CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2001-R-30

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

NOVEMBER 26, 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 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

            Johnny Amaya,                                                                         Council Member, District IV

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

            Joe 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

            Cynthia Collazo,                                                                       Assistant City Manager

            Jaime Flores,                                                                            City Attorney

 

            Motion to excuse Cm.  John C.  Galo.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

            Second:  Cm.  J.  Ramirez

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

IV.       MINUTES

 

Approval of the minutes of October 1, 2001 and October 15, 2001.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Ramirez

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

Announcements

 

Mayor Flores announced that the Texas Operation Lifesaver organization, together with the City of Laredo, TxDOT, V. M. Trevino  School of Communications and Fine Arts, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Mexican Railway, and Union Pacific Railroad, will coordinate a mock crash dramatization on Tuesday, November 27, 2001.  This will take place at the railroad crossing on the 1100 block of Juarez Avenue.  This dramatization will emphasize the harsh reality of fatalities and injuries sustained in railroad crossing collisions.

 

a.  Presentation of the 2001 Employee Leadership Development Class. 

 

    Jerry Elizondo, Training Coordinator, reported that this is the fifth class to participate

    in the Employee Leadership Program.  He introduced the employees who are members

    of the 2001-2002 class: 

 

Luis Tinajero, Laredo Police Department

Pedro Paredes, Jr., Traffic Safety Department

Pablo Martinez, Utilities Department

Karla De La Rosa, Community Development

Teresa Esparza, Engineering Department

Rosie Cantu, Planning & Zoning Department

Michelle Romani, Convention & Visitors Bureau

George Leal, Sanitation Department

Joe Moreno, Laredo Public Library

Adan Guajardo, Tax Department

Lupita Narvaez, City Manager's Office

Anita Stanley, Parks and Recreation Department

Greg Hernandez, Laredo Bridge System

Beatriz Duarte, Health Department

Genoveva Ramirez, Health Department

Edna Garza, Administrative Services Department

 

Invitations

 

Cm. Bruni extended an invitation to the ribbon cutting ceremony on Hwy. 359 Waterpoint to be held Thursday, November 29, 2001, at 2:00 p.m.  He mentioned this facility will serve as a water point for the outlying areas that do not have water.

 

Recognitions

 

None.

 

Communiqués

 

None.

 

 

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSION, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

 

None.

 

VII.     PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

1a.  Public hearing for the voluntary annexation of Tract 1:  UISD Tract-10.00 acres, more

       or less.

 

       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.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Guerra

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1b.  Public hearing for the voluntary annexation of Tract 2:  Mejia Tract-0.34 acres, more or

       less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1c.  Public hearing for the voluntary annexation of Tract 3:  Heirloom Tract-13.67 acres,

       more or less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Guerra

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

       There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1d.  Public hearing for the voluntary annexation of Tract 4:  FESCO Tract-66.126 acres,

       more or less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  J. Valdez, Jr.

       Second:  Cm.  Agredano

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1e.  Public hearing for the voluntary annexation of Tract 5:  Flores Tract-0.96 acres, more

       or less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Guerra

       Second:  Cm.  Agredano

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1f.  Public hearing for the unilateral annexation of Tract 6:  Tex-Mex Railway Tract-

       228.6075 acres, more or less.

 

 

 

 

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  Guerra

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       Ron Whitehawk, representing Tex-Mex Railway, stated that they would like to request   

       not to proceed with the involuntary annexation of this tract.  He pointed out that this 

       area is totally developed and, therefore, the concept of annexing it in order to control development is not relevant.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  J. Valdez, Jr.

       Second:  Cm.  Guerra

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

1g.  Public hearing for the unilateral annexation of Tract 7:  Lake/Life Downs Tract-776.19

       acres, more or less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Guerra

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

       For:     5                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  2

                                                                                                                        Cm.  Amaya

                                                                                                Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

 

       Pete Morales, Assistant Planning Director for Webb County, stated that they are 

       opposed to the annexation.  He requested that City Council follow the recommendation 

       of the Planning and Zoning Commission which recommended that this site not be 

       annexed.   Should City Council choose to annex the land, he is requesting that Webb

       County be granted an M-2 zoning designation on the Road and Bridge Department.

 

       Tomas M.  Rodriguez, Webb County Engineer, stated that he requests that the City not 

       annex the County Road and Bridge Department. 

 

Motion to exclude the 128 acres specifically leased from Webb County to L.I.F.E. Downs but to include the remaining portion of the 776.19 acres including Larga Vista and including Lot 3, Block 1 (Road and Bridge Department). 

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

       For:     5                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  2

                                                                                                                        Cm.  Amaya

                                                                                                Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

 

 

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  J. Valdez, Jr.

       For:     5                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  2

                                                                                                Cm.  Amaya

                                                                                                Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

 

1h.  Public hearing for the unilateral annexation of Tract 8:  Larga Vista Tract-36.26 acres,

       more or less.

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  J. Valdez, Jr.

       For:     5                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  2

                                                                                                                        Cm.  Amaya

                                                                                                Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

 

       Pete Morales, Assistant Planning Director, stated that their concern with this 

       annexation is the annexation of county property which is the site of the Community

       Center.  He mentioned that county staff has worked with Planning and Zoning staff and 

       have been assured that community center type uses will be permitted.  He pointed out 

       that the land use charts are very specific and that government buildings require a B-1 

       zoning designation.  The Commissioners Court has given staff recommendations to go

       out and hire an architect to work on an addition at the Community Center.  He stated 

       that he would hate to see an addition made to a building that would later be considered

       non-conforming and not be allowed.  What city staff is proposing is assigning an R-3

       designation, but Webb County would request that City Council not annex two lots and

       if it does, to grant the B-1 zoning designation.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

       Second:  Cm.  Agredano

       For:     5                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  2

                                                                                                                        Cm.  Amaya

                                                                                                Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

 

1i.  Public hearing for the unilateral annexation of Tract 9:  Colombia Bridge Tract-

      137.8539 acres, more or less.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

       Second:  Cm.  Agredano

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Voluntary annexations of Tracts 1 through 5 total 91.096 acres, more or less, and unilateral annexations of Tracts 6 through 9 total 1,178.9114 acres, more or less for a total of 1,270.0074 acres, as described in the tract summaries as required by Section 43.063 of the Texas Local Government Code.

 

2.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 4, 5, and the East 1/2 of Lot 3, Block 1268, Eastern Division, located at 2219 Clark Blvd., from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Louis La Vaude, representing Olga La Vaude, requested that City Council follow the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission and deny the zone change.  

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a three-month conditional use permit until the last meeting in April, 2002.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Bruni

           

3.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

City of Laredo by rezoning 12.8447 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit "A", located south of Avenida Los Presidentes and east of United South High School, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Guerra

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Agredano

 

4.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 9 and 11, Block 654, Eastern Division, located at 1119 Travis St., from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Vidal Palacios, stated that within the last six months several businesses have opened in his neighborhood which have taken away from the attractiveness and peacefulness of the neighborhood.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and postpone for 30 days. 

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  Bruni

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

5.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 2, Block 1456, Eastern Division, located at 2505 Thurman St., from R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

 

 

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Agredano

 

6.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

City of Laredo by rezoning 12.41 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit "A", located east of McPherson Road and north of University Park Subdivision, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                   Cm.  Bruni

 

Carlos Mejia, Mejia Engineering Company, spoke on behalf of the owner, Robert Marshall.  He stated he is in favor of the zone change being that the change is compatible with the existing zoning designation in the vicinity. 

 

Jorge Dominguez, representing the property owner Luz Dominguez, stated that an existing ordinance specifically states that no person should fill the creek or any part of the floodway.  He mentioned that the land developer is in violation of the ordinance, and that this violation has created flooding and destruction on the property. 

 

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that this has been a rather controversial issue.  He stated that city staff is fully aware that there is litigation pending and that there are violations by both parties.  However, he wants to make City Council aware that it is not staff's position to stop a zoning process because of what may be occurring between the litigating parties. 

 

Cm. Guerra stated that there are other factors that must be taken into consideration.  He mentioned that he has received numerous calls from residents in the area who are concerned about the effects to the environment and, therefore, he is opposed to  the requested zone change.  

 

Cm. Bruni stated that he has known the land developer, Robert Marshall, for over 20 years.  He mentioned that he is a very reputable individual and he has never heard a complaint against him or his company.

 

Motion to close the public hearing, override Planning and Zoning Commission and staff's recommendation, and deny the zone change. 

 

Moved:  Cm.  Guerra

Second:  Cm.  Ramirez

For:     6                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                   Cm.  Bruni

VIII.   GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

           

7.  A.  Request by Council Member John C. Galo

 

1. Discussion with possible action for City to initiate a dumpster

    system to a pick-up and remove yard debris and branches.

 

    Motion to postpone until next meeting.

 

    Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

    Second:  Cm.  Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

      B.  Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Eliseo Valdez, Jr.

 

1. Discussion with possible action regarding the unveiling of a proposed mural by 

    artist David G. Martinez at the Northeast Hillside Recreation Center.  

 

    Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, spoke of the muralist's 

    credentials.  He mentioned that some of his art work includes work in Nuevo

    Laredo, Monterrey, and Mexico City.  He added that the muralist is donating his

    time to do this mural free of charge for the City of Laredo. 

 

    The muralist David G. Martinez stated that he designed this mural and wanted to 

    contribute his artwork as a tribute to the many lives lost during the September

    11th terrorist attacks.  He described the figures represented on the artwork which 

    conveys the strong sense of patriotism felt and the heroic efforts carried out by the 

    individuals in their service with the fire department, police department, and the 

    American Red Cross.

 

    Motion to accept the mural by David Martinez.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

    Second:  Cm.  Amaya

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

2.  Status report regarding the feasibility of connecting San Francisco North and

     South at the canal, with possible action.

 

     Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that Naismith Engineering was hired to 

     perform a feasibility study.  They submitted a draft report, city staff made 

     comments following its review, and they have subsequently resubmitted their

     report.  There are two design alternatives that are being considered and  they 

     have done this study to examine what the cost benefits ratios are and whether or 

     not a bridge can be built.  They had projected a cost estimate for the two

     alternatives in order to assess whether this project is feasible.  The cost in either

     case is approximately $1.8 million according to the consultant.  The impact

     would be on taking of the rights-of-way and the possibility of closing Canal

     Street.  The conclusion of the studies reveal that, based on the findings, the

     project is feasible although it may not be practical due to the significant project

     costs. 

 

     Mayor Flores inquired as to the length of street work for the proposed project.

 

     Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, replied that it crosses Canal St. across the creek

     all the way to the Chicago-Taylor Bridge which is a two-block distance and to 

     the north it runs all the way to Calton Road about four blocks.

 

     Mayor Flores inquired as to how the determination is made for the usage.

 

     Jeff Puig, from Foster Engineering, explained that the cost-benefit ratio is based 

     on the number of vehicles traveling through the area based on population 

     projections of the 1998 Traffic Survey Intersection Analysis.  He stated that the 

     project is feasible but the costs are significant. 

 

     Cm. Guerra stated that one problem area that has not been mentioned is the way 

     traffic stacks up on Calton Road. 

 

     Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that staff has looked at the preliminary 

     figures and they are attempting to figure out a way to bring down the  

     construction costs.  They have looked at doing a low water crossing but that is

     not possible because the City is committed to a 100-year flood plain.

 

     Motion to place this item on the Capital Improvement Plan.

 

     Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

     Second:  Cm.  Valdez

     For:     7                              Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

3.  Status report regarding the completion of Eistetter Park.

 

      Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that bids have been received for this project.  However, the bid figures were quite high and staff is currently looking into other ways to make it whole.  They will be discussing this matter tomorrow with the contractor to negotiate those prices and bring the project within budget.

 

4.      Discussion with possible action regarding traffic issues at the intersection of  

      Springfield and Mayberry.

 

      Robert Murillo, Traffic Director, stated that said intersection currently has a four-way stop.  They are looking at additional traffic data including the accident reports for the last few years.  He mentioned that he needs to analyze the data being compiled, together with the accident data, and then bring a report to City Council in three weeks.  As a short time solution, he is looking at placing larger

      stop signs as well as warning signs and beacons over the stop signs.

      Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez wants to see what City Council can do to sponsor a resolution for the following legislative session to address this issue of reckless motorists. 

 

      Larry Dovalina, City Manager, mentioned that the City of Richardson initially pursued this issue, and they have requested an Attorney General's opinion regarding a provision under current law where they can enforce that issue.  He commended the Traffic Safety Department because they are able to send signals back from different locations that monitor the timing and download information.  This makes it easier to eventually place cameras at these locations and start recording those motorists taking the red lights.

 

                 C.  Request by Council Member Joe A. Guerra

 

1.  Presentation by Joseph Chalko regarding a Liberty Bell Day Ceremony in July

     2002, with possible action.

 

      Mr. Chalko stated that since he last appeared before City Council in July, 2001,

      many things have been said regarding patriotism.  He mentioned that his proposal for adoption of Liberty Bell Day would carry on this renewed sense of  patriotism which President Bush speaks about.  He stated that by officially commemorating Liberty Bell Day in Laredo the community would be able to express its patriotism. 

 

      Motion to instruct staff to work with  Mr. Joseph Chalko to commemorate July 8th as Liberty Bell Day.

 

      Moved:  Cm. Guerra

      Second:  Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

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

 

1.  Presentation by Fire Department regarding expanded services to the Mines Road 

     area.

 

      Fire Chief Sosa stated that they have always had paramedics at the station in the Mines Road area.  What they have now done is added some equipment such as defibrillators and medication to the fire trucks in case of an emergency.   For example, should there be some traffic congestion due to a crossing train that prevents access to an ambulance, the crew on the fire trucks would now be able to stabilize the person until an ambulance can reach the person needing medical attention.

 

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that each fire truck has paramedics on it, regardless of whether they are driving an ambulance or not.

 

2.  Discussion with possible action regarding park improvements for Canizales

     Linear Park.

 

      Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, reported that they went out with a Request for Qualifications for this project.  Unfortunately, they did not receive any response from an interested party.  This was discussed with Mr. Rivera to see whether this project could be undertaken through in-house staff.

 

3.  Discussion with possible action regarding erosion between Bristol and Flecha

     Lanes.

 

      Oscar Medina, Assistant Public Works Director, reported that they had placed some dirt and fill there to stop the erosion.  The crew will now be placing some concrete around the manhole and that should take care of the problem. 

 

4.  Discussion with possible action regarding the raising of low water crossing on

     Las Cruces Road.

 

      Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that they can take some other measures to see to what degree that particular crossing can be raised.  He mentioned the City's limitations would probably be the house that is adjacent to the north of that creek.  The City has a 49-foot right-of-way and that is the extent of what  can be disturbed.  The rest of it is private property even though it is a creek area.  His department would need a combination of raising the low water crossing and cleaning part of the creek.  He mentioned that there has been some filling activity further downstream that has been backing up the water. 

 

      Cm. Valdez, Jr. requested that Mr. Rivera obtain a cost study for this low water crossing project and come back to City Council with some figures.

 

                 E.  Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez

                       

1.  Report from Police Department regarding illegal activity on November 17th

     and 18th near River Drive Mall.

 

      Eliodoro Granados, Assistant Police Chief, reported that he found a couple of minor cases in the vicinity of River Drive Mall.  One was a criminal mischief at the hotel and another case involved a car that was picked up on the 1300 block of Zaragoza St.

 

2.  Discussion with possible action to rescind contract with River Drive Mall for   

     Blocks X and Y to create parking for large vehicles.

 

      Larry Dovalina, City Manager, reported that city staff has researched the matter and looked over the existing contract and it specifically states that there will be free parking in that area.  He mentioned that the City sent the River Drive Mall representatives a letter to stop this practice within that area.  He stated that the City is awaiting a response from River Drive Mall to the letter that was sent by the City not to charge for use of the parking facility.

 

      He further mentioned that the terms of the contract and the original intent was to make the mall whole and so the City entered into said contract being that it was beneficial to the mall owner.  He stated that the mall has fallen into a state of disrepair because most shoppers do not park in that area, except for the tractors that have been parking there.  He stated that there is a concern that if these vehicles continue to use this parking space, that this practice will take over all available parking spaces. 

 

      Motion to advice River Drive Mall that the City would like to rescind the contract on Blocks X and Y and that the City work on creating its own parking facility for large vehicles.

 

      Moved:  Cm. Ramirez

      Second:  Cm. Guerra

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

3.  Discussion with possible action to provide permanent security at Los Dos

     Laredos Park.

 

      Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that his department is in the process of opening that parking lot.  They have constructed the base for the temporary booth and that booth should be installed by the end of the week.  They are getting contract labor to get the parking facility open and begin collecting fees.  He mentioned that there has been discussion regarding security especially at night, from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., being that the attendant will be there around the clock.  He also mentioned that this is a temporary booth that is being installed and they are working closely with Frank Architects on the final plans for that area.  They are also looking into adding some video cameras to allow the person to monitor activity within the parking facility. 

 

      Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that once the operation gets started, the concern about vandalism or other activity will be greatly reduced because of the controlled access to get in and out.  There will be employees working there in the area which will discourage people intending to do something other than park from going into the parking lot. 

 

4.  Discussion with possible action regarding the parking problems on San Dario and 

     Santa Ursula from Coke to Lafayette.

 

      Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that he agrees that there is a problem at that location, but City Council wanted the police department to issue citations to those people parked on the sidewalks.  The residents of that area did not speak up when they were going through the process and that is why the City is now facing this issue.  He mentioned that in order to resolve it, some of the residents are going to have to give up their yards.  The other solution may be to petition TxDOT to allow the City the use of  the Sanchez - Park area that has always been vacant. 

 

      Motion to send a letter to TxDOT that the City is requesting use of the Sanchez-Park area as a remedy for the lack of parking availability for its residents.

 

      Moved:  Cm. Ramirez

      Second:  Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

IX.       INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

 

8.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Texas #20 Rural Cellular, Inc.,

d/b/a "US Cellular", for a 30' x 30' ground space at the Scott Street Park located at 302 Scott Street, Laredo, Webb County, Texas and being more fully described in Exhibit "A" of lease agreement to construct on such premises a 70 ft. high self supporting tower and related equipment building for use with its communication business. Term of the lease is five (5) years commencing December 3, 2001 and ending December 2, 2006 with four (4) successive renewal terms of five (5) years.  Annual base rate rent shall be $8,400.00 each year during the term of the lease and will be adjusted by three percent (3%) on each anniversary of the commencement date, providing for effective date.

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

           

X.        FINAL READINGS OF ORDINANCES 

 

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

 

Motion to waive the final reading of Ordinance #2001-O-276, # 2001-O-277 and # 2001-O-278.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

9.  2001-O-276  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002

annual budget in the amount of $180,866 for the Laredo Multi Agency Narcotics Task Force.  Funding is available in the opening balance of the Narcotics Task Force Fund.  Funding in the amount of $92,866 will be used to pay overtime and benefits.  The additional amount of $88,000 will be used to match the grant from November 1, 2001 through May 31, 2002.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-276.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

For:     7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0 

 

 2001-O-277  Amending Chapter 19, Motor Vehicles and Truck Traffic, Article XI Truck

Traffic by specifically amending Section 19-435, Permit Issuance, to  increase the width limits for oversize loads from sixteen feet to seventeen feet and the height limit from fourteen feet six inches to fifteen feet at the World Trade Bridge; providing for severability, an effective date and publication.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-277.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

For:     7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0 

 

2001-O-278  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with ASA

Group, Ltd., for approximately 3.135 acres (136,560.60 square feet) constituting Tract 6 of Block 1 and approximately 3.135 acres (136,560.60 square feet) constituting Tract 7 of Block 1 of the Subdivision Plat of the Laredo International Airport Terminal Subdivision located at the Laredo International Airport.  Lease term is for forty (40) years commencing on December 1, 2001 and ending on November 30, 2041.  Monthly rent shall be $4,100.00 and will be adjusted annually according to changes in the Consumer Price Index and further adjusted by fair market value appraisal on the 10th, 20th and 30th anniversaries; providing for an effective date.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2001-O-278. 

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

For:     7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0 

 

XI.       RESOLUTIONS

 

10.  2001-R-133  Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the United

States Environmental Protection Agency in the amount of $240,000.00 with the City designating $60,00.00 in matching funds for a total of $300,000.00 for the Chacon Creek Stream Restoration Project from Hwy 359 South to the Rio Grande River.  Activities include the removal of  exotic vegetation and man-made debris.  Also, the restoration of native trees, shrubs, grasses and forbs, the construction of natural pools and riffles along with a wetlands interpretive program will be implemented.  Matching funds are available in the NPDES Fund.

 

Motion to approve Resolution 2001-R-133.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                              Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 11.  2001-R-134  Amending the Long Range Thoroughfare Element of the Comprehensive

Plan of the City of Laredo by designating and realigning major streets in South Laredo as part of the Long Range Thoroughfare Plan.

 

Motion to approve Resolution 2001-R-134.

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                              Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                       

12.  2001-R-135  Authorizing the issuance of a permit for a seismic survey, as further

described in attached Exhibit "A".  Seismic cables are to be laid across and down roadways and city streets as situated within the survey boundaries, including Casa Verde Rd., Casa Blanca Rd., University Blvd., Del Mar Blvd., San Ignacio Rd., and right-of-ways as needed in Lakeside, Winfield, D & J Alexander, and Plantation Subdivisions.

 

Motion to approve Resolution 2001-R-135 with an amendment that as part of the Resolution there should be a $2,000.00 fee per linear mile for the use of the public right-of way.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez, Jr.

For:     6                              Against:  0                                Abstain:  1

                                                                                           Cm.  Bruni

 

13.  2001-R-137  Approving the participation of the City of Laredo in the Greater Laredo-

San Antonio Corridor Coalition, Inc. and adoption of the Bylaws for the Corridor Coalition.  The Corridor will be an incorporated non-profit organization comprised of public and private sector members from communities in area counties of Atacosa, Bexar, Frio, LaSalle, Medina and Webb.

 

Motion to approve Resolution 2001-R-137.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                              Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XII.     MOTIONS

 

14.  Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement granting WesternGeco, L.L.C.

a license to conduct a geophysical survey by using receiver cables only on and across airport property being Tract #284517 consisting of approximately 315 acres. Land to be surveyed consists of all land in Abstract Sanchez 284, Guyman 517, Rumsey 654 and GB&CNRR.  WesternGeco shall pay to the City of Laredo Airport Fund $25.00 per acre for a total of $7,875.00 plus an additional amount based on actual supervision by Airport personnel of survey operations conducted inside airport's air operation areas.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     6                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                 Cm.  Bruni 

 

15.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with Roger B. Hartman, d/b/a THC

Utility Management Specialists (THC) in the amount of $32,000 including labor, direct costs, and incidentals to provide technical consulting services during contract negotiations for the privatization of the water and wastewater operations.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0   

 

16.  Consideration for approval of the selection of consultant Flores Engineering Company,

Laredo, Texas, for the CDBG Sidewalks Project No. 20 (43 Blocks) and authorization to negotiate a professional services contract.  Funding is available in the Community Development 27th Action Year Sidewalks.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0   

 

17.  Authorizing the award of a professional services contract in the amount of $65,000 to

Land Design Studio for the Ryan Street Railroad Bridge conversion and Zacate Creek Pedestrian and Bicycle Facility Project.  The consultant will develop an environmental assessment, plans and specifications with cost estimates, and provide engineering construction administration.  The City's contribution of $142,800 is available through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0   

           

18.  Consideration to approve 27 General Fund Third Party Funding contracts.  The

contracts are for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002 and total $530,218.00.

                      

                        Bringing Everyone Special Together                                                      $   14,063

                        Bethany House                                                                                     $   20,000

                        Border Area Nutrition Council                                                              $   35,000

                        Boy's & Girls Club of Laredo                                                               $   90,000

                        Boy Scouts Gulf Coast Council                                                             $   18,000

                        Casa de Misericordia                                                                            $   15,000

                        Catholic Social Services                                                                        $   15,000

                        Club Olympia                                                                                       $     4,500

                        Communities in Schools                                                                        $   15,000

                        Community Action Agency - Elderly Nutrition Program                         $   20,000                              

                        Community Action Agency - Meals on Wheels                                      $   19,000

                        Girl Scouts Paisano Council                                                                  $   10,000  

                        Int'l Sports Hall of Fame                                                                       $     3,600

                        Laredo Crime Stoppers                                                                        $   15,000

                        LISD Campus Crime Stoppers                                                             $     7,500

                        Laredo Little Theater                                                                            $   27,055

                        Laredo Regional Food Bank                                                                 $   20,000

                        Laredo Webb County Food Bank                                                        $   30,000

                        Laredo Webb Neighborhood Housing Service                                      $   15,000

                        Laredo International Fair and Exposition                                               $     4,500

                        Literacy Volunteers of America                                                             $     7,000

                        Rio Grande International Study Center                                                  $   20,000

                        Rio Grande/Rio Bravo Basin Coalition                                                  $     5,000

                        Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center                                                     $   75,000                    

                        Sacred Heart Children's Home                                                              $     5,000

                        South Texas Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse                                  $   10,000                     

                        Webb County American Red Cross                                                      $   10,000

 

Motion to approve.

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0   

 

19.  Consideration to approve 15 Hotel/Motel Fund Third Party Funding contracts.  The  

contracts are for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2001 through September 30, 2002 and total $410,515.         

 

Laredo Chamber of Commerce - Cola Blanca                                      $   10,000

                        LULAC #7                                                                                          $     5,000 

                        LULAC #12                                                                                        $     5,000

                        Society of Martha Washington                                                              $   10,000      

                        Washington's Birthday Celebration Association                                     $   23,000

                        Washington's B-Day Celebration Assoc. Museum                                 $   15,000

Laredo Children's Museum                                                                   $   50,000

Webb County Heritage Foundation                                                       $   60,000

Laredo Center for the Arts                                                                    $ 131,360

L.C.C. Dance/Music Community Productions                                       $   32,815

Laredo Philharmonic Chorale                                                                $     2,340

Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra                                                             $   37,000

                        T.A.M.I.U. Dance Productions                                                             $   10,000

Border Olympics                                                                                  $     9,000

Streets of Laredo Urban Mall                                                               $   10,000

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Bruni

Second:  Cm.  Agredano

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0   

XIII.   ADJOURNMENT

 

      Motion to approve.                                                                                           Time:  8:10 p.m.

 

            Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez, Jr.

            Second:  Cm.  Agredano

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 20 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on November 26, 2001.

 

                                                                  _____________________________________

                                                                  Gustavo Guevara, Jr.   

                                                                  City Secretary