CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2002-R-013
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
JULY 1, 2002
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
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo Agredano, Mayor
Pro Tempore, District I
Hector Garcia, Council
Member, District II
John C. Galo, Council
Member, District III
Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V
Gene Belmares, 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 May 20,
2002.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Ramirez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
Cm. Garcia congratulated the Laredo
Community College on the groundbreaking for their second campus. He also thanked Chief Dovalina and his staff
for joining him along with United Independent School District for providing
input on training sessions being scheduled with school administrators.
Cm. Galo submitted reports from the
Southwest Texas Rain Enhancement Association for Flight numbers 33 through
42.
Cm. Amaya urged everyone to have a safe
and happy Independence Day celebration.
Cm. Eliseo Valdez, Jr. thanked city
staff for the great job done in putting together the workshop last
weekend. He also asked the community
for prayers for those missionaries who were involved in a serious traffic
accident.
Cm. Belmares extended his gratitude to
Deputy Chief Fructuoso San Miguel and
Keith Selman, Planning Director, for attending a meeting with Del Mar
residents.
Mayor Flores expressed her condolences
to the families of Coach Barton and Dan Hinojosa for their loss. Mayor Flores also provided a brief review
of the Strategic Planning Session held by City Council last weekend. She thanked the Council Members for their
vision in planning for Laredo’s needs and anticipated issues for the years 2010
and 2020. She stated that the
workshops fostered a renewed sense of commitment among City Council and staff
to work together as a team for common goals.
Invitations
Cm. Ramirez invited everyone to the July
4th celebration at Veterans Field.
He mentioned that there will be two baseball games featuring the
All-Stars from South Texas. There will
also be a fireworks display following the games.
Recognitions
a.
Recognition of City employees for their participation and contribution
to the 2002
American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services
Director, recognized the participants from the
various city departments:
Donna Magnon Most
Money Raised by an Individual
City Manager’s Office and Most Money Raised by a Team
City Secretary’s Office
Larry Dovalina Special Recognition
The following employees were also recognized
for their efforts:
The Steering Committee members include Linda Teniente, Blasita
Lopez, Lucia Antu, Eddie Zavala, Robert Eads, Sylvia Arrellano, Anita Stanley,
and Donna Magnon.
The Parks and Recreation Department participants include Santiago
Loa, crew leader, and his staff who set up the tents.
The Mayor’s Office staff which assisted with the team registration
fees.
The Environmental Services Department and El Metro staffs which
purchased the team t-shirts for
the participants.
For top contributors in the $4,999.00 category:
Donna Magnon City Secretary’s Office
Celina Rivera/Gloria Garza Parks & Recreation Dept.
Sylvia Arrellano Health Department
For top contributor in the $3,999.00
category:
Osvaldo Guzman Community
Development
For top contributor in the $2,999.00 category:
Evelyn Luciano Bridge Department
For most funds raised by an individual category:
Donna Magnon City Secretary’s Office
Cordy Barrera mentioned that total
contributions this year were $76,004.00.
She further
stated that the City’s contributions collected totalled
$28,629.62, a significant increase from last year’s contribution of
$11,256.00. She presented Mayor Flores
with a small token of appreciation for the contribution of her first month’s
check to the organization.
Communiqués
a.
Appreciation of City of Laredo Code Enforcement employees by Judge Oscar
Martinez for their efforts in
keeping Laredo beautiful.
Judge
Oscar Martinez stated that these individuals worked every Sunday for the past
three years in a program known as “Keep Laredo and Webb County Clean”. They not only perform community work but
they also provide counseling and guidance.
He recognized the following employees for their dedication to the
program:
Elda
Rivera Eusebio
Benavides
Rolando
Perez Carina
Ramos
Lauro
Valle, Jr. Luis
Villa
Mario
A. Gutierrez Raul R. Garcia
Mario
Casarez
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
a.
Appointments
by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores to Laredo Housing Authority.
Motion to confirm the appointment of Maria del Carmen Rodriguez as
Project Resident representative.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
b.
Appointment by Council Member Johnny Amaya of Tomas M. Rodriguez, Jr. to
the
Transportation and Traffic Safety Advisory Committee.
Motion to confirm the appointment.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
c. Appointment by Council
Member Hector J. Garcia of Rosie Centeno to the Vehicles for
Hire Ad Hoc Committee.
Motion to confirm the
appointment.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
d. Appointment by Council
Member Hector J. Garcia of Chantal Cantu AIA to the
Cemetery Advisory
Committee.
Motion to confirm the
appointment.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC
HEARINGS
1. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit
to East Country Limited for a mini-storage facility on 3.8955 acres, as further
described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit "A", located at the
3500 Block of Del Mar Blvd.; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed Special Use Permit with a condition.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ray Rodriguez, attorney for East Country Limited, stated that they
are asking for issuance of the Special Use Permit.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce as a Special Use Permit.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
Cm. Belmares
2. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Code of
Ordinances, Chapter 15, Health and Sanitation, Article VI, Tattoo
and Body Piercing, providing definitions, establishing a tattoo and body
piercing permit program; providing for exemption from requirements, terms of
permits, terms of renewal, terms of denial, and terms of suspension or
revocation; providing for injunctive relief and severability; authorizing fee
of $100.00 for tattoo or body piercing permits; and $200.00 for a combined
studio permit for issuance or annual renewal of permits, and a $10.00 fee for
replacement; authorizing a penalty for violation of this Ordinance; providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
3. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Ordinance No. 97-O-114
authorizing the City of Laredo Health Department to increase the
fee from $10.00 to $20.00 per person not registered in a clinic as Health
Department patients for phlebotomy services at the Health Department
Laboratory; and providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Belmares
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
4. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Chapter 15, Health and Sanitation,
of the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances by amending Article VII,
Swimming Pool Permit, providing definitions;
establishing a swimming pool permit, terms of swimming pool permit,
establishing authority to inspect swimming pools, authorizing a fee of $100 for
issuance or renewal of a swimming pool permit, authorizing a fee of $10 for
issuance of duplicate permits; terms of renewal, terms of denial, and terms of
suspension or revocaton; providing a waiver of permit fee to the City of Laredo
Parks and Recreation Department; providing for injunctive relief and
severability; authorizing a penalty for violation of this Ordinance; and providing
for publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Belmares
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
5. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002
annual budget by appropriating additional funds in the amount of
$212,470.00 from the Texas Department of Health for the HIV/AIDS Ryan White
Project of the City of Laredo Health Department and extending the grant period
from April 1, 2002 through August 31, 2002 to April 1, 2002 through March 31,
2003.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
6. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002
annual budget by appropriating revenues in the amount of
$39,337.00 in additional funds for the HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities for
Persons with AIDS Project of the City of Laredo Health Department to extend the
program period from February 1, 2002, through August 31, 2002, to February 1,
2002, through January 31, 2003.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council
7. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Section 13-21 definitions, Article
II (Food Products Establishments) Division 1 (Generally) of
Chapter 13 (Food and Food Products) of the Code of Ordinances to revise the
definition of a food products establishment, providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Cm. Belmares
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
8. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Section 13-39, (Fees) of Division 2,
License of Article II (Food Products Establishments) of Chapter 13
(Food and Food Products) of the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances to increase
the annual license fee to be paid by a food establishment, which will continue
to be based on the number of employees per establishment. Establishing a fee of $50.00 for a new food
establishment application and fee of $25.00 for request for inspection
services, providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
9. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Code of
Ordinances, Section 13-81 (Fees) of Article IV, Permitting of Food
Service Operator, Chapter 13, Food and Food Products to raise the fee of ten
($10.00) to thirty ($30.00) for a Food Service Operator Permit; providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Ramirez
There was no public input.
Motion to close the hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Ramirez
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council except Cm. Ramirez
10. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept a
reimbursement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in
the amount of $19,717.00 for overtime expenses and amend the City of Laredo's
FY 2001-2002 annual budget in the amount of $19,717.00 to fund the Laredo
Border Region Violent Crime Task Force (LBRVCTF). The Laredo Police Department will assign one Investigator and one
Police Officer to the Task Force.
Reimbursement of overtime expenses will commence on October 1, 2001
through September 30, 2002.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
Agredano
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Ordinance No. 90-O-177 by
increasing the fee of $8.00 to $15.00 per sample for the
bacteriological analysis of water and allowing for a waiver of the fee to the
Health Department; and providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm.
Belmares
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Amaya
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council except Cm.
Amaya
12. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Laredo Code of Ordinances,
Chapter 2 (Administration) Article I (In General) Section 2-3
(Fees for City Services)
Subsection (b), increasing the fee for certified birth
certificates from $11.00 to $13.00 to include an administrative fee; providing
for severability; and providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Belmares
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Ramirez
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council except Cm.
Ramirez
13. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Laredo Code of Ordinances,
Section 13-58(e) (Issuance of Food Handler's Certificates) of
Division 3 (Employees) of Article II (Food Products Establishments) of Chapter
13, Food and Food Products to raise the annual fee of $8.50 to $20.00 for a Food Handler Certificate, and
establish a fee of five dollars ($5.00) for a duplicate Food Handler Certificate, and extend the effective period from one (1) year to two
(2) years, providing for publication
and effective date.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 6 Against: 2
Abstain: 0
Cm. Ramirez
Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr.
Ordinance
Introduction: 9 Except Cm. Ramirez and Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
14. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept and
execute all documentation from the Texas Department of Health for
the Bio-Terrorism
Preparedness Program of the City of Laredo Health Department in
the amount of $411,076.00 in additional funds for the period beginning June 1,
2002, through August 31, 2003, and amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002
budget in the same amount; and authorizing the City Manager to amend the City
of Laredo's full-time equivalent positions by creating 1 - Senior
Epidemiologist; 1 - Public Health Technician; 2 - Registered Nurse II; 1.25 -
Sanitarians; and 1 - Health Educator, which will be funded by this grant, and
will serve Webb, Duval, Zapata and Jim Hogg Counties.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
15. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo's FY 2001-
2002 annual budget in the Capital Improvements Fund by
appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $80,000.00 which are
being donated by Paul Young Properties, LTD., to fund the installation and
activation of a traffic signal on U.S. Highway 59 at Casa Blanca Road and the
entrance to Paul Young Auto Mall, and authorizing the City Manager to implement
said budget.
Motion to open the public
hearing.
Moved: Cm.
Agredano
Second: Cm.
Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm.
Agredano
Second: Cm.
Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
16. A. Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya
1.
Discussion with possible action regarding McPherson widening project.
Cm.
Amaya stated that the complaints have already been addressed.
Rogelio
Rivera, City Engineer, reported that he had submitted a status report on the
project. He mentioned this is a
widening project on both sides of the roadway which requires dealing with the
utility poles and telephone pedestals on certain blocks and relocation of lines. He mentioned that the project is
approximately 85 % complete and that he is still working on some acquisitions
in certain areas. He is anticipating
completion of the project in 45 days.
2. Discussion with
possible action regarding a traffic study on Allende St. behind
Retama II.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that they had had one
of the residents call his department
back in October, 2001, asking that speed humps be installed in that area on
Allende St. The process for
consideration of speed humps was explained to the resident but the department
never received a letter requesting the speed humps. In March of this year, the process was explained to the resident
through a hand-delivered letter to the resident. In order to consider installation of speed humps, the department
would need some signatures from the residents.
B. Request by Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Presentation by Luis
Guerra on a proposed sports complex for the City of Laredo
with private sector participation, with possible action. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Gene
Belmares)
Luis Guerra, Jr., representing a new committee of the Laredo
Chamber of Commerce called Laredo Diamonds which was created to support this
project. This property is on a 45-acre
tract of land east of McPherson Medical Building. The developers are asking the City to contribute $1,800,000.00 to
assist them with the infrastructure component of the project.
Motion to instruct staff to proceed in working with this
organization to make this project feasible.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez,
Jr.
1. Discussion with
possible action to develop an area park behind Farias Recreation
Center.
Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that his
department did visit the site but there is no funding currently available for
this project.
Motion to instruct staff to look into creating a design for the
park and identify a funding source for this project.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Belmares
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2.
Status report on the widening of Rancho Viejo Drive, with possible
action.
Rogelio
Rivera, City Engineer, reported that he turned in a cost estimate for this
project which is approximately $93,000.00.
He mentioned that the only item pending is whether removal of the island
is necessary in order to have stacking room.
Motion
to bring this item back for the first City Council meeting in August.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1.
Discussion with possible action regarding heavy truck traffic on
Jefferson Street.
Police
Chief Agustin Dovalina reported that the department has issued almost one
thousand citations for truck route violations in the 2001-2002 year. They continue to monitor and randomly deploy
the traffic section officers to continue issuing citations. He has also advised the officers assigned to
that area to continue with issuance of citations and to be extra vigilant,
specifically when school is in session.
He will try to bring back the public service announcements to advise the
public of the truck route that is being violated.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that they had taken
this concern to the Transportation Advisory Committee to consider the
possibility of moving the truck traffic from Jefferson Street. Their recommendation was to leave it alone
for now because once you close a truck route it will create some problems if
there is no alternative for the trucks.
Motion to instruct staff to remove Jefferson Street from the truck
route.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 6 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Agredano
Cm.
Belmares
2. Discussion with possible action regarding
planting trees on Iturbide between San
Agustin
and Flores and possibly through Convent.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, reported that staff has to make sure
that they find
out where the right-of-way is on this particular street. Once staff has done the survey, if City
Council wants to take action to plant the trees, then the funds can be taken
from the Council Member’s discretionary funds.
Motion to survey the area for right-of-way
ownership, plant the trees, if
allowed, with District VIII
discretionary funds.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
17. Introductory Ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with SER Jobs
for Progress Southwest Texas, Inc., for approximately 6,102 square
feet of office space constituting Suite No. 9 and approximately 450 square feet
of storage area constituting Suite No. 10 of Building No. 134 located at 4603
Maher Avenue. Lease term is for two (2)
years commencing on December 1, 2001 and ending on November 30, 2003 and lease
may be terminated by either party upon giving a ninety (90) day written notice
from the party terminating to the other.
Monthly rent shall be $5,800.00 commencing on December 1, 2001 and ending
on November 30, 2002 and monthly rent shall be $6,245.00 commencing on December
1, 2002 and ending November 30, 2003; providing for publication and effective
date.
Ordinance Introduction: Removed from introduction and will be re-introduced correctly as per Mayor.
18. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a lease with Webb County for approximately
380 square feet of office space constituting Suite No. 9 of
Building No. S-1 located at 1718 E.
Calton Road at the Laredo International Airport. Lease term is for one (1) year commencing on March 1, 2002 and
ending on February 28, 2003 and may be extended for one (1) year ending
February 29, 2004. Monthly rent shall
be $494.00 and will be adjusted annually during the primary and extension term
of this lease according to changes in the Consumer Price Index; providing for
publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council except Cm. Amaya
19. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a lease between the City of Laredo Airport
Fund, as Lessor, and the City of Laredo Environmental Department,
as Lessee, for approximately 400 square feet constituting Suite No. 8 of
Building No. S-1 located at 1718 E. Calton Road at the Laredo International
Airport. Lease term is for six (6)
months commencing on April 1, 2002 and ending on September 30, 2002. Monthly rent shall be $520.00; providing for
an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
20. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey
a 3,382.41 sq. ft. parcel of land to AEP/Central Power and Light
Company, as an easement, for the installation of certain underground electric
service facilities to serve the premises at 6415 Sinatra Parkway in Laredo,
Texas. Said 3,382.41 square foot parcel
being out of and a part of Lot 4, Block 2, Jacaman Ranch, Unit 3, Laredo
Entertainment Center Subdivision, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; being
generally described below, and more particularly described by metes and bounds
on attached Exhibit "A", and providing for an effective date. Being a CP&L Easement containing
3,382.41sq. ft. (0.0776 of an acre) of
land, more or less, being out of and a part of Lot No. 4, Block No. 2, Jacaman
Ranch, Unit 3, Laredo Entertainment Center Subdivision, recorded in Volume 21,
Page 68, Plat Records of Webb County, Texas.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
21. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey
fee simple title to Mary Furrh Gomez, Rafael Gomez and Molly E.
Gomez, for the "Surface Only" of certain City property being
generally described as those former street sections being Mendiola Avenue
between Palo Blanco & Bayard Streets excluding the intersections and that
former street section being Thurman Street between Tapeyste & Mendiola
Avenues, provided that the City of Laredo retains a 40 foot-wide Sanitary Sewer
Easement on that section of Mendiola Avenue between Palo Blanco & Thurman
Streets. All said former street
sections situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas;
being generally described on the attached excerpt of a City plat and providing
for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
22. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a lease renewal with United Exports Trading
Association (U.E.T.A.) of Texas, Inc. for approximately 2,526
square feet out of Lot 10, Block 22, in the Western Division, City of Laredo,
Webb County, Texas, lying Northeast of the concrete pavement connecting Salinas
Street with Water Street.
1. Lease term is for one
(1) year commencing on April 1, 2002 and ending March 31,
2003.
2.
Monthly rent will be $720.00
3. City of Laredo may
terminate this lease within ninety (90) days written notice.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
23. Appointment of an
Associate Municipal Court Judge for the City of Laredo for a limit
of two (2) years;
providing for effective date.
Mayor Flores read the list of candidates:
Jose Arce Alonzo
Ramos
Homero Martinez Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina
Belinda Mendez
Motion to postpone this
item until next City Council meeting.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 3 Against: 5 Abstain: 0
Mayor Pro Tem
Agredano
Cm.
Garcia
Cm.
Galo
Cm.
Amaya
Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
Motion to postpone and
schedule a special City Council meeting for Friday, July 5,
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to approve the final reading of Ordinances #2002-O-126,
#2002-O-127, #2002-O-128, #2002-O-129, #2002-O-130, #2002-O-131, # 2002-O-132,
# 2002-O-133, # 2002-O-134, # 2002-O-135, # 2002-O-136, # 2002-O-137, #
2002-O-138, # 2002-O-139, # 2002-O-140 and # 2002-O-141.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. 2002-O-126 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by
authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit to Larinco, Ltd.
for a mini-storage facility on 3.47 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds in attached Exhibit "A", located south of Jacaman Road and
west of Saldaña Avenue; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed Special Use Permit with conditions.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-126.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-127 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning
Lots 7 and 8, Block
1149, Eastern Division, located at 2020 Chihuahua
St., from R-O
(Residential/Office 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 adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-127.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-128 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by
authorizing the
issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a drapery shop on
Lot 7, Block 251,
Eastern Division, located at 1802 Cedar Avenue;
providing for
publication and effective date. (As
amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-128.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-129 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by
authorizing the
issuance of Conditional Use Permit for a used car lot on
Lot 8, Block 364,
Western Division located at 1819 San Eduardo Avenue;
providing for
publication and effective date. (As
amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-129.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-130 Amending the
City of Laredo FY 2001-2002 budget by appropriating
additional revenues in the amount of $8,190.00 for the
Tuberculosis Prevention/Control Federal Project of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning January 1, 2002, through December 31,
2002.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-130.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-131 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002 budget by appropriating
additional funds in the amount of $41,836.00 for the HIV/AIDS
Health and Social Services Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning September 1, 2001 through August 31, 2002.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-131.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-132 Amending Chapter 30 of the Code of Ordinance
of the City of Laredo,
Texas to include
Section 30-4 Credit Card Payment
Processing Fee to
establish a credit card
payment-processing fee for the payment of property
taxes. The fee will be based on the amount of
payment processed. (As
amended)
Motion to postpone.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-133 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2001-2002
Veteran's Field Fund annual
budget
by appropriating revenues in the amount of $18,000.00 from
General Fund and appropriating the expenditure line item for the
Tecolotes de Los Dos Laredos contract by $18,000.00. The transfer is for
the
increases in Immigration and Naturalization fees, American Consulate
fees,
and Mexican Consulate fees pertinent to bridge crossings.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-133.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-134 Authorizing the City
Manager to amend the City of Laredo's 2001-2002
annual budget in the
amount of $5,204.00 to fund the Laredo Multi-
Agency Narcotics Task
Force and amend the current number of grant
funded Full-Time
Equivalent positions from 11 to 11.5 with the addition of
.5 for a Custodian. The Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice
Division
will be designating
$998,115.00, and the City of Laredo and participating
agencies will designate
$334,778.00 in matching funds for a total amount
of $1,332,893.00. Funding will be used to pay salaries, fringe
benefits,
direct operating expenses
and equipment from June 1, 2002 through May
31, 2003; and accepting
the grant in the same amount.
Motion to adopt Ordinance
# 2002-O-134.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-135 Accepting
a grant awarded from the United States Department of Justice,
Community Oriented
Policing Services in the amount of $3,000,000.00
And amending the City of
Laredo's FY 2001-2002 annual budget in the
amount of $5,308,520.00
to fund the COPS program, and amending the
City of Laredo FY 2001-2002 Full Time
Equivalent Positions by adding
40 Patrol Officers
Cadets. The United States Department of
Justice will
be designating
$3,000,000.00 and the City of Laredo will be designating
$2,308,520.00 in matching funds for a total
of $5,308,520.00 for a three
year funding period of the "Universal
Hiring" program beginning March
1, 2002 through
February 28, 2005. (As amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance
# 2002-O-135.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-136 Accepting a grant awarded by the Criminal
Justice Division, Office of the
Governor for the amount
of $51,652.00 and amending the City of Laredo's
2001-2002 annual budget
in the amount of $299.00 to fund the Juvenile
Accountability
Incentive Block Grant. The Office of
the Governor,
Criminal Justice
Division is contributing $51,652.00 with the City of
Laredo designating
$5,739.00 in matching funds. This
funding will be
used to pay for the
salaries and fringe benefits of an Administrative
Assistant II position
and to purchase the necessary equipment to expand
information within its
current intelligence database for its juvenile
program. Grant period is from August 1, 2002 through
July 31, 2003.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-136.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-137 Closing as public easements those sections
of: Mendiola Avenue between
Palo Blanco and Bayard
Street, excluding the intersections; and Thurman
Street between Tapeyste
and Mendiola Avenues all situated in the Eastern
Division, City of
Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and providing for an
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-137.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-138 Closing as public easement that section of
Urbahn Avenue between Palo
Blanco and Thurman
Streets situated in the Eastern Division, City of
Laredo, Webb County,
Texas, and providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-138.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-139 Authorizing the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents to
effectively convey fee
simple title to the "Surface Only" at its market
value of $7,494.00.00, for certain property described
as a 4,654.82 sq. ft.
tract of land, more or
less, out of the south 83.78' of McDonnell Avenue
between Ryan and Taylor
Streets to Manuel Patiño, Jr. and wife Margarita
G. Patiño said tract of
land situated in the Eastern Division, City of
Laredo, Webb County,
Texas; being described on Exhibit "A"; and
providing for an
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-139.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-140 Authorizing
the City Manager to execute a lease with Aura Inc., d/b/a The
Education Center for
approximately 4,308 square feet constituting
Building No. 1169
located at 4407 Foster Avenue located at the Laredo
International Airport. Lease term is for six (6) months commencing
July
1, 2002 and ending on
December 31, 2002. Monthly rent shall
be
$2,100.00; providing
for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-140.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-141 Authorizing the
City Manager to execute a lease with Dairy Process, Inc.
for approximately 2,600
square feet constituting Building 1006 located at
4608 Daugherty Avenue. Lease term is for ten (10) years commencing
on
July 1, 2002 and ending
on June 30, 2012 and may be extended for two
(2) terms of five (5)
years each ending on June 30, 2017 and June 30,
2022. However, Lessee may terminate lease upon
giving a 60-day written
notice to Lessor. Monthly rent shall be $650.00 and will be
adjusted
annually according to
changes in the Consumer Price Index and further
adjusted by Fair Market
Value appraisal on the tenth (10th) anniversary;
providing for an
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2002-O-141.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
25. 2002-R-054 Adopting the list of capital improvement
projects which will be submitted
to the South Texas Development Council for incorporation in the
Overall Economic Development Program Plan (OEDP) to be provided to the U.S.
Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) for potential
funding consideration and further authorizing the City Manager to submit a
pre-application and a follow-up grant application as may be directed by EDA and
to execute any and all related documents in support of the same. Projects named include:
1.
La Barranca Industrial Park - 16" Waterline Extension
2.
Bartlett Avenue Extension from Gale to Del Mar Blvd.
3.
El Portal Riverfront Development Project
4. Airport Medical Park Development Phase III (this
project is not included in the resolution adoption)
Motion to approve Resolution # 2002-R-054.
Moved:
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second:
Cm. Belmares
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. 2002-R-056 Accepting the donation of the "Surface
Only" of a 0.1352 of an acre
parcel of land from Juan Ramirez Properties, Ltd., for the Upper
Zacate Creek Improvements Project. Said
parcel of land being out of Survey 1021, Abstract 64, Northern Division, City
of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; being generally described below, and more
particularly described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit
"A". Being a tract of land
containing 0.1352 acres (5891.07 sq. ft.), more or less, situated in Survey
1021, Abstract 64, GB & CNG RY CO., Original Grantee, Northern Division,
City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Said 0.1352 acres being out of a 1.4328-acre tract of land, recorded in
Vol. 1110, Pages 699-701, Webb County Deed Records.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2002-R-056.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Agredano
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. 2002-R-059 Directing publication of Notice of Intention
to issue City of Laredo, Texas
Combination Tax and Revenue Certificate of Obligation, Series
2002, in the principal amount of $9,965,000.00 for paying all or a portion of
the City's Contractual Obligations for the purpose of acquisition of downtown
property to be used for future municipal offices; acquisition of the Slaughter
Farm land to be used for municipal park space including sports
fields, nature trails and other park recreational uses;
acquisition of land in
northeast of Laredo to be used for a municipal solid waste
landfill; acquisition of land for the Laredo International Fire and Law
Enforcement Training Center; acquisition of downtown property including
improvements for a surface municipal parking lot, and for the payment of legal,
fiscal, architectural and engineering fees in connection with such projects.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2002-R-059.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Agredano
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
II. MOTIONS
28. Authorizing the City
Manager to grant a permit for a public fireworks display at
Veteran's Field on
July 4, 2002 at 9:15 p.m. to Atlas Enterprises, Inc.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with the sole
source provider, Transcore, Inc., in an amount not to exceed
$100,000.00 for the software upgrade needed to convert revenue reporting system
from one based on deposits to one based on actual traffic volumes. Funding is available in the Toll Equipment
account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Authorizing the City
Manager to amend the contract with Hawkins, Delafield & Wood
in an amount not to exceed $118,216.80 for compensation for hours
of services rendered in connection with contract negotiations pertaining to the
privatization of water and wastewater operations from April 17, 2002 through
May 8, 2002.
Motion to approve..
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 5 Against: 4 Abstain: 0
Cm. Agredano Cm. Garcia
Cm. Galo Cm. Amaya
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr.
Cm. Belmares Cm. Ramirez
Mayor voted in favor.
31. Consideration to award
contract number FY 02-119 to the low bidder, Dooley
Tackaberry, Inc., Deer Park, Texas, in the amount of $32,000.00
for the purchase of twelve sets of self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
for the Fire Department. Bid pricing
for this contract was secured using a reverse auction format. Funding is available from the PPFCO
Contractual Obligation bond proceeds.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Amending the HOME
Investment Partnership Program Policy and Procedures Manual
as it pertains to
Down Payment Assistance. The following
changes are proposed:
1. To allow the maximum
loan amount of $15,000 (an increase from $9,000) to be
provided to households
with incomes at 60% or below area median income;
2. To allow for a maximum
loan amount of $12,000 provided to households with
incomes above 60% and
up to 70% of area median family income.
3. To allow the maximum
loan amount of $9,000 (an increase from $6,000)
provided to households with incomes above 70% and up to 80% of
area median family income.
4. To change the manner in
which the down payment assistance loans are
processed, by allowing application intake to be provided by
participating mortgage/finance companies.
Department of Community Development staff will continue to process and
approve all applications.
5. To allow participants
under the HOME Down Payment Assistance program to
refinance the existing mortgage loan provided that the structure
of the down payment assistance loan remains the same.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33.
Consideration
to award contract number FY 02-118 to the low bidders, Dr. Ike's Home
Center, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $24,074.00;
Laredo Steel, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $15,225.00; and Alamo
Iron Works, San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $7,151.00 for providing rebar
and wire mesh for a six month period.
This contract establishes contract pricing for these materials used for
construction or repair projects scheduled during the next six months. All materials will be purchased on an as
needed basis. Funding is available in
the Public Works budget and Capital Improvements Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Consideration to award
a construction contract to the sole bidder, Pete Gallegos Paving,
Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Lafayette Street Park Project in the
negotiated bid amount of $248,808.50.
Funding is available in the Lafayette Linear Park Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35.
Consideration for approval to award a professional services contract to
ASD Art, Inc.,
(Armando Hinojosa Artist/Sculptor), Laredo, Texas, for an amount
not to exceed $150,000.00 for design and preparation of plans and
specifications and for construction of the Veteran's Monument Project. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvements Fund, Veteran's Monument Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Consideration to award
contract FY 02-116 to Lamar Advertising, Laredo, Texas, for
outdoor billboard advertising in the annual cost of $26,279.00 for
rental and vinyl production, and authorizing the City Manager to sign all
contract documents. The term of the
contract will be for one year with an option to renew for two, additional
one-year terms. These billboards are
part of the Laredo airline marketing strategy.
Billboards will be contracted for the corridors: Corpus Christi to San Antonio and Eagle Pass
to Laredo and in Zapata, Texas. Funding
is available in the Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau billboard advertising
account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Ratify and approve
action taken by the City Manager on May 7, 2002 to issue an
emergency purchase order for the repair of two 350 hp motors at
the Jefferson Street Water Treatment Plant, Raw Water Intake Structure. The cost to repair these pumps was
$32,762.85.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm.
Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORTS
38. Presentation by Robert
Murillo, Traffic Director, regarding the recent video and data
enhancements to the
centralized traffic management center.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic
Director, made a power point presentation before City
Council as follows:
Closed Loop System
In 1994, the City of
Laredo Traffic Safety Department initiated the installation of a
computerized closed loop
system in the Central Business District for communication
between the traffic
signal controllers and the traffic management center.
Traffic Management
Center
·
In 1998,
Traffic Safety conducted research of several communication systems that would
integrate with our existing CBD system
·
Based on the
information gathered, a new data wireless radio communication system was found
to be compatible with our existing system
·
The City’s
I-Net was used as a backbone to initiate video communications to the traffic
management center
·
There are
currently 98 out of 243 traffic signals in our communication network
·
There are 7
data repeater stations used in this network
·
Currently
there are 9 video cameras that are used to monitor traffic movements
Benefits to a Traffic Management Center
·
Monitor
traffic movement on major intersections
·
Have the
capability to modify/adjust timing patterns from central location
·
Maintain
traffic controllers on arterials in synchronization with each other
·
Faster
response time to signal malfunctions
Our Goal
·
Have 100% of
the traffic signals incorporated to the traffic management center
·
Have access
to the Texas Department of Transportation management center
·
Install
video surveillance cameras on major intersections
XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive
session at any time during this public meeting, if such is requested by the
City Attorney or other legal counsel for the City, pursuant to his or her duty
under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult privately with his
or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out of such
item.
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. Amaya
Second: Cm. Ramirez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration for
approval to award a professional services contract to Porras
Engineering Company, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed
$18,116.00 for design and preparation of plans and specifications for the City
of Laredo Sidewalks Project No. 18.
Funding is available in the Transit System Capital Grant #456
Improvements Other Than Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second:
Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and convene as
the Laredo City Water Local Government Corporation.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against:
0 Abstain: 0
XVI. RECESS
AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY WATER LOCAL GOVERNMENT CORPORATION
40. 2002-RW-004 Authorizing the President of the Laredo City
Water Local Government
Corporation ("LWC") to expand the Advance Authorization
to Proceed ("AATP") agreement with MHW Americas, Inc. for interim
work and extend AATP for 45 days to finalize negotiations for the Secondary
Water Supply Agreement.
Motion to approve Resolution 2002-RW-004 with 60 days.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo City Water Local Government
Corporation and reconvene as City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Time: 8:16 p.m.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify that
the above minutes contained in pages 01 through 27 are true, complete and
correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on July 1, 2002.
___________________________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary