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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2007-R-01 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 January 2, 2007 5:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present, Mayor Raul G. Salinas called the meeting to order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Raul G. Salinas led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
In attendance:
Raul G. Salinas, Mayor Mike Garza, Council Member, District I Hector Garcia, Council Member, District II Michael Landeck, Council Member, District III Johnny Amaya, Council Member, District IV Johnny Rendon, Council Member, District V Gene Belmares, Council Member, District VI Juan Chavez, Council Member, District VII Juan Ramirez, Mayor Pro Tem, District VIII Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary Cynthia Collazo, Acting City Manager Horacio De Leon, Assistant City Manager Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager Valeria Acevedo, City Attorney Interim
IV. MINUTES
None. V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Recognitions
Communiqués
Mayor Salinas requested that all Directors direct their employees to answer the telephone by saying “This is (name), how may I help you”?
He read the following letter:
“As Mayor of this great City and on behalf of my colleagues on the Laredo City Council, I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. I want to encourage everyone to make 2007 their best year ever! I also want to take time to send a special message to our elected officials who represent in our interests in our state and nation’s capitols. The 110th Congressional Session will convene this coming Thursday, January 4, 2007, in Washington D.C. and I would like to wish our hometown Congressman Henry Cuellar much success during this session. Also starting Tuesday, January 9th, 2007 will be the 80th Legislative Session in Austin and I would like to wish our hometown State Senator Judith Zaffirini and State Representative Richard Raymond as well as State Representative Ryan Guillen much success. Each of these individuals have accomplished so much for our community and I want to thank them for their hard work and for always keeping our city at the fore front of everything they do. Laredo is fortunate to have these four outstanding individuals represent our interests and we as a City will continue to work with them to make Laredo an even better place for all of us. The City of Laredo will take a delegation to Austin and Washington D.C. this year to help them advocate for issues that mean so to us. Again on behalf of the City of Laredo we want to wish Congressman Cuellar, Senator Zaffirini, and Representatives Raymond and Guillen much session as they enter their legislative sessions.”
Cm. Garza stated that it is a blessing to be here and he realizes that among all resolutions his family has made for the New Year, the most important one is the sacrifices his family has had to make because he is a public servant. He stated that his resolution is to work together with the City Council to get things done and be more cooperative.
Cm. Garcia thanked God for another year to work with the citizens and City Council of Laredo.
Cm. Landeck stated that it is beautiful to agree and disagree knowing that it is all for the improvement of the quality of life. He wished everyone good health. He stated that the message is out and clear that the City of Laredo will support Webb County. He mentioned that there is still the issue of Bridge V and the International Railroad and the City Council will move forward to the resolution of these issues.
Cm. Amaya wished all the residents of Laredo a safe and Happy New Year. He mentioned that the Dr. Cecilia May Moreno Splash Skate Park and the Buenos Aires Senior Citizens Community Center are two projects in his district that should be completed soon.
Cm. Rendon wished everyone a safe and a prosperous New Year. He mentioned that he is looking forward to working with his colleagues. He stressed that he wants to continue to make Laredo a safe place to live and will continue to improve the quality of life. He congratulated all the new Webb County Officials. He thanked the Public Works Department for doing their best on the bridge located on Gale Street
Cm. Belmares wished everyone a great 2007. He noted that he will continue to work hard in 2007 just as he did in 2006. He reported that all projects that have been started will be completed.
Cm. Chavez congratulated all the new elected officials especially Commissioner Sergio Martinez from District VII.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez thanked everyone for helping make Laredo a better place to live. He stated that he hopes that the El Portal project will be ready in 2007. He also hopes to have the water park completed in 2007.
Citizen comments
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
None.
VII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
1.
A. Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with possible action on waiving fees on facilities and equipment for the Sister Cities Festival at the Civic Center.
Mike Pescador, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the current fees being charged to the Sister Cities Festival and Conference, is $5,790.00. He stated that this amount includes; meeting rooms; the ballroom; lobby use; and the exhibit booths. He also informed City Council that the amount is charged according to the ordinance and they are being charged a convention rate which is a 20% discount of the basic rate.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez said that the City of Laredo was honored last year in Spokane, Washington, for being an outstanding promoter of Sister Cities. He stated it was not right for the City to charge the organization. He mentioned that in previous years he bought several booths and decorations to help the event. He stressed that in order to continue to make the event a success; the organization should not be charged for the use of the Civic Center or for the equipment.
Motion to amend the ordinance by waiving all fees on facilities and equipment for the Sister Cities Festival at the Civic Center.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion with possible action on fixing sewer problems at Flores and Zaragoza and the 1200 block of Grant Street.
Carl Schwing, Utilities Director, reported that the problems downtown along Flores Street will need major engineering and construction. He stated he will obtain an engineering and design study for the repairs and will bring it back to City Council. He mentioned that at the 1200 Block of Grant Street, work will be finished by the end of the week. He also reported that the sewers will be flushed weekly and disinfected.
3. Discussion with possible action on increasing the lumens of the street lights on Grant and Iturbide from Convent to Santa Maria and to install street lights at the intersection of Zaragoza and Santa Maria.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, showed City Council the lay out of the existing street lights. He reported that the first phase of upgrading the street lights began south of Iturbide between Convent and Santa Maria. He mentioned that he requested AEP to upgrade the streets north of Iturbide in late October and as of yet has not received a proposal. He informed City Council that his current plan is to upgrade the existing street lights by replacing the bulbs and then go back to revise the areas that need more lighting.
Rafael Garcia, Assistant City Manager, informed City Council that staff will come back with a comprehensive plan to not only show the number of lights needed, but also show the type of lights for downtown. He mentioned that the plan will include several options and will include the cost of each one before any lights are put up.
VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo’s FY 2006-2007 annual budget by authorizing the addition of one (1) Investigator position by reclassification of one (1) officer position in the Laredo Police Department’s High Intensity Drug Trafficking Agency (HIDTA) program. There is no cost to the City of Laredo’s General Fund. Funding is available from within the HIDTA program.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Valeria Acevedo, Interim City Attorney, informed City Council to amend what is written by deleting the wording “annual budget” and inserting the words “Full-Time Equivalent Position”. She stated that the annual budget is not being amended.
Motion to delete the wording “annual budget” and insert the words “Full-Time Equivalent Position”.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $257,702.00 in additional funds from the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Public Health Preparedness and Epidemiology Program-Pandemic Influenza Work Plan of the City of Laredo Health Department for a total grant amount of $932,099.00, and extending the grant period which ends December 31, 2006, an additional eight (8) months. The term period from September 1, 2005, through August 31, 2007; amend the FY 2006-2007 full-time equivalent positions, and authorizing the City Manager to execute the contract.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007 Annual Budget for the South Texas Regional 9-1-1 System Fund by adding one (1) full time equivalent (FTE) position. The position would be responsible for assisting the four county region of Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb, and Zapata counties with 9-1-1 database ` matters. Funding in the estimated amount of $ 22,000 for the remaining eight months of the fiscal year is available in the 9-1-1 Regional Fund.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Ordinance 2006-O-073, Chapter 15 Health and Sanitation, Article VI “No Smoking in Public Places”, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo, Texas by amending Sections 15-78 through 15-81; “No Smoking in Public Places”, to include declared and approved establishments by the City of Laredo Health Department as providing services solely to patrons ages 21 and older, who have applied and been granted a permit as a 21 years of age and older place of business. Approved businesses will pay an application and a permit fee to allow smoking. The ordinance also provides for violations and penalties and enforcement of the policies of this chapter, and for providing severability and an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Vincent Norris, a local attorney, spoke against the ordinance change allowing smoking in public places and opposed the new change proposed.
Nedil Antonini, local physician, asked City Council not to change the ordinance and protect the health of the constituents.
Ivan Rodriguez stated that he feels that a complete ban on smoking is a good decision and that the ordinance should stand unchanged.
Jorge Gutierrez, owner of Average Joe’s Sports Bar and Grill, stated that his business is the only one that has respected the ordinance. He commented that enforcement of the ordinance is very lax and questioned how it could be improved.
Motion to table until the outcome from the state level is known.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Landeck For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garza Cm. Rendon Cm. Garcia Cm. Belmares Cm. Landeck Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez Cm. Amaya Cm. Chavez
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 annual budget by decreasing the grant award amount by $44,012.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Prevention Services for HIV-Infected Persons Project (PSHIP) of the City of Laredo Health Department for a total amount of $69,993.00 for contract period beginning January 1, 2007 through August 31, 2007 and amending the Full Time Equivalent positions.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
7. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Easement and Underground Service Agreement Document WR16640801 with AEP Texas Central Company (AEP) consisting of approximately 22,440.17 square feet of land within the Laredo International Airport Passenger Terminal Subdivision, recorded Volume 16, Pages 45- 47, Webb County Map Record, Webb County, Texas, for the installation of underground electrical facilities to serve Laredo International Airport at 5210 Bob Bullock Loop; providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the final reading of Ordinance # 2006-O-335, # 2006-O-336, # 2006-O- 337, # 2006-O-338, # 2006-O-340, # 2006-O-341, # 2006-O-342, # 2006-O-343, # 2006-O- 344, # 2006-O-345, # 2006-O-346, # 2006-O-347, # 2006-O-349, # 2006-O-350, # 2006-O- 351, # 2006-O-352, # 2006-O-353, # 2006-O-354, and # 2006-O-355.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8.
2006-O-335 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 1 and 2, Block 1-A, Dellwood Commercial Subdivision, located at 1001 Bristol Road, from B-1 (Limited Commercial District) to B-3 (Community Business District).
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-335.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-336 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 8.75 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit "A", located on the northwest corner of F.M. 1472 and Mueller Memorial Boulevard, from B-3 (Community Business District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-336.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-337 Amending Division 3 (RATES AND CHARGES) of Chapter 31 (UTILITIES) of the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, specifically section 31-138 which provides for connection fees for fire hydrant meters, by changing the use only for construction and creating connection fees for temporary meters for residential construction by only charging the service of residential water rates according to section 31-138, and no other services until a certificate of occupancy is issued; providing for publication and an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-337.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-338 Amending the FY 2006-2007 Annual Operating Budget in the Fire Prevention and Arson Fund Budget by accepting a donation of $2,250.00 from Wal-Mart Stores and appropriating said funds for the purpose to purchase Fire Safety Educational Promotional Materials for the Fire Prevention Division and purchase materials and supplies for the Parks Department Recreation Centers. (As amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-338.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-339 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $1,701,830.00. The revenues are from lease purchase proceeds related to the financing of fifty-four (54) marked police patrol units for the Laredo Police Department. (As amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-339.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-340 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Capital Improvement Project Fund budget by drawing down opening balance and appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $1,300,000.00 for purchase of land plus incidental expenses in the Central Business District.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-340.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-341 Amending Chapter 28 (Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places) of the Code of Ordinances by amending Article V, (Commercial Use of Streets, Sidewalks and other Public Places), Section 28-105 (b) and (c) by adding three additional designated areas where goods may be sold; and providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-341.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-342 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Airport Operating Fund by transferring out $250,000.00 to the Airport Construction Fund to contract for professional services to prepare plans and specifications to bid the rehabilitation of Runway 14/32, authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget amendment, and providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-342.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-343 Amending Chapter 19, Motor Vehicle and Traffic, Article VI Operation, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo by creating Division 5, Heavy Equipment/Construction Type Vehicles, and adding Sections 19-267 through 19-269, which prohibits the use of heavy equipment/construction type vehicles on public streets, unless vehicle is transported on a trailer designed for that purpose; providing for definitions, severability, publication, and effective date. (As amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-343.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-344 Authorizing the City Manager to amend the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Recreation Fund and General Fund by drawing down $83,000.00 from the Recreation Fund balance and transferring said funds to General Fund for the purpose of updating the City of Laredo Parks and Open Space Master Plan. The proposed update to this master plan is needed in order to evaluate the present and future open space and recreational needs of our community according to Texas Parks and Wildlife and National Recreation and Parks Association standards.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-344.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-345 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $94,537.00 in additional funds from the Texas Department of State Health Services for a total amount in funds of $223,188.00 and an estimated program income $59,888.00 for the Immunization Action Plan (IAP) Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning September 1, 2006 through August 31, 2007 and amending the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 full time equivalent positions.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-345.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-346 Closing as a public easement that section of the 2200 Block of Hidalgo Street between the west right-of-way line of Eagle Pass Avenue and the Laredo Community College Property line situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas and providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-346.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-347 Authorizing the City Manager to grant a license to access Comm Corporation, a Texas Corporation, for the use of 1,598 linear feet of City of Laredo right of way on San Eduardo Avenue, as more fully described in Exhibit “A” of license agreement, Laredo, Webb County, Texas. License term is five (5) years commencing on January 3, 2007 and ending January 2, 2012, with one (5) year renewal option. Annual rent shall start at $5,000.00 per year plus a $6.00 fee per linear foot with a five percent (5%) increase each anniversary date for the use of the right of way; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-347.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-349 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 33.19 acres, more or less, located approximately north of Bob Bullock Loop and east of East Point Drive, specifically the U.I.S.D. Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of R-1 (Single Family Residential District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-349.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-350 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 52.94 acres, more or less, located approximately north of SH 359 and west of Los Altos Subdivision and north of Tanquecitos Phase 2, specifically the Tanquecitos Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of R- 1-MH (Single Family Manufactured Housing District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-350.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-351 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 1.85 acres, more or less, located approximately 4.3 miles east of Loop 20 and south of SH 359, specifically the Alarcon Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of M-1 (Light Manufacturing District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-351.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-352 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 21.09 acres, more or less, located approximately south of Highway 59, and east of Loop 20, specifically the Hurd Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-352.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-353 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 44.53 acres, more or less, located approximately north of Pita Mangana and east of Highway 83, specifically the 4 V Holding Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-353.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-354 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 2.45 acres, more or less, located approximately south of SH 359 and north of the E.G. Ranch Tract 1, specifically the Key Energy Annexation Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of M-1 (Light Manufacturing District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-354.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 2006-O-355 Altering and extending the boundary limits of the City of Laredo, annexing additional territory of 7.71 acres, more or less, located approximately north of SH 359 and west of the U.I.S.D. Student Activity Complex Educational Center, specifically the Gutierrez/Izaguirre Tract, providing for the effective date of the ordinance, authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract adopting a service plan for the annexed territory, and establishing the initial zoning of B-3 (Community Business District). (Introduction of Ordinance will be held on December 28, 2006)
Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2006-O-355.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 XI. RESOLUTIONS
9. 2006-R-117 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant from the Target Community Giving Programs in the amount of $4,700.00. Funds will be deposited in the Friends of the Library Fund and used to expand the Laredo Public Library’s “Schools Out! Now What?” program.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2006-R-117.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
10. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment to the contract with the Laredo Morning Times to extend the deadline for delivery of the 2007 Laredo/Nuevo Laredo Official Visitors Guide from January 15, 2007 to February 14, 2007.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. Consideration to authorize the purchase of a second order of magnetic cards from the low bidder Electronic Data Magnetics, Inc., High Point, N.C., in the amount of $43,750.00, for the purchase of custom magnetic cards (Gateway Pass) for the Bridge Department. The bid contract contains provisions for additional orders of magnetic cards. Funding is available in the Bridge Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for one additional year for contract FY05- 051 for the purchase of dealer repair parts for the vehicle fleet to: Sames Motor Company, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $70,000.00 and North Park Lincoln, San Antonio, Texas, in the estimated amount of $20,000.00. All parts will be purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. Consideration to exercise renewal option for contract FY05-049 for the following annual contracts, for repair parts and service for Elgin and Tymco street sweepers and Case Equipment: Kinloch Equipment, Pasadena, Texas, in the estimated amount of $40,000.00; Industrial Disposal Supply, San Antonio, Texas, in the estimated amount of $25,000.00, and Nueces Power Equipment, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $25,000.00. All parts and service will be purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. Authorizing the City Manager to award a contract in the amount of $89,952.00 to Alliance Transportation Group, Inc., for the development of the San Bernardo Avenue Renovation and Restoration Project. Funding for the project is available in the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) account using federal planning grant (PL112) funds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. Consideration to authorize the purchase of fifty-four (54) police sedans in the total amount of $1,701,830.00 from Dallas Dodge, through the Houston Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC) cooperative purchasing program. Funding is available in the Police Trust Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Consideration to authorize a lease purchase contract with Baystone Financial Group in the total amount of $1,634,651.97, through the Houston Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC) cooperative purchasing program for the 54 police sedans being purchased from Dallas Dodge. Funding is available in the Police Trust Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for contract FY05-052 to the low bidder meeting specifications, Southern Tire Mart, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated annual amount of $143,320.00 for the purchase of tires for all City vehicles. All tires are purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Fund.
Motion to put out for bids.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Landeck For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Consideration to award contract FY07-006 for the purchase of general office supplies to the low bidders, Patria Office Supply, Laredo, Texas and Executive Office Supply, Laredo, Texas. Departments will be able to order from the vendor’s general catalogues. Funding is available in office supply line item budgets for the respective departments.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for contract amount number FY05-107 for repair parts and service for the refuse truck equipment awarded to McNeilus Truck, Hutchins, Texas, in the estimated annual amount of $50,000.00 and for repair parts and service for lawn equipment to Jones Equipment & Turf, Inc., New Braunfels, Texas in the estimated amount of $5,000.00. All parts and services are secured on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Consideration to award contract number FY07-038 to the low bidder, Grant Environmental Group, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $54,392.00 for modifications to the airport elevated tank for the Utilities Department. Funding is available in the Utilities Department Construction Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Authorizing the City Manager to select and enter into negotiations for a consulting contract for advertising and promotion services in order to conduct a city wide anti- vandalism awareness campaign for the Parks and Recreation Department. The consultant recommended for selection is PM Design Group.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez
22. Authorizing the City Manager to approve payment from the City’s Arena Renewal and Replacement Account for the purchase of Zamboni tires and other parts, control panel upgrade for ice plant system and re-stripping of parking lot in a total amount not to exceed $25,000.00. Funding is available in the Sports and Community Venue Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration to authorize the purchase of a records management and mobile incident software solution from Sunguard H.T.E. in the total amount of $122,260.00 for the Fire Department. This software solution will be part of the fully integrated information management system solution recently approved for the Police Department. Funding will be secured from a Homeland Security Grant.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to award contract number FY07-036 to the low bidder, Galls, Inc., Lexington, Kentucky, in the amount of $94,482.86 for the purchase of one hundred and fifty four (154) soft body armor vests for the Police Department. The contract price will be firm for a one year period with an option to renew for an additional year upon mutual agreement by the contract vendor of the City of Laredo. Funding is available in the Police Department’s budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for contract FY05-032 for the following annual contracts for repair parts for the heavy equipment fleet: Holt Company of Texas, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $200,000.00 and RDO Equipment Company, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $20,000.00. All parts and services will be purchased on as needed basis. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to reject all bids submitted for the purchase of portable signs for contract FY07-028 and to authorize the purchase of four (4) solar, portable message signs from American Signal, Atlanta, Georgia in the total amount of $55,000.00 through the State of Texas Building and Procurement Commission’s (TBPC) Cooperative Purchasing Program. The portable signs will be purchased for the Traffic Department. Funding is available in the 2006 C.O. PPFCO Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Refund of property tax in the amount of $1,301.02 to the following tax payers and companies:
A. A refund in the amount of $650.70 payable to Arrowhead Land Development due to an erroneous payment. Account #922-10001-130.
B. A refund in the amount of $650.32 payable to Roberto and Martha Barrera due to an overpayment. Account #973-10012-100.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORTS
28. A. Update report by Keith Kindle, Turner, Collie and Braden, on the status of the Colonias Project.
Keith Kindle of Turner, Collie and Braden reported that State Hwy. 359 and the Mines Road Colonias Improvement Project include ten colonias on Hwy. 359 and five colonias on the Mines Road area. He added that the main water transmission lines, elevated storage tanks, booster stations, and the deep sewer interceptor lines along both areas have been completed. He reported that what still remains undone is the water distribution and waste water collection systems for the colonias. He mentioned that a low bid was recently approved for State Hwy. 359 (Work Order #3) in the amount of $4,500,000.00. He stated that they are taking this amount along with the addition of the estimates for Pueblo Nuevo which is on State Hwy 359 (Work Order #2) and the engineers estimates for Mines Road (Work Order #1) which is water distribution system for Mines Road to the Laredo Water Development Board to ask for an increase in funding. He stated that in 2000 the City was awarded $16,770,000.00 in a combination of a loan and grant. He reported that delays that have incurred are due to obtaining all of the 1,460 right- away parcels and 97 easements which are required by the Water Development Board to allow for the distribution system and the collection system to function before construction begins. He noted that the Water Development Board currently has funds remaining in the Economically Distressed Area Program and they can proceed with obtaining the increased amount. He stated that the revised increase amount is $28,027,387.00 which is an increase of approximately $11,000,000.00. He also stated that the EDAP loan which is a combination of a grant and loan totals $330,000 for the wastewater and $644,000.00 for the water portion. He noted that the additional EDAP grant is approximately $10,283,000.00 of the $11,000,000.00 increase. He summarized by reporting that the opening of bids is to be scheduled in February 2007. He noted that for the bid to be valid staff has to go before the Water Development Board in February. He also noted that historically in the last 12 years EDAP has calculated the loan as 90 % grant and 10% loan. Based on the $28,000,000.00 total project, the EDAP grant would then be $25,603,000.00 and the loan amount would be for $2,423,000,000.00. He reported that an additional loan amount would total about $1,000,000.00 verses the initial $16,700,000.00 appropriation. He also reported that this will provide first time water and waste water services for over 5,700 colonia residents.
B. Staff report regarding third party funding from the Hotel/Motel Fund by Martin Aleman, Budget Director.
Martin Aleman, Budget Director, reported that in previous City Council meetings there were discussions on the issue for additional funding for Laredo Community Collage. They came to City Council to request additional funding based on the recommendations and what was approved during the budget process. He stated that currently, at the end of the first quarter, twenty-five percent of the budget has been collected. He also stated that the Hotel/Motel Fund is doing well and it is currently at 26.43 percent of the total budget. He reported that last year there was a shortage of over $350,000.00 and expenditures had to be cut from the Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Civic Center. He pointed out that his recommendation for any additional funding to the Laredo Community College would be to obtain the funding from the vacant positions available at the Civic Center. He mentioned that at this time there is a small savings of an estimated amount of $15,000 dollars and currently it is at 1.43 percent above the 25 percent for the first quarter.
Motion to allocate $15,000 to the Laredo Community College.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Presentation regarding the Assessment of Disposal Alternatives for the City of Laredo Landfill by Kevin Yard from SCS Engineers.
Oscar Medina, Solid Waste Services Director, stated that the most frequently asked question is “How many years do we have left in the landfill”? He noted that SCS Engineers were hired to do an assessment of disposal requirements and come up with alternatives and recommendations.
Kevin Yard from SCS Engineers stated that there are 200 acres out of a total of 150 acres permitted for land filling located within the City of Laredo limits. He mentioned that the landfill provides disposal for Laredo and the surrounding area. He made a power point presentation on Landfill Expansion Considerations. The topics he reported on consisted of a Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Program; Landfill; Opportunity to remove gas line easement; and landfill expansion alternatives.
Motion to allow the permitting of the gas line easement only and limit it to 110 ft. and begin the process of looking for another landfill site.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Chavez For: 8 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.
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. Belmares Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Authorizing the City Manager to waive the parking fee for persons attending the Popeye’s Mardi Gras Jamboozie and implementing a flat fee charge of $200.00 to the Streets of Laredo Urban Mall Association for personnel costs, overtime and extra security for traffic crowd control for the use of the parking facility on January 27, 2007 from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. RECESS AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND ADJOURN
Motion to recess as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and Reconvene as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA
I. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. A. Request by Mayor Raul G. Salinas
1. Discussion with possible action on implementing new tourism promotional initiatives to continue to attract and retain businesses and visitors from Mexico and identifying additional funding.
Mayor Salinas stated that he wants Laredo dollars to stay in Laredo to help our local businesses. He stressed that he wants Laredo to be promoted more. He stated that he wants to continue to work in Mexico in cities such as Monterrey, Saltillo, San Luis Potosi, and Queretaro.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez stated that regardless of the advertising done in Mexico, the biggest problem has been the congestion at the International Bridge. He also mentioned that the buses take hours to be processed and stressed that this issue needs to be addressed.
Patricia Taylor, Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Director, reported that they have increased their promotional effort in Mexico.
Mayor Salinas stated that he would like the Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau to work with their present funding. He suggested that Patricia Taylor arrange a meeting with businesses and hotels.
Patricia Taylor mentioned that Laredo has been promoted in magazines such as “El Norte”, “Discubre Monterrey”, “Easy Chair” in Monterrey, and “Bon Voyage” in a Mexico. She reported that the Hotel/Motel Association advised her that they will become active again and this will give them an opportunity to be present in the Laredo Convention and Visitor’s Bureau’s activities. She also reported that with new hotels and more competition, established hotels have begun lowering their prices and renovating there facilities in order to compete. She mentioned that a serious market research project is needed to find out who is visiting Laredo especially from Mexico, but funding is needed.
Cm. Landeck asked Patricia Taylor to provide measures of affectivity in regards to everything money is spent one.
Mayor Salinas asked Ms. Taylor to increase the welcome to the Paisanos For more than 48 hours.
B. Request by Council Member Hector Garcia
1. Discussion with possible action on the vacant homes and properties related to the noise abatement program in District II. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Juan Chavez)
Ronnie Acosta, Community Development Director, reported that the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation contracts with the City to manage the noise abatement properties. She stated that there are 155 properties and 25 additional vacant lots that have been purchased. Out of the 155 properties currently 42 are vacant. She informed the City Council that the purchase price multiplied by 8.5 % is divided by twelve for the monthly rent. The rent schedule was developed by ordinance in 2000 and in 2003 it was amended by City Council. She stated that if a house stays on the market longer than six months it should be reduced to 5%. She reported that many homes have many amenities such as pools and jacuzzi’s and therefore are purchased at a higher price. She stated that many homes are vacant and the formula should be revised to make them available to the public. She informed City Council that Municipal Housing is responsible for repairing the houses and making them marketable. The budget this year will include the addition of a building mechanic and they are currently in the process of hiring someone to help expedite units getting placed on the market.
Cm. Garcia suggested that an ordinance come back to make it more affordable for those people currently living in the homes. He asked if the vacant lots can be sold so people can build and the money and get reinvested to buy other homes in the North Abatement area. He questioned if the houses can be replaced with proper windows and then sell them.
Joe Flores, Airport Director, reported that if it is feasible to sound proof those homes. He reported that City Council has approved contracts to sound proof 33 homes.
2. Update on the Gale Street Bridge project. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Juan Chavez)
This item was tabled indefinitely by Cm. Garcia.
II. MOTIONS
2. Awarding a construction contract to the low bidder, Jimmy Closner and Sons Construction Company, Inc., Mercedes, Texas, in the amount of $4,697,756.20 for the construction of the SH359 Work Order #3 Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Systems to the Colonias Old Milwaukee, Los Altos, D-5 Acres, San Carlos I, San Carlos II, Tanquecitos II, Ranchitos 359 East & Laredo Ranchettes subject to the approval of the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). The construction time is 540 calendar days. Funding is available in the Colonias Project Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
III. 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.
IV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 |