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CITY OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2004-R-05 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS I. CALL TO ORDER With
a quorum present, Mayor Pro Tempore John C. Galo called the meeting to order. II. PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE Mayor
Pro Tempore John C. Galo led in the Pledge of Allegiance. III. ROLL CALL In
attendance: 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., City
Secretary Jaime
Flores, Motion
to excuse Mayor Flores, Cm. Agredano and Cm. Garcia. Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Belmares For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 IV. MINUTES Approval of
the minutes of Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 V. COMMUNICATIONS
AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements None. Invitations None. Recognitions a. Recognition of Doroteo
Vasquez of the Parks and Recreation Department on his selection as
February 2004 Employee of the Month. Horacio De
Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, read the following statement: The Parks
and Recreation Department is very proud in nominating their employee Doroteo “Teo” Vasquez. Mr.
Vasquez’ employment with the City began as a groundskeeper with the
Parks and Recreation Department in 1988.
With his dedication and hard work, he was promoted to crew leader in
1996. While different challenges came
about in our department, Mr. Vasquez
was not far from advancing as supervisor in the maintenance division. In December 2002, Mr. Vasquez was promoted to Building and
Grounds Supervisor. His 110%
dedication has show his willingness and capability
of taking on this new challenge in all aspects. Echoing the
new directive for “thinking outside the box”, Mr. Vasquez has initiated a maintenance plan
for converting manual irrigation systems to fully automating ones “in-house,”
throughout several of our City Parks to include: Veterans Field, Ladrillera
Soccer Field, His tenure
and proven track record with the Parks and Recreation Department demonstrate
his dependability and self initiative whenever necessary. During this month of February alone,
Mr. Vasquez successfully handled and
coordinated maintenance issues in several events that required his
expertise. The Jamboozie,
which kicked off the WBCA events, was one in which Mr. Vasquez was responsible for the placement
of all banners in the downtown area, as well as around City hall. During the WBCA events, Mr. Vasquez supervised in the maintenance of
our four downtown plazas before and after the Youth and Grand Parades. Another
demanding event in which Mr. Vasquez
demonstrated his expertise was with the Mayor’s Cup. Mr.
Vasquez supervised every maintenance issue including landscaping and
maintaining the park and playing fields at the Benavides Complex, by grading
them; and installing an automated irrigation system. The concession stand and restrooms were
also given a maintenance touch-up for this special event. Last, but
not least, the border Olympics. This
event required the painting of the press box, concession stand, and restroom
facilities at the Veterans Field Complex.
Mr. Vasquez supervised the
maintaining of the field represents the best quality ball field in the As a
supervisor his work is overwhelming, yet it speaks for itself where
supervision is rarely required by higher management. Mr.
Vasquez is on call day and night, without any hesitation whenever a
situation arises; his punctuality and attendance reflect this. There is no
doubt that Mr. Vasquez is a leader
with initiative and dependability, who leads by example and demonstrates to
his crews that he knows his field in the area of building and grounds
maintenance. Mr. Vasquez maintains a well-organized schedule
and assures that all projects have and will come through successfully. Ms. Vasquez deals with the public on occasion
and always provides good customer service.
His mission, along with the department, is to provide a fund, safe,
and clean environment for the community of His 16
years experience with the Parks and Recreation Department, demonstrate great
pride in his work and has earned the respect and confidence from his workers,
co-workers, and management.
Communiqués Cm. Amaya
thanked Cm. Belmares congratulated Horacio De Leon,
Parks and Recreation Director, and his staff for a groundbreaking ceremony
that was held at Cm. Cm. Ramirez mentioned that Little Cesar’s Pizza
and J. L. Car Wash have opened for business in District VIII. Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo asked for a moment of silence for the recent passing of Mary
J. Solis and other Laredoans
that have recently lost their lives.
He went on to congratulate individuals who traveled to
Washington. He added that he had
attended the Border Trade Alliance in 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 5, Block 563, Eastern Division, located at 918 Willow
Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-3 (Mixed Residential
District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed zone change. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved:
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. J.
Valdez, Jr. 2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning the west 46.30 feet of Lot 8, Block 1536, Eastern
Division, located at 2602 Ash Street, from R-1 (Single Family Residential
District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District); providing for
publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone
change. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Juan
Botello, resident of said area, spoke against the proposed zone change. He pointed out that there are two schools
in the area and he is concerned about the safety of the children. He also expressed his concerns regarding additional
vehicular traffic in the area noting that the proposed apartments would only
increase the traffic flow causing more traffic accidents. Marcial Ruben Gonzalez, future
resident of the area, spoke against the zone change for the same reasons as
Juan Botello. Motion to close the public hearing and postpone
for 30 days. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. 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 general
automotive repair on Lots 19 and 20, Block 30, Vista Hermosa, Unit II,
located approximately at the 5400 block of McPherson Road, 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: Cm. Amaya Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. E.
Valdez, Jr. 4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning 21.88 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A,” located east of Havanna
Drive, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area
District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended approval of the proposed zone change. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm.
Belmares 5. 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 used car
lot on Lot 4, Block 236, Western Division, located at 1309 San Dario Avenue;
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: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
postpone for next meeting. Moved:
Cm. Ramirez Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending Laredo Land Development Code, Sections
24.63.2, 24.65.14 and Appendix A, by allowing, regulating and defining
nationalization “nacionalizacion” of vehicle
enterprises in certain zoning districts; providing for publication and
effective date. The Planning and Zoning
Commission has recommended approval of the proposed ordinance amendment. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing Batista Roman Enterprises, 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. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Oscar
Medina, Solid Waste Director, assured the Council that the applicant has the
capacity to comply with the requirements of the franchise once Council
approves it. He said that the City
Manager has asked staff to review the current ordinance and report back to
council with recommendations. Manuel
Bautista spoke before the Council to explain the nature of his
franchise. Cm. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
accepting a grant from the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) which has awarded a $27,350.00 grant with the City of Laredo
designating $11,722.00 in matching funds for a total of $39,072.00 and
amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget from General Fund by
appropriating the said grant revenue to the appropriate expenditure
accounts. The grant monies will be
used to implement rapid intervention team kits (rit
kits) along with the purchase of the two (2) thermal imagers. Matching funds are available in General
Fund. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 full-time
equivalent positions by increasing one (1) part-time Health Educator position
on a total of .48 FTE without benefits
to .50 FTE with benefits in the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning November 1,
2003 through June 30, 2004. Funding is
available in Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Grant. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and
introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 10. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of
Laredo’s FY 2003-2004 full-time equivalent positions by converting three (3)
part-time with no benefits (1.44 FTE) Community Service Aide positions at
19.21 hours each per week to one (1) full-time position with benefits
Community Service Aide position in the HIV Prevention Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department, funded by the Texas Department of Health to provide
continuous support services to the HIV Program clients and to maintain
effective preventive services. Funding
is available in the HIV Prevention Project Grant. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of
Laredo’s FY 2003-2004 full-time equivalent positions by converting one (1)
part-time with no benefits (.48 FTE) Community Service Aide position at 19.21
hours each per week to one (1) full-time with benefits Community Service Aide
position for HIV-Infected Persons Project (PSHIP) of the City of Laredo
Health Department to provide continuous support services and to maintain
effective client prevention services. Funding
is available in the HIV-Infected Persons Project (PSHIP) Grant. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmare Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 12. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of
Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by increasing revenues and expenditures by
$10,000.00 which represents a contribution from Mercy Health Plans for
children’s health insurance outreach activities of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning May 1, 2004, through September 30, 2004. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 13. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual
budget by decreasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $33,644.00 to
reflect the actual grant amount of
$332,590.00 from the South Texas Development Council for the HIV/AIDS
Ryan White Title II Services Program of the City of Laredo Health Department
for the period of April 1, 2004, through March 31, 2005. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 14. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the
Federal Bureau of Investigation in the amount of $10,000.00 and amending the
City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 General Fund by 10,000.00. The purpose of the agreement is to
reimburse the cost of overtime and fringe benefits incurred by the Laredo
Police Department in providing resources to OCDETF (Organized Crime Drug
Enforcement Task Forces). The term of
this agreement is from October 1, 2003 through September 30, 2004. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 15. Public Hearing and introductory ordinance
amending Chapter 14 (Garbage, Trash & Refuse) of
the Code of Ordinances, specifically to update the ordinance to address the
Solid Waste Director, add and refine definitions and services, change the
Landfill City Vehicle Rate Fee to $1.25, add a commercial exemption
administrative fee of $2.50, to add a credit account late fee of $100.00 and
revise franchise requirements; providing for publication and effective
date. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 16. Public hearing and introductory ordinance
amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Solid Waste
Fund Budget by appropriating a draw down of $241,751.00 from the opening
balance and appropriating it for equipment acquisition. The project consists of one (1), five wheel
loader for landfill operations. The bid price includes provisions for a
five-year maintenance contract and guaranteed repurchase price. Motion to
open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was
no public input. Motion to
close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmare Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council VII. INTRODUCTORY
ORDINANCES 17. Authorizing the City Manager to convey on
behalf of the City of Laredo, as Trustee,
Lots 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, and 7, Block 261, Eastern Division, to Laredo Independent School
District; such conveyance being for the consideration of $182,000.00 of which
the net proceeds shall be disbursed to the creditor taxing entities in the
proportion each entity holds of the Tax Judgment; and providing for effective
date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 18. Authorizing City Manager to (1) convey
Benavides Street between Davis and Main Avenues and
(2) to convey Garcia Street between San Dario and San Eduardo Avenues,
subject to retention of easements for existing utilities on said street
sections and (3) to sign a Licensing Agreement whereby LISD may use
indefinitely a 20' wide section of Davis Avenue of 0.0291 acres adjacent to
Blocks 255 and 274, Western Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas,
as a parking adjunct to MacDonnell School. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 19. Authorizing the City Manager to convey to
Laredo Independent School District, for the consideration
of $19,300.00, a tract of land being
the section of Plum Street between Logan and Tilden Avenues, with reservation
of the tract as a drainage and utility easement; and providing for effective
date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 20. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
Foreign-Trade Zone Operations Agreement between the
City of Laredo, as Zone Grantee of Foreign-Trade Zone No. 94, and Transmaritime, Inc., as Zone Site Operator, for
approximately one (1) acre of activated space located at 22219 Mines Road,
Foreign-Trade Zone Site 8 for three (3) years commencing on March 1, 2004 and
ending on February 28, 2007. Said
agreement provides that activation, administration and transaction fees be
paid to the City; providing for an effective date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 21. Closing as a public easement a 231.45 sq.
ft. (5’ x 46.29’) parcel of land, more or less, out of the
1300 block of Green Street between Stone and Loring
Avenues, said parcel of land is being encroached upon by the improvements of
the abutting property being Lot 9, Block 714, Eastern Division, City of
Laredo, County of Webb, described in attached “Exhibit A” and authorizing the
sale of the “Surface Only” of said parcel of land at the market value of
$556.00 and authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents
to effectively convey fee simple title to Patricia Hernandez and providing
for an effective date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 22. Setting the maximum speed limit on that
portion of FM 1472 within the city limits of Laredo,
Webb County, Texas, from 50 mph to 45 mph from milepoint
14.2 to milepoint 13.9 and as from 55 mph to 45 mph
from milepoint 13.9 to 13.8 as defined in the Texas
Department of Transportation control section map 2150-04-040, to be in effect
during construction providing for installation of appropriate signs to
indicate speed changes in the designated areas and providing for publication
and effective date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council VIII. FINAL READING OF
ORDINANCES Motion to
waive the final readings of Ordinances # 2004-O-055, # 2004-O-056; #
2004-O-057; # 2004-O-058; # 2004-O-059; # 2004-O-060; and # 2004-O-061. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 23. 2004-O-054
Adopting a budget for FY 2003-2004 for the South Texas Regional 911 System
Fund. The proposed budget consists of
$1,015,921.00 in revenues from the Commission on State Emergency
Communications and $1,015,921.00 in expenditures for the following counties: Webb (City of Laredo) County, Jim Hogg
County, Starr County, Zapata County and Regional System. Motion to postpone until next meeting. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez,
Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-055 Authorizing the City Manager to amend the
City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Full Time Equivalent Positions by
reclassifying three (3) Fire Fighter Positions to three (3) Fire Captain
Positions for the Fire Suppression Division, Funding is available in the General Fund
Reserve Appropriation in the amount of
$27,651.00. Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-055. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez,
Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-056 Closing as a public easement that section
of McDonnell and Monterrey Avenues situated
in the Eastern Division, City of Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-056. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez,
Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-057 Closing as a public easement that section
of the 2200 block of Street
between the west right-of-way line of Eagle Pass Avenue and the Laredo
Community College property situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo,
County of Webb, and providing for an effective date. Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-057. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez,
Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-058 Abandoning
two utility easements located in 39.94
feet of Lot 73, Block 5 Regency Park Subdivision, Unit 1, Section 1, City of
Laredo, Webb County, Texas, as shown in Exhibit “A”; and providing for
effective date. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-058. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-059 Amending Chapter 19, Section 541 to 544,
titled “Transit Committee,” Motor Vehicles and Traffic,” Article XII,
Division I “Transit System,” of the Code of Ordinances of the City of appointment and role of the City Council
members serving on the Transit Committee; providing for severability; and
effective date. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-059. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-060 Designating
as a one-way northbound the 700 and 800 block of Avenue,
between Market Street and Guatemozin Street and as
a one-way southbound the 700 and 800 block of Malinche
Avenue, between Market Street and Guatemozin
Street, providing for the installation of appropriate signs to indicate
one-way traffic in the designated directions and providing for publication
and effective date. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-060. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-061 Amending the
FAR Part 150 Program
Fund budget for the FY 2003-2004 by appropriating $400,000.00 from the
beginning fund balance of $623,981.00 for demolition costs, for those
properties that are not feasible for renovation and authorizing the City
Manager to implement said budget amendment. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-061. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 IX. RESOLUTIONS 24. 2004-R-024
Accepting the donation of a 0.003 of an acre (123.984 sq. ft.) parcel
of land, as a permanent
easement, from the Ike Alexander Estate, for the Iturbide
Street Urban Mall Project. Said parcel
of land being out of Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-024. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 25. 2004-R-025
Accepting the donation of a Drainage Easement from Alexander Residential
Development, L. P., a Texas Limited Partnership. Said Drainage Easement
consisting of two tracts, located in the DJ Alexander Subdivision being: Tract I – a
151.00-foot-wide strip of land containing 41,817 square feet or 0.96 acres of
land, more or less, out of Porcion 25, Abstract 50,
and partly out of Porcion 26, Abstract 282, City of
Laredo, Webb County, Texas; as described by metes and bounds and survey
attached as Exhibits A and B; and Tract II –
a 156.00-foot-wide strip of land containing 69,553 square feet or 1.60 acres
of land, more or less, out of Porcion 25, Abstract
50, and partly out of Porcion 26, Abstract 282,
City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; as described by metes and bounds and
survey attached as Exhibits C and D. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-025. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 26. 2004-R-026
Accepting the donation of one utility easement from Leopoldo Rodriguez
and wife, Yolanda
Rodriguez, for the D-5 Acres Subdivision Easement Acquisition Project. This
being a strip of land 15 feet in width, containing 3,142.44 square feet or
0.072 of an acre, more or less, and being situated in Porcion
33, Abstract 3084, D-5 Acres Subdivision, and described by metes and bounds
and survey attached as Exhibits A and B. Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-026. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 27. 2004-R-027
Authorizing the City Manager to apply for a grant in the amount of $637,267.00
to fund the Laredo Financial Disruption Task Force and a grant in the amount
of $99,916.00 to fund the Laredo Multi-Agency Drug Related Public Corruption
Task Force. Both grants are funded by
the Executive Office of the President, Office of the National Drug Control
Policy (ONDCP), High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area
(HIDTA) at no cost to the City. Funding
will be used to pay benefits, overtime, travel and operating expenses from
January 1, 2005 through December 31, 2005.
Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-027. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 28. 2004-R-028
Authorizing the surplus proceeds from the City of Motion
to approve Resolution # 2004-R-028. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 29. 2004-R-029
Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Interlocal
Agreement between the Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-029. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 30. 2004-R-030
Authorizing the City Manager to submit two grant applications to the Federal
Aviation Administration Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-030 with the grant numbering corrections from 41
to 40 and from 42 to 41. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 31. 2004-R-031
A resolution of the City of Laredo, Texas, opposing any school finance
or tax system reforms that
would negatively affect city revenues and economic development efforts. Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-031. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 32. 2004-R-032
Resolution expressing the City of Laredo, USA, to the citizens of Spain
and the people of Spain for the tragedy of the terrorist attacks of March 11, 2004, and directing the
City Secretary to transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the King of
Spain and the Mayor of our Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-032 with the correction to add the word
“condolences of”. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 33. 2004-R-033
A resolution of the City of Plan
to End Homelessness throughout the community by providing access to permanent
and transitional housing and the needed support services. Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-033. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 X. MOTIONS 34. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Laredo and
the County of Webb in the amount of $36,026.00 for the provision of
addressing for all unincorporated areas in Webb County and addressing
maintenance for all of Webb County, including the incorporated area of the
city of Laredo, for the period ending August 31, 2004. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 1 Plus Mayor
Pro Tem Galo Cm.
Amaya 35. Approval to appoint Dr. Maurice Click to
continue to serve as the Health Department’s Health
Authority under Section 121.033 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, for the
period of April 1, 2004, through March 31, 2006, and authorizing the City
Manager to enter into a contract with Dr. Click for professional services in
the amount not to exceed $12,720.00 per year.
Funding is available in the Office of Public Health Practice Grant. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 36. Consideration to approve a contract with
Washington’s Birthday Celebration Museum of Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 37. 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 $15,000.00 from $60,000.00 to $45,000.00 and (2) to enter into
contract and award the $15,000.00 to Casa de Misericordia
for shelter operations. 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: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 38. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a
six-month Extension Agreement and allocating an
additional $109,554.00 to the originally approved budget in the amount of
$215,762.00, of a Professional Services Contract entered into with W. D. Schock Company, Inc., for the provision of residential
sound reduction services, as part of the City of Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 39. Consideration to award contract FY04-059 to
the low bidder, Cere Environmental, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 40. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax
roll. The amount to be adjusted for
the month of February 2004,
represents an increase of $82,563.87.
These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and
by court orders. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 41. Refund of property tax to the following
taxpayers and companies: a. A refund in the amount of $2,052.28 payable
to Guaranty Residential Lending due to a double
payment. Account # 968-81001-020. b. A refund in the amount of $737.57 payable
to Chase Mortgage due to a double payment. Account # 909-00481-042. c. A refund in the amount of $1,010.64 payable
to Border Title Group due to double payment. Account # 909-40002-050. d. A refund in the amount of $3,078.78 payable
to Holt Company of double
payment. Account # 804-30098-001. e. A refund in the amount of $3,921.81 payable
to Ayoub Investments-Texas due to a clerical error certified by the Webb
County Appraisal Review Board. Order #
03-6255 of Supplement # 1. Account #
977-30003-140. f. A refund in the amount of $634.86 payable
to Juan A. Esparza due to a double payment. Account # 936-00009-140. g. A refund in the amount of $524.90 payable
to The Laredo National Bank due to an erroneous
payment. Account # 968-80003-060. h. A refund in the amount of $1,000.02 payable to Jose Vasquez Ancira and Luis F. Vasquez Diaz due to an over payment Account # 977-30001-050. i.
A refund in the amount of $945.05 payable to Aurora Loan Services,
Inc. due to a double
payment. Account # 990-20014-050. j. A refund in the amount of $569.99 payable
to Araceli Gallo due to an erroneous payment. Account # 811-18000-186. k. A refund in the amount of $8,274.01 payable
to Lowe's Home Center Inc. due to a decrease in value certified by the Webb
County Appraisal Review Board. Case #
2002CVQ000976-D2 of Supplement # 8.
Account # 976-20002-300. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 42. Consideration to authorize the purchase of
nine thousand (9,000) garbage/refuse carts from Toter,
Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 43. Authorizing the issuance of a request for
proposal (RFP) for the Rail Line Relocation Feasibility
Study. The Metropolitan Planning
Organization MPO has budgeted $60,000.00 for the project and funding for the
project is available in the MPO Account. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 44. Amending the construction contract with
Landmark Structures Inc., for the over sizing of the SH 359 Work Order
#6 Elevated Storage Tank from 250,000 gallons to 500,000 gallons. The contract is subject to the approval by
the Texas Water Development Board. This amendment increases the contract by
$92,000.00 from $913,950.00 to $1,005,950.00. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 45. Consideration to fund an additional year of
the contract with the Southwest Texas Rain Enhancement
Association for $77,397.53 to cover the cost of the 2004 program. The program, which will run through
December 2004, provides coverage of the entire surface of Webb County. The City will guarantee the full payment of
the program and will collect contributions and other commitments from Webb
County landowners to defray the cost.
Funding is available in the Water Availability Fund. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 46. Authorizing the City Manager to amend a
professional services contract to Professional Operations,
Inc., Dallas, Texas, in the amount of $14,940.00 for services related to the
update of adjustment of the rate study in order to anticipate the current
needs of the Capital Improvement Fund.
The rate study will be used to plan future bond issuances. Funding is available in the Impact Fees
Account. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 47. Consideration for approval of the selection
of consultant Saldana and Associates, Inc., Motion
fails. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 4 Against: 2 Abstain: 0 Mayor
Pro Tem Galo Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. Upon being
put to a vote, the motion failed due to lack of five affirmative votes. 48. Consideration for approval of the El Cuatro
Park/Electrical and Illumination System and approval of final
payment in the amount of $9,354.87 to Cantu Electric Company, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 49. Consideration for approval of acceptance of
the Inner City Park located between Locust and Plum
Streets and between Barcelona Avenue and McDonnel
Avenue, and approval of final payment in the amount of $60,675.09 to
Leyendecker Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final contract amount is
$2,576,691.35. Funding is available in
the Inner City Park and Retainage Payable. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 50. Consideration for approval of acceptance of
the construction of 8 feet high wrought- iron fence between Laredo
International Bridges 1 and 2 at the former GSA import lot and approval of
final payment in the amount of $7,639.00 to J. Solis Maintenance and Welding
Services, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 51. Consideration to award a construction
contract to the sole bidder Rhino Builders, Ltd., Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 52. Consideration for approval to re-bid the
Zacate Creek Linear Park Phase III, IV & V – Scope II
due to the sole bidder’s failure to submit a bid bond, therefore bid is not
acceptable. Funding is available in
the Capital Improvement Fund - Zacate Creek Linear Park. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 53. Approval of City staff's recommendation for
termination of construction contract with Pete
Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Eastwoods
Park Project due to "Notice of Abandonment of Work and Default of
Contract," and 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 taking actions as are
permitted under the terms of the construction contract. Motion to
withdraw. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 54. Approval of City staff's recommendation for
termination of construction contract with Pete
Gallegos Paving, Inc., Laredo, Texas, for the Santa Rita Park Improvements
Project due to "Notice of Abandonment of Work and Default of
Contract," and 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
withdraw. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 55. Consideration to award a design/build
contract to TNT Construction Company, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 56. Consideration to award an engineering
contract to Olympia Landscape Irrigation & Lawn
Service, Laredo, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $62,800.00 for surveys,
design, and preparation of plans and specifications and installation of all
equipment necessary thereof for the Zacate Creek Irrigation Project to be
located between Saunders and Lyon Streets West of Zacate Creek. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvements Projects - Zacate Creek Irrigation. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 57. Consideration to award an engineering contract
to Quality Water Products Irrigation Division,
San Antonio, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $101,140.00 for surveys,
design, and preparation of plans and specifications and installation of all
equipment necessary thereof for the Father McNaboe
Irrigation Project to be located at the developed soccer, baseball, picnic
and open play areas at the lower level of the park. Funding is available in Capital
Improvements Projects–Father McNaboe Park
Improvements. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 58. Consideration to award contract FY04-063 to
the low bidder, BWI, Schulenburg, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 59. Consideration to award contract FY 04-062
to Leslie Poolmart, Inc., Phoenix, Arizona, in the estimated amount
of $35,626.42 for providing pool chemicals for the Parks and Recreation
Department. The City received four
bids for the purchase of pool chemicals for the maintenance of City’s
swimming pools. Due to lack of storage
space and safety concerns of storing high volumes of chlorine, the department
is now requesting that the chemicals be delivered monthly to each swimming
pool. The contract pricing is the same
as the previous year. Funding is
available in the Parks and Recreation Department budget. Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 60. Consideration to award contract
FY04-060-124, to UTW Tire Collection Services, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 61. Consideration to award contract number
FY04-058 to the low bidder, Mr. Camera, Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Amaya For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 1 Plus Mayor
Pro Tem Galo Cm.
Ramirez XI. STAFF REPORTS 62. A.
Status report on Veteran’s Monument. Horacio De
Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, said that the Veteran’s Advisory
Committee met to discuss the Veteran’s Monument status. It was further discussed and agreed by the
Veterans Advisory Committee that because of tight contingency dates it would
be best to move the unveiling to the next national holiday which is Luis De
Leon, asked Council to modify the Veteran’s Advisory Committee’s decision to
only include the names of national organizations on the monument. He said that it was not the Committee’s
intent to have the Laredo Veteran’s Coalition excluded because all veterans
are somehow affiliated to the organization.
He added that the Laredo Veteran’s Coalition distributes funds to the
veterans and their widows. He also questioned
the placement of the bricks with names on them because donations have been
given to the GI Forum. He gave
suggestions for the project and said that the brick should be 4” by 8”. Luis De
Leon asked Council to approve the brick project. XII. GENERAL COUNCIL
DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS 63. A.
Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya 1. Status report on pending repairs of empty
elevated storage tank at Lyon and Meadow. Pablo
Martinez, Utilities Department, reported that the pending repairs of empty
elevated storage tank at Lyon project originally consisted in civilizing the
ground beneath the tank, repairing the concrete slab, and realigning the
inside of the tank. He said that most
of the work has been completed but the there are change orders that are still
pending. Marcus
J. Naiser,
P.E., and employee of LNV Engineering, gave a comprehensive report about
pending repairs of the elevated storage tank.
He said that the primary contractor is completing ejection of the
high-density poly earth project to density the soil and fill the voids
beneath the floor and foundation of the tank.
They have also removed the seals at the water stalks of the two
internal concrete joints inside the tank that was previously leaking and
replaced them with hydrophilic water stalk material. He added that they have nearly completed
the interior lining which they used a high density poly urethane coating for
the walls and the floors. They also
applied a poly membrane to seal off whatever leaks possible region. Finally, he said that they are 97% complete
and the contract completion date is May 5th with the total cost
amount of $581,000. 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
traffic and street repairs on Lyon Street between Cm. Amaya expressed his concerns for the street
repairs on 3. Discussion with possible action regarding
lighting on and Meadow,
with possible action. 4. Authorizing the use of approximately
$5,000.00 in discretionary funds from District IV for the construction of
sidewalks on the south side of the 700 block of Stewart. Construction will be completed in-house by
the Engineering/Public Works Department and proceeding with the 1300 Block of
Stewart funded by the Transit Sales Tax Fund. Cm. Amaya stated that the agenda item should
read “north” and not “south”. He also
said that the job had been completed by the Public Works Department. B. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares 1. Discussion with possible action regarding
parking issues in District VI. Cm. Belmares said that he is concerned about
the Parking for Permit Program which was started last year. He mentioned that some the signage was not
completed. Cm. Belmares asked for a complete report on Cm. Belmares also discussed commercial parking
by the border patrol station north of 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
park space in District VI. Horacio De
Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, discussed the acre around Cm. Belmares asked Horacio De Leon to discuss
future developments in District VI. Horacio De
Leon, Parks & Recreation Director, said that the Parks and Recreation
Board met and asked staff to look at the fencing that fronts Rangel
Field. In December staff submitted a
cost estimate of $15,267 which was not approved. The current cost for the fencing has
increased to $25,000. Motion to use
discretionary funding from Cm.
Belmares to complete the fence at Rangel field and instruct staff to
develop a community based project to complete the other portion. The community based project would include
plants, other materials, and labor. Moved: Cm.
Belmares Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Horacio De
Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, said that staff has researched further
development of the Cm. Belmares asked if staff could make the
property more accessible for baseball or soccer by clearing the land and
installing backstops or soccer goals. He
asked the City Manager to come back with a proposal to use the field. He suggested using community based funds
for the Horacio De
Leon said that 3. Request for comprehensive report regarding
COPS program, including initial intent, accomplishments
to date, and future plans. Cm. Belmares said that he would place the item
back on the agenda in 30 days. Chief Dovalina
said that the original intent of the program was to go into community
policing which was a pro-active approach to policing as opposed to reactive
approach. Community policing included
visiting neighborhoods, implementation of or deployment of officers in
specific areas within the City to address problems, and people making
partnerships to be able to address whatever concerns they have. The program was implemented by a small
group of individuals and was expanded into a city wide initiative. The department tapped into federal funding
for additional personnel to be able to accomplish the purpose. The program has reached an end to the
federal funding under the Department of Justice. The next step is to continue in that growth
personnel and resource wise to accommodate the entire city. There are a number of initiatives that staff
are looking at and hoping to get more funding. We are hoping to be able to supplement the
areas that are still lacking in optimum number of personnel to be able to
better enhance our community police initiative. 4. Discussion with possible action regarding
the 2004 street recycling program. City
Engineer, Cm. Belmares instructed the City Manager to return
to Council with recommendations on a sealant program similar to what TxDOT uses for hiways. C. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez 1. Discussion with possible action regarding
the hiring of police officers due to recent retirement
numbers at Police Department. Chief
Dovalina said that the Police Department has 401 sworn officer positions with
80 civilian positions. The Civil
Service Commission will be administering promotional examinations and they
will be administering a police examination on May 5th. There are 11 cadets in training. He added that the department has a team of recruiters
that have been visiting universities, job expositions, and job fairs and they
are trying to recruit people from Motion
looking into hiring more police officers for next year’s budget. Moved: Cm.
Ramirez Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 5 Against: Abstain: 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
distribution of information and hosting of town hall
meeting to educate business owners in crime prevention. Cm. Ramirez mentioned that the recent outbreak
of burglaries and theft prompted him to place the item on the agenda. He said that he has visited several crime
scenes and noticed that the owners have deficiencies in their security. He asked the Chief if he could organize a
town hall meeting for interested businessmen to learn tips that will deter
the rash of break-ins. Agustin Dovalina,
Chief of Police, advised that the Department has been visiting with business
owners in the area to advise them of several educational services that the
department has to offer at no cost. He
added that the Community Relations Unit will be initiating block watches for
interested individuals especially in areas where burglaries have been
occurring. He said that staff will
distribute flyers and encourage interested individuals to attend a town hall
meeting. In addition to the CRU unit,
the other departments have been working very diligently to solve the crimes
and have arrested six individuals for burglaries/theft in that area. Cm. J.
Valdez made a suggestion for the Crime Unit to visit the interested
businesses individually to education and advise them where they have
deficiencies in their security rather than holding a town hall meeting. 3. Discussion with possible action regarding
increasing illumination of street lights from the 1200 to
2700 blocks of 4. Status report on El Cuatro and Horacio De
Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, said that all major items of
construction are complete at El Cuatro Park.
He noted some minor items that are pending such as parking lot
striping, hydro mulching/seeding, and installation of a water fountain,
tables, and the basketball goals. He
added that the Seven Flags Park Project is included in the agenda for award
of a contract to Rhino Builders, Ltd.
The contract time is 160 calendar days. 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 64. Request for Executive Session pursuant to
Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to
deliberate on the value of, and possible purchase of, real property near
Laredo International There was
no Executive Session action taken. XIV. ADJOURNMENT CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING A-2004-S-02 CITY COUNCIL
CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON
STREET
LAREDO,
TEXAS 78040 MARCH
29, 2004 5:30
P.M. SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA I. PUBLIC HEARING 1.
Public
hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2003-2004 Annual Budget by
authorizing the addition of one (1) Administrative Assistant I position for
the South Texas 9-1-1 Regional Administration. Funding is available in the 9-1-1 Regional
Fund, Administration Division. Motion to open the public
hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the public
hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 4 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez was not
present. Ordinance Introduction: City Council
II. RESOLUTION 2.
2004-R-034
Expressing the support of the City Council of the City of Laredo for
the Mike Waters
proposal to continue the existing allocation formula establishing the
methodology for the next two years (2005-2006) and correspondingly expressing
its opposition to the adoption of a revised formula as may be proposed by the
Office of Rural Community Affairs Executive Board and directing the City
Secretary to forward a copy of this resolution to the Executive Board of the
Office of Rural Community Affairs and to South Texas Development
Council. (Co-sponsored by Council
Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr. and Council Member Johnny Amaya) Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-034. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For:
5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
III. GENERAL COUNCIL
DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
3. A.
Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr. 1.
Status
report by United Water regarding water and sewer breaks that occurred
recently, with possible action.
(Co-Sponsored by Council Member Johnny Amaya) Terrace W.
Stewart, P. E., Operations Manager for United Water, gave the
following presentation: 30” Water Transmission Main Break at Price
& Tilden and 36” Wastewater interceptor Collapse at Drainage Channel
South of Canel Street. Briefing Outline I.
30” Water Transmission A.
Location of 30” Water Main Break B.
Chronology of Events C.
Status of Repairs II.
36” Wastewater Interceptor Collapse A.
Location of Collapse B.
Chronology of Events C.
Status of Repairs III.
Questions and Answers Chronology of Events March 20, 2004 – Saturday Night Serviceman receives broken water
pipe call at 3:30 p.m. United Water Distribution Crew begins
shutdown at 5:00 a.m. City Engineering contacted to assist with
valve locate at 8:30 a.m. Lyons tank dropped below 3 ft. Pumps shut
off at 9:30 a.m. Paved over isolation valve uncovered and
shut at 12 noon; flow continues. Water routed from north side of town to
service Mercy Hospital at 4:30 p.m. 30” water main shutdown at March 21, 2004 – Sunday Distribution crews continue main break
repairs at various locations. March 22, 2004 – Monday Purchasing Requisition for 30” repair
parts initiated Repair material delivered to site at 7:35
p.m. March 23, 2004 – Tuesday 30” water main repaired at 3:00 a.m. small
leak found. March 24, 2004 – Wednesday Additional failed section of pipe removed
starting at 8:00 a.m. Repairs completed at 2:45 p.m. March 25, 2004 – Thursday Efforts begin to chlorinate main. Tap performed for this process showed main in poor condition. City of Laredo Utilities notified of pipe
condition. Status of Repairs 30” Water Main has been isolated from
distribution system Water service to customers has been
restored. Pipe break has been repaired,
however, exiting pipeline is in poor condition and may rupture if placed back
in service. Alternatives being discussed with the City
Chronology of Events March 19, 2004 – Friday United Water notified of sewer spill at
8100 Mines Road at 4:00 p.m. Wastewater Collection crews found two
manholes overflowing into Manadas Creek within an
hour. Estimated overflow rate was
50,000 gallons/day. The 24” main was flushed downstream;
however, the overflow continued. March 20 & 21, 2004 – Saturday &
Sunday Wastewater Crews determined blockage in a
downstream portion of 36” main 3 miles way was causing the overflow. A 22-foot deep hole was found over the main
at Mall del Norte. Efforts to clear blockage using Vactor Trucks were unsuccessful. Another sinkhole found behind Pep Boys at
Ortiz St. Decision was made to setup
bypass pumping on Monday once vendor opened. March 22, 2004 Two 6” pumps ordered and installed around
noon. Pumps reduced overflow, but
could not pump all of peak daytime flow. March 23, 2004 Two additional 12” pumps were ordered and
installed. The overflow at Mines Road
was stopped at 4:00 a.m. Staff was directed to
cleanup and disinfect
the area as soon as it was dry enough. Status of Repair Bypass pumping is in place Overflow at Manadas
Creek has been stopped United Water has provided scope of work
for contract services to City Heavy utility contractor will be obtained
by City to repair 36” main 2.
Discussion
with possible action to request that the City Manager ask staff to prepare an
amendment to the Land Development Code, Section 24-77, to alter the
minimum lot area for site built homes, specifically Section 24-77.1,
Dimensional Standards to permit the minimum lot area of 4,200 sq. ft. for
single family residential lots in R-1MH zones comparable to the requirements
currently allowed for R-1MH manufactured homes. This amendment would allow
families owning the lots to construct a single family residential unit, thus
increasing the values on the tax roll.
(Co-sponsored by Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr.) Keith Selman, City Planner, gave a
presentation on the request to prepare an amendment to the Land Development
Code Section 24-77.1. He reported that
there are two separate performance standards for lots zoned R1-MH. One standard is for sight built homes and
the other one is for manufactured homes.
He said that the heights of the structures are the same but there are
other variances. Ex: The rear and front yard set backs are
different, area square footage. The
square footage for a manufactured home must be at least 4,200 square feet and
the sight built home must be 4,500 square feet. It may seem like it is conflicting but it
was done by design because the R1-MH sight built home lot is the same as the
smallest R1A lot. Cm.
Mayor Pro Tempore Galo said that this has
been an ongoing discussion throughout the years. He noted that some of the mobile home
subdivisions have outgrown there usefulness and it is time for them to migrate
into a sight built home. He said the
City needs to offer the homeowner a way to grow out of their mobile
home. He said that the developer
should not be left with the decision for lots to be 4,200 square feet because once
he sells the lots he doesn’t worry about future use of the property. Keith Selman, City Planner, said that he
could return to City Council in three months with recommendations to amend
the Land Development Code Book by assisting property owners in the older
subdivisions that have lots with 4,200 square feet and are not allowed to
build site homes. He noted that he
will come back with recommendations of changing the standard for R1MH lots from
4,200 square feet to 4,500 square feet regardless of use. IV. 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 3.
Request
for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code 551.071 (1)(A) & (B) to consult
with
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