CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M98-R-22
MAY 18, 1998
MINUTES
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Pro-Tem Jose R. Perez called the
meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Pro-Tem led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE;
Jose R. Perez Mayor Pro-Tem
Louis H. Bruni Councilmember, District II
Alfonso "Poncho" Casso Councilmember, District III
Cecilia May Moreno Councilmember, District IV
Eliseo Valdez Councilmember, District V
Joe A. Guerra Councilmember, District VI
Mario G. Alvarado Councilmember, District VII
Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo Councilmember, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr. City Secretary
Florencio Pena, III City Manager
Jaime L. Flores City Attorney
ABSENCE:
Motion to excuse Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores due to death of her
father. Mayor Pro-Tem Perez requested a moment of silence to
honor Mayor Flores' father, Eloy Garcia.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. MINUTES
2. City Council Meeting, March 23, 1998
City Council Meeting, April 6, 1998
City Council Meeting, April 20, 1998
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 5
Motion to waive the rules and move to Item #16; 98-R-070; E(2);
and C (1).
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso came in at 5:36 p.m.
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
3. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Rental Car A gency
Concession and Lease Agreement with Southwest-Tex Leasing Co.,
Inc., d/b/a Advantage Rent-A-Car fo r the approximate 171
square feet of office and counter space located in car rental
space #4, and for 17 parking spaces located at 5210 Bob
Bullock Loop at the Laredo International Airport passenger
terminal.
a.) term of the agreement is for five (5) years;
b.) initial monthly concession fee is $1,224.00 and shall be
adjusted annually based on changes in passenger
enplanement activity;
c.) monthly rent for the office and counter space will be
$213.75 per month, plus $170.00 per month for parking.
Ordinance introduction: City Council
4. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Rental Car A gency
Concession and Lease Agreement with Coastal Ben d Rent-A-Car,
Inc., for the approximate 133 square fe et of office and
counter space located in car rental space #5, and f or 19
parking spaces located at 5210 Bob Bullock Loop at the Lare do
International Airport passenger terminal.
a.) term of the agreement is for five (5) years;
b.) initial monthly concession fee is $1,224.00 and shall be
adjusted annually based on changes in passenger
enplanement activity;
c.) monthly rent for the office and counter space will be
$166.25 per month, plus $190.00 per month for parking.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Rental Car Agen cy
Concession and Lease Agreement with Sames Motor Co., Inc.,
d/b/a Budget Rent-A-Car of Laredo for the approximate 171
square feet of office and counter space located in car rental
space #2, and for 19 parking spaces located at 5210 Bob
Bul lock Loop at the Laredo International Airport passenger
terminal.
a.) term of the agreement is for five (5) years;
b.) initial monthly concession fee is $1,224.00 and shall be
adjusted annually based on changes in passenger
enplanement activity;
c.) monthly rent for the office and counter space will be
$213.75 per month, plus $190.00 per month for parking.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Rental Car Agency
Concession and Lease Agreement with Gateway Rent-A-Car d/b/a
Hertz Rent-A-Car for the approximate 17 1 square feet of
office and counter space located in car rental space #1, and
for 19 parking spaces located at 5210 Bob Bullock Loop at the
Laredo International Airport.
a.) term of the agreement is for five (5) years;
b.) initial monthly concession fee is $1,224.00, and sha ll
be adjusted annually based on changes in passenger
enplanement activity;
c.) monthly rent for the office and counter space will be
$213.75 per month, plus $190.00 per month for parking.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
7. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Rental Car Agency
Concession and Lease Agreement with Laredo Car Rental, Inc.,
d/b/a National Car Rental for the approximate 165 square feet
of office and counter space located in car rental space #3,
and for 19 parking spaces located at 5210 Bob B ullock Loop at
the Laredo International Airport.
a.) term of the agreement is for five (5) years;
b.) initial monthly concession fee is $1,224.00, and shall be
adjusted annually based on changes in passenger
enplanement activity;
c.) monthly rent for the office and counter space will be
$206.25 per month, plus $190.00 per month for parking.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
8. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Border
Maintenance Service, Inc., for approx imately 2,304 square
feet constituting Building #1421 located at 181 7 Pappas at
the Laredo International Airport.
a.) term of the agreement is for one (1) year commencing
July 1, 1998 and ending June 30, 1999;
b.) monthly rent shall be $650.00; previous monthly rent was
$550.00.
Lease premises are used for office space and a maintenance
service workshop.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
9. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Roberto
Villasenor for approximately 960 square feet constituting
Building #1319 located at 4011 North Jarvis Avenue, for the
purpose of an airline cateri ng service.
a.) term of the lease is for two (2) years commencing on
December 1, 1997 and ending November 30, 1999,
b.) monthly rent shall be $288.00 and will be adjusted
annually during the primary and extension terms of this
lease according to changes in the Consumer Price Index.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey fee sim ple title to W.E.
Haynes, VI, for the sale of the "Surface Only" at its fair
market value of certain City propert y described as a tract of
land consisting of 15,432.35 square feet (55.56' x 277.76)
more or less out of and part of that former section of the
3000 block of Ross Street between India and Canada Avenues and
being bounded on the North by Block 1877, E.D. an d on the
South by Block 1878, E.D. situated i n the Eastern Division,
City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas and hereby approving the
submitted improvement plan in compliance with Section 10 of
the Str eet Closing/Sales Policy Handbook as approved per
Resolution No. 97-R-140; and providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinance #98-0-123;
#98-0-124; #98-0-125; and #98-0-126.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 98-O-123 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with
Webb County (for use by t he Laredo/Webb County
Community Action Agency) for approximately 380
square feet of office space const ituting Suite
No. 9 of Building No. S-1 located at 1718 E. Calton
Road.
a.) lease term is for one (1) year commencing March
1, 1998 and ending February 28, 1999, and may
be extended for one (1) term of one (1) year
ending February 29, 2000;
b.) monthly rent shall be $422.07;
c.) previous monthly rent was $401.97.
(City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 98-O-124 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease
renewal with the State of Texas General Services
Commission on behalf of the University of Texas
Health Science Center at San Antonio for 317 square
feet of office space at the City of Laredo Health
Complex located at 2600 Cedar Street.
a.) term of the lease renewal will be from
September 1, 1998 through August 31, 1999;
b.) lessee shall pay a sum in the amount of $345.08
rental fee per month which includes the cost of
utilities and janitorial services.
(City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 98-O-125 Approving an amendment to the contract with the
Texas Department of Health and Budget Revision to
reflect the additional amount of $320,759 in direct
assistance for the Immunization Action Plan Project
of the City of Laredo Health Department for the
period beginning January 1, 1998 through December
31, 1998. (City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 98-O-126 Authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo, Texas
Combination Tax and Airport Revenue Certificates of
Obligation, Series 1998, in the principal amount of
$1,430,000.00 for the purpose of paying all or a
portion of the City's Contractual Obligations for
the purpose of acquisition of land at the municipal
airport in connection with the settlement of a
lawsuit in reference to noise abatement at the
City's airport and the payment of legal and fiscal
fees in connection with this project, and other
matters relating thereto. (City Council)
Cm. Bruni stated that for the purpose of the people
watching public access he wanted to state for the
record that he had previously requested that this
item be clarified as it appeared to be ambiguous as
it was stated.
Conrado Hein Finance Director advised Cm. Bruni that
public notice was posted as it appeared in the
ordinance; therefore, to have done the changes they
would have to start from the beginning but that Cm.
Bruni's observation had been duly noted.
Noe Hinojosa with Hinojosa & Company stated for the
record that bonds were issued for a period of 20
years and rates were at 5.37% from A. G. Edwards.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. RESOLUTIONS
15. 98-R-045 Amending Resolution No. 97-R-127, which aut horized
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 ame ndment 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 74.03
acres.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Motalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 98-R-070 Authorizing the City Manager of the City of Laredo
to accept a grant application (reimbursement
program) from the Intermodal Surface Transportation
Efficiency Act Statewide Transportation Enhancement
Program to acquire and stabilize the Benavides-
Herrera home at 802 Grant Street and authorizing the
City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Use of the property is to be determined. Repairs
will protect a historical site in Laredo.
Margarita Araiza, Executive Director of the Webb
County Heritage Foundation presented a $20,000
pledge to the City of Laredo for the historic
restoration/rehabilitation of the Benavides-Herrera
home. She further stated that she wanted to thank
Ms. Nina Nixon Mendez and Larry Dovalina for getting
this project off the ground.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 98-R-076 Resolving that the City Manager may execute a
Subordination, nondisturbance and Attornment
Agreement between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and
L.A. Ventures, Inc., as Lessee, and International
Bank of Commerce, as Lender, for the purpose of
securing a temporary and perm anent loan for the
improvements on Lots No. 6 of Block No. 1 at the
Laredo International Airpark Subdivision at the
Laredo International Airport.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 98-R-077 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
professional service contract wit h Dr. Dennis D.
Cantu for services as a medical director/supervisor
of pre-hospital care for the City of Laredo for (5)
years commencing on June 1, 1998, and ending on May
31, 2003 for the sum of $45,000.00 per year. The
City has contracted with Dr. Cantu since 1985.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain:0
19. 98-R-078 Supporting the Metro Affordable Housing Corporation
in their application to the Texas Department of
Housing and Community affairs for low income housing
tax credit for the construction of 128 residential
rental units for low/moderate income residents.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cw. Montalvo
II. MOTIONS
20. Approval of bid specification and authorization to advertise
for bids for the following:
a) automotive tires, six month contract - Fleet Maintenance
b) carpet and tile replacement, painting - Municipal Court
Building
c) fixed asset valuation - Finance Department
d) ambulance (replacement) - Fire Department, EMS
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit bids for the placement
of solid sod and hydroseed the grounds at the new airport
passenger terminal and parking lot.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to
advertise for bids for the Laredo Northwest International
Bridge (Fourth Bridge) with tentative award July 20, 1998.
The project consists of the construction of an international
bridge, 120 feet in width by approximately 976 feet in length
(the U.S. base bid is 391 feet in length) located
approximately 6000 feet west of the intersection of FM3654
(Milo Road) and FM 1472 (Mines Road). Included in a bid
alternate is the international common span between piers 6 and
7, which is 120 feet in width by approximately 98 feet in
length (additive alternate bid deck, prestressed type IV
beams, reinforced concrete abutments and multi-column bents,
approach slab, railings, fence and illumination assemblies).
The structure is designed in accordance with A.A.S.H.T.O.,
1996 Standard Specifications with a Design Live Load of
170,840 pounds. Structural Engineering Associates (SEA) of
San Antonio, Texas, consultant for the project will make a
presentation. Funding is in the Bridge System Fourth Bridge
Advertising.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated that her
department was seeking Council approval on construction of the
plans and specifications for the project. Further stating
that they are requesting that they be subject to review by TX
DOT and FHWA. Also, a revision on the schedule of the EDA
Project, which is presently in the process of being
advertised on June 19, 1998, open bids on July 21, 1998 at
4:00 p.m. and tentative award date, the end of July. Start
construction, late August and completion by August 27, 1999,
with opening of the bridge by November or December of 1999.
David Covarrubias, Project Engineer with Structural
Engineering & Associates made a presentation on the overall
project layout, bidding, and design.
Cindy Collazo stated that they were in the process of
requesting a model to be able to inform the public on the
amount of work that this $70 million project the City of
Laredo and TXDOT will undertake.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Authorizing the City Manager to submit an application to the
Federal Aviation Administration requesting from FAA a "Letter
of Commitment" committing Laredo's future FY 1999, FY 2000 and
FY 2001, Airport Improvement Program, Passenger and Cargo
Entitlement f unds in the estimated amount of $1,724,985.00
for construction and reconstruction of airport pavements. The
proposed "Letter of Commitment" would enable the City to
secure short term financing to expedite the proposed airport
improvements. A revenue anticipation note will be considered
to finance this program. Further council action will be
required.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to
advertise for bids for the Farias Ele mentary School Student
Drop-off/Pick-up Area Improvements Project with tentative
award of June 15, 1998. This is a cost sharing project
between the City of Laredo and Laredo Independent School
District (LISD). Funding is available in the 1998 Certificate
of Obligation Issue Sch ool Drop Off Construction Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cw. Moreno
25. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit proposals from
qualified Civil/Environmental consultants to develop a Storm
Water Management Master Plan for the Zacate Creek Watershed.
The scope of the work includes:
a) Updating the FEMA flood insurance map.
b) Inventory of drainage structures and drainage ways.
c) Developing hydrologic and hydraulic models.
d) Identifying and recommending the location of the regional
detention pond and for the floatable control devices and,
e) Developing and evaluating improvement alternatives.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit proposals from
qualified engineering/surveying consul tants for professional
services for surveying and providing metes and bounds
descriptions and maps for the acquisition of a tract of land
approximately 850 L.F. in length and 120 feet wide for the
extension of the University Boulevard West of the Bob Bullock
Loop to intersect the existing Casa Verde Road, and for the
survey work and mapping required to vacate that portion of
Casa Verde Road North of this intersection northward to the
intersection of Casa Verde Road with the Bob Bullock Loop and
for the design and preparation of plans and specifications for
the road extension. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvement Fund Extension of University Boulevard to Casa
Verde Road.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Approval of selection of consultant and authorization to
negotiate an engineering contract with Fost er Engineering
Company, Laredo, Texas, for the Upper Zacate Creek Drainage.
Project from East of McPherson Ro ad at Los Ebanos east and
northeast to Jacaman Road and Del Mar Blvd. to include
surveying, identifying alternative alignments, survey maps for
easement acquisition, and preparation of plans and
specifications for construction of a concrete pilot channel
and/or alternatives. Funding is available in the 1998
Certificate of Obligation Issue.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Award of an annual preventive maintenance contract to the SOLE
BIDDER, Five Star Electric Motors, Inc., San Antonio, Texas,
in the estimated amount of $18,185.00, for the preventive
maintenance on thirty variable frequency drives. These drives
located throughout the water distribution system, control the
water pump output.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Simon Ladder Towers,
Inc., Epharate, PA., in the amount of $299,990.00, for the
purchase of a Remanufactured 75' Aerial Ladder Truck. The
unit will be ready for delivery within nin e months. Funding
is available from contr actual obligation bond monies.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Award of an architectural contract to Design Group Interna-
tional, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $13,100.00
to design and prepare plans and specifications for Repairing
and Remodeling the Canizales Gym located at 1600 Guadalupe
Street. Funding is available in the 1998 Certificate of
Obligation Issue Canizales Gym Construction Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Award of an engineering contract for an amount not to exceed
$25,530.00 to Sherfey Engineering Company, L.L.C., Laredo,
Texas, for design and preparation of plans and specifications
and cost estimates for the Zacate Creek Beautification Project
from Saunders A venue to Garden Street. Funding is available
in the Community Development Zacate Creek Beautification.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Award of an engineering contract for an amount not to exceed
$59,400.00 to Mejia Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas, to
design, prepare plans and specifications and cost estimates
for the Calton Road Widening, adjacent to the New Public
Library. City of Laredo 1997-98 Certificate of Obligation
Issue Project. Funding is available in the 1998 Certificate
of Oblig ation Issue Calton Road Improvements Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Award of an engineering contract for an amount not to exceed
$13,940.00 to G.G. Salinas Engineering Co mpany, Laredo,
Texas, to design, prepare plans and specifications and cost
estimates for the sidewalk improvements for the Trautmann
Elementary Sc hool, Alma Pierce Sidewalks and Amparo Gutierrez
Elementary Schools and related improvements. Funding is
available in 1998 Certificate of Obligation Issue: Alma
Pierce Sidewalk Construction Project; Trautmann Elementary
Sidewalk Construction Project and in Calle Del Norte Sidewalk
Construction Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Authorization to award engineering consultant contract for the
West Laredo Traffic Circulation Study to Lockwood, Andrews and
Newnam, Inc., in the amount of $50,000.00. Funding is
available from Laredo Urban Transportation System (LUTS).
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Award of a surveying contract to Mejia Engineering Company,
Laredo, Texas, not to exceed $22,000.00 to provide land
survey, metes and bounds legal descriptions of and the
required right-of-way maps for the right-of-way acquisition of
the extension of the Bob Bullock Loop from IH-35 to the
proposed Bridgehead of the West Laredo International Bridge
(Fourth Bridge), approximately 2.1 miles and 400 feet wide.
Funding is available in the Bridge System - Fourth Bridge
Consulting Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Approval of change order no. 1, a increase of $50,691.00, to
add parking improvements at the U.S. Postal Office located at
2700 E. Saunders as part of the construction contract with
Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, of the E.D.A. Proj ect
No. 08-01-03080 Airport Medical Infrastructure Improvements
Arka nsas Avenue Extension. The original contract am ount was
$1,425,343.50. This change order b rings the total contract
amount to $1,477,684.50. Funding is available in the E.D.A.
Project No. 08-01-03080 - Airport Medical Infrastructure
Improvements Arkansas Avenue Extension. Funding is available
in the EDA Airport Medical Park Improvements Other Than
Building.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Approval of change order no. 2, a net decrease of $ 102.94 for
a decrease in drainage pipe and trench excavation safety not
required to complete the project, and for the addition of a
safety end treatment to the 48" diameter R.C.P. at Manadas
Creek, the addition of junction boxes to eliminate conflicts
with Delhi Gas Line and sanitary sewer main and the addition
of a metal beam guard rail with dead end sign west of the
interse ction of Markley Lane and Anna Avenue Truck Route to
the construction contract with Ramex Construction Comp any,
Houston, Texas, for the Santa Maria Avenue Drainage
Improvements between Del Mar Boulevard and Markley Lane. The
original construction contract was $1,993,475.00. This change
order brings the total contract amount to $1,993,359.36.
Funding is available i n the Drainage and Community
Development Santa Maria Drainage Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Approval of change order no. 3, a net decrease of $49,652.00,
for the balance of quantities actually constructed in place,
acceptance of the Montgomery - India Drainage Improvements
Project, and approval of final payment in the amount of
$62,005.28 to McLean Construction Company, Inc., Killeen,
Texas. The original construction contract was $485,726.05.
This change order brings the total contract amount to
$427,438.30. Funding is available in the Capital Improvement
Fund Montgomery - India Drain age Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Approval of change order no. 3, a decrease of $5,728.00, for
the balance of quantities actu ally constructed in place,
acceptance of San Salvador/Pine/Chestnut Drainage
Improvements, and approval of final payment in the amount of
$78,032.48 to Ramex Construction Company, Inc., Houston,
Texas. The ori ginal construction contract was $908,136.00.
Th is change order brings the total contract amount to
$908,248.50. Funding is available in the Drainage and
Community Development San Salvador/Pine/Chestnut Drainage
Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Acceptance of the Re-Roofing of the Center for the Arts
Building Project located at 500 San Agustin Ave nue, Old
Mercado Historic District and approval of final payment in the
amount of $15,914.65 to American Contracting Corporation,
Laredo, Texas. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvement Fund Re-Roofing Center for the Arts Building.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Authorizing the selection of a consultant and enter negotia-
tions for the Paseo Del Antiguo Laredo Pedestrian Facility
Project, an ISTEA enhancement project. The consultant
recommended for the project is Sprinkle Robey Architects.
Funding is available f rom a grant in the amount of
$1,076,158.00 and a $269,040.00 match is available from CDBG
monies.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Authorizing the City Manager to extend a professional services
contracts for one year with the providers listed below to
provide pharmaceuticals/home health care to AIDS clients of
the City of Laredo Health Department.
HIV/AIDS HOME CARE OF TEXAS $26,520.00 4/1/98 -3/31/99
HIV/AIDS J&A PHARMACY $77,900.00 4/1/98 -3/31/99
Funding is available in account #226-6081.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Authorizing the City Manager to renew a professional services
contract for with Dr. Winder Vasquez to pr ovide physician
coverage to clients of the Tubeculosis Elimination Program of
the City of Laredo Healt h Department for the period beginning
April 1, 1998 through August 31, 1999. Funding is available
in accounts #226-6067-543.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
44. Authorizing the City Manager to renew the annual maintenance
agreement in the amount of $14,311.05 from HumanSoft (formerly
Q.S. Incorporated) of Greenville, South Carolina, for the
period beginning April 1, 1998, through March 31, 1999, for
the maintenance of the software that was specifically written
for local health departments and installed at the City of
Laredo Health Department in 1992. Funding is available in
account #226-6062.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
45. Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to
the Texas Department of Health for continuation of the School
Based Health Program of the City of Laredo Health Department.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
46. Refunds of property taxes to the following company:
Walmart Properties, Inc. in the amounts of :
a. $ 7,537.83
b. $ 6,570.18
c. $10,199.84
d. $11,416.58
Wal-Mart Properties, Inc. appealed the valued placed by the
Webb County Appraisal District on four different parcels. The
Appraisal Review Board denied the appeal and Wal-Mart filed a
lawsuit in the District Court . There was an agreed judgment
between Wal-Mart and the WCAD which lowered the values. These
refunds are for the difference between the original taxes and
new taxes reflecting the court ordered values.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Appointment of Mayor Pro-Tem as per Ordinance No. 90-O-101
which provides for the Office of Mayor Protem, the term of
such office, the role of such office, and who shall preside in
the absence of Mayor and Mayor Protem.
Cm. Casso nominated Cm. Bruni to act as Mayor Pro-Tem.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso was excused at 6:40 p.m.
IX. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
48. Consideration to reschedule the Monday, May 25, 1998 regularly
scheduled City Council Meeting to Tuesday, May 26, 1998 due to
the May 25, 1998 Memorial Day Holiday.
Motion to cancel and move meeting to Monday, June 1, 1998.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Presentation of the Community Development Block Grant
allocation for the 24th Action Year Community Development
Block Grant $4,274,000.00, 1998 HOME Investment Partnerships
Program $1,257,000.00 and 1998 Emergency Shelter Grant
$167,000.00 for a total amount of $5,698,000.00 in support of
the preparation and submission of the 1998 Consolidated Plan
to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated that at
a public hearing back in April 27, 1998 her department
requested Council's view and comments on proposed allocation
of CDBG, ESG, and HOME. Since then her department has been
back for Council's consideration of the different activities
and projects. Mrs. Collazo further stated that Project 61
Street Improvements was initially at $980,000, reduced to
$703,000, based on Council's input, leaving that project at
$277,000.
The following changes were requested by City Council:
CDBG Sidewalk Approach-District IV $ 150,000
Raquel Gonzalez Park Acquisition 200,000
East Hachar Recreation Center 700,000
Hamilton Hotel-Section 108 Loan 148,000
Tinaja-Chacon Pilot Channel 410,000
Graffiti Removal Program 28,359
Housing Rehab Program 350,000
Lafayette Widening Program 675,000
Zacate Creek Linear Park 200,000
Blaine/Milmo/Loop 20 Improvements 90,000
Clark/Hendricks Street Improvements 45,862
Rehab Housing Adminstration 128,000
Administration 620,533
Code Enforcement 251,050
Total $4,274,000
Grand Amount $4,274,000
Mrs. Collazo continued with her presentation of Project 61,
stating that the project was originally set at pavement of 37
blocks but wound up with 39. Phase I with 19 blocks and Phase
II with 20 blocks. Phase I would take $387,635 including
grants for paving and storm drainage only, not including water
and sewage. She further stated that if Council wished to
proceed with the estimate as it appeared at $277,000, she
would then request that the project be cut in half to have
enough funds, unless other monies are allocated for this
project.
There was citizen participation on the HOME Program and
basically what is requested is down payment assistance. On
this program 15% is set aside (a statutory requirement) for
Community Development Organizations, so it is $188,550.
New construction was set at $345,997; down payment assistance
for Concord Hills, $600,000; and administration at $122,453.
The Emergency Shelter Grant Program with a grant amount of
$167,000. A 30% cap on the Homeless Prevention Program is
$47,595. This program is to prevent homelessness, including
payment of rents and/or mortgages and utilities provided to
individuals and families who have received eviction notices.
The Homeless Shelter Program for rehabilitation, renovation,
or conversion of buildings for use as emergency shelters for
the homeless is $111,055. With a 5% cap for administration of
the grant is $8,350.
Both programs will be advertised to request proposals from the
general public.
Mayor Pro-Tem Perez stated that he had been approached by
United I.S.D. Board Members who expressed interest in a
partnership with the City of Laredo to construct a
recreational center in the Sierra Vista area; therefore, he
was requesting that $410,000 of the Tinaja-Chacon Pilot
Channel Project be used for this construction. Should the
partnership not be in place by budget time the monies would
then be placed back into the drainage project.
Cw. Montalvo expressed concern as to what would happen to the
drainage project. Mayor Pro-Tem Perez explained that since
the project consisted of two phases that it would take at
least two years for completion so he could not see it being
affected.
Cw. Moreno stated that this money was appropriated by Council
to do the drainage project and that she did not agree with
Mayor Pro-Tem Perez in taking these monies to fund other
projects.
Motion to accept the allocations as presented.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 4 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cw. Montalvo
Cm. Perez
50. Presentation regarding the activities and services at the New
Main Library with discussion and possible action to increase
staff.
Janice Weber, Public Library Director, stated that the public
turn out at the library has exceeded the expectations but due
to the limited amount of staff people are having to stand in
line to be serviced. This has caused a number of complains
from both staff and the general public; therefore, she is
requesting that Council approve the increase of staff by 11.
Seven of these would be placed in public service; two in
technical service; one custodian; and one would remain at
branch. This additional staff would help on weekends,
evenings, and during the peak hours.
Motion to approve increase.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section 551.071(1)(a) to dis cuss pending litigation
regarding Hurd Urban Development, L.C. et.al. v. Federal
Highway Administration, et. al., Cause No. A-98-CA-204-JN, in
the U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas, Austin
Division, and return to open session for possible action
thereon.
Motion to go into executive session pursuant to Texas Code
Section 551.071(1)(a) to discuss pending litigation regarding
Hurd Urban Development, L.C. et.al. v. Federal Highway
Administration,et.al. Cause No. A-98-CA-204-JN, in the U.S.
District Court, Western District of Texas, Austin, Division.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After executive session Mayor Pro-Tem Perez announced that no
formal action was taken.
52. Presentation on the Laredo Bridge System's toll collection
upgrade options, selection of an option, approval to proceed
on the selected option, and authority to increase the project
funding from $767,678, which is available through the toll
equipment and related infrastructure account from a state
infrastructure bank loan to an additional $7,000,000, attained
through the sale of bridge system revenue bonds.
Florencio Pena, City Manager gave a brief explanation stating
that the new system would:
-ensure safety
-improve accountability
-facilitate the movement of traffic
-ensure customer convenience
-protect and improve the city's position as the "Gateway
to Mexico".
Mr. Pena then requested that Rafael Garcia, Bridge Manager,
make his presentation to Council. Mr. Garcia stated that
Council should consider three critical components in choosing
an option:
-upgrading of in-lane equipment
-centralized communication computer system connecting all
bridges
-weigh-in motion system
OPTION I Weigh-in Motion with AVI
Bridge I Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Bridge II Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Two electronic collection systems
Bridge III Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Five weigh-in motion scales
Five electronic collection system with AVI
Bridge IV Eight state of the art in-lane equipment
Eight weigh in-motion scales
Eight electronic collection system
Two spare in-lane motion scales
Two spare electronic collection systems
A centralized communication computer system between all
bridges.
Sub-Total $5,320,000
Marketing of the electronic collection system 200,000
Purchase of 50,000 transponders 1,500,000
Grand Total $7,020,000
OPTION II Static Weighing with AVI
With this system a truck must stop to be weighed.
Bridge I Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Bridge II Upgrade all in-ane equipment
Two electronic collection systems (AVIs)
Bridge III Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Five electronic collection system (AVIs)
One existing static scale
Bridge IV Eight state of the art in-lane equipment
Eight static scales
Eight electronic collection system
Sub-Total $5,955,000
Marketing of the eletronic collection system 200,000
Purchase of 50,000 transponders 1,500,000
Grand Total $7,655,000
Option III Static Weighing Only with AVIs
Bridge I Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Bridge II Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Bridge III Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Remain with one existing static scale
Bridge IV Upgrade all in-lane equipment
Eight state of the art in-lane equipment
Eight static scales
Sub-Total $5,105,000
Grand Total $5,105,000
Staff is recommending the selection and approval to proceed
with Option I, and the authority to increase project funding
from $767,678 to an additional $7 million.
Motion to approve Option I.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
53. Authorizing the City Manager to request proposals from
qualified consultants for professional services in the prepa-
ration of an application to the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD), for Round II Designation of an Urban
Empowerment Zone (EZ), as published on April 6, 1998, Federal
Register under "Notice Inviting Applications" Docket No. FR-
4353-N-01 . Currently, there is no authorization of grant
funds, nevertheless, HUD anticipates that funding will become
available in Fiscal Year 1999. The deadline for submission
of an application is October 9, 1998. Funding for this
project is available in the Community Development Block Grant
Fund.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated that
this is Round II of the Empowerment Zone. At this point, they
are looking at funding 15 enterprises and 5 as rural. This is
a $100,000,000 award, at a rate of $10,000,000 for ten years.
Eligibility criteria for these empowerment zones are:
-must be an urban area, not to exceed 20 square miles in
total land.
-must have a continuous boundary or consist of not more
than three non-continguous parcels which means a poverty
rate of not less than 25% for 90% of the census track.
-poverty rate for at least 50% of the census track must
be at 35%.
-population must be at least 50, but not more than
200,000.
-area must be one of persuasive poverty, unemployment and
general distress. Area is located within the
jurisdiction of the unit or units of general local
government. Cannot be the central business district
unless the poverty rate is 35% of each track.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. COMMUNICATIONS
None.
XI. CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION
54. Requests by Mayor and City Council members for presentation
and discussion.
A. Requests by Council member Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on the PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT issued by the
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Committee (TNRCC) and
the Texas Department of Health (TDH), with possible
action.
Cm. Bruni expressed concern regarding the haze brought
about from the fires in Mexico. He requested to know from
staff what could be done to alleviate this problem.
Jerry Robinson, Health Department Director, had two news
releases passed out to Council and City Manager. These
news releases came from TNRCC and appeared in the
newspaper on Sunday, May 17 and Monday, May 18, 1998,
where the public is being advised that the haze causes
nasal passage and throat irritation but not an alarming
situation. People are being asked to stay indoors, if
possible. It is also advised that caution should be taken
with the elderly and young children. It is further noted
that Governor Bush has made an offer to provide Mexico
with consultants and experts to assist them in the process
of putting out these fires.
Mr. Robinson requested Council permission to introduce
Mr. Jorge Pachelis the new regional director of the Texas
Natural Resource Conservation Commission that is housed in
Laredo. Mr. Pachelis explained that increases and
decreases on the level of haze has to do with the shift of
winds.
He further explained that monitors in Brownsville,
Houston, Corpus Christi and Houston indicated until Sunday
that the level of haze had decresed significantly due to
the wind moving to the gulf. Mr. Pachelis concurred with
Mr. Robinson on the information that he presented to
Council.
2. Status report on all retention/detention ponds being
constructed in District 2, with possible action.
Cm. Bruni referred to ordinances M96-R-16 dated June 20,
1996; M97-R-01 dated January 16, 1997; and M97-R-06 dated
February 18, 1997. These were motions made and approved
by Council. Wants to know if retention/detention ponds
being built in District II are adhering to these motions.
Cm. Bruni further stated that he had requested information
from staff as to when these ponds were being built.
Motion: Request that staff review these ordinances, do
necessary in-house work and report to Council at next
scheduled City Council meeting.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Status report on the paving of the 3300 block of Lane
Street, with possible action.
Cm. Bruni referred to a petition signed by 16 people who
live in this area and are requesting that it be paved. He
further stated that there was property in that area that
was infringing on the right-of-way and requested that
staff look into finding the owners to buy or to have it
condemned.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated that 40.6 feet were
part of the land grant that is the right-of-way and is
part of the Chacon addition. Adding that it is privately
owned and he would proceed to find owners for possible
donation or purchase of the property.
Cm. Bruni requested that this area be paved regardless of
how many feet are included as long as it be done along the
row of houses that are situated there. Further asking
that staff come back with a report concerning this issue.
4. Status report on the absence of stop signs on Mier Street
from the 2800 block to the dead end.
Cm. Bruni stated that he had a number of residents calling
to complain about motorists speeding from Arkansas east-
ward on Mier due to not having any traffic signs. He
asked staff for any suggestions to alleviate this problem.
Luis Landin, Traffic/Bridge Director, advised Cm. Bruni
that he had personally visited the area and there were now
a dead end sign on the corner of Roosevelt Street (one
block before dead end) and few 30 m.p.h. signs that have
been put up to help minimize speeding.
B. Requests by Council member Cecilia May Moreno.
1. Discussion and possible action to have the following
streets added to the resurfacing project:
2200 - 2500 Block of San Jorge
2200 - 2500 Blocks of San Enrique
2200 - 2500 Blocks of San Leonardo
Motion to add these to the next recycling project.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Consideration and possible action regarding controlling
traffic speed on Malinche Street from Lyon to Clark by
constructing curbs and installation of stop signs.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, advised Council of
having included, for their review, a copy of a study that
was conducted on these streets. The study gave the volume
of traffic at Malinche, Price, Kearney and Stewart. The
volume did not reflect the need for a four way stop being
that the amount of traffic has to be equal on all four
sides. The study also gave an average speed of 33 to 35%,
using the 85 percentile. Furthermore, his department
plans to put up a Stop Sign Ahead sign to help alleviate
the problem. He added that they have also put up larger
stop signs and have trimmed shrubs and some branches that
we felt were obstructing the view.
Cw. Moreno requested to know what the status was on the
low curbs.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, presented to Council, also
as part of the study, a cost estimate to replace low-back
with high-back curbs. This would be a retrofit job of
$193,000 to do all blocks. Do removal and replacement of
curb and gutter on all sidewalk areas and driveways. The
other alternative would be to do a stand up curb.
Motion to present to Council a cost estimate on a stand up
curb at the next budget meeting.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Requests by Council member Eliseo Valdez
1. Presentation by Gerald Schwebel and David Puig regarding
economic development strategy.
Gerald Schwebel with the Laredo Economic Develoment
Foundation made reference to the first presentation of an
incentive package where he sought endorsement and approval
from Council. He further stated that this same package
was presented to Webb County Commissioners and also sought
their endorsement and approval.
The Economic Development Foundation has begun the next
phase of the development plan to include a series of
presentations and looking at developing a public forum.
The objective is to inform Laredo citizens of the
alternatives of financing or funding our economic
development programs.
One of the alternatives is the concept of economic
development sales tax but there has been a lot of debate
about this issue. The most critical part of this is the
public input so we think that the city's town hall
meetings would be a good mechanism to share this informa-
tion with the public.
2. Status report on the initial request for a traffic study
at the intersection of St. James and Calle Del Norte.
(Co-sponsored by Joe A. Guerra)
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, reported that his
department had taken a count but still had other studies
pending. He further stated that he would bring to Council
his complete report with a recomendation within the next
two weeks.
D. Requests by Council member Joe A. Guerra.
1. Presentation by Robert P. Gutierrez regarding increasing
the City's downpayment assistance program to $9,000.00,
with possible action.
Robert P. Gutierez with Armadillo Construction requested
that the current down payment assistance program of $5,000
be modified to $9,000. He further explained that due to
public awareness and changing qualifying ratios that FHA
has come up with, it is becoming difficult to qualify
people and that 10 to 12 families are being turned down on
a weekly basis.
Mr. Gutierrez added that he had visited with staff and
that they agree with his recommendation. That this
modification be implemented immediately and continue to
work with it for four months. Should the program work
well, continue with it in 1999 and come up with some
monies to continue the program. Staff suggested to set
price caps and set minimum home sizes.
Cindy Collazo, Community Development Director, stated that
there was no problem with amending the down payment assis-
tance program, but asked that Council consider community
development setting parameters and make sure that houses
are not any smaller.
Motion to instruct staff to come back with all the details
at our next meeting.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Status report regarding reconstruction of Calton Road at
Yeary.
Larry Dovlina, Assistant City Manager, stated that he had
visited with the attorney and had gotten the documents
which need some grammatical corrections and name changes
that will be done by the city attorney.
Cindy Collazo, Community Develpment Director, reported
that she is in contact with Eric Modey of H.E.B. and have
advised him that we have acquired some of the right-of-way
but need to work at getting another parcel. The settle-
ment agreement is in place but has not been executed
because H.E.B. wants to make sure that the funding that
they will provide is in place. They will get back with a
report within the next two weeks.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, assured Council that he
would have a status report on this issue at every meeting
at every month.
Cm. Valdez requested to have staff look into last year's
minutes to see if the reconstruction of Calton Road
included the intersection of Springfield being that a lot
of heavy truck traffic has damamged this area.
3. Request for a traffic study at the intersection of Fenwick
Drive and McPherson Road.
Luis Landin, Traffic/Bridge Director, reported that a
study was being conducted to take a traffic count to see
if a traffic signal is warranted. A full report will be
presented to Council at the next or following council
meeting.
4. Traffic signal light, Encino and Mann Road or Northgate
Lane and Mann Road.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Engineer, stated that a count and
a delay study during the peak hour was conducted and based
on the information gathered a traffic light was not
warrated for this area. He further reported that the
study on Northgate Lane was not ready but that it would be
within the next two weeks.
Cm. Guerra requested that he get a written report on this
findings so that he may be able to provide it to the
people that requested a traffic light for this area.
E. Requests by Council member Mario G. Alvarado.
1. Staff update on the Santa Maria Drainage Project, with
possible action.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, reported that they had met
with Santa Maria property owners and expressed two areas
of concern:
-construction with the drainage project which is
being completed this month.
-the initiation of the reconstruction of Santa Maria
which will begin in the next few months and will be
an 8 month project.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, stated that with the 20 day
addition of construction that this contract will be
finished by July 14, 1998. At the end of the contract,
the city will have saved about $100,000 on the drainage.
On the reconstruction project we have the consultant
working on about 20 parcels of land that we need for the
construction of the the sidewalks, those surveys will be
done by target date of May 22.
Oscar Medina, Assistant Director of Public Works, stated
that his department had done some repair work on some of
the intersections on Saturday, May 16. They had also
worked on the utility cuts in front of the theatre and the
truck stop and plan to be back this coming Saturday to do
more smoothing out. Further stating that they are working
together with waste water to reconstruct and properly
grade the man hole that was reported.
2. Recognition of school staff and students who were cited
for their special achievements.
Farias Elementary
Professional - Jose Santacruz
Paraprofessional - Antonia Mendoza
Student - Mario Rodriguez
Parent - Rosario Gutierrez
Leyendecker Elementary
Professional - Veronica Noyola
Paraprofessional - Sylvia Ortiz
Student - Zandra Charles
Parent - Meli Garza
Apple Award - San Juanita Casso
Santa Maria Elementary
Professional - Maricela Garcia
Paraprofessional - Sylvia Tovar
Student - Jesus Morales
Parent - Delia Chapa
Apple Award - Olinda Schwebel
Christen Middle School
Professional - Mario Alberto Rodriguez
Paraprofessional - Ovidio Vargas
Student - Larry Miller
Parent - Berta Casso
Martin High School
Professional - Maggie Martinez
Paraprofessional - Jose Moreno
Student - Brenda Anderson
Parent - Olivia Guajardo
XII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
55. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 Annual
Budget in the amount of $13,000.00 for a grant from Central
Power & Light Company, providing for effective date.
Motion to open public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
No public input.
Motion to close public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Introduction of an Ordinance
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 Annual
Budget in the amount of $13,00 0.00 for a grant from Central
Power & Light Company, providing for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
56. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 by
increasing estimated revenues and appropriations in the
Benavides-Herrera home fund by $250,000 and authorizing the
City Manager to implement said budget, providing for publi-
cation and effective date.
Motion to open public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
No public input.
Motion to close public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Introduction of an Ordinance
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 by
increasing estimated revenues and appropriations in the
Benavides-Herrera home fund by $250,000 and authorizing the
City Manager to implement said budget.
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
57. Public hearing amending the contract with the Texas Department
of Health and budget revision in the amount of $514,500.00 in
additional funds for a new total of $2,161,807.00 for the
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning October 1,
1997, through September 30, 1998.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
No public input.
Motion to close public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Introduction of an Ordinance
Ordinance amending the contract with the Texas Department of
Health and budget revision in the amount of $514,500.00 in
additional funds for a new total of $2,161,807.00 for the
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program of the City of
Laredo He alth Department for the period beginning October 1,
1997, through September 30, 1998.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
III. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING
CORPORATION
Motion to recess and convene as the Laredo Municipal Housing
Corporation.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
58. Authorization to terminate the construction agreement with
Mr. Virgilio Diaz dba E.Q. Construction to provide the cabinet
work for the homes under the Lease/Purchase Program and
request to award a contract in the amount of $70,088.64 to the
second lowest bidder, Home Art of Laredo, Texas. Mr. Vigilio
Diaz dba E.Q. Construction, lowest bidder, has requested to
terminate the agreement to provide the cabinets for the homes
under the Lease/Purchase Program. The original bid from Home
Art was $73,009.00, however, LMHC is requesting that Home Art
install cabinets in 48 houses only. E.Q. Construction has
already installed cabinets in the first 2 homes of construc-
tion Phase 1. The second lowest bid is still within budget
and will provide an affordable pric e for the homes being
built.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
59. Approval of change order no. 2, an increase of $19,500.00 to
the construction contract with J.M. General Co nstruction of
Laredo, Texas to provide labor and materials for the
installation of 3 ceiling fans on each of the fifty (50)
houses being built at the Riverhills Subdivision, Unit 1,
under the Lease/Purchase Program. The original plans and
specifications do not include ceiling fans for the 50
affordable homes under the Lease/Purchase Program. The cost
to provide and install the 3 ceiling fans in each house is
$390.00. The total construction cost for each house will
remain affordable to the future home owners. The change order
increases the total contract amount from $109,848.50 to
$129,348.50.
Motion to spprove.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
60. Approval of change order number 3, an increase of $18,350 .00
to the construction contract with Mario Gonzalez dba MG
Builders of Laredo, Texas to provide the labor and materials
for the installation of side walks for all fifty lots at the
Riverhills Subdivision, Unit 1, under the Lease/Purchase
Program. The cost of th is change order will not affect the
future homeowners monthly payment. The sidewalks are necessary
and needed to comply with the Laredo Land Development Code.
The original contract amount was $375,030.00. Th is change
order brings the total contract am ount to $393,380.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
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. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
61. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Carl Turner Equipment,
San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $28 ,465.50, for the
purchase of one heavy duty brake drum and disk lathe. The
brake lathe will allow the Maintenance Division to reuse the
brake drums instea d of purchasing new brake drums every six
months. Delivery is expected within three weeks.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Mass Transit Board and convene
as City Council.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Adjournment time: 9:10 p.m.
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 31
are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council
Meeting held on the 18th of May, 1998.
_________________________
Gustavo Guevara, Jr.
City Secretary