CITY OF LAREDO

CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2005-R-21

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

November 7, 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, Council Member, District IV

Johnny Rendon Council Member, District V

Gene Belmares, Council Member, District VI

Jose A. Valdez, Jr., Mayor Pro Tem, District VII

Donna Magnon Deputy Secretary IV

Larry Dovalina, City Manager

Cynthia Collazo, Deputy City Manager

Horacio De Leon, Assistant City Manager

Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager

Jaime Flores, City Attorney

Motion to excuse Cm. Ramirez.

Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Agredano arrived at 5:57 p.m.

Mayor Flores asked for a moment of silence in memory of those Laredoans who passed away recently, including Mrs. Lucinda Sosa, Mr. Juan Calderon, and Mrs. Blanca Chapa.

IV. MINUTES

Approval of the minutes of August 25, 2005, September 6, 2005, and October 10, 2005.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

Announcements

Cm. Agredano expressed his gratitude to John Orfila, Public Works Manager, and the Public Works crew for placement of barricades along Clark Boulevard on October 31st. He also thanked the Laredo Police Department for their presence during Halloween night. He mentioned that this Friday is Veterans Day and he would like to point out that veterans are found in all walks of life. During this week, he encourages the citizens to attend events to be held throughout the city. He mentioned that it is only fitting that everyone set aside a day to honor these individuals.

Cm. Garcia thanked the people from Laredo who attended the Walk for ALS event in San Antonio. He mentioned that the Laredo participants contributed $40,000.00 of the $108,000.00 that was raised in San Antonio. He also congratulated the Nixon Mustangs football team for winning their fifth district title, the United Longhorns team for taking second place in their division, and the L.B. Johnson cross-country girls’ team who will be going to state competition. He also mentioned that the construction at the intersection of Clark Boulevard and Arkansas Avenue will be completed and the street will be opening up soon. He announced that the Laredo Women’s Commission is now accepting applications for the nominees for this year’s inductees to the Laredo Hall of Fame. Applications are available at City Hall and deadline for submission is December 1, 2005, at 5:00 p.m.

Cm. Galo stated that the community had tremendous support from the Laredo Police Department which made for a Halloween celebration that was fun and peaceful time. He also invited the community to attend any of the Veterans Day ceremonies that will be taking place around the city.

Cm. Amaya thanked the Laredo Police Department for their strong presence that watched over the trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. He also thanked the staff at all the Recreation Centers for the great work they do. He reported that the District IV Special Projects Committee will be having a steak plate sale to assist the senior citizens and the low-income families during the holiday season. He stated that the event will take place on Saturday, November 19, 2005, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the corner of Clark and Tilden.

Cm. Rendon thanked Police Chief Agustin Dovalina and the police officers for providing for a safe, peaceful Halloween celebration. He thanked John Orfila and the public works crew for the work done on the sidewalks on the east side of Retama subdivision. He also thanked Miguel Pescador, Parks and Recreation Director, for the wonderful job done in adding lighting at Taylor Park.

Cm. Belmares thanked John Orfila for the outstanding resurfacing job done on a portion of McPherson Road and along Regional Drive as well. He mentioned that the Trautmann Middle School football team has gone undefeated for two years.

Mayor Pro Tem Valdez announced that there was a ribbon-cutting ceremony recently for the new Junior-Senior League baseball park at the Father McNaboe Park. He thanked city staff and crews for the hard work that they have put in to get this project done. He thanked the Laredo Police Department and the Recreation Centers for the excellent job done during the festivities on Halloween night.

Mayor Flores read a portion of an article from the Dallas Morning News dealing with the problems along the Canadian-U.S. border such as border crossings, illegal immigration, and drug seizures.

a. Announcing Texas Recycles Day to be observed on November 15, 2005, and

announcing a collection event on November 12, 2005, as part of Texas Recycles Day that will allow all participants to be eligible for a chance to win several prizes.

Sylvia Garza, Recycling Coordinator, reported that the Solid Waste Department will coordinate an event with Southern Sanitation, a collection event on Saturday, November 12, 2005, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. She stated that there would be five drop-off sites to encourage everyone to bring in recycled material in the blue bags. For every bag of recycled items, the individual will have an opportunity to enter the drawing to be held on Tuesday, November 15, 2005.

Invitations

a. Tim Mata, Chairman of Feast of Sharing, and Bertha Mena, Co-chairman, would like to extend an invitation to the Laredo City Council to attend the H.E.B. Feast of Sharing Thanksgiving Dinner to be held on Sunday, November 20, 2005.

Mr. Tim Mata and Ms. Bertha Mena, Co-Chairs, extended an invitation for everyone to attend the 17^th Annual Feast of Sharing. It will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. They stated that there will be live entertainment inside and outside the Civic Center grounds. They both thanked the Mayor and City Council for the support provided through the years.

Recognitions

a. Recognition of Mario A. Gutierrez, of the Department of Community Development, on his selection as October 2005 Employee of the Month.

Erasmo Villarreal, Community Development Director, stated that Mario Gutierrez has been an exemplary employee since he was hired five years ago. He mentioned that his primary responsibility is to remove graffiti from public places, parks, overpasses, etc. Through his hard work, Mr. Gutierrez has impacted the low to moderate areas around the city by improving aesthetics. Mr. Villarreal also stated that he has always been an exemplary employee who also volunteers of his time with the elderly on the weekends.

b. Recognition of the Laredo Police Department, by the Eagle Pass Police Department, for their training provided on motorcycle patrolling.

Mr. Tony Castaneda, Eagle Pass Police Chief, expressed his gratitude to Chief Agustin Dovalina and the Laredo Police Department motorcycle officers for the training assistance provided to his officers during the summer.

c. Recognition of Teofilo Estevis Jr., Solid Waste Heavy Equipment Operator, for placing 1st in the Texas Division Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Road-E

O and earning 2nd place in the International Road-E-O.

Oscar Medina, Solid Waste Director, stated that there were several other Texas cities in the competition and Mr. Teofilo Estevis placed 1^st in the Scraper Division. Mr. Estevis then went on to compete in Hickory, North Carolina and defeated several cities such as Phoenix, Arizona.

Mayor and City Council presented Mr. Estevis with a Certificate of Recognition for his exceptional performance while representing the City of Laredo in the Texas and National Road E-O competitions.

d. Recognition of Rodolfo “Rudy” Alfonso Santos, recipient of the National Merit Scholarship Program, Commended Student Award. (Mayor Pro-Tempore Jose A. Valdez, Jr.)

Mayor Pro Tem Jose A. Valdez, Jr. stated that he recently learned that this young man is an exceptional student at Martin High School and he wanted to recognize his scholastic accomplishments at the City level.

Mayor Flores stated that Rodolfo Santos is a commended student due to his high SAT scores and excellent academic record. He will receive national recognition as a Hispanic high school student and will be identified for post-secondary institutions as part of the college board’s National Hispanic Recognition program.

Communiqués

a. Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores reports on the City of Laredo Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Department.

The Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau is the City’s destination marketing organization. The department’s activity is focused on promoting Laredo to generate tourism, increase hotel occupancy and create economic impact by attracting meetings, conventions, and groups. The department’s work has played a key role in maintaining Laredo’s hotel occupancy above the state average during the past four years. In the first quarter of 2005, Laredo came in second in the state of Texas with a healthy 69.3 % occupancy rate. During the second quarter, Laredo matched the occupancy percentage for the same period in 2004.

The Laredo Convention and Visitors Bureau places advertisements in more than 70 publications and media outlets across the United States and Mexico. Their efforts include billboards and electronic media such as television and radio. In the last 12 months, the bureau staff has traveled to 28 trade shows to distribute information and promote Laredo’s attractions before a wide variety of audiences, including sports, group tour, and the meeting markets. Laredo is present at the Texas Travel Fair, the Vacation Travel and Leisure shows, and Southwest Showcase, the NAAC Sports Symposium, the Expo Vacaciones and many other tourism industry shows every year. In addition, the bureau staff made six formal presentations before groups to solicit their conference business.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau hosts, promotes, and sponsors a long list of city festivals and events, including the Miss Texas USA pageant, which will be held through 2008. The Miss Texas USA pageant broadcast is a key opportunity for marketing that has allowed the department to promote Laredo through this Emmy-award winning television broadcast that reaches more than 9,000,000 viewers in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau also collaborates with WBCA to promote the historic celebration every year. In 2003, the department launched the Laredo International Sister Cities Festival. This unique event garnered the 2004 Best Overall Program award from the Sister City International organization, and in 2005, the festival achieved a record number of registered participants with 398 out-of-town exhibitors presenting 134 exhibit booths at the Civic Center.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau staff assembles and mails thousands of information packets to interested tourists all around the country every month. During the last fiscal year, the department serviced over 32,000 inquiries. These requests for information reach the department via Internet, brochure requests, and phone calls. In recent months, the department has developed several strategic publicity opportunities including a feature about the Sister Cities Festival in Convention South Magazine, a six-page article about Laredo in the U.S. issue of Mexico Desconocido, and numerous mentions in tourism Web sites.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau also develops sales missions to promote Laredo before special groups. In April, department staff traveled to Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, and San Luis Potosi where it promoted Laredo before 200 travel agents and tourism representatives. The annual Cinco de Mayo reception is held in Austin to promote Laredo before meeting planners that represent an important source of conventions and conferences for this city. A Convention and Visitors Bureau Christmas sales list is scheduled in Austin every year in December.

Over 25 meetings were held in Laredo during the past 12 months, including some important conferences. Just last week, the Texas Downtown Association spent three nights in Laredo discussing downtown revitalization and learning about Laredo’s development. Each of these conferences receives extensive coordination and multiple services from staff, including assistance with group accommodations, conference pre-planning, site inspections, registrations, transportation, tours, meals, etc.

More than 50 welcome receptions were hosted by the department in 2005 and they also received many requests for the famous “Ojo Rojo” recipe. Familiarization tours for travel agents and media are hosted by the department. A group of five U. K. journalists visited Laredo last month and 12 travel riders from Mexico were hosted during the Sister Cities Festival in January.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau staff distributed more than 40,000 promotional items to visitors, tourists, and trade show attendees in 2005. This effort is part of the department’s hospitality service. An additional 10,000 welcome bags with Laredo literature were provided to a long list of qualified tour groups, conference attendees, association members, and special event participants who visited Laredo in 2005. They also distributed over 135,000 Laredo-Nuevo Laredo Visitor Guide pamphlets throughout the United States last year. This is the department’s key marketing tool and staff coordinates its distribution to all 12 Texas Travel Information Centers.

The staff is ready to serve an increased number of hotels in 2006 – the recent opening of Residence Inn, the renovation of the downtown La Posada Hotel, and other upcoming openings of new hotels. The City of Laredo will also host the International Hispanic Network Conference in April, 2006. In addition, department staff has successfully competed against other destinations to book the largest conference ever to be held in Laredo: the Regent 10 Catholic Youth Conference. This event will be held November, 2006, and will bring more than 4,500 youth, chaperones and group leaders to Laredo. The number of tourism industry investment and special events taking place in Laredo points to the successful promotional efforts of this department and all its partners.

VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

None.

VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Individual Public Hearings for the voluntary annexation of ten (10) tracts of land :

· Tract 1: San Isidro Northeast Tract– 440.32 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 2: Killam Ranch Tract– 13.00 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 3: Hurd Ranch I Tract – 92.13 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

· Tract 4: Hurd Ranch II Tract – 37.26 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

· Tract 5: Hector Gaona Tract – 0.33 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Belmares

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 6: Rolando Gaona Tract – 0.74 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 7: Las Misiones Tract – 0.71 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 8: Carrasco Tract -23.39 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Amaya was not present.

· Tract 9: E. G. Ranch Tract – 222.28 acres, more or less;

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Galo

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

· Tract 10: Tanquecitos Tract – 37.65 acres, more or less,

for a total of 867.81 acres, more or less, as described in the attached tract

summaries, as required by Section 43.063 of the Texas Local Government Code.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1

Cm. Garcia

2. Public hearing allowing interested persons to comment on the proposed amendment to

the 2004 Consolidated One Year Action Plan by reprogramming a total of $45,000.00 of 30th Action Year (AY) 2004 Program Income funds allocated to Community Development Reserve Appropriation and utilizing the $45,000.00 to allow for acquisition, design, and construction of a new activity, the proposed Central Laredo Senior Citizen Center.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Galo was not present.

3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Street Name Map of the City of

Laredo by renaming Southgate Blvd., Lomas Del Sur Blvd.; providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the amendment of the Street Name Map.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Mr. Dan Myers, local developer, stated that this is a 330-acre tract in Southgate subdivision. They have completed Phase I and their immediate goal is the widening and beautification of Southgate Boulevard.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Agredano

4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance adopting Article 102.0045, Texas Code of

Criminal Procedure, as added by Senate Bill 1704, “Court Cost to Reimburse Counties for Cost of Juror Services” and amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 20, Section 20-37 by adding Subsection (i); and providing for severability, effective date and publication.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Garcia

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance adopting Chapter 133, Subchapter C, Sec.

133.105 (a)(b)(c), Local Government Code, as added by House Bill 11 “Fee for Support of Court-Related Purposes”, and amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 20, Section 20-37 by adding Subsection (j); and providing for severability, effective date and publication.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo’s Code of

Ordinances, Chapter 2, Article II, Sec. 2-16, which sets forth the Departments of the City, by restructuring the Engineering/Public Works Department whereby the Public Works Division will become the Public Works Department and renaming the Engineering/Public Works Department to Engineering Department; and by restructuring the Planning and Zoning Department whereby the Building Inspections Division will become the Building Services Department; and whereby renaming the Administrative Services Department to the Human Resources Department; the Management Information Systems Department the Information Technology and Support Services Department; and the Landfill/Sanitation Department the Solid Waste Department; and providing for an effective date.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Valdez

Second: Cm. Belmares

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

7. Second public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2004-O-087

by authorizing the granting to Batista Roman Enterprises, Inc., (a non-exclusive franchise commercial container service provider in the City of Laredo, Texas), an increase in service rates due to fuel and equipment price increases; and amending the franchise agreement to include Batista Roman Enterprises, Inc., dba Orange Waste Management.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager’s acceptance of

a grant from the Texas Forest Service in the amount of $2,000.00 with $2,000.00 in matching funds for a total of $4,000.00 and amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2005-2006 Annual Budget for the Keep Laredo Beautiful (KLB) Fund by appropriating the said grant revenue to the appropriate expenditure accounts. Matching monies are available in the KLB account. The grant funds will be used for the ShadeMasters NeighborWoods Program for the purchase of trees.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Rendon

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year

2005 – 2006 full-time equivalent positions by creating one (1) full-time Community Service Aide position with benefits in lieu of three (3) contractual positions in the Immunization Action Plan Program beginning September 1, 2005 – August 31, 2006. Funding is available in program income.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Garcia was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Rendon

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

10. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend the

City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006 Annual Budget by increasing revenues and expenditures of $39,552.00 in additional funds totaling $105,471.00 from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP); extending the grant period nine additional months, from September 1, 2004 - August 31, 2006; and authorizing the City Manager to execute said contract.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Rendon

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Garcia was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Garcia was not present.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

11. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2005-

2006 full-time equivalent positions by reclassifying (3) three firefighter positions to three fire captain positions for the EMS Division. Funding for these positions is available in the Fire Department Operating Budget in the amount of $59,971.79.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Garcia was not present.

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

12. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the FY 2005-2006 Annual

Operating Budget for Keep Laredo Beautiful by accepting four (4) donations: $500.00 from Westwind Development; $499.00 from Wells Fargo for the purchase of oak trees; and donations of $150.00 from Falcon International Bank and $100.00 from G.A. Palacios Construction for the purchase of food for the volunteers during the Make a Difference Day Project at Trautmann Park.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Garcia

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

13. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2005 – 2006

Communication System Fund Annual Budget by adding one (1) full-time equivalent position and appropriating revenues and expenditures in the total amount of $94,311.00 to pay personnel and operating expenses associated with the 800 MHz trunked radio communication system. Funding is available from the various user departments.

Motion to open the public hearing.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

14. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006

Annual Operating Budget in the Fire Prevention and Arson Fund Budget by accepting a donation of $2,500.00 from Wal-Mart Stores and appropriating said funds for purchasing fire safety educational promotional materials for the Fire Prevention Division.

Motion to open the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Belmares

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

There was no public input.

Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

VIII. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

15. Authorizing the City Manager to amend the airport advertising license with In-Ter-

Space Services, Inc., d/b/a Interspace Airport Advertising and Display, as Concessionaire, authorized by Ordinance No. 97-O-303 dated December 15, 1997, and as amended by Ordinance No. 2000-O-290 dated November 27, 2000. The proposed amendment will amend Section 7 (A) “Annual License Fees”, subsection (2) “Percentage of Annual Gross Receipts” and Section 7(D) “Definition of Gross Receipts, subsection (2) shall hereby be amended by adding subsection “f”. This amendment will generate additional revenues to the Airport Fund. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged and in effect; providing for an effective date.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

16. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Permit and Right of Entry for Access

Agreement by an Off-Airport Rental Car Business with Gateway Rent-A-Car d/b/a Hertz Rent-A-Car, as Permittee, at the Laredo International Airport. Term shall be for nine (9) months commencing on October 1, 2005, and ending on June 30, 2006. Permittee shall pay $1,200.00 per year plus six percent (6%) of gross receipts derived from commercial activity at the airport; providing for an effective date.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

17. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Foreign-Trade Zone Operations Agreement

with Valls International (Laredo) Inc., as Zone Site Operator, covering 15,816 square feet of activated space located at 302 Grand Central Blvd., Foreign Trade Zone Site 1-A effective December 1, 2005 and ending November 1, 2006, with two (2) options to renew ending on November 1, 2007 and November 1, 2008. Providing activation, administration and transaction fees be paid to the City; providing for an effective date.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

18. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to effectively convey

fee simple title to Zita Martha Mendez, the “Surface Only”, at its market value of $5,775.00 for certain property described as a 2,100.09 sq. ft. tract of land, more or less, out of that former section of Malinche Avenue between Pecan and San Salvador Streets said property being situated in the Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas, being described on attached Exhibit “A”, and providing for an effective date.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

19. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a License Agreement with Nextel WIP Lease

Corp., a Delaware Corporation d/b/a Nextel Partners for space at the South Laredo Elevated Water Storage Tank located at 2106 Mexico Ave., Laredo, Webb County, Texas and being more fully described in Exhibit “A” of License Agreement, for the installation and operation of certain antennae facilities for use in connection with its communications business and a parcel of land within the Owned Premises for the location of an equipment building and related facilities associated with the Antennae Facilities. Term of the lease is five (5) years commencing November 21, 2005 and ending November 20, 2010 with four (4) successive renewal terms of five (5) years. Annual base rent shall be $15,000.00 each year during the terms of the lease and will be increased by five percent (5%) on each anniversary of the commencement date, providing for effective date.

Ordinance Introduction: City Council

IX. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES

Motion to waive the final reading of Ordinance # 2005-O-262; # 2005-O-263; # 2005-O-264; # 2005-O-265; # 2005-O-266; # 2005-O-267; # 2005-O-268; #2005-O-269; # 2005-O-270; # 2005-O-271; #2005-O-272; # 2005-O-273; # 2005-O-274; # 2005-O-275; # 2005-O-276; #2005-O-277; # 2005-O-278; # 2005-O-279; # 2005-O-280; # 2005-O-281; # 2005-O-282; and #2005-O-283.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

20. 2005-O-262 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

all of Block 488, Western Division, located at the 1100 block of San Ignacio Ave., from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-2 (Mixed Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-262.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-263 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

3.28 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit

“A”, located south of Riverhill Loop, 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-263.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-264 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

Lot 1, Block 2, Alexander Commercial Subdivision Phase I, located at

7614 Rocio Drive, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3

(Community Business District); providing for publication and effective

date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-264.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-265 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by

authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a thrift store and food services

on Lots 1 - 8, Block 129, Eastern Division, located at 101 East San Jose

Street; providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-265.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-266 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

26.44 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit

“A” and located north of Pita Mangana Road, from R-1MH (Single-Family

Manufactured Housing District) to R-1A (Single-Family Reduced Area

District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-266.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-267 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

4.28 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit

“A” and located on the north side of Pita Mangana Road, from R-1MH (Single-Family Manufactured Housing District) to B-1 (Limited Commercial District); providing for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-267.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-268 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by

authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for two (2) manufactured homes as

temporary housing on 18.65 acres and Lots 1 through 7, Block 1, Del Mar

Hills Subdivision Section 1, located at 10 Del Mar Boulevard; providing

for publication and effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-268.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-269 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by rezoning

Lot 5, Block 1, Trautmann M & I Subdivision Unit I, located at 8601

McPherson Road, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3

(Community Business District); providing for publication and effective

date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-269.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-270 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by a 1.831

acre tract out of Lot 1, Block 1, Rancho Verde Subdivision, located at

9652 McPherson Road, as further described by metes and bounds in

attached Exhibit “A”, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3

(Community Business District); providing for publication and effective

date. As Amended.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-270.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-271 Amending the Zoning Ordinance Map of the City of Laredo by

authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a bar on Lot 1, Block 1, Rancho

Verde Subdivision, located at 9652 McPherson Road; providing for

publication and effective date. As Amended.

Motion to adopt ordinance with the amendment that they must have a full service kitchen which must stay open until 10:00 p.m.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-272 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006 Annual Budget by

increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $8,463.00 in

additional funds, for a total of $26,352.00 from the Texas Department of

State Health Services for the Binational TB Card Pilot Project of the City

of Laredo Health Department and extending the grant period of November

1, 2004 through September 30, 2005 to November 1, 2004 through

December 31, 2005.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-272.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-273 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a payment of $56,350.00 from

South Texas Paving Company, Laredo, Texas, in lieu of dedication of

1.61 acres of park land in Woodridge Heights Subdivision as required by

the City of Laredo Annexation Service Plan; and amending the Fiscal

Year 2005 – 2006 Capital Improvements Fund to appropriate revenues

and expenditures in the amount of $56,350.00, provided by South Texas

Paving Company for park improvements in the Village Heights

Subdivision. As Amended.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-273.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-274 Amending the City of Laredo’s Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006 Annual Budget by

transferring (1) one Administrative Assistant II position from the Juvenile

Accountability Incentive Block Grant (JAIBG) to the Laredo Police

Departments General Fund 101-2320 Division. Funding to pay for the

salary and fringe benefits is available from within the Laredo Police

Department Operating Budget.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-274.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-275 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006 Annual Budget by

appropriating expenditures in the amount of $537,900.00 in the Laredo

Police Department Trust Fund. Funding will be used to purchase

operational materials and supplies and capital outlay equipment. Items

include tactical vehicles, video time lapse analysis system, surveillance

equipment, computer support equipment and maintenance, drug K-9 dogs,

and other needed items. Funding is available in the Police Trust Fund. As

Amended.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-275.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-276 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Humberto Aguilera

for approximately 996 square feet constituting Building No. 193 located at

5301 Maher Avenue at the Laredo International Airport. Lease term is for

five (5) years commencing on October 1, 2005, and ending on September

30, 2010. However, it is agreed by the parties that the lease may be

terminated by either party upon giving a one hundred and eighty (180) day

notice from the party terminating to the other. Monthly rent shall be

$825.00 and shall be adjusted annually according to changes in the

Consumer Price Index. Mr. Humberto Aguilera was the successful bidder

meeting all bid specifications.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-276.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0:

2005-O-277 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with Ronny Salamon

d/b/a Avionics Services International for approximately 6,174 square feet

constituting Building No. 1338 located at 4015 North Jarvis Avenue at the

Laredo International Airport. Lease term is for five (5) years commencing

on October 1, 2005 and ending on September 30, 2010. However, it is

agreed by the parties that the lease may be terminated by either party upon

giving a one hundred and eighty (180) day written notice. Monthly rent

shall be $1,503.00 and will be adjusted annually accordingly to changes in

the Consumer Price Index. Mr. Ronny Salamon was the successful bidder

meeting all bid specifications.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-277.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-278 Amending Ordinance No. 2002-O-047 and No. 2004-O-050 by dividing

Precinct 345 into two (2) voting precincts to be numbered voting precincts

345 and 359; and by dividing voting precinct 446 into two (2) voting

precincts to be numbered voting precincts 446 and 458; providing for

publication and providing for an effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-278.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-279 Ordering and proclaiming a Special City Election to fill a vacancy for

Council Member for District VII to be held on Saturday, February 4,

2006, designating polling places, designating the runoff date; and

authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with the Webb

County Elections Administrator; and providing for publication.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-279.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-280 Accepting funding through a grant under Fiscal Year 2005 – 2006 Pre-

Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grant Program approved by the Federal

Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Texas in the

amount of $97,640.00. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the cost

($73,230.00) will be provided by the grant and the remaining twenty-five

percent (25%) of the cost ($24,410.00) will be an in-kind match from the

City of Laredo. This is to fund a project that will develop a comprehensive

Hazard Mitigation Action Plan for the City of Laredo.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-280.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-281 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease with St. Patrick’s Church

of a parcel of land of 3,455.00 square foot (0.0793 acre) located at the

corner of Fenwick and Del Mar, as described in Exhibit A of Exhibit 1

attached hereto, for a term of 10 years at a monthly rent of $25.00; and

providing for effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-281.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-282 Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary documents to

effectively convey a twelve (12)-foot-wide Easement and Right-of-Way

to AEP Texas Central Company for the installation of a three (3)-phase in-

line pole to serve Fire Station No. 14 on Cielito Lindo Boulevard. Said

twelve (12)-foot-wide Easement and Right-of-way containing 1,925.48

square feet (0.0442 of an acre), out of Lot No. 2, Block No. 3, of the

Cielito Lindo Commercial Plat, recorded in Volume 23, page 56, of the

Map Records of Webb County, Texas, being described on attached

Exhibit A; and providing for an effective date.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-282.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2005-O-283 Establishing guidelines and criteria governing tax abatements by the City

of Laredo; providing for severability; providing for an effective date and

publication.

Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2005-O-283.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

X. RESOLUTIONS

21. 2005-R-115 Accepting the donation of one parcel of land as a Utility Easement from

the United Independent School District for the North American Development Bank Water Distribution Project, said parcel containing 0.61 acres, more or less, out of Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, Colonia Los Presidentes, Unit I, as recorded in Volume 7, Page 33, Webb County Plat Records; and described by Metes and Bounds and Survey attached as Exhibits A and B.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-115.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

22. 2005-R-117 Accepting the donation of one utility easement from Abel Martinez for the

extension of utility service lines to the San Carlos Subdivision, Phase I. This being a strip of land 15.00 feet in width, containing 1,801.12 square feet or 0.041 of an acre, more or less, over and across Lot 8, Block 3, as recorded in volume 4, page 34, plat records, Webb County, Texas, and described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibits A and B.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-117.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

23. 2005-R-118 Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Interlocal Agreement

between the County of Zapata for the daily disposal of garbage at the City of Laredo landfill site at a reduced rate of thirty ($30.00) dollars per ton for a ten (10)-month term, effective March 1, 2006.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-118.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

24. 2005-R-119 Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Interlocal Agreement

between the County of Jim Hogg for the daily disposal of garbage at the City of Laredo landfill site at a reduced rate of thirty ($30.00) dollars per ton for a one (1)-year term, effective December 8, 2005.

Motion to approve Resolution # 2005-R-119.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XI. MOTIONS

25. Consideration for approval of the selection of consultant Harry Jewett Associates,

Laredo, Texas, for the Flecha Lane Drainage Improvements and authorization to negotiate a professional services contract. Funding is available in the 2005 CO Bond National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).

Motion to deny.

Moved: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

26. Consideration for approval to award a construction contract to LEH Contractors, Inc.,

San Antonio, Texas, in the amount not to exceed $862,900.00 for the Los Obispos Unit-5, Remediation Project, Phase III. Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund – Los Obispos Housing Project.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

27. Consideration to authorize three (3) Dictaphone voice recorders through the Houston

Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC) for three (3) Public Safety Answering Points (Roma Police Department, Starr County Sheriff’s Office, and Zapata County Sheriff’s Office) for a total amount not to exceed $45,000.00. Funding is available in the 9-1-1 Regional Fund.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

28. Consideration to authorize the purchase of computers through the State of Texas –

Department of Information Resources (DIR) cooperative purchase contracts, for City Departments. Funding is available in the respective Departments’ Budgets.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

29. Authorizing the City Manager to reject the sole bid received in response to the “FY 06 -005-Municipal Recreation Food and Beverage Service” bid proposal to provide

concession service at Benavides Softball Complex, Veterans Field, and local municipal

pools and authorize staff to solicit new proposals. The sole bid received was incomplete.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

30. Authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with Daniel D.

Wyers – A & W Development for the reconstruction of an existing monument sign, located on the City of Laredo Right-of-Way, at the intersection of U.S. Highway 83 South and Southgate Blvd. Developer will be responsible for sign expenses.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

31. Consideration to award contract number FY06-012 to the low bidders, RM Personnel,

Inc., Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $189,847.72 and Staff Force, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $14,804.40 for providing contract employees for the Solid Waste, Police, Traffic Safety, and Convention and Visitors Bureau. Temporary contract employees have been requested for office clerks, refuse collectors/litter abatement, and custodial positions. Funding is available in the respective departmental budgets.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

32. Consideration to award contract number FY06-008 to the low bidders, J.C. Twiss

Company, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $64,192.00; Mike’s Western Wear, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $1,112.85; and Iron Age, San Antonio, Texas, in estimated amount of $920.00 for the purchase of safety footwear for city maintenance personnel. Each department will have the option to choose the type of boot best suited for the work environment and budget allocation. All safety footwear is purchased on an as needed basis from the respective departmental budgets. The contract amounts are estimates based on historical usage. Funding is available in the respective departmental budgets.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

33. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for one additional year for contract

number FY04-105, for the purchase of general office supplies awarded to the low bidders, Patria Office Supply, Laredo, Texas and Executive Office Supply, Laredo, Texas. Departments will be able to order from the vendors’ general catalogs. Funding is available in the office supply line item budgets of the respective departments.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

34. Refund of property tax in the amount of $2,865.23 to the following taxpayers and

companies:

1. A refund in the amount of $2,292.45 payable to Eliud Acevedo, MD, due to a

decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board.

Account # 947-10001-021.

2. A refund in the amount of $572.78 payable to Humberto J. & Idalia R. Leal due

to a decrease in value as certified by the Webb County Appraisal Review Board. Account #945-00851-394.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

35. Consideration to award annual contract FY06-009 to the low bidder, JJJ International &

Safety, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $139,394.00 for providing traffic marking paint for the Traffic Department – Safety Division and the Airport Department. This contract establishes the unit pricing for traffic paint and glass beads used for street and runway/taxiway striping for a one-year period. All items will be purchased on an as needed basis. Funding will be available in the Traffic Safety and Airport-Grounds Maintenance budget.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

36. Authorizing the City Manager to establish a maximum limit of $1,000.00 per

household for utility assistance under the Homeless Prevention Program; and authorizing the City Manager to enter into contracts awarding 2005 Emergency Shelter Grant funds (ESG) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the following:

1. $50,000.00 to Sacred Heart Children’s Home for the operation of the shelter;

2. $20,000.00 to Catholic Social Services for homeless prevention assistance;

3. $26,893.00 to Catholic Social Services of Laredo, Inc. (CSSL) for operation of La

Frontera Halfway House;

4. $15,500.00 to the Laredo Homeless Coalition (LHC) for operation of the Guadalupe

and Lilia Martinez Resource Center;

5. $33,600.00 to the Laredo Homeless Coalition to provide essential services;

6. $10,000.00 to Bethany House for homeless prevention assistance.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

37. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an electric supply agreement for retail electric

services for a period of one or two years depending on the bid pricing. The recommended provider will be announced at the City Council meeting. The City will accept bid pricing on Monday, November 11, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. Retail electric providers will generally not hold their contract pricing for longer than twenty four hours due to the volatile market condition. Funding is available in the respective departments subject to continued appropriation of funding in future fiscal years.

Cm. Galo inquired what the offer was from the other company, STAPP.

Rosario Cabello, Finance Director, reported that she spoke to Bill Starnes, consultant, to inquire about their bidding process. She also mentioned that Laredo is not part of their load at this time.

Motion to continue negotiating a two-year contract with the two top providers: GLO and Hino Electric for the lowest, best and final offer. The contract should allow the City of Laredo to be able to renegotiate the rate twice within the two-year contract.

Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Valdez

Second: Cm. Galo

For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

Cm. Agredano was not present.

38. Consideration to award a two (2) year professional services contract (FY05-114) to

A.G. Pellegrin, M.D., to perform drug and alcohol testing pursuant to the City’s Drug and Alcohol Policy. All services are requested on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the health benefits budget of the Employee Health Division.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

39. Consideration for approval of Change Order No. 2, a decrease of $5,000.00 for the

miscellaneous allowance; acceptance of the Asbestos Abatement Schedule 1 for the Laredo International Airport Building numbers 1228,1429,1430,1431,1432,1169,123, 861, and 979; and approval of final payment in the amount of $19,336.87 to Jupe Environmental, San Antonio, Texas. Final construction contract is $193,368.70. Funding is available in the Airport Fund-Purchased Professional Services/Demolition Costs.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

40. Consideration for approval of Change Order No. 3, a decrease of $5,000.00 for the

miscellaneous allowance; acceptance of the Demolition Schedule 2 for the Laredo International Airport Building numbers 1228,1169, 1331,123, 979, 1429,1430,1431,1432 plus Alternates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10 for building slab removal; and approval of final payment in the amount of $31,132.10 to Access Environmental, San Antonio, Texas. Final construction contract amount is $311,321.00. Funding is available in the Airport Fund- Purchased Professional Services/Demolition Costs.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0:

41. Consideration for approval to award a construction contract to the low bidder, Rhino

Builders, Ltd., Laredo, Texas, in the base bid amount of $450,695.00 for the Santa Maria Avenue Reconstruction Project (Industrial Blvd. to Del Mar Blvd.) Funding is available in the Transit Tax and Revenue CO 2004.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

42. Award a contract to Arcadis, Laredo, Texas for $49,548.00 to survey the additional

easements for the Colonias Los Minerales, Rancho Penitas West and on several parcels of land in between the two colonias. This project is funded by the North American Development Bank (NADB).

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

43. Consideration for approval to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder Ramos

Industries, Inc. Pasadena, Texas, in the amount of $1,625,711.00 for the Ejido Avenue Extension (Pita Mangana Boulevard – Chacota Street) Project. Funding is available in the Community Development Fund CD Projects/Ejido Street Extension – 27th and 30th Action Year/ 2001 and 2004 Grant.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

44. Authorizing the City Manger to enter into a contract agreement with Cambridge

Systematics, Inc. in association with Alliance Transportation Group, Inc. at a cost of $89,999.65, for the performance of a Hazardous Cargo Community Risk Assessment and Route Alternative Analysis. Funding is available in the Bridge System Fund.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

45. Amending a contract with HNTB Architects Engineers Planners, San Antonio, Texas

for $26,106.77 to include additional basic engineering and surveying services required to oversize the water and wastewater lines at D-5 Acres, Laredo Ranchettes, Carlos I, Ranchitos East, and Los Altos on HWY 359 – Work Order #3. The amendment brings the total contract amount to $474,431.93. Funding is available in the Colonias Project Engineer Fees.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

46. Motion to reschedule the regular City Council meeting of December 5, 2005 to

December 12, 2005.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

47. Authorization to re-advertise for bids for the Los Obispos Unit 5, Remediation Project,

Phase II. Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XII. STAFF REPORTS

48. A. A presentation by Rafael Garcia, Jr., regarding a multi year lease for Bridge of the

Americas, Building E, consisting of approximately 32,542 sq. ft. of unfinished retail space, with the sole bidder El Portal Bridge Retail, L.P., a joint venture between El Portal Center, LLC owned by Horizon Group Properties, Inc., Morgan Stern Realty Holdings and Laredo Duty Free Partners, LLC, an affiliate of Duty Free Americas that operates UETA Duty Free Stores, with possible action.

Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager, reported that staff met last week with the Downtown Redevelopment Committee to review the contract which agreed on some recommended changes. He stated that one of the recommended changes by Cm. Ramirez was to add a security deposit of $300,000.00 to the contract. He added that staff would now like to receive direction from City Council as to the recommended changes to the contract in order to send it to the retail group for final negotiations.

Cm. Galo inquired whether that letter dated October 21, 2005, was sent to the retail group.

Rafael Garcia replied that staff has not sent it and they have not had any contact with the group. He mentioned the reason being that city staff has been criticized in the past for not coming to City Council to advise them of things that city staff is doing. He would like to receive direction from City Council as to what exactly they prefer staff should do.

Cm. Galo stated that on page 7 they have a limit of the improvements that could be done annually of $100,000.00. He inquired why the City has a limit on the improvements that the tenants could do.

Jaime Flores, City Attorney, stated that Assistant City Attorney Jerry Cain has done a limited review of the contract, but Mr. Robert Barnstone was the attorney who had been retained by the City to work on the contract.

Cm. Belmares stated that City Council should make the public aware that the issue with this particular attorney is that Mr. Barnstone’s license has been suspended. He wanted to make it known to the public that the City did not hire someone who was not licensed at the time. He mentioned that his concern was whether there would be any legal impact to the City based on this development.

Jaime Flores stated that he checked with the State Bar of Texas today and verified that Mr. Barnstone is not licensed to practice law in Texas. He added that Mr. Barnstone was administratively suspended September 1, 2005, for failure to pay membership dues and the attorney occupational tax. He stated that he did not know the extent of legal advice that the attorney had provided to the City.

Cm. Belmares stated that it would be incumbent upon City Council to have the Legal Department review the contract thoroughly.

Rafael Garcia stated that the dilemma is whether staff should make contact with the individuals without first getting the final recommendations from City Council.

Motion to authorize the City Manager to proceed with negotiations with the sole bidder El Portal Bridge Retail, L. P.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Rendon

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XIII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

49. A. Request by Council Member John C. Galo

1. Discussion with possible action on requiring all street vendors to wear ID badges.

Dr. Hector Gonzalez, Health Director, reported that the department has been looking at automating the permitting division and developing a picture identification card to avoid sharing among vendors. He would like to attach this provision to the current street vendors ordinance in order to be able to implement this requirement.

Cm. Galo inquired whether there were any legal ramifications that might develop from excluding certain individuals from obtaining this type of permit.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that there should not be any problems if it is included in the ordinance to allow for background checks.

Motion to amend the existing ordinance to reflect that the City would require all street vendors to obtain identification badges and background checks.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain:

2. Discussion with possible action on requiring all real estate transactions

(including airport) to go through one central real estate office and further developing procedures to sell or lease those properties.

Cynthia Collazo, Deputy City Manager, reported that in the early years when Community Development started their real estate projects, staff was dealing with monies acquired through CDBG funds. In this particular case, when they refer to the Real Estate Division, they are talking about acquisition projects made available through funding provided for Community Development projects which have strict federal guidelines. They had worked some leases but mostly those leases were, for example, for CAA Head Start building leases. Currently, in coordinating many of the activities with the departments, the Real Estate Division works closely with the departments because they are the ones who know exactly what is required. Right now, they are working with the Legal Department attorney who provides oversight for the different departments. However, there are specific duties that fall under the responsibility of the department staff member that handles leases. The Real Estate Division then handles the negotiations for the particular department.

Cm. Galo inquired about the properties that the City could potentially lease or sell. Even if it is strictly for medical facilities development or even if the City needs to donate the lease, the City would have that parameter. He mentioned that the City is not out there advertising the properties. There are no “For Sale” signs, no values listed, no appraisals, etc. He suggested that he would like to have these properties listed, annual appraisals prepared.

Jose Flores, Airport Director, provided an explanation as to the DEA building lease and other pending leases. He mentioned that the posted sign does have a price shown. He mentioned that not all the properties have prices shown. He explained that in July, 2005, the City solicited bids on several bids which were advertised in the newspaper.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, explained that the City has certain tracts of land and one in particular that has an appraisal. He stated that there are those tracts of land that either City Council has given previous authorization to move forward for Request for Proposals and the staff does have the appraisals for those. Then there are those other properties that a Council Member or committee members have expressed an interest in. He mentioned that there was an airport committee meeting that he attended recently where they discussed this particular topic on how to move forward in wanting to determine which tracts of land would be leased/sold. He added that there is an Airport Master Plan that is moving forward at the same time. He explained that the Airport Subcommittee is also reviewing the architectural standards that the City would like to see on the buildings as they are being leased or constructed so they can have a uniform standard for the buildings.

Blas Martinez, committee member, stated that the Airport Committee had a meeting today and one of the items discussed was to find a better approach as to how the City would deal with its properties. He mentioned that the Laredo International Airport has a total of 2,000 acres of which 70 acres remain that can either be sold or leased. He mentioned that they have taken their queue from City Council and they have attempted to round off what they have and create facilities that would be in compliance with the aesthetics of the area and also develop places which could generate more monies for the City.

Cm. Galo mentioned that he is not asking to change the mode of operations of the Airport Committee. He added that he is pleased to see that certain tracts of land are being developed for medical use in that area and he would like to promote the tracts even further. He would like to provide a central phone number where all interested people could call to obtain information on all the properties that the City has available.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that the City recently finished an extensive demolition program. He mentioned that the Airport Committee members had asked Airport staff not to continue doing the leasing until they finished the architectural standards that the members were working on.

Cm. Galo mentioned that he would like to see all the properties listed on the City’s web site.

Larry Dovalina, City Manager, stated that staff will list all the properties on the City’s web page and also scroll them under the Public Access Channel.

Mr. Jesus Longoria, real estate agent, stated that in reference to airport leases, information is always made available to all real estate agents.

Cm. Galo stated that he is merely asking that the memo be amended to allow for a posted sign to be placed on any property that the property is for sale or for lease prior to the City goes out for negotiations.

Motion to amend the memo to allow for a posted sign to be placed on those public properties that are available for sale or lease.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Belmares

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

3. Discussion with possible action regarding the vacant Utilities Director position.

Cm. Galo stated that he understand that the City has an Interim Director and he would hope that someone would be hired as Utilities Director soon.

Mayor Flores stated that the City Council will not take any action on this item because, as per the City Charter, they do not deal with hiring or firing practices.

B. Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya

1. Discussion with possible action regarding the resurfacing of Albert Ochoa Tennis

Courts in the amount of $6,300.00 to be financed by CIP District IV Discretionary Funds.

Motion to approve the resurfacing of Albert Ochoa Tennis Courts in the amount of $6,300.00 to be financed by CIP District IV Discretionary Funds.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

C. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez

1. Discussion with possible action regarding the installation of a street light on the

1900 Block of San Leonardo.

Motion to postpone.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

2. Discussion on providing for two-way traffic on Santa Rita Avenue between

Lincoln Street and Washington Street, with possible action.

Motion to postpone.

Moved: Cm. Agredano

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

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.

50. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in

order to deliberate the possible purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property in the Sanchez Ranchito Acreage Trust Subdivision, 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.

Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to deliberate the possible purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property in the Sanchez Ranchito Acreage Trust Subdivision, 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.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken.

51. Request for executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in

order to deliberate on the value of, and possible exchange of real property located in and around the Laredo International Airport, 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.

Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.072 in order to deliberate on the value of, and possible exchange of real property located in and around the Laredo International Airport, 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.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken.

52. Request for executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 to

discuss with the City Attorney the pending case of Martin Villarreal et al. v. City of Laredo, et al., Cause No. L-03-11 in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division; and return to open session for possible action.

Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 to discuss with the City Attorney the pending case of Martin Villarreal et al. v. City of Laredo, et al., Cause No. L-03-11 in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, Laredo Division; and return to open session for possible action.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

After Executive Session, Mayor Flores announced that no formal action was taken.

XV. 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. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

53. Motion to waive bus fare collection to and from the HEB “Feast of Sharing” Sunday,

November 20, 2005 as participation by the City of Laredo co-sponsoring this event. HEB will provide a $1,000.00 contribution to offset the fares.

Motion to approve.

Moved: Cm. Galo

Second: Cm. Amaya

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XVI. 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. Galo

Second: Cm. Agredano

For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

Motion to adjourn. Time: 9:41 p.m.

Moved: Cm. Amaya

Second: Mayor Pro Tem Valdez

For: 7 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 36 and they are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on November 7, 2005.

______________________________

Gustavo Guevara, Jr.

City Secretary