUD-Washington to determine any type of
additional security. Once there is approval, then we work
with the San Antonio Office, a public hearing is required,
passage of a resolution is required authorizing the City
Manager to submit the application, as well as executing the
documents.
2. Status report regarding the
a) School Sidewalk Program
b) the CDBG Sidewalk Program
to include completion schedules.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated this project covers 13
schools, 11 are CD and two are non CD. They have completed
four schools - Buenos Aires, Ochoa Sanchez, Memorial Middle
and Nixon High, this report was as of last week, they are
about 25-30% complete, they have four months to compete them,
they are on schedule are for completion on October.
Cindy Collazo, CD Director, stated that on the Neighborhood
CD Program they received all the input from the council as
far as streets were concern, they went on RFPs in June, staff
worked with Mr. G.G. Salinas Engineer because they were
authorized to negotiate contract which they need to bring
back in August, however upon review by Mr. Salinas it was
determined that the estimate was a lot higher because many of
the sidewalks required retaining walls and driveways, and
therefore staff is right now in the process of preparing and
scaling down. They will be coming back to council because it
will probably need a reduction in the number of sidewalks to
be down to about 11 or 12. On August 4th they will bring
back the item to go ahead and contract with Mr. Salinas
because at this point it is important to keep in mind that
any of the engineering cost comes from the same pot of money.
As far as the time line, August to October for design,
November accepting plans and authorization to advertise for
bids, December award for the construction contract, January
to April construction time and acceptance of the project.
C. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on the City of Laredo Drug Testing Policy with
possible action.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, stated that in
April of 1995 they adopted a drug and alcohol testing program
that met with the mandates that deal to the CDL Program and
thus they have the ability to do random testing as well as
pre-employment post accident and reasonable suspicion with
our drivers of equipment that is over 26,000 pounds as well
as the CDL drivers. They have had a very effective program,
all the employees that fall within those categories are
currently and have been in the past tested as needed. There
is a random testing program going on. In January, 1997 the
City Council adopted the Drug/Alcohol Testing Program which
went beyond the DOT Program and allow to start doing pre-
employment testing as well as post accident reasonable
suspicion which they are currently doing now. In 1996 they
administered 75 alcohol oral testing, in drug only 17, in
drug and alcohol 93 all relative to the CDL and DOT Program.
In 1997 they did 47 random alcohol testings, 56 drug testing.
In 1997 they had two (2) identifications of possible results
and actions taken on those. In 1997 to date since they
implemented this program in March they have done 188 pre-
employment drug/alcohol tests of which five (5) of those we
positive and they took action with those. They had one (1)
reasonable suspicion to date, it was positive, and they have
taken action with that. They have had ten (10) Post
Accidents and have had three individuals that have come
forward on a self referral and they are currently working
with those. They have increased the exposure of testing and
when they reviewed the random testing aspect of the
drug/alcohol policy in early 1996, when they were proposing
the program one of the comments that had to be addressed was
are they going with reasonable suspicion and they agreed to
do that. What were they going to do with random testing?
With random testing they had to look at many things. The
courts are not united, there is still the issue of privacy
that they are having to deal with in some cases the courts
rule in favor of the employer in some cases they don't and
after they saw third party counsel outside they recommended
that we not include random testing as part of our overall
city-wide drug testing program. The other is, that if we were
going to do a random test, they are talking about 1,700
employees they would be looking at possibly additional
$127,000-$175,000 that would have to be budgeted for that.
Cw. Bruni is of the opinion that in order to safeguard the
safety of the citizens and the liability of the City that we
should have random drug testing and maybe even be looking at
the possibility of drug testing all our employees including
employees that work as subcontractors to the City of Laredo
as long as it's within the perimeters of the attorney
general's opinion and as long as it is legal.
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, stated that the primary concerns
here is in regard to balancing the important interests of
government and protecting that sensitive information,
security of employees and enhancing the work by its
integrity. The very important government interest vs. the
very important 4th Amendment U.S. Constitution Right of
Privacy that the employee has. So in random testing it's not
that balancing where we are seeking to obtain. Courts have
pretty much looked at both sides of the issue and rule from
a municipality a government must have a compelling interest
in order and that compelling interest of the government must
out weigh or be greater than the privacy interest in order
for that privacy interest of the individual to be overcome
and it can be especially in the areas where we are talking
about security sensitive or safety (firefighters, policemen,
nurses, technicians who have very high degree of safety where
random testing is a compelling interest of the government vs.
the privacy interest. So it would not be prudent or
advisable to just go forward with random testing of all city
employees taking the same mentioned factors in a secretarial
job as opposed to a person who carries a firearm for example.
They are looking at that in presenting to council a policy
that would protect the employees of the City while respecting
the very important privacy interest.
2. Presentation by Dr. Jose G. Garcia, M.D., M.P.H. on alcohol
and drug abuse with possible action.
Dr. Garcia stated that he is in support of the idea or making
sure that the rights of all of the employees are protected,
however there is an area where he has some concern about that
has to do with the area of testing for reasonable suspicion.
It is his understanding that if the supervisors have not
received adequate training for recognition of the elements
that constitute reasonable suspicion and adequate
documentation has not been maintained on a progressive basis,
then the testing for reasonable suspicion may not be
supported by court action. He thinks that the reasonable
suspicion testing is the one that has to have the most
detailed and most precise documentation, including very
careful training of the personnel that makes the decision
that a particular person falls under the category of
reasonable suspicion. He thinks that type of training is
what a complete package of drug testing must include, and
that they have to have adequate training for the people
that are going to be implementing the reasonable suspicion
testing so they can recognize the individuals who in fact has
a history of impairment that is more than likely caused by
use of alcohol.
Motion to instruct staff to get together with Dr. Garcia
to formulate something to guide us as to what needs to be
done, what steps and technical must be taken, get recommend-
ations, and get a cost estimate of what it would cost to
implement Dr. Garcia's recommendations.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. "Poncho" Casso
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the Mayor Pro Tem's
authority, duties, and responsibilities.
Cm. Casso stated that he received a letter from the City
Manager addressed to the council which states that the basic
issues were:
(1) Does the election of a council member by his/her peers to
the Office of Mayor Protem divest that council member of
his/her voting privileges to him/her by the electorate,
and replace such voting power with the voting power of
the mayor? or,
(2) Does the Mayor Protem retain his/her general voting
priveleges? and,
(3) If the council member retains his/her voting power, does
the council member gain, in addition to his/her vote as a
council member, the voting powers of the Mayor?
Cm. Casso stated that his concern is that the City Charter
provides explicit authority powers for the Office of the
Mayor, but it does not do so for the Mayor Protem. There is
a city ordinance 90-O-101 which addresses the Mayor Protem's
duties, but it doesn't specifically address the issue of
voting authority. So he thinks this is something this
council need to debate and probably going to have to make an
amendment to this ordinance and bring back to council because
he knows staff already contacted the Attorney General's
Office, TML, and it is up to this council to decide what it
is going to be. The way he sees the issue is that there are
8 members on the council and the Mayor, so if the vote is
4 to 4 the Mayor breaks the tie, but if the Mayor resigns it
will be a Mayor Protem with seven Councilmembers and if for
some reason council votes 4 to 3, he still retains his voting
privileges and you would have grid lock for three long
months. If he uses his veto power, he could veto anything he
wants because the Charter explicitly states that you need 5
Councilmember votes to override his veto, he could literally
veto everything and they wouldn't be able to do anything if
they only have four members that would agree with him. So
this poses a dilemma and he thinks this should be discussed
as to what needs to be done because it up to this council and
instruct staff to bring back an amendment if that is what
council wants to do.
Motion to instruct staff to bring an amendment to the
ordinance on the powers of the Mayor Protem, that if the
Mayor Protem accepts or assumes the responsibilities as Mayor
Protem that he looses the power as a City Councilmember, the
voting rights, so that he can carry out the Mayor's job.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the Wrecker Service
Ordinance.
Cm. Casso read a letter from a constituent as follows:
Mr. Casso: I've been trying to work with the Mayor on this
problem, but we have trouble getting together, maybe you
can also help. My wife's car was one of the ones that the PD
recovered across the river and I was contacted last Thursday
June 5th via registered mail that the car was at Orozco's. I
do not mind paying a fare fee for the recovery of my
property, but I feel that what is being asked is way out of
line. Second fact, she has the charges that Orozco wants me
to pay, I called another tow truck service locally to get a
price for towing a vehicle, I told them that my car had been
broken down at the airport and if they would be able to tow
the car from Nuevo Laredo to my home in North Laredo. They
said they would be able to do it with no problems, I asked
the price, they quoted it would cost $150.00 to $180.00.
Orozco is charging $600.00 just for Nuevo Laredo towing.
Also after being notified that the car was here in Laredo, I
went to look at it and its missing the radio, battery and
spare, I borrowed a battery and the car started with no
problems, this car didn't need to be towed it could have been
driven back from Nuevo Laredo. Like I stated before I don't
mind paying a fare fee, but $948.00 just doesn't seem right."
Cm. Casso stated this gentlemen is still asking about this
fees and wants to know what staff recommends.
Mayor Ramirez stated he called the towing service and they
told him they would work with him and that was the last he
heard.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated he does not have the
details on this situation, but that we have regulations as to
how much they can charge and that he will look at the
situation presented.
Mr. Hector Cabello, owner of Cabello Wrecker Service, stated
he feels that being sustained from the rotation list hurt his
business because he has 15 wreckers, to this time he does not
know what violations occurred in his business or why was he
dismissed from the rotation list.
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Chief of Police, stated that the
bottom line is that his permit expired on June 30th and he
did not renew it, so he was automatically not on the rotation
list as of that date.
Mr. Cabello stated that to get a permit from the City of
Laredo the officer has to sign this and he has to submit
$50.00, the check was ready the officer never came up with
the permit. He presented a paper officer drawn by Officer
Morales that has never been circled or filled out. He added
he never got a notice for renewal or expiration of the
permit.
Cm. Alvarado stated that due process was not followed, there
is a check off list, if there are any non-complying items
they should have provided them in writing, he asked Officer
Morales to do it, and he said that he would.
Interim Chief Dovalina stated he will look into the matter
and find exactly what transpired with Mr. Cabello.
Cm. Casso requested something in writing as to what staff is
going to do.
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the creation of a
tree department and committee for the City's participation in
the Tree City USA Program.
This item was discussed together with Cm. Valdez's F(2).
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that this task will be
assigned to the new director.
Lynn Nava, from the Parks & Recreation Department, reported
that it was the recommendation of the Parks & Recreation
Committee that a Tree Board be created.
Cm. Casso stated that he wants something in the budget for
the next fiscal year and he suggested that the board be
formed.
E. Requests by Councilmember Cecilia May Moreno
1. Discussion and possible action on setting a timeline
identifying possible funding sources and alignment of the
proposed Outer Loop.
Motion to set a timeline identifying possible funding sources
and alignment of the proposed Outer Loop.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
F. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the upgrading of the
lighting at Cruz Field.
Motion to look for monies and bring back during to the budget
hearings.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the City initiating
a tree reclamation program.
Cm. Valdez requested for staff to approach the City of
Brownsville to see what they are doing and get costs.
3. Status report regarding where the City is with regard to the
selection of a legislative liaison, with possible action.
(Co-Sponsored by Mayor Pro Tem Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to recommend Raul Liendo as the legislative liaison at
$12,500 per year as our Austin representative and instruct
staff to bring back a contract for council approval.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
The second was withdrawn.
Cm. Casso requested that council should interview the
applicants before hiring anyone or awarding a contract.
Mr. Liendo stated that he would bypass his presentation and
present it at an interview with council and the rest of the
applicants.
Motion to set a date for interviews, advice the applicants of
the date of the interviews, and bring back to council with a
recommendation by the next council meeting.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
G. Requests by Councilmember Joe A. Guerra
1. Presentation by Frank Leach from the Laredo Development
Foundation regarding the development of a Public/Private
Partnership to Streamline the City's Platting & Building
Permit Process.
Frank Leach spoke before Council on behalf of the Laredo
Builders Association, Gateway Chapter/Texas Society of
Professional Engineers, Laredo Chamber of Commerce and the
Laredo Development Foundation to present 3 preliminary
actions and 12 outlined recommendations to streamline the
platting and building permit process.
The three preliminary actions were:
(A) Request that City Staff members from Traffic, Planning,
Environment, Utilities and Building Permits immediately
schedule a meeting with our private sector group to
further refine our recommendations into a list of action
items to be considered by the City Council.
(B) Request that the City Council Workshop to review these
action items with City Staff and our private sector group
to scheduled as soon as possible, preferably as soon as
the City Budget Hearings are concluded.
(C) Request that the City Staff immediately help our private
sector group review and revise our draft City
Specification Book.
The 12 outline recommendations were:
1 - Adoption of a City of Laredo Construction Specification
Book is a top priority. A draft copy has been prepared
and should be reviewed, revised and agreed-upon by the
City Staff and the private sector beginning immediately.
2 - The private sector must be required to submit complete
applications to all concerned City Departments for
preliminary plans, master plans, construction plans,
permits, final approval, etc., based on written
checklists maintained by each department.
3 - City Staff and the private sector should begin within the
next 45 days to establish specific policy, procedures and
checklist necessary to file plats, seek P & Z approvals,
approve plans for construction, final acceptance of
projects and final acceptance with letters in a timely
manner. This would also include construction water meter
permits, street cut permits, building permits and
requirements necessary for environmental and traffic
approvals.
4 - A Policy and Procedure Handbook should then be prepared
to include a flow chart and specific requirements
established by the City so that anyone, local or
otherwise, would know exactly how to get something
accomplished in this community.
5 - Private sector engineers should be made responsible for
micro-managing & inspecting projects to reduce the City
Staff workload & free-up City engineers for more
important works such as preparing for future growth.
6 - A One-Stop Center for building permits and utility
permits should be created to help speed-up the process of
paying all the various permit fees.
7 - For private sector projects, the owner of the project
will select the Testing Laboratory from a list of
qualified testing laboratories to be maintained by the
City Engineer.
8 - Planning & Zoning Commission Agendas: Any person or
entity that files a plan that does not require a public
hearing, and has the appropriate fees and submitted all
required documentation, must be placed on the P & Z
agenda for its next meeting. Any request requiring a
public hearing should be placed on the agenda once proper
notice of such meeting has been given ad defined by State
Law.
9 - Voluntary Annexations: To speed-up the entry of new
projects into the marketplace, voluntary annexations
should be made quarterly instead of annually. Although
an additional staff person would be required at the
Planning Department, this minor City expense would remove
what is now a time-constraint on the development of new
projects.
10 - City Computer Equipment: To make the process more
efficient the City should (a) invest in an Internet
Server, (b) network all departmental computers so that
inter-communication between department can be facilitated
through e-mail, (c) place and keep updated all
subdivision, development and zoning ordinances on the
City's Web Site, and (d) purchase computers for the
Building Permit Office.
11 - Fee Structure: All current City fees relating to
building projects should be reviewed and compared to
other Cities and revised if necessary to make Laredo cost
competitive.
12 - Technical Review Board: (Not to duplicate any functions
of the Planning & Zoning Commission)
The City should establish a Technical Review Board made
up of representatives of City Staff and the private
sector (engineers, contractors and testing labs)
The purpose of this group would be to provide input to
the City Manager and City Council with regard to
technical matters involved in construction and
development. This board would seek to implement
productive and efficient policies and procedures for the
purpose of providing cost effective development and
construction.
This Board would review all technical provisions and
specification changes recommended by Engineering,
Planning, Utilities, Environment, Traffic and Building
Permit Department to provide private sector business
input with regard to cost/benefit analysis and
historical/practical use and effectiveness of the
proposed changes.
Mr. Pena stated that what is referred to is the Ad Hoc
Ordinance Committee that has been created by Council,
staff has been meeting with them for the last three
months, basically the approach that Mr. Leach and the
other members are proposing is much more focused. They
have met with this group already and he feels that they
have made good progress with it, there are a few points
that they may still disagree, on but he will bring those
to City Council.
Motion to instruct staff to proceed with the three steps
that have been recommended by Mr. Leach and that they
come back to Council within 90 days with a preliminary
recommendation as to how to work this process up.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
H. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Update by the Utilities Department regarding the Santa Isabel
Water Well Project, with possible action.
Jerry Pinzon, Assistant Utilities Director, reported that
after the exploratory drilling that they did to increase the
production they found one of the indexes of the quality of
the water was higher than what it was originally assigned for
so what they are doing is a pilot test to see what they are
going to have to do. They are going to have to do extra
treatment for it and so they asked the engineering staff to
investigate what that pre-treatment is going to be. They got
some quality samples on Friday and were sent for testing and
they will get the results by the end of the week.
Cm. Alvarado stated that the concern was that this well has
been under construction since 1993 at a cost of $1.5 million
and not one single drop of water has been produced and that
the area residents are waiting for water service.
Mr. Pinzon stated that the contractor was put on notice for
delinquent charges, they started the project later than they
were supposed to, so there has been some problems. The well
has been constructed, it is the filtration system that is the
problem.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that this project has
had quite a few difficulties associated with it, one of the
alternatives that they have in place right now is the
Colonias Project which is going to provide water service
along Mines Road. The Santa Isabel Project will then be a
support system entirely at that point and a really not of
much use at that point unless they can tie it as a redundant
or a secondary system to that, so the priority right now is
to get the Colonia Project done and it is unfortunate it was
a risk whenever you build water wells and the risk that was
taken here, and the risk that was taken here has not played
it way out completely at this point, they are trying to
salvage as much as they can of this project.
Mayor Ramirez stated there is difficulty with the water
quality and that the problem has been that the filtrations
system installed was not capable of cleaning out the water.
Cm. Alvarado stated that he wants a written report and the
status of the project at every first meeting of the month.
He also requested that at the next meeting staff present a
full budget report to how much money has been spent in this
project.
2. Discussion and possible action requesting street maintenance
on the railroad crossing at Industrial Boulevard.
Motion to force clean the area.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: Abstain: 0
(Cm. Casso & Cm. Guerra were out temporarily.)
3. Follow-up on a request by City Council for a traffic signal
at Mines Road and Rancho Viejo, with possible action.
Luis Landin, Traffic Manager, reported that the signal design
has already been completed, they will present to TxDoT for
approval, it might be approved because that area warrants the
signal, they have to order the poles which will take three
months to received because they have to be fabricated. They
might have the signal by the 1st of December.
Cm. Alvarado stated that on a previous meeting it was stated
that it would be installed by November. His concern is that
school starts in August and the biggest concern is the
traffic trying to turn to Rancho Viejo. He wants staff to do
anything that can be done to expedite the timetable earlier
than November.
Mr. Murillo stated that the manufacturers have indicated that
if they want a faster delivery of the poles, they might be
able to do it but at a much higher cost.
Mr. Landin stated they will try to expedite this as soon as
possible.
4. Discussion and possible action concerning acquiring an
easement along the creek located between Finley Elementary
School and Saint Jude Church.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that there is a
drainage easement already in that area (north of Bristol Road
all the way to Rancho Viejo), south of that is privately
owned.
Cm. Alvarado stated that the concern that some people from
the Parish have expressed whether the city needs to acquire
some type of easement or right-of-way that is wide enough
to be able to go in there with the machinery to do regular
maintenance.
Mr. Rivera answered that Public Works does regular
maintenance, and in fact done maintenance on the private area
because of the health hazard. He added that it does belong
to the city, it is a dedicated drainage easement that is part
of the development.
Mayor Ramirez stated that we can go in there, and wants that
staff check just to make sure, and see if there is adequate
distance in the easement available in and out due to the
construction by the church.
I. Requests by Councilmember Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the sale of three
surplus vehicles to our Sister City of Cienega de Flores,
Nuevo Leon, Mexico, as follows:
Vehicle Value
a. 1977 Chevrolet C-65 Truck, $3500
b. 1986 Ford Pick-up, $2000
c. 1990 Chevrolet Pick-up. $4000
(Co-sponsored by Cm. Eliseo Valdez, Jr.)
Motion to proceed with the sale on the same basis as the
vehicles that were sold to Nuevo Laredo.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
44. Public hearing concerning the application by B.P. Newman
Investment Company, Max L. Watts, President amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
27.9858 acres, as further described by metes and bounds,
located on Ejido Avenue, south of Los Obispos Subdivision,
from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-1-MH (Single
Family Manufactured Housing 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 27.9858 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located on Ejido Avenue, south of Los
Obispos Subdivision, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to
R-1-MH (Single Family Manufactured Housing District);
providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
45. Public hearing concerning the application by B.P. Newman
Investment Company, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 20.0801 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds, located southeast of the
intersection of Sierra Vista Boulevard and Ejido Avenue, from
R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-1-MH (Single Family
Manufactured Housing 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 20.0801 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located southeast of the intersection of
Sierra Vista Boulevard and Ejido Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed
Residential District) to R-1-MH (Single Family Manufactured
Housing District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
46. Public hearing concerning the application by Antonio
Gonzalez, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 2, Block 1, Los Presidentes
Subdivision, Unit III, located at 3519 Pine Street from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Business
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 2, Block 1, Los Presidentes
Subdivision, Unit III, located at 3519 Pine Street from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Business
District); providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Diego Rodriguez, 3509 Hein, spoke against the zone change
request.
Mrs. Graciela Gonzalez, Child Care Provider, spoke in favor
of the zone change request for the purpose of providing a Day
Care Center. She presented a list of 72 signatures in favor
of allowing the Day Care Center at this location.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
47. Public hearing concerning the application by Del Trautman,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 22 acres, as further described by metes and bounds,
located on the south side of Del Mar Boulevard, south of
Bermuda Dunes Subdivision, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District), R-2 (Multi-Family Residential
District) and B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4
(Highway Commercial 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 22 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located on the south side of Del Mar Boulevard,
south of Bermuda Dunes Subdivision, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District), R-2 (Multi-Family Residential
District) and B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4
(Highway Commercial District); providing for an effective
date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Del Trautman, representing the property owner, appeared
before the council to speak in favor of the zone change
request.
Motion to close the public hearing and table the item for the
August 18th meeting.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Public hearing concerning the application by Eduard C. Hachar
and Robert D. Hachar, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a
Conditional Use Permit for a child education/day care center
on Lots 1 and 2, Block 1697, Eastern Division, located at
2801 and 2807 East Fremont Street. The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of this conditional use
permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use
Permit for a child education/day care center on Lots 1 and 2,
Block 1697, Eastern Division, located at 2801 and 2807 East
Fremont; providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman, Planning & Zoning Director, made the
presentation.
There was no public input.
Cm. Bruni stated that the concerns were the off-street
parking. When children will be dropped off, the residents
were concern that they would be coming off Arkansas and
blocking traffic, the residents on the north side, when
trying to pull of their driveways would be impacted by
vehicles that are parked there dropping off the children. He
would like to make sure that there is no off-street parking
at all and that the children are not dropped off in front of
the building by somehow access thru the parking area in the
back. He told his constituents that he met with 8 families
of the area and that he would table issue to the following
meeting so that they can get together with the developer and
the residents so that they can rest assure that there will be
no interruption of traffic going in and out.
Motion to close the public hearing, table for the next
council meeting with the recommendation on site specific
parking.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Public hearing concerning the application by Ernesto J.
Cardenas, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use
Permit for a grocery store on Lot 7, and part of Lot 6, Lot
8, and part of Lot 5, Block 1705, Eastern Division, located
at 2820 Chihuahua Street. On appeal, the City Council at the
meeting of May 27, 1997, requested that the item be sent back
to the Planning and Zoning Commission for consideration of a
conditional use permit. The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends denial of this conditional use permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use
Permit for a grocery store on Lot 7, and part of Lot 6, Lot
8, and part of Lot 5, Block 1705, Eastern Division, located
at 2820 Chihuahua Street; providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Mr. Ernesto Cardenas, spoke in
favor of the Conditional Use Permit for this property for use
as a small grocery store.
Mr. Ernesto Cardenas, property owner, spoke in favor of being
granted the zone change request.
Sylvia Tays of 2804 Rosario spoke in favor of the zone change
request by Mr. Cardenas.
Ms. Nora Valdez spoke in favor of the zone change request.
Ms. Delfina Martinez spoke in favor.
Maria Ibarra, 2903 Chihuahua, spoke against the zone change
requested by Mr. Cardenas.
Mrs. Maria Lara spoke against the zone change request.
Cm. Bruni turned in a list of 30 signatures who were in favor
of the zone change request.
Motion to close the public hearing and over rule the Planning
and Zoning Commission and grant the zone change request.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 3 Against: 5 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni Cm. Perez
Cm. Casso Cw. Moreno
Cm. Guerra Cm. Valdez
Cm. Alvarado
Cw. Montalvo
50. Public hearing concerning the application by Jacaman
Investment Group, LTD, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 107.74 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds, located east of the Bob
Bullock Loop and 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 107.74 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located east of the Bob Bullock Loop and
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. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
51. Public hearing concerning the application by Jacaman
Investment Group, LTD, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 10.997 acres, located at 7100
Bob Bullock Loop, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-3
(Community Business 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 10.997 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located at 7100 Bob Bullock Loop, from AG
(Agricultural District) to B-3 (Community Business District);
providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
52. Public hearing concerning the application by Jacaman
Investment Group, LTD, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 21.849 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds, located east of the Bob
Bullock Loop and north of Casa Blanca Lake, from AG
(Agricultural District) to R-2 (Multi-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 21.849 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds, located east of the Bob Bullock Loop and
north of Casa Blanca Lake, from AG (Agricultural District) to
R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District); providing for an
effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
53. Public hearing concerning the application by Robert
Kitzmiller for Border Broadcasters, Inc., amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1, 2,
3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12, Block 1481-A, Eastern
Division, located on South Zapata Highway at Wooster Street,
from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District). This is an appeal from a recommendation
for denial by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,
and 12, Block 1481-A, Eastern Division, located on South
Zapata Highway at Wooster Street, from B-3 (Community
Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District);
providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing property owner, spoke in favor
stating the this facility will be use as a Community
Corrections Center/Halfway House for federal prisoners from
the area.
Mr. Pedro Gonzalez spoke against this facility because it
would be near his home.
Motion to close the public hearing and deny the zone change
request.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
54. Public hearing concerning the application by Dr. George
Garcia, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 3.5 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located at 301 International Boulevard, from B-3
(Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
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 3.5 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds, located at 301 International Boulevard, from B-3
(Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
District); providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
55. Public hearing concerning the application by A.F. Muller,
Jr., amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 2 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located at 405 A.F. Muller Sr., Memorial Boulevard,
from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-3 (Community
Business 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 2 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located at 405 A.F. Muller Sr., Memorial Boulevard,
from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-3 (Community
Business District); providing for an effective date and
publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Alvarado
56. 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 3.409 acres out of Porcion 19, Abstract
591, as further described by metes and bounds, located west
of F.M. 1472 across from the old municipal airport, from M-1
(Light Manufacturing District) to B-3 (Community Business
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 3.409 acres out of Porcion 19, Abstract
591, as further described by metes and bounds, located west
of F.M. 1472 across from the old municipal airport, from M-1
(Light Manufacturing District) to B-3 (Community Business
District); providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of the Killam Industrial Park,
spoke in favor.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Alvarado
57. Public hearing concerning the application by Edmundo Gomez,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 3, Block 619, Western Division, located at 2314
Ventura Street, from R-2 (Multi-Family Residential 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 3, Block 619, Western Division,
located at 2314 Ventura Street, from R-2 (Multi-Family
Residential District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District);
providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
58. Public hearing concerning the application by Applied
Petroleum Technologies, Sam J. Susser, amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1 and
3, Block 169, Western Division, located at 1002 Santa Maria
Avenue, from R-O (Residential/Office District) to B-1
(Limited Business 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 1 and 3, Block 169, Western Division,
located at 1002 Santa Maria Avenue, from R-O
(Residential/Office District) to B-1 (Limited Business
District); providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Sergio Davila spoke in favor to ease the traffic flow.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
59. Public hearing approving an amendment to the budget in the
amount of $37,691.00, for the HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities
for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Project of the City of Laredo
Health Department, and extension of contract term period from
June 30, 1997 through January 31, 1998.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving an amendment to the budget in the amount
of $37,691.00, for the HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities for
Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Project of the City of Laredo
Health Department, and extending the contract period from
July 1, 1996, through June 30, 1997 to July 1, 1996, through
January 31, 1998; and increase revenue line item 226-0000-
323-4058 from $55,996.00, to $93,687.00, and expenditure line
item 226-6040 from $55,996.00 to $93,687.00.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
60. Public hearing allowing interested persons to comment on the
1997 Consolidated Plan which identifies 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). The projects are as follows:
23rd Action Year CDBG ($4,372,000)
1. Administration . . . . . . . . . . .$ 561,825 2.
Housing 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 II. . . . . . . . . . .$ 800,000
7. Gallagher Street Improvements . . . .$ 110,000
8. Guadalupe Street Improvements . . . .$ 50,000
9. Zacate Creek Beautification . . . . .$ 300,000
10. El Portal Riverfront
Feasibility . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 23,000
11. Sidewalk Program (All CD District
$307,296 and Districts 2, 3, & 4 -
$477,000) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 784,296
12. Paving Project 60 Grants . . . . . .$ 27,673
13. Tinaja/Chacon Creek Pilot
Channel Phase I . . . . . . . . . . .$ 358,000
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. Maryland Toddler Park
(Adjacent to Health Department) . . .$ 6,000
20. Los Dos Laredo Park Improvements . .$ 4,000
21. Zacate Creek Park Soccer
Field Improvements. . . . . . . . . .$ 17,780
HOME Investment Partnerships Program
1997 Grant $1,192,000
1. Downpayment Assistance. . . . . . . .$ 700,000
2. New Construction. . . . . . . . . . .$ 200,134
3. Community Housing
Development Organization. . . . . . .$ 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
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cindy Collazo, CD Director, reported that item #21 needs to
the reflect the correct amount of $4,000, instead of $17,780.
Mr. Richard Flyn asked how the homeless are to be served with
the proposed $34,500.
Mrs. Collazo replied that this amount is for RFPs for an
agency to assist for mortgage payments, rent assistance, etc.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
XIII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene at The Laredo Mass
Transit Board.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
61. Motion to adopt the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program
and 22% Goal for 1997-98.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
62. Approval of change order No. 6, an increase of $16,716.12, to
the Intermodal Transit Center construction contract with
Ramex Construction Company, Houston, Texas, for the addition
of elevator sump pumps, heat detectors and metal partitions
to comply with recent State and Local elevator code
revisions; and interior changes to the office towers as
requested by City staff. Original contract amount was for
$8,009,000.00. This change order will bring the total
$8,735,959.45.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to recess as City Council and convene at The Laredo
Mass Transit Board.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Adjournment time: 9:55 p.m
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 48
ARE TRUE, COMPLETE AND CORRECT PROCEEDINGS OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL
MEETING HELD ON THE 21ST DAY OF JULY, 1997. A CERTIFIED COPY IS ON
FILE AT THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY