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CITY OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2004-R-01 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS I. CALL TO ORDER With
a quorum present, Mayor Elizabeth G. II. PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE Mayor
Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance. III. ROLL CALL In
attendance: Elizabeth G. Flores, Mayor Alfredo
Agredano, Council
Member, District I Hector
Garcia, Council
Member, District II John
C. Galo, Mayor
Pro Tempore, 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., Anthony
McGettrick, IV. MINUTES Approval of
the minutes of Motion to
approve the minutes. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 V. COMMUNICATIONS
AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements None. Invitations a. Invitation by the City of Nick Reyna,
Director of Convention and Visitors Bureau, offered a formal invitation to
the Mayor, Council Members, and the community to the 2nd Annual
Laredo International Festival of b. Invitation to the Tex-21 Reception and Quarterly
Meeting on Thursday and Friday Rene
Gonzalez, Director of State, Federal, and International Affairs for the City
of
Recognitions
a. Recognition of the nominees for the 2004
Women Hall of Fame. The following
women will be
inducted on Mayor
Flores and City Council presented a Seven Flags Certificate to each of the
six recipients of the 2004 Women Hall of Fame in the fields of Health, Civic
Volunteer, Law Enforcement, Professional, Education, and Arts. b. Recognition of the poster contest winners
of the 2004 Women Hall of Fame, Aileen Terrazas-Overall
Winner, Ana Martinez-Division Winner, Eugenio Villarreal-Division Winner. Mayor
Flores and the City Council recognized the poster contest winners: Ana c. Recognition of the 2003 Retirees of the Fire District District Captain Ramon Lopez for 28 years of
service; Jorge Javier Lopez 28 years for years of
service; Roberto Mancha 27 for years of service; Santiago Cavazos for 20 years of
service; Not present: Ramiro Garza for 20 years of service. Faustino Cordova for 24 years of
service; Raul Gonzalez, Jr. for 21 years of
service; and Ruben Venegas for 30 years of service. d. Recognition of the Health Department’s
Vital Statistics Registration staff for being awarded the
Exemplary 5 Star Vital Registration and Excellence Award from the Texas
Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics. Mayor
Flores and City Council recognized Dr.
Gonzalez, Health Director, and staff for being awarded the Exemplary 5
Star Vital Registration and Excellence Award from the Texas Department of
Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics. e. Recognition of selection as December 2003 Employee of
the Month. Mayor
Flores and City Council publicly recognized f. Recognition of Felix Garcia, of the Bridge
Department, on his selection as 2003 City of Mayor
Flores and City Council recognized Felix Garcia for his selection as the 2003
City of
Communiqués Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo said he hoped that everyone had a nice holiday. He asked Code Enforcement and other City
departments to focus on cleaning the City of Cm. Agredano wished
everyone a Happy New Year. He informed
the public of several functions in District I to be held in the month of
January including a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Cm. Garcia wished the Mayor a Happy belated
Birthday. He mentioned the ground breaking
ceremony for the Fire Sub-Station on 359 and the Cm. Amaya said he is
looking forward to serving the constituents of District IV for the year of 2004. He added that he will strive for the
betterment of all the citizens of Cm. Cm. Belmares wished
everyone a Happy New Year. He said he
was committed in continuing improving District VI through innovative
programs, cost effective programs, and unity among Council Members. He thanked the Mayor and fellow Council
Members for their support throughout the previous year. Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr. said that several projects that have been initiated in
previous years are coming to a close.
He said District VII will be having several ribbon cuttings in the
next few months. He mentioned that he
would be working for recreation centers, splash parks, and an elderly center. He went on to say that he would like to let
the public know that the Council is there to help and serve. He encouraged the community to contact
their Council Member with any concerns.
Cm. Ramirez thanked everyone for the work they
have done in District VIII and throughout the City of There was a
moment of silence was acknowledged for families that lost loved ones during
the holiday season. Mayor
Flores read the following speech: “After serving you as your Mayor for 11
months in 1998, I said that in January, 1999 and 1998 had been a banner year
for the City of We have not forgotten our responsibilities
in all our neighborhoods and for all our families. Cm.
E. Valdez worked with Council
and City staff to upgrade and widen major arteries, such as The street recycling cost this year was
almost $900,000 thousand dollars. Over
860 streets were recycled using a method that prolongs the life of worn
streets. We built many sidewalks at
the request of Council and helped Our City staff and Council members all
worry about police protection for all the citizens of The Fire Training and Cm.
Ramirez often says that the Our bridges have kept up with the traffic
and bridge employees have helped the needy children of As you know, we celebrated the opening of
a new Municipal Court at 4610 Maher; opened the year with a first and great
Festival of Shakira, Sesame Street Live,
Monster Trucks, rodeos, and hockey were all successful this past year. But what sticks our in my memory and will
remain there for all my life are the first high school graduates in their entire
splendor. Thanks to each high school
and their administration and board members for making each one so
special. Not having to worry about
inclement weather was great for parents, planners, and graduates. And it ain’t
over. More entertainment, more
graduations, and more award winning hockey games are yet to come. This summer, as you all know, we have a New
Law in El Metro has added more busses, more lifts,
and better service while protecting the environment. The busses are very clean and they run CNG.
There was a bus donated because the City of As we prepare for Miss Business is good. But we also worry about our families. We know that every business hires more
people. And as businesses compete for
the workforce, there will be better pay.
Interest rates and more jobs coupled with the city’s down payment
assistance program helped out many Our Health Department helped more people
and have prepared for aggressive prevention programs for 2002. Rabies, We saw a hospital sell out, a new one being
built, huge investments in our community that made our planning departments
and our engineering departments work in high gear. We saw our Environmental Department touch
every facet of our development and our daily work. We saw the value of our We wish you all a very happy and healthy
New Year, and a promise to keep on working for you. Viva 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 authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a mechanic
shop on Lots 11 & 12, Block 448, Eastern Division, located at 118 &
120 East San Carlos Street; providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning
Commission has recommended approval of the proposed Conditional Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Margarito Benavides
and Elsa Gonzalez appeared before the Council to request approval of a
Conditional Use Permit for a mechanic shop.
Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce with the following conditions: 1. Hours of operation shall be limited to
those between Monday thru Saturday to 2. At least ten (10) percent of the lot area
shall be devoted to landscaping. All
property shall be
kept in an attractive fashion with landscaping properly maintained. All trash, garbage and all other waste
shall be kept in sanitary containers, which at all times must be concealed
from public view. 3.
The entire lot shall be paved except for the area landscaped. 4.
Seventy-five (75) percent of the buildings shall be composed of
masonry, glass, or brick. Moved: Cm. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. 2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 2.66 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located approximately at the 3900 block of Bob Bullock
Loop, from R-3 (Mixed Residential 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.
J. Valdez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. 3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lots 1 and 2, Unit 1, El Rancho Subdivision, located at
4120 Loop 20, 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.
J. Valdez For: 8 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm.
Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Garcia 4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the amendment of a Special Use Permit for
a mini-storage warehouse, on Lot 1, Block 1, Lago
Del Mar Subdivision, Unit 11, located at 7611 Bartlett Avenue; providing for
publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed
Special Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 8 Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce as a Special Use Permit; however,
Council asked for the deletion of # 8 of imposed conditions recommended by
staff. Moved: Cm. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. 5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Alberto
Garcia, property owner, asked to expand his business for used car sales. Laura
Garcia, petitioner’s wife, stated that they want to extend the business for
car sales. Motion to
close the public hearing, postpone and take it back to Planning and Zoning
for the sole use as a used car business. Moved: Cm.
Ramirez Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 6. 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: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Blas Martinez, representing
Victor De Anda, requested the zone change to B-3
use as a used car lot. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce as B-3. Moved: Cm.
Garcia Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Garcia 7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 2, Block 1, Hilltop Subdivision, Phase I, located at
420 Hilltop Road, 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: Mayor Pro Tempore 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. Belmares Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Belmares 8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing the amendment of a Conditional Use Permit for a meat market/supermarket on Lot 2 and
the South 1/3 or 23.14’ of Lot 4, Block 1056, Western Division, located 4201
Flores Avenue; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed Conditional Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore 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.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez 9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a sign on Lot 5A, Block
849, Eastern Division, located at 1520 East San Pedro Street; providing for
publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed
Conditional Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Francisco
Rodriguez and Jonathan Ruiz asked for approval of a Conditional Use Permit in
order to erect a sign 30 feet tall to advertise a minor emergency
clinic. Motion to
close the public hearing and override Planning and Zoning based on the
conditions proposed. Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Motion to remove
the site plan for the locations and allow for a multi-tenant complex sign of
300 sq. feet. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Amaya 10. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. 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 Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Garcia 11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 2.00 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located west of South Lucy Avenue and south of Cassata
Lane, 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 denial of the proposed zone change. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Juan
Salinas, property owner, spoke in favor of zone change to R-1A. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce and override Planning and Zoning. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Agredano 12. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 219.26 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located west of Mines Road and south of Bob Bullock
Loop, from R-1 (Single Family Residential District), and M-1 (Light Manufacturing
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: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Paul
Zuniga, on behalf of Faskin, Ltd. , spoke in favor
of the zone change. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm.
J. Valdez Second: Cm.
Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez 13. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 8.89 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located west of Mines Road and south of Bob Bullock
Loop, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing 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: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
Garcia 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. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez 14. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 41.25 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located west of Mines Road and south of Bob Bullock
Loop, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing 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: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
Garcia 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.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez 15. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a second single family
residential dwelling on Lot 1 and the west ½ of Lot 2, Block 1158, Eastern
Division, located at 2001 Piedra China Street;
providing for publication and effective date.
The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the
proposed Conditional Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm.
Garcia Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo 16. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for the outdoor storage of
heavy equipment on Lot 1G, Block 1, Jacaman Ranch, Unit 1, located at 6320 Krone Lane; providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning Commission
has recommended approval of the proposed Conditional Use Permit. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Fernando Chavarria, Jr., spoke in favor of a Conditional Use
Permit approval. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. 17. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing a Planned Unit Development Specific Use Overlay
District on Lot 1A, Block 1, Pan American Mobile Home Park, located
approximately at 4502 Game Creek Road; providing for publication and
effective date. The Planning and
Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed Planned Unit
Development Specific Use Overlay District. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Howard and
Julia Ruhlman spoke in favor of a zone change
request for a Planned Unit Development Specific Use Overlay District. Motion to
close the public hearing, introduce, and override Planning & Zoning. Moved: Cm.
J. Valdez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez 18. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending Article I Section 24.1.3.2, Responsibilities
of the Board of Adjustment, Creating Section 24.1.8, Standard Technical
Specification Manual Committee, Creating Article III Section 24.58, Standard
Technical Specification Manual, Creating Article VI Section 24.96, Amendment
Procedures for the Standard Technical Specification Manual, of the Laredo
Land Development Code of the City of Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Cm. Belmares pointed
out that the public hearing was introduced by City Council instead of
Cm. Belmares
as stated in the Council Communication.
Cm. J. Keith
Selman, City Planner, stated that staff will go through the process. He explained that the ordinance establishes
the committee that will work on the amendments to the spec book. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 19. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to accept $2,750.00
in various donations to the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation Department
and amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by 1)
appropriating revenues in the amount of $2,250.00 in the form of equal amount
donations of $750.00 each from: South
Texas National Bank, International Bank of Commerce and Escamilla and Poneck, Inc., and appropriating expenditures in the
amount of $2,250.00 for the attendance at Austin Expo 2004 in Austin, Texas;
2) appropriating revenues of $500.00 in the form of a donation from HEB Food
Stores and appropriating expenditures in the amount of $500.00 for the
purchase of recreational equipment for the Mario Tijerina Park ribbon cutting
ceremony. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 20. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to accept a grant in
the amount of $489,793.00 and amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004
Capital Improvements Projects Fund annual budget by appropriating revenues
and expenditures in the amount of $979,586.00 for the construction and
redevelopment of Zacate Creek Linear Park with 50%
funding from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Recreation Grant Program
and 50% local matching funds from Community Development Block Grants
($81,679.00) and a Tex-Mex land donation ($408,114.00). Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 21. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to accept a contribution
to the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation Department in the amount of
$12,500.00 from the Prairie Foundation and amending the City of Laredo FY
2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues of $12,500.00 in the form
of a contribution from the Prairie Foundation and appropriating expenditures
in the amount of $12,500.00 for the 2004 Summer Playground registration fees. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
Garcia 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 22. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual
budget by increasing expenditures and revenues in the amount of $65,750.00
from the Texas Department of Health and $36,965.00 in Program Income for a
six-month budget for the Immunization Action Program of the City of Laredo
Health Department for the grant period beginning on January 1, 2004, through
December 31, 2004; and amending the Full-Time Equivalent Positions by -.13. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 23. Public hearing amending the 2003
Consolidated One-Year Action Plan to reprogram a total of
$75,000.00 of the 29th Action Year (AY) 2003 Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) funds by reducing the amount of funding for the South Laredo
Cross Street Park Project, from $300,000.00 to $225,000.00 and creating a new
activity known as the Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 VIII. GENERAL COUNCIL
DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS 24. A. Request
by Council Member Hector J. Garcia 1. Discussion with possible action on placing
more street lights on Motion to
remove $20,000 from the discretionary funds of Cm. Garcia for street lights on Moved: Cm.
Garcia Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
B. Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore John Galo 1. Discussion with possible action on
establishing a program to allow interns to assist the Mayor and City Council. Paul de la
Pena, Professor at “It is with great pleasure that I was
asked to address the City Council tonight on the issue of establishing a
program for interns to assist the Mayor and the City Council members of the
City of My direct involvement with this issue
occurred in Currently, I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in
Political Science, with a concentration in Public Administration. My master’s is in International Political
Economy and has allowed me a broad perspective dealing with the intricacies
of local, state, and international policies.
I am also an adjunct faculty member at Since few, if any, of the City Council
members have staff or secretaries to assist them, and, as our city continues
to grow, the work load for each City Council member is heavy, I believe the
time has come to establish an “intern” program to assist the Mayor and City
Council members with their duties.
Some City Council members transact business from their homes and such
work, as it relates to the City of The duties of such a position would
include the following: Assisting Council Members with their
correspondence, faxes Acting as liaison between Council
Members, Handling such matters as delegated to
such intern by the City Council Members or Mayor (for instance, picking up
dignitaries at the airport, representing them meetings, conferences, etc.) Training Annual review – checks and balances Scheduling and appointments of Council
Members/Mayor Interns would be able to apply for the
positions with the City through the Council offices and should be juniors or
seniors at the University level, or have completed an associates degree from
a Community College in the field awareness of political activism which is
currently being taught at both Laredo collegiate campuses. Recommendations for the interns would be
coordinated by the Chair people from each The intern’s schedule would be determined
by each Council Member/Mayor and would be academic semesters (Fall, Spring,
Summer I & II). This would keep a
number of students working with City Government and again encourage direct
political activism in the local political arena. The terms of the interns could also be renewed and
encouraged as trust is developed with each Council Members/Mayor.” 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
trash bags and other trash within the city limits. Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo expressed his frustration with the debris caused from t-shirt
bags. He would like for staff to contact
the larger retailers and ask them what kind of an impact they would have if
the City of
C. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares 1. Discussion with
possible action on creating a speed watch program. Agustin
Dovalina, Police Cm. Belmares said
that Cm.
D. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez,
Jr. 1. Discussion with possible action regarding
the parking situation at 1400 Pierce and surrounding areas. Cm.
2. Recognition of the
AARP for being the most active local chapter in the state. Cm. 3. Discussion with possible action on the
relocation of a power pole located at 1004 Cm.
J. Valdez said it would be
addressed by staff. 4. Status report on the CP&L Road, with
possible action. Edward
Garza, from Crane Engineering, said that a meeting was held with Keith
Selman, Planning Director, and TxDOT to discuss the
environmental assessment which is required by the Federal Highway
Administration Standards Board. He noted
that the initial contract included doing a Phase I site; however, Crane
Engineering does not do that line of work so they hired a consulting firm. At the same time, Crane Engineering is keeping
the land owners abreast of current issues.
He noted that the landowners are in support of the project and he is
confident that when they are approached with the right-of-way acquisition
they will do their part. Letters have
been sent to the landowners in accordance with TxDOT
for official permission to access the properties including the CP & L
property. He went on to say that he
has been working with the CP & L officials from Edward
Garza said the final design stage would take 90 to 100 days. Cm. J.
Valdez asked for a monthly report on this item.
E. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez 1. Discussion with possible action on
modifications to Bridge II due to the current high alert. Cm. Ramirez expressed his desire to increase
the amount of traffic at Bridge II. Motion to
instruct the City Manager to report back to Council with a cost estimate for
bridge modifications to be done as soon as possible. Moved: Cm.
Ramirez No Second Motion dies
for a lack of second. Cm. Ramirez
said that he was not happy with the City Manager’s recommendation to wait for
2005 to do the modifications to the bridge.
2.
Discussion with possible action regarding driving safety precautions by law enforcement within the city limits. Motion to postpost. Moved:
Cm. Ramirez Second:
Cm. Galo For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 3. Status report on Calle Iturbide. Postponed by
Council Member Ramirez.
IX. INTRODUCTORY
ORDINANCES 25. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
lease agreement with approximately
2,378 square feet constituting Building No. 1228 located at Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 26. Setting the maximum speed limits on that
portion of Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 27. Authorizing the City Manager to enter into
a lease agreement by and between the Laredo
Transit Management, Inc., and the City of Laredo Community Development
Department for the lease of 6,628 sq.ft. of
building space at the Ordinance
Introduction: City Council X. RESOLUTIONS 28. 2004-R-001
Accepting the assignment of 7.758 acre feet of municipal water rights from
the balance of 244.6125 acre feet deeded to the City of Laredo by Vaquillas Ranch Company, Ltd. by applying 1 acre feet of
municipal water rights for water availability charges, and 0.158 acre feet
for meter connections fees for the final plat of San Isidro Monarch Unit I;
and 6.6 acre feet of municipal water rights for water availability charges in
connection with the final plat of Concord Hills Phases VI, VII and VIII. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-001. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 29.
2004-R-002 Accepting the donation of
two utility easements for the Pueblo Nuevo Subdivision easement
acquisition project, these being: a. A 0.0388 acre parcel from Maria del Carmen
Serna which is out of b. A 0.0302 acre parcel from Maria del Carmen
Serna which is out of Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-002. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 30. 2004-R-003
Accepting the donation of the “surface only” of a parcel of land from Cielito Lindo,
Ltd., a Texas Limited Partnership, for the construction of a fire station in
the Cielito Lindo
Subdivision. Said parcel of land being
Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-003. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 31. 2004-R-004
Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute an Interlocal Governmental
Agreement pursuant to the Vernon’s Texas Government Code, Chapter 791,
between the City of Laredo and the County of Webb, in which Webb County’s law
enforcement agency, name Webb County’s Sheriff’s Department and the city’s
law enforcement agency, name the Laredo Police Department, require the formation
of a mutual aid law enforcement task force to mutually assist each other in
the areas of traffic control, crowd control and general law enforcement both
within and beyond the city limits during the “Menudo
Bowl” scheduled for January 24, 2004. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-004. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 32. 2004-R-005
Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute an Interlocal Governmental
Agreement pursuant to the Vernon’s Texas Government Code, Chapter 791,
between the City of Laredo and the County of Webb, in which Webb County’s law
enforcement agency, name Webb County’s Sheriff’s Department and the city’s
law enforcement agency, name the Laredo Police Department, require the
formation of a mutual aid law enforcement task force to mutually assist each
other in the areas of traffic control, crowd control and general law
enforcement both within and beyond the city limits during the various
Washington’s Birthday Celebration festivities scheduled for January 31, 2004
to February 28, 2004. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-005. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 33. 2004-R-006
Declaring the public necessity to utilize the area under IH 35,
between Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-006. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 34. 2004-R-008
Accepting the donation of a 12.8167 acre parcel of land from the Mexican
Railway Company as legally described on the special warranty deed attached as
Exhibit “A” and authorizing the donation of this parcel of open space land in
the city for development as part of the Zacate
Creek Linear Park. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-008. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 35. 2004-R-009
Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application with the Office
of Governor, Criminal Justice Division for $1,142,115.00 to fund the Laredo
Narcotics Task Force. The City of Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-009. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 36. 2004-R-010
Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement between the
City of Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-010. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XI. MOTIONS 37. Consideration to reschedule the City
Council meeting of Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 38. Authorizing the City Manager to: (1)
execute the City of Services
with the South Texas Development Council (STDC) and the Texas Commission on
State Emergency Communications (CSEC) relating to establishing the City of
Laredo as the administrator for the provision of all 9-1-1 emergency services
for Laredo and for the counties of Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb, Zapata and cities
within this area; (2) execute all necessary interlocal
agreements with each county and city within the 9-1-1 area regarding the
respective 9-1-1 system responsibilities of said entities; and (3) submit the
revised FY 2004-2005, Stage Two 9-1-1 Regional Strategic Plan to the CSEC for
approval. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 39. Authorization to advertise for bids for the
construction of the Chacon Extension Wastewater
Trunk Line Project from Highway 59 and the Chacon Creek to the Bob Bullock
Loop east of the Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 40. Authorizing the City Manager to initiate
termination of construction contract with Pete Gallegos
Paving, Inc., Mr. Gallegos addressed Council about Motions 40
and 41. He said that he was surprised
to see the items on the agenda. He added
that they have been working for the City of Mr. McGettrick, Assistant Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez 41. Authorizing the City Manager to initiate
termination of construction contract with Pete Gallegos
Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Eastwoods Park
Project due to "Notice of Abandonment or Default of Contract"
pursuant to paragraph C-9.08 of the construction contract documents and the
Engineer's Certificate stating that sufficient cause exists to justify
termination of the construction contract and take actions as are permitted
under the terms of the construction contract. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 42. Consideration for approval of final change
order no. 2 a decrease of $1,437.50, acceptance
of the CDBG Sidewalks City-Wide Project No. 23 (29 Blocks) and approval of
final payment in the amount of $13,445.71 to Triple A Concrete, Inc., Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 43. Consideration to award a professional
services contract to TEC Engineers & Consultants,
Inc., Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 44. Consideration to award a professional
services contract to Foster Engineering Company, Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 45. Consideration to award a professional
services contract to Arcadis, the amount
not to exceed $22,400.00 for design and preparation of plans and
specifications for the CDBG Sidewalks City-Wide Project No. 27 (32
Blocks). Funding is available in the
Community Development Projects/Sidewalks. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 46. Consideration to award a professional
services contract to Howland Surveying Company Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 47. Consideration to amend the 29th Action Year
2003 Consolidated One Year Action Plan to
reprogram a total of $50,000.00 from the 2003 Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) funds by deleting the Inner City Park Phase
II-Irrigation/Landscaping Improvements and creating a public service activity
known as the Inner City Technology Instruction Program totaling $50,000.00. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 48. Authorizing the City Manager to (1) amend
its 2002 Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) contract
with the Laredo Homeless Coalition by reducing the amount of shelter
operation funds by a total of $60,000.00 from $75,000.00 to $15,000.00 and
(2) to enter into contract and award the $60,000.00 to Catholic Social
Services, Inc., for shelter operations of La Frontera
Halfway House. These changes pertain
to 2002 Emergency Shelter Grant Funds which are made available by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore
Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 49. Consideration for approval of a consultant
to perform asbestos material investigations for city
owned commercial and residential structures for FY 2003-2004 and
authorization to negotiate a professional services contract. Funding is available in the Improvements
Other Than Buildings Account. Mayor
Flores announced that the consultant is Drash
Engineering and O’Conner Engineering on a rotation basis. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 50. Consideration for approval of the selection
of consultant for the Chacon Creek Hike and Bike
Trail Phase II and authorization to negotiate a professional services
contract. Funding is available in the
Capital Improvement Fund Chacon Creek Hike and Bike Trail. The award
is to Land Design. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 51. Authorizing the City Manager to sign an
inter-local agreement with the
International Boundary
and Water Commission (IBWC) to collect quarterly Water Quality samples from Manadas Creek for the Clean River Program (CRP) for the
period of Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 52. Consideration to award a construction
contract to the lowest bidder SCS Field Services, Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 53. Motion to approve seventeen contracts
payable from the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund.
These contracts
are for fiscal year 2004 and total
$441,170.00. The contracts are
listed as follows: LULAC #7 $ 5,000.00
LULAC #12
$ 5,000.00 Society of Martha Washington $ 9,000.00 Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association $ 19,000.00 Laredo Children’s Museum $ 49,000.00 Latin American Sports Hall of Fame $ 4,000.00 L.C.C. Dance/Music Community Productions $ 31,815.00 T.A.M.I.U. Dance Productions $ 9,000.00 Border Olympics $
25,000.00 Streets of Mexican Cultural Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 54. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax
roll. The amount to be adjusted for month of November
and December 2003 represents an increase of $245,549.95. These adjustments are determined by Webb
County Appraisal District and/or by court orders. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 55. Refund of property tax to the following
taxpayers and companies: a. A refund in the amount of $508.14 payable to
Ricardo Rodriguez, due to an overpayment by the mortgage company
Account #938-80001-060. b. A refund in the amount of $709.64 payable
to Michael Brock, due to a double payment by the mortgage company, Account
#938-50001-140. c. A refund in the amount of $1,086.47 payable
to Wells Fargo Real Est. Tax SVCS, LLC,
due to an erroneous payment by the mortgage company. Account #989-10002-180. d. A refund in the amount of $1,104.67 payable
to Eduardo Diaz Realty, Inc., due to an overpayment by the taxpayer. Account #972-90004-060. e. A refund in the amount of $956.09 payable
to Falcon National Bank, due to an overpayment by the bank. Account #933-00001-030. f. A refund in the amount of $ 618.33 payable
to Falcon National Bank due to an overpayment by the bank. Account #103-00120-100. g. A refund in the amount of $685.72 payable
to Columbus Energy Corporation, due to a
Webb County Appraisal change of value certified by the Appraisal Review Board
for property that did not exist. Account #801-03023-135. h. A refund in the amount of $578.90 payable
to Robert Ray and Amy Isabel Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 56. Consideration to award contract number
FY04-026, to the low bidder, JJJ Int’l Safety Equipment, Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 57. Consideration to award contract number
FY04-024 to the low bidder, Al & Rob Sales, Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 58. Consideration to ratify the emergency purchase
of 42” wastewater pipe from Hobas Pipe Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 59. Ratify and approve action taken by the City
Manager on an
emergency contract to Grant Brothers, L.L.C. in the amount of $579,193.00 for
the repair of the collapsed 42” raw wastewater line into the Zacate Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 60. Authorization of the selection of the firm
Ferris and Flinn of Harlingen, Texas to update the
Utilities Department’s Capital Improvements Program for calculation of the
impact fees. This project consist of
updating the CIP, providing a hydraulic model of the water system, wastewater
model and a master plan for both water and wastewater improvements. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 61. Consideration to award contract FY04-023 to
the sole bidder, G.H. Construction, Inc., d/b/a G.H.
Pools, Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 62. Consideration to award of supply contract
number FY04-027 to the following low bidders: Libcon Inc. d/b/a
Leyendecker Materials, Laredo, Texas in the
estimated amount of $1,102,500.00, for the purchase of asphalt, black base,
flexible base, sand, and gravel; City Ready Mix, Laredo, Texas in the
estimated amount of $184,000.00, for the purchase of ready mix cement; Martin
Marietta, Corpus Christi, Texas in the estimated amount of $118,250.00 for
the purchase of Type A Flexible Base; Marlin Asphalt, Corpus Christi, Texas
in the estimated amount of $13,811.50 and GSAC, Houston, Texas in the
estimated amount of $4,200.00 for the purchase of asphalt oils. These will be the primary vendors for the
purchase of materials required for all city paving and construction
projects. The contract pricing for
asphalt is approximately 0.5% higher than the previous contract price. Funding is available in the Engineering
Department - Public Works Division budget and construction project budgets. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 63. Consideration to award contract number
FY04-034 to the low bidder, RM Personnel, Inc., Lots were
drawn by Mayor Flores and the winner chosen was Staff Force. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 64. Consideration to award contract number
FY04-028 to the sole bidder, Consolidated Traffic
Controls, Inc., Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 65. Consideration for approval of change order
no. 4 to the construction contract with
Brothers
Paving, Inc., Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 66. Consideration for approval of the selection
of consultant Matrix Security Systems, Inc., Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 67. Consideration for approval of acceptance of
the construction
project. A one-year warranty walk-through inspection was held on Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 68. Consideration to award contract FY04-030,
to the low bidder, A Clean Portoco, Motion to reject award and come back to Council with a 3% rule. Moved:
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 69. Authorizing the City Manager to submit a
grant application and execute all required documents
resulting from this submission to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
for the Individualized Marketing Demonstration proposal. The FTA is undertaking a research
demonstration program aimed at increasing public transit ridership
with a minimal need for capital investments and has proven successful in Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 70. Consideration to authorize the City Manager
to execute a contract with Petroleum Solutions
of Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XII. STAFF REPORTS 71. A. Presentation
by US Army Corps of Engineers regarding the creation of the Restoration
Advisory Board (RAB) for the Former Dan Davis,
representing the Army Corps of Engineers and who is a technical manager
of environmental projects connected
with the formally used Defense Site Program made the presentation. He asked for the Council’s assistance in
selecting members for the Restoration Advisory Board that will oversee and
supervise the clean-up of the site. He
submitted the following procedures for the record: Draft Operating Procedures for Former Laredo
AFB Restoration Advisory Board. 1. Mission
Statement of Former Laredo AFB Restoration Advisory Board
(RAB). The mission
of the Former Laredo AFB RAB is to establish and maintain a forum with all
stakeholders for the exchange of information in open and interactive dialogue
concerning the environmental restoration activities on the former AFB
property. The RAB will review
technical documents and provide comments and advice to the U. S. Army Corps
of Engineers, Fort Worth District (“the Corps”) on the proposed environmental
restoration activities. 2. Responsibilities
of the RAB. Responsibilities of
the RAB are as follows: a. Provide advice on environmental restoration
issues to the Corps and regulatory agencies. b. Hold regularly scheduled meetings that are
open to the public and held at convenient times and locations, normally
on weekday evenings. c. Prepare public notices to promote public
participation in RAB meetings. d. Prepare meetings agenda specifying
discussion topics for each meeting. e. Review, evaluate, and provide comments to
the Corps, on documents relating to environmental restoration activities. f. Recommend priorities among FUDS projects. g. Record minutes of RAB meetings and make
them available to interested parties. h. Develop RAB mission statement and operating
procedures. i.
Provide a public forum for all stakeholders to comment on and to
discuss environmental restoration activities at
the Former Laredo AFB. j. Run meetings in accordance with Robert’s
Rules of Order. 3. RAB membership will consist of members from
the Corps, Federal and state agencies,
local government, and the local community.
RAB membership will reflect the diversity of the community. a. Community members may be drawn from, but
are not limited to, the local community
(including residents; various local government agencies; businesses; school
district; local environmental groups (including activist groups);
civic/public interest organization; religious groups, local regulatory
agencies; Homeowners Associations; the medical community; the economically
disadvantages; African-American, Native American, Hispanic, and other
minority groups; other state and Federal agencies; trustees; and local and
tribal governments). Community membes will provide information, seek independent
technical advice when appropriate and feasible, communicate public concerns
to the RAB, and provide information
and progress reports to the public. b. Other RAB members will be as follows: 1. The Corps Co-Chair: Responsibilities of the Corps Co-Chair
(i.e. the project manager
(PM) or some other, higher-level the Corps manager) are listed in paragraph
7a below. 2. State Regulatory Agencies. Responsibilities of state regulatory agency
member (s) are listed in paragraph 7d below. 3. member (s) are listed in paragraph 7e
below. 4. RAB
Formation. General guidelines
applicable to the formation of a RAB are as follows: a. A RAB will consist of no more than 20
members. Members may be added to or removed
from the board at the discretion and approval of the RAB. b. A selection panel made up of community
members will recommend RAB members to the Corps’ District
Commander. c. RAB members will serve a two-year term. L
RAB members may submit an application
to serve another term (not to exceed 2 years) when their first term has been
completed. Total service will not
exceed 4 years. d. A Community Co-Chair will be elected by the
RAB members. The procedures for
conducting this election are specified in paragraph 6 below. The community Co-Chair will serve as 1 year
term, with re-election limited to one additional term. e. A PM or some other, higher-level the Corps
manager designated by the district Commander will serve as the Corps Co-Chair. 5. RAB
Meetings RAB members will comply
with the following meeting procedures: a. Each community member will have one vote on
the RAB’s operating procedures in RAB
meetings. Minutes of each RAB meeting
will be recorded for inclusion in the Administrative Record. b. Each RAB member will act individually in
discussions, in providing comments on
documents, and in providing advice to the Corps. The RAB is not an advisory committee, as
that term is used in the Federal Advisory Committee Act. All advice will be offered by RAB members
as individuals and is not to be construed as “consensus” advice. c. Regular, on-time attendance is a requirement
for continued RAB membership. The RAB
will meet once every three months, or any other period specified in the RAB
operating procedures. Members are
expected to attend every meetings.
