CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2003-R-01
CITY
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS 78040
JANUARY 13, 2003
5:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor
Elizabeth G. Flores called the meeting
to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Elizabeth Flores led in the
Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In attendance:
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo Agredano, 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
Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District VII
Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary
Larry Dovalina, City
Manager
Cynthia Collazo, Assistant
City Manager
Jaime Flores, City
Attorney
Motion to excuse Cm. Belmares.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second: Cm. E. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes for November
13, 2002, November 18, 2002 and December 9, 2002.
Motion to approve the minutes.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second: Cm. Ramirez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm.
Ramirez was excused from the meeting at 6:15 p.m. with a motion made by
Cm. J.
Valdez and seconded by Cm. Galo.
All were in favor.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
Invitations
Recognitions
a.
Recognition of the J.W. Nixon Football Team for their football
accomplishments in
2002.
Mayor Flores and City Council recognized the
following football team players and coaches:
Guillermo Rodriguez Jose
Sanchez
Enrique Sanchez Charlie
Rendon
Phillip Garcia Zane
Jerry
Jaime Martinez Joseph
Martinez
Gino Ferrezano Lionel
Palafox
Eddie Garcia Wesley
Rollins
Frank Hernandez Ricky
Sanchez
Robert RFlores Oscar
Moreno
Joel Lugo Juan Hernandez
Robert Mata Jesse
Chandarila
David Zapieo Pedro
Gutierrez
Rene Flores Sammy Rubio
Jesse Santos Diego
Madrigal
Rene Magana Arturo
Mendoza
Agustin Fuantes Efrain
Lopez
Jason Villarreal Jerry
Soto
Joey Rodriguez Jose
Luis Osoria
Joey Martinez Guillermo
De Santos
Issac Garcia Hector
Tijerina
Eric Guzman Ricky
Gonzalez
Hector Casarez Christian
Rosales
Jorge Perez Alfonso
Castillo
Mike Pena Frank
Moncada
Edgar Sepulveda Joaquin
Ramirez
Jorge Munoz Fernando
Cruz
Superintendent:
Interim Superintendent Jerry Barber
Principal:
Sylvia Rios
Athletic Director: Nick Villarreal
Assistant Athletic Director: Butch Flores
Athletic Coordinator/Head Coach: Joel Lopez
J. W.
Nixon Football: Brad Hopkins,
Gilbert Gomez, Tommy Ramirez, Jorge Vasquez, Alex Colin, Jesus Sandoval, Beto
Munoz, Henry Yzaguirre, Jaime Gonzalez, Carmelo Gonzalez, Hugo Garcia, Isidro
Garcia, Edi Flores, Mario Saldivar and Martin Sanchez.
b.
Recognition of Amelia "Amy" Martinez of the Community
Development Department for her selection as 2002 City of Laredo
Employee of the Year.
Amelia “Amy” Martinez was public recognized by
the Mayor and City Council and was presented with a Severn Flags Certificate.
c.
Recognition of employees who assisted in the special project to complete
improvements at Bridge I to alleviate congestion of
pedestrians crossing into Laredo.
Mayor Flores and City Council recognized
the following City employees:
Adan Cedillo Jaime
Cantu
Jorge Ramon Gabriel
Eligio
Adrian Cedillo Juan
Jose Medina
David Moreno Gorge Olmos
Regino Rodriguez Verancio
Mota
Ramon Vasquez Efrain
Mendiola
Jose A. Alfaro Fernando
Liendo
Noe Camacho Sergio
Chavez
d.
Cm. Ramirez recognized Poncho
Sanchez, recipient of the 2002 Latin/Jazz
Grammy Awards.
He noted that Mr. Sanchez is an
outstanding musician that performs around the world.
Communiqués
Cm.
Agredano thanked Code Enforcement, especially Roy Garcia, for cleaning
up the debris of a home that burned several months ago. He also wished his wife a happy birthday.
Cm.
Garcia welcomed everyone and noted his enthusiasm for working with the
unified Council and City staff for the year, 2003. He praised the Police and Fire Departments for their hard work
during the holiday season.
Cm. Galo
also welcomed everyone. He thanked God
for the safe holidays. He also thanked
the Police and Fire Departments for their hard work during the holiday
season.
Cm.
Amaya reiterated what Cm. Garcia
said about the unity of the Council. He
expressed his desire to work hard for constituents in his district and throughout
the City of Laredo.
Cm.
E. Valdez thanked the Mayor,
Council Members, staff, and his constituents for working together as a team to
complete projects in his district and throughout the City of Laredo. He also wished his sister a happy birthday.
Cm.
J. Valdez welcomed everyone to
the New Year. He noted his desire to
get back to work with City staff. He
applauded the work they have done in his district and in the City. He also thanked his colleagues for their
cooperation and hard work.
Cm.
Ramirez thanked staff for their hard work. He thanked the Police and Fire Department for their work efforts
in extinguishing a warehouse fire in his district.
Mayor Flores thanked the council for their
positive comments. She read the following
information:
The year is 1903…one hundred years ago…what a
difference a century makes.
The average life expectancy in the United States
was 47 years.
Only 14% of the homes had a bath tub.
Only 8% had a telephone.
A three minute call from Denver to New York cost
$11.00
There were only 8,000 cars in the United States
and144 miles of paved roads.
The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10
miles per hour.
Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Iowa were
more heavily populated than California with a mere 1.4 million residents.
The tallest structure in the world was the
Eiffel Tower.
The average wage was .22 cents an hour.
The average U. S. worker made between $200 and
$400 per year.
A competent accountant could earn $2,000 a year,
dentist $2,500, a Veterinarian between $1500 and $4000. A mechanical engineer could earn about
$5,000 per year.
More than 95% of all births in the U. S. took
place at home.
Ninety percent of all U.S. physicians had no
college education.
Sugar cost .04 a pound. Eggs were fourteen cents a dozen. Coffee cost fifteen cents a pound.
Most women washed their hair once a month and
used borox or egg yolks for shampoo.
Canada passed a law that prohibited poor people
from entering their country for any reason
The five leading causes of death were
phenomena/influenza, tuberculosis, diarrhea, heart disease and stroke.
The American flag had 45 stars; Arizona, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Hawaii, and
Alaska hadn’t been admitted to the Union.
The population of Las Vegas Nevada was 30.
Cross word puzzles, beer and ice tea had not
been invented.
No Mother’s day and no Father’s day.
Only one 1 in 10 from the United States could
read and write.
Only 6% of all Americans had graduated high
school.
Marijuana, heroin and morphine were available in
corner drug stores.
According to one pharmacist heroin clears the
completion gives buoyancy to the mind regulates the stomach and the bowls and
is the perfect guardian of health
18% of house holds had at least one full time
servant or domestic and there were only 230 reported murders in the entire
United States.
So I ask you to think today how you think it
will be in another 100 years.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
a.
City Council confirmation of Mayor Flores’ appointments to the Electrical
Examining
Board of the following: Roberto Narvaez, Hugo Garcia, and Carl
Johnson.
Motion to approve the appointments of Roberto Narvaez, Hugo Garcia and
Carl Johnson to the Electrical Examining Board.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning all of Block 2024,
Eastern Division, located at 3200 Blaine Street, from R-2 (Multifamily
Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for
publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone
change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. E. Valdez
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Luis Sandro Guerra, representing Carancahua
Investments, spoke in favor of a zone change approval for commercial
development.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. Garcia
Second:
Cm. J. Valdez
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm.
Garcia
2.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 6.0035 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit “A”, located east of
Highway 83 and south of Sierra Vista Blvd., from AG (Agricultural 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. Galo
Second:
Cm. Garcia
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second:
Cm. Garcia
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
3.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1, Block 2,
Cuatro Vientos Norte Subdivision, Phase I, located at 3302 Cuatro Vientos
Drive, from R-1A (Single Family Residential Area District) to R-2 (Multi-Family
Residential District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City
Manager to amend the
FY 2002-2003 annual budget by appropriating
revenues and expenditures in the amount of $52,931.00 for the Medicaid
Administrative Cost (MAC) Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning October 1, 2002, through September 30, 2003. This amount includes program surplus funds
from FY 2001-2002 in the amount of $34,537.00 and funding in the amount of
$18,394.00 which was received in the current fiscal year.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the city manager
to amend the
City of Laredo’s FY 2002/2003 annual budget in
the Convention & Visitors Bureau operating fund in the amount of $42,521.00
for revenue and expenses from the management and operation of the Washington’s
Birthday Celebration Museum, and authorizing the City Manager to implement said
budget.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY
2002-2003
annual budget by appropriating revenues and
expenditures in the amount of $169,983.00 from the Texas Department of Health
for the Tuberculosis Prevention/Control Federal Project of the City of Laredo
Health Department for the period beginning January 1, 2003 through December 31,
2003.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Garcia
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
7.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo’s
Convention
and Visitors Bureau full time equivalent
positions by adding 1.5 full time clerks positions for the Washington’s
Birthday Celebration Museum and information center operation.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. J. Valdez
Second:
Cm. Galo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
8.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo
fiscal year 2003
2000A Certificate of Obligation Issue Fund
annual budget by appropriating revenues of $2,000,000.00 in the form of a
donation from Lamar Bruni Vergara Trust for $2,000,000.00 and appropriating
expenditures in the amount of $2,000,000.00 for the construction of the Inner
City Park.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Garcia
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce.
Moved:
Cm. Amaya
Second:
Cm. Galo
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
9.
A. Request by Council Member
Hector J. Garcia
1.
Discussion with possible action on placing a traffic light at the 3300
block of
Clark and 2300 block of Townsend or at the corner of Clark and Newport.
Cm.
Garcia read his discussion item as follows: “Discussion with possible action with placing a traffic light on
the corner of Clark and Townsend or the corner of Clark and Newport.”
Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director, said that
the department would proceed with the accident reports and traffic counts on
both intersections, which would take four to six weeks to complete.
2.
Discussion with possible action on opening the end of Ejido and Corpus
Christi
Streets.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, explained the
different problems of opening the end of Ejido and Corpus Christi. The main delay would be obtaining permission
from Tex-Mex because they own the right-of-way.
B. Request by Council Member John C. Galo
1. Staff
report concerning the rights of property owners whose property has been
damaged by traffic accidents, especially when the wrecked vehicle lies
across
both
City easements and private property, with possible action.
Agustin Dovalina, Police Chief, reported the
police department will enforce the violations that have been committed. If the vehicle is obstructing the public
right-of-way the vehicle will be towed.
Cm. Galo
asked if the property owner, whose property has been damaged by the traffic
accident, can keep the car until the owner of the vehicle pays for the
damages. He continued to say that the
owners of the property should be able to protect their rights as a property
owner. He suggested approaching the
legislature with a resolution to be able to assist the property owners.
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, said the property
owner may keep the vehicle in their yard until the owner of the vehicle pays
for the damages provided the police department has no interest in the
vehicle.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, said staff would
study the insurance laws because he believes there are already provisions in
the insurance laws that will assist the property owner.
2. Staff report regarding opening of Bartlett
at Market with possible action.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that as
far as the construction aspect, staff is ready to commence with the
project. Once the monies are available,
they will begin the project.
Keith Selman, City Planner, noted an street closing agreement with TxDOT
is the cause for delay. They have had
the agreement in their office since July of last year and staff needs the
document for ratification.
C. Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya
1.
Discussion with possible action
regarding updating the J.W. Nixon football team
accomplishments on the Utilities Department water towers at the corner
of
Malinche & Lyon.
Beto Ramirez, Utilities Director, noted that in
the past the City has worked with the school districts to paint the tanks and
has never absorbed the cost. He added
that he would work with Laredo Independent School District regarding updating
the J. W. Nixon football team.
Motion to direct staff to contact Laredo
Independent School District in regards to updating the water towers at the
corner of Malinche & Lyon and come back to council with
recommendations.
D. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1.
Discussion with possible action to begin a study for possible placement
of a
traffic light or stop signs at the intersection
of Springfield Avenue and Village Boulevard.
(Co-sponsored by Council Member Eliseo Valdez)
Chuck Owen, resident, spoke on the need of a
traffic light or stop signs at the intersection of Springfield and Village
Boulevard due to the increase of traffic and the need for traffic safety.
Robert Murillo, Traffic Director, noted the
intersection does merit a traffic light; however, the item is scheduled to be
funded in the 2004 Capital Improvement Plan.
Funding needs to be identified for the four way stop. A four way stop will create delays unless
other measures are taken. He
recommended removing the four way stop at Sunset.
Cm. Galo
and Cm. E. Valdez requested a list of traffic lights that are pending
funding.
Motion to move with the temporary solution by
installing a four way stop at the intersection of Springfield Avenue and
Village Boulevard and removing the three way stop at Sunset in order to avoid
traffic delays. Also, identify funding
for a light to be installed at the intersection of Springfield Avenue and
Village Boulevard.
Moved:
Cm. E. Valdez
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
E. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion with possible action regarding a
presentation by Laredo Police
Officers on the need for additional
investigators. (Co-sponsored by Council
Member Hector J. Garcia)
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, reminded council
that the presentation can end with a recommendation or an instruction for the
City Manager.
Luis Maldonado gave the following presentation:
Laredo Police Department
Promotional Study
Crime Scene Investigators/Detectives
Purpose:
This study attempts to show that there exists a real need for the
expansion of Crime Scene Investigators and detectives within the Laredo Police
Department.
Study Foreword:
Two important factors must be kept in mind: 1.) We strongly believe
that the future and safety of the citizens of this community must not be
compromised nor limited and 2.) The department will improve productivity with
the right amount of crime scene investigators and detectives, the city demands.
Justification:
I. To ensure that the Laredo Police Department
meets the demands of the community since Laredo is one of the fastest growing
cities in the United States.
II. To increase investigation productivity.
III. Cost Effectiveness
Courses of Action:
I. The approval of this proposal may be
accomplished in one of the following methods.
A. Reclassification of
positions
B. Creation of
positions
C. Reallocation of
funds from other city programs or sources
D. Salary Savings
Proposal:
I. With 20 qualified patrolman on the
promotional list, it is advisable that this opportunity be taken to provide the
best possible service to the citizens of this community.
II. The following are the job functional
descriptions of Crime Scene Investigators and Detectives taken directly from
our Policy and Operations Manual.
Detective Job Functional
Description
Works in plain clothes
and uses considerable discretion in detection of crime:
Receives orders from
superior officers and follows cases to conclusion which
normally ends in the
preparation of a case for prosecution.
Inspects crime scenes
for evidence and reconstruction of the crime;
interviews, victims,
witnesses, suspects and prisoners to collect information
about crime; and
investigates and follows up all possible clues to apprehend the
offender and prepares
and renders detail written reports of his investigation.
Recovers stolen
property.
Exercises considerable
independent judgment in specific cases, acquires working
knowledge of established
rules and procedures, keeps abreast of legal and
technical changes. Work is reviewed through performance,
accomplishments,
personal inspections and
a review of written reports covering activities.
1. The following are the Laredo Police
Department’s Criminal Investigation Division in which additional detectives are
needed:
Crimes Against Property 2
Inv. needed
Crimes Against Persons 4
Inv. needed
Family Violence/Sex
Crimes 4
Inv. needed
Juvenile Enforcement 2
Inv. needed
(This information was
obtained from the Laredo Police Department’s heads and supervisors)
2. The following is the amount of caseload per
detective in the Laredo Police
Department:
Crimes Against Persons: Each detective is getting approximately
30-35 cases per month.
Crimes Against Property: Each detective is getting 20-25 cases per
month.
Juvenile Enforcement Team: Each detective is getting between 25-40
cases
Per month.
Sex Crimes Unit: Each detective is getting approximately
25-30 cases per
month. Take into consideration
that these cases are long termed cases which
cause the rest of the other cases to get
backlogged.
Domestic Violence Unit: Each detective is getting approximately
25-30 cases
per month.
These cases get investigated on a five
day work week, and unfortunately cases
get backlogged due to the lack of
personnel.
Crime Scene Investigator Job Functional
Description:
Performs the same duties as a patrol
officer; however he may act as a field
advisor in the absence of the patrol sergeant. A Crimes Scene Investigator:
Identifies, photographs and collects
evidence of crime scenes.
Work
normally consists of routine patrol, preliminary investigation of crimes
or
incidents that may perform follow-up investigations as assigned by the
patrol supervisor.
Receives assignments and instructions from supervisor or commander and
works in conformance with all laws, criminal procedures and departmental
policies, goals and rules.
Conducts routine patrol in an assigned area to
deter or detect violations of law and
takes appropriate actions when violations occur.
Makes arrest, issues citations, obtains
evidence, protests crimes scenes, and testifies in court; locates missing
person, lost or stolen property, and advices citizens on crime prevention.
Drives vehicle, motorcycle, or works on foot or
other conveyance as assigned; and may receive another assignment to work in
another capacity.
Reports criminal information activity to other
commands or sections as applicable.
Documents and completes reports of crimes
committed and traffic accidents; and repots other incidents as needed.
3. Crime
Scene Investigation:
Crime scene investigation is a very crucial part
of any criminal investigation.
Regardless of the crime, the crime scene must be treated with utmost
importance. Crime scenes are managed
“to aid the injured, apprehend suspects, identify witnesses, protect and
preserve physical evidence and thoroughly and accurately document the
investigation” “LPD Operations Manual.
4.
History:
As recent as the late 1980’s and
early 90’s there were very few Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) positions in
Laredo Police Department. It was not
uncommon to only have one crime scene
investigator for the entire city. If
two were available one would take care of the West and the other would take
care of the east.
Prior to the commitment to Community Oriented
Policing philosophy, the patrol division was divided into squads. These were composed of six to twn patrol
officers. Usually a CSI was assigned to
one of the two or the three squads working a particular shift. If a Csi was absent there was no replacement
for that shift. The shifts were and
still are, broken down to morning (7-3 am), afternoon (3-11 p.m.), and night
shift (11-7 ) a.m. The city was divided
into district with one patrol officer assigned to each.
5.
Present state:
Since then, the city has grown
tremendously. As a matter of fact,
Laredo is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. At the present time, the city of Laredo
divided in to four Sectors and 15 precincts.
Even though there have been major positive improvement for the patrol
division, within these last few years, we still lack Crime Scene Investigators.
Currently, we have only 10 Crime Scene Investigators for the whole city. We have 6 out of the 15 districts without a
CSI. Upon checking with our Laredo
Police Department Communications Manager, within last quarter, we’ve had an
average of one CSI per shift working for the whole city, and sometimes the city
is left without a CSI. This means that
a Crime Scene Investigator has to be called on overtime which obviously the
city pays for.
In addition, the Crime Scene Investigators we
have are not always available. For
Instance, CSIs have the meet T.C.L.E.O.S.E. (Commission of Law Enforcement
Officer Standards and Education) requirements which means they attend training
courses and there is nobody to cover for their position while they are
out. Needless to say, they are also
confronted with unforeseen circumstances such as injury leave, death in a
family, or maternity leave and as mentioned before there is no one to cover for
those positions while they’re out. For
instance, we had a female CSI who was out for almost a year due to her
pregnancy.
This clearly shows that there is a demand for
CSIs, because not only are the victims being victimized once by the different
kinds of crimes that are being committed against them, but twice by the Laredo
Police Department not offering the proper services to the citizens of Laredo
need.
6. The
following shoes cities of comparable sizes in Texas and the number of
investigators for each city.
Police Department City
Pop. # of Officers # of Invest.
Lubbock, Tx. 198,000 320 90
Plano, Tx 200,000 317 85
Amarillo, Tx 170,000 280 70
Laredo, Tx 200,000 371 74
In addition to Laredo’s estimated population,
Laredo also has approximately 35,000 who cross on a daily basis according to
the U. S. Customs statistics.
Information was obtained from each police
department’s personnel division.
7. Upon
speaking to several field supervisors, they concluded that each district
needs 2 Crime Scene Investigators which would be
a total of 30 CSIs working for the city plus the 12 detectives
aforementioned. This means that the
city now has 10 which is only 1/3 of what the city demands. We currently have a promotional list of 20
investigators and only 10 to increase the productivity within the Laredo Police
Department investigations as a whole.
8.
Reclassification vs. Creation of
Positions
The following is the amount of money the city
will pay if the remaining 10 positions were to be reclassified:
Each patrolman position makes approximately
$38,000.00 annually and each Investigator makes approximately $48,000.00, which
means that if the city were to reclassify 10 patrolmen positions to
investigator positions, the total cost would be $100,000.00 annually.
**Take into consideration that the approximate
amount of money the city is paying on overtime due to the shortage of
Investigators throughout the department is $26,000.00 annually (see attachment
for explanation of this), which means that if you subtract the $36,000.00 the
city will no longer have to pay for overtime (due to Inv. Shortage) from the $100,000.00 if allowing
the reclassification, the city will only pay an approximate total of $64,000.00
annually, but will have the right amount of investigators the city demands for
the best investigation productivity. Also,
the Laredo Police Department has been obtaining federal grants that have
between approved by the city to hire 65 new patrol officers and have just
obtained another federal grant for 30 more patrolmen positions yet to be
approved by the city, but if obtained the city would only reclassify 10
patrolmen positions of the 95 for investigators.
The following is the amount of money the city
will pay if the positions were to be created:
10 investigator positions created equals to
$480,000.00 annually.
III. The following breakdown represents the
approximate amount of money that was spent to obtain the current promotional
investigator list.
Exam preparation 1
week pay salary for Cesar Garza & 1 staff $130,000
March 27, 2001 101
patrolman took the exam
Test copies $8,599.00
Appeals Prep 1
wk salary for administrative worker $900.00
Appeals Proceedings 20
patrolman for 2 hours $800.00
Court Reporter $2,000.00
1 week salary for Cesar Garza and 1 staff` $1,300.00
Oral board Proceedings (3 days)
1 investigator $562.80
2 Investigators from Corpus Christi, * not included
Approximate Total Cost $17,861.80
Motion to instruct staff to look at this at this
presentation and come back with recommendations.
Moved:
Cm. J. Valdez
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. E.
Valdez expressed a desire for staff to follow up on the current overtime of
officers for the department and the backlog of cases that are pending and
report back to Council.
2.
Discussion with possible action regarding the proposed recommended
changes
for
advertising on taxi cabs. (Co-sponsored
Council Member Johnny Amaya)
Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director, said the
Vehicle for Hire Ad Hoc Committee is a sub-committee of the Transportation
&Traffic Advisory Committee. He
said that all the recommendations from the ad-hoc committee must be approved by
the Transportation & Traffic Committee and their meeting was canceled
because of a lack of quorum. However,
they are having another meeting soon and will address all the amendments
brought before them. He added that the
ad hoc committee was in favor of changes for advertising on taxi cabs.
Motion to instruct staff to initiate an amendment
amending those sections that have been approved by the Ad Hoc Committee.
Moved: Cm. J.
Valdez
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion with possible action on traffic
calming devices in District VII.
Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director, said the
Transportation and Traffic Safety Committee is addressing the issue of traffic
calming devices. Staff will report back
to Council with recommendations for approval.
4.
Discussion with possible action regarding the paving of one block of
Pierce
Street west of Eagle Pass.
Keith Selman, City Planner, gave a comprehensive
report regarding the paving of one block of Pierce Street west of Eagle
Pass. He explained that the developer
had replatted the block to increase the lot count and density. Permits were given to the developer because
the ordinance mandates that three elements be in place and he had complied;
however, the road way was never open until the developer opened it. The developer is responsible for paving the
entire roadway.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, went on to
explain that the developer is not responsible for paving the entire
roadway. He is responsible for the
paving half of the roadway. He is also responsible for gutters, sidewalks, and
drive way areas stated in the specs.
The City will need to provide a hard weather service for the other half
of the roadway. The hard weather
surface will avoid having to cut up the streets when the other section is
developed and the need to extend other utilities arises.
F. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1.
Requesting the recognition of Ricardo De Anda for his donation of trees
for the
beautification of San Agustin Plaza.
Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director,
presented a plaque to Ricardo De Anda for donating twelve oak trees valuing
$3,800 for the beautification of San Agustin Plaza.
Motion to recognize Ricardo De Anda.
Moved:
Cm. Ramirez
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Requesting the recognition of Justo Penn for
his donation to Las Palmas Park.
Receiving the recognition for the Justo Penn was
Wayo Leyendecker. He thanked Council
and the City for accepting the donation of a parcel of land which will become
part of the Las Palmas River Park. He
recognized the descendents of Justo Penn.
Motion to recognize and accept the donation of a
parcel of land from the descendents of Justo S. Penn.
Moved:
Cm. Ramirez
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3.
Letter to TXDoT requesting the use of overpass for parking on Sanchez
and Park
for
the Jamboozie Festival and WBCA, with possible action.
Cynthia Collazo, Assistant City Manager, reported
the City has received the agreements from TxDOT and the item will be placed on
the next City Council agenda so the City Manager can be authorized to execute
the agreements.
4.
Discussion with possible action regarding sidewalks using District VIII
discretionary funds for the following
streets: 800 block of Jefferson Street
(south side), 800 block of Garden Street (north side).
Motion to use District VIII discretionary funds
for the south side of the 800 block of Jefferson Street.
Moved:
Cm. Ramirez
Second:
Cm. Galo
For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the final readings of Final
Readings of Ordinances # 2003-O-001, # 2003-O-002, # 2003-O-003, # 2003-O-004,
# 2003-O-005, # 2003-O-006, # 2003-O-007, # 2003-O-008, # 2003-O-009, #
2003-O-010, # 2003-O-011, # 2003-O-012, # 2003-O-013, # 2003-O-014, #
2003-O-015 and # 2003-O-016.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Garcia
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-001
Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by authorizing
the
issuance of a Special Use Permit for townhouses
on 9.9237 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit
“A”, located west of McPherson Road and southwest of Ranchway Drive, providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-001.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-002
Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning
3.2485 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds on attached Exhibit “A”, located at 7060 San Bernardo Avenue, from B-3
(Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-002.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-003 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1,
Block 31, Santa Rita Subdivision, Unit XI, located at 501 Lope de Vega
Drive,
from R-1A (Single Family Residential Area District) and B-1 (Limited
Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-003.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-004
Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots
6, 8, and 10, Block 1030, Western Division,
located at 4102 Santa Maria Avenue, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to
B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective
date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-004.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-005 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning
4.3876 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached
Exhibit
“A”, located at the rear of 3901 East Saunders Street, from R-1 (Single
Family
Residential District) and R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-3
(Community
Business District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-005.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-006 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning
2.2924 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit
“A”, located at 6801 McPherson Road,
from B-1 (Limited Commercial
District) to B-3 (Community Business
District); providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-006.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-007 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning
1.4151 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on attached
Exhibit
“A”, located west of Highway 83 and north of Santa Marta Boulevard, from
B-
3 (Community Business District) to R-1MH (Single Family Manufactured
Housing District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-007.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-008 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1
through 6, Block 1066, Western Division, located at the 4300 block of
San
Agustin Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-3 (Community
Business District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-008.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-010 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
budget amendment appropriating
operation funds from the
Urban Transportation Grant, Section 5307 for fiscal
year 2002-2003 in the amount of $41,781.00
increasing the State Operating Grant from $500,000.00 to $541,781.00 and
decreasing the sales tax match from $3,825,955.00 to $3,784,174.00 and
transferring $41,781.00 to sales tax reserve appropriation.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-010.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-011 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003
annual budget by appropriating
revenues and expenditures in the amount of $17,833.00 in additional
funds
from the Texas Department of Health 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 #
2003-O-011.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-012 Authorizing the City Manager to amend the
City of Laredo’s full-time
equivalent positions by creating three (3) part-time with no benefits
(1.44
FTE) Community Service Aides positions at 19.21 hours per week in
the
Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) of the City of Laredo Health
Department, funded by the Texas Department of Health.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-012.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-013 Amending Chapter 19, Motor Vehicle and
Traffic, Article VIII, Stopping,
Standing or Parking, of
the Code of Ordinances, City of Laredo:
specifically
adding Section 19-364(5)
which establishes certain street sections adjacent to
Shiloh Drive and to the
north entrance of the United High School campus as
permit parking only/tow
away zones between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30
p.m., Monday through
Friday, providing for effective date and publication.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-013.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-014 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease with Nextel WIP Lease
Corporation, a Delaware Corporation, d/b/a Nextel Partners, space on the
rooftop of the Laredo Transit Center located at 1301 Farragut, Laredo,
Webb
County, Texas and being more fully described
in Exhibit “A” of lease
agreement for the installation and operation of certain antennae
facilities for
use with its communications business and a portion within the owned
premises
for the location of an equipment building
and related facilities associated with
the antennae facilities.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-014.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-015
Authorizing the City Manager to grant a license to Alestra S. De R.L. de
C.V.,
a Mexican Corporation for the use of a telecommunication PVC conduit
located at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge and the use of 47 linear
feet
of City right-of-way from the river bank to the 500 block of Iturbide
Street,
Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
License term is five (5) years commencing on
January 6, 2003 and ending January 5, 2008. Annual rent shall start at
$7,600.00 with a five percent (5%) increase each anniversary date plus
$5.00
per linear foot for the use of the right of way; providing for effective
date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-015.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-016 Authorizing the City Manager to convey fee
simple of the surface only of all
former streets lying within the area of Tract “A” of 51.7338 acres, and
to
quitclaim the balance of Tract “A” to
Mexrail, Inc. and to convey fee simple of
the surface only of the Tract “B” of 0.3543 acres to Mexrail, Inc. and
to
convey fee simple of the surface only of Tract “C” of 2.1085 acres to
Mexrail,
Inc. in exchange for conveyance to the
City of Laredo by Mexrail, Inc. of the
fee simple of the surface only of Tract “D” of 12.8617 acres, and the
fee
simple of the surface only of Tract “E” of 0.0072 acre, and of a
sanitary sewer
easement over Tract “F” of 0.8223 acre; and providing for effective
date.
Said tracts being generally described below, and more particularly
described
on attached Exhibits “A”, “B”, “C”, “D”, “E”, and “F” respectively.
Tract “A” consisting of Aldama, Willow, Chacon, Piedra China, Green
&
Mercer Streets, and Maryland, Lexington, Cedar & Logan Avenues. Said
streets and avenues being situated in a 51.7338 acre tract of land
consisting of
City blocks and portions of the street
right-of-ways, out of the area known as
the “Embargo Yard”.
Tract “B” being a 0.3543 of an acre (15,434.57 sq. ft.) tract of land,
more or
less, out of the Aldama Street right-of-way between Logan and Tilden
Avenues.
Tract “C” being a 2.1085
acre (91,845.34 sq. ft.) tract of land out of the
existing right-of-way of
Guatemozin & Cortez Streets between Springfield
Avenue and Lexington
Avenues, and Maryland Avenue between Guatemozin
Street and 105.75 feet
north of Cortez Street situated in the Eastern Division,
City of Laredo provided
that the City of Laredo retains the entire said tract as a
utility easement.
Tract “D” being a 12.8617 acre tract
of land, more or less, also referred to as
the “Riverbank Tract”. Said
tract being out of the area known as the
“Embargo Yard”.
Tract “E” being a Corner Clip consisting of a 0.0072 of an acre (312.50
sq. ft.)
tract of land, more or less, out of the Southwest corner of Block 64,
Eastern
Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas. Said tract being out of the
area known as the “Embargo Yard”.
Tract “F” being a tract
of land containing 0.8223 acres (35,818.07 sq. ft.),
more or less, for a 20
foot wide Sanitary Sewer Line Easement, being out of the Mexican National
Construction Company, now known as the Texas Mexican Railway Company, also
known as “Embargo Yard”, recorded in Volume 13, Pages 11-14, on March 12, 1884,
Deed Records of Webb County, Texas.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #
2003-O-016.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. RESOLUTIONS
11.
2003-R-001 Authorizing the City
Manager to accept an FY 2003 Routine Airport
Maintenance Program (RAMP) Grant from the Texas
Department of Transportation CSJ Number M322LREDO for fifty percent (50%) of
the eligible project cost or $30,000.00 whichever is less, per fiscal year and
subject to availability of State appropriations.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-001.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12.
2003-R-002 Authorizing the
donation of an atomic absorption spectrometer with a
microwave digester for metal analysis to Texas
A& M International University (TAMIU) and an ion chromatograph with
automatic sampling capabilities for mineral analysis to Laredo Community
College (LCC) which will be used in the examination of water and wastewater,
since the City has no use for this equipment and plans to dispose of it absent
interested donees.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-002.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13.
2003-R-003 Accepting a 7.92 acre
tract of land, more or less, from the Fasken Trust
for park and open space use located adjacent to
Deerfield Subdivision Phase 2, Lot 1, Block 1 and north of Father McNaboe Park
as described by metes and bounds in Exhibit “A” herein attached.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-003.
Moved:
Cm. J. Valdez
Second:
Cm. Galo
For:
7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14.
2003-R-004 Accepting the
donation of the “Surface Only” of two parcels of land from
Zaftex Corporation, for the construction of a
public park. Said parcels being Tract
B, containing 3.76 acres, and Tract C, containing 3.43 acres, for a total of
7.19 acres of land. Both parcels being out of Share A, Part A, Original Share
1, Bruni Estate, Porcion 32, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; being
generally described below, and more particularly described on attached Exhibit
“A”.
Tract B – Being a 3.76 acre tract of land out of
a 128.093 acre tract, recorded in Volume 410, Pages 79-81, L. E. Bruni to Fred
Galo and H. D. Hall III, Aug. 11, 1971, Porcion 32, Webb County Deed Records,
City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Tract C – Being a 3.43 acre tract of land out of
a 128.093 acre tract, recorded in Volume 410, Pages 79-81, L. E. Bruni to Fred
Galo and H. D. Hall III, Aug. 11, 1971, Porcion 32, Webb County Deed Records,
City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-004.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15.
2003-R-005 Authorizing the City
Manager to submit a grant application with the
Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice
Division for $998,115.00 to fund the Laredo Narcotics Task Force. CJD will designate $998,115.00 and the City
of Laredo and participating agencies will designate $334,778.00 for a total
amount of $1,332,893.00. This funding
will be used to pay salaries, direct operating expenses, and the purchase of
equipment from June 1, 2003 through May 31, 2004.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-005.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. MOTIONS
16.
Amend the 2002 Consolidated Plan by authorizing the reprogramming of
28th Action
Year (AY) Community Development Block Grant
Funds (CDBG) totaling $400,000.00 to be used for the construction of two new
zero depth water spray playgrounds to be located within the area of the Farias
Recreation Center and at the Lafayette Linear Park, and eliminating funding
from the 28th AY CDBG funds for the proposed West Laredo Park.
28th AY
Community Development Block Grant
Farias Splash Playground $200,000.00
Lafayette Splash
Playground $200,000.00
West Laredo Park
(Cancel) $ -0-
Total funds
reprogrammed $400,000.00
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17.
Consideration to exercise the renewal contract option for ninety days
for the following
annual contracts for repair parts and service
for the vehicle fleet and medium and heavy duty trucks: North Park Lincoln, San Antonio, Texas
(FY02-007), in the estimated amount of $20,000.00, Powell Watson Motors,
Laredo, Texas (FY02-007); in the
estimated amount of $10,000.00; and Fleet Pride, Laredo, Texas (FY02-017), in
the estimated amount of $5,000. New
bids will be solicited based on changes on the estimated needs for this
contract period. All parts will be
purchased on an as needed basis.
Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm.
Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18.
Consideration to exercise the renewal contract option for one additional
year for the
following annual contracts for repair parts and
service for the heavy equipment fleet, sweepers and lawn maintenance
equipment: Holt Co. of Texas, Laredo,
Texas, (FY02-008) in the estimated amount of $125,000.00; RDO Equipment Co.,
Laredo, Texas (FY02-008) in the estimated amount of $25,000.00; and Kinlock
Equipment and Supply Inc., Pasadena, Texas, (FY02-018) in the estimated amount
of $40,000.00. All parts will be
purchased on an as needed basis.
Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19.
Consideration for award of a construction contract to the lowest
responsible bidder
meeting requirements of the project of the Inner
City Park to be located on Locust and Plum Streets between Barcelona Avenue and
McDonnel Avenue. The project is funded
through the Lamar Bruni Vergara Trust Fund and Community Development Block
Grant. Contingent upon the final
passage of Ordinance 2003-O-009 on January 27, 2003.
Motion to approve to award contract to Leyendecker
Construction in the amount of $2,546,000.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20.
Consideration for approval of amendment no. 1 an increase of $92,300.00
to the
contract with Howland Engineering & Surveying
Company, Laredo, Texas, for the Laredo International Airport Passenger Terminal
and Related Airside/Landside Improvement Improvements Phase “E” – Taxiway
“J”. This amendment is for additional
inspection services for the Laredo International Airport Northeast Cargo Apron
and Access Road Project and for the Services Road. Funding is available in the Project Engineer Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21.
Amending a contract with CH2MHILL, San Antonio, Texas for $29,000.00 to
include
additional basic engineering services required
to design the water line extension oversize and booster pump station for Mines
Planning Area - Work Order #2 and to extend the contract time to an additional
360 days. The extension brings the
design completion to within 3 months.
The services include additional modeling work for the booster station
and the impact on the existing system for the Mines Road area. The amendment brings the total contract
amount to $241,530.00. Funding is available in the Colonias Project Engineering
Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22.
Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract on
behalf of the
Joint Venture Office in Monterrey, Laredo Trade
& Travel Center, in the amount of
$18,000.00 with Laredo Arena Operating, L.P., for Promotional and Marketing
Services to benefit the Arena; services to be provided by the Laredo Trade
& Travel Center in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23.
Final acceptance of the biosolids Improvement Project and approval of
final payment
of the retainage of $5,000.00 for the final
completion of the contract in the amount of $1,337,914.88. Funding is available in the Biosolids Improvement Project-Retainable
Payable.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. STAFF REPORTS
A.
Status report on improvements to George Washington Park located at Los
Presidentes
and appropriation of $30,000.00 for Phase II
that includes park benches and a playground module. Funding is available in the Capital Improvement Fund District I
Discretionary Funding.
Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director,
relayed that the project is 30% complete.
The cement work is done. He
explained that the Council Member has requested an appropriation of $30,000 for
playground equipment and park benches.
The project will be complete the first week of March.
B.
Report and update on the Laredo International Festival of Sister Cities.
Patricia L. Taylor, Assistant
Director, gave the following report:
Laredo prepares for First International Sister City Festival
From as far west as the western Mexican state of
Sinaloa to as far east as Zixing in the Hunan Province of the People’s Republic
of China, Laredo’s sister cities will descend upon the city to participate in
the first ever International Festival of Sister Cities from Friday, January 31st
through Sunday, February 1st.
The event, organized by the City of Laredo
Convention & Visitor’s Bureau and the City Secretary’s Office, will be held
at the Laredo Civic Center. The
festival highlights the importance of Laredo’s global relationships. Along with Sinaloa, Mexico and Zixing, seven
other Mexican states will also be exhibiting at the festival.
“We’ve received excellent response and cities
are still confirming at this time,”
said Patricia L. Taylor, LCVB
assistant director. “This says a lot
about Laredo’s image as the nation’s largest inland port.”
Beginning with a ribbon cutting ceremony
officiated by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores
on January 31st, exhibitors and visitors alike will have an
opportunity to exchange in dialogue and explore each other’s economy and culture. Exhibitors, in turn, will tour Laredo’s
infrastructure to learn how the fast-paced flow of international trade speeds
through the city on a daily basis.
While the sister cities are the primary
exhibitors, other cities from throughout Mexico have been invited to showcase
their culture and economy as well.
“Monterrey and Mexico City will be sending delegations to the festival,”
Taylor said.
Chambers of Commerce from throughout the state
of Texas have been invited to attend as have high school and university
students. “This festival presents
everyone, from the business leader to the student, with the chance to interact
with the sister cities in a way that has never been done before,” Nick Marks Reyna, LCVB director,
explained. “Whether one’s interest lies
in trade, tourism or technology, there is a sister city ready to engage in
dialogue.”
The event if free of charge to the public. Exhibit hours run from 10 a.m. through 6
p.m. for both days.
Exhibitor Confirmations as of January 13, 2003
Aguascalientes, Aguascalientes
Ciénega de Flores, Nuevo León
Ciudad de México
El Fuerte, Sinaloa
Estado de Coahuila
Gomes Palacio, Durango
Guadalupe, Nuevo León
León, Guanajuato
Mexticacan, Jalisco
Monclova, Coahuila
Monterrey, Nuevo León
Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas
Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo León
San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
Tapachula, Chiapas
Zixing, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of
China
Participating Foreign Organizations to Date
Secretaria de Desarrollo Económicos
México, DF.
Secretaria de Desarrollo Económico
Guadalupe, Nuevo León
Secretaria de Desarrollo Económico
Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo León
Secretaria de Desarrollo Económico
Tapachula, Chiapas
Cámara de Comercio
León, Guanajuato
Instituto Estatal de Turismo
Estado de Coahuila
Cámara de Comercio México/E. U.
Aguascalientes
Ayuntamiento de Cienega de Flore, Nuevo Leon
Ayuntamiento de Mexticacan, Jalisco
Ayuntamiento de Sabinas Hidalgo, Nuevo León
Ayuntamiento de Guadalupe, Nuevo León
Secretaria de Turismo de Nuevo Laredo,
Tamaulipas
Secretaria de Desarrollo Económico
Toluca, Estado de México
Foreign Dignitaries & VIP’s Confirmed to
date
Mayor Zinxing,
Hunan Province, PR China
Vice Mayor The People’s Government of Zixing
Director Standing
Committee of Zixing
Office of the Vice Director Zixing
Overseas Chinese Affaire
Director Zixing
Finance Bureau
General Manager Chenzhou
Sanjiang Ferroalloy co. LTD
Vice Director Hunan
Dongjiang Water & Electricity Factor
Director Zixing
Education Bureau
Chief Powerise
Information Systems Co. LTD
General Manager Zixing
Foreign and Economic Cooperation
Mayor Monclova,
Coahuila
Mayor El
Fuerte, Sinaloa
Vice Presidenta de Comercio Exterior León, Guanajuato
Sub. Secretario de Desarrollo Económico Toluca, Estado de México
XIII. 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.
25.
Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071
(A) & (B) for consultation with the City Attorney regarding
settlement offer pending l
itigation, being Pascual Miravete and Gloria Miravete v. City of Laredo,
Cause No. L-
02-CV-46, in the US District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo
Division, and
Oscar J. Pena and Martha Pena, Cause No. L-02-CV-47, in the US District
Court,
Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division, and return to open session
for possible
action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section
551.071 (A) & (B) for consultation with the City Attorney regarding
settlement offer
pending litigation, being Pascual Miravete and Gloria Miravete v. City
of Laredo,
Cause No. L-02-CV-46, in the US District Court, Southern District of
Texas, Laredo
Division, and Oscar J. Pena and Martha Pena, Cause No. L-02-CV-47, in
the US
District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division, and return
to open session
for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore
Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session the Mayor announced that no formal action was
taken.
26.
Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section
551.072 in
order to deliberate the possible purchase, lease
or value of certain property in North Laredo for open space and green belt use,
because deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the
position of the City Council in negotiations with third persons, and return to
open session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to
Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to deliberate the possible
purchase, lease or value of certain property in North Laredo for open space and
green belt use, because deliberation in an open meeting would have a
detrimental effect on the position of the City Council in negotiations with
third persons, and return to open session for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore
Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session the Mayor announced that
no formal action was taken.
Motion to proceed with negotiations.
Moved: Cm. E.
Valdez
Second:
Cm. Galo
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND
CONVENE AS THE MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as
the Mass Transit Board.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27.
Consideration to extend the award of contracts (FY02-004), to the listed
vendors for
providing bus and van fleet parts for a period
of ninety days: Andy’s Auto Air ($3,500.00), CC Battery Co. Inc. ($3,600.00),
Gillig ($22,500.00), Laurel Battery ($25,000.00), Laredo Wholesale Auto
($1,000.00), MCI Service Parts ($10,000.00), McCarty Equipment ($500.00),
Muncie Transit Supply ($17,500.00), O’Reilly Auto Parts ($3,000.00), Prevost
Car, Inc. ($7,875.00), Rush Truck Center ($1,750.00), San Antonio Brake &
Clutch ($4,100.00), and Stewart & Stevenson ($31,000.00). This ninety-day extension will allow the
management company to work with staff to secure competitive bids for a new
contract period. Funding is available
in the Transit Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. ADJOURN AS THE MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND
RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Motion to adjourn as the Mass
Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. 9:50
p.m.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do
herby certify that the above minutes contained in pages 01 to 31 are true,
complete and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on January
13, 2003.
__________________
Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.
City
Secretary