CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2000-R-32
PLANNING AND ZONING AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
NOVEMBER 27, 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
Louis H. Bruni, Council
Member, District II
John C. Galo, Council
Member, District III
Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V
Joe A. Guerra, Mayor
Pro Tempore, District VI
Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District VII
Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary
Larry Dovalina, City Manager
Cynthia Collazo, Assistant
City Manager
Jerry Bruce Cain, Assistant
City Attorney
Motion to excuse Cm. Agredano.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. MINUTES
None. p
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
Mayor Flores publicly announced the
projects summary for FY00 from the Engineering Department as follows:
212 projects are presently under construction resulting in $128
million incurred for projects
that have been constructed or are under construction
1,167 blocks were paved for a total of 66 miles
647 blocks of sidewalks were completed for a total of 40 miles
703,800 linear feet of curb and gutter were placed for a total of
133 miles
68,034 tons of asphalt were placed for a total of 2,720 truck
loads
52,020 of cubic yards of concrete were used for a total of 5,780
truck loads
133 letters of credit were checked totaling $30 million for
construction projects
$43 million in private development has been initiated
1,968 acres were developed as subdivisions
2,574 lots were developed for construction
150,974 feet of sanitary sewer lines were placed for a total of 28
miles
120,632 feet of water main lines placed for a total of 22 miles
66,205 linear feet of storm sewer lines placed for a total of 12
miles
2,182 street cut permits were issued for a total of 102,000
166 subdivisions constructed
Mayor Flores announced that Mr. Frank Leach, former director of
the Laredo Development Foundation, passed away this morning and requested a
moment of silence in his memory.
Cm. Bruni submitted a Rain Enhancement
Report from the Southwest Texas Rain Enhancement Association for seeding flight
activity for October, 2000, along with minutes of the October 10, 2000 SWTREA
Board meeting. He mentioned that the
association has suspended the project for the rest of this year being that
November, December, and January have only one seedable rain event. They will resume the program on February 1,
2001. A detailed report is available at
the City Secretary’s Office for public review.
Cm.
Amaya publicly thanked the businesses that contributed to his first Annual
Turkey Give-Away to benefit the low income families and senior
citizens of District IV.
He
also thanked the Laredo Housing Authority Director Abraham Rodriguez, Jr. and
Administrative Assistant Mrs. Romy Dovalina for their assistance in
facilitating this event. He further
thanked the volunteers Aurora Rendon, Manuel Reyna, Francisco Llanes, Gilberto
Mancha, Rogelio Rodriguez, Pete Ramirez, and Lily Perez for their assistance.
Cm.
Jose A. Valdez, Jr. thanked Mrs. Gloria Sanchez Webber of Hamilton Trophies for
inviting him to be the starter at this year’s Guajolote 10K Run. He also thanked the Parks & Recreation
Department director and staff for their assistance in coordinating the
Recreation Center Thanksgiving holiday feast.
Invitations
Mayor Flores invited the public to attend the Christmas Tree
Lighting ceremony scheduled for Friday, December 1, 2000, at 7:00 p.m. at the
Laredo Center for the Arts. She
mentioned that there would be entertainment for the whole family.
Recognitions
a. Recognizing "The
Best Little Blood Drive on the Border." The City of Laredo and Webb
County came together to donate 315 pints of blood. These donations have the ability to help as
many as 1260 people as per the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center. The winner of this year's blood drive is the
City of Laredo with 184 pints of blood. Webb County donated 131 pints of blood.
There were a total of 42 people who registered to become bone marrow donors.
Congratulations City of Laredo and Webb County.
Dan
Migura, Administrative Services Department Director, provided some
statistics. He stated that this is a
joint initiative of Webb County and the City of Laredo and, in combination, are
one of the top contributors in the area as a result of this event. The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center was
able to collect 315 pints of blood between the county and the city. The City gained a four percent rise over
last year’s contribution. The number of
bone marrow donors also increased from 112 to 154 donors for this year. He mentioned that the Center expects to
assist approximately 1,260 people with these contributions.
Communiqués
Ron Whitehawk, speaking on behalf of the Hotel Operations Company,
Inc., read a letter on an appeal from a denial of a zoning designation on a
13.6-acre tract.