After a member has missed two meetings without appropriate
explanation, the Corps, and Community Co-Chairs will send a 14-day written
notice to the member requesting written explanation within 14 days, of these
absences and indicating that after three issued meetings, the RAB will assume
that the member is no longer interested and will terminate his or her
membership. d. The RAB will encourage public
participation. Co-Chairs, or other
designated representatives,
will respond to questions raised by the public. If sufficient information is not available
to provide an accurate response at the meeting, the issue will be recorded to
the meeting transcript. A written response
to all issues raised will be provided.
The response provided will be an agenda item for discussion at the
next regularly scheduled meeting. All
public comments will be considered by the RAB and recorded in the meeting
transcript. e. Normally, only RAB Co-Chairs will speak to
the media on behalf or the RAB. RAB
community members must have prior approval of the RAB before speaking for the
RAB during press interviews and other public relations activities. f. When a RAB member is no longer able to
participate in RAB meetings, the member
should submit a written resignation or a RAB co-chairperson. Resigning members may n9ominate new members
to replace themselves. Replacement
members will also be sought from those individuals who were notified of their
non-selection when they initially completed the community interest
forms. New members must continue to
reflect the diversity of the community.
g. A Procedures Committee will be established
to resolve issues regarding compliance
with the operating procedures and to accept proposals from RAB members to
change the procedures. This committee
will be composed of the two Co-Chairs and one RAB member appointed by the
RAB. h. A Nomination Committee will be established
to accept nominations for election of the
Community Co-Chair. The procedures for
conducting the election are listed in paragraph 6 below. i. Disputes within the RAB will be resolved by
means of a three-step process. First, the
RAB Co-Chair will attempt to resolve the issue. When these efforts are not successful, an
independent facilitator may be brought in to resolve the issue. Disputes which cannot be resolved by the
Co-Chairs or facilitator may be formally presented to the Corps District
Commander for resolution. j. A
quorum of RAB member must be present in order to hold a RAB meeting. A quorum is
defined as both Co-Chairs, one regulatory agency member, and 51 percent of
the remaining RAB members. k. Member participation will follow a process
similar to that presented to Robert’s Rules of
Order. An agenda will be followed at
RAB meetings, with full and open discussions encouraged. Public comments or questions from the
public will be held at the end of the meeting. No time limit will be specified for the
meetings. RAB meetings will begin at l. The RAB will encourage public
participation. Co-Chairs, or other
designated representatives,
will respond to questions raised by the public. If suffiecient
information is not available to provide an accurate response at the meeting,
the issue will be recorded in the meeting transcript. A written response to
all issues raised will be provided.
The response provided will be an agenda item for discussion at the
next regularly scheduled meeting. All
public comments will be considered by RAB and recorded in the meeting
transcript. Meeting transcripts will
be published on the project web site. 6. Election
of Community Co-Chair. An election
will be held at the first meeting to elect
the Community Co-Chair, and bi-annually thereafter. Candidates may nominate themselves, be
nominated from the floor at the meeting, or be presented by the Nominating
Committee (note – since the Nominating Committee will not be formed at the
first meeting, there will be no candidate from this source for the first
election.) The Community Co-Chair will
be elected by a majority of the community RAB members, by written
ballot. If no candidates achieve a majority
of votes in the first round of voting, there will be a run-off election
between the two (or more in case of ties)top vote getters. Results will be
announced at the same meeting. The new
community Co-chair will assume his/her responsibilities immediately upon
election. 7. RAB
Member Responsibilities. a. Responsibilities of the Corps Co-Chair are
as follows: 1. Coordinate with the Community Co-Chair to
prepare and distribute an agenda prior to each RAB meeting. 2. Communicate with all RAB members regarding
Environmental restoration actions at the Former Laredo AFB. 3. Publicly announce RAB meetings at least
twice in the 15 days prior to the meeting date. In addition, agendas will be mailed to all
persons on the mailing list seven to fifteen days prior to the
meeting. 4. Ensure that the Corps participates in an
open and constructive manner. 5. Ensure that RAB members are educated and
trained regarding their responsibilities as a member of the RAB. 6. Ensure that the RAB is provided access to
documents for its review and comment. Ensure that an adequate review period is
allowed for the RAB members. Ensure
that documents distributed to RAB are also made available to the public in
the Information Repository in the Gainesville Public Library and on the
project web site. 7. Maintain a mailing list of interested and
affected parties in the Environmental restoration activities at the Former
Laredo AFB. Ensure that adequate administrative and
technical support is provided to the RAB. 8. Ensure that adequate administrative and
technical support is provided to the RAB. 9. Ensure that community issues and concerns
related to Environmental restoration actions are addressed when raised. 10. Ensure that the RAB is fully informed
during all phases of the Environmental restoration
process and that it has opportunities to participate in advising decision
makers before final decisions are made.
11. Provide all relevant guidance documents to
the RAB to enhance the operation of the RAB. 12. Report back to the Corps and refer issues
not related to Environmental restoration action to appropriate
officials for action. b. Responsibilities of the Community Co-Chair
are as follows: 1. Coordinate with the Corps Co-Chair and the
RAB members to prepare and distribute an agenda prior to each RAB
meeting. 2. Coordinate, as required, with the Corps
Co-Chair to ensure that RAB questions and concerns are answered in an
appropriate and timely manner. 3. Encourage open and constructive community
participation at RAB meetings. 4. Ensure that RAB members are trained
regarding their responsibilities as RAB members. 5. Communicated with RAB members regarding
Environmental restoration actions. 6. Ensure that community issues and concerns
related to Environmental restoration are
adequately addressed and that relevant information is communicated back to
the community. 7. Assist in the dissemination of information
to the general public. 8. Serve without compensation. c.
Responsibilities of RAB community members are as follows: 1. Attend RAB meetings as required by the RAB
operating procedures. 2. Provide advice on Environmental restoration
actions to decision makers. 3. Communicate community interests and
concerns to the RAB. 4. Serve as a conduit for the flow of
information among the community, the Corps, and other
involved Federal, state, and local agencies regarding the Environmental restoration
issues as the Former Laredo AFB. 5. Review, evaluate, and provide comments on
documents related to environmental restoration activities. 6. Serve without compensation. d. Responsibilities of state regulatory agency
member (s) are as follows: 1. Attend RAB meetings as required by RAB
operating procedures 2. Serve as an information, referral, and
resource bank for the community, the Corps, and
other involved Federal, state, and local agencies regarding environmental
restoration activities at the Former Laredo AFB. 3. Review and provide comments on documents
and other materials relatd to environmental restoration activities. 4. Ensure
that state environmental standards and regulations are identified and addressed by the Corps. 5. Facilitate flexible and innovation
resolutions of environmental issues and concerns. 6. Assist in the training of RAB members. e. Responsibilities of the EPA member (s) are
as follows: 1. Attend RAB meetings as required by RAB
operating procedures. 2. Serve as an information, referral, and
resource bank for the community, the Corps, and
other involved Federal, state and local agencies regarding Environmental
restoration actions at the Former Laredo AFB. 3. Facilitate flexible and innovative
resolutions of environmental issues and concerns. 4. Ensure that Federal environmental standards
and regulations are identified and addressed by the Corps. 5. Assist in the training of RAB members. 8. Amendments
to RAB Operating Procedures.
Amendments to RAB operating procedures
may be made with a three-fourths majority vote of a quorum of all RAB
members. Proposed amendments will be
referred to a Procedures Committee for evaluation and recommendation. Proposals will be voted on by all RAB
members after they receive the Procedures Committee’s written
recommendations. These recommendations
will be provided to the RAB members at least 20 days prior to the meeting in
which the proposed amendments will be addressed. Cm. J.
Valdez said that Cm. Cm. Motion to
always have Council Member or private citizen on that board and also include
the council Member from that district.
Moved: Cm.
J. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 B.
Staff report on park projects for District II, District V, and
District VII, and District VIII, with possible
action. Motion to
appropriate of discretionary funds in district V to include $75,000 to Zacate Creek irrigation and landscaping and $5,250 for Moved: Cm. Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 C. Status report on the Calle
Iturbide Project. D. Presentation by implementation
of a recommended plan of action for the taxicab industry that is consistent
with some of the findings and recommendations identified in a recently
conducted City of This item
was postponed. XIII. EXECUTIVE
SESSION The City
Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive session at any time
during this public meeting, if such is requested by the 72. Executive Session pursuant to Section
551.071 of the Government Code to discuss with Motion to
go into Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071 of the Government Code
to discuss with Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 The Mayor
announced that no formal action was taken during Executive Session. Motion to
direct the City’s legal counsel to proceed with the dismissal of co-defendant
Frank Architects as a party to the case, provided that all plaintiffs first
settle with Frank Architects and dismiss their claims against the party. Moved: Cm. Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 9 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 73. Request for executive session pursuant to
Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to
deliberate on the possible purchase, lease, or value of the Motion to
go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072
in order to deliberate on the possible purchase, lease, or value of the
Camino Colombia Toll Road, because deliberation in an open meeting would have
a detrimental effect on the position of the City Council in negotiations with
third persons; and return to open session for possible action. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 After
Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken. XIV. RECESS AS THE Motion to
recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 74. Consideration to award contract FY04-034 to
the low bidder, RM Personnel, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XV. ADJOURN AS THE
LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION AND CONVENE
AS THE Motion to
adjourn as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation and convene as the Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 75. Authorizing the City Manager to waive the
parking fee for persons attending the Jamboozie Festival
and implementing a flat fee charge of $200.00 to the Streets of Laredo Urban
Mall Association for personnel costs, overtime and extra security for traffic
and crowd control for the use of the parking facility at Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 76. Authorizing the City Manager to adjust the
number of weekly service hours from ninety-seven
(97) to forty-two (42) on route 21 South Laredo TAMIU, effective Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 77. Consideration to award contracts for
providing group health insurance coverage, for a period of
twelve months, to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas in the estimated annual
amount of $1,042,748.00; life insurance with accidental death and
dismemberment (AD&D), for a period of three years, in the estimated
annual amount of $14,889.00 to Mutual of Omaha; and short term disability
insurance, for a period of two years, in the estimated annual amount of
$71,440.00 to Mutual of Omaha. The
insurance agent for these policies will be Laurel Insurance Agency &
Associates, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XVI. ADJOURN AS THE Motion to
adjourn as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City
Council. Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo Second: Cm.
Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XVII. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn. Time: Moved: Second: For: Against: Abstain: SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA I. COMMUNICATIONS
AND RECOGNITIONS a. Recognition of the John B. Alexander High
School Cheerleaders for winning the National Championship in Mayor
Flores and City Council recognized the Alexander High School Cheerleaders for
winning the title of National Championship in II. 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 III. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to
adjourn. Time:
______ p.m. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 I, Gustavo
Guevara, Jr., ________________________________________ Gustavo
Guevara, Jr. |