CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2007-R-03

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

FEBRUARY 5, 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 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

            Rafael Garcia,                                                                           Assistant City Manager

            Horacio De Leon,                                                                     Assistant City Manager

            Valeria Acevedo,                                                                      Acting City Attorney

 

IV.       MINUTES

 

            None.

 

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

            Recognitions

 

            a.  Recognition of the City of Laredo Sister Cities Youth Committee.

                

                 Eduardo Gonzalez, Chairperson for the Laredo Sister Cities Youth Committee,                         expressed his gratitude for the support that City Council has given to the Committee.  He                noted that the activities provided through the committee have allowed him the                              opportunity to share culture and languages.  He said that it has been a great honor to                     represent the City of Laredo.  He added that the youth committee assists people in                     appreciating their diversity.  The following students introduced themselves: 

 

                 Eduardo Gonzalez, President                       Senior                          United High School

                 Michael Castillo                                           Senior                          Cigarroa High School  

                 Erica Lopez                                     Senior                          LBJ High School

                 Mark Gonzalez, Vice Chair              Senior                          Nixon High School

                 Jose Chavana, Secretary                              Senior                          Martin High School

                 Karissa Lozano                                           Senior                          St. Augustine High

                 Armando Lopez                                          Junior                           Nixon High School

                 Antonio Yarza                                             Junior                           St. Augustine High

                 Yesenia Zavala                                            Junior                           LBJ High School

                 Marissa Medellin                                         Junior                           Cigarroa High School  

                 Carmen Bustos                                            Junior                           United High School

                 Nicolas Carmona                                         Junior                           Alexander High School

           

            Communiqués

 

            Cm. Garza thanked all the individuals that assisted a family in South Laredo that lost their             home by fire before Christmas. 

 

            Cm. Garcia thanked everyone that visited the City of Austin on the City’s behalf.  He             commended City staff for their hard work in Austin.   He went on the congratulate Donna             Magnon, Deputy City Secretary, for doing a great job in spearheading the youth conference             that was held in January.   He thanked everyone who attended the Border Stockman’s Ball             which is held to raise money for Border Olympics.  Finally, he mentioned the $19 million             dollar interchange along Loop 20 and Hwy. 59 where the groundbreaking was held       with the Mayor as an MC and Henry Cuellar, U. S. Congressman as the guest speaker. 

 

            Cm. Landeck asked for a moment of silence for Jorge Rodriguez, family member of seven,             who lost his life as he slept at his house when an SUV lost control and crashed into his   home.  He said that the loss should remind everyone that maintaining streets is a very high   priority in protecting families, homes, and belongings.  He thanked the Mayor for his immediate support for Jorge Rodriguez and his family.  He also thanked City staff for     assisting the Rodriguez family because they can no longer reside within the house. 

 

            Cm. Rendon advised that City staff and Council Members were very productive in the   Legislative trip to Austin, Texas.  He said that they were received with “open arms” as they             visited the State Capital.  He thanked Senator Zaffirini for inviting the City of Laredo staff           to the Senate floor.  He also thanked Representative Richard Raymond for receiving them          in his office in Austin.  Finally, he mentioned that he has been able to attend several of the             Washington Celebration activities and they have all been well attended.  He added that the Stockman’s Ball was especially nice because no one was smoking cigarettes. 

 

            Cm. Belmares echoed the other Council Members by reporting the success of the          Legislative Austin trip by City staff.  He too thanked Senator Zaffirini for assisting the City   of Laredo.  He also thanked Richard Raymond and Congressman Guillen for their guidance in Austin.  He continued by saying that they spoke with the Lieutenant Governor who         expressed his concerns for the city of Laredo.  He commended the City staff and their        diligence towards legislative trips.  He congratulated the organizers of the Jamboozie for     their phenomenal event.  Finally, he wished Joshua, his son, a wonderful happy birthday. 

 

            Cm. Chavez said that he had met with the railroad companies and contrary to what people             believe they are truly concerned about the trains stopping in certain neighborhoods.        He advised that they will be meeting with the Mexican railroads to strive for a solution to     the problems with the trains. 

 

            Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez said that on Friday the City of Laredo held the opening of the             Sister Cities International Festival and Sister Cities Conference.  He said that it was a great             event.  He noted that on Monday the City held the ribbon cutting for the El Portal Project at             Bridge I.  He added that they also held the grand openings of the UETA Duty Free Offices             downtown.  He congratulated Carmen Salinas, Mexican actress, for being named “Senorita             Internacional.” 

 

            Mayor Salinas personally recognize and expressed his appreciation to the Acting City    Manager, Cynthia Collazo, Blasita Lopez, Veronica Cantu, Jessica Hein, and others who worked very hard in Austin, Texas.  He discussed the tedious schedule for staff members in   Austin.  He said that he was very proud of his colleagues in the Council who went to visit in          Austin.  He said that no city in the entire state of Texas does the work that Laredo does to          promote the interests of the City of Laredo.   He advised that he had to leave early because         he was appointed to a Tasks Force Committee on Homeland Security which is very vital by           the United States Conference of Mayors.  He was very humbled by the appointment      because it is so critical to the border.  He further explained that he had an opportunity to   visit with Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House; Senator Hillary Clinton, Mayor Daily from             Chicago, and Mayor Villaraigoza.   He shared that he had the opportunity to work within             Public Works and personally worked on pot holes through Laredo.  He also shared that he             was very proud of the way Council Member Landeck his concern for the young life that             was taken away by an alleged drunk driver.  He also acknowledged City staff and their quick action to assist the family.  He acknowledged that that is what makes Laredo so great.  He said that helping people is the job of the City Council.  He said that the City of Laredo is             very lucky to have such a strong bond with the Mexico because they are our neighbors.  He           congratulated Senator Zaffirini, Representative Raymond, and Representative Ryan Guillen      for their appointments to different boards.  He specifically mentioned the appointment of   Representative Guillen as Vice Chairman of the Appropriations Committee. 

 

            Citizen comments

 

            Citizens are required to fill out a witness card and identify themselves at the microphone.              Comments should be relevant to City business and delivered in a professional manner.  No             derogatory remarks will be permitted.  There is a time limit of three minutes per speaker.

 

            Bradley Wendt, Senior Officer of United Sports Equity which is the owner of the Laredo             Broncos, said that their business is to own and operate minor league ball clubs.  He thanked             the Council and the City of Laredo for embracing their team last year and is looking       forward to a great season.  He congratulated the staff of the City of Laredo for doing such          an excellent job in assisting the Broncos. 

 

            Rene de la Vina, concerned citizen, thanked City Council for being a “user-friendly” City             Council.  He said that the Mayor is doing a wonderful job with the City.  He spoke in favor        of a Civil Service for City employees.  He expressed his concerns regarding “pot” holes.    He encouraged Council to continue to advocate for the Mental Retardation families.

 

            Ed Walker, Winter Garden Ground Water Conservation District, advised that the District             had asked him to visit City Council in providing a warm welcome from the north.  He said             that they are public servants and would like to continue working with the City of Laredo.              The Water District encouraged Council to continue to support the cloud seeding. 

 

            Hilario Cavazos congratulated the Mayor and City Council for the open forum where     citizens can approach the Council with questions.  He said that the Council is very friendly          with the public because they are allowed to approach Council with their concerns for the          betterment of the community.  He added that he appreciates the openness of the City       Council. He continued by saying that he likes the way the Mayor is reaching out to work             very closely with the new Webb County Judge because that is what Laredo and Webb   County wants.  He too asked City Council to consider the Civil Service and Ethics             Commission for the City of Laredo.

 

            Luis Lopez spoke on behalf of the Day Break Rotary Club because they donated $5,000 to             the Parks and Recreation Department for the purchase of 23 Live Oak Trees for the City.              He recognized several members of the Rotary Club. 

 

Ralph Nincham, Cardiologist, read a letter thanking the Mayor for the naming of the Blue Ribbon Health Committee.  The letter, which was written by the Blue Ribbon Health Committee, encouraged Council to keep the current ordinance that prohibits smoking in all public     places in its current form.  It is especially important because there is undisputable scientific evidence which concludes that there is no risk free level of exposure to second hand smoking. Non smokers exposed to second hand smoke, at home or at work, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by twenty five to thirty percent.

 

            Chris Craddock, representing SCAN, Regional Vice President spoke against the amendment    to the smoking ordinance and to leave the ordinance as a complete ban of smoking.     

 

            Sunny Storm spoke against the amendment to the no smoking ordinance.

 

            Joe Gutierrez stated that regardless of health issues and how dangerous it is that it cannot be      a valid     ordinance unless the City of Laredo has the staff to enforce it.  He explained that            many of his regular smoking customers go to places that allow smoking.  He said that if the          City cannot enforce the law then they should allow smoking to avoid disparities.

 

            A TKO Sports Bar representative spoke in favor of allowing smoking in 21 or over bars. 

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

 

            a.  Patricia Alvarez, appointed by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck, to the Laredo

                 Commission for Women.

 

                Motion to approve.

 

 

 

                Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                Second:  Cm.  Garcia

                For:     8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            b.  David Cardwell, appointed by Council Member Gene Belmares, to the Library Advisory           Board.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                Second:  Cm.  Garcia

                For:     8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

VII.     GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

 

            1.  A.  Request by Mayor Raul G. Salinas

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action regarding street potholes throughout the City.

 

                 Alejandro Labrada, advised that he had submitted a report regarding the potholes in the             Council’s packet.  He explained that the pothole patching is a year round activity

                 which is performed by the Department of Public Works.  He said that he has six patching           trucks.  He further advised Council that staff has been working on the week-ends to                       repair the potholes. 

 

                 Cm. Garcia expressed his dissatisfaction with the Public Works Department noting that              they should be proactive in creating solutions to repair potholes.

 

                 The Mayor suggested creating a pothole hotline for the City of Laredo.

 

                 Cm. Garza said that there is an underlying problem with the potholes.  He too said that               the departments need a strategic plan in fixing potholes expeditiously.

 

                 Cm. Chavez  instructed staff to create a bid for quality material to repair the potholes.  

 

                 B.  Request by Council Member Mike Garza

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on establishing an ordinance that will assist the Building

                 Department to withhold the issuance of permits to contractors that have not paid

                 subcontractors for their completed work.

 

                 Cm. Garza said that he placed this item on the agenda because he has heard of some                                instances where large contractors from out of town contract local employees but do

                 not pay them.  He suggested the creation of a claim against such contractors where the               City can withhold future permits until they settle past accounts. He said that he feels that                  the City of Laredo should protect the small business person.

 

                 Erasmo Villarreal, Building Director, said that the City of Laredo has a mechanism in                                 place called a mechanics lean.  He said that any subcontractor that does not get paid by a          contractor can file a mechanics lean on that particular project.  He said that he has been                  advising subcontractors that there is a mechanics lean. 

                

            2.  Discussion with possible action to allow for a split payment program for payment of

                 property taxes.

 

                 Cm. Garza instructed staff to review the possibilities to allow for a split payment                         program for property taxes and return to Council with recommendations.

 

                 Elizabeth Martinez, Tax Collector/Assessor, said that it is something that the City of                   Laredo could offer the tax payers of the City of Laredo.  She said that there would be a                  monetary consequence because during the months of January and February the City

                 collects fifty percent of their levy which is twenty seven million dollars.  She said that

                 there would be a shifting of that money and 10.1 million would be moved over to

                 November and the other half by June. 

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action on establishing a campaign  to assist Habitat for

                 Humanity of Laredo with the collection of aluminum cans from City buildings for a

                 specified period of three months.

 

                 Cm. Garza said that Commissioner Jerry Garza has implemented a program to collect                              enough aluminum cans to build a house for a family which is 80 tons of aluminum.  He                added that he wanted to initiate a program to assists the Council but was told that he                       couldn’t because of legal issues.  He continued by instructing staff to establish a                  campaign to assist Habitat for Humanity of Laredo with the collection of aluminum cans

                 from City building for a specified period of three months.

 

                C.  Request by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on developing a Strategic Comprehensive Plan to                       address the water conservation issues.

 

                 Cm.  Landeck stated that this item was incorrectly posted because he wanted to discuss            water infrastructure and not water conservation issues.

 

                 Motion to table.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Landeck

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                D.  Request by Council Member Johnny Rendon

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on the streets deteriorated streets in the Lakeside

                 Subdivision, specifically 300 Lake Como Street.

 

                 Gabriel Martinez, Engineering Department, said that there was a waterline break in the

                 Lakeside Subdivision causing damage to the streets.  He advised that staff needs to

                 continue to investigate the current problem.  He continued to say that the City is not

                 responsible for a subdivision phase until it is complete. He said that this particular

                 subdivision phase has not been accepted by the City.  If the City has not accepted a            

                 phase the developer is responsible for repairing potholes.

 

                 Cm. Rendon instructed staff to investigate whether or not the city has accepted the                     subdivision Phase IV and if the City has they need to repair the potholes immediately. 

 

            2.  Status report on the playground canopies at the Eistetter Park.

 

                 Miguel Pescador, Parks and Recreation Director, reported that the City of Laredo does

                 have a problem with the vendor that provided the shades for Eistetter Park.  He said that

                 Eistetter is only one of five different shades from the same vendor and staff is diligently

                 trying to contact the company regarding the warranty.  He advised that the canopies are

                 covered by the warranty. 

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action on placing a walkway underneath McPherson Street at

                 the Blas Castañeda Park.

 

                 Cm. Rendon said that the reason that he placed this item on the agenda was because                               there are a lot of children that are crossing McPherson Road to go play at the skate park. 

 

                 Gabriel Martinez, Engineering Department, said that he reviewed the site and it would                be feasible to place a walkway underneath the McPherson Street.

 

                 Motion for staff to return to Council with recommendations to include a walkway                       underneath McPherson Street at the Blas Castaneda Park.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Chavez

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

               E.  Request by Council Member Gene Belmares

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on installing guard rails at Village Boulevard, east of

                 Springfield Street.

 

                 Motion to approve staff to use discretionary fund on installing guard rails at Village                     Boulevard, east of Springfield Street.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Chavez

                 Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                 For:     8                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            2.  Discussion with possible action on re-designating streets to be recycled in District VI.

 

                 Tabled for next meeting.

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action on implementing a water distribution action plan for

                 summer 2007.

 

                 Tabled for next meeting.

 

                 F.  Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Juan Ramirez

 

            1.  Report on the Sister Cities Conference and Festival.

 

                 Mayor Pro Tempore presented a video which reported on the Sister Cities Conference                            and Festival. 

 

                 The video said that the Sister Cities Conference and Festival provided the background

                 for the U. S. Mexico Sister Cities Annual Conference this year.  Mayor Raul Salinas

                 honored almost 500 delegates from Mexico and the United States at the opening

                 ceremony held at the Laredo Civic Center.  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez was the Master

                 of Ceremonies during the event which was attended by the Congressional

                 Representatives from Zacatecas and state government officials from six Mexican states

                 and ten mayors and city government representatives from over 40 Mexican

                 Municipalities.  Professional Opera Singer and Activist, Brenda Jackson, traveled from

                 Philadelphia to perform during the festivities and motivate the Sister Cities Youth

                 Committee comprised of over 60 students. 

 

                 Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, read the cities from California and other visiting                              cities. 

 

            2.  Discussion with possible action on the opening of Tatangelo walkway.

 

                 Cynthia Collazo, Acting City Manager, advised that the opening of Tatangelo walkway

                 will be in approximately sixty days. 

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action on the bad odor at the intersection of Flores Avenue and            Zaragoza Street.

 

                 Raul Perales said that La Posada has invested 15 million dollars despite the fact that their           occupancy is low because of the violence in the sister city.  The City has revitalized the        downtown area and it can become a beautiful facility to a point that it could be the pride           and joy of Laredo, but what good does the revitalization do when you have a horrific                     stench in the downtown area.  He explained that it was disheartening to find out that

                 EPA has a rule that says in order to correct the sewer problem and water distribution

                 problem that causes some of the smell there has to be a very expensive plan in place and

                 it has to be done at the same time.  He asked Council to ask for funds in Washington to             correct the numerous problems in the downtown area. 

 

                 Carl Schwing, Utilities Director, reported that staff flushes the sewer on a weekly basis              starting at the far end of Flores and all the way down to the hotel area. He added that this

                 will continue.  He said that staff has found a few additional problems that have been                  reported to the City Manager.  As far as the sewer separation itself, the last estimate that

                 was reviewed was approximately four million dollars.  He said that there is a proposal to

                 do an additional study for $130,000 and it does not include the design work.  He                       explained that the study to upgrade the entire area will take three years.

 

                 Motion to repair any cracks in the sewer system and to flush the system daily to assist in            eliminating the smell for the downtown area. 

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Garza

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            4.  Discussion with possible action on the location for the water park.

 

                 Cynthia Collazo, Acting City Manager, said that there was a meeting held with the

                 Webb County officials and the City proposed to consider possibilities that they are

                 interested in property for their morgue.  She asked Webb County Judge Danny Valdez to

                 consider exchanging land, approximately 19.5 acres, for the water park.  She further

                 explained that Webb County will proceed with the appraisal and they will return to City

                 staff with recommendations.

 

VIII.    PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

            2.  Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept a $

                 5,000.00 grant from the Laredo Day Break Rotary Club and amend the City of Laredo

                 Fiscal Year 2006-2007 General Fund Annual Budget by appropriating revenues and                                expenditures in the amount of $5,000.00 in the form of a donation to purchase trees      

                 for the purpose of enhancing two areas adjacent to the Zacate Creek located along Clark          and O’kane Streets and in the intersection of Monterrey and Guadalupe Streets                              respectively.

 

                 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

 

            3.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a                                lease agreement with Laredo Equities, LLC for the use of Veteran’s Field.  The lease                                term is for one season beginning on April 1, 2007 and ending on October 1, 2007 a                                rental rate of $50,000.00 per season or $1.00 per ticket sold per year if the total amount           of ticket sales is greater than $50,000.00.  Laredo Equities will also be responsible for all                maintenance, utilities and repairs to Veterans Field during the term of the lease as                            outlined in the lease agreement terms.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing with the amendment to correct April 1st to May 1st. 

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as amended.

 

                 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 Bridge System

                 2006-2007 Bridge annual budget by appropriating $326,561.00 from the Bridge System           Construction fund balance to the Improvements Other than Buildings Account.  Funding                  will be used for expenses related to the Bridge of the Americas Modification Project “El                Portal” and other Bridge related projects.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 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:      6                                         Against:  1                                            Abstain:  0

                                                                        Cm. Chavez

                 Cm.  Garza was no longer present.

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

            5.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 32, “Vehicles for Hire”,

                 Article II, Taxicabs, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo:  specifically                     Section 32-22 initial application for annual permit, 32-35 application, and Section 32-37

                 Term and Renewal, providing for severability and for an effective date and publication.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            6.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007

                 annual budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in the Special Police fund in the              amount of $14,877.00. The increase is to reimburse costs for overtime incurred by the                    Laredo Police Department officers in providing resources for the Weed and Seed                           Community Building Program.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Amaya

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

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

                 2006-2007 annual budget by increasing the grant award amount by $22,344.00 for a total         amount of $110,144.00; and authorizing the City Manager to execute the amendment                     (Exhibit 1) the HOPWA Program Contract #019-3-06 (07) with the South Texas                          Development Council increasing the HIV/AIDS Housing Opportunities for Persons with

                 AIDS Project (HOPWA) grant award amount by $22,344.00 for a total amount of                  $110,144.00 and extending the term by two (2) additional months from January 31, 2007              to March 31, 2007.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                 Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            8.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 12-81 Purpose and

                 Schedule of Article IV Fire Prevention Fees of Chapter 12 Fire Prevention & Prevention           of the Code of Ordinances to revise and amend the fees for inspection services, and                       adding the new sprinkler system modification/remodel, new fire alarm system

                 installation, fire alarm modification/remodel, fire alarm connected to sprinkler system,

                 fire alarm panel replacement; and providing for an effective date.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and table.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Rendon

                 For:     7                                          Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            9.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the

                 City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 5 and 6, Block 274, Eastern Division, located at 2019             Marcella Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-O (Residential/Office                        District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone

                 change.  District III   

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                 Second:  Cm.  Garcia

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Elsa Sanchez requested change for residential office.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm.  Landeck

                 Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                 For:      8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Landeck

        

 

            10.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of

                   the City of Laredo by rezoning 20.82 acres, as further described by metes and bounds              in attached Exhibit "A", located on the west side of Highway 83 south of Mangana-                          Hein Road, from B-3 (Community Business District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing                        District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone                       change.       District III 

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There was no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Landeck

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Landeck                                      

 

            11.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of

                   the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 11 and 12, Block 984, Western Division, located at

                   3920 Santa Ursula Avenue, from B-3 (Community Business District) to B-4 (Highway

                   Commercial District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of

                   the zone change.   District VII     

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Fred Guerra with Guerra Engineering spoke in favor of the zone change with no                         specific use at this time.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and table the item. 

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Chavez

                   Second:  Cm.  Belmares

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

                                         

            12.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of

                   the City of Laredo by rezoning 1.28 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in

                   attached Exhibit “A”, located on the northeast corner of Concord Hills Boulevard and

                  Gage Loop, from R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District) to B-1 (Limited

                  Commercial District).  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of                  the zone change.  District II    

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There was no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing accept staff’s recommendation to approve. 

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Landeck

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  Cm.  Garcia                                        

 

IX.       FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 

 

            Motion to waive the final reading of Ordinances # 2007-O-008, # 2007-O-009, # 2007-O-            010, # 2007-O-11, # 2007-O-12, # 2007-O-13, # 2007-O-014, # 2007-O-015, # 2007-O-            016, # 2007-O-017.

 

            Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            For:     7                                               Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            13.  2007-O-008  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a budget amendment

                                        appropriating operating funds from the Federal Transit Administration                                                    Grant No. TX 90X706 from Fiscal Year 2005-2006 in the amount

                                        $526,487.00 to be used for operating expenses in Fiscal Year 2006-2007

                                        increasing the Federal contribution from $3,700,000.00 to $4,226,487.00

                                        and decreasing the sales tax match for operations from $5,693,440.00 to
                                        $5,166,953.00 and amending the Transit Sales Tax Fund by transferring

                                        $526,487.00 into Transit Sales Tax Fund by transferring $526,487.00 into

                                        Sales Tax Reserve and reducing transfer to operations by $526,487.00.

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-008.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-009  Amending the City of Laredo FY 2006-2007 annual budget by decreasing

                                        the grant award amount by $66,618.00 due to an 8 month award pending

                                        full application from the Texas Department of State Health Services for

                                        the Prevention Services for HIV Prevention Project of the City of Laredo

                                        Health Department for a total amount of $133,236.00, contract period

                                        beginning January 1, 2007, through August 31, 2007, and amending the

                                        Full-Time Equivalent positions by deleting one unfilled Community

                                        Service Aide position to reallocate funds for other program personnel.

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-009.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-010  Amending the City’s Capital Improvement Fund-Los Obispos

                                        Remediation Project FY 2006-2007 Budget by appropriating revenues and                               expenditures in the amount of $36,000.00.  The revenues derive from the                                  settlement agreement between the City of Laredo and Mario Gonzalez,                                                    d/b/a MG Builders.

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-010.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-011  Authorizing the City Manager to amend the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 budget

                                        by allocating the Utility late fees and appropriating revenues and expenses                                  in the amount of $131,290.00 to the Utility Billing Division provided by                                      projected increases in the Utility Late Fees.  Funds will be used to                                             purchase an Automated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) Customer

                                        Service System and cover temporary personnel costs for the non-deposit

                                        special revenue collection project.

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-011.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-012  Amending Ordinance 2004-O-291, which established the rental rates on all

                                        multi-family apartment properties acquired through the FAR Part 150                                                    Airport Noise Compatibility Program and managed by the Laredo

                                        Municipal Housing Corporation (LMHC) by revising the rental rate

                                        structure to ensure the units’ marketability.

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-012.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-013  Amending Ordinance 2003-O-143, which established the rental rates for

                                        the single-family properties purchased through the Laredo International                                                  Airport FAR Part 150 Noise Compatibility Program and managed by the

                                        Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation by revising the rental rate

                                        structure of vacant properties to ensure the marketability of the properties. 

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-013.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-014  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

                                        authorizing a Special Use Permit and drilling permit for oil and/or gas

                                        extraction on 4 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in

                                        attached Exhibit “A”, located east of Interstate Highway 35 south of

                                        termination of South Unitec Drive; providing for publication and effective

                                        date.  (As amended) 

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-014.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   2007-O-015  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by

                                        authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a child daycare center on Lot

                                        687, Block 41, Del Mar Hills, Section 3, Area “A” Subdivision, located at

                                        804 Eden Lane; providing for publication and effective date.  (As

                                        amended) 

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-015.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2007-O-016  Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a lease agreement by and

                                        between the Laredo Transit Management, Inc., and the City of Laredo

                                        Department of Community Development for the lease of 6,628 sq.ft. of

                                        building space at the Laredo Transit Center located at 1301 Farragut

                                       (East), second and third floors (East) for a monthly sum of $4,586.44 for a

                                       term of three (3) years commencing on February 1, 2007.  This action is

                                       contingent upon the continued availability of funding.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance # 2007-O-016.

 

                                       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:     7                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                2007-O-017  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 postpone.

 

                                      Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                                      Second:  Cm.  Garza

                                      For:     8                                 Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

X.        RESOLUTIONS

 

            14.  2007-R-003  Declaring the City of Laredo’s intent to work in partnership with Webb

                                         County on the construction of a fifth international bridge crossing joining                                     the Mexican State of Tamaulipas and the State of Texas and to be located

                                         within the corporate limits of the City of Laredo for the purpose of

                                         meeting the needs of the area’s growing populous;  and authorizing the

                                         city manager to hold formal discussions with Webb County for the

                                         purpose of drafting a memorandum of understanding that will further

                                         reflect the intentions of both parties and which will further the best

                                         interests of both city and county residents; and rescinding Resolution no.

                                         2002-R-025 and Resolution no. 2004-R-067.

 

                                         Mayor Salinas read the following:  Declaring the City of Laredo’s intent

                                         to work in partnership with Webb County on the construction of a fifth

                                         international bridge crossing joining the Mexican State of Tamaulipas

                                         and the State of Texas and to be located within the corporate limits of the

                                         City of Laredo for the Purpose of meeting the needs of the area’s growing

                                         populous; and authorizing the City Manager to hold formal discussions

                                         with Webb County which will further the best interest of both City and

                                         County residence and rescinding Resolution no. 2002-R-025 and

                                         Resolution no. 2004-R-067 as amended.

 

                                         Cynthia Collazo, Acting City Manager, said that the intent of staff is to go

                                         ahead and ask City Council to schedule a workshop and at that time staff

                                         will make a presentation regarding the bridge issue.  She asked the                                            Financial Advisor come down to Laredo as well as the bond counsel to                                                 explain what the impact of a partnership is so everyone would be                                               comfortable.  

                                       

                                         Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-003.

 

                                         Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                         Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                         For:     7                              Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

            15.  2007-R-005  Declaring the public necessity to utilize the area under IH 35 between

                                        Park Street and Sanchez Street as parking area on February 15, 2007, for

                                        the Annual Youth Parade and on February 17, 2007 for the Washington’s

                                        Birthday Parade and authorizing the City Manager to enter into agreement

                                        with Texas Department of Transportation for the use of said property.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-005.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:    7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

            16.  2007-R-006  Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application and, if

                                        awarded, to accept the grant funds from the South Texas Development                                                  Council (STDC) in the amount of $37,000.00 with no matching funds. 

                                        Funds will be used to buy an industrial grade paper shredder at a cost of

                                        $27,000.00, in order that the materials recovery center can recycle paper

                                        that has sensitive information, and $10,000.00 to be used to promote and

                                        educate the public about recycling.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-006.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:    7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

            17.  2007-R-007  Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a license agreement with

                                        Valero Logistics Operations, LP, for the location and maintenance of a 6"

                                        refined oil products pipeline across Beltway Parkway Street in the City of

                                        Laredo, for an initial fee of $290.00, and thereafter an annual fee of

                                        $140.00.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-007.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:    7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

            18.  2007-R-008  Authorizing the City Manager to execute Contract No. 2007-021970

                                        (Exhibit 1) and accept a grant in the amount of $167,600.00 from the                                                    Texas Department of State Health Services for the Tuberculosis

                                        Prevention and Control Federal Project of the City of Laredo Health

                                        Department for the period beginning January 1, 2007 through December                                   31, 2007.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-008.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:    7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

            19.  2007-R-009  A resolution of the City of Laredo to acknowledge and approve the

                                        participation of the Parks and Recreation Department as an active member

                                        of the Weed and Seed Steering Committee.  In an effort to prevent and

                                        reduce violent crime, drug abuse and gang activity occurrences in our

                                        community, the Weed & Seed Steering Committee operates under a U.S.

                                        Department of Justice Grant Program administered and funded by the U.

                                        S. Attorney’s Office.  The City of Laredo finds it to be in the public

                                        interest and benefit to enhance the quality of life of youth at risk through

                                        active participation in this program.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-009.

 

                                        Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                                        For:    7                                Against:  0                                Abstain:  0   

 

XI.       MOTIONS

 

            20.  Amending motion approved on December 4, 2006 for the setting of regular City

                   Council meeting dates through March 2007 due to holidays and/or conferences.  The                               revised meeting dates for March 2007 are March 12, 2007 and March 26, 2007.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            21.  Authorizing the City Manager to approve payment from the City’s Arena Renewal and

                   Replacement Account for the purchase of tempered and acrylic glass and gaskets in a

                   total amount not to exceed $5,100.00.  Funding is available in the Sports and

                   Community Venue Account.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            22.  Authorizing the City Manager to grant a public fireworks display permit for the

                   Washington’s Birthday Celebration for February 18, 2007.  The technician for the

                   fireworks display at Life Downs will be Melrose Pyrotechnics, Incorporated.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                 

 

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            23.  Authorizing the City Manager to include the LCC Sports Complex Projects as part of

                   the City of Laredo Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and consider assisting with

                   partial funding of these projects.

 

                   Blas Castaneda, from Laredo Community College, said that the college has been                       exploring the possibilities of entering into agreements with different governmental

                   entities regarding a sports complex in the main campus and one in the south campus.                  He said that they have started the project in the main campus but they still need

                   additional funds.  The projects will be open to all residents of Laredo.

 

                  Motion to approve.

 

                  Moved:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                  Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                  For:     8                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            24.  Approve the selection of W.D. Shock Company, Inc., to provide plans and

                   specifications and other related services regarding the Federal Aviation Regulation

                   (FAR) Part 150 Airport Residential Sound Reduction Program, as part of the overall

                   City of Laredo International Airport Noise Compatibility Program.  The program is

                   funded ninety five (95) percent federal and five (5) percent local match.  Funding is

                   available in the Airport Construction Fund.

 

                  Motion to approve.

 

                  Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                  Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                  For:     7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            25.  Consideration to authorize the purchase of one rotary cutter, one diesel front mower,

                   and one side discharge mower through the Texas Local Government Purchasing

                   Cooperative Buy  Board contract pricing from Tractor City Uvalde, Texas in the

                   amount of $34,749.35.  This equipment will be assigned to the Airport Department’s

                   ground maintenance operation.  Funding is available in the Airport Department’s

                   budget.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            26.  Consideration to authorize the purchase of one, full size truck through the Houston

                   Galveston Area Council of Government’s (HGAC) cooperative purchase pricing from

                   Caldwell Country Chevrolet, in the total amount of $25,7770.00.  This truck will be

                   assigned to the Police Department.  Funding is available in the 2003 Public Property

                   Finance Contractual Obligation Bond budget and in the Police Trust Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            27.  Consideration to award a contract to sole bidder, Koch Corporation of Louisville,

                   Kentucky, in the amount of $736,882.00 for the soundproofing of twenty-seven (27)

                   City owned homes.  This is referred to as Phase IV of the City of Laredo Residential

                   Sound Insulation Program, which is component of the City of Laredo International

                   Airport Noise Compatibility Program.  Funding is available in the Federal Aviation

                   Administration (FAA) Grant #47-Airport Construction Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            28.  Consideration for approval of acceptance of substantial completion for the City of

                   Laredo Bridge of the Americas Modification Project (El Portal) and release of

                   $500,000.00 from the current retainage of $968,914.99 to the contractor, Leyendecker

                   Construction, Laredo, Texas.  An amount of $468,914.99 is being retained for

                   completion of pending items.  Funding is available in the Bridge System Retainage

                   Restricted Account.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Chavez

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            29.  Authorizing the selection of Alliance Transportation Group, Inc. as a consultant and

                   authorizing staff to enter into negotiations with the selected consultant for the

                   development of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity

                   Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) Compliance Project.  The Metropolitan

                   Planning Organization (MPO) has budgeted $65,039.00 for this project using Federal

                   Planning Grant (PL112) funds.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            30.  Authorizing the selection of Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. as a consultant and

                   authorizing staff to enter into negotiations with the selected consultant for the                              development of the Downtown Signalization Study.  The Metropolitan Planning

                   Organization (MPO) has budgeted $250,000.00 for this project using Federal Planning

                   Grant (PL112) funds.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            31.  Authorizing the City Manager to amend an existing contract with attorney Bruce

                   Wasinger, from the law firm of Bickerstaff, Heath, Pollan & Caroom, L.L.P., for                       professional legal services related to the development of the City of Laredo’s secondary

                   water source project by an additional amount of twenty-five thousand dollars

                   ($25,000.00), not to exceed fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00).  Funding is available in

                   the Utilities Department.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            32.  Consideration to authorize the purchase of one service truck for the Fleet Maintenance

                   Division, in the total amount of $40,683.00, and four pick up trucks for the Health

                   Department’s Animal Control, in the total amount of $99,237.00, from Philpott Motors,

                   through the Buy Board cooperative purchasing program’s contract pricing.  Funding is

                   available in the Fleet Maintenance Fund and the 2006 Public Property Finance

                   Contractual Obligation bond proceeds.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            33.  Consideration for approval of change order No. 1 an increase of $32,025.00 for the

                   balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of approximately 2600

                   linear feet of 12” PVC gravity sewer line along Calle Del Norte Project and approval of

                   final payment of $68,832.00 to Price Construction, Ltd., Big Springs, Texas.  Final

                   contract amount is $398,186.00.  Funding is available in the Calle Del Norte 12” Sewer

                   Line Project in the Sewer Operating Construction Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

            34.  Consideration for the acceptance of the construction of a block fence at the North

                   Laredo Waste Water Treatment Plant and approval for final payment in the amount of

                   $12,868.73 to Zertuche Construction, LLC, Laredo, Texas.  The final contract amount

                   is $129,500.00 and funding is available in the North Laredo Wastewater Treatment                                    Plant account in the 2004 Sewer Revenue Bond.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            35.  Authorizing the City Manager to terminate its 2005 Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG)

                   contract with Catholic Social Services of Laredo, Inc., for Homeless Prevention

                   assistance, for the remaining contract balance of $7,771.76 in unexpended funds, and

                   its contract with CSSL for Shelter Operations assistance, for the remaining contract

                   balance of $5,560.09 in unexpended funds.  These changes pertain to 2005 Emergency             Shelter Grant Funds which were made available by the U.S. Department of Housing                         and Urban Development.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            36.  Consideration to authorize the City Manager to purchase vaccines in the amount

                   $58,600.00 for the 2007-2008 flu season from the Sanofi Pasteur, Inc., the Health                                   Department will utilize the Texas Department of State Health Services’ federal contract

                   pricing with Sanofi Pasteur, Inc., to purchase these vaccines.  Funding is available in                                 Health Department budget.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            37.  Refund of property tax in the amount of $593.37 to the following taxpayers and

                   companies:

 

                        A.  A refund in the amount of $593.37 payable to Valuetree Real Estate Services

                              due to an overpayment.  Account #991-00020-240.

 

                    Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

XII.     STAFF REPORTS

 

            38.  A.  Discussion with possible action to consider Police Officer Geraldo Gonzalez’s first

                         request for an extension of injury leave with pay in accordance with 143.073 (b) of

                         the Texas Local Government Code.

 

                        Dan Migura, Human Resources Director, reported that Geraldo Gonzalez was                           injured on September of 2005. He said that the injury was work related.  He added                   that he has been off work and has completed his 260 loss work days as of January                                24, 2007.  He said that he is currently under treatment.  He has had surgery and                                    needs additional surgery.  He said that that it would be another six months before                                   there would be a clear indication of his ability to return to work.   He recommended                   for Council to consider giving him a 180 day extension of loss work days. 

 

                        Motion to approve 180 day extension of loss work day for officer Geraldo Gonzalez.

 

                        Moved:  Cm. Belmares

                        Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez

                        For:     8                                               Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                   B.  Presentation of the Fiscal Year 2005-2006 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

                         (CAFR) prepared by the City of Laredo’s Financial Services Department and                           audited by the Independent Audit Firm of Garza, Martinez and Company.

 

                         Angie Cantu, presenting the Independent Audit firm of Garza, Martinez, and

                         Company, reported that the audit ending fiscal year September 2006 has been                           completed.  As part of the audit the firm has issued three reports including fairness

                         on the financial statements, compliance with laws and regulations, and internal

                         controls in place that allow the City to prepare the financial statements and to be in

                         compliance with laws and regulations.  All three reports were issued in unqualified

                         opinion.

 

                   C.  Presentation by Miguel A. Pescador, Parks Department Director, regarding the

                         Parks Dedication Ordinance, with possible action.

 

                         Motion to table.

                       

                         Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                         Second:  Cm. Amaya

                         For:     7                                  Agaisnt:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XIII.    EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

            The City Council hereby reserves the right to go into executive session at any time during             this public meeting, if such is requested by the City Attorney or other legal counsel for the             City, pursuant to his or her duty under Section 551.071(2) of the Government Code, to             consult privately with his or her client on an item on the agenda, or on a matter arising out           of such item.

 

 

            39.  Request for Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071 (1) (A) of the Government

                   Code (Contemplated Litigation) to consult with the City Attorney regarding

                   construction contract with Lassen, Inc., Austin,  Texas, for the construction project

                   known as the Zacate Creek Wastewater Treatment Plat Re-Aeration Tanks Lining

                   Project, and return to open session for possible action.

 

                   Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Section 551.071 (1) (A) of the                         Government Code (Contemplated Litigation) to consult with the City Attorney

                   regarding construction contract with Lassen, Inc., Austin,  Texas, for the construction

                   project known as the Zacate Creek Wastewater Treatment Plat Re-Aeration Tanks

                   Lining Project, and return to open session for possible action.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                   Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0 

 

                   After Executive Session Mayor Raul Salinas announced that no formal action was                      taken. 

 

            40.  Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071

                   (1) (A) to consult with attorney on the pending eminent domain case of City of Laredo

                   v. Luis Montano, et al, Cause No. 2006CVQ002207C3 in County Court at Law No. 2,

                   Webb County, Texas, and return to open session for possible action.

 

                   Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section                    551.071 (1) (A) to consult with attorney on the pending eminent domain case of City of                    Laredo v. Luis Montano, et al, Cause No. 2006CVQ002207C3 in County Court at Law                 No. 2, Webb County, Texas, and return to open session for possible action.

 

                   Motion to table.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garcia

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0  

             

            41.  Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code 551.074 to

                   deliberate the appointment or employment of the City Manager and to evaluate all

                   twenty (20) applicants, both qualified and unqualified and return to open session for                                 possible action.

               

                        Richard Davis*                                     Ofelia Mena        

                        Mark Roath*                                        Jesus Amezcua

                        Larry Deetjen*                                     Steve Bryant

                        Scott Randall*                         Alexandre Povolotski

                        Oscar Rodriguez*                    Albert Uresti

                        Scott Albert*                                        Herman Middlebrooks

                        Michael Dyal*                                      Juan Costales

                        Carlos Villarreal*                                  Dennis Sparks

                        Thomas Christi*                                   Adan Maldonado

                        Willie Best                                            Arturo Barrera, Jr.

                  *Denotes Qualified Applicants

 

                   Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code 551.074 to

                   deliberate the appointment or employment of the City Manager and to evaluate all

                   twenty (20) applicants, both qualified and unqualified and return to open session for                                 possible action.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                   Second:  Cm.  Chavez

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0 

 

                   After Executive Session Mayor Raul Salinas announced that no formal action was                      taken. 

 

                   Motion to consider Michael Dyal, Carlos Villarreal, and Oscar Rodriguez.

 

                   Moved:  Cm.  Garza

                   Second:  Cm.  Amaya

                   For:     8                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Motion to set a special call date for appointment on March 12, 2007 and if that date is              not possible it should be held on March 26, 2007 at 5:30 p.m.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garza

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:     9                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XIV. ADJOURNMENT

 

CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

A-2006-S-03

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

FEBRUARY 5, 2007

5:30 P.M.

 

SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA

 

I.            PUBLIC HEARING

 

1.      Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo 2007 Capital Improvement Fund budget by appropriating $58,000.00 in revenues and expenditures for a traffic light at the San Isidro Subdivision and accepting a donation of $58,000.00 from the Blackstone Dilworth Family.

 

                 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. Amaya

                 For:      7                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction: City Council

 

II.         MOTION

 

1.         Authorization to award and execute a contract with Ricardo Aguero DBA Larecon LLC., of Laredo, Texas in the amount of $50,780.00 for the emergency repairs of 2 collapsed manholes along IH 35 with the installation of 4 new manholes and 60 L.F. of 24 inch DR 26 Pipe to avoid conflicts with the improvements proposed by the Texas Department of Transportation. Funds are available in the Sewer Fund - TxDOT Utility Relocation Account.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

2.         Authorization to award and execute an agreement with the sole bidder Laredo Hills Ltd., LLP., for the use of 600 Living Unit Equivalents of available sewage line capacity in the twenty four (24”) inch Colonias sewer line that is located east of Bob Bullock Loop and along the Texas Mexican Railroad right-of-way, with a monthly rent of $2,500.00, a three (3) year term, and a required letter of credit in the amount of $667,920.00 payable to the City of Laredo.

 

       Motion to approve.

 

       Moved:  Cm.  Belmares

       Second:  Cm.  Amaya

       For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:

 

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.  Rendon

            Second:  Cm.  Amaya

            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 28 and they are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on February 5, 2007.

 

 

                                                                                                ________________________

                                                                                                Gustavo Guevara, Jr.               

City Secretary