CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M98-R-14 MARCH 16, 1998
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Protem Jose R. Perez, Jr., called
the meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Protem Perez led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
JOSE R. PEREZ, JR., COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT I
LOUIS H. BRUNI, " , DISTRICT II
CECILIA MAY MORENO, " , DISTRICT IV
ELISEO VALDEZ, " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
MARIO G. ALVARADO, " , DISTRICT VII
CONSUELO "CHELO" MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, III, CITY MANAGER
JAIME L. FLORES, CITY ATTORNEY
ABSENCES:
Motion to excuse Mayor Elizabeth Flores due to out-of-town business
commitment and Cm. Casso.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Protem Perez was chairing the meeting and not voting.
Motion waive the regular order of business and move up items A(1), #5 and
#38, D(1), and #14.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. City Council Meeting of February 2, 1998
City Council Special Meeting of February 9, 1998
Workshop on Economic Sales Tax February 11, 1998
City Council Meeting of February 17, 1998
Workshop Financing Bridge IV February 23, 1998
Tour of River Road Project February 26, 1998
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Guerra had left the meeting.
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
3. Amending Chapter 2, Article II, Division 6, of the Code of Ordinances
of the City of Laredo, entitled pay administration, by amending
Sections 2.87.7(d)(15)(b), thereby adopting a revised pay schedule
increasing all steps in all grades in the pay schedule from two and
one half percent (2 1/2%) to three and one-half percent (3 1/2%) with
an effective date of implementation of April 1, 1998; and Amending
Section 2.87.7(d)(15)(c), thereby adopting a revised pay schedule
decreasing all steps in all grades in the pay schedule from two and
one half percent (2 1/2%) to one and one half percent (1 1/2%), with
an effective date of implementation of September 30, 1998.
Motion to amend the ordinance to increase to 5% pay increase effective
April 1, 1998.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 2 Against: 2 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni Cm. Alvarado Cw. Moreno
Cm. Valdez Cw. Montalvo
Motion to amend the ordinance fails.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Ordering and proclaiming a general city election to be held on
Saturday, May 2, 1998, designating polling places, designating the
run-off date, and providing for publication.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas calling a
Section 4B Sales and Use Tax Special Election to be held within the
City on May 2, 1998, making provisions for the conduct thereof and
other provisions relating thereto. The proposed Section 4B Sales and
Use Tax would create a Development Corporation to undertake economic
development projects to create jobs and improve the quality of life in
Laredo, Texas. A one-fourth cent (1/4 cent) Sales and Use Tax is
proposed. (This item is related to Agenda Item No. 38 and should be
considered simultaneously).
This ordinance was postponed for August 8, 1998 election, subject to
changes upon final reading in June.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #98-O-058,
#98-O-076, #98-O-077, #98-O-079, #98-O-080, #98-O-081,
and #98-O-082.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. 98-O-058 Ordinance to create two new positions as required by a
grant, awarded by the United States Environmental Protection
Agency through the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission to develop a "HazMat Education and Enforcement
Program" for the period from January 1, 1998 through August
31, 1999 and authorizing the City Manager to implement
changes within the budget. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-058.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. 98-O-076 Establishing a 15% penalty on delinquent tax accounts as of
July 1, 1998, to defray cost of collection pursuant to
Section 33.07(a) of the Property Tax Code. (City Council)
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 98-O-077 Approving the amendment to the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and budget in the amount of
$235,954.00, in additional funds for the Maternal and Child
Health (MCH) of the City of Laredo Health Department for the
period September 1, 1997, through August 31, 1998. (City
Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-077.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 98-O-078 Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances by creating
Article IX of Chapter 21, titled "Noise Nuisances," thereby
establishing an article regulating excessive noise,
declaring noise nuisances and providing for a penalty
thereof; deleting subsection 21-17(5) concerning general
nuisances which having been incorporated into Article IX.;
deleting Chapter 28, Article IV. titled Sound Amplification
Devices, which having been incorporated into Article IX.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-078.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 98-O-079 Amending Section 24.82 of the Laredo Land Development Code
by allowing for the use of temporary signage along US and
State Highways during times of reconstruction on those
highways. (As Amended) (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-079.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 98-O-080 Amending ordinance 96-O-198 of the code of ordinances of the
City of Laredo to permit two-way traffic northbound and
southbound on the 100 to 300 blocks of San Pablo Avenue on a
three (3) block segment between Iturbide and Water Streets
and authorizing the City Manager to take the necessary steps
to enforce this ordinance.
(Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-080.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 98-O-081 Amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Annual Budget by
authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment
(increase) to the Laredo Municipal Transit Systems FY 1997-
98 operating budget (revenue and expenditures; Fund 558) in
the amount of $5,998.00, to $7,037,495.00 to $7,031,497.00;
transferring funds from the transit sales tax proceeds
budget reserve account (Fund 518).
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-081.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 98-O-082 Amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Hotel-Motel budget
in the amount of $36,454.00, to be used for direct
advertising and other related expenditures. These monies
result from excess FY 1996-1997 balances in the Hotel-Motel
fund from prior year collected taxes; and authorizing the
City Manager to implement said budget.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-082.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. RESOLUTIONS
14. 98-R-03 Declaring the public necessity to acquire the "Surface Only"
of one parcel of land needed as Right-of-Way for the
widening of Gallagher Avenue from the North right-of-way
line of Calton Road, north to the South right-of-way line of
Hillside Road. Said parcel being the East fifteen feet of
Block No. 19 in the Calton Gardens Subdivision No. 1, City
of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, and authorizing the City
Attorney to initiate eminent domain proceedings to acquire
said parcel as Right-of-Way if staff is unable to acquire
through negotiations due to inability to agree to a purchase
price, conflict of ownership, owner's refusal to sell,
and/or inability to locate the listed owner.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-03.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to excuse Cm. Guerra.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Guerra left the meeting at 6:35 p.m.
15. 98-R-035 Authorizing the use of surplus proceeds from the contractual
obligation series 1995 in the amount of $72,597.06 to
purchase vehicles with CNG System, in addition to the
February sale of $16,160,000.00, Certificates of Obligation.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-035.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 98-R-042 Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
the Department of Treasury/U.S. Customs Service for the
reimbursement of $5,000.00, for funding the Laredo Border
Violence Task Force to assist in conducting official
Treasury investigations. These monies will be used to pay
overtime wages to Laredo Police Narcotics officers involved
in this operation. This will be the first year the City has
entered into this agreement and is at no cost to the City.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-042.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 98-R-043 Expressing official intent to reimburse costs of
International Bridge Systems Improvements for the Laredo
Northwest International Bridge project (Bridge IV) in the
amount of $36,900,000.00, from the permanent financing
facility which will include State Infrastructure Bond (SIB)
loans, a tax-exempt debt issue, and a taxable debt issue.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-043.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 98-R-044 Authorizing the City Manager of the City of Laredo to accept
a grant (reimbursement program) from the Texas Historical
Commission for certified local government funding in the
amount of $3,500.00 for the production of a Laredo Area
Cemetery Preservation Plan; and authorizing the City Manager
to execute the necessary documents.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-044.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. 98-R-045 Amending Resolution No. 97-R-127, which authorized the
execution of a Right of Entry and Possession instrument
between the City of Laredo and Fasken Ltd., a Texas Limited
Partnership, and by which the City was granted the right to
enter upon, and take possession of two tracts containing
57.5827 and 11.2571 acres of land, respectively, and owned
by Fasken Ltd. Said proposed amendment will provide for the
addition of a third 5.1907 acre tract of land to the above
referenced Right of Entry and Possession instrument for an
amended total of 74.02 acres.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. MOTIONS
20. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
for the following:
a) Copier Rental - Engineering Department
b) Anionic Polymer (Water Treatment Chemical)
Utilities Department
c) Creek Cleaning Equipment - Public Works Department
2 - 12 cubic yard dump trucks
2 - Tractor with 24" boom brush cutter
1 - Tractor with 60" side-mounted rotary mower and 96" rear mounted
lift type rotary mower
1 - Tractor with 60" rotary mower
A tentative award date is scheduled for April 20, 1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for Street Improvements on the 2500 Block of South Malinche
Avenue between Zacatecas - Chacota and Parking Lot Improvements for
the Cigarroa Park and South Laredo Fire Station with tentative award
on April 20, 1998. This is a cost sharing project with the Laredo
National Bank contributing $97,460.00, and the City's share being
$50,000.00, plus right-of-way dedication and engineering services.
Funding is available in the 1998 Contractual Obligation Issue Cigarroa
Parking Lot Construction Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Approval of the specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
for the Pre-Engineered/
Prefabricated Steel Pedestrian Bridge for the Northeast Hillside
Recreation Center and Park, and approval to seek Request for Proposals
for structural engineering services for the design of bridge
abutments; and proposals for geotechnical (subsurface) evaluation, if
needed, with tentative award on April 20, 1998. Funding is available
in the Capital Improvement Fund Northeast Hillside Park.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs) for
consulting engineering services to identify alternative alignments for
the extension of Bartlett Avenue from Hillside Road to Del Mar Blvd.,
approximately 16,500 linear feet, and to include surveys/plats for the
right-of-way acquisition, and ultimately for the design and
preparation of construction plans and specifications for the project.
This is a Certificate of Obligation Bond Project and funding is
available from the 1998 Contractural Obligation Issue Construction
Projects.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Acetylene Oxygen Company, Alice,
Texas, in the estimated amount of $20,880.00, for the purchase of
trichlor tablets needed for the chlorination process for all the
City's swimming pools. The bid pricing is approximately 18% less that
the previous contract pricing.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Award of annual contract to the LOW BIDDER, S.L.C. Hydro-Metric,
Inc., Waterford, MI., in the estimated amount of $12,650.00, for
rebuilding water meters for the Utilities Department. The contract
pricing is approximately 40% less than the previous contract. Meter
repairs are requested on an as need basis.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Laredo Discount Metal Building
Components, Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $35,396.68, for furnishing
prefabricated wrought iron fence sections for the City Cemetery. The
contract vendor will deliver ten foot fence sections to the City for
installation by City crews and contract labor. Approximately 970
linear feet of fence will be required to match the existing wrought
iron fence installed by Mercy Regional Center. A total of five bids
were received for the purchase of this fence. Funding is available in
the Capital Improvement Fund Cemetery Improvements.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Award of contract to the following LOW BIDDERS, for the purchase of
vehicles authorized in the FY98 capital equipment budgets:
Sames Motor Co., Laredo, Texas:
8 - 1/2 ton extended cab trucks
(dedicated CNG) $173,200.00
4 - midsize sedans (conventional
due to limited range) 72,780.00
$229,980.00
Philpott Motors, Port Neches, Texas:
9 - 1/2 ton trucks (bi-fuel) $169,776.00
2 - Cargo Van (dedicated CNG) 43,396.00
$213,172.00
Powell Watson Motors, Laredo, Texas:
3 - 3/4 ton trucks (dedicated CNG) $ 57,924.00
Brown Chevrolet, Devine, Texas:
1 - 4 wheel drive utility vehicle
(conventional engine for Fire
Department use) $ 24,521.06
$525,597.06
Delivery is expected within ninety days. $453,000.00 was allotted for
this purchase in the February 2, 1998, Bond Sale. The difference of
$72,597.06, will come from surplus funds in previous CO issues.
(Please refer to Resolution No. 98-R-035)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Award of a construction contract to the LOWEST BIDDER, Dominguez
Development, Laredo, Texas, in the amount of amount of $83,487.00, for
the Laredo Independent School District (LISD) Ochoa-Sanchez Park
located at Locust Street and Monterrey Avenue. This is a City of
Laredo/LISD Project with funding available from the Community
Development CDBG Ochoa Elementary Park.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Award of an engineering contract to G.G. Salinas Engineering Company,
Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $106,384.32, to provide
surveys, design and preparation of plans and specifications for Paving
Project 61 (36 Blocks) City of Laredo Capital Improvements Projects
for FY 97-98. Funding is available in Community Development CDBG
Paving Project 61 and Capital Improvement Fund Paving Project 61.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Award of an professional services contract to Raba-Kistner
Consultants, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed
$41,928.00, to provide Laboratory, Sampling and Testing Services of
materials for quality control for the Father Charles McNaboe
Recreational Complex. Funding is available in the Capital Improvement
Fund Father Charles McNaboe Park.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Award of an professional consulting services for an amount not to
exceed $27,000.00, to Sepulveda Associates, Inc., Laredo, Texas, to
develop, design and prepare engineering plans and specifications for
implementing the Storm Water Management and Ecology Demonstration park
at Laredo Community College Campus on fast tract basis. Funding is
available in NPDES Funds Purchase Professional Services - Ecology
Grant project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Approval of amendment no. 1, an increase of $29,648.00, to the
engineering contract for the Toll System Upgrade and Electronic Toll
Collection Implementation to include conceptual plan, design,
construction implementation, system testing phases with B.W. Zimmerman
and Associates, Harrisburg, PA, to add the design and construction
management of the toll system at the proposed Fourth International
Bridge and to increase the contract time by fourteen (14) months to
test prototype of the proposed system, to implement final design,
installation phase, and oversee final checkout of all the equipment,
and includes two months for the proposed Fourth International Bridge.
The original contract amount was $105,517.00. This amendment brings
the total contract amount to $135,165.00. Funding is available in the
Bridge System Toll Plaza Improvements.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Approval of amendment no. 1, an increase of $60,000.00, to the
engineering contract with Sherfey Engineering Company, L.C.C., Laredo,
Texas, for additional engineering services to design and prepare plans
and specifications to include analysis and sizing of belt filter press
and related appurtenances and building to house unit for the North
Laredo Wastewater Treatment Plant Odor Control Project. Original
architectural engineering amount of $12,000.00, is amended to
$72,000.00. Funding is available in the Sewer System Oxygen/Hydrogen
Sulfide Control.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Approval of amendment no. 1, an increase of $94,000.00, for additional
engineering surveying services to the engineering contract with G.G.
Salinas Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas, for the Reconstruction of
Santa Maria Avenue between Markley Lane and Del Mar Blvd. The
additional engineering services are due to project changes required by
the City. The Santa Maria Avenue Reconstruction Project was intended
to be designed and constructed in conjunction with the Santa Maria
Avenue Drainage Project, however, due to funding issues, the project
is now being done in two phases; Also additional surveying of twenty
(20) individual parcels of land for right-of-way acquisition and/or to
identify encroachments. The original contract amount was $189,500.00.
This amendment brings the total contract amount to $283,500.00.
Funding is available in the 1998 Contractural Obligation Issue.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Approval of amendment no. 3, an increase of $13,640.00 for additional
Resident Project Representative (inspection services) to the
engineering contract with Mejia Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas for
the Manadas Creek 24 Inch Wastewater Interceptor as part of the North
Laredo/Webb County Infrastructure Improvements Project (McPherson Road
Extension) Economic Development Administration (EDA) Project No. 08-
01-02878. The additional contract time is due mainly to delays
associated with additional Federal and State Requirements on
Environmental Assessment and an antiquity assessment required by the
Environmental Protection Agency and the Texas Historical Commission,
respectively, and to contract time added to the construction contract.
Amended architectural engineering contract amount is $536,273.42.
Funding is available in the Sewer System Manadas Creek Interceptor.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the
Texas Department of Health for continuation of the La Familia Health
Care Program of the City of Laredo Health Department.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Acceptance of the Sidewalks Project at B.P. Newman Elementary School
and approval of final payment in the amount of $18,898.32, to Pete
Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Total contract amount is
$80,850.00. Funding is available in the Capital Improvement Fund
Newman Elementary Sidewalks.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
38. Presentation with possible City Council action regarding the proposed
one-quarter cent (1/4 cent) Section 4B Sales and Use Tax by the City's
Economic Development Advisory Council.
Elmo Lopez, Economic Advisory Boardmember, stated that the Business
Council, The Laredo Business Council, Laredo Development Foundation,
Chamber of Commerce and other business entities have worked closely
with the Economic Development Council of the City to build consensus
on the future economic development needs of Laredo. One thing is
clear and unanimous, Laredo needs additional tools in order to attract
the high paying steady jobs that allow a community to grow. With high
unemployment in Laredo our focus needs to be not just to be on any
jobs, but on the types of jobs that come as a result of attracting
companies and business interests in a long term relationship for
Laredo. At this time the only legal way to provide the types of
incentives we need to attract the businesses that will bring jobs to
Laredo is through the creation of an Economic Development Corporation.
Laredo has lost business opportunities to other cities in Texas
because of our inability to compete. The creation of the Economic
Corporation will provide us the level plain field we have long needed,
therefore they support the proposed 1/4% increase in sales tax to fund
the EDC and to provide other needed projects in Laredo. Currently
council is considering a May Election on this initiative to coincide
with the municipal elections and at
this time they believe that May election is too soon to gather the
public input that is critical to a project of this nature. He added
that three times the City of McAllen proposed an Economic Development
package similar to what is they are proposing, three times they failed
to provide accountability by refusing to tell voters how they planned
to spend the money, for how long the tax would be collected and
whether the money was being spent wisely, three times the voters
rejected the proposal. In Lubbock the same thing happened, McAllen
learned its lesson, last year they prioritized projects and guarantee
voters the opportunity to help re-prioritized projects every few
years. Voters have a right to know how their money will be spent, and
for what projects, through hearings and forums the public will have an
ample opportunity to provide input on the projects on which they
start. He encouraged council to amend the date of this proposal from
a May election to an August election and to allow amendment to the
ballot as far as the language is concerned. They need the extra time
to build consensus city wide because they cannot move forward until
they move together.
