CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2001-R-26

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

OCTOBER 15, 2001

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 Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

III. ROLL CALL

In attendance:

Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor

Alfredo Agredano, Council Member, District I
Louis H. Bruni, Council Member, District II

John C. Galo, Council Member, District III

Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV

Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Mayor Pro Tempore, District V

Joe A. Guerra, Council Member, 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

Jaime Flores, City Attorney

IV. MINUTES

Approval of the minutes of August 6, 15, 16, 17 and 27.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Amaya

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

Announcements

Cm. Ramirez reminded City Council of the Paseo del Rio event to be held Saturday, October 20, 2001, by the riverbanks. He invited everyone in the audience to attend.

Cm. E. Valdez, Jr., thanked the Community Development Department and the Code Enforcement staff for their cleanup efforts and removal of graffiti in District V.

Cm. Galo mentioned that he attended workshops held with employees in regards to the privatization proposition. He stated that the employees were provided information and answers in connection with this project. Both companies provided very good benefits packages and are receptive to meeting the City’s standard on short-term disability and serious illness benefits.

Cm. Bruni submitted the Southwest Texas Rain Enhancement Association Report to City Council for Flights # 89 and # 90 conducted on October 5, 2001, and Recon. Flight # 20 conducted on October 5. The complete reports are available at the City Secretary’s Office for review.

Cm. Agredano reported that a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held last Saturday at Cielito Lindo sponsored by the AmericaVista and KB Homes groups. He mentioned that AmericaVista and KB Homes have agreed to grant $10,000.00 in scholarship monies for the new L. B. Johnson High School in South Laredo. Dr. Ramon Dovalina also committed to donate $5,000.00 toward scholarships and City Council District I will grant a $2,000.00 donation from the Council Member’s Scholarship Fund. Cm. Agredano also mentioned that there would be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Meadow Bridge on Friday, October 19, 2001.

The City of Laredo and the Rio Grande International Study Center invite all residents of Laredo to participate in Dia del Rio on Saturday, October 20, 2001, from 8:00 to a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For more information please contact Jessica Hein at 791-7303. Hundreds of volunteers will be seen constructing a nature trail by the river beginning at Bridge II and continuing through to Zacate Creek. All residents of Laredo are invited to join our environmentally educational efforts to bring focus to our most important natural resource - the Rio Grande River. Jessica Hein, Administrative Assistant for the City Manager, reported that the City has confirmation of approximately 500 volunteers from Laredo Community College students, Texas A & M International University students, and Girl Scout Brownie troops who will volunteer their time at this very important event.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that in the past, the LCC Environmental Center has been responsible for El Dia del Rio activities. This year, the City of Laredo did not want to take a backseat role in this event. What will be happening this year is that there are two parts to this event: there is a Dia del Rio supported by the City of Laredo taking place along with the annual Dia del Rio event.

Recognitions

a. Financial Services Department for the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in

Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association.

Mayor Flores and the City Council publicly recognized all the members of the Finance Department for its comprehensive annual financial report. This honor is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting.

b. L.I.S.D Campus Crime Stoppers Program, which won six (6) international awards.

These six awards include 1st place for most arrests, 1st place for best public service announcement, 1st place for most cleared cases, 2nd place for most drugs recovered, 2nd place for most stolen goods recovered, and the most improved award for most stolen goods recovered. Other countries that participated in this event include United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and others. This competition was held in Pueblo, Colorado in September, 2001.

Mayor Flores and the City Council recognized the school district’s efforts to reduce criminal activity in their schools.

Communiqués

None.

VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

A. Appointment by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores of Consuelo Montalvo to the

Vehicles for Hire Ad Hoc Committee.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Guerra

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

B. Appointment by Council Member Louis H. Bruni of Sylvia Garza to the

Vehicles for Hire Ad Hoc Committee.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002

Airport Budget to recognize additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal Aviation Administration being grant project no 3-48-0136-32-01 in the amount of $3,500,000.00 for the purpose of constructing a portion of an air cargo apron at the Laredo International Airport and appropriating said grant revenue and local match to the appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget amendment. The local match is available in the Airport Land Acquisition Reimbursement Account.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Bruni

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni

2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002

Airport Budget to recognize additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal Aviation Administration being grant project no. 3-48-0136-31-01 in the amount of $2,000,000.00 for the purpose of constructing a service road along the inside perimeter of the Laredo International Airport and appropriating said grant revenue and local match to the appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget amendment. The local match is available in the Airport Land Acquisition Reimbursement Account.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni

3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002

Airport Budget to recognize additional revenues from a grant agreement CSJ Number M222LREDO with the Texas Department of Transportation under the Routine Airport Maintenance Program in the amount of $30,000.00 for the purpose of airport maintenance at the Laredo International Airport. The City's fifty (50%) percent local match for this project in the amount of $30,000.00 is available in the Airport Land Sale Proceeds Restricted Fund.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Bruni

VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

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

1. Status report on Interlocal Agreement between the City of Laredo and County of Webb

to provide Fire Protection and EMS Services, with possible action.

Luis Sosa, Fire Chief, reported that the agreement is presently at the County and it has been approved by the County.

Cm. Bruni wanted confirmation from Fire Chief Sosa that the Webb County Commissioners Court did in fact approve the contract at $450,000.00 per year for a period of two years. He suggested that the agreement be taken up for brief discussion before the Metro Government Committee. He extended an invitation to Comm. Mike Urdiales and Comm. Judith Gutierrez to attend a discussion of the issue at a meeting of the Metro Government Committee and then bring a recommendation back to City Council.

Larry Dovalina stated that the reason the City has stayed with the same figure is because there has been some increased annexation throughout the city.

Cm. Galo wanted to know at what point was the decision made to accept the $450,000.00 figure before it was submitted to Webb County.

Fire Chief Sosa stated that his department submitted a figure of $450,000.00 following a cost analysis.

Cm. Bruni emphasized that it was during the budget hearings that his department put this $450,000.00 figure in their budget. He stated that the matter did not go before City Council for approval of that figure. He would like to have a meeting with the Metro Government Committee to discuss this further and get into the numbers. He wants to make sure the city has adequate EMS and fire protection for its citizens.

Mayor Flores asked Fire Chief Sosa to bring this up before the Metro Government Committee to explain how he arrived at those numbers.

2. Status report on the street lighting at the intersection of McPherson and Jacaman, with

possible action.

Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that the lighting was activated on Friday. He stated that the 27,500 lumens on these lights provide adequate lighting.

3. Status report on Eastwoods Park, with possible action.

Horacio De Leon, Parks Director, reported that the scope of the park design includes a Little League field, a soccer fields, basketball courts, multi-purpose slab, jogging trails, playground equipment. The conceptual design has been completed and the final design is due in mid-November. The construction award should be made some time in January, 2002. Projected completion date for the park is April, 2002.

4. Status report on the lack of water and wastewater services at the intersection of Highway

359 and Loop 20.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, reported that this area, along with the areas of Casa Verde and Milmo, are all being looked into for connection of adequate water and sewer services. He stated that the City is bringing them all together as one project. The reason the City is now dealing with the matter is because the developer of this particular plat did not include the necessary improvements as part of the plat.

Cm. Bruni submitted for the record a survey plat of Lot Five (5) of El Rancho Subdivision, Section Two (2).

B. Request by Council Member John C. Galo

1. Discussion with possible action regarding the Cemetery operations, including the fee

structure.

Mr. Jesus Cantu mentioned that Comm. Dewhurst, Texas Land Commissioner, was in Laredo on Tuesday briefing the public over Proposition 7 for the November General Election. Proposition 7 deals with state-funded of cemeteries. Should this proposition pass, the Land Commissioner will be allowed to fund seven cemeteries throughout the State of Texas. He encourages all the voters to cast their vote in favor of Proposition 7.

Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the City has been in the cemetery business prior to the 1800s. He stated that the City Council established an ordinance back in 1892 to create the current cemetery site. This land was later subdivided to provide a site for Catholic burials. In regards to the fee and authority, Ordinance 96-O-164 established the legal authority and the $50.00 fee for the plot and $50.00 for the grave services were the fees being charged historically. The same fees continued up until 1996. Recently, the fee schedules underwent critical review when he took over the department. He noticed that the City was subsidizing the operations by $189,000.00 annually. He looked at the fee structure and decided to increase the fees based on the current market value of the cemetery plots. He further mentioned that he is recommending a fee structure that is compatible to the services being provided.

C. Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya

1. Status report on traffic light malfunctions at the corners of Seymour and Clark and

Meadow and Clark, with possible action.

Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that both intersections are controlled by one controller. He stated that the department has a program to replace all the dated equipment which is of the electromechanical type. They have already replaced said controller with a temporary one at the above-mentioned locations. Once his department receives the new controllers, he will have one installed at this location.

D. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr.

1. Discussion with possible action regarding a graffiti clean-up campaign in District VII.

Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, reported that his department would be working with Cm. Valdez to identify two or three sites within his district. They will be working out the details in order to plan a day for graffiti removal and litter abatement using a group of volunteers. He will also be providing a cost breakdown for the materials that will be used.

2. Discussion with possible action to designate drug-free zones throughout the city.

Mr. Jesus “Toro” Martinez, Program Director for the Webb County Community Coalition, spoke before City Council. He stated that he is asking for City Council to support the coalition’s efforts to maintain the areas designated as drug-free zones and its continued struggle to enforce curfews.

Esther Firova, on behalf of Parents Against Drug and Substance Abuse, stated that they have a common concern regarding the curfew. Besides having the adolescents be accountable for their actions, she would like to make a suggestion that the city address the late night parties in the neighborhoods that place the community as a whole at risk. She stated that this would be a continuation of the parents’ commitment to zero tolerance of drugs in the community.

Police Chief Agustin Dovalina reported that they would be recommending a list of sites that the department would like to designate as drug-free zones and weapons-free zones. He mentioned that the department would be scheduling a series of meetings with the Parks Task Force along with the Parks Director and all the entities associated with them. There will also be a meeting with the Juvenile Enforcement Team from the police department along with School Resource Officers to obtain more information on where these sites should be designated.

E. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez

1. Discussion and public input regarding naming the area below La Azteca neighborhood

between Bridge II and Zacate Creek and considering "Las Palmas Park" as the proposed name, with possible action.

Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, stated that this particular area, there was a dedication of land by the Leyendecker Family and the request on the dedication was that the area be named after Justo Penn.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that should there be a particular obligation to a tract of land that it should be developed as a module of the larger park. The larger park should carry the global name with modules within that park.

Motion to designate that a portion of Las Palmas Park be named Justo Penn Park.

Moved: Cm. Ramirez

Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2. Discussion with possible action regarding the parking lot north of Los Dos Laredos Park

and the police substation proposed to be located at Bridge I.

Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that in regards to the parking lot, the department has already incorporated several improvements there. The department had assistance from the Public Works Department in resurfacing the parking lot, new parking lines have been painted in, and a fence has also been added. They are in the process of buying temporary equipment in order to be able to charge fees for use of the parking lot. They are also working closely with Frank Architects who will be working on the design for the entire area. He stated that the equipment should be installed by late November.

Police Chief Agustin Dovalina reported that back in June, the department presented a proposal before City Council regarding a new police substation. He stated that the proposed site is currently being used as a parking facility. At this particular meeting, it was suggested that monies would be generated through the Council Members’ discretionary funds to fund the construction of a new police workstation. He mentioned that they did inspect the gray building that Cm. Ramirez was considering but felt that the building would not be able to house the necessary police officers there. He added that at that particular location, the parking availability would be a problem. Also, they were waiting to find out whether the suggestion for funding made back in June was going to go through.

Cm. Ramirez made a motion that Police Chief Dovalina work on a proposal on the costs involved to add another police substation in the downtown area.

Motion was made, there was no second; motion dies for a lack of a second.

Chief Dovalina provided a copy of the proposal made back in June which includes a cost estimate for furniture, utilities, etc.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that the City should be cautious regarding any investment made in this particular area since it is scheduled to be demolished in March or April of next year.

Mayor Flores suggested that Cm. Ramirez be provided his information so that City Council can revisit this matter.

3. Discussion with possible action to create more parking for persons with disabilities

around San Agustin Plaza and in the downtown area.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, reported that the parking lot north of San Agustin Church belongs to the church and any adjustments that are necessary could easily be made to the parking lot by the church. Regarding the issue of lack of parking around San Agustin Plaza, City Council has allowed the taxicab companies to take over the majority of parking spaces. Maybe the taxicab companies could lease some property so that they are not occupying the spaces necessary for the general public.

Mayor Flores suggested that this matter be turned over to the Transportation Committee for review and possible recommendations for handicapped parking spaces.

Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, provided some information on the designation of handicapped parking spaces. He mentioned a concern with the Legal Department that a handicapped parking space requires more space than a regular parking stall. The department is no longer designating handicapped parking on the street. He is encouraging people to utilize the spaces available at no charge in the parking lots.

4. Discussion with possible action regarding opening the City's landfill on one Sunday per

month beginning in October.

Oscar Medina, Public Works Assistant Director, reported that approximately one year ago the City decided to close the landfill. This decision was made based on the cost incurred by the City: the average tipping fee that was coming in was $682.00; the cost of operation for a Sunday was $3,800.00 for personnel only. The department also discovered that in order to operate efficiently, they would need seven additional employees or close operations on Sundays. He mentioned that if the City decided to open one Sunday per month, the financial impact would be $46,000.00 a year not including fuel, power, and wear and tear on the equipment.

Motion to open the landfill beginning with the last Sunday in October and to have the landfill open on the last Sunday of every month on a trial basis for three months.

Moved: Cm. Ramirez

Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

5. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a budget amendment to appropriate all funds

associated with the Texas Department of Transportation State Project Contract No. 511226041 as follows: State Funds in the amount of $1,054,000; transit sales tax local match of $40,000; and state toll credits of $223,500 for a total of $1,317,500; and providing for grant funds to be deposited in the City of Laredo Transit Fund Accounts.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

6. Introduction of an ordinance accepting and adopting the City of Laredo's Write-off

Policy for Accounts Receivable as presented to the Audit Committee on September 17, 2001.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

X. FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES

Internet availability: //www.ci.laredo.tx.us

Motion to waive the final readings of Ordinance # 2001-O-229, # 2001-O-230, # 2001-O-231, # 2001- O-232, # 2001-O-233, # 2001-O-234, # 2001-O-235, # 2001-O-236, # 2001-O-237, # 2001-O-238, # 2001-O-239, # 2001-O-240, # 2001-O-241, # 2001-O-242, # 2001-O-243, and # 2001-O-244.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

7. 2001-O-229 Authorizing the Municipality to establish the fair market value of thirty

(30) –O-City owned lots located within the Three Points Subdivision and

specifically identified as Lots 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16, of Block 1781-A; and Lots 1,2,3,4A, 5A, 6A, 9A, 10A, 11A, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, of Block 1780-A, Eastern Division, Laredo, Webb County, Texas as per Exhibit "A" delineated on attached copy of City Plat; and authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey these said lots to the Laredo Affordable Housing Corporation in support of the Three Points Affordable Housing Corporation-First time Homebuyer Project, and providing for an effective date. The City will incorporate a deed restriction in the form of a second lien forgivable loan to guarantee the affordability of the units.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-229.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-230 Amending Subsection (b), "Amounts", Section 8-23, "Same Fees Charged",

Article II. "Cemetery Manager", Chapter 8, "Cemeteries", of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo thereby increasing and adding cemetery fees; providing for severability and an effective date. (As Amended)

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-230.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-231 An ordinance amending Chapter 19, "Motor Vehicles and Traffic", Article

VIII; "Stopping Standing or Parking," of the Code of Ordinances of the

City of Laredo specifically Section 19-364 titled "Restricted Parking

Areas"; thereby adding a subsection 19-364(3) to the code which

establishes a no parking anytime/tow away zone on U.S. 83 (Zapata

Highway) between Zacatecas Street and the southern city limits of Laredo;

providing severability and providing for an effective date and publication.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-231.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-232 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2000-2001 annual budget in the amount

of $613,344.63 to fund the Laredo Financial Disruption Task Force from the Office of the National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) at no cost to the City. Funds will be used to pay for personnel salaries, travel and operational expenses beginning January 1, 2001 through December 31, 2001.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-232.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-233 Amending the City of Laredo fiscal year 2001-2002 Annual Budgets for the

Fire Training Facility Fund and Police Trust Fund in the amount of $700,000 to partially fund the contract with Marshall Company of Corpus Christi, Texas for the Fire Fighting/Law Enforcement Training Facility.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-233.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-234 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

3.20 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit

"A", located S. of Del Mar Blvd. and E. of Laguna Del Mar Ct., from R-2

(Multi-Family Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District);

providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-234.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-235 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

the M 1/3 of the W 1/2 of Lot 3 and M 1/3 of Lots 1 & 2, Block 500, Western Division, located at 1611 San Ignacio Ave., from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-235.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-236 Authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit to Michael Petroleum for

oil and/or gas extraction on 5.00 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A", located south of Concord Hills Subdivision and east of Los Presidentes Subdivision, known as E.G. Ranch No. 1 Gas Well; providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-236.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-237 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

91.899 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A", located west of the proposed Sinatra Parkway extension, east of the Laredo International Airport, and south of the proposed Jacaman Road extension, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-237.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-238 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

1.592 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit

"A", located south of San Lorenzo Drive and east of Mines Road, from R-2

(Multi-Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District);

providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-238.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-239 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

Lots 3, 6, 7, and 8, Block 1491, Eastern Division, located at 2510 and 2516

Market St., from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway

Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-239.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-240 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

Lots 1, 2, 9, and 10, Block 1491 Eastern Division, located at 2502 Market

St., from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial

District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-240.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-241 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

the S 51 ft. of Lots 4 and 5, Block 1491, Eastern Division, located at 2516 Market St. (rear), from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-241.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-242 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

rezoning All of block 748, Western Division, located at the 2400

block of Jefferson St., from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to

R-3 (Mixed Residential District); providing for publication and

effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-242.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-243 Amending Chapter 31, Utilities, Section 31-38 Water Rates and

Availability Subsection 6(b) of the Code of Ordinances to clarify that the Water Availability Fund opening balance of each budget year shall not be depleted more than twenty percent for the purpose of financing studies and pilot programs to augment and diversify the water supply, but shall have no limitation in the amount of funds dedicated to the purchase of water, groundwater, or water rights, including the financial, technical, legal, or any other procurement expenses associated with the purchase of said water, groundwater, or water rights; and providing for effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-243.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2001-O-244 Repealing Ordinance 2001-O-052 to reverse an erroneous appropriation of

$314,956 previously appropriated on February 26, 2001.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-244.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XI. RESOLUTIONS

8. 2001-R-107 Authorizing the City Manager to submit to the United States Foreign-Trade

Zones Board an application for a temporary boundary modification on behalf of Trade Unlimited, Inc., requesting a transfer of Foreign-Trade Zone designation status from the Laredo International Airport known as Site No. 1 to the Trade Unlimited, 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 Trade Unlimited, Inc., facility located at the InterAmerica Industrial Park.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-107.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

9. 2001-R-109 Accepting the assignment of 65.45 acre feet of municipal water rights from

the balance of 800 acre feet deeded to the City of Laredo by Vaquillas Ranch Company, Ltd. in payment of water availability charges in connection with the installation of 14 water meters at the Windsor Place Apartments.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-109.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

10. 2001-R-111 Confirming the appointment of representatives from the City of Laredo to

serve on the Board of Directors of the South Texas Development Council for the period of October 1, 2001 to May 30, 2002.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-111.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

11. 2001-R-112 Supporting and participating in the South Texas Development Council;

and authorizing payment of $36,315.20 for City's membership assessment for the period covering October 1, 2001 to September 30, 2002.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-112.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

12. 2001-R-113 Authorizing the issuance of a permit to Michael Petroleum for oil and/or

gas extraction on 5.00 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A", located south of Concord Hills Subdivision and east of Los Presidentes Subdivision, known as E.G. Ranch No. 1 Gas Well.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-113.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

13. 2001-R-114 Ratifying a memorandum of agreement between the Adjutant General's

Department Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG) and the City of Laredo setting forth specific guidance for the operation of the Texas Army National Guard in conjunction with the Laredo International Airport and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the FAA Airport Security Program.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2001-R-114.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Mayor Pro Tem E. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XII. MOTIONS

14. Consideration to reschedule the City Council Meeting of November 5, 2001, due to the

XXX Meeting of the United States-Mexico Binational Group on Bridges and Border Crossings, and the December 24, 2001 City Council Meeting due to the Christmas holiday.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Mayor Flores agreed to reschedule the first meeting in November to Tuesday, November 13, 2001, and to cancel the meeting of December 24, 2001, due to the Christmas holiday.

15. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for the purchase of 3,719.8437

acre-feet of class "B" water rights from Sam R. Sparks, Inc, for the sum of $2,157,509.38. The water rights convert to 1,487.9375 acre-feet of municipal water rights. Funding is available in the Water Availability Fund.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

16. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for the purchase of 2,975.875 acre-

feet of class "A" water rights from Arrow Brook Limited Partnership, for the sum of $2,157,509.38. The water rights convert to 1,487.9375 acre-feet of municipal water rights. Funding is available in the Water Availability Fund.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

17. Consideration to award a construction contract to the sole bidder Cutler Repaving, Inc.,

Lawrence, Kansas, in the amount of $352,794.00 for the 2001-2002 Street Recycling Project (134.5 Blocks). Funding is available in the Infrastructure Maintenance Street Material/Cutler Repaving.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

18. Consideration for approval of change order no. 1 a decrease of $8,022.85 for the

balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of the Calle del Norte/Springfield Street Improvements Right-Turn Lane Project and approval of final payment in the amount of $30,316.32 to Price Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final contract amount is $75,773.25. Funding is available in the 2000A C.O. Issue Springfield/Calle del Norte.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

19. Consideration for approval of the selection of consultant Design Group International,

Laredo, Texas, for the Roofing Improvements for the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge Toll Plaza Facility and authorization to negotiate a professional services contract. Funding is available in the Bridge System Toll Plaza Improvements.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

20. Consideration for approval of the selection of consultants of Rosin Group, Inc., Laredo,

Texas, G.G. Salinas Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas, and Arcadis WSBC, Laredo, Texas, for three CDBG Sidewalk Projects City Wide of approximately 35 Blocks each for a total of 105 Blocks and authorization to negotiate professional services contracts. Funding is available in the Community Development 26th Action Year-Sidewalks.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1

Cm. Guerra

21. Consideration to award construction contract to the sole bidder C.F. Jordan, L.P.,

Laredo, Texas, in the negotiated bid amount of $367,670.00 for the Rehabilitation of concrete bridge deck, repairs, structural evaluation and assessment of load carrying capacity, and strengthening of the Laredo International Bridge I. Funding is available in the Bridge System Toll Plaza Improvements.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

22. Consideration for approval of the selection of consultant Howland Surveying

Company, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Ejido Avenue Extension and authorization to negotiate a professional services contract.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

23. Consideration for approval of the selection of consultant C & A Cochrane &

Associates, San Antonio, Texas, for the Fire Sprinkler System for the Colombia Solidarity Bridge Toll Plaza Facility and authorization to negotiate a professional services contract. Funding is available in the Bridge System Toll Plaza Improvements.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

24. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease renewal with the State of Texas

General Services Commission on behalf of University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for 447 square feet of office space at the City of Laredo Complex located at 2600 Cedar St. The term of the lease renewal will be from September 1, 2001, through August 31, 2002. The lessee shall pay a sum in the amount of $567.25 rental fee per month which includes the cost of utilities and janitorial services.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

25. Consideration to refund property tax to the following company: A refund in the

amount of $5,801.10 payable to J.C. Penney Prop Inc. #658-5 due to a change of value. The improvements were decreased by the Webb County Appraisal District as per a District Court Judgment; Cause #2000-CVQ000803 of Supplement #2.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

26. Consideration to approve monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amount to be

adjusted for the month of September 2001, which represents a decrease in levy of $12,326.21. These adjustments are determined by the Webb County Appraisal District and Court Orders.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

27. Consideration for acceptance of the Dryden/Optimist Little League Baseball Park

Improvements, and approval of final payment of $32,490.00 less $3,249.00 for retainage resulting in a final payment of $29,241.00. Final contract amount is $32,490.00. Funding is available from the Community Development Block Grant Funds-25th Action Year.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

28. Consideration to approve five Third Party Funding contracts. The contracts are for the

Fiscal Year October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002 and total $639,400.

a. S.C.A.N. $ 36,000

b. Laredo Animal Protective Society $ 126,000

c. Laredo Development Foundation $ 357,400

d. Laredo Veteran's Coalition $ 60,000

e. Children's International Advocacy Center $ 60,000

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

29. Requesting approval of the City Council to write-off various accounts receivable that

are deemed to be un-collectible. The City's audit firm of Garza, Martinez, & Co. recommended in their Letter to Management to write-off antiquated accounts receivable. A summary of the accounts receivables by account type is attached that represents a portion of the receivables that are past due. The list has been presented to the Audit Committee during a previously held meeting in September. The financial impact to the City will be an expenditure of $6,044.43 for the fiscal year.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XIII. STAFF REPORT

30. A report by the Laredo Police Department concerning the reclassification of sixteen

(16) Investigator positions to Sergeant positions.

Police Chief Agustin Dovalina provided an overview from the research he submitted to City Council. He mentioned that the basic ratio within the police department in line personnel and first-line supervisors is one to 9. He recently received word from the Department of Justice that they will be receiving an award for funding for additional officers. He stated that the department has a separate application pending that looks very promising which will provide additional funding for officers. In anticipation of that, the department is requesting reclassification of the investigator positions as requested in the memorandum.

XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION

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.

31. Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in regards to

deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property in the North Laredo area, because deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person; and return to Open Session for possible action.

Motion to open the Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property in the North Laredo area, because deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person; and return to Open Session for possible action.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken.

32. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.074 to

evaluate the performance and pay of City Manager Larry Dovalina; and return to open session for possible action.

Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.074 to evaluate the performance and pay of City Manager Larry Dovalina; and return to open session for possible action.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken.

Motion to amend section 4.A of City Manager Larry Dovalina’s contract to set his annual salary at $140,000.00.

Moved: Cm. Amaya

Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XV. RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD

Motion to recess as City Council and convene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

33. 2001-RT-005 Authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute amendment for

grant contract No. 51922F6004, Article I, grant period, between the City of Laredo and the Texas Department of Transportation to extend the grant period from October 31, 2001 to April 30, 2002 which is the estimated time of delivery of vans.

Motion to approve 2001-RT-005.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

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

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

Motion to adjourn. Time: 9:15 p.m.

Moved: Cm. Bruni

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 21 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on October 15, 2001.

______________________________

Gustavo Guevara, Jr.

City Secretary