CITY OF LAREDO

                                              CITY COUNCIL MEETING

                                                              M2003-R-06

                                            CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

                                                1110 HOUSTON STREET

                                                 LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

                                                        MARCH 24, 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 Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

III.       ROLL CALL

 

            In attendance:

 

            Elizabeth G.  Flores,                                                                 Mayor

            Alfredo Agredano,                                                                    Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

            Hector Garcia,                                                                          Council Member, District II

            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

            Larry Dovalina,                                                                         City Manager

            Cynthia Collazo,                                                                       Assistant City Manager

            Gustavo Guevara, Jr.,                                                               City Secretary

 

            Motion to excuse Cm.  Galo.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

            Second:  Cm.  Garcia

            For:     6                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

           

IV.       MINUTES

 

Approval of the minutes and work product of the Strategic Planning Workshop of  

            September 28, 2002 and City Council meeting of January 27, 2003.

 

            Motion to approve.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

            Second:  Cm.  Eliseo Valdez

            For:     6                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

Announcements

 

            None.

 

Invitations

 

None.

 

Recognitions

 

a.  Recognition by the Mayor and City Council of employees that retired from the City of 

     Laredo with 20 or more years of service.

 

The Mayor and City Council Members presented the following individuals with plaques for retiring from the City of Laredo with 20 years or more of service:

 

Martha D.  Aristoltelidis (21 years) Health Department

Antonio Bustos (29 years)  Public Works Department

Isabel J.  Contreras (25 years) Public Works Department

Mariano D.  Flores (28 years) Building Code Department

Geronimo Gallegos (22years) Utilities Department

Leopoldo Garibay (43 years) Parks & Recreation Department

Guadalupe Gonzalez (25 years) Parks & Recreation Department

Jose R.  Gonzalez (28 years) Fire Department

Teofilo Gonzalez (37 years) Public Works Department

Jose R.  Hernandez (30 years) Public Works Department

Juan M.  Hernandez (22 years) Parks & Recreation Department

Jose J.  Jimenez (25 years) Fire Department

Juan E.  Martinez (22 years) Utilities Department

Pascual Martinez (24 years) Parks & Recreation Department

Rolando Martinez (21 years) Tax Department

Reyes Medina, Jr., (28 years) Utilities Department

Bertha Mendez (25 years) Police Department

Rey Molina (24 years) Public Works Department

Eugenio Moncivais, Jr. (29 years) Fire Department

Juan A.  Morales (35 years) Public Works Department

Cesario Morales, Jr., (37 years) Public Works Department

Ramiro R.  Moreno (22 years) Bridge Department

Adela B.  Pena (22 years) Police Department

Laura J.  Pichot (21 years) Parks & Recreation Department

Vicente Ramirez (20 years) Utilities Department

Lucila C.  Romo (21 years) Police Department

Gilberto L.  Rubio (30 years) Health Department

Maria L.  Salinas (31 years) health Department

Sixto Salinas (28 years) Public Works Department

Jesus M.  Sanchez (37 years) Building Department

 

 

Communiqués

 

a.  Presentation by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores, Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council

     Member John C. Galo, Council Member Gene Belmares and Council Member Hector J.

     Garcia regarding trip to Washington, D.C. 

 

Cm.  Garcia read the following statement: 

 

“The Washington trip was a great success for the City of Laredo overall.  Staff, Mayor, and the City Council, together with the private sector, presented a United Fund for the South Texas Congressional Delegation of Federal Agencies alike.  The level of experience and the flow of presentation were impressive as the staff, elected officials, member of the private sector, and the Chamber of Commerce talked about challenges facing the City and the need for federal assistance.  I attended several meetings involving a diversity of issues as important as homeland security, health and drug abuse, and the development of more parks and recreational programs.  I visited with the National Parks and Recreation Association, the Director of Public Policies where we discussed the lack of funding for park rehabilitation under the National Park Service in the Urban Park Program.  (A program where the City of Laredo benefited by $485,000 last year to rehabilitee the Seven Flag Park.)  Our visit and intent to assist in the advocate was a result of a sharing of information and establishing a network for further possibilities.  Additional meetings including the agency of Fish and Wildlife and Housing and Urban Development where we all will received and allocated  two and a half hours with their staff to discuss the opportunities of the Colonia program and the Home Grant Program among other things.  As a Council Member, traveling for the first time representing the City of Laredo, I was impressed and motivated with the professional organization of our staff, our Senior Council Members, and our Mayor.  I can hopefully say that this trip makes a difference in our community.  I encourage the citizens of Laredo to make the trip with us.  I look forward to going next year.”

 

Cm.  E.  Valdez mentioned that it was an honor and a privileged to have been part of a delegation made up of at least 65 people presenting a unified front for the City of Laredo.  It is the only way the City of Laredo can stay ahead of the competition.  He thanked the private sector for their contributions in helping the City of Laredo host the presentations.  Finally, he discussed the different agencies where safety, health, housing, and crime issues were discussed. 

 

Cm.  Belmares added that the legislative consultants coordinated 69 meetings in Washington for Council Members and staff to attend in three days.  He mentioned the key to the entire trip was to be able to articulate the City of Laredo’s message to individuals that need to know about Laredo’s needs.  He went on to say how impressed he was with the staff from the City of Laredo. 

 

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, mentioned the four individuals that were instrumental in organizing the George Washington trip.  He said the success of the trip would be measured in the months to come.  He mentioned the importance of networking with congressmen, senators, deputy secretaries and administrators of federal agencies all of which would be instrumental in achieving recognition for the Laredo area. 

 

Keith Selman, City Planner, mentioned that staff vigorously raised the issue of the reauthorization of IST.  He explained that IST is a five year appropriation bill that will authorize all roadway constructions in the United States. 

 

Mayor Flores noted the performance of the Mariachi that performed.  She also reported that the staff was able to move into high tech by presenting their presentations on cd’s rather than bulky binders. 

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano read a letter from Scan, Inc. in favor of creating an ordinance that would prohibit smoking in public places where children visit. 

 

Cm. Amaya expressed his concern for the War in Iraq. 

 

Cm.  J.  Valdez thanked Sames Motor company the opening of their car dealership in his district. He expressed his thanks to all the individuals that visited Washington.  Finally, he expressed his desire for the conflict in Iraq to be over.   

 

Juan Ramirez reiterated other Council Members by thanking all the individuals who went to Washington. 

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

        

            The Mayor appointed Cm.  Garcia to the Women’s Commission .

 

VII.      PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

1.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the 

     City of Laredo by rezoning 9.6982 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in 

     attached Exhibit “A”, located south of Highway 359 and approximately one and a half 

     miles east of Loop 20, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to R-1A (Single 

     Family Reduced Area District); providing for publication and effective date.  The

     Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone

     change.    

 

     Motion to open the public hearing.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  Valdez

     For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Garcia

 

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

City of Laredo by rezoning 8.48 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in   

attached Exhibit “A”, located at the rear of 6801 McPherson Road, 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 approval of the proposed zone change.     

 

     Motion to open the public hearing.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  E.  Valdez

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                                      Against:                                                Abstain:

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  E.  Valdez

 

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

     City of Laredo by rezoning 16.05 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in  

     attached Exhibit “A”, located west of Indian Sunset Subdivision, Phase 3, from AG

     (Agricultural District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District); providing for

     publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended

     approval of the proposed zone change.

 

     Motion to open the public hearing.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     Second:  Cm.  Ramirez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

 

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

     City of Laredo by rezoning 3.6584 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in 

     attached Exhibit “A”, located west of Highway 83 and north of Santa Martha Boulevard,

     from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway 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.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Belmares

 

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

City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 10, 11, and 12, Block 791, Eastern Division, located at  

1402 Chihuahua St., from R-O (Residential/Office District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.

 

     Motion to open the public hearing.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  Garcia

     For:     7                                          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:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

 

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

     City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 5, 6, 7, and 8, Block 527, Eastern Division, located at   

     902 San Carlos St. from R-3 (Mixed Residential 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.  Amaya

     Second:  Cm.  Garcia

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    Sergio Rodriguez spoke in favor of the zone change.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

     Second:  Cm.  Ramirez

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Amaya

 

7.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the

     City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 6, Block 191, Western Division, located at 1115 San

     Dario Avenue, 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.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  Garcia

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

Antonio Vela, property owner, spoke in favor of the zone change request stating that San Dario is already a commercial zone area.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Ramirez

     Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

     For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Ramirez

 

8.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the   

City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 8 and the west 22.56 feet of Lot 7, Block 1692, Eastern Division, located at 2401 Arkansas Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed 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.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  Amaya

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and go with staff’s recommendation to deny.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

     Second:  Cm.  Amaya

     For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

9.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2002-2003  

     annual budget by increasing the revenue and expenditure appropriations in the amount of 

     $1,440,000.00 for the lease purchase of 60 police sedans for the Laredo Police

     Department.  Funding is available in the Police Trust Fund.

 

     Motion to open the public hearing.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

     For:    7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

    There was no public input.

 

     Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

     Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

     Second:  Cm.  Amaya

     For:    7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

     Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

10.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo

       2002-2003 annual budget in the amount of $89,410.00 for the Laredo Financial

       Disruption Task Force.  Funding is available from the opening fund balance of

       the Financial Task Force Fund (223) and will be used to purchase equipment.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

      There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

      Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

11.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2002-2003

annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $5,000.00   

from the Texas Department of Health for “Los Dos Laredos” Binational Health Council of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period of October 1, 2002 through September 30, 2003.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

Second:  Cm.  Garcia

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

12.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending ordinance 88-O-006 of January 5,  

       1988 as amended by ordinance 89-O-131 of July 17, 1989 and Ordinance 97-O-148 of

       July 7, 1997, to create a Summer Fun Bus Pass fee for students at a rate of $19.95 for  

       students ages 6-18 years old to provide unlimited rides on all El Metro buses during the  

       Summer months from June 1, 2003 through August 31, 2003.

 

      Motion to open the public hearing.

 

      Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

      Second:  Cm.  Amaya

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

     There was no public input.

 

      Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

      Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

      Second:  Cm.  Ramirez

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

      Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

13.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year

2003 Capital Improvements Projects Fund annual budget by appropriating revenues of $481,500.00 in the form of a grant and appropriating expenditures in the amount of $481,500.00 for the construction and redevelopment of Seven Flags Park with 80% funding from the National Park Service UPARR Grant Program, 10% from Texas Parks and Wildlife and 10% local matching funds from

Community Development Block Grants.

 

        Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

      There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Ramirez

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       Introduction Ordinance:  Cm.  Ramirez

 

14.    Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2002-2003  

annual budget, Capital Improvements Fund by appropriating $4,400,000.00 from fund    

balance and appropriating expenditures in the amount of $4,400,000.00 for the Civic

Center renovation and expansion project.

 

       Motion to open the public hearing.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

 

      There was no public input.

 

       Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

      Moved:  Cm.  Ramirez

      Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

      For:     7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

       Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

15.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 31-3 of the Code of

Ordinances to provide for two exceptions to the prohibition of water services for other than industrial purposes outside city limits, these exceptions being for future water service (1) to the Colonias and (2) to any facility or building owned by the City of Laredo or Webb County; and providing for an effective date.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

There was no public input.

 

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as amended to include UISD.

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

For:     6                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

16.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into a

contract with the Laredo Independent School District, and amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditure in the amount of $73,500.00 for Immunization Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning April 1, 2003 through August 31, 2003.

 

Motion to open the public hearing.

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        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:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

VIII.     GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

     

17.  A.  Request by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores

 

1.  Discussion with possible action to have the Fire Department  work with

property owners along Del Mar Blvd. between McPherson and Loop 20 to   

cooperate in providing a fire break along the fence line to address  potential fire

     hazards.   (Co-sponsored by Cm. Gene Belmares)

 

Chief Sosa affirmed the fire hazard and assured Council that his staff would be working with the property owners to alleviate the fire hazard along Del Mar Blvd. between McPherson and Loop 20. 

 

                   B.  Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya

 

1.  Discussion with possible action on placing sidewalks on the 3000 block

                 of East San Francisco.

 

Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that the proposed sidewalks are included with the Zacate Creek Project which will being in two week. 

 

2.  Discussion with possible action on paving the 3000 block of San

                 Francisco.  

 

Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, explained that staff cannot pave the 3000 block of San Francisco because there is no right of way.  The embankment goes all the way to the property line. 

 

                     C.  Request by Council Member Gene Belmares

 

1.  Presentation and discussion on a petition against the removal of the

                 stop signs at the intersection of Springfield and Sunset, with possible action.

 

Fred Santos, submitted a petition from residents of the Regency Park Subdivision with a total of 262 signatures.  He spoke against removal of the stop signs at the intersection of Springfield and Sunset. 

 

Referring to the removal, Minnie Dora Bum Haynes spoke against because of safety reasons.      

 

Richard Morales added the City may face a liability issue if they remove the stop signs. 

 

Larry Norton asked Council to reconsider removal of the stop signs at the intersection of Springfield and Sunset for safety reasons. 

 

George Johnson noted the low accident count is due to the current stop signs and removal of the signs may have an adverse affect. 

 

Dr.  Gladys Keene spoke against removing the stop signs.

 

Ronnie Freeman discussed several reasons why the stop signs should not be removed including the bus stop that is stationed at the intersection. 

 

Arnulfo Gonzalez said that he has had an accident at the corner of Springfield and Sunset because of the blind spot.  He asked Council to reconsider removing the stop signs. 

 

Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director, discussed the traffic studies along the Springfield intersections.  He noted the staff recommended removal of the signs because are causing a delay now the stop signs were installed on Village and Springfield.  Hence, staff is continuing to search for a solution to a smoother vehicle flow in the entire Springfield area.    

 

Motion to leave the stop signs as they are.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:     8                                          Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

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

 

1.  Discussion with possible action regarding the issue of loose gravel on

                 Mines Road and what preventive measures the City could implement.

 

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, noted that staff would be contacting TxDOT for a quick solution to the loose gravel on Mines Road.   

 

2.  Discussion with possible action regarding the parking problems on the

                 1400 block of Pierce.

              

Keith Selman, City Planner, said the activity has been authorized because of a  misinterpretation of the ordinance and the parking mandate.  Staff needs to approach legal for a solution.

 

Cm.  J. Valdez asked staff to place the item back on the agenda.

 

3.  Discussion with possible action regarding the striping and placement of

                 street buttons on Lowry Road from Mines Road to the creek bridge.

 

                 After the resurfacing of the Lowry Rd to continue with this project.

 

Motion to instruct staff to re-stripe and placement of street buttons on Lowry Road from Mines Road to the creek bridge.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Valdez

Second:

For::                                     Against:                                    Abstain:

 

4.  Discussion with possible action regarding the resurfacing of Lowry Road

                             from the creek bridge section to Atlanta Drive.

 

Cm.  Jose Valdez said he wanted to change the street from Albany to Atlanta drive.  

 

Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, noted the cost for including resurfacing of Lowry would be $18,000.   

 

Motion to create a change order from the Rancho Viejo Widening Project to the resurfacing of Lowry Road from the creek bridge section to Atlanta Drive.   

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

Second:  Cm.  E.  Valdez

For:     7                                          Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

       E.  Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez

 

1.  Discussion with possible action regarding traffic striping at Santa

                 Maria between Park and Sanchez.

 

Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director, said based on instructions from TxDOT the City followed their design which was created through  safety funding.  Staff needs to contact TxDOT for further instructions. 

 

2.  Discussion with possible action to amend 2002-2003 annual budget to

                 increase hourly rates at Public Works and Solid Waste employees.

 

Mayor Flores noted the Council’s responsibility is to approve or disapprove the budget and not to hire or fire.  She continued by saying that staff was instructed to create a committee which would review all the wages and further adjustment could be made depending upon their recommendations. 

 

Carlos Delgado, a city employee, mentioned that no employees have received adjustments to date.  He also asked  I would like to touch 2 subjects.  In October that the 4 lower levels will be discussed and we have had no contact with larry Dovalina.  Even though the department has improved that is more work than we are being paid for and the other subject is for city council to give us permission to assemble in the parking lots.  This afternoon Oscar Medina Reymundo mado we can assemble after we punch out we was waiting and we were told to leave.  We want to assemble or permission to post our flyers.  That is not asking too much. 

 

Jose Angel Gonzalez stated that they have been waiting since November for the classifications they want results soon.

 

Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, reported that they have brought this item we were brought this item during the budget workships and one of the actions is we raise a number to $8 an hour.  I made a recommendation to put a committee together at that time. We should have 11 members and that committee has a representatives it is structure where we have 2 directors, 3 clerical or administrative staff employees, 2 management employees 3 non managements employees and one administrative we were monitoring the economic conditions in the 1st quarter.  I communicated w/city manager we have tried 2 times to meet.  We are going to meet tomorrow. We are looking at 33 classifications we have looked at 2 so far.  I’m in the process of presenting that to the committee and explain what that datat means.  Help them understand what they are going to aco look at compensation the value of the position.  The city has a ways of review or evaluate all the questionnaires.  My first objective is to the committee understand.  Our objective is to review Grades R22 to R 25.  we will be looking at that in the next meetings.  We will be talking to a number of the cities.  I would like to come back in april.

 

Memo

As previously discussed, I have established an Employee Compensation Review Committee to review Grades R22 to R25 and recommend a pay plan strategy to address potential inequities.  The recommendations of this committee would be reviewed by you and presented to the City Council for consideration and possible action.

 

The following is presented for your consideration:

 

Committee will consist of the following:

2     Directors

       Roberto Murrillo, Traffic Director

       Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director

3     Clerical or Administrative Staff employees:

       Luis De Leon, Environmental Services Department

       Elsa Gonzalez, MIS

       Janie Garcia, Financial Services Department

2     Management employees

       Humberto Garza, Airport Department

       Dora Maldonado, Texas Department

3     Non Management employees

       Jose Luis Hinojosa, Bridge Department

       Jose Rico, Solid Waste Department

       Nora C.  Guerra, Health Department

 

       1 Administrative Services Department Director

 

Motion to appoint a council member to the committee

 

Moved:  Cm.  Ramirez

 

Mayor denied move.

 

CM.  Ramirez – I’m requesting a copy of the 9 points for evaluation. 

 

Larry that has nothing to do with the compensation committee.  The committee is looking at the plan.  How it deals with like employees of the 2000 employees.  You have classified and the type of wok that is done.  there is a balance in the committee.  It does not affect the evaluation.  You can look at the list and you will see where they work.  You have a balance within the committee to show you there is a balance between management and non management. He has an equitable distribution within the committee. 

 

3.  Discussion with possible action on requiring restaurants to install

     diaper change stations in their restrooms.

 

Keith Selman, City Planner, there is no provision in the code that would require and amenity you see it some store and not in others.  I don’t recommend any health code.

 

The Mayor suggest for the clientele to approach the business owners and ask them to install the diaper changers.

 

4.  Discussion with possible action on starting a 4th of July Parade.

 

                            

IX.       INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

 

18.  An ordinance re-adopting guidelines and criteria governing tax abatements by the City   

of Laredo, as required by State law; providing for severability, publication, and effective date.

 

Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

19.    Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Assignment of Lease between the City of   

Laredo, as Lessor, and International Bank of Commerce (“IBOC”) and Sanchez O’Brien Oil and Gas Corp., A Joint Venture, as Tenant/Assignor, for approximately 26,965 sq. ft. of land, including the approximate 12,000 square feet constituting the west section of Hangar No. 1309 located at the Laredo International Airport authorized by Ordinance No. 93-O-029 dated March 1, 1993, and as amended on January 5, 1998, by Ordinance No. 97-O-323. Said Assignment will be to Labata Services, as Assignee.  All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in effect; and contingent upon

approval of the Assignment of Lease, further authorizing the City Manager to

execute a Release of Tenant’s Liability, for the benefit of International Bank

of Commerce and Sanchez O’Brien Oil and Gas Corporation, A Joint Venture;

providing for an effective date.

 

Introduction Ordinance:  City Council

 

X.        FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 

 

            Motion to waive the final readings of Ordinance #

 

            Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

    

20.  2003-O-062  Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement

between the City of Laredo and U.S. Customs Service, Special Agent in Charge, San Antonio, Texas for the purpose of receiving reimbursable costs for overtime resources for joint operational task forces.  The term of this agreement is from October 1, 2002, through September 30, 2005.  These funds will be reimbursed to the City.  The total reimbursable overtime amount allowed is $13,000.00 per officer per fiscal year for seven narcotic officers (October-September).  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the 2002-2003 annual budget in the amount

of $91,000.00.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-062.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2003-O-063  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the 2002-2003 annual budget in

     the amount of $47,458.00 for the Laredo Multi-Agency Narcotics Task        

     Force.  Funding is available in the opening balance of the Narcotics Task    

     Force Fund 224 and will be used to pay overtime benefits for the period

     beginning March 1, 2003 through May 31, 2003.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-063.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2003-O-064  Amending Chapter 19, Motor Vehicle and Traffic, Article VIII, Stopping,

     Standing or Parking and Article X, impoundment of vehicles of the Code  

     of Ordinances, City of Laredo; specifically Section 19-360, Parking

     Meters to extend the northern parking meter boundary from Moctezuma  

     to Scott Street and providing for publication and effective date.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-064.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2003-O-065  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Transit System

     budget amendment reducing the State operating grant transfer in the  

     amount of $541,781.00 by $11,872.00 to $529,909.00 and increasing the

     transfer in sales tax amount from $3,825,955.00 by $11,872.00 to    

     $3,837,827.00 for FY 2002-2003.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-065.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2 003-O-066  Amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2002-2003 General Fund

                            annual budget by appropriating expenditures in the amount of

                $189,888.00 from the Technology Fund fees collected by the

    Municipal Court.  Funds are being appropriated from the restricted  

    opening fund balance and will be used to purchase the new software  

    system for the Municipal Court.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-066.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2003-O-067  Amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003 annual budget by 

                                        appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $45,000.00 

                                        from the Texas Association of Local Health Officials (TALHO) for Bio-             

                                        terrorism Consequence Management/Automated Disease Surveillance

                                        Pilot Project for the City of Laredo Health Department for the period

    beginning January 1, 2003 through August 31, 2003.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-067.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2003-O-068  Amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003 Water Availability Fund

    Annual Budget by appropriating revenues of $2,900,000.00 from

                                        the opening balance and appropriating expenditures in the amount of

                                        $2,900,000.00 for the Water Rights Acquisition.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-068.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 

       2003-O-069  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo’s Full-Time

                Equivalent Positions by creating two (2) part-time with no benefits

                (.96 FTE) Community Service Aides positions at 19.21 hours each per

                week for the HIV Hepatitis C Screening Project of the City of Laredo

                Health Department for the period from September 1, 2002, through

                August 31, 2003.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-069.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

  2003-O-070  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 

each per week in the HIV Prevention Project of the City of Laredo Health

Department, funded by the Texas Department of Health.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-070.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

       2003-O-071  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo’s Full-Time                

                            Equivalent Positions by creating one (1) part-time with no benefits (.48

                            FTE) Community Service Aid position at 19.21 hours per week for

                            HIV-Infected Persons Project (PSHIP) of the City of Laredo Health                 

                            Department for the period beginning January 1, 2003, through December                          

                            31, 2003.

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-071.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2003-O-072  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo’s Full-Time

    Equivalent Positions by allocating one (.05 FTE) Chief of Public Health  

    Education Division position and deleting one (.05 FTE) Public Health

                                        Technician position for the Mi Futuro (My Future) Abstinence Education

Program of the City of Laredo Health Department from the October 1,   

2002, through September 30, 2003. 

 

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-072.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

 

                   2003-O-073  Authorizing an amendment to the Laredo Municipal Housing

    Corporation (LMHC) Fund for FY 2002-2003 Budget by appropriating  

    revenues and expenditures in the amount of $53,065.00 and authorizing

    the city manager to implement said budget.  

 

    Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-073.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

     2003-O-074  Amending the City of Laredo’s 2002-2003 annual budget by authorizing

   the addition of two (2) Investigator positions by reclassification of two (2)   

    patrolman positions at the Laredo Police Department and authorizing

                            the City Manager to implement said budget.  The approximate additional  

                            cost to the General Fund is $7,236.00 to pay for the salaries and fringe

                            benefits for two (2) additional Investigator positions from March 25, 2003 

                            through September 30, 2003.

 

                            Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2003-O-074.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:      7                             Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XI.       RESOLUTIONS

 

21.  2003-R-025  Authorizing City Manager to enter into a non-financial agreement

                            between the International Language Institute at Texas A&M International

    University to provide English as a second language classes to non-English   

    speaking adults within the City of Laredo at the Laredo Public Library-

    Santo Nino Branch.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-025.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

22.  2003-R-026  Accepting the donation of a fifteen-foot-wide Utility Easement, from the

    United States General Services Administration for the extension of an 

    eight inch water line between Water Street and Ventura Street. Said Utility 

    Easement being out of that portion of the closed Flores Avenue, lying 

    between Block “L” and Block “K”, Western Division, Laredo, Texas, and

    conveyed to the United States of America as per Warranty Deed recorded   

    in Volume 230, Page 351, of the Real Property Records of Webb County, 

    Texas; and being depicted on attached Exhibit “A.”

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-026.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

23.  2003-R-027  Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement between the City

of Laredo Police Department and the United States Customs Service for   

Operation Co-Operation/Outbound and Inbound for overtime costs  

incurred by the Laredo Police Department providing resources for joint 

operational task forces.  The life of this agreement is from January 1, 2003

through September 30, 2005.  This overtime will be reimbursed at no cost to the City. 

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-027.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

24.    2003-R-028  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract between the City of

Laredo and the Verde Corporation, N.D. Hachar Trust, David Hachar,  

Lily Hachar Salazar, and the Estate of Daniel Hachar for provisions of

                water to 5,543 acres referred in the contract as the adjacent land.  This

                            contract will have a life span of 25 years in which the developer(s) wishes 

                            to develop by annexing, platting and building according to all City of

                            Laredo requirements for all or part of the 5,543 acres.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-028.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

25.  2003-R-029  Declaring the public necessity to acquire the “Surface Only” of a 0.7911  

acre tract of land, more or less, to construct an airport perimeter/service    

road at the Laredo International Airport.  Said tract being out of the 

 property known as the Casa Blanca Country Club, City of Laredo, Webb   

 County, Texas; being generally described below, and more particularly

described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit “A”; and authorizing staff to negotiate with Webb County, owner for the acquisition of said parcel by purchase at a market value to be established by a State Certified Real Estate Appraiser, and further authorizing the City Attorney to initiate condemnation proceedings to acquire said parcel if staff is unable to acquire through negotiations due to inability to agree to a purchase price, conflict of ownership, owner refusal to sell, and/or inability to locate the listed owner. 

 

Being a tract of land containing 0.7911 acres, more or less, situated in Porcion 27, Dona Maria G. Sanchez, Original Grantee, Abstract 284, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas.  Said 0.7911 acre tract being out of the property known as the Casa Blanca Country Club as described in a deed dated August 17, 1949, and recorded in Volume 209, Pages 487-489, Deed Records of Webb County, Texas.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-029.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

26.  2003-R-030  Authorizing the City Manager to execute an interlocal government 

                            agreement between the City of Laredo and the Texas Parks and Wildlife

                            Department for the disposal of debris and rubbish from Lake Casa Blanca

                            State Park at the city landfill in exchange for City of Laredo’s use of Lake

                            Casa Blanca State Park Facilities.  This authorization is for two weeks

                            commencing on March 31, 2003 and ending on April 11, 2003.

 

    Motion to approve Resolution # 2003-R-030.

 

    Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

    Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano

    For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

XII.      MOTIONS

 

27.  Consideration for approval of amendment no. 1 an increase of $30,000.00 to the

professional services contract with Rosin Group, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Zacate Creek Linear Park, Phase III, IV & V - Scope of Work II for additional services to provide park facilities, irrigation, sports fields and other work related to park improvements.  Funding is available in the Zacate Creek Park 28th Action Year.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

Second:  Cm.  Valdez

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

28.  Consideration to annul the award of the construction contract to Pete Gallegos Paving,

Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Zacate Creek Linear Park Phases III, IV & V Scope of Work I - Sidewalks Project.  Funding is available in the Zacate Creek Park and Zacate Creek III, IV and V.

 

Motion was withdrawn.

 

29.  Consideration for approval of change order no. 1 a decrease of $4,800.00 for the  

balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of the Civic Center Ballroom Concession Renovations (Design/Build Project) and approval of final payment in the amount of $45,200.00 to United Construction Company, Laredo, Texas.  Final contract amount is $130,200.00.  Funding is available in the Civic Center Fund.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

30.  Consideration of an award of contract to Holt Company of Texas, Laredo, Texas, in the 

estimated amount of $27,048.02 for repairs to a 2000 Caterpillar D8N dozer (tract type tractor).  Repairs are needed to the tracks and undercarriage of this dozer.  This equipment is vital to the operation of the City landfill and staff is requesting City Council authorization to proceed with these repairs.  The replacement cost for this equipment is approximately $380,000.00.  The tracts and undercarriage generally are replaced after four thousand hours of use.  Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance fund.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

31.  Consideration to exercise the renewal option for annual contract number FY02-081,

awarded to the low bidder, Nick Benavides, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $84,000.00, for providing monthly mowing and maintenance of the Zacate Creek areas from Meadow and Canal Streets to the mouth of the river.  This includes the collection of trash, debris, rubbish, and other floatable material along the creek.  The term of the contract was for one year with an option to extend for one additional year.  This vendor has been doing an excellent job with this contract and the recommendation is to exercise the renewal option.  Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

32.  Consideration to award contract number FY03-028 to the low bidder, Enterprise Rent-

       A-Car, Inc., Laredo, Texas, to provide rental car services for the Laredo Police 

       Department.  Funding is available in the Police Department budget.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

33.  Consideration to award contract FY 03-034 to fifty eight (58) qualified book vendors

for library materials collection development of books, databases and audio visual products for a two-year period effective March 25, 2003 through March 24, 2005.  Contracts for multiple book vendors for library materials collection development will enable to the library to assess the services of book distributors and acquire the best competitive prices and discounts on the market.  Multiple contracts for various genres insure high quality reading materials and services at the best prices for all book, audio-visual and electronic information purchases.  Funding is available in the Library budget.  Purchase of library materials is incumbent upon current and subsequent fiscal years approved annual budget.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

34.  Authorization for the City Manager to enter into an interlocal agreement between the

City of Laredo and the County of Starr for the purchase of a trash compactor by Starr County from the City of Laredo for $32,000.00.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

35.  Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll.  The amount to be

       adjusted for the month of February 2003, represents an increase of $17,252.32. 

       These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court

       orders.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

36.  Refund of property tax to the following taxpayers and companies:

 

a.  A refund in the amount of $1,975.01 payable to Only Deals, Inc.,

                 due to the account having a credit based on an estimation for 2002. The actual

     certified value for the year 2002 was much less and therefore so was the tax

      amount.  Account #800-15099-100.

b.  A refund in the amount of $774.11 payable to First American Real

                 Estate Tax Service due to a double payment.  Account was paid by First

                 American and Border Title.  Account #991-50004-110.

c.  A refund in the amount of $1,131.26 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

     Service due to a double payment for tax years 2001 & 2002. The taxes were paid

     by the property owner and the mortgage company. Account #989-00011-060.

d.  A refund in the amount of $687.79 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American Real

Estate Tax Service and Webb County Title. Account #909-00034-587.

e.  A refund in the amount of $755.00 payable to First American Real

    Estate Tax Service due to a double payment. The taxes were paid by First

    American twice.  Account #437-00692-061.

f.  A refund in the amount of $503.54 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American and Webb  

County Title. Account #968-00019-222.

g.  A refund in the amount of $648.95 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to a double payment.  Account was paid by Wells Fargo  and First  

American Real Estate Tax Service. Account #923-00037-730.

h.  A refund in the amount of $566.16 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to an over payment made by First American Real Estate Tax Service.  Account #909-00027-505.

i.  A refund in the amount of $839.30 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American Real  

Estate and Border Title. Account #969-30010-250.

j.  A refund in the amount of $796.68 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

    Service due to double payment. Account was paid by First American Real Estate 

    Tax Service and Neel Title Corporation. Account #969-30007-100.

k.  A refund in the amount of $548.69 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

Service due to an over payment made by First American Real Estate Tax Service.   

Account #969-00006-120.

l.  A refund in the amount of $866.86 payable to John L. & Gloria

                J. Benacci due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American Real

                Estate Tax Service and the Tax Payer. Account #923-00019-392.

m.  A refund in the amount of $1,017.49 payable to First American Real

                  Estate Tax Service due to a double payment. The taxes were paid by First

                  American Tax Service and International Bank of Commerce. Account #557-

                  01688-010.

n.  A refund in the amount of $626.18 payable to First American Real Estate Tax

     Service  due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American Real 

     Estate Tax Service and Union Planters Mortgage Company. Account

     #965-20006-037.

o.  A refund in the amount of $903.68 payable to First American Real Estate Service

     due to a double payment. Account was paid by First American Real Estate Tax

     Service and GMAC. Account #989-52002-040.

p.  A refund in the amount of $720.95 payable to First American Real Estate Tax 

Service due to a double payment. The taxes were paid by First American Real Estate Tax Service and GMAC. Account #989-00001-040.

q.  A refund in the amount of $695.92 payable to Raynaldo & Maria L. Esquivel due

     to a double payment. Account was paid by Transamerica Real Estate Tax Service

     and Neel Title Corp. Account #990-10006-090.

r.  A refund in the amount of $952.61 payable to Union Planters, c/o First American   

    Real Estate Tax Service due to a double payment. Account was paid by Neel Title

    and Union Planters Mortgage Company. Account #989-10002-280.

s.  A refund in the amount of $1541.53 payable to Lereta Corporation due to a 

    double payment. Account was paid by Border Abstract and Lereta Corporation. 

    Account #988-00002-020.

t.  A refund in the amount of $732.05 payable to Nancy Rodriguez due to a double  

    payment. Account was paid by Falcon National Bank and Neel Title Corporation.  

    Account #946-60001-100.

u.  A refund in the amount of $2,206.24 payable to Mercy Hospital of Laredo due to  

     a double payment. Account was paid by Border Title Company and

    Mercy Hospital. Account #925-70001-010.

v.  A refund in the amount of $550.20 payable to Edwin R. Martinez Mejia due to 

     double payment. Account was paid by the Property Owner and Washington  

     Mutual Mortgage Company. Account #969-10001-041.

w.  A refund in the amount of $630.72 payable to Transportes Quintanilla SA de CV   

      due to a double payment. Account was paid by Border Title and Quintanilla.  

     Account #984-00001-031.

x.  A refund in the amount of $1,212.90 payable to National City Mortgage c/o

Lereta Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National City  

 and Webb County Title. Account #325-00065-010.

y.  A refund in the amount of $808.91 payable to National City Mortgage c/o Lereta

Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National City and Border Title. Account #909-00035-615.

z.  A refund in the amount of $565.27 payable to National City Mortgage c/o Lereta

Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National City and Border Title. Account #938-20001-280.

aa.  A refund in the amount of $786.53 payable to National City Mortgage c/o

Lereta Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National City  

and Neel Title. Account #969-30011-230.

bb.  A refund in the amount of $1,003.68 payable to National City Mortgage c/o 

Lereta Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National City and the Owner. Account #985-50004-020.

cc.  A refund in the amount of $613.51 payable to National City Mortgage

                  c/o Lereta Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by National

      City and the Owner. Account #989-00011-050.

dd.  A refund in the amount of $609.54 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

       Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by Washington

       Mutual and Mortgage Investor. Account #909-20004-060.

ee.  A refund in the amount of $659.92 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

      Corporation due to a double payment by Washington Mutual.  Account

     #969-00006-430.

ff.  A refund in the amount of $726.69 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta  

      Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by Washington    

      Mutual and GMAC Mortgage. Account #985-60005-030.

gg.  A refund in the amount of $771.46 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

       Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by Washington

       Mutual and Neel Title. Account #986-00010-061.

hh.  A refund in the amount of $2,203.59 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

       Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by Washington

     Mutual and Border Title. Account #927-10002-380.

ii.  A refund in the amount of $698.95 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta   

     Corporation due to a double payment . Account was paid by Washington

     Mutual and Neel Title. Account #980-60002-250.

jj.  A refund in the amount of $736.27 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta   

     Corporation due to a double payment. Account was paid by Washington

     Mutual and Webb county Title. Account #983-40001-100.

kk.  A refund in the amount of $1,114.28 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

       Corporation due to a double payment by Washington Mutual. Account

       #988-10001-510.

ll.  A refund in the amount of $553.59 payable to Washington Mutual c/o Lereta

     Corporation due to a double payment by Washington Mutual. Account

     #989-00003-020.

mm.  A refund in the amount of $532.11 payable to Premier Housing, Inc. due to a

double payment. Account was paid by Premier Housing, Inc. and Webb County  Account #804-40098-005.

nn.  A refund in the amount of $1,374.06 payable to Neel Title Coporation due to a

double payment. Account was paid by Neel Title Corporation and Transamerica Real Estate Tax Service. Account #985-70001-220.

oo.  A refund in the amount of $629.90 payable to Robert H. Martin due to an over-   

       payment by Mr. Martin. Account #985-10010-120.

 

Motion to approve.

 

Moved:  Cm.  Agredano

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XIII.     STAFF REPORTS

     

37.  A.  Presentation on the Plan of Finance by Estrada-Hinojosa & Co., Financial

Consultants, on a proposed sale of various issues including a Personal Property Finance Contractual Obligation and Certificate of Obligation Bond Issues.

 

Noe Hinojosa, Plan of Finance of Estrada-Hinojosa & Co.  we have been working with the staff and the Capital improvement Plan what we bring to you tonight is 1st step in considering a bond sell on May 5th.  The financing being contemplated here is basically you will find in column b the uses for drainage and a new fire station.  That adds up to about 2 rolls at the bottom as to where these are self supportive.

 

Comb. Tx & Rev. C/O’s Series 2003

 

USES:

Drainage Improvements                       $1,900,000

Fire Station                                          $1,540,000

 

To be funded:                                      $3,440,000

 

Self-Supported

Tax Supported                                    $3,440,000

 

Comb.  Tax & Sewer Sys Rev.  C/O’s Series 2003

 

USES:

 

Sewer System Improvements               $3,450,000

Additional Improvements                          100,000

 

To be funded:                                      $3,550,000

 

Self-Supported:                                   $3,550,000

Tax Supported:                                    $3,550,000

 

PPF Contractual Obligations, Series 2003

 

USES:

Various Equipment Needs                   $2,733,850

 

To be funded:                                      $2,733,850

 

Self-Supported:                                   $2,733,850

Tax Supported:                                    $2,733,850

 

Tax Rate Impact

 

Existing Debt                                       230,258,062

Self-Supporting Debt                           (141,524,623)

Total New and Existing Debt                   88,733,440

 

Combination Tax & Revenue Certificates of Obligation, Series 2003

Public Property Finance Contractual Obligations

 

March 24, 2003          City Council adopts Plan of Finance.

March 31, 2003          Mail First Draft of the POS to working group.

April 3, 2003               Receive comments on first draft of the POS & Bond Doc.

April 7, 2003               Adopt Resolution authorizing the publication of the notice of intent to issue Certificates of Obligation.

April 13, 2003             Publish 1st Notice of Intent to issue Certificates.

April 10, 11, 2003       Site visit by Rating Agencies and Insurance Companies.

April 14, 2003             Receive comments on second draft of the POS & Bond Documents.

April 20, 2003             Publish 2nd Notice of Intent to Issue Certificates.

April 21, 2003             Print and distribute POS.

April 29, 2003             Receive Ratings and Qualifications and Premiums for Bond Insurance. 

May 1, 2003               Price the Obligations.

May 5, 2003               City Council Adopts ordinance to sell the Obligations.

May 8, 2003               Submit documents to Texas Attorney General.

May 26, 2003             Obtain Texas Attorney General’s Approval of the Bonds.

May 29, 2003             Closing.

 

                   B.  Presentation of the fiscal year 2001-2002 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report                   

                        (CAFR) prepared by the City of Laredo’s Financial Services Department and

                        audited by the independent audit firm of Garza, Martinez & Company.

 

Rosario Cabello, Financial Director, gave the following presentation on the 2001-2002 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report prepared by her staff:

 

                        City of Laredo Net Assets

 

                        Governmental Activities                        $167,216,075

                        Business Type Activities                        260,051,582

                        Total Net Assets for the City:

                                                                                    $427,267,657

 

                        City of Laredo Financial Strategy

           

                        Economy

                        Proactive Management

                        Able to reduce Expenses by $1.9 M in G. F.

 

                        City of Laredo Fund Balances

                        General Fund                15.3%              $11.8M

                        Debt Svc Fund 26.7%              5.5M

                        Bridge Fund                 15.0%              1.4M

                        Water Fund                  32.3%              4.5M

                        Sewer Fund                  68.0%              6.3M

                        Transit Fund                 64.1%              7.5M

                        N.P.D.E.S.                   38.0%              700K

                        Parking Meters 132.3%            1.0M

 

Jorge R. Martinez CPA and Angie Cantu and we have concluded our audit for financial statements for 2002 and we have issued three reports.  All are unqualified reports.  He discussed several reports opinion may millions of dollars in grant awards we go and test compliance with the city that the grants that the city has signed and make sure they have complied and the third basically we go in there and we make sure that the internal is sound and effective so the departments can bring data to the top to bring to city council. The three reports are unqualified. We had a we want to commend we have found that the staff is very responsive and we are appreciative. You have a wonderful staff. 

 

        C.  Presentation by consultant Frank Architects, Inc., on 95% complete plans for the

  Gateway to the Americas Bridge (Bridge I) access, export lot and parking lot

  modifications and authorization to bid the project.  The project also includes new   

  toll equipment, administration building, utilities, U.S. Customs outbound

  inspection station, ADA sidewalks, ramps and all other facilities, with possible

  action.

 

Rafael Garcia, Bridge Director,  back in 1998 Frank’s Architect’s was giving the assignment for the El Portal Riverfront feasibility study.  From that study came out the understanding that in fact the river front beautification el portal project consisted of three main project.  1 was the riverfront the extension of santa Ursula and the Bridge I modification.  What is important to understand we need to understand what we are going to have.  The cutting edge of technology for both pedestrians and non-commercial traffic.  No where in the country will this exist.  We went to New York to visit the New York Transit System and the subway and they process of 7 million a day with a smart card.  We will go up to 16 turn styles with vending machines and in fact hopefully get 100% pedestrian bridge.  There is a concern why so big why so large…historically Laredo has under built.  It will cost you twice as much you have to understand the complexity of what is going to be here.  We transfer money from the lane to the safe to the safe to the lane.    These are all the things we looked at with all departments of the city including GSA, Customs, INS to make sure that what we have to present to you is what we need with all the rules and regulations that we have to abide by.  Franks

 

Frank Rodnosky summarized the project…we were able to get the power point back ready for you.  Along with Viviane frank from frank architects we have been working on the projects feasibility study and a long with your staff and many department directors’ city manager and assistant city manager we have been busy for two years. 

 

This is an early slide of Laredo..you can see Laredo is critically important fromm it’s earliest findings on the bend of the river that is critically important from 1755 it allows us to historically from it’s first bridge 1889 has been a strong point a vital connection to our sister.  The bridge was in place until 1920 the second bridge built in 1920 it we are looking at the 1956 bridge system building which is currently there today.  There has been quiet there were 25,000 people crossing daily with an annual increase of 6%.  33,500 10,000 cross a day just on this bridge.  The year 2000 was the year that international IV went on line and it actually made some of this go away.  It allowed the city to look at this are in a different way.  When we begin this project was the beautification of the water front.  To focus on pedestrian and tourist. 

 

We want to provide a beautiful entrance and to generate public spaces to allow for market spaces and retail development.

 

Motion to authorize to go out for bids

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

Second:  Cm.  Amaya

For:     7                                 Against:  0                                            Abstain:

 

       D.  Discussion with possible action regarding the flooding issues at Indian Sunset

             Subdivision.

 

Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, I have an update that we received w/consultant on this issue this is the latest that we have whereby they are saying that have looked at the problem and they have analyzed it.  They have come up with alternatives.  One is to retaining wall in a drainage swell and then the option the information would be forwarded to us. That is the recommendation from their engineer. 

 

Motion to developer to accept or deny the action or have the developer have the de come to council a d do what he suggetsted to do in the first place.in the second meeting in April.

 

Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

Second:  Cm.  Ramirez

For:     7                                   Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

           

 

           

 

XIV.     EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive session at any time during this public meeting, if such is requested by the City Attorney or other legal counsel for the City, pursuant to his or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult privately with his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out of such item.

 

38.  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 

       City of Laredo International Airport 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 City of Laredo International Airport 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.

 

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

 

Motion to authorize the City Manager to acquire approximately 27.8 acres in Summer Wind Subdivision Unit II for $3,250,000 subject to deed restrictions for being resolved..

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

       Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

39.  Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section

551.071(1)(a) to discuss with the City attorney the pending case of Martin Villarreal, et al v. City of Laredo, et al, Cause no. L-03-11, in the US District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division [case pertaining to Los Obispos Affordable Housing Project]; and return to open session for possible action.

 

       Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section

551.071(1)(a) to discuss with the City attorney the pending case of Martin Villarreal, et al v. City of Laredo, et al, Cause no. L-03-11, in the US District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division [case pertaining to Los Obispos Affordable Housing Project]; and return to open session for possible action.

 

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

 

Motion to

 

Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

Second:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

XV.   ADJOURNMENT

 

      Motion to adjourn.                                                                                            TIME:  9:55

 

            Moved:  Cm.  J.  Valdez

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0