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CITY OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING M-2004-R-10 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS I. CALL TO ORDER With a quorum present, Mayor
Elizabeth G. Flores called the meeting to order. II. PLEDGE
OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Elizabeth G. 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 Eliseo Valdez, Jr., Council
Member, District V Gene Belmares, Council
Member, District VI Jose A. Juan Ramirez, Council
Member, District VIII Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City
Secretary Jaime Flores, City
Attorney Motion to excuse Cm. Amaya. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 IV. MINUTES Approval of the
minutes of Motion to
approve. Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garcia left
the meeting at V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS Announcements
None. Invitations None. Recognitions
a. Presentation of
Certificates of Appreciation from Council Member Eliseo Valdez, Jr. to his
appointees to various committees. Cm. Patricia
Davila, Plaza
Theater Renovation Project Committee Gregorio
Benavidez, Redistricting
Committee Jose Diaz
De Historical
Landmark Board Rogelio
Rodriguez, Planning
and Zoning Commission Robert Ocha, Library
Advisory Committee David
Perez, Parks
& Recreation Committee Tamara Casso, Environmental
Advisory Committee Juan
J. Cruz, Environmental Advisory
Committee Susan Foster, Third
Party Funding Charter
Revision Committee Steve
Jackson, Cemetery
Advisory Board Christopher
Paul Arthur, Board
of Adjustments Javier
Montezuma, Elizabeth
Gil, Tree
Advisory Board Historical
District Landmark Board Mary
Hightower, Beautification
Committee Martha
Dole, Laredo
Women’s Commission Dan
Rodriguez, Vehicles
for Hire Ad Hoc Committee Dr. Carmen Ramirez Rathmell Laredo Women’s
Commission Hilario
Cavazos, III, Transportation
& Traffic Advisory Committee Telecommunications
Advisory Board Theresa
R. Nimchan, Third
Party Funding Committee Richard Perales, Telecommunications
Advisory Board
Communiqués
a. Presentation of the 2003-2004 City of Nelly Alejandro PARD – Cigarroa Nixon Jennifer
Alonzo PARD
– Tarver Nixon Veronica Avalos Cynthia Carmona PARD
– Daniel Chavez Edna Cruz Fire
Department Cigarroa Cindy Faz ASD United
South Viridiana Leyva Community
Development Alexander Kristina Ortiz PARD – Farias United Diego Partida Carlos
Rendon PARD
– Hachar Nixon Annette
Salinas PARD
– Farias Martin Viridiana
Villalobos PARD
– Hachar Nixon Miguel Villarreal Fire
Department United
South Cm. Cm. 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 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 change. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garcia and Cm.
Amaya not present Juan Botello, 2406
Ash, spoke against the zone changes and wants to keep it as an R-1
designation. Ruben
Gonzalez, 2603 Olivia Vela
Gutierrez, 2516 Locust, said that she has resided there for 45 years and was
present to protest the zone change. Motion to close the
public hearing and deny. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2. 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
condominiums on 1.00 acres, as further described by metes and bounds on
attached Exhibit “A” located north of the proposed Shiloh extension and east
of Stone Creek Subdivision; 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. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Jerry O’Brien spoke
in favor of the zone change. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Belmares 3. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by authorizing the amendment of Ordinance 99-O-039, which authorized a
Conditional Use Permit for major auto repair, on the south ½ of Lot 3 and
Lots 4, 5 and 6, Block 197, Eastern Division, located at 4115 Sanders Avenue,
by including tire repair as an additional allowed conditional use; 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 Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ron Whitehawk, representing the developer, spoke in favor of
allowing the change for a major auto repair and include tire repair. Motion to close the
public hearing, introduce, and override with the following amendments: 1. Hours of
operation shall be limited to those between Monday
through Saturday, 2. At least ten (10) percent of the lot area
shall be devoted to the landscaping to be located along the site’s
westernmost or southernmost boundaries.
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 landscaped areas. 4. Seventy-five
(75) percent of any future buildings shall be composed of masonry, glass, or
brick. 5. Inoperative
cars or trucks shall not be allowed. 6. All
vehicles on site as a result of the mechanic/tire shop shall be prked inside the facility at all times. 7. Heavy
equipment or large trucks shall not be allowed. 8. Parking
shall comply with the 9. Any
portion of the site adjoining a residential zone or use shall be divided from
the zone by an opaque fence of at least seven (7) feet high. 10. All
lighting on site must be directed inward and from abutting residential
structures. 11. Signage
shall be limited to that which is permitted by the B-1 zoning district. 12. The
C.U.P. is
issued to Nancy, Maria, and Jose Torres and is nontransferable. 13. The
C. U. P. is restricted to the site plan, exhibit “A”. Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 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 Lots 10, 11 & 12, Block 1704, Eastern Division,
located at 2802 Guadalupe Street, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to
B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning
Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ron Whitehawk spoke on behalf of the applicant who asked to
have the zoning request downgraded from a B-4 to a B-3. He said that the property is currently
zoned B-1. He added that the property
is surrounded by commercial development.
The applicant would like to have an automotive repair shop allowing
him to do light automotive work. He
would not be allowed to do heavy automotive work or automotive painting. He added that the applicant approached the
surrounding residents and no one was in opposition to the shop. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce as a B-3 instead of original B-4 request. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. 5. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 12, Block 988, Eastern Division, located 1802 Corpus
Christi Street, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community
Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended denial of the proposed zone change. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 David and Denise
Rodriguez, property owners, requested approval of the zone changes for use as
a tattoo shop. Motion to close the
public hearing and postpone and allow applicant to apply for a conditional
use permit. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 6. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo by rezoning Lot 11, Block 3, Hilltop Subdivision, Phase II, located approximately
at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Huron Court, from R-3 (Mixed
Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-family District); providing for
publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed
change. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Fred Guerra, with
G. G. Salinas Engineering, spoke in favor and was present to answer
questions. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. Belmares 7. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of
Laredo rezoning Lot 7, Block 1, Alexander Commercial Subdivision, Phase I,
located southeast of the intersection of Del Mar Boulevard and Rocio Drive
from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District);
providing for publication and effective date.
The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the
proposed zone change. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. 8. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute two (2) year
lease agreements for retail space at “El Mercado” located on Hidalgo and
Lincoln Street with the following retail Lessors;
Chez Mauricette, Helados
La Playa and Hot Dog Express; copies of which are provided as exhibits “A”
through “C” and providing for an effective date. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. G. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 9. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 budget by
appropriating an increase in revenues and expenditures in the amount of
$24,672.00 which resulted from the increase in fee for the flu vaccine
approved by City Council on Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 10. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend the FY
2003-2004 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of
$12,926.00 for the Medicaid Administrative Cost (MAC) Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department. This amount
consists of program surplus funds from FY 2002-2003. Motion to open
the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 11. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance amending the City of Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 12. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 budget by
increasing the Texas Department of Health’s share of program income and
expenditures generated by the La Familia Health
Care Program of the City of Laredo Health Department in the estimated amount
of $5,000.00 for the period beginning September 1, 2003 through August 31,
2004. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 13.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo
FY 2003-2004 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount
of $35,450.00 in additional funds from the Texas Department of Health for the
Bio Terrorism Preparedness Program of the City of Laredo Health Department
specifically to enhance laboratory capabilities and smallpox vaccinations for
the period beginning September 1, 2003 through August 31, 2004. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
14. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 budget by appropriating additional
estimated revenues generated by the Women, Infants and Children’s Program and
Nutrition Services of the City of Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 15. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance amending the City of Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 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: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 16. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance approving the public sale of one (1) tract
(surface only) of airport non-aeronautical use land located at the Laredo
International Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 17. Public hearing
and introduction of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo,
Texas, Waterworks and Sewer System Revenue Bonds, Series 2004A, for the
purpose of improving and extending the City's combined Waterworks System and
Sewer System, approving an official statement, authorizing the execution of a
purchase contract, and making provisions for the security thereof, combining
the waterworks system and the sewer system and authorizing amendment to the
city's budget to appropriate such proceeds for purposes authorized herein,
and ordaining other matters relating to the subject. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 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:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 18. Public hearing
and introduction of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo,
Texas International Toll Bridge System Taxable Revenue Bonds, Series 2004,
for the purpose of constructing and improving the pedestrian way for Bridge
of the Americas Bridge No. 1, by constructing building E as entrance to
pedestrian way, the overhead pedestrian way to the administration building
B100 and the entrance to the toll bridge by pedestrians, together with
necessary land acquisition, and other improvements in connection therewith,
approving an official statement, authorizing the execution of a purchase
contract, and authorizing amendment to the City's budget to appropriate such
proceeds for purposes authorized herein, and authorizing and ordaining other
matters related to the subject. Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm.
Ramirez Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 19. Public hearing
and introduction of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo,
Texas combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation, Series 2004,
for the purpose of paying all or a portion of the City's contractual
obligations for the purpose of constructing, repairing and maintaining city
streets for the benefit of the municipal transit department, acquiring,
constructing, improving and equipping surface municipal parking lots in the
city's downtown area, including demolition of existing facilities, and
purchasing refuse trucks and trash cans and other improvements for the Solid
Waste Department, and for the payment of legal, fiscal, architectural and
engineering fees in connection with such projects; authorizing amendment to
the city's budget to appropriate such proceeds for purposes authorized
herein; and approving an official statement; authorizing the execution of a
purchase contract and ordaining other matters relating to the subject. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 20. Public hearing
and introduction of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of City of Laredo,
Texas Waterworks and Sewer System Revenue refunding bonds, Taxable Series
2004B, for the purpose of refunding Waterworks System Revenue Refunding Bonds,
new series, approving an official statement, authorizing the execution of a
purchase contract and the execution of an escrow agreement, and making
provisions for the security thereof, combining the Waterworks and Sewer
System and authorizing amendment to the city's budget to appropriate such
proceeds for purposes authorized herein; and ordaining other matters relating
to the subject. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 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: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 21. Public hearing and
introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a one (1) year
lease agreement between the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation Department
and the South Laredo Girls Softball League for use of a softball field at Motion to open the
public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council 22. Public hearing
and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Capital
Improvement Fund by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of
$110,000.00 donated by the South Texas National Bank of Laredo in order to
fund the installation and activation of a traffic signal on McPherson Road at
Sterling Loop/Tiara Trail. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public
input. Motion to close the
public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Mayor Pro Tem Galo For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance
Introduction: City Council
VIII. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES 23. Authorizing the
City Manager to execute Lease No. DTFASW-04-L-00018 between the City of
Laredo and the United States of America for a parcel of land within the
boundaries of the Laredo International Ordinance Introduction: City Council IX. FINAL Motion to
waive final readings of Ordinance # 2004-O-105, # 2004-O-106, # 2004-O-107, #
2004-O-108, # 2004-O-109, # 2004-O-110, # 2004-O-111, and # 2004-O-112. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-105 Amending the City of creating section 24-57, “Green Space
Preservation,” and amending the City of definitions
relating to Green Space Preservation; providing for severability,
publication and effective date. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-105. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-106 Amending
the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and
expenditures in the amount of $2,000.00 in additional funds for a grant total
of $22,000.00 from the University of Arizona for the Border Vision Fronteriza (BVF) 2:
Community Health Workers for Children’s Health Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department, for the period beginning September 14, 2003,
through September 13, 2004. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-106. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-107
Authorizing the City Manager to enter into agreement with Texas Parks
and Wildlife to accept a grant in the amount of $55,380.00 with a 20% local
match for the construction of the Chacon Creek Trail Phase II and amend the
City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004 Capital Improvements Projects Fund annual
budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $90,380.00
for the construction and development of Phase II of the Chacon Creek Hike and
Bike Trail. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-107. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-108 Amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-108. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-109 Amending
the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Bridge System Construction Fund by
appropriating $750,000.00 for the Bridge II expansion project. Funding will
be provided by appropriating a draw down of $370,531.00 from the construction
fund opening balance and a transfer in from operating fund in the amount of
$379,469.00. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-109. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-110
Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract by and on behalf of
the City of Laredo as Zone Grantee of Foreign Trade Zone No. 94 Site 6 and specifically
authorizing the City Manager to enter into operations agreement with Ravisa Distribution Center, as Zone Site Operator for
approximately 5,000 square feet of activated space and 2,150 square feet of
yard space located at 13485 South Unitec Drive, Unitec Industrial Park Foreign Trade Zone Site 6 and
authorizing the City Manager to execute said agreement. Providing activation, administrative and
transaction fees to the City and providing for an effective date. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-110. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-111
Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to
effectively to convey to Jesus Padilla, fee simple title to the “Surface Only”
of certain property described as being a 3,544.6830 square feet or 0.081
acres, more or less, parcel of land, at its market value of $5,300.00 and
being situated in Survey 1019, Abstract 62, City of Laredo, Webb County
Texas; as described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and
B; and providing for an effective date.
Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-111. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-112 Amending
Chapter 19, “Motor Vehicles and Traffic” Article VIII; Stopping, Standing or
Parking, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo: Specifically Section 19-364, Restricted
Parking Areas, establishing a “No Parking Anytime/Tow Away Zone” on the east
side of the 11000 block of McPherson Road between Nafta
Street and Grand Central Boulevard, within city limits of Laredo; providing
for severability, effective date and publication. Motion
to adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-112. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 X. RESOLUTIONS 25. 2004-R-038
Releasing the buffer zone agreement of Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-038. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 26. 2004-R-041
Authorizing the City Manager to execute two documents entitled lien
holders’ subordination to right-of-ways and utility easements the purpose of
which is to subordinate the listed tax judgment liens from those parts of the
lots to which the tax judgments pertain, which parts have been acquired by
Webb County for right of ways in specified Colonias for street improvements. Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-041. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 27. 2004-R-042 Accepting
the donation of one utility easement from Juan Estrada and Pedro Estrada, for
the right of way acquisition, Laredo Ranchettes,
Inc. This being a strip of land
generally 30 feet in width, containing 6,829.06 square feet or 0.157 of an
acre, more or less, and being situated in porcion
32, abstract 296, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, and described by metes
and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B. Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-042. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 28. 2004-R-043 Accepting
the donation of one utility easement from Luz Olivia Gonzalez for the Pueblo
Nuevo Subdivision easement acquisition project. This being a 0.2910 acre,
more or less, parcel, which is out of lot 6, block 10, Pueblo Nuevo Subdivision,
described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B. Motion to
approve Resolution 2004-R-043. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against:
0 Abstain: 0 29. 2004-R-044 Authorizing
the use of surplus proceeds from the City of Laredo - Public Property Motion
to approve Resolution 2004-R-044. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XI.
MOTIONS 30. Approving the
selection of consultant Cook-Joyce, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 31. Consideration to
award contract FY04-045 to Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 32. Consideration to
award annual contract FY04-079 to the low bidder, Nick Benavides, Laredo,
Texas, in the amount of $108,108.00 for Phase I and CGS Specialty Services,
Hallsville, Texas, in the amount of $51,437.54 for Phase II of the Chacon
Creek Re-vegetation Project. Funding
is available in the Environmental Services Department budget. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 33. Consideration to
award annual contract number FY04-071 to the low bidder meeting
specifications, Galls, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 34. Consideration to
award contract number FY03-092 to the low bidders, Precision Delta
Corporation, Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 35. Authorizing the
selection of Hanson Wilson Incorporated as a consultant and authorizing staff
to enter into negotiations with the selected consultant for the development
of the Laredo Rail Line Relocation Feasibility Study. The Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO) has budgeted $60,000.00 for this project using Federal Planning Grant
(PL112) funds. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 36. Consideration to
authorize the City Manager to donate eight (8) surplus law enforcement
vehicles to Motion to table
for next meeting. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 37. Approving the
monthly adjustments to the tax roll.
The amount to be adjusted for April 2004 represents an increase of
$240,294.75. These adjustments are
determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders. Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 38. Consideration for
approval to award a construction contract to the lowest responsible bidder
meeting requirements of the project for the sidewalk construction project to
cross under Lafayette Street east side at Zacate Creek Bridge. Funding is available in the Motion to approve and award to J & S Services, Inc. in the
amount of $47,000.00. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XII. GENERAL COUNCIL
DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
39. A. Request
by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores 1. Special presentation to City Council Member
Eliseo Valdez, Jr. for his seven (7)
years of service in Planning
and Zoning Commission and eight (8)
years of service as Council Member for
District V. The Mayor read the following letter: “Today we say goodbye to a great Council
Member, but most importantly a good friend.
Eliseo Valdez, Jr. has represented his district well. When faced with a redistricting challenge,
he took it up in a minute as he always does by quietly getting informed and
quietly making changes for the betterment for the people in those new
neighborhoods, and those people in the new business sections. Several years ago, many of us in this room
watched Council Meetings deteriorating badly and conduct expressed that
should not be tolerated in a business meeting. During this time, Council Member
B. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares 1. Discussion with possible action on
sidewalks on International and Motion to
use discretionary funding from Cm.
Belmares for sidewalks on International and Moved:
Cm. Belmares Second:
Cm. Ramirez For:
6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
flooding on Whitewood. Motion to
instruct the City Manager to place the item back on the agenda at the first
meeting in June. Moved: Cm.
Belmares Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Request by Council
Member Juan Ramirez 1. Discussion with possible action on removing
the sewer plant from downtown. Cm. Ramirez mentioned a motion that he made at
the November 3, 2003 City Council meeting which instructed staff to research
the possibility of removing the Zacate Creek Sewer Plant from the downtown
area. He expressed dissatisfaction
with the odor that emanates from the sewer plant. He noted that he would use $10,000 of his
discretionary funds for a solution. Pablo
Martinez, Utilities Department, reported that staff has reviewed the
feasibility studies on removal, rehabilitation, and corrosion control
projects for the Zacate Creek Sewer Plant.
The report indicates that the appropriate measures would be to begin
expansion of other sewer locations, minimize the use of the downtown plant,
and rehabilitate the remaining sewer plant.
The cost to expand surroundings plants is $8.25 million dollars and
the cost to relocate the Zacate Creek Sewer Plant is $32 million
dollars. Mayor Pro
Tempore Galo asked the City Manager to expound on the continued illegal taps
in the downtown district. He said that
there are individuals who connect their sewage into the City’s drainage
system which causes horrific odor for the downtown area. Motion to
create an ordinance allowing the City of Moved: Cm.
Ramirez Second: Cm.
J. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2. Discussion with possible action regarding
lease agreement with Rio Grande Plaza Hotel. 3. Discussion with possible action on
repairing sidewalks on Cm. Ramirez expressed his desire to upgrade the
sidewalks on 4. Discussion with
possible action on establishing a park in the San Francisco Javier
neighborhood. Horacio De
Leon, Park Director, reported that there is a project that is being
undertaken by the City to compliment the neighborhood. 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 40. Request for
Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order
to deliberate on the value of, and the possible purchase of real property
North of Fort McIntosh, in the proximity of the Rio Grande River, 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, and direction to staff. Motion to
postpone indefinitely. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 41. Request for
Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order
to deliberate on the value of, and the possible purchase of real property
North of the Laredo Water Treatment Plant, in the proximity of the Rio Grande
River, 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, and direction to
staff. Motion to go
into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in
order to deliberate on the value of, and the possible purchase of real
property North of the Laredo Water Treatment Plant, in the proximity of the
Rio Grande River, 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, and direction
to staff. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 After Executive
Session, the Mayor announced that no formal action was taken. Motion that the
City Manager be instructed to negotiate and acquire
the following property in an amount not to exceed $130,000.00 plus incidental
expenses (tax certificates, escrow fees, recording fees, copies): All of Block 712 situated in the Western
Division of the City of Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XIV. ADJOURNMENT SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA I. COMMUNICATIONS AND
RECOGNITIONS Recognitions a. Awarding the Mayor’s Golden Key to Danny’s
Restaurant on McPherson. Mayor
Flores awarded the Mayor’s Golden Key to Danny’s Restaurant for demonstrating
community pride. She said that Danny’s
Restaurant serves delicious food and has eight locations for the citizens of b. Recognizing United
South High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC for participating at the National
High School Drill Team Championships in South Lady Panthers 1st
Place – Commander’s Trophy – Cadet Colonel Maxie
Montano South Lady Panthers South
Panther Rifles Commander: Cadet Colonel Maxie
Montano Cadet Lieutenant Ruben Baldazo Cadet lance
Corporal Jeanette Alfaro Cadet
Lance Corporal Jaime Aleman Cadet Sergeant
Celeste Arcibar Cadet
First Lieutenant Rolando Bernal Cadet Staff
Sergeant Maricela Barajas Cadet
Sergeant Major Juan Garcia Cadet Lance
Corporal Idalia Benavides Cadet First Lieutenant Edar
Leza Cadet First
Lieutenant Iris Elioza Cadet First Lieutenant Jesus Loyo Cadet Captain Julia
Gonzalez Cadet
First Sergeant Pedro Martinez Cadet Corporal Mariza Mendoza Cadet
First Lieutenant Diego Otero Cadet First
Sergeant Jenny Ramirez Cadet
First Lieutenant Mike Palacios Cadet Sergeant Maricela Ramirez Cadet lance
Corporal Israel Palencia Cadet Lance Corporal Abigail Rodriguez Cadet Gunnery Sergeant A. Ramirez Cadet First
Lieutenant Kristal Rodriguez Cadet Lance Corporal H. Saldana Cadet Captain Anna
Solis Cadet
Staff Sergeant Juan Trevino Cadet First
Sergeant Ednna Solis Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Jorge
Vasquez c. Recognizing
Valedictorians and Salutatorians of Valedictorian Salutatorian United High School Federico
Lozano, Jr. Bryan Jerry
Carroll United Cigarroa
High School Jessica Castro Cynthia Velasco 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 pursuant to his
or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult privately with
his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out of
such item. III. STAFF REPORT 1. Staff report regarding the Mayor Flores
read a letter that is to be sent to State Representative Richard Raymond as
follows: “Dear Representative Raymond: I am writing you on behalf of the City Council of A question has arisen in In addressing the issue, the LISD obtained a legal
opinion from their attorney. That
opinion was studied by the The City Council is working with the School Board to
facilitate a solution, however, Council can only act
in conformity with applicable law. The
fact is that the School board is in a situation where it must obtain title as
soon as possible in order to enable a sale of bonds to finance badly needed
school construction on the subject sites.
Additionally, the School Board also wishes to have the properties
donated, not sold to them. The issue with which we request your assistance is
obtaining an Attorney General’s opinion is therefore, which opinion is
correct? In a nutshell, may we the
governing body of the city of We thank you in advance for your assistance in
obtaining the Attorney General’s guidance with the interpretation of the
applicable state statutes and the Jaime Flores,
IV. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn. Time: Moved: Cm. E. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify
that the
above and foregoing is a true and correct copy of the minutes contained in
pages 01 to 29 and they are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the
City Council meeting held on _________________________________ Gustavo
Guevara, Jr. City
Secretary |