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CITY OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING M-2004-R-11 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 Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance. III. ROLL
CALL In attendance: Elizabeth G.
Flores, Mayor Alfredo Agredano, Council
Member, District I Hector Garcia, Council
Member, District II John C. Galo, Mayor
Pro Tempore, District III Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV Johnny Rendon 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, IV. MINUTES Approval
of the minutes of Motion
to approve. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Mayor
Pro Tem Galo was not present. V. COMMUNICATIONS
AND RECOGNITIONS Announcements Cm. Agredano congratulated Council Members Jose A.
Valdez, Jr. and Juan Ramirez as they begin their second term and welcomed Cm.
Johnny Rendon to the City Council. On
Sunday, they placed flags for all the departed Veterans at the Cm. Garcia congratulated Dr. Cecilia Moreno on her
retirement from Cm. Amaya commented on the press conference held
at Cm. Rendon thanked all the voters of Cm. Belmares recognized Judge Oscar Martinez for
his hard work and participation with the St. Patrick’s Church Youth Group at
their fundraiser. He stated that Judge
Martinez has always been a pillar of the community and is always willing to help
the youth of Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. mentioned the Memorial Day
ceremony held at the Cm. Ramirez thanked all the constituents in
District VIII for their hard work and their vote. He stated that in spite of the recount
petition, the election results showed that the voters place their trust in
him to continue to do good work for the district. Mayor Flores mentioned that there is an article in
the Laredo Morning Times Business Journal regarding the City’s bond
rating. She encouraged everyone to
read the news article which mentions that Invitations None. Recognitions a. Recognition
of Malia Watson from the Laredo Public Library on her selection as April
Employee of the Month. Maria Soliz,
Assistant Library Director, stated that Malia Watson is the Manager of the
Technical Services Department. She
mentioned that Ms. Watson not only makes the most of her tremendous technical
services skills, but she also looks for the best way to serve the community
with new library programs and services.
She added that Ms. Watson approaches each task with a caring passion
and recently worked closely with her co-workers to make National Library Week
activities a big success. b. Recognition
of Mayor Flores
and City Council publicly recognized c. Recognition
of Red Raiders football team. Mayor Flores
and City Council presented the players for an outstanding undefeated 2004
winning season and recognizing them as the Champions of the South Valley
Division of the Texas United Football League.
d. Recognizing
Police Investigators Jorge Luna, Jr. and Martin J. Guerra for their
completion of training from the United States Department of Justice/Federal
Bureau of Investigation Basic Bomb Technician Accreditation Course.
Both officers are now fully qualified as certified bomb technicians and will
now be able to respond to any bomb threats received in the city. Mayor Flores and City Council
recognized and congratulated Jorge Luna, Jr. and Martin J. Guerra for their achievement. These officers have gone through 16 weeks
of extensive training in bomb detection and disposal and are qualified as
certified bomb technicians. e. Recognition of City of
Laredo employees and R.E.A.C.H. Committee members for their commitment to
volunteerism in the community by supporting the American Cancer Society and
in promoting awareness, prevention, education, and support in research to
find a cure for cancer. Dan Migura,
Administrative Services Director, reported that the City was recognized by
the American Cancer Society for the fine efforts of the City’s
employees. Pedro Soto, past president
of the American Cancer Society reported that the Relay for Life is the most
important fundraising event for the organization. He mentioned that the City of Communiqués VI. APPOINTMENTS
TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES a.
Appointment
by Mayor Pro Tempore John C. Galo of Mary B. Wyers
to the Citizens Environmental Advisory Committee. Motion to approve. Moved: Cm.
Agredano Second: Cm.
Belmares For: 7 Against: 0
Abstain: 0 b.
Appointment
by Council Member Juan Ramirez of Dr. Michael Yoder to the Parks and
Recreation Committee. Motion to approve. Moved: Cm.
Ramirez Second: Cm.
Belmares For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 VII.
PUBLIC HEARINGS 1.
Public
hearing regarding the proposed substantial amendment
of the 24th, 25th, and 28th Action Year
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) One-Year Action Plans for the
reprogramming of CDBG fund balances totaling $132,000.00. The reprogrammed funds will be used for the
acquisition of an open space/green-space recreational land. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 2. Public hearing concerning
an appeal of the denial order issued on Location: Lot 8 E N ½ of 9-10
Block 70 W. D. Commonly known as: 1219 Petitioner: Jorge O. Gutierrez Locally significant historic landmark Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Mayor Pro Tem Galo joined the meeting at Sally V. Zuck, resident of St. Peter’s Historic
District, spoke against the request denial of this petition. The historical buildings are part of John Keck, Chairperson of the Historic District/Landmark Board stated
that the prime responsibility of the board is to be involved in the requests
for design and review for demolition or alterations of structures in the
three historic districts in Keith Selman, City Planner, mentioned that the request was
two-fold. He stated that the initial
part of the request, which was ultimately approved, was the re-facing of the
windows by detailing the window frames.
The applicant requested to replace the current window frames with a
metal-type material and it would be the same color, and the Landmark Board
did approve that. He provided images
for the City Council to see what the window units would look like. He added that in the department’s e-mail to
the Texas Historical Commission, they did outline to the applicants what was
suitable and the owners stated that the units would not protrude outside the
windows. Tomas Yzaquirre, one of the building owners,
distributed photographs of the window units they want to install in order to
explain how the façade would look. Elsa Ibarra Valdez, a resident of St. Peter’s Historical District,
spoke against the appeal approval. She stated that there is a nationwide drive
and a renewed interest in restoring Motion to permit the building owners to modify the windows as shown on
the photographs provided to City Council. Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 3.
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 effective
date. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 4.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending
the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by decreasing revenues and
expenditures in the amount $20,000.00 in funds from the Texas Department of
Health for the Maternal and Child
Health (MCH-Title V) Program of the City of Laredo Health Department
for the period beginning Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance Introduction: City Council 5.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending
the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by increasing revenues and
expenditures in the amount $20,000.00 in funds from the Texas Department of
Health for the Family Planning Services of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm.
Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm.
Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Ordinance Introduction: City Council 6.
Public hearing and introductory ordinance adding new
Article II [regulation of private premises vendors] to Chapter 18 of the Code
of Ordinances; said Article II defining “private premises vendors”,
regulating them, requiring permits, setting duration of permit, setting fee
of $100.00 for a permit on land owned by permittee
and of $500.00 for a permit on land not owned by permittee,
and providing for penalty for violation of any provision of the regulations;
providing for publication and effective date. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 Carlos Blanco, Jr. asked whether this would affect the minimum wage
earners in the community by requiring that they pay a fee to require a permit
from them. Cm. Belmares stated that this ordinance is not meant to drive the
individuals out of business but it is meant to protect them. He
stated that they created an ordinance that would allow these types of
businesses to prosper. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 2 Abstain: 0 Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. Cm.
Ramirez Ordinance Introduction: City
Council 7. Public
hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept $600.00
in donations and amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 General Fund Annual
Budget by appropriating revenues in the amount of $600.00 in the form of a
donation from Westwind Homes and appropriating
expenditures in the amount of $600.00 for the purchase of food and beverages
for the Indian Sunset Pond Clean Up Campaign that was held Saturday, May 22,
2004. Motion to open the public hearing. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce. Moved: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. Second: Cm. Agredano For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1 Cm.
Belmares Ordinance Introduction: City
Council (Recess) (Press Availability) VIII. INTRODUCTORY
ORDINANCES 8.
Authorizing City Manager to convey on
behalf of City of Laredo, as Trustee, Lots 7 and 8, Block 1299, Eastern
Division, to City of Laredo, for its appraised fair market value of $9,578.00
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 9.
Authorizing City Manager to convey on
behalf of City of Laredo, as trustee, Lots 4 and 5, Block 1299, Eastern
Division, to City of Laredo, for its appraised fair market value of $9,578.00
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 10.
Authorizing
the City Manager execute Easement Document WR# 2137814 with American Electric
Power (AEP) for a 12’ x 750’ easement (9,000 square feet) and right-of-way
out of the 1,259.09 acre tract of the Laredo International Ordinance Introduction: City Council 11.
Authorizing the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents to effectively convey fee simple title to the “Surface
Only”, at its market value of $7,583.18, for certain property described as a
5,924.36 sq. ft. (0.1360 of an acre)
tract of land, more or less, out of that former section of the 2200 block of
Lincoln Street between Eagle Pass Avenue and the Laredo Community College
property line to Millco International, Inc.; said
tract being situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, Webb County,
Texas being generally described in attached Exhibit “A”; and providing for an
effective date. Ordinance
Introduction: City Council IX. FINAL
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #
2004-O-113; # 2004-O-114; # 2004-O-115; # 2004-O-116; # 2004-O-117; #
2004-O-118; # 2004-O-119; # 2004-O-120; # 2004-O-121; # 2004-O-122; #
2004-O-123; # 2004-O-124; # 2004-O-125; # 2004-O-126; # 2004-O-127; #
2004-O-128; # 2004-O-129; # 2004-O-130; # 2004-O-131; and # 2004-O-132. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 12.
2004-O-113
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. Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-113. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-114
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. (As
amended) Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-114. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-115
Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-115. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-116
Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-116. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-117
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.
Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-117. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-118
Amending City of Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-118. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-119
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-119. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-120
Amending the City of Laredo 2003-2004 budget by
increasing the Texas Department of Health‘s share of program income and
expenditures for the Tuberculosis Elimination Program of the City of Laredo
Health Department in the amount of $10,000.00 for the period beginning
September 1, 2003 through August 31, 2004. Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-120. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-121
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-121. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-122
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 Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-122. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-123
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-123. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-124
Amending the City of Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-124. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-125
Approving the public sale of one (1) tract
(surface only) of airport non-aeronautical use land located at the Laredo
International Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-125. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-126
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-126. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-127
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-127. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-128
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-128. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-129
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-129. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-130
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
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-130. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-131
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 Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-131. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 2004-O-132
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 Motion to
adopt Ordinance # 2004-O-132. Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 X. RESOLUTIONS 13.
2004-R-045 Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute an Interlocal Government Agreement between the City of
Laredo, Webb County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety,
Texas Parks and Wildlife Parks Division, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Law
Enforcement Division for a three year period beginning June 1, 2004 and May
31, 2007. The purpose of the
memorandum of understanding is to solidify the area’s law enforcement
agencies’ commitment to assist Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-045. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1 Cm.
Amaya 14.
2004-R-046 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application
with the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice
Division for $1,142,115.00 to fund the Laredo Narcotics Task Force. The City of Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-046. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0
15.
2004-R-048
Amending the City of Laredo International Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-048. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against:
0 Abstain: 0 16.
2004-R-050 Confirming the Mayor’s appointments to the
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Policy Committee. Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-050. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 17.
2004-R-051 Authorizing the acceptance of the water
utility easement, dated May 20, 2004, of a 0.50 acre tract out of the 25.96
acre Diamond Shamrock plat from Valero Operations Logistics, L.P., and the
acceptance of the 454,000 gallon water tank installed thereon by Valero
Logistics Operations, L.P., for which the consideration is the operation and
maintenance of said easement and water tank as part of the City’s water
system. Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-051. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 18.
2004-R-052 Canvassing the results of the Motion to
approve Resolution # 2004-R-052. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XI. MOTIONS 19.
Motion to approve change of day for regular City
Council meeting from Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 20.
Consideration to ratify and approve action by the
City Manager authorizing the issuance of a purchase order to Aventis Pasteur, Inc., through the Texas Department of
Health’s federal contract pricing for the purchase of vaccines for the 2004
flu season in the amount of $39,950.00. Funding is available in the Health
Department budget through program income to compensate for the cost of the
vaccine that will protect those vulnerable persons against the flu and
pneumonia. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 21.
Refund of
property tax to the following taxpayers and companies: a.
A refund in the amount of $617.80 payable to Eva
Garza and Fernando D. Laurel due to an over payment. Account # 553-01491-010. b.
A refund in the amount of $717.16 payable to the
International Bank of Commerce due to a double payment. Account # 104-00193-060. c.
A refund in the amount of $651.63 payable to
Wells Fargo Real Estate Tax Service, LLC due to a double payment. Account # 970-00005-116. d.
A refund in the amount of $1,361.82 payable to
Greg M. Jacobs due to a double payment for the years 2000 & 2001. Account # 946-42000-090. e.
A refund in the amount of $778.78 payable to
Wells Fargo Real Estate Tax Service, LLC due to a double payment. Account # 989-52001-010. f.
A refund in the amount of $3,903.14 payable to
Diamond Shamrock Refinery & Marketing due to a decrease in value
certified by the Appraisal Review Board. Supplement #9 Case
#2002CVQ001130-D2. Account #
9900005-9220911-0. g.
A refund in the amount of $3,231.47 payable to
Diamond Shamrock Refinery & Marketing due to a decrease in value
certified by the Appraisal Review Board. Supplement #9 Case
#2002CVQ000747-D2. Account #
9900005-9220911. h.
A refund in the amount of $2,536.69 payable to Schwan's Sales Enterprises Inc. due to a decrease in
value certified by the Appraisal Review Board. Supplement # 9, Case # 2003-5587. Account # 801-03099-121. i.
A refund in the amount of $1,300.53 payable to
Mercy Hospital of Laredo due to a total exemption certified by the Appraisal
Review Board. Supplement # 10, Cause #
Account # 335-00554-030. j.
A refund in the amount of $618.21 payable to Vaquillas Development Ltd. due to a partial exemption
certified by the Appraisal Review Board.
Supplement # 10, Cause #Account # 900-90321-201. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 22.
Consideration
to authorize TREMCO Incorporated, Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 23.
Consideration to award contract FY04-078 to U.S.
Cellular, These phones are assigned to public safety departments plus City issued
cell phones that are paid with grants or are assigned as department pool
phones. U.S. Cellular is providing the most advantageous proposal for regular
cellular phone service, while Metrocall provided
the most advantageous proposal for cellular phone service with two-way radio
capability. The new contract pricing
will be approximately 48% less than the previous contract period. Motion to approve. Moved:
Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second:
Cm. Agredano For:
8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 24.
Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
contract with Martinez Pharmacy in the amount not to exceed $59,305.00 to
provide public health services to clients of the HIV/AIDS Programs of the
City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 25.
Consideration to award contract FY04-040 to the current provider, JVA’s Investigation & Security Company, Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 26.
Consideration to award contract number FY04-042 to the low bidder,
County Wide Security, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated yearly amount of
$193,168.30 for providing security guard services for the Bridge System,
Civic Center, City Hall, Health Department and Veterans Field. Funding is
available in the respective departmental budgets. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 27.
Consideration to award contract number FY04-084 to the low bidder, Zertuche Construction, Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 28.
Consideration to exercise the renewal contract option for one (1)
additional year for the following annual contracts for repair parts and
service for the heavy equipment fleet, sweepers, motorcycle, and lawn
maintenance: Rush Truck Center of
Laredo, Laredo, Texas (FY02-078) in the estimated amount of $50,000.00;
Industrial Disposal Supply, San Antonio, Texas (FY02-080) in the estimated
amount of $25,000.00; Laredo Harley-Davidson, Inc, Laredo, Texas (FY02-079)
in the estimated amount of $25,000.00; and RPM Parts & Small Engine,
Laredo, Texas (FY02-076) in the estimated amount of $5,000.00. All parts will be purchased on an as
needed basis. The contract vendor for
motorcycle parts, Corpus Christi Harley-Davidson, recently opened a store in Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 29.
Consideration to award contract number FY04-086 to the low bidder, Rob
K Concrete Products, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $49,920.00 for
furnishing the prefabricated concrete rebar, wire mesh and other items needed
for the Chacon Creek tributary drainage project. Funding is available in the
2003 Contractual Obligation Fund. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 30.
Consideration to award contract to sole source vendor, Naztec, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 31.
Authorizing the City Manager to release the partial retainage
of $65,000.00 from the contract with Carter & Burgess, Inc., for the
Chacon Creek Flood Mitigation Plan Project.
The Master Plan was developed to alleviate the flooding problem on
Chacon Creek Watershed. The project is 91% complete. Funding is available in the Environmental
Services Department. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 32.
Adopting a schedule of hearings and proceedings for voluntary and
unilateral annexations for calendar year 2004 in accordance with Section
43.052 of the Texas Local Government Code. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 33.
Ratifying the contract
amendment with Recycle America Alliance for an additional $8,821.27 for a
total amount of $29,137.27. This overage is due to an overwhelming response
by the community for this service. A grant by EPA will pay $20,316.00 and the
additional $8,821.21 will be paid by the City in matching funds. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 34.
Authorizing the City
Manager to execute an extension to the consulting contract between the City
of Laredo and B.W. Zimmerman & Associates for additional consulting
services to project manage and coordinate with the general contractor the
installation of the toll equipment for the El Portal Project. Consulting
contract will not exceed $73,000.00. Funding is available in the
Bridge System Fund. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 35.
Consideration for
approval of amendment No. 5 an increase of $160,000.00 to the professional
services contract with Crane Engineering Corporation, Laredo, Texas, for the
West Laredo CP&L Road extension for additional A/E services to develop an
environmental assessment document in accordance with the Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) guidelines.
Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund - Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 36.
Consideration to approve
acceptance of the CDBG sidewalks city-wide project No. 21 (30 blocks) and
approval of final payment in the amount of $29,845.92 to Triple A Concrete,
Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final contract
amount is $149,874.60. Funding is
available in the Community Development 28th Action Year/2002 Grant
Sidewalks account. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 37.
Consideration to approve
acceptance of the CDBG sidewalks city-wide project No. 24 (30 Blocks) and
approval of final payment in the amount of $62,847.44 to Triple A Concrete,
Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final contract
amount is $129,550.80. Funding is
available in the Community Development 28th Action Year/2002 Grant
Sidewalk account. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 38.
Consideration to award
construction contract to the lowest bidder, Triple A Concrete, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 39.
Consideration to award a
construction contract to the lowest bidder, Triple A Concrete, Inc., Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 40.
Consideration to approve
Change Order No. 1 a net increase of $28,400.00 to the design construction
contract with Petroleum Solutions of McAllen, Texas, for the fueling station
at the City of Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 41.
Consideration for
approval of the release of a partial retainage of
$170,108.47 from the total retainage amount of
$220,108.47 from the construction contract with TJ&T Enterprises, Inc.,
Laredo, Texas, for the Laredo International Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0
Abstain: 0 42.
Consideration for
approval of amendment no. 1 an increase of $82,319.65 to the contract with Freese and Nichols, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas, for the
reconstruction of Taxiways A, D, and G for the Laredo International Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: Abstain: 43.
Consideration for
approval to reject the sole bid submitted by Ramos Industries, Inc., Laredo,
Texas, for the Laredo International Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 44.
Authorizing the City
Manager to amend the 2002 Emergency Shelter Grant contract with Catholic
Social Services by reducing the amount of shelter operation funds from
$60,000.00 to $8,000.00 for a total decrease in the amount of $52,000.00, and
redirecting these funds toward the rehabilitation of the shelter. These changes pertain to the 2002 Emergency
Shelter Grant funds which are made available by the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development. Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 45.
Consideration to award
annual contract number FY04-039 to the low bidder, JJJ International Safety, Motion to
approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 XII. STAFF
REPORTS 46.
A. Report
regarding camera surveillance system to deter illegal activity at City parks
with possible action. Mike Pescador, Roderick Tanner, made the presentation before
City Council. He explained that his
company is based in Motion to use $10,000.00 in discretionary funds for the initial investment
for the purchase of a surveillance system.
Moved: Cm.
Ramirez Second:
Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 1 Abstain: Cm.
Belmares Motion to direct staff to look at the next step to get funding for
these cameras to be installed at the parks. Moved: Cm. Garcia Motion dies for lack of a second.
B. Presentation
regarding the 2004 property tax and debt survey for the State of Motion to table. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 6 Against: Abstain: 0 XIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND
PRESENTATIONS 47.
A. Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia 1. Discussion with possible action on
having a 4th of July fireworks display at Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation
Director, reported that the Parks and Recreation Department will work on
relocating the fireworks show to Lake Casa Blanca. He mentioned that for the past four years,
the fireworks display have been held at Veterans Field along with a range of
activities around Veterans Field including the parade, mini festival, and a
double header baseball game which culminates with the pyrotechnics show. Mayor Flores inquired whether there was
still ample time to move this pyrotechnics show to Lake Casa Blanca. She stated that she would like those
activities to continue at Veterans Field and the Cm. Ramirez stated that the reason that
this event is being held at Veterans Field because there was no celebration
being held for the Fourth of July. He
came up with the idea of distributing ice cream and apple pie to those
attending the baseball game. Cm. Garcia stated that he would like to
consider moving the event for next year being that this fireworks display
should be something to be enjoyed by everyone. By having the event at Lake Casa Blanca
Park, everyone can enjoy the pyrotechnics show. Motion to
move the fireworks display this year to Lake Casa Blanca Park. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm.
Ramirez B. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares 1.
Discussion
with possible action on amendments and enforcement of the City’s sign
ordinance. Cm. Belmares stated that the first half of this
item is an amendment to the ordinance.
There is a move amongst communities to allow the small signs to
announce open houses, weekend events, etc. without a need for a permit. He would like to see if the City would
accommodate this amendment. Keith Selman, City Planner, stated that it is
possible to draft a revision to the ordinance in order to accommodate that
request. He mentioned that they would
need to define where and how these signs will be located on the public
right-of-way. He explained that the
department does not have a team designated towards sign enforcement,
however, they do regulate signage through the issuance of permits and
enforcement of non-conforming signs through citations. 2.
Discussion
with possible action to consider transferring the duties and charge of the AD
HOC Cemetery Board to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee. Motion to do away with the Cemetery Ad Hoc Board
and to transfer the duties and charges of said ad hoc committee to the Parks
and Recreation Advisory Committee. Moved: Cm.
Belmares Second: Cm.
Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 C. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez,
Jr. 1.
Discussion
with possible regarding flooding situation at Indian Sunset. 1.
Discussion with possible action in regards to
railroad situation at La Ladrillera neighborhood. Cm. Ramirez stated that the students and teachers
at Dovalina Elementary have a serious problem with the railroad blocking the
pass. He suggested that the train
needs to cut the train so that pedestrians can go by on Sanchez and
Jefferson. The other problem is that
the conductors leave the engines stalled along the tracks and leave them
running there all night. The residents
have some health concerns due to the smell of the diesel is harmful to the
health of the area residents. Mayor Flores mentioned that the frequent question asked of her in Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. suggested that a Rail Committee meeting be scheduled
soon to address the Cm. Ramirez’s issues and other issues that anyone else
may have. Keith Selman, City Planner, stated that he is scheduling a Rail
Committee meeting in the next few weeks.
He added that they are getting the feasibility report on contract for
the relocation. 2.
Discussion with possible action regarding
proposed water park. Cm. Ramirez stated that the City needs to get in
touch with the Jaime Flores, XIV. EXECUTIVE SESSION The City Council hereby
reserves the right to go into executive session at any time during this
public meeting, if such is requested by the 48. Request for Executive Session pursuant to
Texas Government Code § 551.071 (1)(A)
to consult with Mariagloria
Gonzalez v. the City of for possible
action. Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas
Government Code § 551.071 (1)(A) to
consult with Moved: Cm.
Agredano Second: Cm.
J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced
that no formal action was taken. XV. RECESS AS THE Motion to recess as Laredo City
Council and convene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board. Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 49.
Consideration to award contract FY04-041 to the low bidder, County Wide
Security, Motion to approve. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. J. Valdez, Jr. For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XVI. ADJOURN AS THE Motion to adjourn as the Laredo
Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City Council. Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain:
0 XVII. ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn. Time: Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Galo Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 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 30 and they are true,
complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on _________________________________ Gustavo
Guevara, Jr. City Secretary |