CITY OF
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
M2003-R-10
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum
present Mayor Elizabeth G.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Mayor led in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In attendance:
Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor
Alfredo Agredano, Mayor
Pro Tempore, District I
Hector Garcia, Council
Member, District II
John C. Galo, Council
Member, District III
Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV
Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V
Gene Belmares, Council
Member, District VI
Jose A.
Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary
Jaime Flores, City
Attorney
IV. MINUTES
None.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
None.
Invitations
Dr. Jose
Luis Gonzalez, extended an invitation to the Mayor and
Council for a celebration in
Recognitions
a. Recognition of Michelle Inocencio,
award of a 4 year scholarship to Texas A & M for her
athletic and academic
achievements. Ms. Inocencio is a member of Club Olympia funded by the City of
Mayor Flores presented a Seven Flags Certificate
of Recognition to Michelle Inocencio for her
outstanding achievements as a 2-time National Javelin Champion. The honor student from J. W. Nixon also qualified
in the try outs for a spot in the United States Track and Field Team and the
United States Pan American Games. She is
the first female from
Communiqués
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
thanked the citizens of
Cm. Garcia congratulated Housing Partners, a
housing corporation, as they celebrated their grand opening for the Clark
Crossing Apartments which is a 12.4 million dollar project. He noted that the complex has 160 units that
will assist low-income families. He also
took the time to wish United South High School Basketball players luck as they
will participate in quarter finals.
Cm. Galo thanked the Parks
and Recreation Department and the Police Department for their assistance with
the United States Tennis Association Clinic held at United High School North
and the Market Tennis Courts. Over 500
children participated in the annual event.
He also gave a comprehensive report on his trip to
Cm. Amaya thanked
individuals that were involved in the completion of the McPherson Widening
Project.
Cm. Belmares thanked
the Mayor for allowing him to represent the City at the Crime Stopper’s State Convention. The Crime Stoppers is a phenomenal program that
has 267 organizations throughout
Cm. J.
Valdez thanked the City of
Cm. Ramirez thanked the City of
a. Presentation of the 2002-2003
cooperative employees participating in the City of
Dan Migura, Administrative Service Director,
explained that each year the City budgets funds to provide a corporative
opportunity at the local high schools to participate in our work efforts. This year the City has 23 students that were
provided funding.
1. Lorena
P. Acosta Library
2. Jose
Aranda III City Manager’s Office United High School
3. Glenda
Arredondo PARD – Tarver
4. Joe
Butcher Health
5.
Leticia Canales PARD
– Cigarroa
6.
Jennifer Garibay PARD – Tarver
7. Leybi Garza Engineering
8. Miriam
Garza PARD –
9.
Valeria Gomez ASD –
Employee Health United High
School
10.
Gabriel Gomez PARD – Cigarroa
11.
Marcos Gonzalez PARD – DD Hachar
12. Ruby
Guerrero ASD – Training United
13. Alcide Jaramillo Police
United
14. Ena J. Lopez Tax
15. Delia
Miles PARD – DD Hachar
16.
17.
Valeria Rodriguez
18.
Claudia Rodriguez PARD –
Tarver
19.
Jessica Sanchez ASD –
Human Resources United
20.
Jessica J. Thomas PARD – Farias
21. Ana
L. Vasquez Secretary’s Office United
South High School
22.
Teresa Perez Bridge
23.
Rosario Velasquez
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND
COMMITTEES
None.
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 9, Block 351, Eastern Division,
located at 114 Lyon Street from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3
(Community Business District); providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning Commission
has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Garcia
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, on
behalf of the property owner, asked for delay for a month of this zone change.
Motion to close the public hearing and postpone for 30
days.
Moved: Cm.
Amaya
Second: Cm. J.
Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the City of
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Garcia
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Garcia
3.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 2.2882 acres, as further described by
metes and bounds on attached Exhibit “A,” located south of Don
Camillo Boulevard and west of Highway 83, from R-1A
(Single Family Reduced Area 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. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of the property
owner, spoke in favor of the zone change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Amaya
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Galo
4.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance
Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 5.02 acres, as further described by metes
and bounds on attached Exhibit “A,” located east of Highway 83 and northeast of
the American Towers Plat No. 2 from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to
M-1 (Light Manufacturing District); providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning Commission
has recommended denial of the proposed change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There
was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and postpone.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second: Cm.
J. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City
of
attached Exhibit “A,” located approximately at the 2600
block of Del Mar Boulevard,
from R-1 (Single Family Residential District) to B-3
(Community Business District);
providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm.
There
was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second: Cm.
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Belmares
Cm.
6. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
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
Ordinance Introduction: Cm.
J. Valdez
7. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 6.07 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds on attached Exhibit “A,” located east of
Highway 83 and north of Cielito Lindo
Boulevard, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial
District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended denial of the proposed B-4 and approval of a B-3 zone change.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, on
behalf of the Joe Moore family, spoke in favor of the zone change request.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce as a B-3.
Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second:
Cm. Galo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
8. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 4.6243 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds on 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 B-4 (Highway Commercial District);
providing for publication and effective date.
The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the
proposed B-4 and approval of a B-3 zone change.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk,
representing the property owners, asked to allow property to go as a B-3 as
recommended by staff.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Garcia
Second:
Cm. J. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm.
Garcia
9. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 23-3 and Section 23-5 of
Chapter 23 (Parks and Recreation) of the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Laredo to allow for rate changes in Public Swimming
Pool Admission Fees from $0.50 to $0.75 for children and from $0.75 to $1.25
for adults (ages 13 and older), and to provide for the addition of Section 23-6
for New Recreational Fields Facility Fees and Section 23-7 for the creation of
user fees for recreational equipment rentals; providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. J. Valdez
For: 8 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: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2002-2003
annual budget in the amount of $5,350.00 in
additional funds from the Texas Department of Health for the OPHP-Bioterrorism Preparedness Program of the City of Laredo
Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2002 through August 31,
2003.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. J. Valdez
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to accept a
grant from the Texas Book
Festival in the amount of $2,500.00 and amending the City of Laredo FY
2002-2003 annual budget in the amount of $2,500.00.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
Second:
Cm. J. Valdez
For: 8
Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
12. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing Aleskar
Villarreal, d/b/a
Villarreal Dumps and Backhoe Service, Inc. a
non-exclusive franchise, to construct, maintain and operate a commercial
container refuse gathering and disposing service in the City of Laredo, Texas,
and providing the terms, conditions, obligations, and limitations upon and
under which such franchise shall be exercised; providing indemnity to the City,
City retains authority to regulate rates except for rate increases resulting
from increased landfill fees which are passed on to the customer; providing for
increased service rates; providing for franchise payments; and providing for
severability.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
13. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to enter into
an agreement with the
Federal Bureau of Investigation in the amount of $20,609.00 and amending the FY
2002-2003 City of
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
14. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 2-3 of Article I of Chapter
2, Administration, of the Code of Ordinances
copies of public information therein set forth, the schedule of charges for
copies of public information therein set forth in Sections 111.61-111.71 of the
Texas Administrative Code containing the schedule of charges for producing
public information under the Public Information Act, Government Code, Chapter
552, Subchapter F.
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
15. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 19 Motor Vehicle and
Traffic, Article VIII, Stopping, Standing or
Parking, Section 19-361, controlled access parking lots and Section 19-362,
Controlled Access Parking Lot Rates and Hours of Operation, of the Code of
Ordinances, City of
Motion to open the
public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Garcia
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS
16.
A. Request by Council Member
Hector J. Garcia
1. Update on abandoned homes in District II.
Cm. Galo asked staff to
schedule a Municipal Housing Committee Meeting so they could address the
issue.
Cynthia Collazo, Assistant City Manager, advised
that staff would bring the item back at the next City Council Meeting with
different options for approval.
B.
Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1. Report by
intersection of Winfield and Alexander Estates.
Robert Peña, from the
Traffic Department, discussed the traffic study on the intersection of Winfield
and Alexander Estates. He noted that the
intersection does warrant a traffic light; however, because of the geometry it
is not feasible. The cost of the traffic
signal would be $100,000. He discussed
alternate routes that will be available in the future. The routes would alleviate vehicular
congestion.
Cm. Belmares asked
staff to research all options and return to Council. He also asked them to reduce the cost of
resolving the congestion for that area.
2. Discussion
with possible action on the creation of a dual fuel ordinance
providing new homeowners with a
true option for natural gas with a presentation by John Hickle. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Hector J.
Garcia and Council Member Jose A. Valdez).
John Hickle, from Proviron Natural Gas, discussed the following issues:
·
99%
of Natural Gas used in the
·
·
Every
year the DOE produces a report on the average cost of five residential energy
sources and Natural Gas continues to lead the way in affordable energy at about
$8.00 while the same electric energy cost $24.00
·
Natural
gas as well as other utilities are key components in the energy diversity of
any city including
·
When
companies are looking for new places to do business a viable utility infrastructure
plays an important role in the decision process
·
The
need for families to enjoy “affordable living” has also increased with so much
pressure on family incomes
·
Many
Laredoans are benefiting with Affordable Housing
thanks to the efforts of this Council
·
Affordable
living builds on this effort by using the right energy for the job from
air-conditioning to water heating some choices are better for the consumer
·
While
natural gas can and does play a key role in “energy diversity” for our
community and “affordable living” for our citizens we need to make this a
reality for more Laredoans
·
Helping
Laredoans get connected with affordability
Natural Gas costs less in 2003 than other Home
Energies, DOE says remains Best Home-Energy Value for
five of the last six years.
Washington, D. C. – Natural gas will cost less to use this year
than other major home energy sources, and the yellow Energyguide
labels on many new appliances will reflect this cost information starting May
9, according to the U. S. Department of
Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
“An average homeowner can save hundreds of
dollars each year on energy costs by using natural gas to heat their homes,
produce hoe water and dry their clothes,” said Tom Moskitis,
AGA director of external affairs. “For
example, an average household can save more than $200 per year in energy costs
by using a natural gas water heater instead of similar electric unit. That adds
up to big savings - - nearly $1,900 over the nine-year life of a water heater.”
Here is what one million British thermal units (Btus) of various residential energy sources will cost in
2003, according to DOE:
Natural Gas $8.16
No. 2 Heating Oil $8.80
Kerosene $10.59
Propane $13.25
Electricity $24.65
These estimates by the American Gas Association
are based on DOE’s 2003 representative annual costs
of energy, using equipment listed in the latest Gas Appliance Manufacturers
Association and Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute equipment
directories. The estimate is based on a
2,072 square-foot home located in a moderately cold temperature region, such as
St. Louis, with
updated energy efficiency features that reflect the 2000 “international Energy
Conservation Code.”
Motion to instruct staff to create an ordinance
which will require the builder to install duel option in all newly constructed
homes.
Moved: Cm. Belmares
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C.
Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion
with possible action regarding the implementation of safety measures
to reduce crime rate in
District VII to include maintenance by Union Pacific of railroad right-of-way,
area lighting, etc.
Cm. J.
Valdez said the recent increase in crime in District VII influenced him
to place the item on the agenda.
Agustin Dovalina, Chief of Police, noted that
staff has met with the Cm.
Cm.
Linda Barrera, tenant of Versailles Apartment, said that burglaries have increased in District
VII. She went on to say the problem is
not with the Police Department but is due to the lack of officers for the
district. She asked Council for more
officers.
Chief Dovalina said that staff has been talking
about breaking up the district to enhance the different departments. When the next class of cadets graduates, the
City will have an additional 12 officers available for targeting different
areas. There are 38 vacancies in the
department.
2. Discussion
with possible action regarding status of all park projects in District
VII.
Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director,
discussed the following projects in District VII:
Lafayette/Farias Spray
Park – draft of RFP and equipment is being worked on for a turn-key design
project. Release of RFP for both Lafayett and Farias should be
done within the next 30 days.
Father McNaboe Jr./Sr. Baseball Field – Property is in the process
of acquisition. A proposed donation from
property owners has been initiated with a “Special Warranty Deed” submitted by
the donor. Legal staff has reviewed and
recommended language that is to be included in the final draft
Father McNaboe Master
Plan Amendment – Discussion of other improvements not consistent with the
existing master plan at Father to the original design that reflects the
existing skate park south of the entrance and other proposed amenities along
this same flood plain need to be designed and reviewed by an architect/engineer
and IBWC. Inquiries with the architect
of record and City Engineer have taken place and an assessment and cost
estimate needs to be finalized for a possible RFQ. Father McNaboe
concrete stairs and
3. Discussion
with possible action to implement a master plan for the revitalization
of
Cm.
Cm.
D.
Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion
with possible action directing the City Manager to finalize
negotiations with
Cm. Ramirez said the negotiations with
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
17. Designating
as a one-way northbound and one-way southbound the east side IH-35
frontage road and the west side IH-35 frontage
road, respectively, between Loop 20 and Uniroyal
Drive, as requested by Texas Department of Transportation, providing for the
installation of appropriate signs to indicate one-way traffic in the designated
direction and providing for publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
18. Adding
new Article VIII of Chapter 28 to the Code of Ordinances, consisting of
Sections 28.151 to 28.157; providing for
definitions; requiring a license agreement in order to install an oil or gas
pipeline on public property; providing for an annual public property use fee
for location of same and the mode of computing said fee; providing for a one
time crossing fee for excavation and installation of a pipeline on a city
street and the mode of computation of same; providing for application of a
crossing fee for any alteration or removal of a pipeline; providing for
publication and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
19. Authorizing
the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey
fee simple title to the “Surface Only”, at its
adjusted market value of $24,223.00 of certain property being described as
0.2442 of an acre (10,636.20 sq. ft.), more or less, of a tract of land out of
Maryland Avenue between the South right-of-way line of Market Street and 103.75
feet north of the north right-of-way line of Cortez Street to Isabel R.
Martinez; provided that the City of Laredo retains a 21 foot wide Storm
Drainage and an AEP-CPL easement. Said
tract being situated in the Eastern Division, City of
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
20. Adding
new Chapter 34 to the Code of Ordinances, consisting of Sections 101-109;
providing for definitions; setting forth
prohibited financial interest of City officers and City employees; providing
for forfeiture if there is a conflict of interest as defined herein; providing
for voiding of any contract entered into in violation of this ordinance;
providing for relationship to Chapter 171 of the Local Government Code;
providing for publication; and providing for effective date.
Frank Garza, of Counsel, representative from the
law offices of Davidson and Troilo, gave a
presentation before Council on the drafting of this ordinance. The
comprehensive report was distributed to the Mayor, Council and City Manager;
however, was not given to the
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL
Motion to waive the
final readings of Ordinance # 2003-O-113, # 2003-O-115, # 2003-O-116, #
2003-O-117, # 2003-O-118, # 2003-O-119, # 2003-O-120 and # 2003-O-121.
Moved: Cm.
Galo
Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. 2003-O-113 Amending the City
of
Texas Department’s Health share of program
income and expenditures for the Maternal and Child Health Program of the City
of Laredo Health Department in the amount of $42,893.00 from ($27,107.00 to
$70,000.00) for the period beginning September 1, 2002 through August 31, 2003.
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-113.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-115 Amending the City of Laredo FY
2002-2003 annual budget to recognize
additional revenues from a grant amendment received from the
Federal
Aviation
Administration being grant offer No. 3-48-0136-33-02 increasing
the amount from $41,626.00 to $63,543.00 an increase of
$21,917.00 for
the purpose of reimbursing the City of
enforcement services provided by the Laredo Police
Department
immediately following the tragic event of
providing for an effective date. The grant does not require a local match.
