CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
5:30 P.M.
M99-R-06 M I N U T E S FEBRUARY 22, 1999
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores called the
meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo G. Agredano, Councilmember, District I
Louis H. Bruni, Councilmember, District II
John C. Galo, Councilmember, District III
Cecilia May Moreno, Councilmember, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Councilmember, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Councilmember, District VI
Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo, Councilmember, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary
Florencio Pena, III City Manager
Jaime L. Flores, City Attorney
Absences:
Motion to excuse Cm. Alvarado.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Flores opened the floor commending everyone that
participated in the Washington's Birthday Festivities.
Note:
At this point Cw. Montalvo asked to move up item #20(C)1.
IV. MINUTES
1. City Council Workshop (Torres), January 15, 1999
City Council Workshop (Fidenor), January 18, 1999
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni
V. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCE
2. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Laredo
National Bank for approximately 5,632 square feet constituting
Building No. 146 located at 4401 Maher Avenue and situated on
an approximate 21,217 square foot tract of land at the Laredo
International Airport.
1. The lease term is for ten (10) years commencing on July 1,
1998 and ending on June 30, 2008 and may be extended for
three (3) consecutive terms of (5) years each ending on
June 30, 2023.
2. The initial monthly rent shall be $500.00 commencing on July
1, 1998 and ending June 30, 2000 and increased to $750.00
per month for the subsequent two years ending June 30, 2002
and increased to $950.00 per month for the subsequent two
years until June 20, 2004 and effective July 1, 2004 the
monthly rent shall be $950.00 plus annual Consumer Price
Index rent adjustment. The monthly rent effective
July 1, 2006 and July 2, 2016 shall be adjusted by fair
market rent appraisal. The Laredo National Bank will
initially make the approximate $33,146.00 in improvements to
the lease premises.
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
3. Authorizing the Execution of an interim loan agreement between
the City of Laredo and Norwest Bank Texas, N.A., Laredo, Texas
in the amount of $8,000,000 to facilitate the award of a
contract for the purchase of a Toll Bridge Collection System
upgrade payable from surplus revenues of the City's
International Bridge System, and other matters related to this
subject.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Rescinding Ordinance No. 99-O-006 and granting a license to
Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, to erect, construct,
maintain and operate a wire telecommunications system for a
term of four (4) years with one (1), four (4) year renewal
option period pursuant to the City of Laredo's Wire
Telecommunications System registration and licensing ordinance
of 1998 #98-O-353; and providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VI. FINAL READING
Internet Available: http://www.cityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #99-O-053,
#99-O-054, #99-O-056, #99-O-057, #99-O-058, #99-O-059,
#99-O-060, #99-O-061, #99-O-062, and #99-O-063.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. 99-O-053 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease agreement between the City of Laredo (Airport
Fund) as LESSOR, and the City of Laredo (Laredo
Police Department), as LESSEE, for approximately
3,500 square feet constituting office space within
the 1st floor of Building 132 located at 4719 Maher
Avenue at the Laredo International Airport.
1. Lease term is five consecutive years commencing on
March 1, 1999 and ending on February 28, 2004, and
may be extended for three (3) terms of five (5)
years each ending February 28, 2009 and February
28, 2014 and February 28, 2019.
2. Monthly rent shall be $2,800.00 and will be
adjusted annually during the primary and extension
terms of lease according to changes in the
Consumer Price Index. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-053.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-0-054 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease agreement between the City of Laredo (Airport
Fund) as LESSOR, and the City of Laredo (Laredo
Police Department), as LESSEE, for approximately
22,000 square feet constituting land located at 4719
Maher Avenue at the Laredo International Airport.
1. Lease term is five consecutive years commencing on
March 1, 1999 and ending on February 28, 2004, and
may be extended for three (3) terms of five (5)
years each ending February 28, 2009 and February
28, 2014 and February 28, 2019.
2. Monthly rent shall be $150.00 and will be adjusted
annually during the primary and extension terms of
this lease according to changes in the Consumer
Price Index. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-054.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-056 Ordinance setting the maximum speed limits in that
portion of Loop 20 between US 83 East towards State
Highway 359, within the city limits of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas, as 40 MPH between U.S. 83 and
approximately 150 feet east of Los Presidentes Avenue
and 45 MPH from that point to State Highway 359, as
defined in TXDOT Control Section Map 0086-14.
(Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-056.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-057 Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Administration,
Article I. in general, Section 2.5 of the Code of
Ordinances by adding subparagraph (c) by providing
the place where City Council meetings are to be held;
at City Hall or at any designated council district;
and providing for publication and effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-057.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-058 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999
Annual Budget to reflect an increase of $23,373 in
transportation planning funds. The appropriation of
$154,208 comes from the Transportation Equity Act for
the 21st Century. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-058.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-059 Ordinance deleting Article II, of the Laredo Land
Development Code and amending Chapter 25, Article I,
of the Code of Ordinance of the City of Laredo,
entitled plumbing, by Adopting the 1997 Edition of
the Standard Plumbing Code, the Texas State Board of
Plumbing Examiners License Law, The Texas State Board
Plumbing Examiners Rules, Regulating and controlling
the design, construction, quality on materials,
erection, installation, alteration, repair, location,
relocation, replacement addition to, use or
maintenance of plumbing system; providing for issues
permits, and collection of fees, therefore; repealing
all other ordinances and parts of ordinances in
conflict herewith; providing for publication and
effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-059.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-060 Ordinance approving an amendment to the contract with
the Texas Department of Health and budget in the
amount of $285,938 for the HIV/STD Ryan White Care
Consortium Project of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning April 1, 1999,
through March 31, 2000. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-060.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-061 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999
annual budget in the amount of $50,392 for funding of
the Multi-Agency Major Organization Investigation
Task Force for the period of January 1, 1999 through
December 31, 1999. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-061.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-062 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block 1,
Ponderosa Industrial Park, Unit IV, located at the
north end of OWK Dr., from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District). (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-062.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
99-O-063 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1 and 2, Block 1,
Ponderosa Industrial Park, Unit V, located at the
north end of Tex-Mex Dr., from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District). (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #99-R-063.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. RESOLUTIONS
6. 99-R-015 Requesting assistance from Texas and United States
Congressional Representatives to take action
regarding the downturn of the Oil and Gas Industry in
Webb and surrounding counties and to develop a
program to address this crisis.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-015.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. 99-R-025 Authorizing the City Manager to sign a Memo of
Agreement between Webb County and the City of Laredo
to fund a Rain Enhancement Program.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-025.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 99-R-026 Authorizing the City Manager to sign an agreement
between the City of Laredo and the Winter Garden
Ground Water Conservation District for a Rain
Enhancement Program to commence on May 1, 1999.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-026.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 99-R-027 Authorizing the City Manager to sign a Memo of
Agreement between local land owners and the City of
Laredo to fund a Rain Enhancement program.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-027.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 99-R-028 Accepting a grant from the South Texas Development
Council of Governments in the amount of $25,000.00
with the City designating $100,000.00 in matching
funds and/or in-kind services for a total of
$125,000.00 to construct a permanent household
hazardous waste collection facility.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-028.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 99-R-029 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant from
the Office of the National Drug Control Policy
(HIDTA) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area in the
amount of $411,598 to fund the Multi-Agency Financial
Disruption Task Force. The National Drug Control
Policy (HIDTA) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area
is funding the operation at no cost to the City.
Funds will be used to pay for personnel salaries,
travel and operational expenses beginning January 1,
1999 through December 31, 1999.
Motion to approve Resolution #99-R-029.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. MOTIONS
12. Consideration of an award of contract 99-039 to the LOW BIDDER,
Dell Computer Corporation, Round Rock, Texas, in the amount of
$104,541.24, for the purchase of sixty eight personal
computers. Delivery of the computers is expected within thirty
days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. Consideration to authorize the purchase of two fire pumper
trucks, through the Houston Galveston Area Council of
Governments (HGAC) - Cooperative Purchasing Program, in the
amount of $580,288.00. One truck will be a replacement for a
1974 American LaFrance truck currently assigned to Station #2
and the other truck will be assigned to Station #11. Delivery
of these pumper trucks is expected within six to eight months.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. Consideration to authorize the purchase of a combination
sewer/catch basin cleaner truck for the Engineering Department
N.P.D.E.S. Division, through the Houston Galveston Area Council
of Governments (HGAC) - Cooperative Purchasing Program, in the
amount of $171,048.49. This truck will be used to clean the
storm water inlets and manholes in accordance to EPA
requirements. The truck will be leased purchased on a three
year lease purchase contract. Financing will be provided by
The Associates, Dallas, Texas. Delivery of this truck is
expected within thirty days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. Consideration to award a thirty-six month contract in the
estimated amount of $35,754.00, to the SECOND LOWEST PROPOSAL,
Office Communications Systems, Laredo, Texas, for providing a
copier to use by all City Departments. This contract is 47%
less than the previous.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Consideration of a request by Mayor Elizabeth G. "Betty" Flores
and City Council Members of information on the impact of
implementing an additional $5,000 exemption to the existing
over 65 exemption and/or granting a $5,000 homestead exemption
to all home owners or mobile home owners in comparison to other
cities in the state of Texas. The City of Laredo does not offer
the homestead exemption at the present time, but the City of
Laredo does offer $25,000 exemption for home owners over 65
years of age.
Phyllis Colon, Tax Assessor Collector, reported that our
current $25,000 exemption for home owners over 65 years old was
increased from $20,000 four years ago. She explained that for a
$25,000 home or less the tax owed is zero, and on a $50,000
home the tax due, at the present rate, is $134.99. And, if the
exemption increases to $30,000 the tax due would be $109.99.
If the exemption goes up on each home, the value would drop;
therefore, the amount of money will go up.
Ms. Colon informed Council that the total appraised value of
all property in the City is $4,765,987,974; however, government
owned properties, churches, properties exempt by state law,
etc. are exempted. Many people over 65 years old own homes of
less than $25,000, but we only exempt up to the value of the
property. There are currently 6,000 families on the over 65
years old exemption that have a $25,000 property valuation, and
approximately $775,000 have been lost here. So, granting an
additional $5,000 exemption will result in approximately
$877,000; that is about $100,000 more. The higher the
exemption, the higher the number of exempt properties.
However, we can look at the growth of our tax base. On the
last time that the exemption was increased, we didn't need to
adjust the rate because the overall growth of the tax base was
more than what we took off.
Mayor Flores thinks that the City of Laredo can absorb the
additional $100,000. This will allow citizens over 65 years
old, usually on a fixed income, to keep some additional money
in their pockets.
Council agreed to entertain only the exemption increase from
$25,000 to $30,000 for citizens over 65; therefore, the $5,000
homestead exemption will not be considered at this time.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. STAFF REPORTS
17. Presentation of the 1997-98 Comprehensive Annual Financial
Report (CAFR) prepared by the City of Laredo's Financial
Services Department and audited by the independent audit firm
of Baum & Mejia CPA's.
Clayton Baum and Raul Garza, from Baum & Mejia CPA's, came
before Council. Mr. Garza gave a report to Council.
Cm. Guerra reported that the Audit Committee held a meeting,
earlier this afternoon, with the auditors from Baum & Mejia who
answered the questions to the Committee's satisfaction. Cw.
Moreno was the chair person, and Cm. Valdez and himself
attended the meeting.
Cw. Moreno informed that issues pertaining to the increasing
unfunded liability and the retirement plan were discussed.
Another issue discussed was the review valuations of the
general fixed assets in which the auditors explained that an
adjustment needs to be made. On another issue, Cw. Moreno
wants to hear from staff within 1-2 months on the repeated and
current management points because, although, the repeated
points may not be significant in the total picture, she feels
that they need to be addressed.
Conrado Hein, Finance Director, said that he has had extensive
discussions with Mr. Baum regarding the repeated and current
management points. Mr. Hein believes that because the City has
1800 to 2000 employees there is room for; some things are
unavoidable.
Mr. Baum replied that during the past year, his firm found
significant improvements and efforts made by staff. In fact,
this was mentioned on their report.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that the auditors have an
unqualified statement on the City's financial conditions as
well as on the adequacy of the controls that the City has in
place.
Mr. Baum concluded by stating that the three audit reports are
unqualified opinions. The best opinion that any outside
auditor can give in the management letter is an attempt to
point out some areas that might need some improvements.
Nothing was found on the reports, financial statements, or on
the City's internal control system that would cause the
auditing firm to take an exception. He added that the big
picture is very positive.
18. Presentation with discussion and consideration of action
regarding the Paseo del Antiguo Laredo Pedestrian Facility
design.
Keith Selman, Planning Director, reported that an application
for an enhancement grant to renovate downtown Laredo sidewalks
and improve pedestrian accessibility was made to ISTEA. The
grant was awarded through TXDOT and supplemental funding for
the project will come from CDBG. At the present time the
design is about wrapped up and the specs are 50% completed.
David Sprinkle, with Sprinkle-Robey Architects from San
Antonio and in association with Sherffey Engineering, showed
the design and gave a detailed presentation to Council. He
informed that the material for the sidewalks will be stained
concrete.
19. Status report on the City of Laredo's State Legislative Plan,
with possible action.
Larry Dovalina, Assistant City Manager, reported that in order
to procure a point of contact between our lobbyists and staff,
staff members formed a committee to monitor bills on particular
areas. In this way, staff will quickly contact Council on
issues of particular importance. He mentioned that we have been
getting all sorts of bills since late November. The bills were
distributed among staff members, and then bill categories in
which staff members indicate if we should support a bill,
endorse a bill, whether we are neutral on a position or have no
position, or if we should oppose a bill, were set up. A report
on these categories was provided to Council for their review.
And, because March 30, 1999 is the last day to file any bill,
this item will be on the next agenda for Council's action.
Mayor Flores wanted to know what would be next action after
Council reviews staff members's recommendations on the bills.
For instance, would the action be to actually go and endorse a
bill either by letter or by presentation. Also, the same
question is raised for the opposition of a bill.
Mr. Dovalina replied that in most cases, a letter with the
legislative proposal will be written. Then the letter will be
given to our lobbyists, who in turn will shop our position with
the different members who have bills impacted by whatever
decision the council makes. In some cases depending on the
severity or importance of a bill, we may bring independent
resolutions, like taking a position on a particular bill or
asking that certain amendments be attached to certain bills,
to be adopted by the Council.
Mayor Flores wants Mr. Dovalina to bring a summary of the
discussion held with Mr. Mario Martinez, as well as the
discussion that we had with Ms. Andrea McWilliams, on the next
time this item comes back. She wants to make sure that there
is some focus on the issues that are important to this Council.
X. COMMUNICATIONS
a) Cm. Bruni requested a moment of silence for Ms. Cristina
Garcia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Julio Garcia, who passed
away two days ago.
b) Mr. Jesus Ponce talked about a recent article on the
newspaper regarding the colonias.
c) Mr. Juan Carmona wanted to know what is being done to clean
up Jarvis Plaza; he was speaking about the retired guys
that, at the beginning of each month, spend their checks on
all the females. He also asked if the City, at least once
a month, could clean up under the overpasses.
XI. CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION
20. Requests by Mayor and City Council members for presentation and
discussion.
A. Request by Council member Alfredo Agredano
1. Confirmation of appointee, Nick Link to the Citizens
Environmental Committee.
Motion to confirm appointee, Nick Link to the Citizens
Environmental Committee.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Request by Council member Cecilia May Moreno
1. Confirmation of appointee, Belinda Lozano to the
Citizens Environmental Committee.
Motion to confirm appointee, Belinda Lozano to the
Citizens Environmental Committee.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Request by Council member Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo
1. Presentation by Sharon Cruz, Caminos Del Rio, on proposed
geological study, with possible action.
Sharon Cruz, from Caminos Del Rio, stated that it is very
important for the City of Laredo to get into the birding
enterprise just because it is there, it is available and
it is a money generator. In order to move ahead with this
project, the U.S. Geological Survey needs to perform
birding studies. The nesting surveys need to take place
in the beginning of March in order to identify which
birds nest in this area, which birds live here year
round, and which birds visit here. This will provide us
information on what we will be promoting.
She added that $10,000 are needed for this year's study,
and the quicker the study is done, the quicker we will
get into the birding enterprise. The sites that have
been pinpointed for the study include the gravel pits
area out on the river; the lake area; Zacate Creek, and
Manadas Creek. The first two areas can be accessed more
rapidly than the creek areas, but the creek areas are
possible park areas that the City may look into.
Providing recommendations and ideas to Council of what
can be done to get the area ready for birding is part of
the study.
Don Railey, Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau (LCVB)
Director, supports the birding industry because it can be
used as an attraction to bring more visitors to this part
of the State. He informed Council that there is a line
item in the budget identified as non-allocated funds
that can be used for this purpose.
Motion to approve the allocation of $10,000 for Birding
Studies from CVB Budget to Caminos Del Rio.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Note: At this point Mayor Flores requested items #2 and
#30 to be moved up.
2. Status report on the proposed River Road.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, reported that 1998 flood
damaged the road in two specific areas. One of the areas
is near the bend, right past the Tex-Mex railroad, where
a sink hole was formed. There is another sink hole
further up close to LCC. He had a discussion with Mr.
Oscar Garza and other members of the Border Patrol who
indicated that plans are underway to have the Military
repair those areas during April. They also suggested
that, for a more long-term solutions and/or improvements
to that road, we may need to meet with officials in
Washington, D.C.
3. Presentation by Jesus Hernandez on the status of
veteran's meals from The Laredo Regional Food Bank, with
possible action.
Motion to table this item for the next meeting.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
21. Public hearing concerning application by Felix De Leon amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
Lots 5, 6, and 7, Block 1005, Eastern Division, located at 1800
Ligarde St., from B-1 (Limited Business District) to B-3
(Community Business District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lots 5, 6, and 7, Block 1005, Eastern Division,
located at 1800 Ligarde St., from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to B-3 (Community Business District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Agredano
22. Public hearing concerning application by Paul Young, amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
2.730 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located
south of SH 59 within the Paul Young Auto Mall, from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 2.730 acres, as further described by metes and bounds
located south of SH 59 within the Paul Young Auto Mall, from
R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of Paul Young, spoke in favor to add
to existing part of the dealership.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
23. Public hearing concerning application by Paul Young amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
102.319 acres, as further described by metes and bounds,
located south of SH 59, also known as the Zuniga and Young
Big O Ranch, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to
AG (Agricultural District). The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommends approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 102.319 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located south of SH 59, also known as the Zuniga and
Young Big O Ranch, from R-1 (Single Family Residential
District) to AG (Agricultural District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of Paul Young and Mr. Oscar Zuniga who
have family ties between them, spoke in favor of the AG zone
change which would be developed.
Motion to close the public hearing; concur with the Planning
and Zoning Department to approve the zone change; and introduce
the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Galo
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni
24. Public hearing concerning application by Ricardo H. Alvarez,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 3, Block 600, Eastern Division, located at 1215
Hendricks Ave., from B-1 (Limited Business District) to R-3
(Mixed Residential District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 3, Block 600, Eastern Division, located at 1215
Hendricks Ave., from B-1 (Limited Business District) to R-3
(Mixed Residential District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Galo
25. Public hearing concerning application by Blackstone Dilworth,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 60.25 acres as further described by metes and bounds,
located on the north side of the Bob Bullock Loop, between
Grand Central Blvd. and McPherson Rd., from AG (Agricultural
District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District). The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommends approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 60.25 acres as further described by metes and bounds,
located on the north side of the Bob Bullock Loop, between
Grand Central Blvd. and McPherson Rd., from AG (Agricultural
District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Harry Jewitt, representing the Dilworth family, spoke in
favor of the zone change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
26. Public hearing concerning application by Cesar A. Avendano,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 2 and the south 23.15 ft. of Lot 4, Block 720,
Western Division, located at 3401 Camp Ave., from AG
(Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of this
item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 2 and the south 23.15 ft of Lot 4, Block 720,
Western Division, located at 3401 Camp Ave., from AG
(Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
27. Public hearing concerning application by Laredo Distribution
Center, Inc. and Jorge Vasquez, President amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 139.6458
acres as further described by metes and bounds located at the
northwest corner of FM 3464 and FM 1472, from R-1 (Single
Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District). The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of this item.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 139.6458 acres as further described by metes and
bounds located at the northwest corner of FM 3464 and FM 1472,
from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District).
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and table this item until
the next available meeting.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999 Annual
Budget in the amount of $411,598 to fund the Financial
Disruption Task Force. The National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA)
High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area is funding the operation
at no cost to the City. Funds will be used to pay for
personnel salaries, travel and operational expenses beginning
January 1, 1999 through December 31, 1999.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999 Annual Budget
in the amount of $411,598 to fund the Financial Disruption Task
Force. The National Drug Control Policy (HIDTA) High Intensity
Drug Trafficking Area is funding the operation at no cost to
the City. Funds will be used to pay for personnel salaries,
travel and operational expenses beginning January 1, 1999
through December 31, 1999.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 9 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
29. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999 annual
budget in the amount of $70,105 for the Multi-Agency narcotic
Task Force. Funding is available from the opening balance of
the Narcotic Task Force Division and will be used to pay
overtime for the second quarter of this fiscal year. Grant
period is from June 1, 1998 through May 31, 1999.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1998-1999 annual budget
in the amount of $70,105 for the Multi-Agency narcotic Task
Force. Funding is available from the opening balance of the
Narcotic Task Force Division and will be used to pay overtime
for the second quarter of this fiscal year. Grant period is
from June 1, 1998 through May 31, 1999.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
30. Public hearing and consideration of an appeal of an order of
the Historic/Landmark Board regarding demolition of all
structures except for the carriage house and installation of
parking lot and landscaping at:
Location: Lots 4, 5, 6, and 7, Block 44WD
Commonly known as: 802 Hidalgo, 804 Hidalgo, 805 Farragut
Petitioner: Laredo National Bank.
Old Mercado Historic District.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Nina Nixon made the presentation before the Council. On
April 1998, Mr. J.C. Trevino, Attorney representing Laredo
National Bank (LNB) stated that the bank was going to close on
the property. The Historic District/Landmarks Board advised
him that the property was within the Old Mercado Historic
District, and that such building was historic. He was also
advised about the carriage house located on that site; however,
on the summer of 1998, LNB demolished the back section of 805
Farragut without the Historic District review and without a
demolition permit. The Building Department placed a stop work
order on August 6, 1998, and then the case came for the
Historic District/Landmark Board on November 19, 1998. At that
time the board did approved partially LNB's request. The board
gave its approval to demolish a modern warehouse structure at
the corner of 802 Hidalgo. In addition, the board approved the
demolition of a late Victorian structure located at 804
Hidalgo, that due to its modification during the 1970's, lost
its historic integrity. But the board denied the demolition of
the structure located at 805 Farragut, which includes a late
Victorian transitional house with its perimeter wall, almost
100 years old, and its carriage house. However, on December 16,
1998, LNB demolished a large section of the historic wall
without the required permit and violating the Historic Code of
Ordinance.
The bank is appealing the order of the Historic Board to
demolish the property and to preserve the carriage house only.
The bank indicates that because repairs were made to the
property between 1916 and 1925, the property is less
significant; on the contrary, the board considers the changes
to be historic. The two levels of significance are either
architectural or historic. And based on its historic
significance, this property may be eligible for the National
Register of Historic Places because it served as the residence
of Dr. Juan F. De La Garza who served as Mayor of Nuevo Laredo
for over 9 years. Around the turn of the Century, this man was
a prominent, devoted civic leader, and very active in the
medical community. He was a reformer in Nuevo Laredo who
migrated during the Mexican Revolution.
Jose Trevino, III, Attorney representing LNB, explained that
the perimeter wall was already leaning against one of the
structures approved to be demolished. When the contractor was
working on that structure, the wall fell down; thus it was done
unintentionally. Regarding the back part of the building that
was demolished, he stated that Ms. Mendez had pointed that it
was not part of the original building and it could be
demolished.
Mr. Trevino emphasized that this is an appeal for the Historic
Landmark's decision to deny the demolition of this building.
Even though the building is listed as having historic
significance, it is not designated as a landmark, yet its
primary significance is that it is old. He pointed that the
building has many interior and exterior deficiencies; in fact,
the City's building inspector reported that he would not
approve any renovation unless these items are totally cured.
It has been estimated that it would cost approximately $250,000
to bring the building back to standards. Although cost alone
shouldn't be an issue on whether or not granting a demolition
permit on a building that may be considered as historical
significance, we need to consider everything else. The
building was vacant for a long time, and it even had a fire. It
has major foundation and roof problems among other
deficiencies. It has also been a haven for vagrants, and
lately served as a bar. The building produces conditions that
are not in the best interest to the health, safety, or welfare
of the citizens of Laredo.
He added that LNB's plans for demolishing the building will
enhance the property around it. The bank proposes to save an
oak tree that is damaging the building's foundation because if
the building stays, the tree goes. Also, the bank wants to
bring the carriage house back to its old glory, perhaps putting
a carriage, and turn it into an attraction. The property will
be used as a parking lot which will take employees's vehicles
off the street, therefore, improving the City's parking. If
needed, since Dr. De La Garza was a prominent citizen of Nuevo
Laredo, LNB may erect a nice plaque showing the historical
value of where his residence used to be and make it part of the
carriage house. Finally, Mr. Trevino stated that cost wise it
is not possible to renovate and restore that house the way the
Landmark Board would like it to be done. Furthermore, the
building is unsafe and has many problems; therefore, the bank
is asking the City Council to consider granting the demolition
permit.
Margarita Araiza, from Webb County Heritage Foundation,
reported that many people come before the Landmark Board on a
monthly basis with petitions for changes to historic
structures, and most of these people are willing to comply with
the urban guidelines designed for the Historic District. Even
though it represents a cost to these people, they do it because
they respect and recognize the importance of maintaining the
integrity of our Historic District. Ms. Araiza urged Council
not to begin a selective enforcement process of these
guidelines by exempting certain businesses or entities from the
same rules that everybody else in the community follows. This
building happens to be important both historically and
architecturally. She asked Council to lead by example and to
show to the community how the they are to lead this City into
the next century. Are we serious about preserving our historic
district, or are we going to sort of pick and choose depending
on the applicant.
Mr. Jesus Ponce spoke against the demolition of the building.
Cm. Bruni questioned the historical value of the building and
stated that Council should look at every appeal case on an
individual basis.
Motion to close the public hearing and allow the demolition of
the building at 805 Farragut, but exclude the two-story
carriage structure.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Note:
At this point the meeting took the regular order of business.
XIII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Mass
Transit Board.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Public hearing to realign the #3 Convent bus route to serve the
New Mercy Hospital complex and to permanently implement the #6
Cedar bus re-route instead of restoring to its original, due to
new ridership that has been established as a result of the re-
route, necessitated by the Saunders Street Reconstruction
Project.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
MOTION
Motion to realign the #3 Convent bus route to serve the New
Mercy Hospital complex and to permanently implement the #6
Cedar bus re-route instead of restoring to its original, due to
new ridership that has been established as a result of the re-
route, necessitated by the Saunders Street Reconstruction
Project.
There was no public input.
Motion to approve and close the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Adjournment time: 7:45 p.m.
Moved : Cm. Galo
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 25 are
true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council Meeting
held on the 22nd day of February, 1999. A certified copy is on file at
the City Secretary's Office.
_________________________
Gustavo Guevara, Jr.
City Secretary