Dear Council Member Guerra:
On behalf of Hotel Operations Company, Inc., I would strongly
protest the Planning Department Director not placing the above-referenced
appeal before the City Council at tonight’s City Council meeting. This case was heard by the Planning and
Zoning Commission on November 2, 2000, and recommended for denial by the
Planning and Zoning Commission. An
appeal letter to the City Council was received by the Planning and Zoning
Department on November 7, 2000. Said
appeal letter should automatically have qualified our right to be heard this
evening. Instead, the Planning and
Zoning Department tried to reach me last Wednesday afternoon after having had
the appeal letter for 14 days to advise me that the rezoning case would not be
heard as per the schedule laid out in the appeal letter itself.
Planning and Zoning Department personnel advised me this morning
that the Planning and Zoning Department Director decided to not place this
zoning appeal before the City Council since it represented a substantial change
from the original rezoning application.
It does not seem to matter that the substantial change is going from
13.5 acres to a 4-acre rezoning change.
To my knowledge, in the past a reduction in area or a reduction in
zoning intensity was allowed to be presented to the City Council upon appeal
and decided by the City Council. I
strongly object to the Planning and Zoning Department Director taking it upon
himself to not place this before the City Council in a timely manner. If he had reasons to object to the reduction
in rezone area, he could have and should have presented them to the City
Council at tonight’s meeting and allowed the City Council to decide upon the
appropriate course of action. A real
estate closing was originally scheduled for mid-December and the possible
construction of a hospital is pending the City Council’s decision. There are good and practical reasons to
protest the Planning and Zoning Department Director’s decision and action in
this matter. On behalf of Hotel
Operations Company, Inc., I would like to ask you and the City Council to
instruct the Planning and Zoning Department Director to perform his ministerial
duty and place the applicant’s appeal before the City Council at your meeting
of December 4, 2000, so that said appeal can be heard by the proper governing
legal authority.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
a. Appointment by Council
Member John C. Galo of Victor Sauceda and Ricardo Hinojosa,
Jr. to the
Redistricting Committee.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Bruni
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing
concerning an application by Lauro and Olga Villareal amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 4 and
the W1/2 of Lot 5, Block 1394, Eastern Division, located at 2417 Kearney St.,
from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential
District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended denial of the proposed zone change. This is an appeal from an unfavorable
recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 4 and the
W1/2 of Lot 5, Block 1394, Eastern Division, located at 2417
Kearney St., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family
Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning and Zoning Director, stated that this item
came before the City Council on September 25, 2000, for consideration of an R-3
designation. At that time, the applicant
discussed the notion of attaching the unit as a duplex which would, therefore,
convert it to an R-2 designation. The
City Council, at that time, requested for this item to go back before the
Planning and Zoning Commission for its recommendation on the R-2 application.
Mrs. Olga Villarreal, petitioner, requested an R-2 zoning
designation for construction of a dwelling adjacent to the existing
property.
Motion to close the public hearing, override Planning and Zoning,
and approve the zone change and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
2. Public hearing
concerning an application by Lewis and Elaine Calk, amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 110.003
acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east of Ejido Ave. and
north of Eistetter Rd. (Wormser Rd.),
from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced
Area District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 110.003 acres,
as further described by metes and bounds, located east of Ejido
Ave. and north of Eistetter Rd.
(Wormser Rd.), from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-1A
(Single Family Reduced Area District).
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed
zone change; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
3. Public hearing
concerning an application by Killam Oil Company amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 56.4870 acres,
as further described by metes and bounds, located on the northwest corner of
Bob Bullock Lp. and Clark Blvd., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District)
to B-3 (Community Business District).
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed
zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 56.4870 acres,
as further described by metes and bounds, located on the northwest
corner of Bob Bullock Lp. and Clark Blvd., from R-1 (Single Family Residential
District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
4. Public hearing
concerning an application by B. B. Loop - 20 Property, Ltd. amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 28.916
acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east of Bob Bullock
Lp. and north of Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District)
to B-4 (Highway Commerical District).
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed
zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 28.916 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east
of Bob Bullock Lp. and north of Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Richard Haynes, developer, requested approval of the zoning
designation change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
5. Public hearing
concerning an application by B. B. Loop - 20 Property, Ltd. amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 8.084
acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located west of Bob Bullock
Lp. and north of Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District)
to B-1 (Limited Commercial District).
This item was presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission as a 31.931
acre tract, from R-1 to B-4. The Commission
recommended approval of a B-1 zone on this 8.084 acre tract.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 8.084 acres,
as further described by
metes and bounds, located west of Bob Bullock Lp. and north of
Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to
B-1 (Limited Commercial District);
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
6. Public hearing
concerning an application by B. B. Loop - 20 Property Ltd. amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 23.847
acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located west of Bob Bullock
Lp. and north of Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District)
to B-4 (Highway Commercial District).
This item was presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission as a
31.931 acre tract, from R-1 to B-4. The
Commission recommended approval of a B-4 zone on this 23.847 acre tract.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 23.847 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located west
of Bob Bullock Lp. and north of Maria Luisa Dr., from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing, concur with Planning and
Zoning with a B-4 zoning designation on Lot Number Six (6), and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
7. Public hearing
concerning an application by Lakeside Subdivision, L.L.C., amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 73.0759
acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east of Bob Bullock
Lp. and south of Lakeview Blvd., from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1 (Single
Family Residential District). The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed zone
change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 73.0759 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east
of Bob Bullock Lp. and south of Lakeview Blvd., from AG (Agricultural District)
to R-1 (Single Family Residential District); providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
8. Public hearing
concerning an application by the Webb County Correctional Center
Public Facility Corp. amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1, Block 1, Webb County Detention Center Plat,
located north of the City of Rio Bravo and west of South Highway 83, from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended denial of the proposed zone change and recommended approval
of a Conditional Use Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 1, Block 1, Webb County Detention Center Plat, located north of
the City of Rio Bravo and west of S. Hwy. 83, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Alfonso Garza and John Salazar representing WSBC Civil Engineers
inquired as to the restrictions imposed on the site.
Keith Selman, Planning and Zoning Department Director, reported as
follows:
1) the conditional use
permit shall be limited to the correctional facility only;
2) the conditional use
permit shall be issued to the Webb County Correctional Center
Facility Corporation;
and
3) the conditional use
permit shall not be transferable.
Motion to close the public hearing approving a conditional use
permit for the proposed use and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
9. Public hearing
concerning an application by John S. Jacaman Cattle Company, Ltd.
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 22.84 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east of
Sinatra Parkway and west of Bob Bullock Lp., from M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District) and R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District). The Planning and
Zoning Commission recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 22.84 acres, as further described by metes and bounds, located east of
Sinatra Parkway and west of Bob Bullock Lp., from M-1 (Light Manufacturing
District) and R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Sherfey Engineering, recommended
approval on the proposed zoning designation for commercial use (multi-purpose
area).
Cm. Bruni inquired whether the City of Laredo has received a
commitment from the Jacaman family to secure the necessary right-of-way to
increase the width of the street.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, mentioned that the City of Laredo
has received approval on all of the tract of land, with the exception of the
one piece of property that was sold, from the owner. He is anticipating getting the other owner’s approval on that
particular tract which will secure the additional footage needed by the city.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
10.
Public hearing concerning an application by Enedina Carmona amending the
Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 5, Block 1693, Eastern Division,
located at 2820 Clark
Blvd., from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited
Business
District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended denial of the
proposed zone
change. This is an appeal from an
unfavorable recommendation by the
Planning and Zoning
Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 5, Block 1693, Eastern Division, located at 2820 Clark Blvd., from
R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Business District); providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning and Zoning Department Director, reported
that there is an update to the communication.
There is a petition with 42 signatures in favor of the proposed zone
change. His department checked the petition
against the mail-out notices and there were 8 individuals in that petition that
were within the 200-foot mail-out.
Enedina Carmona, petitioner, requested the zone change approval in
order to set up a day care facility.
Diana Carmona spoke in favor of the zone change request.
Denisha Rodriguez spoke in support of the zone change request.
Eloy Rodriguez, owner of the property, requested approval of the
zone change designation. He stated that
he favors the regulations imposed on facilities to provide qualified child care
in the community. His wife, who is a
speech therapist, will be providing this type of service at the facility once
it opens.
