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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2007-R-10 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 MAY 21, 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 Carlos Villarreal, City Attorney Cynthia Collazo, Deputy City Manager Horacio De Leon, Assistant City Manager Jesus Olivares, Assistant City Manager Anthony McGettrick, Assistant City Attorney
IV. MINUTES
None.
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Recognitions
a. Recognition of the 2007 School Bell Awards Recipients. Mayor and City Council presented the following students with a Seven Flags Certificate for receiving the 2007 School Bell Award which read “Your dedication and achievement in the field of Education is truly an inspiration to the children of this great City”:
Norma Elizabeth Hachar, Mary Help of Christians Martha Montemayor, St. Augustine Elementary Dennis P Crowell, Laredo Community College Maria Gloria Gonzalez, Heights Elementary Jose G. Monte, Lamar Middle School Kamel Shrek, Martin High School Sean Sedwell TAMIU Ana Maria R. Garcia, George Washington Middle School Hilda Dovalina Castro, Nye Elementary Rosalinda Arzola, United South High School
b. Recognition of Yu Juan “Rena Ren”, of the Library Department, on her selection as May 2007 employee of the month.
Janice Weber, Library Director, stated that Rena Ren has been working with the Library for six years. She has done an extraordinary job in collaborating with the businesses in the community. She noted that she is very involved with the State and National Library Associations. She has worked with local school districts in organizing the Forth Annual Poetry Festival which had over 1,000 participants. She went on to say that she is very deserving of being Employee of the Month because she is kind and good at promoting customer service.
Communiqués
a. Presentation by Webb County Commissioner Jerry Garza of a $5,000.00 donation to the All America Award Program.
Jerry Garza, County Commissioner, noted that Laredoans know that the City of Laredo is an “All American City” and he wants the nation to know. In the spirit of cooperation that the County and City have embarked on, he thought it would be beneficial to embark on the mission of competing for the All American Award Program. He noted that the County is 100% behind the cities effort to certify the title of All America Award Program. He presented City Council a check for $5,000.00 to be used in obtaining the title for the City.
b. Presentation titled "Council for Educational Excellence" by Dr. Juan L. Maldonado, President Elect, Laredo Community College.
Dr. Juan L. Maldonado, President Elect, Laredo Community College, thanked Council for allowing him to give a presentation that has been born out of two primary inheritants. The first which mandates that all public institutions of education in Texas must develop the type of programming and curriculum that is going to provide students with early college programs; with curriculums that have them college ready by the time they finish high school; and allow students an opportunity to select a specific career. That mandate combined with a mandate from our community which shows concerns for drop out rates and scores which gave birth to this effort. He noted that he was in attendance to seek their participation in the Council for educational excellence.
Cm. Garcia announced that the Sister Cities Youth Committee recently visited San Miguel De Allende where they were able to meet ambassadors from all over the world including Peru, South Africa, Austria, El Salvador, Korea, Turkey, Japan, Costa Rica, Hungry, Greece, and Russia. He noted that the Youth Committee did an outstanding job in representing the city of Laredo.
Cm. Landeck said that he had the opportunity to attend an event at the City of Laredo Police Department where stellar employees were recognized during National Police Week. He noted that it was a very special event and he felt honored to be able to attend.
Cm. Amaya mentioned that the District IV Scholarship Committee selected twenty-five students throughout Laredo to receive scholarships to further their education. He announced that the Committee has been able to distribute over $50,000 in the past five years to qualified students.
Cm. Rendon thanked City of Laredo Public Works for working on the erosion at the Blas Casteneda Park Creek Area. He also announced that he had attended scholarship night at several schools and he thanked the Council Members for distributing scholarships to the graduating Seniors.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez thanked AEP for installing lights between Garden and Jefferson on Juarez/Convent and on San Augustine and Flores. He said that the neighbors are grateful and are positive that it will reduce the criminal activity within that area.
Mayor Salinas thanked GEO for committing to annually distributing $25,000 to graduating seniors graduating from high schools throughout Laredo including San Augustine. He also thanked City of Laredo Public Works Department and TxDOT for repairing a pothole on the Del Mar exit. He noted that he was thankful to TxDOT for the keeping a positive communication with the City of Laredo. He complimented the Chief and his staff for organizing the annual awards night for the Police Department during the National Police Week. He further explained that he had received a lot of “hate” mail because he was opposed to the fence between Mexico and Texas. He said that he feels that the fence would not be the answer to terrorism. He added that the fight against terrorism should be fought with eyes and ears on both sides of the border and the participation of each individual.
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.
Tom Vaugh spoke on the wetlands stating that the Council should take some action in protecting the acreage across the airport as wetlands.
Estela Quintanilla spoke on the 4th of July celebration and asked for support in advertising for the whole city.
Elizabeth Prieto asked Mayor and Council for their support for a girl’s soccer field.
Jose Prieto asked for support for a girl’s soccer field.
Richard Geissler spoke on the Casa Blanca wetlands and its protection. Daniel de la Miyar spoke on behalf of SCAN and on teen drinking as their advice to the parents to create awareness.
Roberto Angel Limon spoke on the protection of the wetlands at Lake Casa Blanca.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
a. Appointment by Mayor Raul G. Salinas of Ignacio Alaniz, Fred De Luna, Starr Zolton, Benjamin Hinojosa, and Manuel Guerra to the Building Standards Board.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Garza For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
b. Appointment by Mayor Raul G. Salinas of Steven L. Mondragon, P.H.D., Edna Castañeda, Jorge Gonzalez, and Sonia Benavides to the Housing Finance Corporation Board.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
c. Confirmation of Robert Saucedo, Monica Perales Garcia, Carolyn Wilbur, Crisanta Musset, Tracey Melendez and Robert Palomin to the Keep Laredo Beautiful, Inc. Board of Directors.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. A. Request by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck
1. Discussion with possible action on issues related to the wetlands and green space of Lake Casa Blanca with presentations by Remy Salinas and Dr. Jim Earhart.
Remy Salinas suggested rescinding the sale of the wetlands and green space and look into constructing a water park in order to take advantage of the improvements that are already underground on the 88 acres. He said that this is a lesson that he thinks that the City Council and the City Administration can take to heart. He noted that there are professional real estate developers that look out for assurances and check encumbrances to make sure that there are no errors in property closings.
Dr. Earhart presented City Council with a box with 10,000 signatures from citizens opposing the proposed changes to the wetlands on Lake Casa Blanca. He said that the citizens of Laredo do not want to see the proposed changes take place because they have been using the lake for generations and they care about it.
Motion to instruct the staff of the City of Laredo not to sign a contract regarding the wetlands until all the legal issues are clarified.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Ramirez
Cm. Garza explained that the entire process of the sale for the project started before several of the Council Members were on board; therefore, he was not sure of possible legal ramifications since there is a lease agreement with the developer.
Remy Salinas commented that the lease agreement could be voided depending on the grant assurances.
Jose Flores, Airport Director, advised that the federal aviation administration is fully aware that there is a proposal to sell the said property. They are also aware that this property is under a long term lease. The City of Laredo has not heard any objections from the federal aviation administration. The federal government conveys “excess” land for aeronautical purpose so communities can develop properties and attempt to be as self sufficient. The FAA would benefit if the City of Laredo could be more self sufficient.
Cm. Garza asked if the 404 permit was denied.
Remy Salinas said that he had researched 404 permits in this district and there had been no denials. He noted that this district is under a tremendous amount of political pressure to approve and that is the problem. He said that lobbyists approached the Corp of Engineers regarding the approval of 404 permits in this area.
Cm. Garza asked if the destruction of this wetland would destroy Lake Casa Blanca.
Remy Salinas said that it would not destroy the lake but it would set precedence. He continued to say that if this destruction of wetlands takes place that the City is subjecting the entire upper watershed to the same type of treatment. He said that developers are running out of land inside the Loop.
Cm. Garza made note that the citizens may have been misled when they signed the petition. He said that they may believe that the development of said area would completely destroy Lake Casa Blanca.
Remy Salinas said that Cm. Garza was discrediting the population of Laredo. He continued by saying they read the petition and their votes should not be discredited in any way.
Remy Salinas said that the subject property has a federal project on it which carries a lot of responsibility.
Jose Flores, Airport Director, explained that Mr. Salinas assumes that federal funding was used for the oversizing of the storm drainage system and the construction of the detention pond; however, federal government never pays 100% for a project and there were local monies used in the project. Staff is in the process of finding out exactly the source of funding which took place over twelve years ago.
Cm. Landeck said that he thinks it is also important to bring in the issue of the green space that Mr. Salinas is talking about because he doesn’t see any advantage to the developer even if it passes the 404 permit, because he may not be able to get through green space. He mentioned that there were different interpretations whether the land is grandfathered or not and if it does fall under the green space order, more clarification is needed before further errors are made by the City. He asked Council to support him by stopping all action on the item in order to do further legal clarifications.
T. J Connelly , from Merchants Holding, stated that he would like to address a couple of issues. He began by stating that destroying the wetlands or polluting Lake Casa Blanca is not an option with this development. The developer is investing $120 million dollars to build the development that would abut Lake Casa Blanca and the wetlands. The wetlands and Lake Casa Blanca add value to his $120 dollar development that will increase retail, hotel and restaurant values. It is in the developer’s best interest to ensure that the quality of Lake Casa Blanca not be held to the standard that it is in today, but it improves the rendering that you were shown on the type of infiltration system. He continued by saying that there is federal laws that prohibit lobbying the Corp of Engineers. He stated that the Corp of Engineers will dictate to the developer the level of quality insurance that they need to put into the development. The developer is installing a one million dollar state of the art infiltration system unlike any other development in Laredo. He advised that the developer has spent a large amount of money in advance of being granted the 404 permit, because he has been working as a developer for 30 years and he has complied in California, George, and Florida.
Cm. Landeck asked Mr. Connelly is he felt that his company would abide by the green space ordinance in this particular development.
Mr. Connelly said that he would have to defer that to the legal department. He concurred with Council Garza that this process began under a former Council and Mayor and he acknowledged that a contract was in place. He reassured Council that the developer will continue to follow all the rules on the books and he asked Council to honor the contract. He said that it has always been the intent of Merchants Holdings to develop 88 acres to achieve the return on the $120 million dollar investment. He stressed that Merchants Holdings has not deviated from their plan.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, explained that the Attorneys have noted that the plat indicates vested rights; hence, the developer does not have to comply with the green space ordinance. More dialogue might surface to be able to allay some of the fears of some of the individuals attending Council, but that is what we understand as far as our City Attorney’s call as far as the law is concerned.
Cm. Landeck said that he wants to know from the City Manager if the information is correct that the City is going to sign the contract on the 31st. In order not to complicate the issues, he suggested for City staff not to sign it on the 31st until some of these issues are resolved.
Mr. Connelly asked Council to allow staff to proceed with the developer’s stand point. He said that the company has complied with all of the rules and obligations. He added that they have gone through the public comment period with the Corp of Engineers and they are proceeding in their plans for the filtration system. He said that they would not support any delays.
Anthony McGettrick, Assistant City Attorney, advised that there is no “contract” to be signed. He noted that they are awaiting the deed from the City to the company.
Cm. Landeck inquired if the closing could be stopped.
Jose Flores, Airport Director, advised that the bid specifications required closing thirty days; however, it was amended to sixty days and that would expire on June 4, 2007.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, said that he would want to go on record noting that there is a major replat. He said that if anyone thinks that the Corps of Engineers or any federal agency is going to be operating on whether they are “obtaining” their number of permits, they are misinformed. He said that he has worked with the Corp of Engineers for 37 years and he has never seen the Corp submit a decision based on whether they are going to give you a permit or whether they think that they will be generating more money associated with permits. They are very stringent and technical. He added that the City of Laredo cannot stop the development because there is an agreement in place.
Cm. Landeck noted that he did not say a word about the Corp of Engineers and it was not included in his motion.
Carlos Villarreal explained that he was responding to other statements that have been made at this meeting.
Cm. Landeck said there is a lack of clarity about the green space and whether the company is free to do whatever they want to with the green space. He said that he was asking for legal clarification on the postponement. He said that since the City had originally required a 30 day deadline and they changed it to sixty days; therefore, he wanted to move the date to 90 days which would allow Council enough time to research all the other issues including the 404 permit.
Anthony McGettrick, City Attorney, advised that he had written an opinion which gave his opinion and he stands by it. He said that if Council decides not to have faith in him as an attorney then so be it. He said that it is under his conclusion that under the state law if the buyer does not change the plat they have a vested right to proceed by taking advantage of the exception granted under the Green Space Ordinance. He said that he did not want his opinion to be abated. He stressed that he feels that the property is vested. The one proviso is if the buyer changes the plat then he may be creating a problem.
Cm. Landeck mentioned that he is aware that the Attorney General has sent decisions of the courts which are contrary to his decision.
Anthony McGettrick, Assistant City Attorney, disagreed with Cm. Landeck because he said that he had discussed the opinion of the Attorney General in his memorandum which suggests to him that some or all of the Council Members did not bothered reading it.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, concurred with Mr. McGettrick noting that staff had held a meeting to discuss all angles from all sides taking into consideration some of the observations. He said that it is a big difference when you are changing from one lot verses the opinion that was handed out by the 4th Court of Appeals that indicates that it is going from one lot to one hundred and fifty four lots. He noted that the number in lots is why there has been a change made.
Cm. Landeck expressed his concerns that the opinion of the City Attorney will destroy the whole green space.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, explained that it would not destroy the green space.
Anthony McGettrick, Assistant City Attorney, said that there is one thing that should be know about his opinion. He said that the City could claim the exemption and he did not mandate it. He said that as a legislative body they can take another view of whether they should claim that exemption, but there are factors pro and con because this transaction has been of long standing.
Motion to table.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second:
Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, noted that a motion to table takes precedence over any other motion.
Mayor called for a second.
Motion failed.
Cm. Belmares pointed out that the developer has a contract and regardless of City Council’s decision to sign the closing they can continue their construction.
Cm. Landeck noted that if the City continues to proceed with the sale it would be a step in the wrong direction.
Mayor Salinas called for the question.
Motion to instruct staff not to sign the contract on the closing of the 88.6913 acres.
Moved: Cm. Landeck. Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 2 Against: 5 Abstain: 1 Cm. Landeck Cm. Garza Cm. Chavez Cm. Ramirez Cm. Garcia Cm. Amaya Cm. Rendon Cm. Belmares
Motion fails.
B. Request by Council Member Juan Chavez
1. Motion to sell, through a bidding process, most surplus residential lots, and residential homes with possible action.
Cm. Chavez mentioned that there is a list of city lots to be sold through a bidding process provided by the City Manager that may need to be amended by the City Council members. He said that he would like to delete a lot on La Herradura street.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, advised that he would provide a list of the individual lots for Council to review. He said that the lots must sell at market value; therefore, he would be getting appraisals on the lots.
Motion to instruct staff to proceed.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Status report on the water conservation enforcement, with possible action
Tomas Rodriguez, Utilities Director, said that forty enforcement inspectors were trained on water enforcement law and the department has hired a Water Conservation Inspector who works after five and on weekends. He has issued 19 door hanger warnings and 64 written warnings. On May 5th & 6th the inspectors worked over time to enforce the water conservations.
C. Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Juan Ramirez
1. Discussion with possible action on the Fourth of July Parade.
Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez said that the City of Laredo will be organizing a Fourth of July Parade that will begin at St. Peter’s Plaza at nine o’clock in the morning. He continued by saying that it will continue east on Matamores and then North on San Bernardo to the Civic Center. Once the parade is finished, the City has organized events for the public to enjoy.
2. Discussion with possible action to consider designating the south side of the Seven Flags Park located at 1508 Monterrey Street to the Laredo Girls Soccer League.
Miguel Pescador, Parks Director, reported that the problem is the shortage of soccer fields for all the different leagues. He noted that the soccer sport is growing at a tremendous rate. He recommended allowing the leagues to play at the Seven Flags Park, but do a month or per season schedule based on requests. He added that all leagues should be able to play at the same field because of the demand for the sport. He informed Council that the Seven Flags Park was established with CDBG funds which caused a concern for staff.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, said that staff would meet with city administrators to work out the logistics for the Laredo Girls Soccer League. He assured the Council that he would work with the girls soccer league.
VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a two (2) year concession agreement between the City of Laredo and Miguel Angel Inclan, D.B.A “La Sabrosita” for the right to sell food and non-alcoholic beverages from a cart at the corners of Lincoln and Convent, and Hidalgo and Convent for a total lease amount of $565.00 per month.
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 amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $30,000.00 for the All America City Award Program and accepting the donations from various businesses and/or agencies that will help defray the cost of the competition.
Motion to postpone.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to sign the supplemental agreement to the standard utility agreement of March 12, 2007, with the Texas Department of Transportation, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A; authorizing and amendment to the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Sanitary Sewer Construction TXDOT improvements line item to increase the amount appropriated to $81,310.00 for construction of a wastewater line at the Highway Loop 20 from 0.2 miles North of Spur 400 to 1.68 miles North of US Highway 59; and authorizing Kiewit Texas Construction L.P. to construct the sanitary sewer line as proposed in the supplemental agreement No.1 U-11024 approved by the Texas Department of Transportation.
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 the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Special Use Permit for a communication tower on .92 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located on the West side of Bob Bullock Loop North of Winfield Parkway. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Special Use Permit. District VI
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: Cm. Belmares
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 9.98 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located North of Shiloh Drive East of Livingston Drive, from R-1 (Single-Family Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-Family Residential District). The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone change. District VI
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: Cm. Belmares
7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning all of Blocks 1713 and 1782 and 15,433.46 square feet out of New York Avenue, bounded on the North by the South line of Chacon Street, on the East by the West line of Block 1782, Eastern Division, as further described by metes and bounds in attached “Exhibit A”, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-2 (Multi- Family Residential District). The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the zone change. District III
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. Landeck Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Landeck
8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a duplex on Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block 998, Eastern Division, located at 1803 Chacon Street. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit. District III
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning Director, explained that there was an amendment to the communication, because the Planning & Zoning Commission supported a sixth condition that does not show up in the Ordinance but it is in the communication. The sixth condition says that the site will be subject to revocation of Conditional Use Permit if found to be in violation of any city ordinance.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce as amended.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Landeck
9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning .72 acres, as further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A”, located at 18211 F.M. 1472, from AG (Agricultural District) to B- 4 (Highway Commercial District). The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended denial of the zone change. District VII
Motion to postpone.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Garza For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
10. Defining the actual and necessary expenses which may be reimbursed to the Mayor and Council Members pursuant to Section 2.02 of the City Charter and providing for the procedures for such reimbursement.
Anthony McGettrick, City Attorney, said that there was a typing error which states that in Section 6 where in references made to Section 3 it should read Section 5. That is Section VI will read “no final payment will be paid on any reimbursement for expenses until the supporting paper work is provided as required by Section V rather than III .
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, read “Section III B was left at home office cost determined basis of actual square footage and percentage of use allowance for parking, utilities, taxes, and insurance is provided for on a form to be provided by the Director of Financial Services but not to exceed (blank) for month”. He said that staff needs a recommendation for that space.
Cm. Garza recommended not exceeding the allowance for vehicle usage.
Cm. Ramirez said that it depends on the area.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Ground Lease with T-Mobile Texas, LP, a Delaware limited partnership, for ground space at 2417 N. New York Avenue, Laredo, Webb County, Texas and being more fully described in Exhibit “A” of Ground Lease, to construct on such premises an equipment building or cabinets on a platform and a 110’ monopole tower (“Tower”), more fully described in Exhibit “C” of the lease agreement, for the purpose of providing cell services and for co-locations, if approved by Landlord, and related equipment for use in connection with its communications business. The term of the lease is five (5) years commencing June 5, 2007 and ending June 4, 2012 with four (4) successive renewal terms of five (5) years. Annual base rent shall be $15,000.00 each year during the term of the lease and will be increased by five percent (5%) on each anniversary of the commencement date, providing for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to approve the Final Reading of Ordinances # 2007-O-085, 2007-O-086, 2007-O- 087, 2007-O-088, and 2007-O-089.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 12. 2007-O-085 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2007 Solid Waste Fund Budget by appropriating a drawdown of $1,609,960.00 from the opening balance and appropriating it for equipment acquisition. The project consists of a Holt Cat Excavator, John Deere Dozer and (2) two Articulated Dump Trucks. The bid price includes provisions for a five year warranty.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-085.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-086 Accepting funds in the amount of $10,710.00 from the South Texas 9-1-1 Regional Administration Division to cost share personnel at the Laredo Police Department Public Safety Answering Point in accordance with Section 771.0751 of the Texas Health and Safety Code and Rule 251.3 Use of Revenue in Certain Counties from the Commission of State Emergency Communications; and amending Fiscal Year 2006-2007 General Fund Budget of the City of Laredo by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $10,710.00 for salary expense for the Laredo Police Department Communications Division salaries.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-086.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-087 Authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute the Local Projects Grant Program in the amount of $10,000.00 from the Texas Department of State Health Services and to amend the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Special Fire Grant budget to appropriate the said grant award. The funds will be used to purchase one (1) Life Pak 12 EKG which will replace the current aging EKG equipment.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-087.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-088 Authorizing the City Manager to exercise the first five year renewal option for the lease agreement by and between the City of Laredo, and Greyhound Lines, Inc. /Valley Transit Company joint venture for a certain premise of 5,000 square feet of commercial area together with a bus parking area containing approximately 18,000 square feet at the Laredo Intermodal Transit Center and described as all of Block Number 49, located in the Western Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas. The term of the lease shall commence on July 1, 2007 and end on June 30, 2012, for the monthly rent of $9,572.61 per month.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-088.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-089 An ordinance deleting Section 24.1.7 [Tree Board] of the Land Development Code to abolish the Tree Board; and amending Section 23- 18 [Duties] of Article II [Parks and Recreation Board] of Chapter 23 [Parks and Recreation] of the Code of Ordinances, to add to the duties of that board, the duties formerly carried out by the Tree Board; and amending Section 23-16 [Established] to provide for ex-officio members for the Parks and Recreation Board. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of this item.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-089.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
13. 2007-R-034 Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Laredo, Webb County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife Parks Division, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Law Enforcement Division, for a three year period beginning June 1, 2007 and ending May 31, 2010. The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is to solidify the area’s law enforcement agencies commitment to assist Texas Parks and Wildlife in providing law enforcement response and services to the Lake Casa Blanca International State Park.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-034.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 2007-R-036 Authorizing the Mayor of the City of Laredo to execute the Metropolitan Planning Contract between the Texas Department of Transportation, the Laredo Urban Transportation Study which has been designated the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Laredo Urbanized area, and the City of Laredo, which serves as the fiscal agent for the MPO.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-036.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 2007-R-037 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant in the amount of $20,000.00 from the Texas Department of Transportation to fund the Click it or Ticket Program. The Texas Department of Transportation will be designating $20,000.00 and the City of Laredo will be designating $5,490.00 in matching funds. The funding period for this grant will be from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-037.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 2007-R-039 Authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement between the City of Laredo and Laredo Independent School District to provide library services at Cigarroa High School for the South Laredo area. Funding is available in the General Fund-Library Department.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-039 with amending the word “High” school to Middle School.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 2007-R-041 Adopting and directing the implementation of the guidelines and standards for assignment of municipal vehicles, and for the provision of travel allowances in lieu of assignment of a municipal vehicle to certain directors and other employees of the City, as set forth in attached Exhibit A.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-041.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 2007-R-042 Approving amendment No. 2 of the Operating Agreement between the City of Laredo and Arena Ventures, L.L.C. to provide an estimated $412,000.00 with assistance in deferring such costs as the following: Renewal and Replacement fund, Casualty, Boiler and Machinery, and General Liability insurance and marketing expenditures. Funding is available in the Arena Fund, Risk Fund, and Hotel Motel Fund.
Motion to approve Resolution # 2007-R-042.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 7 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Ramirez
XII. MOTIONS
19. Appointment of Mayor Pro Tempore as per Ordinance 90-O-101. City Council shall confirm one of the Council Members who shall be known and designated as Mayor Pro Tempore.
Cm. Garcia proposed an ordinance in the future that would allow the Mayor Pro Tempore to receive compensation for his/her title. He suggested for the new salary to be between what the Mayor receives and what City Council receives.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, asked Council to allow him time to research the item and return to Council with recommendations as to when they would be able to bring forth an ordinance changing the salary.
Motion to confirm Cm. Belmares as the Mayor Pro Tempore.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorizing the City Manager to execute two addendums to existing Interlocal Agreements for E9-1-1 Service, PSAP Equipment, and Address/Addressing Maintenance between the City of Laredo and individually the Counties of Webb, Starr, Jim Hogg, and Zapata, and Cities of Roma, Rio Grande City, and Laredo which further outline 9-1-1 database maintenance responsibilities for each.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with The Waters Consulting Group, Inc. for consulting services for an organization analysis study in the amount of $39,000.00 plus project related expenses. Funding is available in the General Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Consideration to award contract 07-110 to A-1 Dry Cleaners, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $57,720.00 for dry cleaning services for uniformed police officers; and consideration to award contract FY07-109 to Valu Care Cleaners, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $32,940.00 for providing dry cleaning services for non uniformed police officers. The City must provide dry cleaning services as a condition of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. The term of these agreements shall be for one year with an option to renew for one (1) additional year. Funding is available in the Police Department Budget.
Motion to table.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration for approval of change order no. 1 an increase of $71,335.00 for additional dense concrete overlay repair, additional concrete pavement reconstruction and additional clean/sealing pavement joints and to add ten (10) working days to the contract time to the construction contract with Restek, Inc., Austin, Texas, for the Laredo Colombia International Bridge Superstructure Rehabilitation. Current construction contract amount is $503,972.90. Funding is available in the Laredo Bridge System Fund – Revenue Bond 2005A.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to authorize the purchase of two articulated dump trucks and one excavator in the total amount of $1,088,500.00 from Holt Caterpillar, Laredo, Texas; and one landfill dozer in the total amount of $509,500.00 from RDO Equipment Company, Mercedes, Texas for the Solid Waste Department. Funding is available in the Solid Waste budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: Abstain:
25. Authorizing the award of a contract in the amount of $210,977.20 to Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., for the development of plans to implement the initial phase of the City of Laredo Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Master Plan. Funding is available from the Federal Surface Transportation Funds.
Motion to postpone.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Consideration to award contract FY07-091 to the low bidder, UTW Tire Company, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $120,000.00 for the removal and disposal of tires at the City Landfill. Staff estimates that 600 tons of used tires will be disposed per year. Funding is available in the Solid Waste budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Authorization to award and execute a contract with Ricardo Aguero DBA Larecon, LLC of Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $54,157.50 for the emergency by-pass pumping of the existing sanitary sewer flows. The contract consists of the installation, mobilization and one week rent of by-pass pumps including the forklift to move the equipment to two (2) different locations. Funding is available in the 2006 Sewer Bond- TXDOT US Highway 59/Loop 20/US Highway 359 Project Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Refund of property tax in the amount of $1,914.23 payable to First American Title Insurance Company of Texas due to an overpayment from Account #945-00851-396.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amounts to be adjusted for the month of April 2007, represents a decrease of $12,025.14. These adjustments are determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Consideration to award contract FY07-116 to Gutierrez Machine Shop, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $140,000.00 for professional welding services for the Utilities Department. The services requested include site repairs to various water and wastewater treatment plants, lift stations, and other municipal utility facilities. The contract takes into account the following hourly pay rates; regular, overtime, holiday, service call, and the cost of materials. Funding is available in the Utilities Department budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. Award of a construction contract to the lowest bidder Landmark Structures Inc., Fort Worth, Texas in the amount of $1,960,654.00 for the construction of the Sierra Vista 1.5 Million Gallon Elevated Storage Tank to be located Northeast of Hwy 83 and La Pita Mangana Rd. The 1.5 Million Gallon Elevated Storage Tank will provide adequate pressure to the immediate area and will provide the adequate water storage capacity for the summer peak demands. The contract will be awarded with a construction time of 400 calendar days. Funding is available in the 1997, 1999, 2000, 2005 and 2006 Water Bond Issuance.
Tomas Rodriguez, Utilities Director, explained that when this item was placed on the agenda, he had been employed for one day. He said that after a short time, he has changed his opinion as to what he had recommended. He said that he needs to recommend a 2 million gallon tank.
Motion to approve with the amendment on the amount to state “$2,076,404.00.”
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya
Motion withdrawn.
Motion to table.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration to authorize a two year contract with Verizon Wireless, Laurel, MD, for providing digital wireless broadband service at a unit cost of $48.59 per account per month for the Police and Fire Departments. Wireless broadband network is required to provide the communication link between the Police/Fire Dispatch center to mobile data terminals (MDT) installed on first responder vehicles and notebook computers. There is a current requirement for 272 units however the number of active accounts is contingent upon the needs of the Police and Fire Departments and available funding. Based on 272 units the estimated annual cost would be $158,597.76. Funding is available in the Police and Fire Departments budgets.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Consideration to award contracts to 30 qualified book vendors for library materials collection development for books and audio-visual products for a period of two years. Subject to future budget appropriations. Funding is available in the Library Department Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORTS
34. A. Presentation by Jessica L. Newsome-Hein, Communications and Administrative Services Director, regarding the 3-1-1 customer service program.
Jessica L. Newsome-Hein, Director of Communications and Administrative Services Director, gave a comprehensive presentation on the 3-1-1 customer service program.
What is 3-1-1?
§ Phone number designated by the FCC in 1997 for non-emergency governmental services. § Purpose of 3-1-1 is to enhance customer service to area residents. § Easy to remember number for residents to call for information or to request services. § Provide consistent information through consolidated call center. § Track, refer, and respond to residents’ service requests through consolidated call center.
Information requests – examples (70% of total calls)
§ Where do I pay my parking ticket? § What are the hours of operation? § What is the garbage pick up schedule? § When does City Council meet? § Who is my Council Member?
Service requests – examples (30% of calls)
§ Dead animal pick up. § Pot hole repair. § Remove abandoned vehicle. § Report weeded lots.
3-1-1 System Components
Telephone Network Call Center Call Management Customer Relationship Management
3-1-1 System Components
Telephone Network
Routes all 3-1-1 calls to a centralized call center. Allows access to landline, wireless, and Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) calls. Provides access to hearing impaired/deaf callers.
Call Center
§ Centralized center that answers all incoming 3-1-1 calls. § Highly trained staff to handle different types of information and service requests. § Allow for other modes of communication from residents such as fax, email, on-line, etc § Computer telephony integration.
Call Management
Provides call statistics for all calls to 3-1-1 call center such as:
§ Total number of calls § Calls answered § Calls not answered § Length of time to answer call § Call duration
Measures the performance of customer service representatives. Determines staff size and shifts based on call statistics.
Components
Customer Relationship Management
§ Software application used to efficiently handle information and service requests. § Routes service requests to appropriate department. § Tracks and manages service requests through completion. § Provides reports to determine most frequent service and information requests. § Provides tracking number to citizens to follow up on service request.
San Antonio’s 3-1-1
§ Nationally recognized 3-1-1 system in operation since 2000. § Emphasis on excellent customer service. § Performance measure driven for both customer service representatives and departments handling requests. § Majority of service requests are from four major departments:
· Environmental Services · Public Works · Animal Control · Code Compliance
San Antonio’ 3-1-1
Statistics
$1.6 million operation budget 1.1 million calls to 3-1-1 38 customer service representatives 70% informational calls 30% service requests 94% of calls answered; 6% of calls are not answered Average talk time per call is two minutes
Recommendations
§ City Council and City Manager support § Department cooperation § Redeployment of existing resources § Keep 9-1-1 call takers separate from 3-1-1 § Provide extensive training to customer service representatives prior to implementation § Establish performance standards early. § Phase in advertising of new 3-1-1 system.
Cities with 3-1-1 in United States
San Francisco, San Jose Riverside, Los Angeles, California. Reno, Las Vegas, Nevada. Denver, Colorado. Albuquerque, New Mexico. Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, Texas. New Orleans, Mobile, Alabama. Orange County, Miami-Dade, Florida. Columbia, Georgia.
External City Survey
Surveyed 15 cities with current 3-1-1 systems
Population Call volume Staff size Hours of operation Yearly costs Charge to residents Software used
Most Frequent Requests
Garbage Pick-Up Code Violations Animal Control Abandoned Vehicles Parking Issues Potholes Graffiti Removal Parks & Recreation Traffic Signals
External City Survey
City Population Call Volume Staff Costs Akron, OH 210,795 160,000 14 711,000 Chattanooga, TN 154,762 193,000 10 500,000 Riverside City, CA 290,086 167,000 10 700,000 Hampton, VA 145,579 273,000 10 420,000 Reno, NV 203,550 50,000 4 350,000
City of Laredo 3-1-1 Proposal Call center hours of operation
7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (16 hours a day) Monday through Sunday (7 days per weeks) Expected call volume at 100% = 200,000 per year
Performance standards
80% of calls or better answered within 30 seconds. Average talk time 2 minutes.
What’s Needed?
Center Staffing Software, Cc-Modeler Professional, Erlang C model.
Input:
200,000 calls per year 7:00 a.m to 11:00 p.m.; Monday to Sunday 80% of incoming calls answered within 30 seconds 3 minutes average processing time per call Call volume per hour based on historical data from non-emergency service number Output: 7 CSR’s required per day 8 truck lines required to not get a busy signal
Timeline
Phase I: October 1, 2007 – March 31, 2008 Phase II: April 1, 2008 – September 30, 2008 Phase III: October 1, 2008
Projected FY 07-08 Costs
Component Non Recurring Cost Recurring Cost Personnel $0 $237,347 Network $4,245 $18,840 Hardware $53,500 $7,500 Software $16,000 $27,500 Advertising $15,000 $5,000 Miscellaneous $6,500 $25,750 Total $95,245 $321,937
FY07-08 General Fund Impact
Existing FTE transfers Customer Service Coordinator position to 3-1-1 Supervisor Clerk II to CSR
Enterprise and special revenue fund department administrative use fee Utilities, Solid Waste, Environmental Services, Community Development, etc. 321,937 Total Budget Less $37,824 for Supervisor transfer Less $29,400 for CSR transfer Less $193,162 for Administrative Free Transfers Equals $61,551 General Fund Budget for FY07-08
Final Steps
PUC application Location Budget Plan Implement
Commissioner Garza gave a brief overview of the history of the 3-1-1. He made note that the permit has been submitted and should be approved by the Public Utilities Commission within the month. He expressed his satisfaction with working hand in hand with the City of Laredo.
B. Presentation on the “Amerisafe-America Segura” campaign that promotes an attitude of safety at the U.S. border with Mexico, by Mr. Al Gamez, Marketing Director for SafeMex, a travel assistance service.
Promotional Campaign
Campaign Name : Safe-Borders Promotion Brand : Amiersafe.us Product Brand : SafeMex Term of Campaign : July – December 2007
Campaign
Objectives: Operate a multi-media campaign based on Print with support of all types of media including Radio, TX and Websites with general actions of Promotion and Public Relations with the final objective being to bring Tourism to Laredo and regain the Image deterioration caused by the delinquency of the northern Mexico region and border.
Objectives
Regain the security Image in destinations of the campaign. Promote Tourism services (Promotion) Increase actual hotel occupancy Spread a new Image of the northern region of Mexico and south of Texas to capture new Tourism business. Gain support from destinations within the route to obtain a Co-Op Campaign Obtain the cooperation of Authorities and media for a Security campaign.
News:
The principle novelty of the campaign consists on the fact that travelers that use the route are offered Assistance services to obtain the perception of personal security and effectively increase the travelers security conditions in all their stay and give them also amenities, services, and discounts.
Benefits:
The campaign spreads new elements of security in the border and in the international trip (Texas-Mexico) and invites the travel to the destinations of the promotion. The reader responds to the free motivational offers and greater security in his trip and can do it via electronic or telephone basis. The idea for the success of the campaign is to motivate new markers, and they travel secure in terms of legal, medical, and roadside assistance and not just auto insurance.
Principle Offer:
The base of the Offer is: The traveler will be able to join a “Travel Club” for free* that will give him coverage of Assistance in case of auto break down, accidents, medical and legal emergency services throughout their trip in Mexico and also receive discounts and tourist support during their stay in Mexico.
Services for the Tourist!
Medical Assistance Legal Assistance Roadside Assistance Tourism Assistance
Procedure
§ Response to the publicity via telephone or internet § The possible trip is registered without a charge § Data is collected and dates followed up § Travelers are explained the free services, the activation fee and the operations effecting the policy and support services § The policy is validated upon exiting the US § The traveler begins to enjoy the gratuity and discounts
Other activities of the participating Destinations
§ Diverse formats of communication so the traveler feels secure (Maps, 800 #, road squad cars, custom modules, etc.) § Security Spots, request support from mass media to be part of the campaign, PR activities and maintenance of good information sites. § Communication Hot Spots along the route
Support Activities
Invite the most important media of the destinations in the promotion so they form part of the support campaign for the Tourism promotion that operates on both sides, for example: Monterrey – Houston providing support to press releases and verifying sensible information.
Members of the Campaign
Tourism promotion organizations Events and Fairs that depend on Tourism Hotel, Restaurants, and Tourism services associations Transport Companies and Tourism services Key association proposal with Forum 2007
Campaign
Amerisafe is a bi-national multi-media goodwill campaign that promotes Safety and Security at Texas Borders with Mexico and named “Safe Borders – Fronteras Seguras”. The campaign initially targets a 450 miles radius from the Laredo- Mexico borders where there exists the greatest propensity of land travel and entry to Mexico via Laredo. The campaign also targets a 600 mile radius from the Mexico border where there exists the greatest propensity of land travel from Mexico to Laredo and entry to the U. S.
Objective
The objective of the campaign is to generate tourism to Laredo enhancing the perception of Safety and Security. To regain the deteriorated image caused by the violence of the region, which has caused the U. S. State Department to issue Mexico Travel Advisory Alerts, which has caused land tourism through the Border to plummet 22% in a short period of time.
Facts
Although the objective of the campaign is to generage tourism to Laredo we know the majority is pass through traffic into Mexico. The Texas border cities like Laredo, the Gateway to Mexico; Eagle Pass, McAllen etc. lask the attractiveness as tourist destination cities. What was once charming and fun to visit the Mexico Border for Bargain shopping has been replaced with fear and high alert by sensationalized negative media releases responding to the violent isolated events at the Border areas. The marketing result is that region’s commerce and tourism is declining. It is time for positive media stating “Good news is also News”. Instead of focusing on the negative side, the campaign is addressing actual Number One concern of all travelers, which is Safety/Security.
Promotion and Product Novelty
The travelers will respond to the “Safe Borders” advertisements and promotions. The call to action is to dial an 800 number or go directly on-line and automatically be enrolled in an Assistance Safety Emergency Plan. The campaign promotes an Assistance Travel Plan for U S. Travelers and must not be mistaken or compared with a travel insurance or auto insurance policy. The Assistance Plan is guaranteed and underwritten by a recognized U S. insurance company and assistance services are rendered in Mexico under Safemex S. A. In the event of an emergency in Mexico, the US traveler will count immediately with “LOCAL” and professional service providers who respond within 30 minutes in aid of the traveler and includes Legal, Medical, Roadside and Tourism Assistance during the emergency event, and not after the event, like all the insurance policies do.
Border Benefits
The Assistance Policy will be activated upon arrival in Laredo BEFORE entering Mexico. Travelers will be advised to allow 1-2 extra days at Laredo to get all their papers in order. Because we will know 1-4 months in advance before the traveler arrives at the Border city, travelers will receive Calendars of Events that coincide with their travel plans so that they can schedule extra days to stop, rent hotel rooms, shop, dine, attend concerts at Laredo before entering Mexico AND/OR returning from Mexico. All travelers will be encouraged to gas up and do maintenance on their autos at Laredo, invited for 2 x 1 breakfast, offered discounts and will know ahead of the time the merchants at Laredo that import Mexican goods without having to shop in Mexico. Basically Laredo has 2 chances to benefit from the Safe Border campaign (Coming and going) Further, Laredo will be able to monitor the campaign in real time using the Amerisafe software to track the direct response stats and forecast of future travelers that registered and received the Assistance Policy just for responding and identifying the “safe border” campaign.\
Texas Benefits
Not only does Laredo stand to benefit the most from the tourism traffic generated by the Co-Op funds from Mexico and the Mexican Border States but the State of Texas will benefit as well because all the land tourism traffic is from Texas and the out of the state Tourism will need to enter and travel the State to get to the Border. Therefore the Texas Co-Op funds will effectively target the Mexico markets to drive tourism and commerce from Mexico to the Texas Border cities. Amerisafe will deploy a public relations and press campaign inviting journalists and editors to visit Laredo and enjoy all what Laredo has to offer to the Mexican tourist.
Mexico Co-Op
Because the Country of Mexico understands the actual Border situation and sees great benefits for its Destination cities along the route from the US Border, the Mexico Tourism board has agreed to (1) join the Safe Borders campaign and (2) agree to co-op funds with the seven Mexican states most affected and hurt by the 22% drop in land tourism and (3) deploy a full media campaign promoting “land” Tourism among both countries border.
Endorsement support Sponsor
The Amerisafe “Safe Borders – Fronteras Seguras” has the endorsement of the Mexico Tourism Board and the MTB has organized the 7 Mexico states most affected and most to benefit by the campaign. The 7 Mexico states will co-op funds with the MTB for the campaign/promotions in key US and Texas cities to attract land tourism using the Texas border cities to enter into Mexico.
Texas Support
We
request the City of Laredo to endorse the “Safe
Borders – Fronteras Seguras” campaign, to
become a sponsor, and participate with Co-Op funds with the Mexico Tourism
Board. The Laredo “Gateway to Mexico” involvement will send a direct security
message to the Mexico states; it will create Goodwill along the border; it will
create positive media coverage; it will give editors Good News to report; it
will help to spread a Positive Image along the Border, but
most important will deliver a short term perception of
Security which is on the mind of the traveler as he plans his visit
to the Texas Border. Time is of the essence and in some ways, we are operating in a crisis mode at the Texas Border and request a fast track decision and respectfully request a communiqué from Laredo so we may show Mexico and the Seven states that will demonstrate to the Mexican officials Laredo is on board.
Motion to instruct the City Manager to consider the report and return to Council with recommendations.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya 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 MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION
Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and convene as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Consideration for approval to award a construction contract to the lowest bidder ALC Construction, LLC., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $104,000.00 for the Re-Roofing Project at the Jose Flores Apartments (18 Duplexes Complex). Funding is available in the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Garza For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. RECESS AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation and convene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. 2007-RT-001 Authorizing the City of Laredo to file an application with the Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration, United States of America, in the amount of $3,658,679.00 for Fiscal Year 2006- 2007 and authorizing the City Manager to execute all related documents.
Motion to approve 2007-RT-001.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. 2007-RT-002 Authorizing the City Manager to apply for Federal Public Transportation funds in the amount of $2,220,000.00 with the Federal Transit Administration, Department of Transportation which is authorized to distribute federal funds for transit capital under the bus and bus facilities discretionary program grants (Section 5309).
Motion to approve 2007-RT-002.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. 2007-RT-003 Authorizing the City Manager to apply for public transportation funds in the amount of $1,390,000.00 with the Texas Department of Transportation which is authorized to apply for Federal funds for transit capital under the bus and bus facilities discretionary program grants (Section 5309).
Motion to approve 2007-RT-003.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
39. Consideration to award supply contracts (FY07-088) to the low bidders, Hollon Oil Company, Weslaco, Texas in the estimated amount of $58,625.04, Lubrication Engineers, Inc., Fort Weslaco, Texas, in the estimated amount of $43,716.00, Arguindegui Oil Company, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $7,154.00 and Oil Patch Petroleum, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $2,088.00 for the purchase of engine oil and lubricants for the El Metro automotive fleet. The bid pricing will be for a one (1) year, with a one (1) year option and all items will be purchased on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the El Metro Operations Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVII. RECESS AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT AND RECONVENE AND ADJOURN AS THE CITY OF LAREDO
Motion to recess as the Laredo Mass Transit and reconvene and adjourn as the City of Laredo.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Chavez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVIII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Cm. Amaya Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
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