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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2004-R-018 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 September 27, 2004 5:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary called the meeting to order in the absence of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore.
Motion to appoint Cm. John C. Galo as temporary chairman.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Cm. Galo led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In attendance: Alfredo Agredano, Council Member, District I Hector Garcia, Council Member, District II John C. Galo, Council Member, District III Johnny Rendon Council Member, District V Gene Belmares, Council Member, District VI Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Council Member, District VII Juan Ramirez, Council Member, District VIII Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary Larry Dovalina, City Manager Cynthia Collazo, Deputy City Manager Jaime Flores, City Attorney
Motion to excuse Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores and Cm. Johnny Amaya.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IV. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
None.
Invitations
None.
Recognitions
a. Recognition of Wells Fargo Bank, Texas, N.A. as a Gold Sponsor of the Miss Texas USA Pageant.
Nick Reyna, Director of the Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, announced that Adalberto G. Nava, Senior Vice President for Wells Fargo Bank was present to accept the Certificate for being a Gold Sponsor of the Miss Texas USA Pageant.
Cm. Galo presented Adalberto G. Nava, Senior Vice Present of Wells Fargo Bank, Texas, N. A. a Seven Flags Certificate of Recognition for their support in promoting the first Miss Texas USA Pageant by enhancing tourism, promoting Laredo, and serving as a Gold Sponsor.
Communiqués
Cm. Agredano thanked the City of Laredo Traffic Department and the Texas Department of Transportation for installing lights at the entrance of Cielito Lindo and at the South Campus of the Laredo Community College. He also thanked the El Metro Department for implementing a bus route for Cielito Lindo and the South Campus of Laredo Community College.
Cm. Garcia wished Cm. Jose Valdez a Happy Birthday.
Cm. Valdez thanked the City of Laredo Police Department for their quick response in assisting a constituent that had questions about the neighborhood watch program.
Cm. Ramirez reminded the general public that the deadline to register for the November 2, 2004 election is October 4, 2004.
Cm. Galo thanked Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, for coordinating, installing, and completing the light project at Cielito Lindo Subdivision and the South Campus of Laredo Community College. He said that the Cielito Lindo Subdivision, college campus, and fire station are a giant boost for South Laredo. He also advised the viewing public that the City of Laredo Public Works Department is doing a fantastic job to meet the demands of the families that need their branches picked up. He explained that the recent rain and the fact that the landfill is not operating at 100% has caused a slight delay in their scheduling. He went on to say that he recently attended a National Alliance for Security and Trade meeting in Washington D. C. He said that the Alliance is operating on the premise of analyzing the U. S. VISIT and the effect that it will have on the border economy. The response from the Department of Homeland Security has been very slow which causes the Alliance concern because the U. S. VISIT will allegedly be implemented in the largest 50 inland ports in the United States. The Department has not advised the Alliance on how they plan to implement the U. S. VISIT. He encouraged the private sector to take notice because people in Washington are making decisions that will affect their businesses without their input or representation.
John Castro, spokesperson for the Stop Dovalina Campaign, proposed that the Laredo City Council conduct an official investigation in the possible illegal expenditures by City Manager, Larry Dovalina.
Cm. Galo explained to John Castro that Council understands that he is requesting an investigation and he does not need to state allegations that may or may not be true.
He asked Cm. Ramirez to consider placing the item on the next City Council Agenda for possible action.
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, advised Council that the City Council may not discuss items that are not on the agenda.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, indicated that he has clarified the charges on the credit card to the City Council. He acknowledged an invoice that states that he charged liquor but explained that the expenditures were not for his consumption. He emphasized the fact that no city tax money was used for the charges. In fact, donations were solicited for the Washington trip to pay for all the expenditures. He added that John Castro’s allegation of using the credit card for adult entertainment is not only an insult to him and his family but is a nameless acquisition of which he has no proof.
V. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
None.
VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 7, Block 8, Santa Rita Subdivision, Unit XI, located at 302 Lope de Vega Drive, from R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area 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. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Prada Development, asked Council to consider sending the item back to the Planning and Zoning Commission so the property owner can present his plans for a Conditional Use Permit.
Vanessa Cordova, a resident in the area, spoke against the zone change request and presented additional signatures of residents that are equally opposed.
Motion to close the public hearing and send back to Planning & Zoning Commission.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 34.4753 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located south of Santander Drive and west of Cuenca Drive, from R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area 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. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, speaking on behalf of Prada Development, explained that his client has not had sufficient time to explain his entire design to the Planning and Zoning Commission. He asked Council to defer the item.
Motion to close the public hearing and send back to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 4.21 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located south of Don Camilio Boulevard, from R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Prada Development, asked for Council’s support to amend the application to a B-1. He said that there is an existing B-3 that is well established in the area and he believes that a B-1 will suffice to provide for the neighborhood type of commercial activity. The sight is immediately adjacent to the Laredo Community College campus and the B-1 will allow for a commercial pattern which has already been established.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Belmares
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 3.0 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located west of Cuenca Drive, from R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Prada Development, asked for Council’s support for the proposed zone change. He said that he believes that it will lend its support to the establishment and to the growth of the Laredo Community College campus.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Agredano
5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1, Block 339, Western Division, located at 1919 Garza Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and postpone.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning the north 92.88 feet of Lot 1 and the north 92.88 feet of the west 22.8 feet of Lot 2, Block 340, Eastern Division, located approximately at 701 Kearney Street, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-O (Residential/Office 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. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Michael Dickerson asked for approval from the City Council.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez 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 by rezoning 8.12 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A.” located approximately south of Del Mar Boulevard, from R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Rendon
8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 6.34 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located south of Del Mar Boulevard, from R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Agrerdano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Rendon
9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a detention facility on 150 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located north of Rio Bravo on Hwy 83; 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. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Carlos Mejia, Mejia Engineering Company, representing the applicant asked for the Council support in agreeing with the recommendation of the Planning and zoning commission.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Belmares
10. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 15 and 16, Block 2132, Eastern Division, located at 604 South Meadow Avenue, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ron Whitehawk addressed the Council on behalf of the applicant. He displayed a map of the proposed zone change. He explained that the lot has two dilapidated structures and is zoned B-1. He explained that one of the structures will be demolished and the other structure will be remodeled and converted to office space. The applicant would like to improve the area by upgrading the property to a small auto business. The only property that abuts the lot is zoned commercial. He asked Council to consider changing the zone from a B-1 to a B-3 and override the recommendations of the Planning and Zoning because he has sent petitions to the surrounding neighbors and there were no objections.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as a B-3 and override the recommendations of the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Rendon
11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1-20, Block 22 and those portions of Lots 1-15, Block 23 and Lot 21, Block 22, Santa Fe Subdivision, Unit IX, located south of Santa Martha Boulevard and east of Organo Boulevard, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1MH (Single-Family Manufacturing Housing 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. Garcia For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Belmares
12. Second Public hearing and introductory ordinance granting to Proviron, Inc., and its successors, or assigns, the easements, rights, privileges, and franchise to construct, lay, maintain, and operate pipelines and gas mains in, under, over, across, and along present and future streets, alleys, public thoroughfares and public grounds of the City of Laredo, and to use said properties for the purpose of transporting, distributing, and selling gas (natural, artificial or mixed) for all purposes for which gas is or may be used by the City and its inhabitants, and to any other person or persons; providing for the manner of acceptance of this franchise by Proviron, Inc., of the rights and privileges granted by this franchise; further fixing and ordering rates to be charged by Proviron, Inc. to residential and commercial customers; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Richard Morales, Jr., on behalf of Proviron, Inc, announced that he was present to answer questions and he asked for the Council’s approval.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council 13. Public hearing and introductory ordinance establishing Keep Laredo Beautiful, a non- profit organization, and approving the articles of incorporation and bylaws thereof.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
14. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2003 – 2004 fiscal year budget for the 2003 Certificate of Obligation Fund by transferring $58,000.00 from the Fire Training Facility Fund and appropriating $58,000.00 for the awarding of the construction contract for the Cielito Lindo Fire Station, and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
15. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $134,342.00 in funds from the Texas Department of State Health Services and $19,332.00 in Program Income for the La Familia Health Care Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
16. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $81,751.00 in funds from the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Family Planning Services of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005, and amend the City of Laredo’s FTEs.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
17. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $413,077.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Public Health Preparedness and Epidemiology Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
18. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept a supplemental overtime award from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the amount of $4,000.00 and amend the FY 2003 – 2004 City of Laredo Budget by $4,000.00. The purpose is to reimburse cost for overtime incurred by the Laredo Police Department in providing resources of 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. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council 19. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $85,916.00 in additional funds, totaling $171,683.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Immunization Action Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the grant period of January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2004.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
20. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $205,860.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services (formerly Texas Department of Health) and $9,530.00 in Program Income for the Tuberculosis Elimination Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
21. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $21,657.00 in funds from Texas Department of State Health Services for the Laredo Obesity Prevention and Control Program (LOPAC) of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
22. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount $347,956.00 in funds from the Texas Department of State Health Services and $43,345.00 in Program Income for the Maternal and Child Health (MCH-Title V) Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004, through August 31, 2005, and amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2003-2004 FTE’s.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council 23. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 32, “Vehicles for Hire” ”, Article II; Taxicabs, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo: specifically Sections 32-20 transfer of operating authority, Section 32-22 initial applications for annual permit, Section 32-23 inspection of initial applications, Section 32-29 suspension & revocation, Section 32-33 substitute or replace taxicabs, Section 32-35 application, Section 32-36 investigation, Section 32-37 term & renewal, Section 32-42 driver lists to be maintained and Section 32-71 taximeters required, providing severability and for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Abstain: 0 Against: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council VII. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
24. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with United Exports Trading Association (U.E.T.A.) of Texas, Inc., for approximately 2,656.25 square feet comprised of all of Lot Numbers NINE-B (9B), EIGHT-B (8B), SEVEN-B (7B), and the West 45.82 feet of Lot Number SIX-B (West 45.82 of 6B) in Block TWENTY-TWO (22), in the Western Division of the City of Laredo.
1. Lease term is for one (1) year commencing on June 18, 2004 and ending May 31, 2005. 2. Monthly rent will be $3,000.00. 3. City of Laredo may terminate this lease within ninety (90) days written notice.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
25. Closing as public easement that section of Garfield Street between Bartlett and Jarvis Avenues situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas, and providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the final readings of Ordinance # 2004-O-205, # 2004-O-207, # 2004-O-208, # 2004-O-209, # 2004-O-210, # 2004-O-211, # 2004-O-212, # 2004-O-213, # 2004-O-214, # 2004-O-215, # 2004-O-216, # 2004-O-217, # 2004-O-218, # 2004-O-219, # 2004-O-220, # 2004-O-221, # 2004-O-222, # 2004-O-223, # 2004-O-224, # 2004-O-225, and # 2004-O-226.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. 2004-O-205 Amending the City of Laredo’s Subdivision Ordinance, Appendix B of the Code of Ordinances, Chapter II, Section 2-3.2, entitled Subdivision Plat Submittal Requirements, by requiring a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) for final plats located within areas of special flood hazard, Section 2-3.7, entitled Plat Recordation, by requiring plats recorded in areas of special flood hazard to illustrate existing and proposed floodplain lines, and Section 2-4, entitled Performance Bonds, by including security in lieu of construction for properties within the floodplain where a map revision is proposed; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-205.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2004-O-207 Amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2003-2004 General Fund Annual Budget to appropriate revenues and expenditures in the amount of $100,000.00 for attorney fees paid to De Anda Law Firm. Expenditures will only be incurred and disbursed if the revenue is collected by the Tax Department.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-207.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-208 Authorizing the City Manager to accept $33,000.00 in contributions and amending the City of Laredo FY 2003 - 2004 Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Annual Budget by appropriating revenues of $33,000.00 in the form of a Miss Texas USA Gold Sponsorship from Wells Fargo Bank in the amount of $30,000.00 and a Miss Texas USA General Sponsorship contribution from H.E.B. in the amount of $3,000.00, and appropriating expenditures in the amount of $33,000.00 for Miss Texas USA expenses.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-208.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-209 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a budget amendment to amend the Transit Systems operating budget by decreasing the State operating grant contribution, State Project No. 51422F7053, for FY 2003-2004 from $1,000,000.00 to $783,869.00, and increasing the sales tax match for operating expenses from $3,923,492.00 to $4,139,623.00 and providing for grant funds to be deposited in the City of Laredo Transit Fund.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-209.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-210 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Annual Budget in the Capital Improvements Funds by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $40,000.00, which are being donated by Paul Young Properties, LTD., in order to fund the installation and activation of a traffic signal on U.S. Hwy. 59 at Casa Blanca Road and the entrance to Paul Young Auto Mall and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget. Total contribution from Paul Young Properties, LTD., for this project is $120,000.00.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-210.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-211 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2003 – 2004 Airport Construction Budget and Airport Operations Budget to recognize additional revenues received from the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program for Grant Project No. 3-48-0136-42-04 in the amount of $5,449,747.00 for the purpose of rehabilitating Taxiways and for rehabilitating a portion of the west side apron at the Laredo International Airport and to recognize the local match of $286,829.00 from the Airport Operations, by which the transfer out and revenues will be appropriated on the Airport Operations Fund as a result of additional land sale revenues. Authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget amendment; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-211.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-212 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $25,000.00 in funds ($21,000.00 in grant funds and $4,000.00 in-kind) from the US- Mexico Border Health Commission in coordination with the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) for the Border Binational Health Week of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning August 17, 2004, through November 30, 2004.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2004-0-212.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-213 Amending the FY 2003-2004 Annual Budget for the South Texas Regional 911 System Fund by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $14,977.00. The Commission on State Emergency Communication provided a subsequent
allocation to the South
Texas funds for installing Mapped ALI at the Webb County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-213.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-214 Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances as follows: Chapter 2, Article II, Division 6 (Pay Administration), Section 2-87.7 (12)(a), providing for a cost of living adjustment increase of 2.3%, except as otherwise stated in any collective bargaining agreement; providing for an effective date of September 26, 2004.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-214.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-215 Adopting a new health rate structure by increasing all medical contribution amounts by five percent (5%) for the City of Laredo and for all persons covered under the City of Laredo’s Medical Plan unless otherwise provided in a collective bargaining agreement and providing for an effective date of October 1, 2004.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-215.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-216 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2003 - 2004 Health and Benefits Fund Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $1,200,000.00 respectively. The revenues are from insurance reimbursement from Stop Loss Carrier for medical claims paid by the city in excess of $100,000.00. The expenditure line item for medical claims will be increased by the same amount.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-216.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-217 Adoption of the Annual Budget for Fiscal Year 2004-2005; appropriating the estimated revenues, expenditures and balances reported therein for the year beginning October 1, 2004 and ending September 30, 2005, consistent with the financial plan described in said Annual Budget; and authorizing the City Manager to implement said Annual Budget.
Motion to eliminate $9,000 that was to be allocated for the Washington Celebration Association Museum and transfer $8,000 to the Chamber of Commerce Cola Blanca and $1,000 to the Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to transfer the funds in the General Fund allocated for the Rio Grande International Study Center ($7,500) to the Laredo Veteran’s Coalition. The second part to the motion is to eliminate $1,688 from Life Downs to Special Olympics. Finally, to transfer the funds of $2,813 that was appropriated for the Laredo Independent School District Crimestoppers, to Club Olympia.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Valdez For: 5 Against: 2 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez Cm. Belmares
Chairperson Galo voted in favor of the motion, so the motion carries.
Motion to transfer the funds allocated for the Girls Scouts Paisano Council which is $3,750 to Casa De Misericordia and transfer the funds appropriated ($5,625) for the Laredo NHS Incorporated to the Laredo Webb County Food Bank.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-217 as amended.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-218 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Webb County for approximately 2,378 square feet constituting Building No. 1228 located at 4704 Naranjo Street at the Laredo International Airport. Lease term is for one (1) year commencing on August 1, 2004 and ending July 31, 2005 and may be extended for one (1) year ending July 31, 2006. However, it is agreed by the parties that lease may be terminated by either party during the primary or extension term of this lease upon giving a ninety (90) written notice from the party terminating to the other. Monthly rent shall be $1,725.00 and will be adjusted annually during the primary and extension term of this lease according to changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI); providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-218.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-219 Closing as a public easement a tract of land containing 0.04 acres (1,853 sq. ft.) more or less, out of the 2900 block of Stone Avenue between Frost and Lyon Streets being adjacent to the East Boundary line of Lot 4, Block 678, Eastern Division of the City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, said parcel of land is being encroached upon by the improvements of the abutting property as described on attached “Exhibit A” and authorizing the sale of the “Surface Only” of said parcel of land at the market value of $4,633.00 and authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey fee simple title to Carlos E. Ramirez and providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-219.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-220 Designating as a one-way westbound the 700 Block of Eistetter Street, between Logan Avenue and Ryan Street, and as a one-way southbound the 4200 Block of Logan Avenue, between Ryan Street and Eistetter Street, to be effective during the peak hours of 7:00 A.M. to 8:30 A.M. and 2:30 P.M. to 4:30 P.M., Monday thru Friday, during school days, providing for the installation of appropriate signs to indicate one-way traffic in the designated direction and the specified hours and providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-220.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-221 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement between the City of Laredo, as Lessor and Clemente M. Bedia, as Lessee for approximately 624.77 sq. ft. of building space to be used as a Woman, Infant and Children (W.I.C.) Food Store at the area commonly known as 2300 Saltillo, part of the Mario Tijerina Park site, for a term of one year at a monthly rental rate of $360.00 per month.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-221.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-222 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a cattle grazing lease agreement with A/C Cattle Co., Laredo, Texas, for approximately 220 acres of underdeveloped land located in Northwest Laredo in the Pinto Valle Area, next to the International Fire Training / Public Safety facility for cattle grazing. Lease term is for three (3) years commencing on October 1, 2004 and ending September 30, 2007, and may be extended for two (2) one year terms; the annual rent shall be $1,320.00; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-222.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-223 Amending the City of Laredo FY 2003-2004 Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $35,000.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services (formerly Texas Department of Health) for the Office of Border Health: Buena Vida Project of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2004 through August 31, 2005.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2004-0-223.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-224 Providing for the adoption of a tax rate of $0.637000 per $100.00 value with a Maintenance and Operation rate of $0.508677 per $100.00 value and an Interest and Sinking fund rate of $0.128323 per $100.00 value and for the levy and the collection of General and Special Ad Valorem Taxes for the City of Laredo for the Tax Year 2004 and the Fiscal Year 2004 - 2005.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2004-0-224.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-225 Closing as public easements those sections of Arkansas Avenue between Napoleon and Boulanger Streets; and Bismark Street between Louisiana and New York Avenues both situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, and providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2004-0-225.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2004-O-226 Authorizing the City Manager to convey to Laredo Independent School District (1) Blocks 972 & 989, Western Division, & Blocks 301, 1399, 1503, 810, 1728, 302, 1400, 801, 1622, & 1504, Eastern Division and (2) the following closed streets: (a) Seymour Avenue between Green Street & Mercer Street; (b) Loring Avenue between Green Street & Mercer Street; (c) Milmo Avenue between Clark Street & Musser Street; (d) Gustavus Street between Martin Avenue & Texas Avenue; (e) Maryland Avenue between Clark Boulevard & O’Kane Street; & (f) Arkansas Avenue between Bismark Street & Napoleon Street; & providing for effective date. (As Amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance #2004-0-226.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. RESOLUTIONS
27. 2004-R-093 Authorizing the City Manager to submit and to accept, if offered, a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation under the Routine Airport Maintenance Program in the amount of $30,000.00 for the purpose of airside and landside maintenance at the Laredo International Airport. The grant, if offered, will occur after October 1, 2004; therefore, the City’s fifty (50%) percent local match for this project in the amount of $30,000.00 would be available in the Airport Construction Fund under the 2004 – 2005 Fiscal Year Routine Airport Maintenance account.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-093.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. 2004-R-094 Authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute the FY 2005 Section 5307 Urban Transportation Grant Agreement No. URB 0501(22), State Project No. 51522F7053 from the Texas Department of Transportation in the total amount of $729,717.00; and providing for grant / contract funds to be deposited in the City of Laredo Transit Fund Account.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2004-R-094.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. 2004-R-095 Accepting the donation of one utility easement from Trinidad Ramirez, Victor Luis Ramirez, David Rene
Ramirez, Veronica Martha Ramirez, Richard Hill, and Manuel Enrique Ramirez,
for the extension of utility services lines to the Laredo Ranchettes
Subdivision. This being a strip of land 30.00 feet in width, containing
22,721.24 square feet of 0.522 of an acre, more or less, and being situated
in porcion 32, abstract 296, Webb County, Texas, and described by metes and
bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B. Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-095.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. 2004-R-096 Authorizing the City Manager to accept (9) video cameras, for official police use, being awarded from the Texas Department of Public Safety through Senate Bill 1074/Articles 2.131 et seq. of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-096.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. 2004-R-097 Authorizing the City Manager to execute the renewal of a clinical affiliation agreement between the City of Laredo Fire Department and Laredo Medical Center. Laredo Fire Department provides its emergency medical technicians and paramedic students with clinical training available at the Laredo Medical Center.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-097.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. 2004-O-101 Approving a basic cable tier channel realignment proposed by Time Warner Cable, the City of Laredo’s only non-exclusive franchise holder, specifically those channels operated by the City of Laredo Public Access Channel; Education Access, Channel 55 will change to Channel 17 and Channel 8 will change to Channel 18.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2004-R-101 as amended.
City Secretary, Gustavo Guevara, Jr. pointed out that the item should read as a resolution and not as an ordinance.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. MOTIONS
33. Motion for City Council to vote and to instruct the City Manager to submit Council’s ballot for the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool Board of Trustees election.
Motion to approve the following as the four TML Board of Trustees representatives.
Place 6: Mary Gauer, Mayor, Harker Heights Place 7: Larry Dovalina, City Manager, Laredo Place 8: Leo Montalvo, Mayor, McAllen Place 9: Andres Garza, City Manager, Wharton
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Rejecting the bid submitted by Merchants Holding Co. for an approximately 53.0548- acre tract of non-aeronautical use land located along the east side of Bob Bullock Loop across from the Airport Passenger Terminal at the Laredo International Airport and authorizing the City Manager to negotiate a lease with the Merchants Holding Co. for an approximate 88.6748-acre tract.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an extension to the Maintenance Service Agreement Contract between the City of Laredo and TransCore for the hardware and software maintenance of the Bridge System Toll equipment. This Maintenance Agreement extension will be for three (3) years starting the first day of October 2004 and will not exceed $291,500.00 per year for the first two (2) years and $320,000.00 for the third (3) and final year. The City of Laredo will have an option to renew for an additional two (2) years subject to satisfactory performance evaluations of TransCore’s services to the City and for an amount not to exceed $320,000.00 per each additional year subject to future appropriations.
Motion to approve.
Rafael Garcia, Bridge Director, explained the contract.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Valdez
36. Consideration for approval of amendment no. 2 to authorize up to an additional $106,251.20 to the existing professional services contract with Cutler-Gallaway Services, Inc., San Antonio, Texas, for the Los Obispos Affordable Housing Project to assess cosmetic repair scope at 50 dwellings and prepare bid documents, and also to provide construction administration services for foundation repairs and cosmetic repairs. Funding is available in the Los Obispos Housing Project – Capital Improvement Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Consideration for approval of amendment no. 2 an increase of $99,994.00 to the engineering contract with Freese and Nichols, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas, for the reconstruction of taxiways “A”, “D”, & “G” for the Laredo International Airport. This amendment is for planned improvements on taxiways “D” & “B” to provide the re-packaging of existing documents to advertise these two taxiways for construction and to provide resident project representation (inspection services) during construction. Funding is available in the Airport Construction Fund FAA Grant No. 42 – Project Engineer Fees. Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Consideration for approval to award a design/build contract to Matrix Security Systems, Dayton, Ohio, in the amount not to exceed $308,149.00 for the Laredo International Airport Security Related Improvements Project. The scope of work consists of installing Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras at the passenger terminal, install video monitors, upgrading access door controls and installing new ID equipment. Funding is available in the Airport Construction Fund FAA Grant No. 34 and from Development and Improvement/ Land Proceeds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration of an award of contract to the sole bidder, Zertuche Construction, LLC, Laredo, Texas, in the amount not to exceed $137,000.00 for building improvements to create the “Health Department WIC Healthy Learning Center” at the City of Laredo Health Department Complex located at 2600 Cedar Avenue. Funding for this project has been allocated in the Health Department’s WIC Program budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Authorizing the City Manager to retain the services of Lara Sumano, Patiño y Asociados, S.C., Col. Juarez, Mexico, D.F. in the amount of $3,500.00 monthly plus travel and other out of pocket expenses for professional consulting services related to Mexican international border crossing issues. Funding is available in the Bridge Fund, Fifth Bridge Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Consideration to authorize the purchase of replacement Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) equipment through Houston Galveston Area Council of Government (HGAC) contract in the total amount of $391,759.23. The existing equipment will be replaced at the following sites: Jim Hogg County Sheriff’s Office, Rio Grande City Police Department, City of Roma Police Department, Starr County Sheriff’s Office, Webb County Sheriff’s Office and Zapata County Sheriff’s Office. Funding is available in the 9-1-1 Regional Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for one additional year for contract (FY 03-099) awarded to Firestone Store, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $73,414.00, for the purchase of police pursuit and passenger car tires. All tires are purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Authorizing the City Manager to write-off various accounts receivable that are deemed to be un-collectible by the City’s audit firm of Garza, Martinez & Co. as per their letter to Management. The total amount of the write-off is $2,998,884.94; a summary by account type is available for review. The financial impact to the City will be an expenditure of $25,405.75 for the fiscal year.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
44. Award of a Professional Service Contract to Garza, Martinez, & Co., Certified Public Accountants for a period of two (2) years in the amount not to exceed $72,000.00 for each fiscal year in order to provide audit services for fiscal year ending September 30, 2004 and for fiscal year ending September 30, 2005. Audit fees will be allocated to the professional services line item among the different funds to be audited. This contract is subject to future budget appropriations; audit fees will be allocated to the professional services line item among the different funds to be audited.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
45. Award of a two-year Professional Service Contract to Wells Fargo Bank Texas, N.A. for banking services to be provided to the City of Laredo for Fiscal Years 2005 and 2006 at an estimated amount of $127,078.34 per year. This contract is subject to future budget appropriations; banking services fees will be allocated to the respective user departments.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
46. Consideration to reimburse Webb and Zapata counties for the purpose of enforcing public safety in the City of Laredo and in those regions in the amount of $132,826.32. The services rendered are for the months of June through August 2004. Funding is available in the General Fund’s Other Financing Uses.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Consideration to award a contract to LDV Inc., Burlington, WI., in the amount of $196,961.00 for the purchase of one (1) explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) communication vehicle for the Police Department. This vehicle is being purchased through the State of Texas – TXMAS program. Funding is available from a Homeland Security Grant.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Consideration for approval to award an engineering contract to Santa Rita Consultants, Dallas, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $89,650.00 for the development of a two way radio communication system for the City of Laredo. Funding for this contract is available in the Police Trust Fund budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Consideration to award contract number FY04-122, to low bidder, Envirosolve, L.L.C., Tulsa, OK., in the estimated amount of $34,858.00, for conducting two Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events and one Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) collection event. Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
50. Authorizing the City Manager to sign an interlocal agreement with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District for the proposed feasibility study of Chacon Creek. The primary objectives of the study are to:
1. Determine whether the water resource related problems, needs and opportunities within the study area warrant federal participation in the construction of a solution; 2. Define the federal interest, consistent with Corp policies, costs, benefits and environmental impacts; 3. Assess the level of interest and support from non-federal entities in cost sharing for the feasibility phase and project construction. The total cost of the study for next (3) three years will be $1,880,000.00 with a 50% match from the City. Funding is available in the Environmental Services Department budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Consideration to award contract FY04-126 to Security Wave, Laredo, TX, the vendor providing the most advantageous proposal, for the purchase and installation of fourteen (14), vehicle global positioning systems (GPS) on fourteen (14), rear loader refuse trucks in the amount of $32,000.00 plus the annual monitoring fee of $5,023.20. Funding is available in the Solid Waste fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
52. Consideration to authorize the purchase of twenty four thousand eight hundred forty (24,840) garbage/refuse carts from Toter Inc., Statesville, NC through the State of Texas – Building and Procurement Commission (TBPC) contract number 450-A2 for two-wheel containers, in the total amount of $958,685.40. Funding for these carts has been budgeted in the Solid Waste Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
53. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amount to be adjusted for the month of August 2004 represents an increase of $27,479.88. These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
54. Refund of property tax in the amount of $16,115.57 to the following taxpayers and companies:
1. A refund in the amount of $914.57 payable to Juan Fernando Ruiz & Nora P. Ruiz due to a double payment. Account # 980-40002-110. 2. A refund in the amount of $706.06 payable to Laredo National Bank due to a double payment. Account # 909-00016-425. 3. A refund in the amount of $582.26 payable to Gloria Hernandez due to a double payment. Account # 968-90012-060. 4. A refund in the amount of $1,004.50 payable to Kim Mun Ja due to a double payment. Account # 970-50001-250. 5. A refund in the amount of $613.01 payable to Juan A. Bueno due to a double payment. Account # 905-00711-040. 6. A refund in the amount of $689.18 payable to Gloria Perez Saavedra due to a double payment. Account # 980-60003-250. 7. A refund in the amount of $526.88 payable to Jose M. Elizarde due to a double payment. Account # 969-00005-120. 8. A refund in the amount of $524.96 payable to Gilberto De Alba Jr. & Griselda R. De Alba due to a double payment. Account # 981-20040-110. 9. A refund in the amount of $2,654.40 payable to Eduardo Diaz Realty Inc. due to a double payment. Account # 972-90009-090. 10. A refund in the amount of $1,255.60 payable to Wells Fargo Home Mortgage due to a double payment. Account # 965-00002-004. 11. A refund in the amount of $605.95 payable Adelita F. Garza due to a double payment. Account # 985-60009-060. 12. A refund in the amount of $755.99 payable to County Wide Home Loans due to a double payment. Account # 980-90005-110. 13. A refund in the amount of $581.37 payable to Jaime R. Perez and Leticia H. Perez due to a double payment. Account # 969-00001-080. 14. A refund in the amount of $527.00 payable to Roberto L. Garcia & Marylyn Delarosa Garcia due to an overpayment. Account # 939-00001-220. 15. A refund in the amount of $600.27 payable to Roberto Martinez Gomez & Alicia Gomez due to an overpayment. Account # 965-30005-015. 16. A refund in the amount of $519.77 payable to Willis E. Gentry due to an overpayment. Account # 440-00839-010. 17. A refund in the amount of $986.53 payable to Border Title Group due to a double payment. Account # 945-00901-100. 18. A refund in the amount of $659.00 payable to Sergio Frias due to an overpayment. Account # 973-60019-090. 19. A refund in the amount of $555.61 payable to George L. Guerra & Laura M. Guerra due to a double payment. Account # 986-00002-220. 20. A refund in the amount of $852.66 payable to Peña & Peña Transportes due to a double payment. Account # 909-00051-950.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
55. Consideration to award contract number FY 04-116, to the low bidder, Global Data Systems, Austin, TX, in the annual amount of $80,594.01, for providing an annual maintenance contract for the city’s institutional network (I-Net) switching equipment. Funding is available through the respective user departmental budgets.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
56. Consideration to authorize the purchase of thermoplastic material for traffic signal projects from Flint Trading Inc., Thomasville, NC, through the State of Texas Term Contract Number 550-A1 for pavement markings, beads, and reflectors in the total amount of $26,562.00. Funding for these materials has been budgeted in the Capital Improvement Fund – Traffic Signal Projects and the Traffic Signal Projects and the Traffic Safety Department’s budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. STAFF REPORTS
57. A. Presentation by Eddie Zavala, City of Laredo 250th Anniversary Celebration Coordinator, on the celebration’s proposed calendar of events, with possible action.
Eddie Zavala, 250th Anniversary Celebration Coordinator, gave the following presentation:
Event Date Description
Poster Competition September 2004 The 250th Anniversary Celebration Commission Arts and Culture Sub-Committee will sponsor a commemorative poster competition among local students and professional artists.
Photography/Drawing September 2004 The 250th Anniversary Celebration Commission Arts and Culture Sub-Committee will sponsor a photography/drawing competition among local students and professional artists.
Kick-Off Celebration January 16, 2005 The 250th Anniversary Celebration Commission will simultaneously stage three fireworks displays around town to attract residents from every corner of the city. Food booths will be available.
Float Entry in WBCA February 17 & 19 The historical-themed float will appear in both WBCA parades. Float participants will be handing out flyers with the celebration’s schedule of events. PARD will oversee this project.
History Fairs February – December The 250th Anniversary Celebration Commission will approach school principals from September – December 2004 and encourage them to hold history fairs during 2005.
Traveling Exhibit February – December The Webb County Heritage Foundation will prepare two traveling exhibits that will be on tour in South Texas. The exhibit will include historical and current information about Laredo.
Dinner Gala honoring May 13, 2005 The Webb County Heritage Foundation will sponsor a gala honoring Tomas Sanchez descendants. The foundation will be responsible for costs associated with the dinner.
Founder’s Day Reenactment May 15, 2005 A local theatrical production company has show interest in mounting a reenactment focusing on Laredo’s founding fathers. The Webb County Heritage Foundation will oversee this event.
7 Cultures Festival July 4, 2005 The two-day event will be held at the Laredo Civic Center grounds and the theme will focus on the seven flags and cultures that once ruled Laredo. Food and entertainment will be available.
250th Celebration September 7, 2005 This one-day celebration will include a fireworks display and musical acts by local artists and singers.
All Star Game January 10 – 13 The City of Laredo will hold the 2005 Central Hockey League All Star Game at the Laredo Entertainment Center.
2006 Miss Texas USA June 24 – 26 For the second year in a row, the Miss Texas U. S. A. Pageant will be held in Laredo. It is estimated that close to 150 contestants will compete for the title.
Motion to accept the calendar as presented.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Status report by Mr. Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, on the Santa Ursula Avenue connector, with possible action.
Gabriel Martinez, Assistant City Engineer, said the city of Laredo City Council approved an engineering contract with Structural Engineering Associates, Inc. (SEA) for preliminary design of the Santa Ursula connector with hydraulic studies to the requirements of the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC). The Santa Ursula connector is to provide a bridge ramp from Santa Ursula Avenue at Zaragoza Street to the former import lot west of International Bridge I and parallel to the Rio Grande River.
He went on to say that on October 8, 2004 the City of Laredo staff Rafael Garcia, Bridge Director and Rogelio Rivera, P. E., City Engineer, together with SEA Engineers, Jesse Covarrubias, P.E., and David Covarrubias, P.E. met with IBWC Bernardino Olague, P.E., Principal Engineer, Steven Mullen, P.E. and Rong Kuo to submit the conceptual bridge layout plans and hydraulic report for the project. Since there had been previous meetings with IBWC on this project, there was little discussion on the plans, however, in response to a question regarding the results of the hydraulic study, SEA referred Rong Kuo of IBWC to the section of the report which states: “The revised model shows zero impact to the flood plains with maximum water surface elevation increase of no more than 0.02 feet.” IBWC was reminded of the possibility of having the signing of the approved plans to take place in Laredo. Bernardino Olague of IBWC stated that due to the commissioner’s schedule and the plan review time needed for both U. S. and Mexico Sections of IBWC, the plan and hydraulic report could not be approved until November 2004. IBWC, however, would do everything possible to expedite the review process and the City of Laredo would be notified accordingly.
Motion to authorize the City Manager to continue with the project and upon approval by IBWC negotiate an engineering contract with SEA for final design and preparations of plans bid document of the project.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Presentation on the proposed feasibility study of Chacon Creek by Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District.
Adrian Carter, Project Manager, gave the following presentation:
Corps’ Process
Reconnaissance Phase Feasibility Phase Planning, Engineering & Design Phase Construction Phase Operations & Maintenance
Reconnaissance Feasibility PED Phase Construction Operations
Duration 6 to 12 months 2-3 years 2 years Varies With project Funding 100% 50% Federal 75% Federal Project 100% non-Fed. 50% non-fed. 25% non-fed Funding Activities Analysis Feasibility Design Construction Operations Analysis Document. Real Estate Maintenance Acquisition Repair Negotiate Plans/Spec Relocations Replacement Agreement Engineering Rehabilitation Agreements Feasibility Cost Design Project Sharing Agree Agreement Cooperation Decision 905b Analysis Chief of Engineers Report Significant Feasibility Engineering O & M Manual Report/NEPA Design Report Documentation
Chacon Creek
Originates north of Lake Casa Blanca and flows about five miles to the southwest emptying into the Rio Grande.
Watershed has a total area of 155 square miles.
An overall increase in development spurred by NAFTA has changed the hydrology and hydraulics of all streams in Laredo including Chacon.
This change has increased from 100 year flood flow and the 100 year flood plain elevation.
Existing Floodplain
The existing flood plain varies from less than 400 to 2,800 ft. wide
It contains more than 240 homes (in the northern and middle zones), 30 small businesses, and three large industries.
Schedule
Execution of FCSA Sept. 2004 Initiate Study Oct. 2004 Feasibility Scoping Meeting April 2005 Plan Formulation Report April 2006 Alternative Formulation Brf May 2006 Submit Draft Report Nov. 2006 Project Guidance Memo Dec. 2006 Submit Final Report May 2007 Division Commander’s Not. June 2007 Chief’s Report Oct. 2007
Study Budget
FY05 FY06 FY07 Government $337,150 $340,350 $262,500 Sponsors $337,150 $340,350 $262,500 (Cash Contribution) $277,150 $280,350 $232,500 (In-Kind Services) $ 60,000 $ 60,000 $ 30,000
Total $674,300 $680,700 $525,000
Total FY05-FY07 $1,880,000
Conclusion
The main area of focus for this project will be on Chacon Creek between Lake Casablanca and the Rio Grande.
The study will require intense coordination because many parties are involved (City of Laredo, EPA, TPWD, Killiam Oil Co., etc)
Study Objectives are the following: Flood Damage Reduction Environmental/Ecosystem Restoration Recreation Enhancement for its citizens
D. Staff report by Daniel E. Migura, Administrative Services Department Director, regarding salary and benefits provisions for Municipal employees called to active Military duty with possible action.
This item was discussed under C 1 of the General Council Discussions and Presentations.
E. Final Report on 2004 Miss Texas USA Pageant by Mr. Nick M. Reyna, Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Director.
Nick Reyna, Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Director, gave the following report:
The contestants welcomed at the Laredo International Airport with a Red Carpet Reception. All contestants and Crystal Productions Staff were greeted by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores. They also attended “Fiesta Mexicana” which was hosted by the City of Nuevo Laredo.
Miss Texas USA Pageant
Major Laredo Events
LA Chic – Mall del Norte Everything but Water Swimsuit Competition La Posada Hotel/Suite Dinner at TAMIU featuring the Bruni Vergara Garden Denim & Diamonds Dinner at Graham’s Texas Stars in Laredo Autograph Party at the Laredo Entertainment Center Garden Fiesta Brunch: Vega’s Imports Coronation Ball at the Laredo Civic Center
Host City Investment
Production Fees Survey Trips Facilities, Lighting, Sound, and Staging Stage hands and Security Accommodations Meals and Canteen Service Transportation Medical Support Event Coordinator
Host City Investment
Gold Sponsors $ 80,000.00 Corporate Sponsors $ 3,000.00 Ticket Revenue $ 7,160.00 Expenses $426,192.00 Net Investment $336,032.00
Host City Benefits
§ Six minute city documentary § Fifteen minute destination promotion § Prime Time exposure in 20 major Texas markets; approximately 8 million households § Additionally, 1.4 Million household in New Mexico, Oklahoma, Louisiana and Mexico § Prime Time TV value of $900,000.00 § 130 Event Contestants
Host City Benefits
$125,000.00
In-kind contributions from local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.
Host City Corporate Sponsors
HEB La Posada Hotel Suites Holiday Inn Civic Center Fairfield Inn & Suites Narvaez Flower & Gift Shop Office Communication Systems Ozarka Knights Limousine Coca-Cola of Laredo Deutsch & Deutsch Fuddrucker’s Restaurant Graham’s Central Station Johnny Carino’s Mall Del Norte Outback Steakhouse TAMIU City of Nuevo Laredo Vega’s Imports Laredo Center for the Arts Laredo Chamber of Commerce Taco Palenque Tony Roma’s Los Dos Laredos Tailor Taylor’s Tuxedo Rental LMC: Dr. Diego Menchaca Pink, Inc Cingular Wireless Burlington Coat Factor Foley’s Department Store Starbucks Mr. & Mrs. Todd Williams
Thanks to the following Departments:
Police Department Parks & Recreation Department El Metro Laredo Entertainment Center Telecommunications Department Finance Department Audit Department City Manager’s Office CVB staff
A Special recognition and appreciation to Rocio Garza “Miss Texas USA Pageant Coordinator
XII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
58. A. Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia
1. Discussion with possible action regarding working with Webb County to upgrade the park at Larga Vista.
Horacio De Leon, Parks Director, reported that the Larga Vista Park has an irrigation system, soccer field, and a basketball court. He suggested installing a play ground module with a shade structure. He noted that he would be contacting the City of Laredo Legal Department to initiate an agreement with Webb County officials on improving the park.
B. Request by Council Member Johnny Rendon
1. Discussion with possible action to correct the flooding caused by the culvert at the end of Muller Road at the creek.
Cm. Rendon expressed his concerns for the business owners that are being affected by flooding caused by the culvert at the end of Muller Road.
Robert Muller, representing business owners, addressed the problem of the severe flooding that is occurring on McPherson Road due to an inadequate culvert. He presented pictures on poster boards that depicted the damage that is caused when there is heavy rain. He said that one culvert is not enough to handle the water coming out of North Laredo due to the explosive construction that has taken place. He said that the business owners are petitioning for temporary relief of flooding.
Carlos Benavides, III, representing the Rash Family, said that they would like to preserve the crossing at Muller Road. He added that he has submitted a Master Plan and a Phase I plat connecting Muller Road from McPherson to Gale to Carlos Mejia and the City of Laredo Planning and Zoning Department.
Gabriel Martinez, Assisting City Engineer, said that the City of Laredo is aware of the drainage problems at the end of Muller Road. He added that the culvert that exists on the intersection of Muller Road and McPherson is the cause of the overflow. He added that the City has awarded a design contract to Foster Engineering to design a multi-million dollar drainage system that will take sixteen months. He noted that it may be possible to phase portions of the design. He acknowledged that the culvert is undersized and needs to be expanded. He went on to say that if the City has permission to enter the Rash properties they may be able to reconstruct the culvert which would provide a temporary solution prior to the original plan that has been accepted in the Capital Improvement Plan.
John Orfila, Public Works Director, said that he would form another crew to construct four 4 x 5 culverts that should give temporarily relief to Muller Road once the Utility Coordination Committee has approved of the construction.
C. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1. Discussion with possible action regarding extending benefits to City of Laredo employees currently serving on active duty. (Co-sponsored by Cm. Jose A. Valdez)
Cm. Belmares said the City of Laredo has employees whose units have been called for active duty and there is a possibility that their military salaries will not be equal to their private or public sector salaries. He requested change in the local government code which would allow the municipality to make up the difference of the salaries and benefits.
Dan Migura discussed the following material:
Military Leave
Employees who are inducted into the United States Armed Forces or who are reserve members of the United States Armed forces or state militia groups will be granted leaves of absence for military service, training or other obligations in compliance with state and federal laws. These employees may use accrued annual or sick leave but are not required to do so. At the conclusion of the leave, employees generally have the right to return to the same position held prior to the leave or to positions with equivalent seniority, pay and benefits. Provisions can be made to supplement the difference in military pay and regular wages/salary for a specified period of time.
The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Right Acts of 1994 provides for: Employees called to active duty A cumulative leave for no more than five years Reinstatement of employment after proper notification to employer Continuation of some benefits U. S. Department of Labor has published draft regulations interpreting employer responsibilities as of September 20, 2004
Texas Government code 431.005 provides for: Public employees called to active duty Must be paid up to 15 days full salary per year
Texas Local Government Code provides for: For employees called to active duty Salary continuation as determined by the governing body subject to existing laws and contracts
City of Laredo Ordinance 91-O-038
Employees called to active duty by order of the President 15 calendar days paid leave per year Use of annual or sick leave to supplement military base pay
Possible Considerations:
Time eligible Monetary benefits Non-monetary benefits
Recent Survey information
· 2004 Benefit Survey (Society of Human Resource Management) – Out of 433 respondents, 17% have extended paid military leave beyond what may be required by law. · 2004 Benefit Survey – 32% Employers over 500 have extended paid military leave · 2004 Benefit Survey – 26% Government Employers extended paid military leave · 2004 Benefit Survey – 35% Employers extended paid military leave in 2002, 28% in 2003, and 17% in 2004 · Fortune 500 Companies (2002) – Pay differential varied from 0 days to 365 days, 1 month to 18 months, and some companies for duration of the call up · Comp Data Texas – 44% of Texas organizations grant some form of military pay and average 90.6 days of extended pay · Recent weekly poll of 346 respondents indicated that o 6.4 % increased amount of differential pay o 3% Decrease differential pay o 11.3% Increased length of time for which pay is available o 3.8% increased Non-monetary benefits o .06 Decrease Non-monetary benefits
Other Considerations:
22 employees have used or are using the City’s benefits within last two years.
Motion to instruct staff to provide employees who are deployed for military duty with a pay differential to maintain their salary level at what it was before they were deployed.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. J. Valdez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion with possible action regarding the installation of a traffic light at San Isidro Street and McPherson Avenue.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, informed Council that the installation of a traffic light at San Isidro Street and McPherson Avenue would cost the City around $100,000.
3. Discussion with possible action requiring TXDOT adherence to our storm and flood plain water ordinances.
Cm. Belmares requested for the Planning and Zoning Commission to review the action requiring TxDOT adherence to our storm and flood plain water ordinance.
D. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with possible action regarding moving the loading zone located on the north side of the 1300 block of Zaragoza in closer proximity to Salinas Avenue.
Cm. Ramirez stated that he had already discussed this item with Mr. Murillo.
2. Reconsider the motion approved at the Council Meeting of September 7, 2004 regarding the change of traffic on Grant Street around the San Agustin Plaza.
Cm. Ramirez stated that he had already discussed this item with Mr. Murillo.
3. Discussion with possible action regarding having Police Officers stationed on Bridge I and Bridge II, and report on the incident on Bridge II.
Police Chief Dovalina reported that the City of Laredo Police Department does maintain a presence on Bridges I & II by working in conjunction with the United States Customs and the Border Protection Service on an operation called Operation Cooperation. He added that it is an initiative where the department is able to observe north and south bound traffic to check for different types of criminal activity. He continued to say that the department does not have officers deployed at the bridges twenty four hours a day because they must work within a budget provided by the Operation Cooperation and the recent deployment of officer to Iraq has caused a shortage in patrol officers. He expressed his concern for the downtown area and said that the department is working very diligently to modify schedules to assure the community that staff has enough personal to deter types of criminal activity.
Cm. Ramirez expressed his disappointment in the City of Laredo Police Department by saying that the feedback from his constituents lead him to believe that there is not enough protection in the downtown areas.
Motion to strongly urge the City Manager to assign a patrol officer to Bridge I & Bridge II during working hours to better serve the downtown merchants.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: There was no second.
Motion dies.
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, reminded Cm. Ramirez that Council Member may not assign specific assignments to City Staff. He suggested discussing his concerns with the City Manager or with the Police Chief for solutions.
Chief Dovalina advised that the department has a contingency plan for the holiday season. He will be assigning additional police officer to the downtown area.
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 City Attorney or other legal counsel for the City, pursuant to his or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to consult privately with his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out of such item. 59. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (1)(B) to consult with Attorney representing the City of Laredo and consider a settlement offer regarding pending litigation: Cause No. 2003-CVQ-001579-D2 City of Laredo vs Olissis, Inc., et al in the 111th Judicial District Court of Webb County, Texas and return to open session for possible action.
Motion to open the Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (1)(B) to consult with Attorney representing the City of Laredo and consider a settlement offer regarding pending litigation: Cause No. 2003-CVQ-001579-D2 City of Laredo vs Olissis, Inc., et al in the 111th Judicial District Court of Webb County, Texas and return to open session for possible action.
After Executive Session, Cm. Galo read that no formal action was taken.
Motion authorizing the City Manager to accept a settlement offer regarding pending litigation: Cause Number 2003-CVQ-001579-D2 City of Laredo vs. Olissis, Inc., et al in the 111th Judicial District Court of Webb County, Texas where Defendant Trendland Development shall pay to the City of Laredo the sum of $10,000 (Ten Thousand Dollars) upon the occurrence of the following:
1.) Appropriate release given to defendant by City of Laredo; and 2.) Joint Motion to Dismiss with prejudice as to defendant Trendland Development.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORTATION
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
60. Consideration to authorize change order number 1, an increase in the amount of $3,500.00 for demolition project FY04-083 awarded to Laredo Environmental Services Inc. The original contract amount, authorized by the City Manager was for $22,500.00 however additional work was needed to complete the project. The project total is now $26,000.00. Funding is available in the Noise Abatement Lease Program budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. ADJOURN AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation and reconvene as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
61. Motion to waive the bus fare collection during Communities in Motion Day on October 7, 2004. This action will give El Metro an opportunity to attract new customers and educate our community on the importance of public transportation. The estimated revenue loss is $7,500.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez
62. Consideration to award a comprehensive operational analysis study to First Transit in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00. Funding is available in Grant TX-90-X438.
Ron Moore, General Manager for El Metro, informed Council that the item was approved by the El Metro Committee to award a comprehensive operational analysis to First Transit in the amount not to exceed $100,000. He continued to say that the initial contract that was approved by the City of Laredo states that operational studies will be done in-house for an additional charge.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez
XVII. ADJOURN AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL.
Motion to adjourn as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. 9:00 p.m.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Garcia 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 43 are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City council meeting held on September 27, 2004
_______________________________ Gustavo Guevara, Jr. City Secretary |