CITY OF LAREDO
CITY
COUNCIL MEETING
M2002-R-022
CITY
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
NOVEMBER 18, 2002
5:30
P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor
Elizabeth 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, 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
Cynthia Collazo, Assistant
City Manager
Jaime Flores, City
Attorney
IV. MINUTES
None.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
a. Musical performance by
Nye Elementary Choir.
Mayor
Flores introduced the music ambassadors comprised of 95 school children known
as Voices Across Texas. She mentioned
that their music brings forth a message of patriotism and peace to the
community. This impressive school
endeavor is spearheaded by Irma Flores,
Principal, and Sonia Morales, Music Director.
The choir performed a short musical number for the City Council and
members of the audience.
Invitations
a. Presentation by H.E.B.
regarding Feast of Sharing Thanksgiving Dinner scheduled for
November 24, 2002 at
the Laredo Civic Center at 11:00 a.m.
Pedro
Gaytan and Rocio Lozano, Co-Chairs for
the H.E.B. Feast of Sharing, extended a personal invitation to the Laredo
community to attend the 14th Annual Feast of Sharing to be held on
November 24, 2002, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Laredo Civic Center. Rocio Lozano stated that they will be
serving 12,000 meals with 2,500 of those meals being delivered to homebound
residents of the community. She stated
that an added feature at this year’s event will be the distribution of free flu
vaccines for anyone 14 years of age and older. She mentioned that this event is being held in conjunction with
the City of Laredo and invited everyone in the community to attend.
Recognitions
Communiqués
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano expressed his
gratitude to all those who participated last Monday at the Veterans Day
Parade. He thanked all the veterans
present and the different organizations that participated to make the event a
success.
Cm. Galo wanted to wish everyone a Happy
Thanksgiving holiday with their family.
Cm. Amaya congratulated Coach Goyo Lopez
and his staff at J. W. Nixon High for their success and a third victory at the
bi-district championship. He also
wished everyone a safe and pleasant Thanksgiving holiday.
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. wished everyone a
Happy Thanksgiving and reminded everyone to give thanks for their blessings.
Cm. Belmares congratulated Borchers
Elementary and U.I.S.D. administrators for their dedication of the new school.
He also congratulated all the students who participated in the boys and
girls flag football season this year.
He thanked all the coaches and volunteers who invested of their time in
order to make the flag football league a success.
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. thanked the
children’s choir for their performance before City Council. He expressed his thanks to the parents as
well for doing an outstanding job with their children in supporting and encouraging
their children’s interests.
Cm. Ramirez wished everyone a Happy
Thanksgiving holiday and urged everyone who is traveling to be careful when
driving.
Mayor Flores mentioned that during the
Thanksgiving season, the community has been asked to participate in a special
project known as “Feed America Thursday”.
She explained that the premise of Feed America Thursday is to ask
everyone to not eat for two meals on that Thursday. The purpose for fasting would be to donate the money that would
have been spent or the food that would have been eaten for those two meals to a
local food bank or a homeless shelter.
Even those who choose to eat are still encouraged to give the value of
two meals to a charity that provides food to people in need. Mayor Flores added that this is an
opportunity to support the food banks and stock up their reserves so that they
might help more people every day of the year.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
None.
VII. PUBLIC
HEARINGS
1. Individual public
hearings for the voluntary annexation of five (5) tracts of land totaling
679.71 acres, more or less, and the unilateral annexation of one
(1) tract of land totaling 607.02 acres, more or less, for a total of 1,286.73
acres, more or less, as described in the attached tract summaries as required
by Section 43.063 of the Texas Government Code.
Voluntary Annexations:
Tract 2: E.G. Ranch
Tract- 214.90 acres, more or less, located south of SH 359 and west
of the City landfill.
Petitioner: E.G. Ranch, Ltd.
Motion
to open the public hearing on Tract 2.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Agredano
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion
to close the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 3: Las Misiones
Tract- 83.0116 acres, more or less, located south SH 359 and west
of the City landfill.
Petitioners: Mr. Rene Soliz and Mr. A.R. "Tony" Sanchez
Motion
to open the public hearing on Tract 3.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion
to close the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 4: Piña Tract -
120.13 acres, more or less, located east of IH 35 and south of the IH
35/US 83 intersection.
Petitioner: Librado Piña & Lilia Piña Family Partnership.
Motion to open the public hearing on Tract 4.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion
to close the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract
5: Treviño Tract- 5.00 acres, more or less, located east of Loop 20 and north
of SH 359. Petitioner: Mr. Humberto Treviño, Jr.
Motion to open the public hearing on Tract 5.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion
to close the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 6: Zachary Tract
- 256.67 acres, more or less, located east of Ejido Avenue and
south of Eistetter
Road. Petitioner: H.B. Zachary Company.
Motion to open the public hearing on Tract 6.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion
to close the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Unilateral
Annexations:
Tract 7: IH 35 Tract -
607.02 acres, more or less, located along IH 35 from Uniroyal
Drive to approximately
1/4 mile south of the IH 35/US 83 intersection. Petitioner: City
of Laredo.
Motion to open the
public hearing on Tract 7.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 7 and 8, Block 99, Western
Division, located at 603 Farragut St., from B-1 (Limited Commercial District)
to B-3 (Community Business 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. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Dr. Julio Gomez-Rejon, property owner, requested approval of the
zone change to allow him to rent out the property.
Ron Whitehawk, representing the property owner, spoke in favor of
the zone change in view of the increased activity of this type of vehicle
nationalization business.
Julie Ann Gonzalez, resident of 614 Hidalgo, spoke against the
zone change request due to the danger it poses to children’s safety.
Motion to close the
public hearing and deny the zone change request.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm.
E. Valdez, Jr.
3. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning all of Block 719, Western Division,
located at the 3300 Block of Anna Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District)
to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District); providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning
Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change and approval of a
Conditional Use Permit.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Pastor
Hector Patiño, Christian Family Center, spoke in favor of the zone change
request to place a radio antenna for the church.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a conditional
use permit, leave tower at 185 feet in height, and have the applicant abide by
conditions 2 through 7 for a period of two years.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Ramirez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
4. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 3.1570 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit "A," located north of Shiloh
Drive and west of McPherson Road, 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. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Belmares
5. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance accepting a direct aid grant from the Loan
Star Libraries Program of the Texas State Library in the amount of
$22,323.00 to purchase new computer hardware and amending the City of Laredo
fiscal year 2002-2003 annual budget by decreasing the reserved appropriation
amount by $2,667.00.
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
public 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 FY 2002-2003 Fire Prevention
and Arson Fund Budget by accepting a donation of $400.00 from
Sam's Club Foundation and appropriating said funds to purchase fire safety
educational promotional materials for the Fire Department Prevention Division.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
7. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend
Ordinance #2002-O-224 to accept a supplemental grant in the amount
of $29,200.00 from the Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority and to amend
the City of Laredo's FY 2002-2003 annual budget in the amount of $29,200.00. This supplemental grant of $29,200.00 is
100% funded at no cost to the City. The Texas Automobile Theft Prevention
Authority will now be designating $428,492.00, the City of Laredo will be
designating $78,858.00, and Webb County will be designating $31,464.00 in
matching funds for a total grant amount of $538,814.00. The funding period for
this grant is from September 1, 2002 through August 31, 2003.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against:
0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
8. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to implement a
$5.00 monthly fee to charge per participant for aerobic classes
provided by the City of Laredo Health Department Buena Vida Program at the
City's Parks And Recreation Centers and other community sites, and to
appropriate revenues to the Health Department/Health Education Division expense
account.
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
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
9. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend the
City of Laredo's Full-Time Equivalent Positions by reclassifying
the position of Health Educator (1.0 FTE) to three (3) part-time (1.51 FTE)
Community Service Aides positions at 30 hours each per week for 35 weeks; and,
deleting a 1 Program Promotion Specialist and 1 Health Educator Assistant under
the Laredo Obesity Program Prevention and Control Project (LOPAC) funded by the
Texas Department of Health. This amendment will have no financial impact on the
budget.
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
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
10. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending Section 1 of Ordinance No. 93-O-
128, modifying the sliding fee scale and implementing a co-pay for
clinic health services provided at the Maternal and Child Health (M&CH)
Program of the City of Laredo Health Department; and, exempting persons that
are indigent; and, appropriating revenues to the M&CH Program as per Texas
Department of Health's program income guidelines. Federal and State regulations remain unchanged for services
provided by this program.
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
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
11. Public hearing
allowing interested persons to comment on the proposed amendment to
the 2002 Consolidated Plan to allow for the reprogramming of 24th,
25th, and 26th Action Year (AY) Community Development Block Grant Fund balances
totaling $120,840.00 to be used towards the purchase of an ambulance for the
Cielito Lindo Subdivision Fire Station. CDBG funds proposed to be reprogrammed
include:
24th AY Community
Development Block Grant
Three Points Park $
20,349.00
25th AY Community
Development Block Grant
Hacienda Apartments
Improvements $
206.00
(Cancellation of
Project and reprogramming of funds)
Housing Rehab
Administration $ 440.00
26th AY Community Development Block
Grant
Code
Enforcement
$ 27,966.00
CD Administration
$ 24,520.00
Housing Rehab
Administration $
47,359.00
Total Funds
Reprogrammed $ 120,840.00
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public
input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
12. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance accepting a grant awarded by the South
Texas Development Council for the amount of $18,000.00 and
amending the City of Laredo's FY 2002-2003 Annual Budget for the NPDES Fund by
appropriating the said grant revenue to the appropriate expenditure
accounts. The grant monies will be used
for the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program.
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 public hearing and
introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
13. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending, adding, and repealing certain
subsections, paragraphs, sections of Chapter 2, Article II,
Division 5, sections 2-87.1 (Definitions), 2-87.2 (Appeal Procedures), 2-87.3
(Grievance Procedures), 2-87.4 (Appeals And Grievance Committee), 2-87.5
(Freedom From Reprisal) of the Code of Ordinances of The City of Laredo, except
as otherwise stated in any collective bargaining agreement and providing for an
effective date of January 1, 2003.
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 public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
VIII. STAFF REPORTS
14. Presentation by Carter
Burgess Inc., an engineering firm, on the 2002 updated Parks
and Recreation Master Plan that will serve as a standard for the
development of future park areas and the improvement of existing facilities to
provide quality recreation to all citizens of Laredo.
Brent Locke, landscape architect with Carter-Burgess, made a
presentation on this Master Plan before City Council.
Purpose of the Plan
·
Provide the
framework for orderly and consistent planning and development
·
Provide
detailed research and facts concerning the community and the roles of parks and
recreation
·
Establish
priorities and statements of direction, and a community based needs analysis
·
Provide
direction in the area of acquisition and development of park land to meet
future needs
·
Conform to
the preparation guidelines prepared by the Texas Recreation and Parks Account
local park grant program
Goals
·
To provide a
variety of recreational experiences that provide appeal to all segments of the
population of Laredo
·
To enhance
the physical attractiveness of Laredo by developing parks and open space
amenities
·
To protect
the natural resources of Laredo and Webb County by preserving those resources
·
Improve the
quality of the urban environment by providing adequate parks and open space
within the City of Laredo
·
Provide
parks and open spaces that are safe for use by persons of all ages, including
the disabled
·
Expand the
range of recreational opportunities available to all age groups
·
Increase
private sector involvement in developing and maintaining parks and open spaces
Phase I:
Standards and Guidelines
|
Type |
Size/Acres |
Service
Area |
Acres
per 1000 pop. |
|
Neighborhood park |
1-15 acres |
One
neighborhood ¼ to ½ mile radius |
1.0 ac/1,000 |
|
Community park |
16 – 99 acres |
Several
neighborhoods |
5.0 ac/1,000 |
|
Metropolitan park |
100 – 499 acres |
Several
communities under 1 hour driving |
5.0 ac/1,000 |
|
Regional park |
500 + |
Several
communities within 1 hour driving |
Variable |
|
Special Use Area |
Varies depending on desired size |
No applicable
standard |
Variable |
|
Linear Park/Linkages |
Sufficient width to protect the resource
and provide maximum usage |
No
applicable standard |
Variable |
|
|
|
TOTAL |
11 ac/1,000 population |
|
|
Existing
Acreage |
Guidelines for Existing 2000 Population
of 176,576* |
Difference
Between Guidelines and Existing Laredo Parks |
|
Suggested
Acreage |
|||
|
Neighborhood Parks |
141.91 |
176.58 (1 ac/1000 population) |
(-34.67) |
|
Community Parks |
399.30 |
882.88 (5 ac/1000 population) |
(-483.58) |
|
Metropolitan Park |
0 |
882.88 (5 ac/1000 population) |
(-882.88) |
|
Regional |
0 |
Variable |
-- |
|
Special Use Parks |
8.78 |
Variable |
+8.78 |
|
Linear Parks |
3.90 |
Variable |
+3.90 |
|
TOTALS |
553.89 |
1,942.34 |
(-1,388.45) |
|
|
|
|
|
*
Source: U. S. Census 2000.
|
Zone |
Existing
Acreage |
Guidelines for Projected 2011 Population
of 294,356 * |
Difference
Between Guidelines and Existing Laredo Parks |
|
Suggested
Acreage |
|||
|
Neighborhood Parks |
141.91 |
294.35 (1 ac/1000 population) |
(-152.44) |
|
Community Parks |
399.30 |
1,471.78 (5 ac/1000 population) |
(-1,072.48) |
|
Metropolitan Park |
0 |
1,471.78 (5 ac/1000 population) |
(-1,471.78) |
|
Regional |
0 |
Variable |
-- |
|
Special Use Parks |
8.78 |
Variable |
+8.78 |
|
Linear Parks |
3.90 |
Variable |
+3.90 |
|
TOTALS |
553.89 |
3,237.91 |
(-2,684.02) |
* Population
projections provided by City of Laredo Planning Department.
Phase I:
Needs Assessment
·
42 % of
survey participants visit parks at least once a month
·
36 % of
survey participants rate the physical condition of Laredo parks as fair
·
36 % of
survey participants have learned about Laredo parks and programs through the
newspaper
·
Most survey
participants felt that new or added park facilities should be paid for through
the general fund, user fees, or bond programs
·
53 % of
survey participants felt that allocating more dollars to new park facilities
was important
·
More than
half of survey participants would be willing to pay more than $28 per person,
per year in taxes for park system service
·
85 % of
survey participants feel Laredo needs to acquire additional park land
·
A majority
of survey participants felt it was important to preserve natural creek
corridors and open spaces in Laredo
Phase II:
Priorities/Recommendations
Land Acquisition
·
Year 2000
o
To meet the
locally adopted standard of 11.0 acres per 1,000 population, based on a current
population of 176,576, the City would need to acquire 1,388.45 acres
·
Year 2011
o
To meet the
locally adopted standard of 11.0 acres per 1,000 population for a projected
population of 294,356, the City would need to acquire 2,684.02 acres
·
Plan Update
and Refinement
o
The Master
Plan provides the guiding direction for Laredo’s park system for the next ten
years. It is a dynamic process, and
therefore, will need to be carefully monitored as Laredo continues to
grow. The plan is not static,
therefore, it must be applied to the growing needs and demands for park
facilities throughout the City. The
City staff should make annual reviews of the recommended Ten-Year Action Plan
and update current priorities, budgets, and time schedules. After five years, the overall Master Plan
should be reviewed and evaluated, especially in the area of the needs
assessment from the citizens. This will
ensure that the Master Plan truly meets the needs of those who live and raise
their families in the community. As
this happens, the City will continue to provide its citizens quality park
facilities and services for all age groups.
15. Presentation of the
2002 Employee Leadership Development Class.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director,
introduced Jerry Elizondo, who
coordinates the Leadership Development Program for the City of
Laredo.
Jerry Elizondo, Training Coordinator, stated that the goal of the
program is to identify,
educate, and motivate City employees by developing their leadership
skills. One of the
training sessions included attending the departments’ staff meeting and
attending
tonight’s City Council meeting.
He introduced the 2002 Leadership Class Members for
2002-2003:
John Porter Environmental
Services
Martin
Aleman Finance
Veronica
Hernandez Health (WIC)
Osbaldo
Guzman, Jr. Community Development
Kavita
I. Luna Administrative
Services
Roger
J. Sanchez Tax
Donna
Magnon City Secretary’s
Office
Gerardo
J. Leal Telecommunications
Blasita
J. Lopez City Manager’s
Office
San
Juana I. Rangel Police
Sandra
De Los Santos Building
Robert
A. Arredondo Airport
Luis
E. Garcia Utilities
Ivan
Santoyo Environmental
Services
Carlos
E. Calderon Health
16. Staff report regarding
Union dues of the United Steel Workers of America/Laredo
Association of City
employees, with discussion and possible action.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director,
reported that his department received a
letter from the United Steelworkers of America written on October
14, 2002, requesting payroll deduction of association dues in November. Based on the last report, from the United
Steelworkers they indicated that there are 400+ employees who have completed
membership cards and authorized dues deductions. He added that on December 24, 1996, the City Council made a
motion to allow local associations to come up with 150 paying members within
six months or nobody gets deductions.
At that time, the 150 employees represented approximately 25% of non-civil
service and non-management employees.
He stated that there would be an administrative burden to implement the
payroll deductions and provide payment to the local and out of state
associations. In regards to the cost
burden, he indicated that there is a setup cost and a fixed cost that the City
would have to incur on a special project basis for a group this size.
Motion to authorize dues deductions contingent on the employees
meeting the 25% threshold necessary for the deduction to occur.
Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. J. Ramirez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0
17. Update report by Rick
Johnson, Director of Operations for United Water.
Rick Johnson, reported that the United Water
chlorine testing by-products have not
exceeded acceptable levels in the water supply. He stated that these samples of
by-products (THM) are taken by the state on a quarterly basis and the
results from the
October testing are good. He explained that one difficulty that they
encountered during
October was sludge disposal. The
City landfill would not allow them to deliver sludge
if the conditions are wet or if they do not have enough trash to mix
with the sludge. He
said that they are working on solutions and will present some of them
within the next
two or three months. He added
that in regards to Customer Service personnel, they
have assigned radios to the field personnel in order to provide a
quicker response time
and make for a more efficient operation. He stated that they have continued to work
hard on improving operation information available to both the water
operators and
plant operators. They are also
providing training to the employees to help them
digest this information and maintain the equipment.
Heberto Ramirez, Utilities Director, reported
that as far as the compliance division is
concerned, they are investigating this particular incident and will be
submitting a report
to City Council upon its conclusion.
IX. 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.
Motion to postpone Items 18 through 21.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Request for Executive
Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in
regards to deliberating the purchase of approximately 25 acres of
land in the vicinity of the City of Laredo Airport area, because deliberation
in an open meeting would have detrimental effect on the position of the
governmental body in negotiations with a third person; and return to Open
Session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section 551.072 in regards to deliberating the purchase of approximately
25 acres of land in the vicinity of the City of Laredo Airport area, because
deliberation in an open meeting would have detrimental effect on the position
of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person; and return to
Open Session for possible action.
19. Request for Executive
Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in
regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of
real property approximately 22 miles east of Laredo, because deliberation in an
open meeting would have detrimental effect on the position of the governmental
body in negotiations with a third person; and return to Open Session for
possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section 551.072 in regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease,
or value of real property approximately 22 miles east of Laredo, because
deliberation in an open meeting would have detrimental effect on the position
of the governmental body in negotiations with a third person; and return to
Open Session for possible action.
20. Request for Executive
Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in
regards to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of
real property in the North Laredo area, because deliberation in an open meeting
would have a detrimental effect on the position of the governmental body in
negotiations with a third person; and return to Open Session for possible
action.
Motion to go into
Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section
551.072 in regards
to deliberating the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real
property in the
North Laredo area, because deliberation in an open meeting would have
a detrimental effect
on the position of the governmental body in negotiations with a
third person; and
return to Open Session for possible action.
21. Request for Executive
Session pursuant to Section 551.071 (1) (a) of the Texas
Government Code to consult with the City Attorney regarding the
pending case of Martin Villarreal et al., v. City of Laredo, Et Al., Cause No.
2002-CVQ-001299D3 in the 341st District Court pertaining to the Los Obispos Affordable
Housing Project.
Motion to go into
Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071 (1) (a) of the Texas
Government Code to consult with the City Attorney regarding the
pending case of Martin Villarreal et al., v. City of Laredo, Et Al., Cause No.
2002-CVQ-001299D3 in the 341st District Court pertaining to the Los Obispos
Affordable Housing Project.
X. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS
22.
A. Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore
Alfredo Agredano
1. Status report regarding the Veteran's
Monument.
Horacio
De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the monument project is
moving forward on schedule. The artist
has formally met with the Veterans Coalition members and discussed the
different designs that have been developed between Mr. Hinojosa and the
coalition. The Veterans Coalition is
planning to present the final version of the monument to City Council on
December, 2002. As of today, the
monument is scheduled for completion in June, 2003.
B. Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia
1.
Status report on Eastwoods Park.
Horacio
De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the project is 45%
complete; the excavation and grading portion has been done; all piping and
irrigation is in place as well as the topsoil for the softball and soccer
fields. He stated that he will be
meeting with the contractor in the near future. He added that they are still pending installation of a water
meter which Parks and Recreation is working on and the connection of
electricity.
C. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1.
Discussion with possible action regarding the pilot parking permit
program.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, stated that the department is planning to start with
the parking project on the north side of United High School. They will begin with the streets immediately
in front of the school. He mentioned
that they will be replacing the existing “no parking” signs with the proposed
residential parking permit signs. He
added that they plan to have a meeting with the residents in early December to
explain the pilot program to them.
Cm. Belmares mentioned that he would like
to see this program go forward. What he
would like to see done is to place those signs on the south side of Shiloh to
prevent them from parking on Shiloh. He
stated that Fox Street also has this same problem with parking. He would like to see installation of these
signs by the time the students resume classes in January.
D. Request by Council
Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion with
possible action for Community Development staff to conduct a
survey of the Dellwood Subdivision to determine whether the area
meets the HUD guidelines for funding from the Community Development Block Grant
Program.
Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, reported that
they can survey the subdivision. He can
assign staff to work on the survey of the area but he mentioned that the census
data available does not qualify the subdivision for HUD funding. The new HUD maps will not be available until
next year, so they would need to do a physical count of the area. He mentioned that they need to determine
that 51 % of the population is considered low to moderate income.
2. Discussion with
possible action for the installation of two (2) wireless video
cameras at the railroad crossing on Sta. Maria & Mines Road to
assist the Fire & Police Departments' emergency personnel to determine
whether the intersection is clear of a train blockage.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that they have
provided cost estimates regarding this proposal which entails installing two
radios at said intersection. He stated
that they will be installing a radio and antenna at the site by the railroad
tracks and then sending the signal over to the fire station and will have
another radio there to serve as a receiver.
He stated that the cameras they currently have are accessible through
the City’s I-Net. He added that the cost
estimate for the cameras is $9,000.00 and the radio and beacon will cost
approximately $3,500.00 but he still needs to secure funding for these items.
3. Discussion with
possible action for staff to initiate an amendment to reallocate
the $400,000.00 identified in the Community Development Block
Grant Program 28th Action Year - West Laredo Park and to utilize these same
funds for the construction of two (2) zero depth water spray playground areas
to include amenities such as walking trails, benches and shaded areas. One playground area is proposed to be
located behind the Farias Recreation Center and other playground area is
proposed along the Lafayette Street Overpass bordered by Main and Santa
Cleotilde Streets, with possible action.
Motion to re-allocate the $400,000.00 identified in the Community
Development Block Grant Program 28th Action Year West Laredo Park to
the two other areas: one playground
area behind the Farias Recreation Center and the other one along the Lafayette
Street Overpass.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
Second: Cm. Belmares
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
E. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with
possible action on installing a traffic light at the intersection of
Clark and Monterrey
Streets.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that he had provided information regarding
his concern over placing a traffic light at that location. He mentioned that for traffic traveling west
on Clark, the visibility is reduced due to the hill at that location. He stated that placing any type of traffic
device at that particular location would pose a danger to motorists because it
requires at least 400 feet for a motorist to be able to react and stop the
vehicle.
Cm.
Ramirez inquired whether it would be possible to install some flashing lights
higher up on the hill.
Roberto
Murillo stated that it has been his experience that pedestrians will continue
to cross through the middle of the street rather than crossing at a
crosswalk. He suggested installing
pedestrian signs and a flasher light rather than designating a crosswalk.
2. Discussion with
possible action regarding the status of the parking lot at Davis
and Santa Maria.
Roberto
Murillo, Traffic Director, reported that the fence is already in place and they
are finalizing a design for the striping together with the park stops for the
heavy trucks. He mentioned that they
are trying to fit 60 to 80 parking spaces mainly for tractor trailer use and
will try to have it ready in the next two weeks.
3.
Discussion with possible regarding bird droppings at Jarvis Plaza.
Horacio
De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the crews do maintain the
plaza on a weekly basis by power washing the plaza sidewalks and walkways. They also trim the trees to try to avoid
more areas for roosting. He added that
they are looking at some innovative methods such as purchasing a net to place
on the trees in order to avoid the birds from roosting.
4. Discussion with
possible action regarding psychological testing for Police
Officers after they
are hired by the City.
Jaime
Flores, City Attorney, stated that this section is specifically covered by
statute under the Local Government Code, Chapter 143. There is a specific section within Chapter 143 entitled
“Determination of Physical and Mental Fitness”. Very specifically within that chapter is the process that is
required for police chief, police officers, fire chief, and firefighters to
follow through when and if the question ever arises of the mental or physical
fitness of such an employee. There are
several steps required to be followed, the first one being that the police or
fire chief presents the information found to the Civil Service Commission. The Commission then follows certain steps to
request that an officer or firefighter obtain a personal physician or
psychiatrist to submit information responding to the perceived behavioral
problem. Following that, the Commission
orders its own medical expert to then conduct an evaluation to see whether the results are indeed comparable to those of the
Commission. Then, when there is
agreement, there are other procedures where there might be a problem
identified. If there is no agreement,
then further procedures require that both the Commission’s report and the
employee’s personal physician’s report be submitted to an independent board.
This independent three-member board then examines that employee and the board’s
findings as to the person’s fitness are then submitted to the chief for him to
determine the duty of that particular employee.
Police
Chief Agustin Dovalina stated that whenever one of his police officers is involved in a traumatic event, such as a
shooting, they do provide psychological help for them. They offer these services just as they are
offered for all city employees. He
added that all these evaluations are governed under statute as legal counsel
had mentioned.
XI. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
23. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute an amendment to the lease agreement
between the City of Laredo (Airport), as Lessor, and Dairy
Process, Inc., as Lessee, as approved by Ordinance No. 2002-O-141 dated July 1,
2002, specifically amending Section 1.09 titled "Use and Use
Conflict" in order to add medical clinic and/or medical related uses are
allowable uses for the leased premises.
All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in effect; providing
for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
24. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a lease agreement between the City of
Laredo, as Lessor, and Clemente M. Bedia, as Lessee for
approximately 624.77 sq. ft. of building and space to be used as a Woman,
Infant and Children (WIC) Food Store at the area commonly known as 2300 Saltillo,
part of the South Laredo Pool Park site, for a term of one year at a monthly
rental rate of $300.00 per month.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
25. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute a lease agreement to the lease agreement
between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and Webb County, as Lessee,
authorized by Ordinance No. 2001-O-176 dated August 20, 2001 in order to delete
Building No. 1229 effective August 1, 2002.
Said amendment will amend, specifically, Section 1.01 titled "Lease
Area" deleting Building No. 1229, therefore decreasing the square footage
form 4,378 to 2,378. Amend Section 1.04
titled "Rent Obligation" decreasing the monthly rent from $1,825.73
to $1,100.00. All other terms and
conditions remain unchanged and in effect; providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council except Cm. Amaya.
26. Closing as public
easements those sections of:
* Maryland Avenue between Market and South
right-of-way line of Guatemozin
Street, including its intersections with Cortez and Guatemozin
Streets;
* Cortez between Springfield and Lexington
Avenues; and
* Guatemozin Street between Springfield and
Lexington Avenues;
all situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb,
Texas and providing for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
27. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute the necessary document to grant an easement
and right of way of 0.124 of an acre (7,032 sq. ft.) tract of land,
more or less, to AEP Central Power and Light Company, for the installation of
certain electrical service facilities to serve the Jefferson Street Water Plant
in Laredo, Texas. Said easement 0.124
of an acre tract of land being situated within the City of Laredo's
"Jefferson Street" Water Treatment Plant in 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.
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
XII. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the final readings of Ordinance # 2002-O-288; #
2002-O-289; # 2002-O-290; # 2002-O-291; # 2002-O-292; # 2002-O-293; #
2002-O-294; # 2002-O-295; and #
2002-O-296.
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-288 Amending the
City of Laredo 2002-2003 budget by increasing Texas
Department of Health's share of program income and expenditures
for the Tuberculosis Elimination Program of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning September 1, 2002, through August 31, 2003.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-288.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-289 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003
annual budget in the amount of
$82,773.00 in
additional funds from the Texas Department of Health for the
Office of Public
Health Practice Program of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the
period beginning September 1, 2002 through August 31,
2003; and
authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's full-
time equivalent
positions by creating three Community Service Aide positions.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-289.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-290 Authorizing the City Manager to amend the
City of Laredo's full-time
equivalent
positions by creating one Micro-Computer Specialist. A transfer of
funds will be
initiated from the Bio-Terrorism Grant (226-6068) contractual
services line item
to the personnel line item to cover these expenses. In
addition, a
transfer of funds will also occur from the Office of Public Health
Practice Program
(OPHP) (226-6088) and Immunization Action Plan (226-
6086) program
income (Texas Department of Health's share) into the
personnel line
item. The net budgetary impact is zero
after line item transfers.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-290.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-291 Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo's FY
2002-2003
full-time
equivalent positions by creating 13 part-time Community Service
Aides (1.28
Full-Time Equivalent Positions - for a total of 2,664 hours) to
conduct community
health education and aerobic instruction at the City's Parks
and Recreation
Centers. These positions are currently
paid as contractual, staff
and to align with
city operations, they are now being converted to full-time
equivalent
positions, and hence, this action does not impact the current budget.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-291.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-292 Accepting a
grant awarded by the Criminal Justice Division, Office of the
Governor in the amount of $99,862.00 and amending the City of
Laredo's FY 2002-2003 annual budget in the amount of $20,000.00 for the
Criminal Justice Division Grant from the Office of the Governor. The Office of the Governor is
contributing $60,000.00 with the City
designating $39,862.00 in matching funds.
This funding will be used for the Domestic Awareness Response Team
Program under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for the period of December
01, 2002 through August 31, 2003.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-292.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-293 Closing of public easements those sections
of:
A.
Milmo Avenue between Elm and Montgomery Streets, including the
intersection;
B. Ash Street between
Martin and Texas Avenues; situated in the Eastern
Division, City of
Laredo, County of Webb, Texas and providing for an
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-293.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-294 Closing of public easements those sections
of:
A. Texas Avenue between
Mier and Lane Streets, including the
intersections;
B. Louisiana Avenue
between Mier and Lane Streets, including the
intersections;
C.
Galveston Street between Milmo and Arkansas Avenues;
D. Guerrero Street between
Milmo and Arkansas Avenues; situated in the
Eastern Division, City
of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas, and providing
for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-294.
Moved: Cm.. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-295 Closing as public easements those sections
of:
A.
Gustavus Street between Martin and Texas Avenues;
B. Milmo Avenue between
Clark and Musser Streets, including the
intersection; situated in the Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas and providing for an effective
date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance
#2002-O-295.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2002-O-296 Approving the donation of an approximate 3.03 acre tract
(surface only)
of non-aeronautical use
of land located at the Laredo International Airport to
the Board of Regents of
the University of Texas for the public purpose of
establishing and operating
an extension campus of the University of Texas
Health Science Center at
San Antonio in accordance with section 272.001 (j)
of the Local Government
Code and authorizing the City Manager to execute
all necessary
documents. This conveyance completes a
donation of
approximately 12.003
acres with a fair market value of $2,617,000.00.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2002-O-296.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. RESOLUTIONS
29. 2002-R-097 Consideration to authorize the City Manager
to accept the donation of
a RCA 20 inch flat TV/VCR combination from Wal-Mart with a value
of $294.00. This equipment will be used
as a training tool in the Fire Department Prevention Division's Fire Safety
House.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-097.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. 2002-R-098 Authorizing the City Manager to submit to
the United States Foreign
Trade Zones Board an application for a temporary boundary
modification on behalf of Valls Holdings, Ltd. requesting a transfer of Foreign
Trade Zone designation status from the Laredo International Airport known as
Site No. 1 to the Valls International, Inc., facility to be designated as Site
No. 8. The temporary boundary
modification, if approved by the Foreign Trade Zones Board, will transfer
Foreign Trade Zones status (designation only) of one (1) acre from the Laredo
International Airport, Site No. 1 to the Valls International, Inc., facility
located at the Milo Distribution Center.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-098.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. 2002-R-100 Supporting and adopting the updated 2002
City of Laredo Parks and
Recreation Master Plan to serve as a standard for the development
of future park areas and the improvements of existing facilities to provide
quality recreation to all citizens of Laredo.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-100.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. 2002-R-101 Expressing support for proposals submitted
by the City of Laredo on
behalf of the United Independent School District for Safe Routes
To Schools (SRS) Program funding, with match contribution to be provided by the
school district, for the installation of traffic calming devices on streets
leading to Prada & Arndt Elementary Schools, the construction of sidewalks
from Alexander High School to existing subdivisions, the installation of a
bridge over US 59 to access Cuellar Elementary School, and the replacement of
school zone signs throughout the school district.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-101.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm.
Garcia
33. 2002-R-102 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a
grant in the amount of
$1,250,000.00 for the COPS in Schools Program. The U. S. Department of Justice, Office of
Community Oriented Policing Service (COPS) Program awarded funding to the City
of Laredo for the purpose of hiring 10 new School Resource Officers (SRO) for a
period of three years beginning September 1, 2002 through August 31, 2005.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-102.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. 2002-R-103 Accepting a grant awarded from the United
States Department of Justice,
Community Oriented Policing Services in the amount of
$1,125,000.00. Funding will be used to
hire 15 Patrol Officer Cadets for a three-year funding period of the
"Universal Hiring" program beginning August 1, 2002 through July 31,
2005.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-103.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. 2002-R-104 Amending Resolution 2000-R-157 for the grant
agreement between the
City of Laredo and the Texas Water Development Board - Contract
No. G13500/13600/1546/1547 - Amendment No. 1 for the City of Laredo, Mines
Road/State Highway 359 Project No. 10045. This amendment reflects the recent
Texas Water Development Board action that changes the source of funds from the
Economically Distressed Areas Program to the Colonias Wastewater Treatment
Assistance Program.
Keith Kendall, Project Manager, stated that this agenda item did
not have any impact on the amount of grant funds allocated only on the source
of funds. It will have federal
requirements associated with water grant funds.
Motion to approve Resolution #2002-R-104.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. MOTIONS
36. Consideration to award
contract number FY03-003 to the low bidder, Southern
Sanitation, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $40,092.00
for providing trash collection services for large volume containers. These services will be required for various
city operations such as the Airport, Bridge, Civic Center, Parks and
Recreation, Public Access, and Solid Waste.
The contract vendor is also required to provide these containers for
special events such as the household collection event. Funding is available in the respective
departmental budgets.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Ramirez
37. Consideration for
approval of final change order no. 1 a decrease of $22,098.00 for the
balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of
the CDBG Sidewalks City-Wide Project No. 19A and approval of final payment in
the amount of $66,410.10 to Triple A Concrete, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final contract amount is $131,314.50. Funding is available in the Community
Development Budget 26th Action Year Sidewalks.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Approving monthly
adjustments to the tax roll. The amount
to be adjusted for the
month of October 2002 represents an increase of $24,146.08. These adjustments are determined by the Webb
County Appraisal District.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Refund of property tax
to the following taxpayers and companies:
a. A refund in the amount
of $861.60 payable to Edward L. and Erika B. Sepulveda
due to a double over payment. Both the mortgage and the title
company paid the 2001 tax. Account #991-00006-030.
b. A refund in the amount
of $741.43 payable to Maria de la Luz Villarreal due to
an over payment. Both the homeowner and the mortgage bank paid the
taxes from 1997 to 2000. Account #905-00056-220.
c. A refund in the amount
of $870.13 payable to Esmeralda C. and Gerardo
Rodriguez due to a double over payment. Both the homeowner and the mortgage company paid for the 2002 tax
year. Account #948-00103-500.
d. A refund in the amount
of $638.26 payable to Wells Fargo Real Estate Tax
Service due to a double over payment. Both the bank and the
mortgage company paid the 2000 tax.
Account #985-60006-440.
e. A refund in the amount
of $1,160.90 payable to Sonya L. Marquez due to a
double over payment by the owner and the mortgage company for the
tax years 2000 and 2001. Account
#946-50002-270.
f. A refund in the amount
of $647.88 payable to Wells Fargo Real Estate Tax
Service due to a
double over payment. Both the title
company and the mortgage
company paid the tax
for 2001. Account #439-00760-030.
g. A refund in the amount
of $806.79 payable to Ophelia Q. Castillo due to a double
over payment. Both the mortgage company and the title company paid
the tax years 2000 and 2001. Account
#990-10001-040.
h. A refund in the amount
of $592.95 payable to Countrywide Tax Service due to a
double over payment. Both the title company and the mortgage
company paid the tax year 1998. Account
#969-40005-021.
i. A refund in the amount
of $1,423.57 payable to the Laredo Millennium
Properties, Ltd., due to double payment. Both the title company
and the previous owner paid the 2001 tax.
Account #979-20004-060.
j. A refund in the amount
of $775.61 payable to the Laredo Millennium Properties,
Ltd., due to a double payment.
Both the title company and the previous owner paid the 2001 tax. Account #979-20004-050.
k. A refund in the amount
of $799.81 payable to Juan Miguel Lerma due to a
double payment. Both the mortgage company and the title company
paid the 2000 tax. Account
#923-00026-507.
l. A refund in the amount
of $814.46 payable to Armandina Q. Cruz due to a double
payment. The taxpayer
paid the 2002 tax year twice. Account
#105-00247-070.
m. A refund in the amount
of $1,931.15 payable to Esteban Alejo due to a Webb
County Appraisal change of value certified by the Appraisal Review
Board. Personal Property did not exist
on the 1st of the year. Supp 2, Cause #2002-449,450,451. Account
#800-01000-240.
n. A refund in the amount
of $831.37 payable to Jose Garcia Davalos, MD due to a
Webb County Appraisal change of value certified by the Appraisal
Review Board. Personal Property did not exist on the 1st of Year. Supp. 2,
Cause #2002-463,464,465. Account #800-07000-151.
o. A refund in the amount
of $881.14 payable to Mike Link. Mr. Link paid the taxes
in error. He sold the
property. Account #900-90381-005.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV.
RECESS
AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING
CORPORATION
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the
Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Consideration to award
contract number FY03-009, to the low bidder, Human
Resources, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of
$25,000.00 for providing temporary personnel services for the Noise Abatement
Program. Contract personnel will be
secured on as needed basis during the fiscal year. Funding is available in the Municipal Housing Corporation budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI.
RECESS
AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY
COUNCIL
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation and reconvene
as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVII. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE
AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the
Laredo Mass Transit Board.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0
Abstain: 0
41. Authorizing the City
Manager to award contract for dispatch and scheduling software
to Trapeze Software Group for $76,600.00. This software will provide the City Of
Laredo with the premier demand response scheduling system for the Laredo Metro,
Inc. - El Lift operations.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against:
0 Abstain:
0
42.
Presentation
and recommendation for the selection of a management company for El
Metro Transit
System, with possible action.
Motion to approve the selection of First
Transit.
Moved:
Cm. Belmares
Second:
Cm. Galo
For:
5 Against:
0 Abstain:
3
Cm. Agredano
Cm. Amaya
Cm. Ramirez
XVIII. RECESS AS THE
LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS
THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the
Laredo
City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against:
0 Abstain:
0
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
City of Laredo
City Council Meeting
1110 Houston
November 18, 2002
Supplemental Agenda
I. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
a.
Recognition of Irene Moreno
Ovalle, Volleyball Coach of Alexander High School on her accomplishments in
winning 5 District Championships.
(Co-sponsored by Council Member Hector Garcia, Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr., and Council Member Gene Belmares.)
Mayor
Flores presented a Seven Flags Certificate of Appreciation to Coach Ovalle for
her outstanding coaching skills that enabled her team to win five district
championships.
II. Introductory Ordinance
1. Authorizing the City
Manager to execute the necessary document to grant an easement
and right-of-way of a parcel of land containing 910 square feet
and another parcel of land containing 1,268 square feet, more or less, to AEP
Central Power and Light Company, for the installation of certain electrical
Said easement 910 sq. ft. and 1,268 sq. ft. tract of land being situated within
the City of Laredo’s “Jefferson Street” Water Treatment Plant in Webb County
Texas; being generally described below, and more particularly described by
metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, and providing for an effective date.
(This item replaces item # 27 on regular City Council Agenda.)
Ordinance Introduction:
City Council
III. Adjournment
Motion to adjourn. Time:
9:30 p.m.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I,
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify that the above
minutes
contained in pages 01 to 29 are true, complete and correct proceedings
of the City
Council
meeting held on November 18, 2002.
____________________________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary