CITY OF LAREDO

                                           CITY COUNCIL MEETING

                                                        M2000-R-18

                                         CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

                                             1110 HOUSTON STREET

                                              LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

                                                        JULY 3, 2000

                                                           5:30 P.M.

 

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 Agredano,                                                        Councilmember, District I

            Louis H.  Bruni,                                                            Councilmember, District II

            John C.  Galo,                                                              Councilmember, District III

            Johnny Amaya,                                                 Councilmember, District IV

            Eliseo Valdez, Jr.,                                                         Councilmember, District V

            Joe A.  Guerra,                                                 Mayor Pro Tempore, District VI

            Jose Alberto Valdez, Jr.,                                               Councilmember, District VII

            Juan Ramirez,                                                               Councilmember, District VIII

            Gustavo Guevara, Jr.,                                                   City Secretary

            Larry Dovalina,                                                 Acting City Manager

            Cynthia Collazo,                                                           Acting City Manager

            Jaime Flores,                                                                City Attorney

 

IV.       MINUTES

 

Approval of the minutes of June 6, 2000 and June 22, 2000 with the correction of adding

Cm.  Bruni to the June 6th meeting.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:  8                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

Announcements

 

Mayor Flores announced that on July 13th the Conference of Mayors is leading a delegation of “Mayors to Washington” to lobby the Senate for passage of the Conservation and Reinvestment Act.  She stated that if approved it would assist the state and local funding with  $450,000,000 for our urban parks and recreation recovery program.

 

She thanked John Viduarri, Director of Parks and Recreation, for his assistance in completion of a survey that will be submitted on behalf of the City of Laredo.  It will address the Laredo Park and Recreation Master Plan approved by the Council on December 1999.

 

John Viduarri stated that the Parks and Recreation Master Plan was formatted to apply for funding as soon as they are available through the Urban Park and Recreation Act.

 

Mayor Flores read the following letter from Juanita Diaz:

 

I would like to thank you again for your kindness on the day of June 21 when my 18 year old son was coming home from a graduation trip from California.  His plane from Dallas to Laredo was cancelled due to bad weather.  He called me around

8 p.m. that he would have to stay over until the morning.  He was very nervous.  He did not know what to do since this was his first flight.  I felt helpless like all mothers would when our children are in trouble.  We are like lionesses protecting her cubs. 

 

Two hours later he called me, I guess from your cellular telephone, saying “Mom, guess what?   Mayor Betty Flores is giving me and 11 other people a ride to Laredo”.  You rented a van to Laredo. 

 

I was stunned and asked him, “How did you meet her?  Was she on your flight”?  He said, no, it happened that we were both at Gate 2 and knew what was happening to the flight. 

 

So we waited up at all hours until you brought my son home - right to my front door!  Clearly, it didn’t matter to you how late it was; it was 3 a.m. - or how far we lived - in Los Obispos.  You were so kind and nice.  It was my first time meeting you, and you’re a beautiful person.  You even took the time and effort to get down and introduce yourself while smiling introducing the others with you.  I was so grateful to you.  We even embraced as close friends do. 

 

Even in our time, the way society is, where we judge and are being judged, and where people are afraid to speak to or help strangers, you proved me wrong.  You proved to me that people, men or women in Laredo, that are in higher positions than of the common person, you proved to be a great person, a kind person.  You did not judge who my son was. I know that you are a great person and a great mother, as you are a Mayor.  You were my son’s Guardian Angel that night, and I thank God for that.  Ms. Flores, you have a heart of gold and even more you never forget where you came from and do not judge others.  My son, Damien Diaz, thanks you!

 

Thank you with all my heart.

 

Juanita Diaz

 

 

 

Cm.  Galo stated that the 5K run held on July 5, 2000 for the Children’s Advocacy Center was a huge success.  He thanked all the participants and sponsors.

 

Invitations

 

Cm.  Agredano invited the public to attend the Fourth of July Program to be held at the City Cemetery at 9:00 a.m.  on July 4th .

 

Recognitions

 

Communiqués

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

 

a.  Appointment of Maria Eugenia Calderon by Mayor Pro Tempore Joe A. Guerra to the   

     Tree Board.

 

     Motion to approve.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Galo

     Second:  Cm.  Agredano

     For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

b.  Appointment of Juan Calderon and Carmen Ramirez by Council Member Johnny Amaya

     to the Redistricting Committee.

 

     Motion to approve.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Galo

     Second:  Cm.  Agredano

     For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

c.  Appointment by Council Member Louis H. Bruni of Blanca Nalaschi to the Laredo   

     Commission for Women and of Dr. Ramon Alaniz to the Redistricting Committee.

 

     Motion to approve.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

     Second:  Cm.  Galo

     For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

VII.     PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

1.  Public hearing  on the Sports and Community Venue Project ("The Laredo

     Entertainment Center") and the one-fourth of one percent sales and use tax and other

     matters relating thereto.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

                 Second:  Cm.  Bruni

                 For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Jesus Ponce stated that he would vote against the arena because Laredo has a long way to go before the equal distribution of funds is made available to the Laredo citizens.

 

Dr.  Michael Yoder, Professor TAMIU, stated he was opposed to the Entertainment Center for a number of reasons but wanted to share two of them. He stated that it was unfair to put the burden on the lower income people through a regressive sales tax.  The second objection is the suburban location out on the loop.  He requested for the Council to focus more on revitalizing the downtown as a catalyst for economic development. 

 

Richard Giessler asked the Council to repeal the ordinances pertaining to the Entertainment Center and form a citizens committee from all walks of life to create a better option for Laredoans.

 

Jaime Mendoza publicly apologized to the Council for any offense that may have been interpreted at the previous City Council meeting.  He read a list of many questions for the Council to answer.

 

Javier Molina, professional singer, stated he was in favor of a multi-purpose facility; however, he would vote no on August 12.  He added that the public needs more information on this project.  He stated that the public needs clear and detailed answers to certain specific questions that have never been brought up at the public hearings.

 

Cristy Swisher, from Swisher & Martin Realty, stated that large corporations are looking at the possibility of locating in Laredo.  However, they are looking for something more and greater.  She added that approval of the Entertainment Center would enhance the quality of life.  She remarked that Laredo is the front door to the economic future and we need to prepare for it. 

 

Art Trevino informed the Council that he has experienced countless promoters who have visited the radio stations to see if Laredo has the feasibility to have concerts by famous performers and the answer has always been no.  He stated that he is tired of traveling out of town for good entertainment. 

 

Jaime Flores, City Attorney, stated that the tax is a regressive tax.  However, it will not burden the poor.  He emphasized that the tax will affect the spender with the most disposable cash. It will not affect the spender’s purchase of groceries and medical.

    

Esther Firova, downtown business owner, stated that she was appalled at the citizens that are opposing the arena.  She added that a recent study discouraged downtown owners from investing in an outlet mall because the downtown area is not easily accessible to accommodate large crowds.

     

Hector Farias, Chairman of VIDA, expressed his concerns about the lack of input from the citizens.  He requested that the Council repeal the ordinance and allow the public to become better informed.

 

Mark Miller, SMG Senior Assistant General Manager, reported that he has twenty-five years of experience in the industry.  He said that SMG is the largest public assembly company in the world with over 100 facilities.   He assured the Council that SMG offers very significant operational policies and procedures.  He stated that when the facility opens there would not be a learning curve.  He added that SMG is excited about working with Arena Ventures because he feels that they are very aggressive in the market and will work diligently to assure that the Entertainment Center is a viable entity. 

    

    Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                 Second:  Cm.  Bruni

                 For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

2.  Public hearing to approve an amendment to the contract with the Texas Department of

Health and budget in the amount of $102,921.00 for the Nutrición Familiar / Family Nutrition Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning July 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001.      

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Approval of an amendment to the contract with the Texas Department of Health and budget in the amount of $102,921.00 for the Nutrición Familiar / Family Nutrition Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning July 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001; and increasing revenue line item 226-0000-323-4084 from $0 to $102,921.00, and increasing expenditure line item no. 226-6024 from $0 to $102,921.00.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

3.  Public hearing to approve a contract with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation

Commission (TNRCC) and budget in the amount of $60,000.00 to continue the operation of two continuous air monitoring stations (CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001.           

 

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Approval of a contract with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) and budget in the amount of $60,000.00 to continue the operation of two continuous air monitoring stations (CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2000 through August 31, 2001; and increasing revenue line item 226-0000-323-1103 from $0 to $60,000.00 and increasing expenditure line item no. 226-7215 from $0 to $60,000.00.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra  requested that staff report on the air quality from TNRCC.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

4.  Public hearing authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's FY 1999-

2000 Annual Budget in the amount of $18,528.00 for overtime expenses that are to be reimbursed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to fund the Laredo Border Region Violent Crime Task Force (LBRVCTF).  The Laredo Police Department will assign one Investigator and one Police Officer to the task force.  Reimbursement of overtime expenses to include the period of  October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000.  (Approval of Resolution 2000-R-096  needed before public hearing.)

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's FY 1999-2000 annual budget in the amount of $18,528.00 for overtime expenses that are to be reimbursed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to fund the Laredo Border Region Violent Crime Task Force (LBRVCTF).  The Laredo Police Department will assign one Investigator and one Police Officer to the task force.  Reimbursement of overtime expenses to include the period of October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

 

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

5.  Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's 1999-2000 Annual Budget in the amount

of $1,000.00 for a grant awarded to the Laredo Police Department's Litter Abatement Task Force from Target Great Land. This grant award does not require any matching funds from the City. (Approval of Resolution 2000-R-099 needed before public hearing.)

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Amending the City of Laredo's 1999-2000 Annual Budget in the amount of $1,000.00 for a grant awarded to the Laredo Police Department's Litter Abatement Task Force from Target Great Land. This grant award does not require any matching funds from the City.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:   8                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Galo

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

6.  Public hearing authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's 1999-2000

Annual Budget in the amount of $59,985.00 to fund the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant.  The Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division will be designating $53,986.00 and the City of Laredo will be designating $5,999.00 in matching funds.  Funding will be used to purchase computers, printers, and a data tracking system.   Grant period is from August 01, 2000 through July 31, 2001. (Approval of Resolution 2000-R-097  needed before public hearing.)

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's 1999-2000 Annual Budget in the amount of $59,985.00 to fund the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant.  The Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division will be designating $53,986.00 and the City of Laredo will be designating $5,999.00 in matching funds.  Funding will be used to purchase computers, printers, and a data tracking system.   Grant period is from August 01, 2000 through July 31, 2001.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

7.  Public hearing  authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a Second Budget  

Amendment to the Transit Operations Budget by appropriating additional State Funding of $329,640.00, thereby, increasing Transit State Funding Budget from $1,228,693.00 to $1,558,333.00 and decreasing the local match from the Transit Sales Tax Budget from $1,130,319.00 to $800,679.00.

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a Second Budget Amendment to the Transit Operations Budget by appropriating additional State Funding of $329,640.00, thereby, increasing Transit State Funding Budget from $1,228,693.00 to $1,558,333.00 and decreasing the local match from the Transit Sales Tax Budget from $1,130,319.00 to $800,679.00.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

8.  Public hearing amending the FY 1999-2000 Budget of the Laredo Municipal Transit

System transferring $325,725.00 from Fund 518, Sales Tax Revenues to Fund 558, Operations increasing the budget from $7,607,652.00 to $7,933,377.00.

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE

Amending the FY 1999-2000 Budget of the Laredo Municipal Transit System  

transferring $325,725.00 from Fund 518, Sales Tax Revenues to Fund 558, Operations increasing the budget from $7,607,652.00 to $7,933,377.00.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

VIII.    GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

 

9.  A.  Request by Council Member Louis H. Bruni

 

1.  Directing Staff and the Airport Advisory Committee to update the 1995 Airport

Land Use Master Plan and to bring the updated Master Plan to City Council for consideration.  The Airport Master Plan update is to analyze current land use trends and recommend future land uses, with possible action.

 

Jose Flores, Airport Director, reported this item was being presented to the Airport Advisory Board Committee.

 

Motion to direct staff and the Airport Advisory Committee to update the 1995 Airport Land Use Master Plan and bring the updated Master Plan to City Council for consideration.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm. Agredano

For:  8                                 Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

      B.  Request by Council Member John C. Galo

 

1.  Status report on the ongoing street recycling project.

 

Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, informed the Council that his department is working on Aldama and Guatomozin.   However, they are not complete.

 

Cm.  Galo stated that staff did a good job on Corpus Christi.  He was concerned about the utility patches on Aldama.   

 

2.  Discussion on code and ordinance enforcement in and around the Tex-Mex rail- 

     yard area, with possible action.

 

Benny Salinas, Building Director, informed the Council that his department is submitting citations to lessees and Tex-Mex.

 

Mayor Flores asked City Managers to put the rail crossings and a clean-up report on the next agenda. 

 

3.  Discussion on the maintenance of sidewalks, the identification of who's

     responsibility it is to maintain them and what is the City's liability, with possible

     action.

 

Benny Salinas informed the Council that there is an ordinance that states the adjacent property owner is responsible for maintaining the right-of-way between the property line and the curb. 

 

4.  Recommendation from staff to address the concerns that "BEST" has with "El

     Lift", with possible action.

 

Peter Behrman, General Manager, stated that El Lift carries a little over 200 persons a day.  He added that the only time they are denied a ride is if the notice is too short.  He said that the service cost is over a million dollars a year to the city. 

 

IX.       INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

 

10.  An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute a Lease

Agreement between the City of Laredo and Riverdrive Mall, Inc., for two blocks of vega land adjacent to the Rio Grande River for use as a parking lot located upon blocks number 08, and 08-A, situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas for a primary term of five (5) years, with two - five (5) year renewal options, at the monthly rental rate of $463.00 per month, for block number 08, and $430.00 per month for block number 08-A with annual Consumer Price Index (C.P.I.), increase adjustment.

 

                   Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

11.  An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute an amendment to

the 1978 Parking Lot Lease Agreement between the City of Laredo and Riverdrive Mall, Inc., due to the re-acquisition of the lease for block "Z", as authorized by Resolution No. 2000-R-066, and reducing the leased area from 3 blocks to blocks number "X" and "Y", situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, and reducing the Fair Market Rent by 1/3 to $200.00 per month.

           

                   Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

 

 

X.        FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES 

 

            Internet available:  //www.cityoflaredo.com

 

Motion to waive final reading of ordinances # 2000-O-162, ;# 2000-O-163, # 2000-O-165, # 2000-O-166, # 2000-O-167, # 2000-O-168, # 2000-O-169, # 2000-O-170, # 2000-O-171, # 2000-O-172 and # 2000-O-173.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

12.  2000-O-162  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for the use of a bus stop on Lot 10 and Lot 9 less E 4.44', Block 120, Western Division,

     located at 9191 San Bernardo Ave. (As amended)

                                        

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-162.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2000-O-163  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

     authorizing the issuance of a Conditional  Use Permit for the use of a

     daycare on the N1/3 of Lot 1 and S 1/3 of Lot 3, Block 552, Western

     Division, located at 2404 Main Ave. (As amended)

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-163.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 2000-O-165  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

     authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for mini storage  

     warehouse on Lot 1, Block 1, Lago Del Mar Subdivision, Unit II, located

     on the east side of Bartlett Ave. and south of Del Mar Blvd.  (As

     amended)

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-165.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

           

 2000-O-166  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

     authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for the use of a light

     mechanic shop on Lot 5 and N 1/2 of Lot 3, Block 254, Western Division,

     located at 1414 Santa Maria Ave. (As amended)

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-166.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

2000-O-167  Creating a Special Paving Permit, suspending platting and certain survey

requirements for a six (6) month period to allow for the paving of parking lots; providing for publication and effective date.

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-167.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 2000-O-168  Amending the Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration,

     Article I, In General, Section 2-3, Fees for City Services, Subsection (b)

     providing for charges for the duplication of EMS Activity Report

     Records; providing for severability and providing for an effective date

     and publication.

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-168.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2000-O-169  Amending Ordinance No. 91-O-246 to increase the fee from $1.00 to

                             $4.00 per person for the administration of immunization at the City of

     Laredo Health Department, and setting a maximum fee of $12.00 per

     family.

 

                                         Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-169.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                    2000-O-170  An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a Outgrant No.

     DTFA07-84-L-01097 between the United States of America, as Lessor,

     and the City of Laredo, as Lessee, for the purpose of leasing the Air

     Traffic Control Tower Building and its electronic equipment.  Lease term

     is for five (5) years commencing April 1, 2000, and ending on March 31,

     2005.  Rent shall be $1.00.

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-170.

 

 

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2000-O-171  An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with

Autophone of Laredo, Inc., for approximately 5,672 square feet constituting Building No. 962 located at 1816 Pappas Street.  Lease term is for 20 years commencing on October 1, 2000 and ending September 30, 2020.  New monthly rent shall be $3,403.00 and will be adjusted annually according to changes in the Consumer Price Index and further adjusted by Fair Market Rental Appraisal on the 10th anniversary.  Current monthly rent is $2,253.86.

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-171.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

       2000-O-172  An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease amendment

     to the lease agreement between the City of Laredo and Barker

     Aeromotive approved by Ordinance No. 91-O-097 dated May 6, 1991 for

     Hangar No. 1309 consisting of approximately 21,482 square feet of

     hangar and lobby space located at 4015 North Jarvis Avenue at the

     Laredo International Airport.  Said amendment extending the term of the

     lease agreement from twenty (20) years to twenty-nine (29) years ending

     on June 30, 2020 and may be extended for two (2) terms of five (5) years,

     ending on June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2030, respectively.  Monthly rental

     shall be adjusted based on changes in the Consumer Price Index and the

     rental obligation shall be further adjusted based on Fair Market Appraisal

     at each ten-year anniversary.

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-172.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 2000-O-173  An ordinance granting a Transitting License to Williams

     Communications, Inc. d/b/a Vyvx, Inc. (in the State of Texas), 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 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.

 

     Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-173.

 

 

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                         Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                         For:  8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XI.       RESOLUTIONS

 

13.  2000-R-094  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept as a donation from

the Union Pacific Railroad Police Department, a white male shepherd mix canine to be trained and used by the Laredo Police Department for law enforcement purposes.  The K-9 is strictly a donation and will be at no cost to the City.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-094.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                        Second:  Cm.  Galo

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

14.  2000-R-095  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit to the United States

Foreign-Trade Zones Board an application for a temporary boundary modification on behalf of Transmaritime, Inc., requesting a transfer of Foreign-Trade Zone designation status from the Laredo International Airport known as Site No. 1 to the Transmaritime, Inc., facility to be designated as Site No. 8.  The temporary boundary modification, if approved by the Foreign-Trade Zones Board, will transfer Foreign-Trade Zone status (designation only) of three (3) acres from the Laredo International Airport, Site No. 1 to the Transmaritime, Inc., facility located at the Interamerica Industrial Park.

 

Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-095 with amendment from three 

(3) acres to one (1) acre.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                        Second:  Cm.  Galo

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

15.  2000-R-096  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept reimbursement in the

amount of $18,528.00 for overtime expenses from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to fund the Laredo Border Region Violent Crime Task Force (LBRVCTF).  The Laredo Police Department will assign one Investigator and one Police Officer to the task force.  Reimbursement of overtime expenses include the period of October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-096.

 

 

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                                        Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

16.  2000-R-097  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant from the

Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division in the amount of $53,986.00 to fund the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant.  The Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division will be designating $53,986.00 and the City of Laredo will be designating $5,999.00 in matching funds for a total of $59,985.00 to fund the project.  Funding will also be used to purchase computers, printers, and a data tracking system.  Grant period is from August 01, 2000 through July 31, 2001.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-097.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                                        Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

17.  2000-R-098  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application

and acceptance of the grant (AIP Grant Project No. 3-48-0136-26-00) from the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program in the amount of $849,845.00 for the purpose of rehabilitating a portion of Runway 17R/35L and to acquire a parcel of land located adjacent to the Airport's south property line and along Saunders Street (Hwy 59) for the purpose of expanding the Runway Protection Zone (RPZ) to Runway 35L.  The City's ten (10%)  percent local match for this project in the amount of $94,428.00 is available in the Airport Land Reimbursement.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-098.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                                        Second:  Cm.  Galo

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

18.  2000-R-099  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to accept a $1,000.00 grant

from Target Great Land. The money will be used to purchase equipment for the Laredo Police Department's Litter Abatement Task Force. This is strictly a donation and there are no matching funds required from the City.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2000-R-099.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                                        Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                                        For:  8                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XII.     MOTIONS

 

19.  Consideration to award a contract to the SOLE PROVIDER, Litho Business Forms,

Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $22,809.60, for the purchase of bridge fare coupons.  This will be the last order of bridge fare coupons as the Bridge System converts users to the new toll system.  Funding for these coupons is available in the Bridge Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

20.  Consideration to award contract number 00-113B, to the LOW BIDDERS, C & G

Wholesale, Dallas, Texas, in the amount of $9,614.00, and G.T. Distributors, Inc., Austin, Texas, in the amount of $23,558.70, for the purchase of duty and practice ammunition for the Police Department.  Bids were requested on the following ammunition types: .45 ACP, 40 cal., 9mm, .38 special, and .223 cal.  Funding is available in the Police Department Budget.

           

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

21.  Consideration to amend and extend the annual supply contract number 99-038 awarded

to Libcon, Inc. DBA Leyendecker Materials, Laredo, Texas, to include the purchase of asphalt needed for the Cutler Street Recycling Project through July 31, 2000.   The original contract award was for an estimated amount of $989,000.00 for the purchase of asphalt, black base, and gravel, as required for all city paving and construction projects.   

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

22.  Consideration to approve Amendment No. 4, an increase of $10,301.00, to the contract

with Naismith Engineering, Inc., Laredo and Corpus Christi, Texas, for the purpose of complying with Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) directive to prepare a workplan for the installation of three (3) monitoring wells at the Airport's emergency power generator site and authorizing the City Manager to execute said Change Order No. 4.  This expense is eligible for TNRCC reimbursement, subject to a deductible.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

23.  Consideration to award a contract to the SOLE SOURCE SUPPLIER Duncan

Industries, Harrison, Arkansas, in the amount of $42,500.00 for the purchase of 340 Eagle Model "F/CR" Electronic Parking Meter Timer Mechanisms.  These electronic mechanisms will replace the remaining old mechanical mechanisms, maintain more accurate timing, and significantly reduce maintenance repairs.  Funding is available in the Parking Meters Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

24.  Consideration to accept the Cruz Baseball Field Lighting Improvements Project and

approval of final payment in the amount of $47,560.00 to Cantu Electric, Inc., Laredo, Texas.  Funding is available from Community Development Block Grant Funds - 25th Action Year.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

25.  Consideration to authorize the purchase of surplus traffic signal components in the

amount of $24,375.00, from the City of Dallas, Texas.  The City of Dallas requested sealed bids for the sale of surplus equipment and the Traffic Department submitted a bid for some of the cabinets, controllers, and conflict monitors that could be used to replace and upgrade some of the older traffic signal equipment.  Funding is available from 1998 C.O. Bond proceeds.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

26.  Consideration to award contract number FY00-110, to the SOLE BIDDER, Holmes

and Shaw, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, in the estimated amount of $14,091.50, for services to print and mail the 2000 tax statements and tax rolls.   The contract vendor is provided the tax statement data in electronic format and they are responsible for preparing the mail addresses with the ZIP + 4 format in order to qualify for postage savings.  The tax statements are then mailed by the contract vendor with a return envelope.  Approximately 70,000 tax statements are mailed to land owners and 20,000 duplicate tax statements are mailed to mortgage companies.  The total contract pricing is approximately 20% less than the previous year.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

 

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

27.  Consideration for acceptance of the Laredo International Airport Passenger Terminal

and Related Airside/Landside Improvements Phase "B" and approval of final payment in the amount of $47,707.50 for the completion tower airfield lighting control panel to H.B. Zachry Company, San Antonio, Texas.  Final contract amount is $11,054,714.50.  Funding is available in the New Airport Terminal FAA Grant, Grant #17 - Retainage Payable.

 

Motion to approve.

           

       Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

28.  Consideration to approve amendment no. 1 an increase of $37,243.75 to the

engineering contract with Sepulveda Associates Architects, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for additional engineering services to the City of Laredo Service Center (EDA Project No. 08-01-03159).  Funding is available in the EDA/DPW Infrastructure Project, Engineer Fees.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Agredano

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                                    Cm.  J.  Valdez

 

29.  Consideration to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder Pete Gallegos  

Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas in the amount of $174,800.00 for the CDBG Sidewalks Project No. 11-A (28 Blocks).  Funding is available in the Community Development 23rd Action Year - CD Projects/Sidewalks.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

30.  Consideration to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder J. Solis

Maintenance of Welding Service, Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $169,453.00 for the CDBG Sidewalks Project No. 11-B (25 Blocks).  Funding is available in the Community Development Budget; 23rd Action Year, 24th Action Year, and 25th Action Year - CD Projects/Sidewalks.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

31.  Consideration to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder Cherokee Bridge &

Road, Junction, Texas, in the amount of $181,498.10 for the CDBG Sidewalks Project No. 11-C (26 Blocks).  Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Project - District/Sidewalks - Community Development Budget 20th Action Year - 21st Action Year and 23rd Action Year CD Projects/Sidewalks.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

32.  Consideration to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder Pete Gallegos

Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $159,700.00 for the CDBG Sidewalks Project No. 11-D (28 Blocks).  Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Project - District 4/Sidewalks - Community Development Budget 25th Action Year - CD Projects/School Sidewalks.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

33.  Consideration to award a construction contract to the LOWEST BIDDER Ramos

Industries, Inc., Pasadena, Texas, in the amount of $564,221.50 for the McPherson Acres Subdivision Drainage Improvements Phase I and approval of change order no. 1 to delete item no. 2 excavation in the amount of $9,600.00 for net award of $554,621.50.  Funding is available in the 1998 CO Issue McPherson Acres Drainage Improvements.  

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

34.  Consideration to approve change order no. 11, an increase of $144,030.00 to the

construction contract with MW Builders, Inc., Temple, Texas, contractors for the Border Facilities for the World Trade Bridge to add load cells to the truck scale; add fencing to enhance security during construction; add gates at U.S. End of Bridge to close bridge during non-operational hours; modify handrail at Federal Adm. Bldg. To comply with T.D.L.R.; and silt fencing, and seeding under Bridge, and construct defined outfall channel with concrete and seeding for erosion control; and add guard rail at strategic locations along outside of roadway curves to protect light poles.  Funding is available in the 4th Bridge - Tax Exempt and Taxable Bonds - Improvements Other Than Buildings.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

35.  Consideration to approve change order no. 12, an increase of $317,638.00 to the

construction contract with MW Builders, Inc., Temple, Texas, contractors for the Border Facilities for the World Trade Bridge to compensate the contractor for the remaining 17 days of "Incentive Pay" which he was prevented from earning due to work added to the contract through change order nos. 2-9, and for the mitigation activities brought about by the delays encountered due to various utilities not being relocated in a timely manner.  Funding is available in the 4th Bridge - Tax Exempt Bonds - Improvements Other Than Buildings.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                   Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

36.  Consideration for approval of change order no. 2 for an increase amount of $6,020.60

for proposed 12" water line along Calton Road and to add 10 working days to the construction contract time with Ramos Industries, Inc., Pasadena, Texas, for the Calton Road Widening Project at the Public Library and the McPherson Road Widening Project from Calton Road to the Culvert Drainage Channel at Cotulla's Restaurant.  Funding is available in the Calton Road Widening Project.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                   Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

37.  Consideration to approve a contract with Cantu Electrical Co., Inc., Laredo, Texas, to

perform emergency concrete repair work at the Colombia Solidarity Bridge for an amount of $25,200.36.  Funding is available in the Bridge Fund.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                   Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

38.  Consideration to authorize the City Manager to issue a Letter of Intent to partner with

the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to undertake an Ecosystem Restoration Project at the bend of the Rio Grande River in Southwest Laredo.  Execution of a financially binding, Project Cooperation Agreement would later follow, subject to the findings of a feasibility study and the assurance that the City's bird habitat would not be negatively impacted as a result of the proposed improvements. The total estimated project cost is approximately $3,080,626 that would be cost-shared 65% federal ($2,002,407) and 35% non-federal in cash and in-kind ($1,078,219). 

 

       Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Galo

                   Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XIII.    STAFF REPORT

 

39.  Consideration to accept a free of charge Firework Show/Demonstration by Atlas

Enterprises.  The display is programmed for July 15, 2000, after the regularly scheduled Tecolote game at Veteran's Field.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Galo

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

40.  Status report on the construction progress of the Unitec Industrial Park Railroad

       Overpass Project (Economic Development Administration Project #01-08-03264).

 

Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, informed the Council that the project is divided into two sections.  He stated that the first section is 70% complete and will be finished in July.  He added that the second phase will begin in July and will be completed by March 2001. 

 

41.  Status report on the extension of Bartlett Avenue between the 3500 Block and

Southgate Boulevard, and the paving of Ejido Avenue between Gates Street and Loop 20.

 

Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development, stated that the project is still under negotiations and will be presented to the Council at a later date.

 

42.  Status report by the Administrative Services Director regarding applications received

       for the position of City Manager.

 

Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, stated that the department has received 12 resumes and 8 applications. 

 

XIV.    RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD

 

            Motion to adjourn as City Council and reconvene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board.

 

           

Moved:  Cm. Galo

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:  8                                      Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

43.  2000-RT-001  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to notify the Texas

Department of Transportation of its intent to apply for Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Funds, in the approximate amount of $3,502,309.00.

 

                                           Motion to approve # 2000-RT-001.

 

                                           Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Guerra

                                           Second:  Cm.  E.  Valdez

                                           For:  8                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XVI.    ADJOURN AS MASS TRANSIT AND RECONVENE AS CITY COUNCIL

 

            Motion to adjourn as Mass Transit Board and reconvene as City Council.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Galo

            Second:  Cm.  Agredano

            For:  8                                      Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XVII.   ADJOURNMENT

 

            Motion to adjourn.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Galo

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:  8                                      Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 and 22 are true, complete and correct proceedings of the City Council Meeting held on the 3rd day of July, 2000.

 

                                                                                                                                                           

______________________________________

                                                                        Gustavo Guevara, Jr.

                                                                        City Secretary