39. Report advising City Council that unidentified utilities deposits in
the amount of $98,384.22, for the Waterworks System would be
transferred to a miscellaneous revenue account. The audit firm of Baum
& Mejia CPAs, in their Letter to Management, recommends that such
deposits be applied or refunded.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, gave an overview of the report to the
Council. He said these are old, antiquated, deposits that have been
in the waterworks system for many years and they have not identified
any person or companies that it belongs to and therefore the audit
firm recommends that they acknowledge those as revenues.
Motion to proceed with the recommendations of the audit firm.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni was not present.
40. Discussion and possible action regarding the acquisition of three
Utility Easements from Ms. Mary F. Gomez and Mr. Rafael Gomez. Said
easements being described as a thirty-foot-wide Utility Easement
consisting of Part 1 (0.19 of an acre of land), more or less, Part 2
(0.02 of an acre of land), more or less; and a thirty-foot-wide
Utility Easement consisting of 1.7218 acres of land, more or less,
respectively, in Webb County, Texas; with possible Executive Session
for deliberations regarding real property as authorized by V.T.C.A.
Government Code Section 551.072 and return to Open Session for
possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session for deliberations regarding real
property as authorized by V.T.C.A. Government Code Section 551.072 and
return to Open Session for possible action.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Protem announced that no formal action
was taken.
Motion to direct staff to proceed to negotiate with Ms. Mary F. Gomez
for the acquisition of three Utility Easements, in exchange for street
parcels, payment of just compensation, or through eminent domain
proceedings, if necessary.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni was not present.
41. Discussion and possible action regarding the acceptance of the
donation of Blocks 1717, 1718, 1778, 1873, 2159, 2160 and 1630,
Eastern Division, from the Laredo Noon Optimist Club, Inc., from which
a Utility Easement needs to be acquired out of Blocks 1778, 1873, and
2159, Eastern Division. Said easement being described as a thirty-
foot-wide Utility Easement consisting of Block 1778, part 1 (0.19 of
an acre of land), more less, Block 1873, Part 2 (0.08 of an acre of
land), more or less, and Block 2159, Part 3 (0.18 of an acre of land),
more or less, and Block 2159, Part 3 (0.18 of an acre o land), more or
less, and being situated within the area comprising the Dryden
Memorial Park grounds, Eastern Division, Webb County, Texas; with
possible Executive Session for deliberations regarding real property
as authorized by V.T.C.A. Government Code Section 551.072, and return
to Open Session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session for deliberations regarding real
property as authorized by V.T.C.A. Government Code Section 551.072.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Protem announced that no formal action
was taken.
Motion to direct staff to proceed to accept Blocks Nos. 1630, 1717,
1718, 1778, 1873, 2159, and 2160, Eastern Division, from the Laredo
Noon Optimist Club, Inc., in-lieu-of delinquent property taxes for
Lots 1-6, Block 1630, Eastern Division, and to pay said taxes out of
the City Utilities Department funds.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni was not present.
42. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code
Section 551.071(1)(a) to discuss contemplated litigation
regarding Fleet Maintenance Investigation, and return to open session
for possible action thereon.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code
Section 551.071(1)(a) to discuss contemplated litigation regarding
Fleet Maintenance Investigation
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Protem announced that no formal action
was taken in Executive Session.
43. Discussion regarding a request to amend the terms of a parking lot
lease located on River Vega Land, dated August 7, 1979 between the
City of Laredo and Lar-Hill, Inc., by extending the primary term of
said lease which terminates on August 6, 2007, by thirty (30) years
together with an adjustment of rent to increase the fair market rental
value to current rates plus annual consumer price index increases and
discussion regarding possible assignment of this parking lot lease as
amended, to Kabir Investments, Inc., as the prospective purchaser of
the Holiday Inn on the Rio Property, together with possible Executive
Session for deliberation regarding real property, as authorized and
pursuant to Section 551.072, of the Texas Government Code and return
to open session, for possible action thereon.
Motion to go into Executive Session for deliberation regarding real
property, as authorized and pursuant to Section 551.072, of the Texas
Government Code.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session Mayor Protem announced that no formal action
was taken.
Motion to instruct the City Manager to have staff negotiate and
finalize the terms of an amended lease agreement with up to 30 year
extension term and possible assignment, and have the City Manager
return with the terms and conditions of the negotiated lease agreement
for review and approval by this council, upon the completion of said
negotiations.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni was not present.
X. COMMUNICATIONS
a. Danita Benavides spoke before the council on the creation of a Tree
Board and that this board needs to work together with CPL to stop
the damaging of the trees.
Mr. Manuel Jordan with the Texas Forest Service spoke of the idea
of the Tree Board and looking at the potential of the city becoming
Tree City U.S.A. and the requirements.
Cm. Alvarado informed Mrs. Benavides to prepare a list of names
that are interested in serving on the Board and submit them to the
City Secretary.
Miss Linda Cantu from CPL stated that they are committed
as role partners with the City of Laredo to get the Tree
City USA going and are willing to help facilitate the filing forms
and participating on the board itself.
b. Dr. Michael Landeck asked that council clarify the specific purpose
and time and whether it's one (1) year of more and if it is a
single project or multiple projects on the sales tax increase
proposal. He thanked the Council for postponing the election.
c. Jesus Longoria spoke before the Council and informed them
of present railroad problems. He passed a copy of a ticket issued
by a Texas Railroad Police to Jose Luis Castillo on a violation of
interference with railroad property and for jumping on a moving
trained. He said it when the trains stops and it stops for a long
time, and residents of the area are forced to do creative things
either coming under the railroad car or over the railroad car, in
this case he came over the railroad car. He was cited to appear
before the JP Court and issued a ticket, he was unable to attend
the court session and sent a letter from the judge's office. If he
needs to plea guilty to avoid a long trial he is to pay $109.75 and
of course the court costs. He has to pay $232.00 or in the event
he decides to make a personal appearance, the court will not be
bound by the stated amount which means he can even end up in jail.
He hopes that for the next agenda, this item be put and discussed.
He added that the man that issued the ticket issued it under a
public law and under certain legal right because he was to take it
to Judge Valdez. He wants that this item be brought on the next
agenda so that it can be fully discussed with the railroad people.
d. Dr. Jose G. Garcia, President of the Laredo Day Break Rotary Club,
explained they have approach each member of the organization of
Americans States which are 34 countries, about the fact that Laredo
has been already been designated as "The Gateway of Las Americas"
and Mr. Duarte member of the Rotary Club came up with an idea of
proposing that each of the councilmembers of the organization of
American States donate a crest or coat-of-arms for their particular
country so that one of the avenues where most of the traffic
between ourselves and the sister republics to the south is
maintained and proposing that the avenue could be named as "Avenida
de las Americas" where our citizens and other citizens of other
countries that travel through our gateway are reminded of all the
countries that are part of this hemisphere.
In addition, they asked from each of the member countries, to
donate to our city a copy of a book of geography of their own
country, a book on the history of their country, and three
representative books by either poets, philosophers or different
literary artists for their country so that a potential goal of
developing a hall of the Americans at the new library. The idea is
to promote greater understanding of the philosophy, the ideas and
goals of all of our sister republics which will give the city an
additional presence in the international forum.
XI. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
44. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on the ongoing construction on Hwy 59 (Saunders) with
possible action.
(Co-sponsored by Councilman Eliseo Valdez).
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated that the contract was
awarded to Price on the last council meeting and has taken effect,
they have been given the order to proceed, they have started to
mobilize on Thursday transporting materials back and forth. He added
that they have never left the site except for rain, they have
continued to install the 18" line as they started, at this point they
are east of Valencia Street. As soon as the contractor gets in place
and begins working they will continue working with them installing the
services on that line to provide the sewer services.
Regarding the recent rains, on Friday they spent much of the day
putting caliche on top of trench to facilitate the access to the
people on the areas where they were working.
The 18" line construction will continue for next month under Price
Construction, then they will continue approximately 2,500 feet of 8"
line also going east. They will be with them to help them install the
services as they advance which is the fastest way that they can
advance. The one thing that they ask of Price is that no business
will be blocked for more than one day total at a time. They will do
everything possible to give them access.
On the water side, they are also working all along Highway 59,
lowering the services to where the storm sewer lines are going to be.
Mr. Juan Villarreal, TxDOT Engineer, stated that on Highway 59 the
contractor has nailed asphalt from Ejido to McPherson. They have
layed pipe as far as storm sewer from Ejido to Texas Avenue and will
begin working at Bartlett which is the
second system for the project. They have done excavation from Ejido
to Texas, the project is approximately 10% complete, 7% of the time
has elapse, so they are ahead of schedule by 3%.
Cm. Bruni stated he has a concern with the recent rains, the using of
flexible base versus black base, many people could not get to work or
their customers couldn't get to there because the contractor had gone
in there and put a layer of caliche flexible base slashed up and cars
were getting stuck in the flexible base. He asked if there is any way
they can use black base material to expedite the project and to
facilitate the egress/ingress to this businesses? He added that we
need a contingency plan by working all future projects with the City,
County, and TxDOT so these problems will not occur again and he would
like to see 24 hour construction days.
Mr. Villarreal stated what was slashed up was the same material that
was escavated and a lot was clay, as of right
now they are going to use caliche base plus asphalt with the motion on
it which should make it better if there is another rain.
Cm. Bruni questioned if the time frame can be lowered or reduced in
the amount of working days.
Mr. Delgado stated they can make them work at night, but the cost will
increase and instead of doing a project that might
take two years they might have to escalate that project to six years.
He explained that if they force the contractor to work 24 hours a day
the cost will increase tremendously. Instead of doing six miles they
would only do two miles. One of their concerns is safety, one of the
disadvantages of not allowing them work at night is because it is so
narrow, the
artificial light would be more of a hindrance to the travel public,
the noise level would be bad and they would have to try and explain
why they don't let them go to sleep.
Mr. Villarreal stated they did say they will be looking at working at
night once they are done with the storm sewer and the underground
work.
Hector Delgado, Appraisal District Manager, reported that they are
reviewing economic circumstances on the businesses on Saunders Avenue
and on Webb County. The board is very concerned with regards to what
is going on and they asked for a report from the Appraisal District as
to what their intents were for that situation. They are very
concerned that the construction has had an impact on these
individuals, because as you know when an growth, expansion and an
improvement takes place those circumstances also bring sorrow and
hardship for individuals. The Appraisal District's job is to make
sure that we are aware of those circumstances and if there is an
economic affect on the property that they try and reflect that
accordingly. The Appraisal District job is to appraise property, to
provided benefits to the property owners and to assist property owners
whenever possible, and possibly they can do those three things. He
stated that all these situations apply to all property owners within
Webb County. What they will be doing on the Saunders construction and
throughout Webb County is seeking legal opinions so they can determine
what the framework and what the boundaries are for the Appraisal
District as they work towards finding solutions and assistance for
these property owners. They are conducting an economic survey from
other Appraisal Districts of the State of Texas to see how they
address these particular issues. They are also trying to complete an
economic survey which will be trying to gather information in regards
to the market value of properties along the construction
thoroughfares, sales losses, and any other pertinent information so
they can try and establish the effects of the ongoing construction.
They will also be gathering information from the City Engineer, TxDot
and they will be looking at information brought to their attention in
regards to possibly additional right-of-way that have been taken.
They are also conducting site inspections on Saunders and other major
thoroughfares under construction to look at those situations so they
can make a note of how its affecting those properties. They will be
correlating all the data and trying to come up with a solution. They
believe the timeframe is approximately 45 days, they are looking at
the 1998 appraisal year, they effects of what they are doing won't be
felt until the end of this year, but they are moving at this time to
review that along with all the other projects. He reminded property
owners that when they send out the survey, that they will play a very
important part in their ability to gather information, because they
will be the ones answering the questions and providing the type of
economic information that they give to council, in trying to express
their concerns and their hardships and everything else that has an
effect on their property. He reminded property owners that they do
have rights. They have a right to visit with their staff, they have a
right to a fair, equal, and impartial appraisal. They have a right to
meet with the Appraisal District Review Board if they have any
questions with regards to those processes. They are trying to gather
first quarter losses, and will try and reflect all year round effects.
Cm. Valdez asked staff to look into the Economic Development
in Austin to see if there are any type of economic re-adjustment
programs, or low and/or no interest loans to help some of these
businesses survive.
Jorge Cedillo, from Commerce Bank, stated that they had conducted a
preliminary survey on some of the businesses on Saunders, they took
the initiate to have their staff call some of the businesses along
Saunders and they were able to make contact with 57 businesses. He
shared information acquired from that survey, they found out that out
of the 57 businesses they talked to 47 or 82% of these businesses have
been affected by the construction on Saunders. Out of those 47
businesses the they interviewed and made contact with, they found out
that 7 of those business which is 16% had at least a 10% drop income
or revenue, approximately 13 of those businesses which equals 23% had
a 20% in their revenues, and about 61% or 35 of those businesses had a
50% drop in their revenues. They have seen the impact that they are
having, the project is just getting underway, some of the people that
have been impacted are on the north side of the construction so they
still have to see the other side. He added that Commerce Bank has
also had some impact, most of the customers are complaining about the
situation, especially the congestion and the possibility of a traffic
accident. They have noticed a 7% difference in the number of activity
or number of customers using the motor bank.
He discussed some of the ideas discussed in the survey such as:
1) Extending and keeping the green lights longer on the east/west
traffic lanes.
2) Having more traffic control by the Police Department having police
officers standing on those main intersections.
3) They would like to see the increase of man hours and manpower for
the project, by adding more workers or extending their daily
schedules possibly working Saturdays, Sundays and nights.
4) City and County need to offer some sort of relief in the Ad Valorem
taxes.
5) They need to have the utility companies provide a level payment
plan during the construction.
6) Maybe the media can contribute by issuing daily traffic report
announcements throughout the day. They need to have the medias be
more sensitive to the merchants, that instead of continuing
negative reports maybe they can provide special discount rates for
the merchants in Saunders wanting to advertise or provide
advertising promotional packages with special incentives for the
people on Saunders. Many want to advertise but it is an uphill
battle trying to promote their businesses with all the bad
publicity going on.
7) Businesses along Saunders need to form a united group or a
coalition and initiate a promotional program to attract shoppers to
their stores.
9) Seek help from existing civic groups like the Chamber of Commerce
and develop a marketing plan for the area maybe providing discount
coupons or opening on Sundays as incentives.
10) Setup a "Hotline" with TxDot and with the City for emergencies.
One of the most common suggestions was "Why can't the project be done
in blocks instead of two or three mile strips?"
He believes that a contingency plan needs to be established.
There needs to be more planning and that the private sector be
included in the planning, there needs to be more communication with
the private sector and government to get this projects underway with
less problematic situations. He sees the need for more economic
relief in the months to come for some of these businesses. He asked
that the City and the County join forces in creating a short term/long
term loan revolving loan program or a guarantee program of some sort
for some of the business that need help. As far as the bank is
concern, he extended an open welcomed hand to all the businesses to
use all their facilities for any future meetings that the business
owners may need in the future.
Mr. Jesus Sandoval spoke in reference to elevations and right-of-ways
issues and wanted explanation on these issues from TxDot Engineers.
Mr. Hector Alvarado appeared before council wanted to know who is in
charge and responsible when something is wrong, who is profiting from
it and at whose expense is all this
progress being done? He quoted that "fast" is not good enough for
merchants on Saunders and asked that they are kept in mind when
something is being done, because they are the ones suffering the
consequences.
2. Status report on the lack of waste water infrastructure on the north
side of Highway 59 between Ejido Street and the entrance of Casa
Blanca State Park.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, said that the present project will
not touch that section, that will probably be in a year or two when
they go on the other side of Ejido, however the infrastructure needed
can be installed on the outside of the pavement, there is sufficient
room. They have been contacted by some business owners who say that
with failing septic systems they have two choices, to try to put some
type of infrastructure and the other is to repair the septic system
and make it functional again.
Looking into this issue and in talking to Mr. Pena they costed out the
project to serve five properties along 1,500 feet of unserved frontage
would be approximately $47,000. If they can go the right of a sewer
assessment of some type of fund raising mechanism they could a portion
the cost on other property owners. One of the property owners had
mentioned through correspondence that he would be willing to pay up to
$12,900. He added he has not be able to correlate the cost.
He said if they can raise some of the money from them earlier it will
be easier for them to do it. They will explore the alternative of
sewer assessment and notify them if they can fund this project. It
would require that the city fronts the money to do the job.
Cm. Bruni suggested that we move away from the septic tanks because
they are failing and the wastewater is going underneath 59 and down to
the south part.
Mr. Roman stated that in this case when the septic tanks were
installed there was nothing else, there were no alternatives, the
level of activity was very low, and he agrees that by going to the
sewer assessment that it opens up the
possibility of us doing the work and then recovering the money later
on. He suggested that if the business owners are willing to pay or if
they can get them to raise a larger amount of money maybe instead of
having to pay $47,000 exposure they can reduce it to $15,0000-$20,000.
Cm. Bruni suggested that Mr. Roman explore that possibility, he wants
a cost estimate and that a report on the issue be brought on the next
council meeting. He added that some of these residents are being
charge for wastewater services and they are paying yet they don't
receive no wastewater services. He wants staff to talk to the
property owners and come back with a recommendation on how to help
these people because septic tanks are failing and if they do a water
test on the opposite side of the highway, water it is contaminated.
He said he does not want money invested in fixing the septic tanks, he
wants them removed.
3. Status report on the ongoing infrastructure improvements on the 2800,
2900, and 3000 blocks of Lane with possible action.
Mr. Roman reported that they had finished the replacement of the line
and are ready to go, the 2800 and the 2900 block had the most broken
pipes replaced. They are not going to touch the 3000 block, but Mr.
Rivera informed him that there has been a pre-construction meeting for
the resurrecting of the streets which means they might be mobilizing
and working within 20 days.
Cm. Bruni stated his only concern is whether they are going to
resurface the street because they are in deplorable condition right
now.
Mr. Roman answered that they will be resurfaced.
4. Status report on the ongoing activities that are being conducted by
different departments related at Heritage Park.
Mr. Roman reported on the water pressure problems. He said they are
buying materials to re-configure the service area, and hopefully
within 30-60 days they can have a continuous pressure from a different
point.
Luis Landin, Traffic Director, reported that they have already
installed the signs that were needed and they are planning to write a
proposal for three (3) additional security lights to illuminate the
area and with that they will have complied with the needs of that
area. They will be installing the crime watch signs as soon as the
Police Department identifies the sites where they are needed.
Cindy Collazo, CD Director, reported that regarding the junk vehicles,
they were eight identified, five have been removed and staff is
working on the other three, to get them operational. Regarding the
two violations on the basketball court, those have been removed. In
reference to the notices for the vacant lots, there were two and those
have been complied with. In reference to the skirting, that is a
zoning issue but they will follow through with that.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated that the problems that Cm. Bruni
observed have been taken care of.
Police Chief Dovalina reported that they will continue their policing
services, the POPS detail out there, they have initiated the
neighborhood watch program in the area, and will be identifying the
areas for the Traffic Department to install the crime watch signs.
B. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso "Poncho" Casso, Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the creation of a Tree Board
with possible appointees.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the EMS Division of the Fire
Department.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Consideration and possible action directing staff to begin preliminary
analysis on the widening of McPherson Road between Calton Road and
Saunders Avenue with possible inclusion into the 1999-2003 Capital
Improvement Program.
(Co-sponsored by Cm. Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to begin a preliminary analysis and directing staff to
incorporate it into the CIP, with the inclusion into the 1999-2003
Capital Improvement Program.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Requests by Councilmember Joe A. Guerra
1. Status report concerning the progress of the infrastructure work being
done along Gallagher Street in the Calton Gardens area.
Cm. Guerra read a letter from Paragon Builders and signed by Juan
Martinez addressed to Abrahan Rodriguez which read as follows:
"This letter is in reference to the construction of the Gallagher
Gardens Project. Due to the lack of utilities like sewer, water, and
storm sewer drainage we have lost valuable construction time. Every
time it rains we don't only loose the day's that rain, but also the
days it takes job site to dry, since drainage of project was
engineered to drain to inlets to be installed, water has no place to
go. Recent rains like in February, it rained one we lost three days.
March it rained 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th and expect to loose another
three days of work until it dries. That is if it doesn't continue
raining. Also the lack of not having utilities has caused us the
inconvenience and the delay of time having to get water from the
neighbors. We at this time are behind schedule installing necessary
utilities in project this time cannot be made up. Also the increase
of cost on labor and materials for the utilities installation, as you
well know we already have had an increase of costs due to the delay on
commencing project. I would suggest we have a meeting so we can get
into an agreement on this problems. There is still a lot of work
needed to complete project. We have had a lot of problems trying to
test our sewer and water lines without having the necessary utilities
from the City."
Fernando Roman reported that had originally been scheduled for
February 15th to begin, they were delay a month because they haven't
finish on other projects that they expected to finish. They are
mobilizing the wastewater crew and will be ready to do it on
Wednesday. They have one thing to do and that is to ask for the
alignment of the water line. Engineering staff informed them that as
soon as they have the right-of-way issue settled they can proceed to
install the fire hydrants, but they are proceeding to mobilizing the
material, string it on the side and be ready. The right-of-way is a
paper issue and they will not install the fire
hydrants until the issue is settled.
Cindy Collazo stated that regarding the right-of-way, they have been
working diligently with the attorney of one of the property owners.
She spoke to the attorney prior to the meeting, he indicated there is
an issue of concern that he has regarding the structure owned by the
property owner, he did not like the terminology that we had proposed.
He insists on having it re-worded. She said they will work with our
attorneys, they will go to his office as soon as he arrives, he
assures her that if the language is changed and if that is fine with
our attorneys then he would have his
client to sign that document tomorrow.
Regarding the other property owner, there is a resolution item
tonight, they encourage council to approve it, and if council approves
it she thinks the gentlemen will sign it tomorrow also. She hopes to
wrap up this issue this week.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that staff had met with the
Housing Authority over the project on several occasions, they
recognized that the biggest hurdle is the right-of-way concern which
Mrs. Collazo referred to. Hopefully it will be resolved by tomorrow,
but if it not resolved then there is a council meeting on the 23rd
where other action may be required in order to get the project on
target because the El Metro Housing Project is under construction and
so we need to get the utilities in by the time that they are ready to
open the facilities.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the request by the EMS
Division of the Laredo Fire Department to split the EMS District in
two in order to have three additional EMS supervisors. This action
would guarantee the presence of one supervisor per division at all
times.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
E. Requests by Councilmember Consuelo Montalvo
1. Appointment of Jose Arrellano to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board.
Motion to appoint Jose Arrellano to the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Board.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
45. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 annual budget
by increasing estimated revenues and appropriations in the General
Fund by $3,500.00 to fund the production of a Laredo Area Cemetery
Preservation Plan; and authorizing the City Manager to implement said
budget, providing for publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 annual budget by increasing
estimated revenues and appropriations in the General Fund by $3,500.00
to fund the production of a Laredo Area Cemetery Preservation Plan;
and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget, providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
46. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 annual budget
drawing down $500,000.00, from fund balance and $209,048.00, from
salary savings reserve and transferring same to the Bridge Fund to
appropriate said funds for amendment no. 3 on the engineering contract
with Structural Engineering Company (SEA) and authorizing the City
Manager to implement said budget.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 annual budget drawing down
$500,000.00, from fund balance and $209,048.00, from salary savings
reserve and transferring same to the Bridge Fund to appropriate said
funds for amendment no. 3 on the engineering contract with Structural
Engineering Company (SEA) and authorizing the City Manager to
implement said budget.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
46a. MOTION
Approval of amendment no. 3, for an amount not to exceed
$1,379,197.28, to the engineering contract with Structural Engineering
Company (SEA), San Antonio, Texas, for the Laredo Northwest
International Bridge (Fourth Bridge) to provide professional services
required to complete the design of the border station. Also included
are additional architectural/
engineering (A/E) services required to complete the scope of work in
amendment no. 1 as a result of (1) Changes in size of the buildings
and docks and the quantity of paving beyond initial estimates due to
federal requirements. (2) The addition of GSA Temporary Facilities.
(3) The amount of project management due to extensive required
negotiations with Federal and State agencies. The original contract
amount was $70,450.00. This amendment brings the total contract amount
to $2,059,047.28. Funding is available in Bridge System Fourth Bridge
Architectural Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 U.S. Customs
Service Fund budget in the amount of $5,000.00, and authorizing the
City Manager to enter into an agreement with the Department of
Treasury/U.S. Customs Service for the reimbursement of $5,000.00 for
funding the Laredo Border Violence Task Force to assist U.S. Customs
Agents in conducting official Treasury investigations. These monies
will be used to pay overtime wages for Laredo Police Narcotics
officers involved in this Task Force. This will be the first year the
City has entered into this agreement and is at no cost to the City.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 U.S. Customs Service Fund
budget in the amount of $5,000.00, and authorizing the City Manager to
enter into an agreement with the Department of Treasury/U.S. Customs
Service for the reimbursement of $5,000.00 for funding the Laredo
Border Violence Task Force to assist U.S. Customs Agents in conducting
official Treasury investigations. These monies will be used to pay
overtime wages for Laredo Police Narcotics officers involved in this
Task Force. This will be the first year the City has entered
into this agreement and is at no cost to the City; providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
48. Public hearing altering and extending the boundary limits of the City
of Laredo, for the voluntary annexation of additional territory of
400.5859 acres, located in Porciones 12, 13, and 14 as further
described by metes and bounds, specifically the Unitec Industrial Park
Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, adopting a
Service Plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial
zoning.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, for
the voluntary annexation additional territory of 400.5859 acres,
located in Porciones 12, 13, and 14 as further described by metes and
bounds, specifically the Unitec Industrial Park Tract, providing for
the effective date of the ordinance, adopting a Service Plan for the
annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning Director, made the presentation and stated that
there are some provisions that need to be made on the ordinance and
the service plan itself. The agenda reads correctly and the ordinance
needs to read, "altering and extending the boundary limits of the City
of Laredo for the voluntary annexation of additional territory".
On the last two pages of the annexation service plan paragraph 4a and
4b the word "petitioner" needs to be reworded to "developer". On
paragraph 5, it says, "the street lighting is required of all new
development and will be provided" that needs to be changed to read "by
the developer".
Motion to amend to incorporate all the new changes as presented by Mr.
Selman.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
49. Public hearing approving an amendment to the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and budget revision in the amount of $4,233.00,
for the HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)
Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period
beginning February 1, 1998, through January 31, 1999.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Approving an amendment to the contract with the Texas Department of
Health and budget revision in the amount of $4,233.00, for the
HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Project
of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
February 1, 1998, through January 31, 1999.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
50. Public hearing authorizing the City Manager to amend the 1997-98
Airport Fund Budget to appropriate $1,491,897.00, being the proceeds
from the sale of Airport non-aeronautical use land and to increase by
$245,000.00, the new airport passenger terminal construction line item
to provide funding for a food sanitizer, restaurant and to finish out
airline office space and ticket counters and to provide contingency
funding.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager to amend the 1997-98 Airport Fund Budget
to appropriate #$1,491,897.00, being the proceeds from the sale of
Airport non-aeronautical use land and to increase by $245,000.00, the
new airport passenger terminal construction line item to provide
funding for a food sanitizer, restaurant and to finish out airline
office space and ticket counters and to provide contingency funding;
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
XIV. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Mass Transit
Board.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Authorization to solicit bids for the purchase of seven replacement
para-transit vans. These vans have a capacity of eight passengers and
will be used by the El Lift Program. A tentative bid award date is
scheduled for April 20, 1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Mass Transit Board and convene as City
Council.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Time: 8:55 p.m.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 36
ARE TRUE, COMPLETE, AND CORRECT PROCEEDINGS OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON THE 16TH DAY OF MARCH, 1998. A CERTIFIED COPY IS ON FILE AT THE CITY
SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY
Minutes prepared by: Delia Rodriguez
Minutes approved on: