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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2005-R-010 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 May 16, 2005 5:30 P.M.
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, Council Member, District III Johnny Amaya, Mayor Pro Tem, District IV 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
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes of April 18, 2005 and May 2, 2005.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Rendon For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Agredano was not present. He arrived at 5:45 p.m.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Announcements
None. Invitations
None.
Recognitions
a. Recognition of Diana Garcia, 2004 -2005 Chair, and Lynne Nava, Committee Member from 2002-2005, for their service and dedication to the Laredo Commission for Women.
Mayor and City Council presented Diana Garcia and Lynne Nava with a certificate of recognition and a bouquet of roses for their service and dedication to the Laredo Commission for Women.
b. Recognition of Gerardo “Jerry” Cantu, of Environmental Services Department, on his selection as April 2005 Employee of the Month.
Mayor and City Council presented Gerardo “Jerry” Cantu with a Certificate of Recognition on his selection of April 2005 Employee of the Month.
Riazul Mia, Environmental Services Director, stated that Jerry Cantu is a Nixon High School graduate and has been with the City of Laredo for fifteen (15) years. He noted that his passion for excellent work should be a role model for all City employees to follow.
c. Recognition of the Environmental Service Department Staff for winning first place in the education division from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at the 2005 Texas Environmental Excellence Awards in Austin, Texas.
Riazul Mia, Environmental Director, thanked the Mayor, City Council Members, City Manager, and the Deputy City Manager for their support. He noted that there were twenty four (24) recipients and the City of Laredo was awarded first place.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, said that the two other finalists for the 2005 Texas Environmental Excellence Awards were the Environmental Institute in Houston, and the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.
d. Recognition by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores and City Council Members of Employees who retired from the City of Laredo with 20 or more years of service.
Ricardo A. Garcia 20 years Bridge Department Amelia N. Martinez 20 years Community Development Oscar Medina 22 years Engineering/Public Works Daniel Gonzalez 40 years Engineering/Public Works Roberto Reyna 26 years Fire Department Raul Garcia 32 years Fire Department Sylvia A Arellano 31 years Health Department Luis H. Izaguirre 21 years Health Department Rafael Velez 24 years Health Department Victor M Oliveros 36 years Health Department Raul Aguilar 30 years Parks & Recreation Juan M. Cantero 25 years Parks & Recreation Victor A. Uribe 20 years Planning & Zoning Antonio Martinez 26 years Planning & Zoning Santiago Guevara 22 years Police Department San Juana L. Rangel 25 years Police Department Juventino Rosales 29 years Public Works/Fleet Jesus Garza 33 years Solid Waste Department Herminio Reyes 32 years Solid Waste Department Luis Estevis 20 years Utilities Department
e. Recognition of Octavio Salinas Elementary School Girls Basketball Team for being City Champions for three consecutive years.
Mayor Flores and City Council presented Seven Flag Certificates to the following basketball players:
Emily Bernal Rainy Castaneda Josie Cortez Analy Gomez Kimberly Gonzalez Valerie Ibarra Lily Jaime Stephanie Lopez Angelica Ortega Adriana Orozco Volunteer Coach Freddy Martinez
Communiqués
a. Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores reports on the City of Laredo Library Department.
The Mayor read the following report:
Library Division
History
The Laredo Public Library, founded by the Woman’s City Club in 1900, partially fund, city department in 1916 (utilities and space); fully funded department in 1952 after citizen petitioned the City Council. It has provided continued excellent service to the citizens of Laredo and Webb County for over 100 years.
Facilities
The Library System has 52 employees, 13 holding Masters of Library Science degrees, working in three (3) facilities and a bookmobile.
The Main Library (1120 E. Calton Road) opened new facility in 1998 Santo Nino Branch Library (2200 Zacatecas) opened 1992 Bruni Plaza Branch Library (1120 San Bernardo Ave.) remodeled/opened 1999
The combined facilities have a total of 72,811 square feet housing a collection of materials with over 220,000 volumes. Materials include: 205,000 books, 10,000+ videos, CD’s, DVD’s books on tape, puppets, games, puzzles, and paperback books. The Libraries also subscribe to 470 newspapers and magazines and hundreds of online databases. In addition, the Main Library houses extensive reference collection and archives of historical photographs, maps, books, and manuscript collections.
Services
In FY2004 over 445,637 visitors checked out 480,622 volumes. 124,766 of those items checked out were by children. Since the new Main Library opened in 1998 almost 3,500,000 visitors have used or borrowed and estimated 4,000,000 items. The libraries also have 250 public access computers. Computer use has increased to an all-time record of over 158,108 patrons last year. That’s an average 13,176 per month. Reference questions answered have also seen a 20 percent increase from the previous reporting period. Librarians answered 120,316 questions.
The Library presented 1,793 programs in FY2004 which were well attended by 52,931 children and parents. In addition to three weekly story hours, special programs included: school visits and tours, storytellers, magicians and musicians, Summer Reading Program, national Children’s Book Week, National Library Week, Dia de los Ninos, Literacy Camps, Art Splashes, book fairs, Poetry contest, puppet shows, science fair workshops, year round, after-school arts & crafts, and computer classes. Another program is “School is Out. Now What?” where the children can enjoy special seasonal, learning activities and entertainment. A monthly calendar, as well as, the web site, www.laredolibrary.org, keep patrons informed of daily activities. In addition, the libraries host exhibits on a variety of interesting topics. Exhibits include: local nonprofit organizations, local artists, history & culture and of course recommended reading.
The Libraries also sponsor GED and ESL classes through Laredo Community College.
Certification & Grants
The Laredo Public Library is an accredited member of the Texas State Library/South Texas Library System. Accreditation is very important to Laredo because it preserves eligibility for grants, funding for books and programs, interlibrary loan (borrowing books from other member libraries), TexShare Program (State-wide Library Borrowing Card), access to library consultants and staff training. Since 1989 the public library has received almost $1,000,000.00 through the Texas State Library and/or South Texas Library System for building projects, computers, books, and other forms of media and technology upgrades. This fiscal year the libraries will receive new computers through grants from the Texas State Library Loan Star Program (15,130.00) and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation – Staying Connected Grants (estimated value - $30,000 16 new computers)
Memberships
Keeping abreast of library trends and innovations in information delivery is essential to good customer service. Therefore library staff is very active in professional library associations to promote networking and collaborations. The library staff has membership and/or holds office in the following organizations:
Texas Library Association Public Library Association American Library Association Reforma (National & San Antonio Chapter) Hispanic Librarians Association Texas city Manager’s Association Texas Municipal Library Director’s Association – TML Texas Nonprofit Management Assistance Network
Nonprofit Management & Volunteer Center Division
The Nonprofit Management & Volunteer Center, which is a three-person division of the Laredo Public Library serves as a resource for local non profit agencies by providing professional development workshops and reference tools to aid nonprofit agencies. The Center is a Collaborative Collection Library partnering with the Foundation Center from New York, N. Y. The Center is also a member of the Texas Nonprofit Management Assistance Network and the Alliance for Nonprofit Management. The Center maintains 41 Third Party Funding contracts for the City of Laredo.
The Center also acts a placement agency for volunteers and community service workers. In the past year the Center has placed 2,709 individuals throughout varies city departments and local agencies. These individuals worked a total of 160,873 hours, which comes to a total cost savings of $1,203,330.00.
The end
Cm. Garcia congratulated the International Bank of Commerce for being named the top bank in Texas with $9.917 Billion dollars in assets. He noted that IBC does a work in the community and surrounding areas. He also congratulated the ex-Mayor Pro Tempore Eliseo Valdez, Jr., for being named President of the Laredo Builders Association. Finally, he announced that he is very proud of the Alexander High School Bulldogs for winning the area title in baseball.
Cm. Galo echoed Cm. Garcia by congratulating the International Bank of Commerce. He thanked the Laredo Fire Department and the Laredo Sheriff’s Department for their quick response to a 911 call from a local ranch. He said that he was very impressed with the professionalism that both departments exhibited during the response. He added that our citizens can be very proud and feel safe knowing that we have professionals on call to assist us during crisis.
Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya announced that he had attended the Health and Benefits Committee, the Water Issues Committee, and the Transit Committee. He also congratulated the Parks and Recreation Department for an outstanding job they are doing at the Zacate Creek Linear Park.
Cm. Rendon congratulated his appointee, Frances G. Wawroski for being selected as the chairperson for the Laredo Women’s Commission. He also congratulated Riazul Mia and his staff for garnishing 1st Place which was received on behalf of the City of Laredo from the TECQ. He thanked everyone who assisted in a fund raiser that was held for the District V Scholarship Fund.
Cm. Belmares congratulated the 250th Commission for doing a wonderful job organizing a luncheon for the descendents of Don Tomas Sanchez and families. He encouraged the community to visit some of the events that are being held throughout the year to celebrate the 250th. He thanked Cm. Agredano, Cm. Garcia, Ricardo De Anda and several others who participated in the scholarship fund for United Independent School District. Finally, he thanked Horacio De Leon, Parks and Recreation Director, for distributing the Summer Programs to the public early. He encouraged the citizens to participate in the summer programs that are provided for children and adults.
Cm. Valdez announced that on May 16th the City of Laredo had a proclamation proclaiming National Police Week. He acknowledged the importance of law enforcement in our community and assured them that they have Council’s support.
Cm. Ramirez thanked Judge Bruni and the Commissioner’s Court in granting the City of Laredo permission to survey the land for the water park. The survey is complete so he is going to go back to Commissioner’s Court to get the approval of the land.
Cm. Agredano thanked all the citizens that donated nonperishable food to the annual post office food drive where they were able to collect over 10,000 pounds of food. He advised that all the food is distributed in Laredo to needy families.
Mayor Flores mentioned the proclamation for National Police Week. She thanked the Chief of Police for organizing the memorial service for police officers that have lost their lives serving the community. She thanked the Chief for his speech and congratulated him on his leadership skills. She also thanked everyone that attended the Blue Mass. She asked the community to take the time to thank the police officers for serving their community.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
a. Appointment by Council Member Jose A. Valdez Jr. of Rebecca C. Sepulveda to the Historic District / Landmark Board.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 b. Appointment by Council Member Gene Belmares of Nelda Juarez to the Laredo Commission for Women.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Special Use Permit for mini storage/warehousing, on 1.73 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located at Ranchway Drive and McPherson Road; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and postpone.
Moved: Cm. Agredano Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, Juan Morales Plat, located at 11102 Mines Road, from B-4 (Highway Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Valdez
3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning the Tex Mex Right-of-Way of Block 1343, Eastern Division, located at the intersection of Jarvis Avenue and Market Street, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Galo
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for an amusement redemption machine establishment on Lot 8, Block 4, Western Division, located at 1309 and 1311 Iturbide Street; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed Conditional Use Permit.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Roberto Gonzalez, stated that Mr. Gonzalez spent a lot of money remodeling his building; however, users for the building has not materialized until recently when an offer was made to him by a person that is interested in opening the building for amusement devises.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Ramirez
5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for inventory storage on Lots 1 and 3, Block 992, Western Division, located at 3902 Main Avenue; 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. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Valdez
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 53.65 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located at 1450 Concord Hills Boulevard, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. 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. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Agredano
7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 5, Block 110, Western Division, located at 502 Matamoros Street, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the proposed zone change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Rosario Garza, owner, requested approval for a used car lot.
Butch Haynes stated that he is not in favor of a zone change for a used car lot. He said the lot measures 55’ x 110 and there is not enough space to have a properly displayed car lot.
Mildred Reyna spoke against the zone change request.
Motion to close the public hearing and deny the zone change request.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance to authorize the City Manager to accept $18,000.00 in contributions and amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004–2005 CVB Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $18,000.00 to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Fund.
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. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
VIII. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
9. Amending City of Laredo Code of Ordinance, Chapter 23 Parks and Recreation, by adding Section 23.8, prohibiting child sex offenders from entering any city park and from loitering on a public way within 300 feet of a city park; and defining Child Safety Zone, City Park, Child Sex Offender, Loiter and Public Way; providing for enforcement procedures and penalties; and providing for severability and effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey fee simple title to Robert W. McMahon for the “Surface Only” at its market value of $2,400.00 for certain property described as a tract of land containing 900 square feet or 0.02066 of an acre, more or less, situated in Porcion 25, Abstract 50, Webb County, Texas, being generally described on attached Exhibit; and providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey fee simple title to El Portal Center, LLC., for the “Surface Only”, at its market value of $100,000.00 for certain property described as being a 6,666 sq. ft. tract of land, more or less, out of that former section of Davis Avenue between Zaragoza and Water Streets, situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas being generally described on the attached Exhibit; and providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
IX. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the final readings of ordinance # 2005-O-093, # 2005-O-094, # 2005-O-095, # 2005-O-096, # 2005-O-097, # 2005-O-098, # 2005-O-099, # 2005-O-100, # 2005-O-101, # 2005-O-102, # 2005-O-103, # 2005-O-104, # 2005-O-105, # 2005-O-106, # 2005-O-107, # 2005-O-108, # 2005-O-109, # 2005-O-110, # 2005-O-111, # 2005-O-112, # 2005-O-113, # 2005-O-114, # 2005-O-115, # 2005-O-116 and # 2005-O-117.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 2005-O-093 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004 - 2005 Airport Construction Budget to recognize additional revenues from a grant received from the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program being Grant Project No. 3-48-0136-44-05 in the amount of $4,271,932.00 to rehabilitate a portion of Runway 17R and to improve runway safety area at the Laredo International Airport and appropriating said grant revenue and local match to the appropriate expenditure accounts and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget amendment. This grant in the amount of $4,271,932.00 was augmented by the amount of $1,271,932.00 from the original grant announcement of $3,000,000.00.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-093.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-094 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning the North 2/3 of Lots 1 and 2, Block 1738, Eastern Division, located at the intersection of Zacatecas Street and Arkansas Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-094.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-095 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 1.64 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located south of Del Mar Blvd. and east of Country Club Dr., from R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-095.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-096 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1 and the west ½ of Lot 2, Block 993, Eastern Division, located at 1801 Market St., from R-O (Residential/Office District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-096.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-097 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 7 and 8, Block 1016, Eastern Division, located at 2820 S. Hwy 83, from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-097.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-098 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 12.85 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located west of Bob Bullock Loop, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-098.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0: 2005-O-099 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning all of Block 5, Colonia Los Obispos Subdivision, Unit V, located at the intersection of Sierra Vista Boulevard and South Lucy Street, from R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-099.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-100 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 10, 11, and 12, Block 629, Eastern Division, located at 1102 Chihuahua Street, from R-O (Residential/Office District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-100.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-101 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 48.18 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located east of Lakeside Subdivision, Phase 11 and 12 , from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1 (Single-Family Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-101.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-102 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 26.28 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located approximately south of University Boulevard and west of Casa Verde Road, from R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) to B-3 (Community Business District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-102.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-103 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning 13.03 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located north of Summerwind Subdivision, Unit I, from R-1 (Single- Family Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-103.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-104 Amending the Fiscal Year 2004 - 2005 Annual Budget for Parking Meter Fund and 2002 Certificate of Obligation Fund by $408,781.00 and $1,091,219.00 respectively to appropriate proceeds from sale of land of Lots 1, 2, 3 and 4 on Block 276A Western Division located on the south side of the 1500 Block of Zaragoza Street.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-104.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-105 Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances Chapter 33, Article VII entitled Stormwater Fees to include a new section, 33-445, as well as amending the stormwater rates for residential and multifamily customers and the rate for additional meters for commercial customers; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-105.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2005-O-106 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the additional amount of $35,000.00 for a total amount of $175,000.00 from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to continue the operation of the two continuous air monitoring stations (CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health Department, by extending the grant period which ends August 31, 2005, an additional six months. The term period would be September 1, 2003 through February 28, 2006; and authorizing the City Manager to execute the contract.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-106.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-107 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Annual Budget by reducing the amount by $10,138.00 to reflect the actual award of $318,929.00 from the South Texas Development Council for the HIV/AIDS Ryan White Title II Services Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period of April 1, 2005 through March 31, 2006.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-107.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-108 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a $20,000.00 donation from the Del Mar Little League and to amend the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Capital Improvement Fund by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $20,000.00 in the form of a donation for the purchase and installation of lights at the Community Senior League Field located at 400 St. James.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-108.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-109 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant in the amount of $8,000.00 from the Texas Department of Transportation for the enforcement of the seat belt law and authorizing the City Manager to amend the City of Laredo’s Fiscal Year 2004-2005 Annual Budget in the amount of $10,112.00. This grant is for overtime salaries and is funded 100% by the Texas Department of Transportation. Fringe benefits totaling $2,112.00 will be paid by the City of Laredo.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-109.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2005-O-110 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Laredo’s Foot Care Center for approximately 5,600 square feet constituting Building No. 1054 located at 4812 North Bartlett Avenue at the Laredo International Airport. Lease term is for ten (10) years commencing on June 1, 2005 and ending on May 31, 2015, and may be extended for two (2) terms of five (5) years each ending on May 31, 2020 and May 31, 2025. Monthly rent shall be $4,200.00 and will be adjusted annually according to changes in the Consumer Price Index and further adjusted by fair market rent appraisal on the 10th anniversary; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-110.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-111 Authorizing the City Manager to execute Lease No. DTFA07-95-L- 01050 between the United States of America, represented by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the City of Laredo and thereby merging FAA Lease No. DTFA07-95-L-01115 which ends on September 30, 2005, providing necessary land areas for Runway 17R Localizer (LOC) at the Laredo International Airport. FAA seeks to merge existing Lease No. DTFA07-95-L-01050 which ends on September 30, 2009, providing the medium intensity approach lighting system with runway Indicator lights (MALSR) Runway 17R. Therefore, the parties hereto mutually desire to incorporate Lease No. DTFA07-95-L-01115 into Lease No. DTFA07-95-L-01050 for efficiency in the administration of FAA Leases. There is no rental cost since FAA maintains and operates these facilities; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-111.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-112 Authorizing the City Manager to execute Supplemental Lease Agreement (SLA) Number 1 to Lease No. GS-07B-15259 approved by Ordinance No. 2002-O-325 dated December 16, 2002, with the General Services Administration for approximately 1,313 square feet constituting office space occupied by the Transportation Security Administration located at 5210 Bob Bullock Loop at the Laredo International Airport. Said Supplemental Lease Agreement extends the lease term three (3) years until November 17, 2007, and revises the monthly rent amount to $3,166.67. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in effect; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-112.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-113 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease between the City of Laredo, as Lessor and L.A. Ventures, Inc., as Lessee, for approximately 3.64 acres of land known as Tract 9, Lot 1, Block 1, located at the Laredo International Airport Passenger Terminal Subdivision. Lease term is for forty (40) years commencing on June 1, 2005 and ending on May 31, 2045. The initial monthly rent is $3,508.00 and will be adjusted annually based on the changes in the Consumer Price Index and adjusted by fair market rent appraisal on 10th, 20th, and 30th anniversaries; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-113.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-114 Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 15-Health and Sanitation, Article III-Cleanliness and Sanitation of Premises, specifically amending: Section 15-37 by adding definitions; Section 15-41 providing for Penalty; Section 15-42 providing for issuance of a Notice of Violation; Section 15-43 outlining process for Service of Notice of Violation; Section 15-45 providing for Assessment of Expenses of Clean- up; Section 15-46 detailing procedures for a Lien for the Costs of Clean- up; providing for publication and for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-114.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-115 Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 14-Garbage, Trash and Refuse, Article IV- Junked Vehicles by providing in Section 14-24 that Junked Vehicles are Nuisances; Section 14-25 amending the Penalty for Maintaining a Nuisance; Section 14-26, providing for Notice to Abate Nuisance; Section 14-27 providing for Hearing on Abatement of Nuisance; Section 14-28 providing for Disposal of Junked Vehicles; and Section 14-29 providing for Exceptions; providing for publication and for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-115.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2005-O-116 Authorizing an amendment of the lease dated May 18, 2004, as authorized by Ordinance No. 2004-O-039, with Morgan Stern Realty Holdings, LLC, Cathy Associates LLC, and Mary Associates, LLC, which amendment: 1. Approves of transfer of lease to El Portal Center, LLC; 2. Adds 31,764 square feet to the leased area (tract 6); and 3. Adds monthly rental for tract 6 of $794.00; Said lease amendment being Exhibit A of this Ordinance; and providing for effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-116.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2005-O-117 Opening as a public street and easement that section of Cherry Hill Drive between Sandman and East Calton Road situated in the Laredo Airport Subdivision, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and rescinding Ordinance No. 2004-O-262 dated October 25, 2004, which closed the same as a public easement; and providing for effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-117.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 X. RESOLUTIONS
13. 2005-R-044 Accepting the donation of one parcel of land from Robert G. Haynes and Anna M. Haynes as a Utility Easement for the Chacon Creek Interceptor Project, Phase II. Said parcel being a thirty (30 ft.) wide easement containing 0.19 acre, more or less, and being situated in Porcion 28, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B.
Motion to approve Resolution 2005-R-044.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 2005-R-045 Accepting the donation of one parcel of land from the Corrections Corporation of America as a Utility Easement for the Chacon Creek Interceptor Project, Phase II. Said parcel being a thirty (30 ft.) wide easement containing 0.82 acre, more or less, and being situated in Porcion 28, Abstract 241, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas; and described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-045.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 2005-R-047 Declaring the public necessity to acquire the “Surface Only” of one parcel of land for the River Vega Land Acquisition Project. Said parcel consisting of Blocks 1008, 2088, and part of Block 2182, Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, as delineated on attached copy of City Plat; and authorizing staff to negotiate with the owners for the acquisition of said parcel by purchase at market values to be established by a State Certified Real Estate Appraiser, and further authorizing the City Attorney to initiate condemnation proceedings to acquire said parcel if staff is unable to acquire due to inability to agree to a purchase price, conflict of ownership, owner refusal to sell, and/or inability to locate the listed owner.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-047.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 2005-R-050 Accepting the donation of an easement for water and sewer utilities from John R. Daves, for the D-5 Acres Subdivision Easement Acquisition Project. This being a strip of land 15.00 feet in width, containing 3,142.44 square feet or 0.072 of an acre, more or less, over and across a portion of Tract 17 in the D-5 Acres Subdivision, and being situated in Porcion 33, Abstract 3084, Webb County, Texas, and described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-050.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 2005-R-051 Accepting the donation of an easement for water and sewer utilities from John R. Daves, Juan P. Rodriguez and Ritha M. Rodriguez, for the D-5 acres Subdivision Easement Acquisition Project. This being a strip of land 5.00 feet in width, containing 1,047.48 square feet or 0.024 of an acre, more or less, over and across a portion of Tract 11 in the D-5 Acres Subdivision, and being situated in Porcion 33, Abstract 3084, Webb County, Texas, and described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-051.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. MOTIONS
18. Establishing a City of Laredo Sister Cities Youth Exchange Program and approving the bylaws thereof. The program will consist of 16 junior and senior students from our local high schools which will serve as a catalyst for youth advancement through innovative and cross-cultural educational programs with our worldwide sister cities.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to sell surplus equipment to our Sister Cities of Monclova, Coahuila and Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorization to individually contract with the following bands that will provide the musical entertainment for the 250th Anniversary Celebration 7 Flags 7 Cultures Festival. 1. Premiere Management and Entertainment Agency at a cost of $12,000.00. (Emilio Navaira and Elida y Avante) 2. Ross & Friends at a cost of $2,000.00. 3. Wild Root at a cost of $2,000.00. 4. Diamondback at a cost of $2,000.00. 5. La Clave at a cost of $2,000.00.
Funding is available in the Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau 250th Anniversary Celebration Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with the Laredo Entertainment Center for the purpose of hosting the Miss Texas USA Pageant which includes expenses for the Move-in / Move-out, Preliminary Competition, Dress Rehearsal, the Final Show and Live Telecast at a cost not to exceed $100,100.00. Funding is available in the Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Consideration for approval to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder Ramos Industries, Inc., Pasadena, Texas, in the amount of $6,226,037.50 for the Laredo International Airport Reconstruction of Portions of Runway 17R-35L (Phases I and II), Taxiways B and D, and General Aviation Apron (Phase I) AIP Project No. 3-48-0136-042-2005 and AIP Project No. 3-48-0136-044-2005. Funding is available in the Airport Construction Fund / Improvements Other Than Building line items.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration to award contract number FY05-072 to the low bidder, Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $34,320.00 for a one (1) year billboard advertising contract for the Airport along IH35 and Highway 59. Funding is available in the Airport Construction Fund Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to award a contract to the sole provider, FMC Airport Systems, Ogden, UT, in the total amount of $58,496.00 for the purchase and installation of a replacement air condition system for jet bridge number four (4). The jet bridge was damaged during the storm/wind event of June 2003. This is the final component of the repairs needed for the jet bridge. Funding is available in the Airport Fund. This is a reimbursable TML expense for the storm/wind damages.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for one additional year for contract FY03- 041 for the purchase of dealer repair parts for the vehicle fleet from Paul Young Chevrolet Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $25,000.00. All parts will be purchased on an as-needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for one additional year for contract FY04- 049 for the purchase or automotive batteries from Laurel Battery, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated annual amount of $29,642.70. All batteries will be purchased on an as-needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Consideration to award contract number FY05-079 to the low bidder, National Waterworks Inc., San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $641,051.00 for the purchase of PVC pipe for Utilities Department. These materials are purchased on an as-needed basis by the Utilities Department – Water Operations for construction and repair projects. Funding is available in the Utilities Department Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Consideration to award contract FY05-083 to the LOW BIDDERS, Laroche Industries Inc., Atlanta, GA; AOC Welding Supplies, Laredo, TX; FSTI, Manor, TX; Kemiron Companies, Inc., Lawrence, KS; DPC Industries, Inc., Corpus Christi, TX; Altivia Corp., Houston, TX; Bay Chemical Co., Odem, TX; Pennco Inc, San Felipe, TX; Polydyne Inc, Riceboro, GA; Nalco Company, Naperville, IL; and Univar USA, Corpus Christi, TX, for providing water and wastewater treatment chemicals for the Utilities Department. The annual estimated amount is $625,000.00. Funding is available in the Utilities Department Budget.
Motion to postpone.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Consideration to award annual service contract number FY05-082 to the low bidder, Clementson, Inc., Edinburg, Texas, in the estimated amount of $155,000.00 for furnishing vacuum truck services to transport domestic sewage, sewage sludge and/or sludge for the Utilities Department. This service supplements the department’s equipment capabilities and helps control sewage overflows during emergencies. The frequency and number of hours vary depending on the City’s need. The bid price is based on a flat hourly rate of $70.00. Funding is available in the Utilities Department – Wastewater / Water Division.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration for approval of Change Order No. 2 to the construction contract with Leyendecker Construction, Laredo, Texas, for the City of Laredo Bridge of Americas Modification Project (El Portal) to add one hundred nineteen (119) calendar days to the contract time due to utility delays in association with Buildings A and B. The new contract time is six hundred sixty-five (665) calendar days.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Consideration for approval to reject the sole bid received for the McPherson Road Widening North of Del Mar Blvd. Phase II, Step “B” (Villa Court to Mahogany Drive) and to authorize the City Manager and Staff to construct the project in-house. Funding is available in the Transit System – Improvements Other Than Buildings.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration to award contract number FY05-075, to the sole bidder, Rob K Concrete Products Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $31,570.15 for furnishing the prefabricated concrete rebar, wire mesh and other items needed for the upper Zacate Creek drainage improvements at the Gale Street crossing. The contract vendor will be required to provide the necessary rebar, precut and detailed, for the concrete channels, walls, and inlets for the construction of a bridge as per the construction plans. Funding is available in the 2003 Contractual Obligation Fund – Upper Zacate Creek Drainage Project.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Consideration to award contract number FY05-094 to the low bidder_________, for providing laundry dry cleaning services for Police Department uniforms. The city must provide dry cleaning service for police uniforms as a condition of the collective bargaining agreement. Bids will be opened on Monday, May 16, 2005 and the contract vendor will be announced at the City Council meeting. Funding is available in the Police Department Budget. The A-1 Dry Cleaning bid is $4,810 per month/57,720 annually at an average of $10.69 per office per month.
Motion to approve and award to A-1 Dry Cleaning.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Consideration to award a contract to Austin Ribbon and Computer, through the State of Texas – Department of Information Resources (DIR) contract, in the amount of $31,264.00 for the purchase of sixteen (16) new computers for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation “Staying Connected Grant Program”. Funding in the amount of $20,843.00 is available in the Friends of the Library Fund for two-thirds cost. The one-third match, $10,421.00, is appropriated in the General Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Consideration to award contracts to 62 qualified book vendors for library materials collection development for books and audio-visual products for a period of two (2) years. Funding is available in the Library Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. Authorizing the City Manager to execute appraisal services contracts with: 1. State Certified, Independent, Real Estate Fee Appraisers: Associated Brokers Realty and Snyder & Associates, as property appraisers for a fee not to exceed $450.00 per appraisal and apartment complexes for a fee not to exceed $750.00 per appraisal. 2. John Perez Residential Appraisal Services, State Certified, Independent, Real Estate Fee Appraiser, as appraisals reviewer, for a fee not to exceed $350.00. 3. Santos & Associates, State Certified, Independent, Real Estate Fee Appraiser, as appraisals reviewer for a fee not to exceed $350.00 and apartment complex appraisals for a fee not to exceed $700.00. FAA requires that contracts be executed in order to continue the administration of the City of Laredo International Airport Noise Compatibility Program. Funding is available in the FAA Grant # 39, Appraisal Fees.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. Refund of property tax in the amount of $8,448.41 to the following taxpayers and companies: 1. A refund in the amount of $1,080.42 payable to Wells Fargo Real Estate Tax Service due to an erroneous payment. Account # 900-90311-137. 2. A refund in the amount of $1,083.95 payable to Lane Bryant Inc. #536 due to a decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board, Supplemental #8. 3. A refund in the amount of $3,849.96 payable to Team Iron Angel Ltd due to a decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board, Supplemental #8. 4. A refund in the amount of $1,668.94 payable to Double Seven Realty Group due to a decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board, Supplemental #8. 5. A refund in the amount of $765.14 payable to Maria Elena Romero due to a decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board, Supplemental #8.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amount to be adjusted for the month of April 2005 represents a decrease of $2,664.41. These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration to award a contract to Arcadis, Laredo, Texas in the amount of $79,900.00 for basic engineering services including a preliminary engineering report, surveys, design, and preparation of plans and specifications with cost estimates for the construction of a new lift station, a 24 inch gravity sanitary sewer line and 16 inch and10 inch force mains. The contract time is 90 calendar days. Funds are available in the Sewer Plant Improvements Project and in the 1998 Sewer Bond.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. STAFF REPORTS
40. A. Presentation by Red Oak Consulting on the completion of the Business Continuity Plan for the transition of city water and wastewater utilities.
Michael Wertz, Red Oak Consulting Consultant, gave the following presentation:
Business Continuity and Reentry Plan
Project Overview Business Continuity Recommendations
o Transition Checklist o On-Going Contract Compliance Monitoring o Transition Organization Structure o Phased Utility Enhancement
Project Goal
To develop a Business Continuity Plan that proactively manages the shift of the Utilities Department back to the City and ensures continuity of service for your employees and customers.
Project Objectives
o Establish a tactical framework for the orderly transition back to City management o Develop realistic recommendations that address the transfer of utility’s people, processes, and systems o Capture lessons-learned from both the City’s and United Water’s management strategies o Develop a transition guide in the areas of strategy, business processes, communication and organizational structure
Project Approach
Task 1 Kick off meeting Task 2 Information Gathering and Review Interviews Document Review Task 3 Additional information gathering Task 4 Organizational Diagnostic Task 5 Presentation of Recommendations
Project Deliverables
1. Transition Management Checklist 2. Transition Organization Structure 3. Recommendations for Phased utility Enhancements
Transition Management Checklist
Guides staff in completing the essential items necessary for effective transition. These items are categorized by areas of:
o Information Needs from United Water; o Communication; o Human Resources; o Operations; o Administration and Finance; o Legal; and o Customer Service.
Transition Organization Chart
Purpose
o Provides and overview of what the City-run utility will look like on May 6, 2005; o Serves as the Utility’s structure for the remainder of the fiscal year, allowing the City to remain within its approved budget; o Fulfills City objectives related to staff retention and; o Provides a structure that will allow for the greatest opportunity for smooth and efficient transition. o Minimize disruptions to day-to-day activities.
Methodology
Composed after an analysis of the previous City utility structure, the current United Water structure, industry best practices, and the goals of the City
Compiled within the context of our interviews with City personnel.
Enhancements recommended in the areas of:
o Organizational Development; o Customer Service Focus and Community Involvement; o Business Process Improvement.
Proposed Post-Transition Organization Structure Options for Future Organization Structure
Red Oak recommends that the utility work to implement the following key organizational enhancements:
Establish utility vision and mission; Establish 5-year goals, objectives and action items; Establish performance measures both utility-wide and per division
The utility should prioritize customer service and community involvement to establish positive relationships with customers. Doing so should include: Establish and publish aggressive yet attainable service levels: o Develop a dedicated customer service phone line linked to work order dispatch process; o Proactively communicate customer service and public involvement activities and promote progress towards goals; o Develop community outreach plan; o Stress the importance of customer service internally.
The continued sustainability of the utility is dependent upon strengthening the utilities business processes. Therefore the utility should:
o Evaluate methods for revenue enhancement; o Evaluate business processes and procedures for streamlining and improving effectiveness; o Develop asset management plan; o Conduct cost/benefit analysis for outsourced services; o Review staffing levels and structure in light of finalized performance measures, goals, and priorities.
Project Overview
Business Continuity Recommendations Transition Checklist Transition Organization Structure Phased utility Enhancement
B. Request to consider the removal of two (2) parking meters on Santa Ursula Ave. and Washington St., with possible action.
Jessica Hein, Assistant to City Manager, displayed a map that displays the location of the two parking meters on Santa Ursula Avenue and Washington Street.
Motion to remove the two parking meters on Santa Ursula Ave. and Washington Street.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Presentation by Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, regarding the presentation made to the Health and Benefits Committee on May 10, 2005, with possible action.
Dan Migura, Administrative Services Director, discussed a presentation that was made to the Health and Benefits Committee. He noted that the Committee has expressed a desire to submit a request for Request for Proposals for a possible cost savings to City employees. He noted that he would be working with the Council Committee to start the process of defining the RFP.
Cm. Garcia agreed that the Council Committee has the responsibility to go out for proposals by June 15, 2005 to assure that the City is receiving the best package.
Motion to go out for Request for Proposals for health benefits for the City of Laredo by June 15, 2005.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
41. A. Request by Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores
1. Discussion with possible action regarding the presentation of the City of Laredo's 250th Anniversary Commemorative Rifles to institutions for their public display in recognition of the City's 250th Celebration.
The Mayor read the following list for recommendations of places for displaying the 250th Anniversary Commemorative Rifles.
The Laredo Chamber of Commerce Texas A & M International University Laredo Community College The Catholic Diocese of Laredo The Webb County Courthouse The Webb County Heritage Foundation The Republic of the Rio Grande Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association The Laredo Center for the Arts The Laredo Development Foundation
Motion to display a Commemorative Rifle at the Webb County Courthouse.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to display a Commemorative Rifle at Republic of the Laredo Airport.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to display a Commemorative Rifle at the Republic of the Rio Grande.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia
1. Status report on the temporary street lights being placed on Casa Blanca Road and Bob Bullock
to alleviate traffic. Motion to table indefinitely.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Request by Council Member Gene Belmares
1. Discussion with possible action regarding the creation of a No Parking Zone on Livingston Drive, north and south of Shiloh.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, noted that staff does not recommend the creation of a No Parking Zone unless there is an issue with safety within the traffic flow. He added that the streets do not have a frontage and the no parking zone may influence drivers to park in the neighborhood.
Motion to create a No Parking Zone on Livingston Drive, north and south of Shiloh.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Valdez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Request by Council Member Jose A. Valdez, Jr.
1. Discussion with possible action regarding the creation of an Independent Grievance Committee made up of appointees by the Mayor and City Council for non civil service employees.
Motion to postpone indefinitely.
Moved: Cm. Valdez Against: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
E. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with possible action regarding the installation of 3-4 floodlights at the Civic Center to better illuminate the grass area adjacent to San Bernardo Avenue.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, suggested locating the funds from the Civic Center budget to see if it is possible to install three to four floodlights at the Civic Center to better illuminate the grass area adjacent to San Bernardo Avenue. He added that he would work with the request and if he had any problems he would return to Council for approve.
Horacio De Leon, Parks & Recreation Director, said that he has a proposal of $2,000 per light which will include the installation.
2. Status report on the resurfacing of San Bernardo Avenue from Scott Street to Jefferson Street, with possible action.
Larry Dovalina, City Manager, said that Council Member Ramirez has agreed to switch the streets that he has in the resurfacing program in order to resurface San Bernardo.
Motion to remove streets from the resurfacing program to focus on San Bernardo.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion with possible action regarding the Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks Display at the Civic Center and Veterans Field.
Cm. Ramirez expressed his desire to continue celebrating the fourth of July at the Civic Center and Veterans Field. He noted the importance of honoring the disabled Veterans. He added that he has distributed apple pie and ice cream for three years and he would love the opportunity to continue his tradition in District VIII.
Cm. Garcia explained that the firework event has been scheduled to take place in south Laredo. He added that there would be a huge July 4th celebration at the Civic Center on July 1st and July 2nd.
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 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.
42. Request for executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to deliberate the value of, and the possible purchase of a 2.4 acre parcel of real property near the Laredo Entertainment Center, for parking and other municipal purposes, because deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the City Council in negotiations with third persons; and return to open session for possible action and direction to staff.
Motion to go into executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to deliberate the value of, and the possible purchase of a 2.4 acre parcel of real property near the Laredo Entertainment Center, for parking and other municipal purposes, because deliberation in an open meeting would have a detrimental effect on the position of the City Council in negotiations with third persons; and return to open session for possible action and direction to staff.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session the Mayor announced that no formal action was taken.
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA M2005-S-07 I. MOTION
1. Authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with a qualified firm to initiate a financial feasibility and affordability analysis of entering into a take-or- pay agreement for a secondary source of water. The study is to be limited to a scope that will provide project feasibility independent of any source water locations and not to exceed an amount of $50,000.00. Funding is available in the Water Availability Fund, Construction Project Titled Ground Water Development.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Letter of Intent agreement with Grass Valley Water, L.P. (“Grass Valley Water”) that will authorize the City Manager to enter into non-exclusive, formal discussions and negotiations of terms related to Grass Valley Water’s proposal to sell source water located in Kinney County to the City of Laredo.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Consideration to approve the selection of a general contractor who has provided the best value proposal for the Los Obispos Phase I, to authorize the City Manager to enter into contract negotiations with a general contractor, and return to City Council at a later date for an award of contract.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 II. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
4. A. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez 1. Presentation regarding the Downtown Renaissance Redevelopment Project, with possible action. (Co-sponsored by Cm. John Galo)
Gary Skoen gave the following presentation:
City of Laredo – Downtown Renaissance El Portal Center, LLC Development Agreement
Summary of Proposed Terms
Development Components
The Laredo Outlet Stores Convention Center International Trade Center Hotel Parking Structure Transportation Plaza
El Portal Center, LLC
Constructs 70,000 – 100,000 square foot Convention Center and gives to City for $1.00 Contracts with the City to operate Convention Center Constructs 150,000 leasable square foot International Trade Center Constructs 175 – 225 room hotel Spends $30 Million to renovate the existing mall into Class A Outlet Center
Hotel
Exclusive provider of Food and Beverage concession for Convention Center Use of banquet and meeting rooms at a predetermined rate Use of 200 parking spaces
City
· Acquires property required for development of convention center, trade center, hotel and parking garage · Constructs and owns parking structure for 1,000 cars under Hotel, Convention Center, Trade Center, and connects to Outlet Center · Contributes air rights to El Portal above garage for Convention Center, Hotel and International Trade Center · Provides bridge between City Transportation Plaza at Salinas Bridge Retail Building
Post Construction Responsibility & Obligations
International Trade Center
Right to use banquet and meeting rooms Use of 300 parking spaces
Convention Center
Include banquet and meeting room space Right to use of banquet and meeting rooms
Outlet Center
Use of parking spaces at no cost for 5 hours with validation with standard rates thereafter
Benefits to the City of Laredo
o Continue Downtown revitalization created by City of Laredo Bridge of Americas project o Beautifies waterfront and provides spectacular views from all directions o Unifies Bridge of the Americas and other commercial developments o Generates significant economic development for the City of Laredo Entertainment Center
Job Creation Employees Property Tax Hotel Tax Parking Trade Center 300 $730,380 Hotel 125 $705,000 $613,000 Convention Center 30 $280,000 Parking Garage 10 $1,230,000 Totals 465 $1,435,380 $893,000 $1,230,000
Total Taxes $3,558,380 Total Revenue $3,558,380
Economic Summary
Trade Center 150,000 $20,900,000 Hotel 25,000,000 Convention Center * 85,000 10,000,000 Parking Garage* N/A 7,000,000 Total Project Cost $62,900,000
* To be owned by the City
Motion to instruct staff to work with the owners/developers of the downtown Renaissance El Portal Center, LLC Development noting that it is non exclusive.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Galo For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
III. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Time: 10:12 p.m.
Moved: Cm. Galo Second: Cm. Agredano 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 35 and they are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on May 16, 2005.
___________________________________ Gustavo Guevara, Jr. City Secretary |