Laura Vaughn requested approval of the zoning designation
change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a conditional
use permit specifically for use as a child day care facility.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Bruni
11.
Public hearing concerning an application by Fernando Sada Quiroz
amending the Zoning
Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Special Use
Permit for
mini-storage warehouses on Lots 7, 8, 9, and 10, Block 431, Eastern Division,
located at 202 W. Saunders St. The current zoning for this site is B-3
(Community
Business
District). The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommended approval of the
proposed Special Use
Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for mini-storage warehouses on
Lots 7, 8, 9, and 10, Block 431, Eastern Division, located at 202 W. Saunders
St.; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Jesus Romero, of J. Romero Construction, was in agreement to
secure a special use permit from City Council.
Motion to close the public hearing and approve as a Special Use
Permit.
Moved: Cm. E.
Valdez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. E. Valdez
12.
Public hearing concerning an application by Riata Minerals, Ltd., a Texas
Limited
Partnership,
amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
1.03 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds, being a part of Lot 1, Block 1,
Twiss Subdivision,
located east of Santa Maria Ave. and north of Casa de Palmas
Subdivision, from
M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
District). The Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended approval of the
proposed zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning
1.03 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds, being a part of Lot 1,
Block 1, Twiss Subdivision, located east of Santa Maria Ave. and north of Casa
de Palmas Subdivision, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-4 (Highway
Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Sherfey Engineering, spoke in favor of
the zone designation change. He
mentioned that part of the property is currently split zoned, and the plat
requires that the lot be unified and come under one zoning designation.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. J.
Valdez
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez
13.
Individual public hearings for the voluntary annexation of five (5)
tracts of land (Tract 1:
Dolores Ranch Tract -
169.195 acres, more or less; Tract 2: Killam Industrial Tract –
207.4636 acres, more
or less; Tract 3: Killam Ponderosa Tract - 194.8842 acres, more
ore less; Tract 4:
Hurd Tract - 124.6586 acres, more or less; Tract 5: Treviño Tract –
1.971 acres, more or
less) totaling 698.1724 acres, more or less, and the unilateral
annexation of three
(3) tracts of land (Tract 6: Tex-Mex Railway Tract - 228.6075 acres,
more or less; Tract 7: Mines Road Tract - 14.817 acres,
more or less; Tract 8: Wormser
Road Tract – 5.9861 acres, more or less) totaling
249.4106 acres, more or less, for a
total of 947.583
acres, as described in the tract summaries as required by Section 43.063
of the Texas Local Government Code.
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 1.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 1.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 2.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes to the fire protection and emergency medical services
which will be provided by Fire Station #10.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 2.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 3.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes to the fire protection and emergency medical services
which will be provided by Fire Station #11.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 3.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 4.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes to the fire protection and emergency medical services
which will be provided by Fire Station #9.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 4.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 5.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes to the fire protection and emergency medical services
which will be provided by Fire Station #11.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 5.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 6.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan.
Pete Saenz, Jr., attorney for the Texas-Mexican Railway Company,
Arturo Dominguez, and Ron Whitehawk spoke against the proposed annexation. The reasons they were in opposition are as
follows:
§
The Tex-Mex
Railway Company should not be annexed because there is no major corridor or
highway coming in or out of the city at that location and the annexation is not
necessary to protect the entrance to the city.
§
The tract is
not located in a place where it would adversely impact any surrounding
developments. It adjoins the city’s
landfill -- everything else in the immediate area is completely vacant and
undeveloped.
§
Texas-Mexican
Railway Company foresees that there could be a significant adverse economic
impact to Tex-Mex if they are required to comply with the city’s commercial
parking ordinance for trailer parking.
There are currently 65 acres of trailer parking that Tex-Mex uses as
part of its own development.
Mayor Flores replied that their comments in opposition to the
proposed annexation are duly noted, but that the Tex-Mex Railway Company has
not been very accommodating when the City of Laredo has requested their
cooperation in the past.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 6.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 7.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Laredo Sand & Gravel, stated that
they are not in opposition to being annexed, but would like to recommend to the
Planning and Zoning Commission that the initial zoning designation be approved
as an M-1. The applicant would like to
state to the City Council is that it is an existing concrete batching
plant. The owner is aware that his
business can come in as a legal non-conforming use business. However, it would be more logical to allow
him to come in under an M-1 (Special Use Permit) designation so that the owner
can legally come in and not have to go back to request approval for a Special
Use Permit at a later date.
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes
to the fire protection and emergency medical services which will
be provided by Fire Station #9.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 7.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to open the public hearing for Tract 8.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, City Planner, publicly described the proposed
service plan with changes to the fire protection and emergency medical services
which will be provided by Fire Station #2.
Motion to close the public hearing for Tract 8.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14.
Public hearing adopting the Speed Hump Installation Policy of the City
of Laredo which
establishes procedures and priorities for the Speed Hump Installation,
removal,
alteration, location, eligibility requirements and cost sharing
criteria; providing for
publication and effective date.
(As Amended)
FINAL READING OF ORDINANCE 2000-O-295
Adopting the Speed Hump Installation Policy of the City of Laredo,
which establishes procedures and priorities for the Speed Hump Installation,
removal, alteration, location, eligibility requirements and cost sharing
criteria; providing for publication and effective date. (As Amended)
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and adopt Ordinance
#2000-O-295.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS
15. A. Request by Council Member Louis H. Bruni
1. Status report on the construction of Highway 359, with possible
action. (Co-
sponsored by Council
Member Alfredo Agredano)
Keith Selman, Planning and Zoning Department Director, stated that
there had been a utilities problem that had held up the construction
project. That problem has finally been
resolved and the project is now moving forward. He stated that the project is now 76% complete and the contractor
is currently scheduling his hot mix and overlay crew and have set a completion
date for mid-January.
2.
Status report on the Eastwood Park, with possible action.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that
they received the Request for
Qualifications on November 20,
2000. They will have a recommendation
for this
project for the second meeting in
December.
Cm.
Bruni inquired what the timeline would be for this project once they receive
funding approval from City Council.
Rogelio
Rivera replied that there would be a contract in place by January, 2001, and
the project would be initiated immediately thereafter.
B. Request by Council Member John C. Galo
1.
Status report on all ordinance violations by Tex-Mex Railroad, with
possible
action.
Larry Dovalina, City
Manager, reported that a meeting was held earlier with
representatives from
Tex-Mex Railway to address some of the
City’s concerns.
He stated that they have
received copies of all the violations that are pending
before the court that have
not yet been resolved. There are at
least five different
citations involving
unimproved parking lots currently in use.
There is also one
citation concerning a nuisance violation. There was discussion on these issues as to
how they could correct some of these violations to the satisfaction of the
City.
Mr. Pete Saenz, Jr. attorney for Tex- Mex Railway, stated that his
solid recommendation to management will be to work these issues out with the
City. He will do the best he can to
persuade management to respond readily and responsibly to these concerns that
the City has raised. He proposed that
the city staff might want to consider scheduling a meeting with Tex-Mex Railway
and in that way obtain a firm commitment from the General Manager to work
jointly with the City of Laredo to resolve these concerns.
Mayor
Flores inquired as to the type of feedback that local management is confronted
with from the corporate office when they are presented with problems that are
beyond local management’s control.
Arturo Dominguez replied that they are very concerned about these
problems. He mentioned that the executives that make these decisions for the
local office are operating much bigger railroads besides the local Tex-Mex rail
line. He further stated that they do
recognize that the local problems are legitimate problems. Unfortunately, in the corporate world tasks
do not get accomplished as promptly as they would if decisions were assumed by
local management. Mr. Dominguez
mentioned that he would convey the local office’s commitment to come up with an
acceptable solution for everyone.
Mayor Flores replied that the City Council would appreciate his
efforts in facilitating a meeting with the corporate office in order to secure
a steadfast commitment from the Texas-Mexican Railway that these concerns will
be given top priority.
Cm. Galo suggested that they consider having the Rail Committee
meet with these corporate representatives as well in order to sustain a
continuing dialogue with both railway companies and work on getting some of the
problems worked out faster.
Cm. Bruni stated that his concerns revolve around the issue of
obtaining rights-of way from Tex-Mex Railway in the vicinity of Arkansas Ave.
and Saunders St. to allow the City to facilitate the traffic flow in the area.
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
None.
X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES
Internet Availability: http://wwwcityoflaredo.com
Motion to waive the final readings of ordinances 2000-O-281,
2000-O-284, 2000-O-285, 2000-O-286, 2000-O-288, 2000-O-289, 2000-O-290,
2000-O-291, 2000-O-292, 2000-O-293 and 2000-O-294.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 2000-O-281 Amending
the City of Laredo FY 2000-2001 General Fund Budget by
creating seven (7) new firefighters positions to the EMS Division
at Fire Station No. 11 located on Highway 359, as authorized by the City
Council to be effective upon adoption; and increasing estimated revenues and
expenditures of $106,551.00 in said budget.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-281.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-284 Amending the City of
Laredo FY 2000/2001 Public Works budget to
recognize additional revenues from a grant received from the South
Texas Development Council (STDC) in the amount of $40,348.00 for the purpose of
constructing the Citizen's Convenience Center of the City of Laredo Public
Works Department and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget
amendment; providing for an effective date.
(City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-284.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-285 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2000-2001 budget in the amount of
$153,470.00 for the HIV/AIDS Prevention Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning January 1, 2001, through
December 31, 2001. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-285.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-286 Amending the FY
2000-2001 budget by transferring the amount of
$44,701.00 from the FY
1999/2000 fund balance to the current FY
2000/2001 budget for the
Maternal and Child Health (MCH - Title V)
Program of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period of
September 1, 2000,
through August 31, 2001. (City Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-286.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-288 Amending the FY
2000-2001 Budget by increasing revenues in the amount
of $157,329.00 and increasing expenditures in the amount of
$157,118.00 for the FAR Part 150 Airport Noise Abatement Compatibility Program.
(Council Member Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-288.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-289 Establish
rental rates based on 8.5% (percent) of the appraised value of
each home, establish a
rent deposit equivalent to one (1) month's rent and
establish a late fee of
$5.00 per day after the 10th day of each month for
the homes purchased by the
City of Laredo under the FAR Part 150
Airport Noise
Compatibility Program and to be leased by Laredo
Municipal Housing
Corporation (LMHC). (Council Member
Louis H.
Bruni)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-289.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-290 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute an amendment
to the License authorized by Ordinance No. 97-O-303 dated December
15, 1997 with
In-Ter-Space Services, Inc. d/b/a Interspace Airport
Advertising and Display,
as Concessionaire, to allow Concessionaire
additional advertising
spaces as well as extend the primary term. The
proposed amendment will
extend the primary term from five (5) years to
seven (7) years and
three (3) months ending on October 31, 2005 instead of
July 31, 2003 and
increase the number of advertising locations by nine (9)
at the Laredo
International Airport; all other terms and conditions remain
unchanged and in effect;
providing for an effective date. (City
Council)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-290.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-291 An ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease renewal with
Pinkerton for two office
spaces totaling approximately 500 square feet and
located at the
International Bridges I & II.
1. Lease term is for one
(1) year commencing on November 1, 2000
and ending on October
31, 2001.
2.
Monthly rent will be $2,000.00 for both properties.
3. City of Laredo may
terminate this lease within ninety (90) days of
written notice.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-291.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-292 An ordinance amending Ordinance No. 96-O-093
to reflect the new
abutting property owners being Mr. Daniel Garcia, Jr. and wife
Melida Garcia as the authorized buyers, instead of Imelda Yolanda Bustamante of
the "Surface Only" of Parcel No. 3-a 1,286.21 sq. ft. tract of land,
more or less, comprised of a portion of the north half of Jarvis Avenue
right-of-way between the south right-of-way of Sta. Barbara Street and the north
right-of-way of Sta. Clara Street, also bounded on the west and east by Blocks
nos. 203 and 204 respectively, Eastern Division, as per the City of Laredo
Original Land Grant, recorded in Volume 7, Page 15, Webb County Plat Records;
and authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to
effectively convey fee simple title of the "Surface Only" at its
market value of said City property to Mr. Daniel Garcia, Jr. and wife Melida
Garcia who are now the current abutting property owners and providing for an
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-292.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-293 An ordinance closing as a public easement a
60.0 foot strip of land out of a
portion of Casa Verde
Road between west right-of-way line of Loop 20
and the east
right-of-way line of the new University Boulevard Extension.
Said 60.0 foot strip of
land being situated in Porcion 26, Abstract 282,
City of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas; being generally described below
and more particularly
described by metes and bounds, provided that the
City retains a 12 foot
wide (23,224 square feet) Central Power and Light
Company utility
easement as described, and providing for an effective
date for the closure of
the parcel and reversion of the public's interest in
said parcel to the
abutting owner.
Being a strip of land generally 60.0 feet in width and containing
2.648 acres, more or less, out of the certain 1,450 acre tract more fully
described in a conveyance from Delfina Benavides Alexander to Delfina Alexander
Ochoa and Josefina Alexander Gonzalez, recorded in Volume 414, Pages 502-503,
Deed Records, Webb County, Texas said strip of land being a portion of the Test
Site Road also known as Casa Verde road in the vicinity of its intersection
with Loop 20, situated in Porcion 26, Abstract 282, Agustin Sanchez, Original
Grantee, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-293.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2000-O-294 An ordinance authorizing the City Manager to
execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey fee simple title to the
"Surface Only", at its adjusted market value of $11,824.00, of
certain property described as a tract of land containing 13,436.00 sq. ft.,
more or less, out of that former section of the 200 block of Laredo Street
between Sanders Avenue and the west right-of-way line of the Texas Mexican
Railroad, to Alexander Investments.
Said tract being situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas; provided the City of Laredo will retain the entire street
property as a utility easement, being described on the excerpt of a City Plat,
and hereby approving the submitted Improvement Plan, as described and which is
in compliance with Section 10 of the Street Closing/Sales Policy Handbook, as
approved per Resolution No. 91-R-140; and providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2000-O-294.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
*note:
correction made to reflect accurate Resolution Number which is
#97-R-140.
XI. RESOLUTIONS
17. 2000-R-161 A resolution accepting the donation of the
"Surface Only" of a 1.357 acres
(59,106.17 sq. ft.), more or less, tract of land, and a 0.643 of
an acre (28,013.48 sq. ft.), more or less, tract of land from Delfina A.
Alexander, Josefina Alexander Gonzalez, and Alexander Residential Corporation;
for the construction of a Fire Station on Casa Verde Road, with frontage to
Loop 20. Said 1.357 acres and 0.643 of
an acre tract of land being out of the D. Alexander Ochoa and J. Alexander
Gonzalez Properties, in the City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; being generally
described, and more particular by metes and bounds.
Motion to approve Resolution #2000-R-161.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 2000-R-162 A resolution declaring the public necessity
to acquire the "Surface Only"
of one parcel of land for the construction of a downtown parking
lot. Said parcel being legally
described as Lot 9 and 2 Varas of Lot 8, Block 33, Western Division, City of
Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and being delineated on copy of City Plat, and
authorizing staff to negotiate for the acquisition of said parcel by purchase
at a market value to be established be a State Certified Real Estate Appraiser.
Motion to approve Resolution #2000-R-162.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
19. Consideration to award
a demolition contract to III PG Enterprises of Laredo in the
amount of $178,770.00 to demolish two masonry buildings identified
as Building No. 1450 and No. 1451 located at the Laredo International Airport
and authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute said contract. The term of the contract to complete the
scope of work is 60 calendar days. III
PG Enterprises is the responsive low bidder meeting all bid specifications. A total of eight (8) bids were received.
Cm. Bruni mentioned that there were two other buildings scheduled
to be demolished on the north side of the airport on Cactus Street.
Jose L. Flores, Airport Director, mentioned that one of the
buildings had been demolished, namely the building previously leased to Webb
County at the corner of Cactus St. and Cherry Hill. He stated that the other building in question belongs to the
Texas Migrant Council and is still in use at this time. He mentioned that there are a number of
additional buildings that need to be demolished.
Cm. Bruni requested that he furnish a list to City Council of all
other buildings scheduled for demolition.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with the Catholic
Social Services of Laredo, Inc. (CSS) in the amount of $120,060.00
to administer the City's Fiscal Year 2001 General Fund Welfare Assistance
Program through which rental, utility, burial, transportation, ambulance, and
health care assistance is provided to indigent individuals and families
residing in the community. The contract
would cover expenditures for the period of October 1, 2000 to September 30,
2001.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Ratify and approve
action taken by the City Manager on November 3, 2000 to renew
the contract with Arthur J. Gallagher, insurance broker on behalf
of XL Specialty Insurance Company for Airport Liability and Control Tower
Liability Insurance coverage for the annual premium amount of $51,000.00,
effective October 1, 2000 through September 30, 2001.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF
REPORT
22.