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-115.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-116 Authorizing the issuance of the City
of Laredo, Texas General Obligation
Refunding
Bonds, Series 2003; approving an official statement;
authorizing the execution of a purchase agreement and an
escrow
agreement; making provisions for the security thereof;
establishing
procedures for selling and delivering the bonds; and
ordaining other
matters related to the subject.
Noe Hinojosa, from Estrada Hinojosa, gave the following
presentation:
$4,590,000
General Obligation
Refunding Bonds, Series 2003
Pricing Report
Financing Team
Issuer
4,590,000
General Obligation Refunding
Bond,
Series 2003
Financial Advisor Estrada
Hinojosa & Company, Inc.
Bond Counsel McCall,
Parkhurst & Horton L. L. P.
Underwriter A.
G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.
Underwriter’s Counsel Loeffler jonas
& Tuggey LLP
Paying
Agent JPMorgan Chase Bank
A chart indicating Bond Buyer Indices can be
viewed at the City
Secretary’s Office.
Rating
& Credit Enhancement
The City of Laredo, Texas General Obligation
Refunding Bonds, Series 2003 received a Aaa/AAA/AAA rating and is issued by virtue of the MBIA
guarantee.
|
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Insurance Companies |
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MBIA |
AMBAC |
FSA |
XLCA |
FGIC |
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------------------ |
|
Insurance
Premium |
22.00 bps |
27.00 bps |
30.00 bps |
30.00 bps |
30.70 bps |
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------------------ |
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|
|
|
|
|
|
MBIA |
AMBAC |
FSA |
XLCA |
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------------------ |
|
Dollar
Equivalent: |
$10,922.24 |
$13,404.57 |
$14,893.96 |
$14,893.96 |
$15,241.49 |
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------------------ |
|
Diff. from lowest: |
|
2,482.33 |
3,971.72 |
3,971.72 |
4,319.25 |
The
Obligation’s underlying credit rating is:
Moody’s S&P Fitch
A2 A A+
The Aaa/AAA/AAA
ratings represent the highest quality rating assigned by Moody’s, S&P and
Fitch for long term debt. This rating is
based upon MBIA’s guarantee and not the City’s
stand-alone financial condition.
Moody’s Rating
Issue
Combination Tax and Sewer System Revenue Certificates
of Obligation, Series 2003
Expected
Rating Description General
Obligation and Sewer System Revenue
Combination Tax Revenue
Certificates of Obligation, Series 2003
Expected
Rating Description General
Obligation and Bridge System Revenue
Public Property
Expected
Rating Description General
Obligation, Limited
General Obligation
Refunding Bonds, Series 2003
Expected
Rating Description General
Obligation
Moody’s Assigns A2
Rating to City of
Combination Tax and
Sewer System Revenue CO, Series 2003,
Combination Tax and
PPFCO, Series 2003
Rating Affects $157
Million in General Obligation Debt In Current Issues
Opinion
Moody’s Investors
Service has assigned an A2 rating to the City of
Certificates of
Obligation, Series 2003, $3,550,000 Combination Tax and
Revenue Certificates of
Obligation, Series 2003 $2,825,000
Public
Property
$4.575
million General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2003. At the
same time, Moody’s has
affirmed the A2 rating on the City’s $157.7
million in outstanding GO debt
including the current issues. All three
issues are secured by an ad valorem tax levied on all property in the city,
within the limits prescribed
by law. The Certificates, which will be
used
for drainage and facility
improvements, are additionally secured by
surplus revenues not to exceed
$1,000 of the City’s bridge system. The
Sewer Certificates are
secured by an additional pledge of the surplus
revenues of the sewer system and
will be used to make sewer system
improvements. The PPFCOs, which
mature in five years, will be sued to
purchase equipment. The
refunding will refund certain outstanding debt of
the City for a slight net
present value savings and will create capacity for a
future tax supported bond
issue to impact FYE 2005. The A2 rating
reflects the City’s growing and
diversifying tax base and management’s
ability to handle increasing
service demands and capital needs associated
with a rapidly growing
population. The rating also reflects the
City’s
manageable debt burden despite
ongoing debt requirement s and healthy
financial operations supported by
a diverse stream of revenues.
has grown significantly
with activities related to NAFTA.
The growth and
diversification of the city’s tax base along with the ties created by NAFTA
have increased the city’s resiliency to possible fluctuations in the economy of
Relatively high debt
levels reflect the city and areas’ rapid economic and population growth and the
funding of related capital needs at the city and overlapping county and school
districts. Direct debt is high but
manageable at 3.5% of full value and includes the sales tax revenue debt, which
is expected to be supported by the pledged revenue source. This level is likely to continue as
additional borrowing is further mitigated with growth in property values. The majority of overlapping debt belongs to
united
Fiscal years 2000 and
2001 each recorded an increase to the fund balance. The surpluses were the result of better than
expected revenues and less than budgeted expenditures indicating conservative
budgeting by City officials. The 2002
fund balance decreased to $11.7 million from $14.7 million in the previous year
due to some one-time capital expenditures.
Property tax revenues make up 32%of fiscal 2002 General Fund revenues,
with sales taxes comprising 18% of the same year’s revenues. Sales tax revenue are
slightly ahead of the 5% growth budgeted for the current fiscal year. Bridge revenues are slightly below budget but
5.5% above this same time last year. The
city has adopted a 15% general fund reserve policy, although it is not expected
to draw to this level. Moody’s believes
that management has institutionalized conservation practices that will continue
to guide fiscal actions in the future and allow the city to implement the necessary
programs and services to meet the needs of a growing population while
maintaining a fund balance consistent with current levels.
KEY STATISTICS:
Population estimate
(2002): 200,000
Full valuation
(FY2003): $5.5 billion
Direct debt burden with
sales tax revenue debt: 3.5%
Direct debt burden: 3.4%
Overall debt burden,
with IFA and EDA funding: 6.4%
Property taxes as % of
revenue, FY02: 32%
Sales taxes as % of
revenues, FY02: 18%
2001 Undesignated
General Fund balance: $13.5 million
2002 Undesignated
General Fund balance: $10.9 million
City Unemployment
(January 2003): 7.9%
FITCH RATING
Outlook
The A+ rating reflects
Rating Considerations
With its border location
and extensive transportation network, the
Although aided by
substantial enterprise fund support the city’s overall debt burden is above
average at $2,482 per capita and 9.0% of taxable assessed valuation (TAV):
however, substantial state support for local school district debt significantly
reduces the effective debt burden to $1,414 per capita and 5.1% of TAV. General obligation (GO) debt principal
amortization is above average at 77% in 10 years and debt service carrying
charges, totaling 21% in fiscal 2002, have been declining as a percentage of
general and debt service fund expenditures.
The city’s 2002-2006 capital improvement plan (CIP) totals $440 million
but only includes the GO debt financing for about 16% (69.4 million) of the total,
with the remainder comprising state and federal grants. The city projects it can issue %59.7 million
in GO debt through fiscal 2009 with no tax rate impact, assuming conservation
rates of TAV growth.
The Capital Improvement Plan
does not include a possible $20 million project for securing a secondary water
source that may require an eight-mile pipeline and a new water treatment plant.
As a result of the
burgeoning trade activity with
Despite operating
pressures associated with steady growth, recent financial performance has been
positive, marked by strong year-end general fund balances and annual operating
surpluses in four of the past five years.
A $2.0 million operating deficit was recorded in fiscal 2002 due to $1.5
million in pay-as-you-go funding for completion of the city’s fire and law
enforcement training facility, plus a $1.1 million budget shortfall in budgeted
revenues from the city’s bridge system due to heightened security after the
events of Sept. 11,
2001. Fiscal 2902 still ended
with an $11.8 million total fund balance, totaling only 15.3% fund balance
policy. Including transfers in, the
city’s diverse fiscal 2002 general fund revenue streams include property taxes
(26.6%), charges for services (26.4%), and sales taxes (20.8%). The fiscal 2003 budget is balanced and
includes a five-cent increase to the city’s maintenance and operations tax
rate, which has been allocated for the growing public safety needs of
Located in the ninth
fastest growing metropolitan statistical area (MSA) in country in the 2000
census,
Strengths
·
Favorable
financial position and solid reserve levels.
·
Strong,
growing international trade activity due to proximity to
·
Recent
economic stability and growth, despite economic fluctuations in
Risks
·
Low
wealth levels and high but declining unemployment rates.
·
Ongoing
operating and capital pressures associated with growth.
·
Susceptible
to economic cycles in
accelerated due to diversified revenue streams.
·
High
overall debt burden, although mitigated by
substantial state support of overlapping school districts.
Debt
Spurred by continuing rapid population growth,
the city has been a frequent participant in the debt market. Due to solid AV growth and substantial
enterprise system support, the city’s direct debt burden remains modest at $495
per capita and 1.8% of TAV. Included in
this measure is $39.3 million of sales tax bonds. Nine different enterprise and special revenue
funds support $96.9 million, or 51.2% of outstanding GO debt. Inclusion of $401.4 million of overlapping
debt (74.2% of which is attributable to local school districts) increases debt
ratios to well above average levels of $2,485 per capita and 9.0% of TAV. However, due to very low school district
property wealth levels, local districts receive substantial state debt service
support totaling up to 85.7 of outstanding debt. Therefore, the effective overall debt burden
is significantly reduced and remains manageable at $1,414 per capita and 5.1%
of TAV. In addition, the city maintains
an above-average principal amortization schedule, retiring 49% in five years
and 77% in 10 years. Due to this rapid
amortization, debt service as a percentage of expenditures is above average at
21.2% in fiscal 2002 but has declined steadily from a high of 27.0% in fiscal
1995.
The city’s fiscal years 2002-2006 CIP totals
$440.0 million, $69.4 million (16.0%) of which will comprise long-term
debt. Including the current offerings,
the city projects it can issue up to $59.7 million through fiscal 2009, with no
debt service tax rate impact. In fact,
the debt service tax rate is projected to decline modestly even number the
assumption of conservation rates of TAV growth.
The CIP includes major urban revitalization efforts of the downtown
located between bridges I and II and reclamation of the riverbank into a nature
preserve. Additional future debt may
also be issued as part of the city’s efforts to develop a secondary groundwater
source. Preliminary estimates projected
total project costs of $40 million - $60 million; however, more recent
estimates are much less, at around $20 million, due to the location of a
groundwater source much closer to the city.
It is anticipated this project will be financed through combination of
water rate increases and long-term debt.
Finances
Although the city’s financial reserves remain
adequate, an unanticipated $2.9 million operating deficit was recorded in
fiscal 2002 due to $1.5 million in pay as you go funding for completion of the
city’s fire and law enforcement training facility. The city implemented some reductions to
offset the capital outlay expenditure but heightened security after the events
of Sept. 1, 2001 caused a $1.1 million
shortfall in budgeted revenues from the city’s bridge system. Fiscal 2002 ended up with an $11.8 million
shortfall in budgeted revenues from the city’s bridge system. Fiscal 2002 ended up with $11.8 million total
fund balance, totaling 15.3% of expenditures only and in compliance with the
city’s 15% fund balance policy. However,
to account for the use of all general fund resources, Fitch’s calculation of
the fund balance includes transfers out (totaling $8.44 million in fiscal 2002)
lowering the total fund balance to 13.8% in fiscal 2002. Including transfers in, the city’s diverse
fiscal 2002 general fund revenue streams include property taxes (26.6%),
charges for services (26.4%), and sales taxes (20.8%) Charges for services comprise mostly
international toll bridge receipts, totaling $15.7 million in fiscal 2002.
The approval fiscal 2003 budget is balanced and
includes general fund revenues and expenditures of $87.3 million, representing
increases of 6.1% and 2.5%, respectively, from actual fiscal 2002 levels. A five-cent increase to the maintenance and
operations tax rate was adopted for the purpose of funding additional public
safety needs of the city’s growing population.
The budget also includes the transfer of 30 police officers from a
special police fund, whose grant has expired, to the general fund. The budget provides a 2.8% cost of living
adjustment for employees plus merit increase program. The budge also project 5% growth in sales tax
receipts, which, for the first half of fiscal 2003, are up 3.3% over the same
period last year and are expected to meet budgeted targets due to the recent
completion of large retail operations.
Although typical property tax collection rates are 95% or higher, the
city conservatively budgets collection at 94%.
Economy
Its border location and extensive transportation
network have made the area a major gateway to
The area economy also benefits from various maquiladoras, or twin-plant programs. Under these programs, primary manufacturing
facilities are located in
Per capita personal income in
Unemployment rates have fallen significantly in
recent years, although they remain well above state and national averages. The city unemployment rate was not
significantly affected by the recession through midyear 2002 but has now
increased modestly to 7.9% in January 2003.
Wholesale and retail trade is the largest
employment sector, with 26.0% of MSA jobs, followed by government at 23.3% and
services at 21.8%. Transportation and
public utilities, the MSA’s fourth largest employment
sector at 17.5% of all area jobs, is one of the fastest growing sectors, a
result of maquiladora development and growth in the MSA’s transportation activity.
Sources and Uses of Funds
$4,590,000
General Obligation Refunding Bonds
Series 2003
Sources
and Uses of Funds
Sources
Par Amount $4,590,000.00
Accrued Interest 15,186.67
Net Premium 81,041.40
Cash Contribution 87,257.68
Total Sources: $4,773,485.75
Uses
Deposit to Escrow $4,629,840.53
Accrued Interest 15,186.67
Cost of Issuance, Insurance
And Underwriter’s Discount 128,456.55
Total
Uses:
$4,773,485.75
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-116.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-117 Accepting a grant awarded by the
Office of the National Drug Control
Policy
(ONDCP) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) in the
amount of $688,313.00 at no cost to the City; and amending
the City of
Laredo
FY 2003 Financial Task Force Budget in the amount of
$83,484.00
to fund the Laredo Financial Disruption Task Force and
amend the Special Police Budget in the amount of $5,040.00
to fund the
used to pay personnel salaries, travel and operational
expenses beginning
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-117.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-118 Amending Article
XII, Chapter 19, Division 4, Section 19-601 of the Code
of Ordinances; to (1) increase monthly contract parking rate
for El Metro
deposit from $10.00 to $25.00, (3) to increase the
replacement charge for
damaged key from $10.00 to $25.00; and (4) to reduce the
advanced
payment discount from $80.00 to $50.00 for a lump sum annual
payment
of $550.00, and providing for effective date and
publication.
Motion to adopt Ordinance
# 2003-O-118.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-119 Setting a daily rental rate for the El
Metro Park & Ride Facility located at
4600
Daugherty for $250.00 for private entities and $180.00 for non-profit
organizations; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-119.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-120 Providing for
fare increases for the fixed route transit service as follows:
from $.75 to $1.00 for adults and student fare from $.35 to
$.50 providing
for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-120.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2003-O-121 Authorizing the City Manager to
execute a lease with Nextel WIP lease
Corporation,
d/b/a Nextel Partners, for approximately 559 square feet
located at
being more fully described in Exhibit “A” of lease agreement
for the
construction and operation of its communications equipment
facility.
Term
of the lease is fifty-two (52) months commencing
ending
(5) years. Annual base
rent shall be $4,200.00 each year during the term
of the lease and will be adjusted by four percent (4%) on
each anniversary
of the commencement
date, providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt
Ordinance # 2003-O-121.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm.
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
22. 2003-R-013 Amending the
composition of the Metro Government Committee to
include members from Laredo Independent School
District, United Independent School District, Laredo Community College, Texas
A&M International University, and the County of Webb for the purpose of
improving the lines of communication between local authorities on issues
affecting the community; and adopting the Metro Government Committee charge as
described in the attached document.
Motion to approve
Resolution # 2003-R-013.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. 2003-R-054 Authorizing the
City Manager to execute a contract with Dr. Dennis
Cantu to remain as
Medical Director/Supervisor for the Laredo Fire Department Emergency Medical
Services Division for pre-hospital care of the City of
Motion to approve
Resolution # 2003-R-054.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. 2003-R-055 Accepting the
donation of the “Surface Only” of a 0.1546 of an acre, more
or less, parcel of land, and
a 1.0875 acre, more or less, parcel of land, as a Sanitary Sewer Easement, from
Tract I- Being a tract of land containing
0.01546 acres, more or less, situated in Porcion 31,
Abstract 3116, Jose Trevino, Original Grantee,
Tract II- Being a tract of land containing
1.0875 acres, more or less, situated in Porcion 31,
Abstract 3116, Jose Trevino, Original Grantee,
Motion
to approve Resolution # 2003-R-055.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
25. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
professional services contract with
Structural Engineering Associates, Inc. (SEA),
in the amount of $49,000.00 for engineering services to provide feasibility
studies for a bridge ramp from Santa Ursula to the former import lot parallel
and adjacent to the Rio Grande. Funding
is available in the 2002 CO Issue.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Approval
of a contract with Miller & Van Eaton, P.L.L.C., to provide legal services
to
the City of Laredo in connection with advice
regarding telecommunications regulation, procurement, cable television
regulation and deployment on international cross border communication
issues. The contract term for this
engagement is
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Consideration
to rescind the contract awarded on
America, Lincoln, NB, in the amount of
$15,482.00 for the purchase of a studio camera and authorizing the purchase of
this same camera from the second bidder, Visual Interactive, Houston, TX, in
the amount of $16,204.00. Video Service
of America was unable to furnish the camera as specified. Funding is available in the Public Access
Channel Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Consideration
to authorize the purchase of one (1) dump truck for cemetery operations
through the Houston Galveston
Area Council of Governments (HGAC) Cooperative Purchasing Program, in the total
amount of $46,393.00. Delivery is
expected within ninety to one hundred twenty days. Funding is available in the 2002 PPFCO bond budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. 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, motorcycle, and lawn
maintenance: Rush Truck Center of
Laredo, Texas (FY 02-078) in the estimated amount of $50,000.00; Industrial
Disposal Supply, San Antonio, Texas, (FY02-080) in the estimated amount of
$25,000.00; Corpus Christi, Texas (FY02-079) in the estimated amount of
$25,000.00; and RPM Parts & Small Engine, Laredo, Texas (FY02-076) in the
estimated amount of $5,000.00. All parts
will be purchased on an as needed basis.
The contract vendor for motorcycle parts, Corpus Christi
Harley-Davidson, recently opened a store in
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Mayor Pro Tempore Agredano
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration
to award annual supply contracts (FY03-075) to the low bidders,
Arguindegui Oil Company, Laredo,
Texas, in the estimated amount of $20,025.00, Lone Star Lubricants, Laredo,
Texas, in the estimated amount of $14,700.00, Leyendecker
Oil, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount $5,325.60, and Oil Patch
Petroleum Company, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount $2,850.00 for the
purchase of lubricants for the Fleet Maintenance Division. The bid pricing will be firm for a one-year
period and all items will be purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Consideration
to award a four-year copier rental contract (FY03-018) to Office
Communication Systems
(OCS),
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration
to award contract number FY03-057 to the sole bidder, Landfill Service
Corporation,
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Awarding
a construction contract to the lowest bidder Price Construction, Ltd., Big
Springs,
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Amending
the Tax Abatement Agreement between the City of
Valley Stores, Limited,
a/k/a Laredo Lacks, Limited, by making minor modifications with all substantive
terms and conditions remaining unchanged.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Approval
of monthly adjustments to the tax roll.
The amount to be adjusted for the
month of April 2003,
represents an increase of $9,772.22.
These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and
by court orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Refund
of property tax to the following taxpayers and companies:
a. A refund in the amount of $2,827.75 payable to
Laredo Cargo, Inc. due to an
over payment by Laredo Cargo, Inc. on account
#942-80008-050.
b. A refund in the amount of $1,545.44 payable to Killam Industrial Development
Partnership Ltd., due to
an over payment by Neel Title Corporation. Account
#972-92015-080.
c. A refund in the amount of $1,750.49 payable to Killam Industrial Development
Partnership Ltd., due to
an over payment by Killam Industrial. Gaeli
Enterprise had previously paid the tax.
Account #972-92015-050.
d. A refund in the amount of $2,429.96 payable to Whataburger of Alice, Inc. due
to a double payment.
Account #922-20001-030.
e. A refund in the amount of $1,956.11 payable to Killam & Hurd c/o LB Walker
and Associates due to a
Webb County Appraisal District change of value certified by the Appraisal
Review Board. Clerical Error 25.25. Supp 8 Cause
#2002-8282. Account #801-11098-100.
f. A refund in the amount of $517.31 payable to Wang
Ping Wen & Chen Hui Chen
due to a Webb County
Appraisal District change of value certified by the Appraisal Review Board. Clerical Error 25.25 (Correction on Improvements). Supp 8, Cause #2002-4670.
Account #985-60005-150.
g. A refund in the amount of $1,811.66 payable to Vaquillas Development, Ltd., c/o
h. A refund in the amount of $4,021.35 payable to
Rudolf Hess due to a Webb
County Appraisal District change of value
certified by the Appraisal Review Board. Double assessed property. Supp. 9,
Cause #2002,5428,5427.
Account #924-01008-100.
i. A refund in the amount of $678.08 payable to
First Nationwide Mortgage due to a
double payment.
Account #970-10009-030.
j. A refund in the amount of $564.58 payable to Ana
I. Jones Due to a double
payment . The taxes were paid by the tax payer and by
Wells Fargo. Account #985-40002-120.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORTS
37. A. Status
report by Rick Johnson, Director of Operations for United Water
regarding
privatized water and wastewater operations.
Rick Johnson, Director of Operations for United
Water, gave the following report:
Laredo/UW Partnership Operational review
Monthly Fee
Employee Issues
Contract Deliverables.
Monthly Fee
United Water has billed a fixed monthly fee with
incremental amounts for parts and materials related to street recycling in
March and April.
Transition of Employee
All employees were offered employment and
transitioned employees received and equal to or better than salary and benefits
package:
Employee Transition Statistics
Employees pre-partnership (Sept. 2003) 189
Employee offered Employment 189
Employees that accepted Employment 188
Employees as of April 2003 182
Highlights of the improved benefits include:
More medical plan options – “Mercy Health is
using the United Water plan as a model for other companies:
Better life insurance – increased plan value and
dependent coverage
Six-months of short-term disability, long-term
disability and an employee assistance program (ESP)
Investment in the Employee
Training Statistics
|
Training Statistics |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oct. |
Nov. |
Dec. |
Jan. |
Feb. |
March |
Total |
|
Employee
Safety Training, man hours |
1,128 |
640 |
79 |
291 |
368 |
209 |
2,715 |
|
Technical
Training, man hours |
871 |
528 |
260 |
85 |
57 |
17 |
1,848 |
|
Total |
1,999 |
1,168 |
339 |
376 |
455 |
226 |
4,563 |
To date, 2.5% of all employee hours
worked have been spent in formal training.
A copy of the Organizational
Structure is on file at the
United Water has invested over 25,000 hours of
off-site resources in the transition and technical support.
Capital Investment Update
United Water has encumbered $240,000 of the
proposed investments.
Contract Delivery
requirements
|
Required |
Action |
Status |
|
Contract start |
Transition of IPP
administration |
Complete |
|
Contract start |
Transition of Property |
Complete |
|
30 |
Safety of Property |
|
|
60 |
Emergency Plan |
|
|
60 |
Public Relations &
Community Outreach |
|
|
90 |
Customer Service
Manual |
|
|
90 |
Employee performance
review |
|
|
90 |
Exit Transition Plan |
|
|
90 |
CMMS installed |
|
|
120 |
Draft O & M Manual |
|
|
120 |
Draft SOPs |
|
|
180 |
Employee training
Program |
|
|
180 |
CMMS substantially
operational |
|
|
180 |
Collection Program
plan |
|
|
180 |
Complete Capital
Improvement Plan |
|
|
365 |
CMMS fully operational
and integrated |
|
|
365 |
|
|
Mr. Johnson answered several questions that the
Councilmember had for him. They
discussed several problems that are consistent with the same constituents. He said he would have an answer for them the
next time. United Water is working work
to provide
B. Staff report regarding designation of drug
and weapon free zones.
Chief Dovalina advised that over a year ago the
Police Department was tasked with developing recommendations to make the parks
and schools safer. We formed a Task Force
composed of police officers to curtail the amount of vandalism. Later, a Task Force including the Planning
Department, Legal Department, City Manager’s Office, and the Engineering Department,
worked together to create a viable solution.
Our goal was to enhance
punishment for arrests in the areas for parks and schools. The
C. Providing
recommendation regarding the recent wage study for Pay Grades R22
through R25, with possible action.
Motion to adopt the
recommendations regarding the recent wage study for Pay Grades R22 through R25
as stated by Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director to be effective
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 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.
XV. RECESS AS THE
Motion
to recess as the Laredo City Council and Convene as the Laredo Mass Transit
Board.
Moved:
Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Consideration
to accept from the Island Transit System of the City of Galveston, Texas,
one 45’ 1992 Flexible CNG
coach at no cost to the City of
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. RECESS AS THE
Motion to adjourn as the
Laredo Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second:
Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVII. ADJOURNMENT
CITY
OF
CITY
COUNCIL MEETING
M2003-S-07
SUPPLEMENTAL
AGENDA
I. EXECUTIVE
SESSION
The City Council hereby reserves the right to go
into executive session at any time during this public meeting, if such is
requested by the City Attorney or other legal counsel for the City, pursuant to
his or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult
privately with his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter
arising out of such item.
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Galo
Second: Cm. Amaya
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I, Gustavo
Guevara, Jr.,
__________________________________
Gustavo Guevara, Jr.
City Secretary