Presentation by International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) on
the Water
Quality
of the Rio Grande. IBWC is under
contract with Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission and is responsible
for collecting the water quality data from seventy two (72) monitoring stations
along the Rio Grande River.
Mr. Gilbert Anaya, Environmental Protection Specialist for the
International Boundary and Water Commission, made a presentation to City
Council on how the IBWC has administered the Texas Clean Rivers Program.
In
its first full year of administering the program, the U.S. section of the
International Boundary and Water Commission has been working with local communities
to address water quality issues. The
Clean Rivers Program partners have been participating in water quality
monitoring and providing valuable input to help shape and direct the Clean
Rivers Program. Federal, state, and
local governments, and private citizens are working side by side in the spirit
of cooperation with a common goal to assess water quality and present
information to educate people about the importance of protecting their water
resources.
The Texas Clean Rivers Program Rio Grande Basin Advisory
Committees (BAC) provide a forum for the local community to interact directly
with federal and state agencies and allow for the two-way exchange of
information that is necessary for the Clean Rivers Program to succeed. In February and March 2000, Basin Advisory
Committee meetings were held in Harlingen, Laredo, Pecos, and El Paso,
Texas. Meeting topics included FY2000
program tasks, the Total Maximum Daily Load Program, the Texas Nonpoint Source
Program, and coordinated monitoring.
Issues that were of concern to individuals were addressed and recorded
in the meeting minutes to insure follow-up discussions.
Mr. Anaya mentioned that the IBWC relies on the expertise and
collection of data from the local partners in this region such as Mayor Flores,
City Manager Larry Dovalina, Victor Oliveros from the City/County Health
Department, Dr. Tom Brown from the Rio Grande International Studies Center, and
Riazul Mia, Environmental Services. He
also recognized the diligent efforts of Robert Ramos, Project Coordinator
within the local field office, who provides much of the necessary data compiled
from his expertise and familiarity with the area.
Cm. Bruni inquired whether the City would be seeing improvements,
in terms of quality of water, as a result of their monitoring efforts.
Mr. Anaya replied that as they continue to increase the amount of
infrastructure in the area, in particular the water and sewer treatment at the
Nuevo Laredo Plant, they are better able to eliminate a large portion of what
goes into the river. He mentioned that
when the Environmental Department joined the program, one of the first sites
they looked into was Manadas Creek.
They want to do additional surveys in the tributaries to help determine
where the influences to the river are.
Cm. Galo inquired whether funding for the sewer plant in Nuevo
Laredo will soon expire.
Mr. Anaya replied that the treatment plant is now being run by
COMAPA, Nuevo Laredo’s utilities provider.
Cm. Bruni inquired whether the treatment plant in Nuevo Laredo has
already reached 100% capacity as is being unofficially reported.
Mr. Anaya stated that the capacity of the treatment plant is 31
million gallons per day. At the present
time, it is operating at 21 million gallons per day.
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. inquired whether the City of Laredo gets to
make recommendations regarding Nuevo Laredo’s infrastructure/investment needs
as it relates to their wastewater treatment plant.
Mr. Anaya stated that those areas of development pertain to the
agencies created by NAFTA such as the NAD Bank and the Border Environment
Cooperation Commission. These are the
agencies that fund and also certify the projects.
Mayor Pro Tem Guerra
suggested that the staff prepare a letter to Land Commissioner David
Dewhurst to follow up on the cleanup efforts of the Rio Grande. Mayor Flores mentioned that she would be
preparing a follow up letter to the Land Commissioner.
The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive
session at any time during this public meeting, when it deems it necessary to
consult privately with its attorney about any item upon this agenda, pursuant
to the provisions of Section 551.071(2) of the Texas Government Code.
XV. ADJOURNMENT Time: 8:05 p.m.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01
through 27 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council Meeting
held on the 27th day of November, 2000.
_______________________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary