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CITY OF LAREDO CITY COUNCIL MEETING M2007-R-22 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1110 HOUSTON STREET LAREDO, TEXAS 78040 NOVEMBER 19, 2007 5:30 P.M.
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present, Mayor Raul 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, Mayor Pro Tem, District VI Juan Chavez Council Member, District VII Juan Ramirez, Council Member, District VIII Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary Carlos Villarreal, City Manager Cynthia Collazo, Deputy City Manager Horacio De Leon, Assistant City Manager Jesus Olivares, Assistant City Manager Raul Casso, City Attorney
IV. MINUTES
Approval of the minutes of July 2, 2007, October 30, 2007 and November 5, 2007.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Recognitions Recognition of Gerardo “Jerry” Piña of the Environmental Services Department on his selection as the November employee of the month.
Riazul Mia, Environmental Services Director, spoke of what an honor it is to have Gerardo “Jerry” Pina as an employee for the Environmental Services Department.
The Mayor and City Council presented Gerardo “Jerry” Pina of the Environmental Services Department a City Manager’s Certificate of Recognition on his selection as the November employee of the month.
Communiqués
Mayor Salinas announced that the City of Laredo was fortunate to have two great visitors that serve at the United States Capitol in Washington, D. C. including Kay Bailey Hutchison, United States Senator; and Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the House for the United States Congress. He noted that he met with both visitors and stressed the importance of the different alternatives to the “wall”. He continued to say that he has received over 1,000 letters of hate mail from throughout the United States which threatened him and his family for his conversation on the Glen Beck show. He reassured everyone that the City of Laredo is a great City and he will always stand tall for the City of Laredo.
Cm. Garza congratulated high school football teams in South Laredo especially United South High School. He also congratulated Nixon High School for going to the play-offs. He informed the viewing public that Cynthia Espinoza represented him at an event at Cigarroa Recreation Center where several sponsors presented sixteen food baskets with turkeys to less fortunate families. He advised that the program is called “adopt a family” program which provides food for the family for one year. He continued to discuss where 350 elderly individuals from various daycares were presented food, gifts, and games on behalf of Judge Veliz, Mayor Salinas, Council Member Chavez, and the Laredo Fire Fighter’s Association. He wished all the families a Happy Thanksgiving.
Cm. Garcia mentioned that he had the opportunity to meet with the new Mayor of Nuevo Laredo prior to the election and he looks forward to working with the officials from Nuevo Laredo. He thanked HEB for the Feast of Sharing and for assisting him with a 100 turkey drive in his district. He said that he also distributed 25 food baskets assembled by the Laredo Commission for Women in the Laredo Independent School District areas. Finally, he thanked all the City of Laredo employees that assisted with the Lou Gerick’s Disease Walk.
He congratulated the new Mayor of Nuevo Laredo. He said that the new Mayor, Mr. Barrios, is very sincere about his willingness to cooperate with the City of Laredo.
Cm. Amaya said that he along with the District IV Special Project Committee members, Laredo Police Department, and the Laredo Fire Department will be holding their turkey give-aways to over two hundred of the less fortunate families. He added that in the seven years as Council Member he has been able to provide 1,200 families turkeys for Thanksgiving.
Cm. Rendon congratulated John Ofilia, Public Works Director, and his staff for expediting their work on Jacaman Road. He mentioned a dinner/dance where 1,200 individuals will go to the Casa Blanca Ball Room to enjoy the Thanksgiving Celebration. He advised that he had read a proclamation in the Mayors honor to fight the hunger and homeless and he said that he was moved because he saw so many individuals stepping up to help the homeless.
Cm. Belmares thanked HEB for everything that they have done for the people of Laredo. He also congratulated the local football teams for their year of performance. He also congratulated the four United High School marching bands for their award winning presentation during half time. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
Cm. Chavez gave a brief update on the Bristol Road and Railroad Bridge projects in his district.
Cm. Ramirez reminded everyone to pray for the men and women serving in the armed forces across the world. He invited everyone to attend the “Tree Lighting Ceremony” at the Civic Center.
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.
Susan Ghertner, Environmental Affairs Associate from HEB, gave a short power point presentation on the efforts that HEB is taking to be environmentally friendly. She applauded the Council’s recent decision of going “plastic free” and introduced a new bag that HEB will be offering interested shoppers who would like to go plastic free.
Maria Eugenia Guerra, Publisher of Laredos, expressed her dissatisfaction of a proposed donation by the GEO Group. She encouraged City Council to vote against accepting the $250,000.00 donation by the GEO.
Ron Rodriguez, Attorney at Law, was representing two families that have suffered the death of a loved one at the hands of the GEO Group. He encouraged City Council to reject the donation from the GEO Group noting that it would be shameful for them to encourage an establishment like theirs to be built in the City of Laredo.
Dr. Jim Earhart thanked City Council for the efforts that have come forth concerning the plastic bags.
Remy Salinas spoke against accepting the $250,000.00 donation from the GEO Group. He also spoke about a service plan that is attached to the annexation items on the agenda. He also encouraged City Council to postpone the annexations on the agenda until after the park dedication ordinance workshop is held.
Faviola Flores, Attorney at Law, asked Council to continue their positive trend in the City and deny acceptance of the $250,000 donation from the GEO Group.
Ricardo Soliz spoke against accepting money from the GEO Group.
VI. APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
A. Reaffirming the appointment of Sandra Rocha-Taylor, representing the Avenida San Bernardo Assoc. and the Pan American Courts Hotel, to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee as sponsored by Council Member Juan Chavez, District VII.
Motion to approve.
Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 B. Reaffirming the appointment of Clema Owen, representing the Embassy Suites, to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee as sponsored by Council Member Juan Ramirez, District VII.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 C. Reaffirming the appointment of Lisa Morales, representing the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association, to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee sponsored by Council Member Hector Garcia, District II.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0 D. Reaffirming the appointment of Guillermo “Memo” Treviño, representing the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee sponsored by Council Member Mike Garza, District I.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. A. Request by Council Member Mike Garza
1. Status report on the Municipal Golf Course Project and related funding, with possible action.
Miguel Pescador, Parks & Recreation, confirmed that the City of Laredo had a range from $2,250,000 to $5,450,000 during the feasibility study for the golf course. The feasibility study indicated that there is a market for a golf course.
Cm. Garza expressed his concerns regarding the golf course. He said that the golf project was earmarked $5.6 million 2009 project which was accelerated. He noted that the location that is being discussed is a far distance from the City of Laredo; therefore, he questioned what kind of improvements necessary to get to the site.
Tomas Rodriquez, Jr., Utilities Director, provided a comprehensive report on additional costs that need to be considered for the proposed golf course. He recommended for the City to lease the water rights of 339 acres because 500 acre feet would be provided by the owner of the golf course. The cost of that would be $6 an acre foot which computes to $20,340. In addition to the water rights the Council needs to consider a system that will suspend solids from the Rio Grande for irrigation and that would be $1.6 million dollars. He mentioned the extension of the water line to Santa Isabel Creek which would cost an estimated $528,000. Finally, the City would need to pump the raw sewerage to Laredo Columbia which would cost an additional $1.1 million dollars. He further mentioned that the original contract reads that the developer will cover some of the above mentioned costs.
Cm. Garza said that the new proposal should be very specific. He said that they should include the mileage parameters in the proposal indicating the true distance so all costs can be considered. He said that the City of Laredo should also approach Webb County for assistance in the project.
Gary Jacobs, representing families of interested investors in golf course, said that the golf course is a quality of life vision for the Council Members to embrace. He encouraged City Council to instruct the City Manager to negotiate with the family who won the bid submitted by the City. He added that the group of investors (seventeen individuals) have complied to all of the requests and are anxious to see the project to fruition. He went on to say that the golf course will pay for itself by attracting the retiring generation and it will allow the City of Laredo to compete with other cities throughout the United States.
Cm. Garza asked Gary Jacobs what the total cost would be for their proposed golf site.
Gary Jacobs answered that the City of Laredo has had several meetings with the interested party and the agreed price included the donation of one million dollars in cash, the land donation of 300 acres, and $5.5 million dollars from the City of Laredo. He spoke against working with any other entity at this moment.
Cm. Garza said that it would behoove the City to include the County in the golf course negotiations because they could save the City of Laredo a lot of money that could be utilized for more important issues.
Gary Jacobs informed City Council that if they approve the motion that he would not submit a proposal and the City of Laredo will forgo the largest single gift in the history of Laredo.
Motion to instruct the City Manager to initiate a new Request for Proposals on the Municipal Golf Course Project. The proposal should be cost specific regarding all issues including water rights, irrigation costs, extension of water lines, and the cost to pump the raw sewerage.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Chavez For: 3 Against: 5 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garza Cm. Landeck Cm. Garcia Cm. Amaya Cm. Chavez Cm. Rendon Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Cm. Ramirez
Motion to proceed with the existing project on the Municipal Golf Course.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Landeck For: 5 Against: 3 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garcia Cm. Garza Cm. Landeck Cm. Chavez Cm. Amaya Cm. Ramirez Cm. Rendon Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares
2. Discussion on the item requested by L.I.S.D. Board of Trustees related to Zapata Hwy., discussed at the November 5th Council Meeting.
Cm. Garza expressed his concerns regarding the safety of pedestrians crossing the Zapata Highway.
Carlos Rodriguez and Danny McGee from Texas Department of Transportation, discussed several alternatives for pedestrians crossing the Zapata Hiway. He informed Council that he has been working with law enforcers in controlling the speed limit and jaywalking. He continued to say that TxDOT has a temporary 30 mph zone in the said location. He said that the second avenue that they are considering is education. He said that they have met with L.I.S.D. school officials regarding the education perspective. Finally, the third alternative is engineering. The Pedestrian bridge is not used effectively. After researching the item it was reported pedestrians refuse to use pedestrian walkways. He said the problem with the walkways is they make you go up and then straight horizontally. The cost of the walkway is over a million dollars without the right-of-way.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, explained that if there is a barrier then the pedestrian walkway is used; however, if pedestrians have the opportunity to cross with no barrier then they will not use the walkway.
Cm. Garza advised that officials need to look at all the options for creating a safer crossing for pedestrians. He noted that he has met with Mr. Medina and he suggested lowering the speed limit or installing flashers in the area.
Danny McGee explained that TxDOT has installed an additional piece of raised median just south of Zacatecas because that is where the young man was recently hit by a car.
Cm. Garza explained that the other problem is enforcement. Our police officers need to strictly enforce the speed limit in that area. He asked TxDOT to submit several alternatives for the site.
3. Discussion with possible action on using the old Mercy Building for assisted housing.
Cm. Garza stated that using the old Mercy Building for assisted housing is a great opportunity for the City of Laredo because they can obtain loans.
Mayor Salinas said that there is a long waiting list for housing. He noted that the City could contact the local legislators and encourage them to assist the City of Laredo.
Cm. Garcia added that the City of Laredo could host the Veteran’s Clinic at the location.
Cm. Chavez shared that he had requested information from the Community Development Director, Ronnie Acosta.
Ronnie Acosta, Community Development, reported that she provided statistics regarding the elderly in the community. She said that the elderly make up 12% of all renters in Webb County and of those 16% are low income. Also 68% are faced with housing problems.
Motion to proceed with the feasibility study and the purchase of the old Mercy Regional Medical Building for assisted housing.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Request by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck
1. Discussion with possible action regarding amendments and possible additions to the redemption machines “maquinitas” or 8-liners ordinance, with all possible changes regarding facilities, operation, fees and any other related issues. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Juan Chavez)
Cm. Landeck said that during the last meeting several Council Members brought up the problem with the maquinitas. He said that it is coming clear to him that the City is dealing with an issue that is destroying families in the community. He noted that the City of Laredo is losing time in dealing with the maquinitas which will allow additional families to be destroyed. He said that he feels uncomfortable ignoring the community problem.
Motion to freeze the issuance of license to new or existing maquinita businesses until the City Council can attend a workshop regarding the businesses.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second: Mayor pro Tempore Belmares
Second was withdrawn.
Raul Casso, City Attorney, said that temporary moratoriums are to address specific problems. The harm that the maquinitas are doing will continue to exist during a moratorium by virtue of the permits that are currently in existence. The permits that would be denied under the moratorium would not impact the community because the problem will continue to happen; hence, the purpose of protecting the public’s health and safety is questionable. A moratorium is not proper for this problem. He encouraged City Council to focus on the workshop where the City of Laredo can initiate a comprehensive plan that includes enforcement.
Cm. Garcia stressed the importance of tough enforcement on existing businesses.
Cm. Landeck continued to stress that the community is suffering from the maquinita businesses and he is very disappointed that the answer is that the City has no legal means to protect this community from further damage.
Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares explained that the City of Laredo is a HomeRule City and they have latitude as to what they can and cannot say regarding issues in the community.
Motion to table the item until the scheduled workshop.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion with possible action in order to eliminate from the contract with Poznecki and Camarillo, Inc., the condition not allowing Poznecki et. al., to meet with representatives of the third site i.e. Project 45 or the other DD Hachar Foundation site, and further to meet with interested City Councilmen and any other person or group that City Council may deem necessary for better understanding and possible clarifications related to the selection/recommendation of a site for Bridge 5 as well as related issues.
Cm. Landeck noted that he wanted to remind City Council and the public that all interested parties were all in agreement to build a commercial bridge because Laredo has no need for a non-commercial bridge. He expressed his concerns regarding the bridge. He said that the decision is not reflected in the Poznecki reports. They are talking about relieving Bridge I & II from non-commercial traffic and connecting to the other side of Nuevo Laredo to a resort center. He said that he feels that one of the problems that the City is having with this report is that neither he or other Council Members and Commissioners have any possibility to discuss issues with Poznecki and to share with them thoughts. He further stated that it would be in the interests of everyone to remove the communication restriction with Poznecki. He suggested creating a workshop with Poznecki to exchange ideas and express concerns.
Motion to remove the restriction and work closely with Poznecki Company.
Moved: Cm. Landeck Second:
No second – motion dies.
C. Request by Council Member Johnny Rendon
1. Presentation and possible action on the City of Laredo contracting with Laredo Community College for specific economic development services.
Blas Casteneda, Chief Officer for External Affairs at Laredo Community College, gave the following presentation.
Laredo Community College Economic Development Center
Contents
LCC and Economic Development EDC Mission & Vision Current State of Things Strategies Proposed
Connecting Education to the Global Economy
“People must be educated about modern economy and global competition and drawn into the process of better preparing for it” Michael Porter, Bishop William
Lawrence University Professor, Harvard Business School
Economic Development at a glance Business Attraction Business Retention & Expansion Diverse Competitive Workforce
Mission Statement
To develop, in conjunction with city and county leadership, workforce boards, economic development organizations, the private section, labor and community groups, and other stakeholders; innovative solutions in identified strategic priority areas for growth and development.
Vision
To advance Laredo and South Texas economic prosperity through high quality education and services focusing on continuous workforce improvement, technology deployment, and business development.
Working towards a brighter future now
What are the current drivers of our local economy? How much potential do we have? How do we better utilize our strengths? Where do we see ourselves in 20 years from now? Which region (s) should Laredo seek to integrate with? (If Laredo is interested in the strategy)
Motion to instruct the City Manager to work out a contractual agreement with the Laredo Community College for specific economic development services.
Moved: Cm. Rendon Second: Cm. Chavez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, stressed the importance of being specific about the type of service that will be offered by the Laredo Community College. He noted that it should include the dates of service and the amount of money that should be set forth in said fashion. He noted that he would not want to be looking at an overall figure that is not budgeted.
2. Status report on the storm drainage project in Belmont Plaza Subdivision at Sage Drive and Esperanza Drive.
Riazul Mia, Environmental Services Director, said that this project was awarded on October 1, 2007. The consultant has 90 days and they have completed their survey by gathering the data from TxDOT and Utilities. The design is 20% complete and the City of Laredo should receive the final plan by the end of January 2008 which will allow the City to initiate a bid.
3. Discussion with possible action to provide funding for speed humps on Chaparral Street between Alabama Avenue and Gallagher.
Roberto Murillo, Traffic Director, indicated that the records show that for Chaparral there was a motion to place four speed humps; however, the City of Laredo staff has not obtained the required signatures that are required to proceed. He said that Alabama needs three speed humps at a total cost of $5,400. Gallagher needs three speed humps.
Motion to use the Discretionary Funds of District V for the speed humps on Alabama and Gallagher.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Status report on the dome for the basketball court in Eistetter Park.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported that the City of Laredo has a contract for the design and the contractor has been given a notice to proceed. The project should be complete in ten weeks.
D. Request by Council Member Juan Ramirez
1. Status report on the Plaza Theater, with possible action.
Ronnie Acosta, Community Development Director, gave a comprehensive report on the Plaza Theater noting that the city of Laredo purchased the facility with CDBG funds in 1999. She further explained that the facility has a new roof, petitions have been removed as well as asbestos. The stressed that the effort of the City is to preserve the integrity of the structure. She added that the total cost to renovate the building is $6.1 million dollars. She informed City Council that the Ad-Hoc that was created to discuss issues of the Plaza Theater was complete because they were used to consider the feasibility study.
Motion to instruct the City Manager to initiate a Request for Proposals for the Plaza Theater to see if a private investor will show interested in renovating the building.
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion with possible action on the upcoming expiration date of the contract with First Transit.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, reported that he has not seen the contract from First Transit. He advised that there had been some miscommunication related to the naming of the manager but as a company and as a whole they have been doing a good job operating the transit system. He noted that there is nothing that precludes him from bringing back a recommendation to go with first Transit at the end of January.
Cm. Garcia said that he was concerned about some of the issues that the City Manager mentioned but he is currently pleased with the current administration.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, noted that he would be in a position to make a recommendation to City Council regarding First Transit based on all the scenarios that have been presented to City Council. He added that the company has the expertise to create a better system. He informed City Council that he would be placing the item back on the agenda.
3. Discussion with possible action on placing a statue between Santa Ursula Avenue and San Dario Avenue on Matamoros Street on the east side of the Laredo National Bank.
Cm. Ramirez said that he brought the item to City Council because he had discussed the item four years ago. Huntsville placed a statue of Sam Houston and that has been an attraction to that City – they create an attraction.
Cm. Garza suggested creation of an ad-hoc committee.
Cm. Garcia expressed his dissatisfaction of placing a statue between Santa Ursula Avenue and Dan Dario Avenue.
Cm. Ramirez advised that is would assist with the tourist dollars.
Mayor Salinas recommended reaching out to the private sector to obtain donations for the statue. He further stated that he would review the item and consider creation of an ad hoc committee.
4. Discussion with possible action on placing sidewalks in District VIII at the following locations:
1. 1700 block of San Jorge Avenue (east side) 2. 1800 block of San Jorge Avenue (east side) 3. 2500 block of Salinas Avenue (west side) 4. 2500 block of Juarez Avenue (west side) 5. 2500 block of Davis Avenue (west side) 6. 2600 block of Main Avenue (west side) 7. 1800 block of Constantinople Street (north side)
Motion to use the discretionary fund of District VIII for placing sidewalks in District VIII at the following locations:
1. 1700 block of San Jorge Avenue (east side) 2. 1800 block of San Jorge Avenue (east side) 3. 2500 block of Salinas Avenue (west side) 4. 2500 block of Juarez Avenue (west side) 5. 2500 block of Davis Avenue (west side) 6. 2600 block of Main Avenue (west side) 7. 1800 block of Constantinople Street (north side)
Moved: Cm. Ramirez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Article II, Section 2-16, “Departments of the City,” of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo, Texas, by creating, consolidating and eliminating departments; and providing for severability and an effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce with changes discussed including separating the Environmental Services and Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.
Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares recommended that City Council should postpone the creation of and Economic Development department because of the contractual agreement discussion with Laredo Community College.
Cm. Landeck said that he was not invited to the discussion regarding the structural changes. He said that the last decision that the City Council made was to accept the recommendations of the Water’s Group Corporation with the exception of the Police Department. He said that what he would expect to see today is the chart of the Water’s Corporation put on the table because there are many changes that have been done to the chart that is being presented. He questioned the structure that was being provided at the current meeting.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, explained that according to the City Charter the Tax Department and the Planning and Zoning Department must remain as a stand alone department. He said that he has been requested of evening out the departments as far as responsibilities. He noted that he has met with different Council Members for recommendation.
Cm. Landeck expressed that he does not feel that the City Manager is handing the reorganization of the City Council properly. He stressed that the discussion needs to be brought before the public. He stressed that all comments need to be brought before the public.
Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, said that it has been very hard for him because there has been so many recommendations made that eventually the City of Laredo has to operate. He said that is was difficult for him to have a reorganization with the instructions that there will be an organization but no people should be affected by salary. He said that it is quiet hard to have a reorganization in that vein. Regardless of what staff does the organization cannot conflict with the City Charter. He stressed that he is ready to comply with whatever City Council wishes.
Cm. Landeck said that staff should be careful with following City Charter procedures. The City Charter states that the organization should be done by the City Council and the positioning of the staff should be done by City Manager.
City Manager, Carlos Villarreal, addressed Council and agreed to bring back what was originally voted on according to the motion. Staff can make changes according to what they feel is necessary as per the City Charter. Staff can then return to City Council with another organizational chart indicating changes that balance the different department. Thirdly, staff could return to City Council for the final approval.
Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares said that he would return to City Council with an item to eliminate the Economic Development Department.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Landeck For: 4 Against: 4 Abstain: 0 Cm. Garza Cm. Garcia Cm. Landeck Cm. Rendon Cm. Amaya Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Cm. Chavez Cm. Ramirez
Mayor Salinas voted in favor for tie breaker.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
3. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Chapter 2 Administration Article VI Investment Policy of the Code of Ordinances in order to: 1. Add new Section 2.257 Authorizing Investment Advisors; and 2. Add new Section 2.270 Investment Strategy by Fund Type; 3. Deleting part of renumbered Section 2.258 Authorized Investments, to delete thereform (d) Bankers Notes and (e) Commercial Paper; and 4. Amending and modifying the other sections of Article IV in order to make the article comply with Chapter 2256 of the Government Code known as the Public-Investment Act; and providing for an effective date.
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 and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council 4. Public hearing and introductory ordinance providing for the taxation of goods-in-transit pursuant to Section 11.253 (j) of the Texas Property Tax Code. Goods-in-transit are exempt from taxation, unless the taxing unit provides for the taxation prior to January 1st of the tax year in which the tax is proposed. The goods-in-transit shall remain subject to taxation until this action is rescinded or repealed.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and reject.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for an amusement redemption machine establishment on Lots 2A and 2B, Block 1, Bartlett Apartments Subdivision at Jacaman Ranch, located at 6508 N. Bartlett Avenue. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit. District V
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mario Santos requested an amusement machine business for 175 machines, they are moving from another building from McPherson to Bartlett Ave.
Motion to close the public hearing and table until discussion at a workshop.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Landeck For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing the Conditional Use Permit for a birthing clinic on Lots 4, 9, and 10, Block 941, Western Division, located at 3712 Santa Ursula Avenue. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit. District VII
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Chavez advised that this area is covered with asphalt. He suggested donating the required trees and scrubs to the Parks & Recreation Department.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Landeck For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Chavez
7. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances, Chapter 17 Library, Article 1, in General, Section “Fines and Fees for Library Services”, allowing for the addition of a new fee associated with the Laredo Public Library Main Branch becoming a Passport Acceptance Facility; Providing for publication and effective date. Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input. Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Landeck For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0 Cm. Chavez
Ordinance Introduction: City Council except for Council Member Chavez Cm. Garza and Cm. Amaya were not present.
8. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 903.2.7 of the International Building Code [Adopted as the Building Code of the City under Section 7-1 of Chapter 7 of the Code of Ordinances] in order to provide for deletion of requirement of an automatic sprinkler system for a four (4) Dwelling Unit; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
9. Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending Section 108.3 of the International Building Code [Adopted as the Building Code of the City under Section 7 Chapter 7 of the Code of Ordinances] in order to:
1. Coret a printing error; and 2. Reduce the building permit valuation for utility buildings from $20.40 to $11.00; and providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Garcia For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
10. Amending Chapter 12 [Fire Prevention and Protection] of the Code of Ordinances in the following respects:
1. Amending Section 903.27 of the International Fire Code [Adopted as the Fire Code of the City under Section 12-2 of Chapter 12 of the Code of Ordinances] in order to provide for deletion of the requirement of the requirement of an automatic sprinkler system for a four dwelling unit: 2. Deletion of Section 12-5 [Fire Prevention Code] 3. Deleting Section 12-6 [Life Safety Code 101] and providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
11. Second (2nd) public hearing for the voluntary annexation of eleven (11) tracts of land:
Tract 1: Ed-Sal Tract – 4.02 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 2: RRTAIT Tract– 84.77 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 3: Killam Charco Tract – 88.56 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 4: Killam Quiote Tract – 194.08 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Cm. Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 5: AFW Investments II Tract – 105.19 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 6: H-5 Tract – 59.94 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 7: A.R. and Alicia Sanchez Tract – 10.85 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 8: 4V Holdings Tract – 172.13 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 9: South Webb County Tract – 1330.83 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 10: Tanquecitos South Acres Tract – 21.60 acres, more or less;
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rerndon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Tract 11: Daughters of Mary Help Tract – 30.00 acres, more or less); for a total of 2,101.97 acres, more or less, as described in the attached tract summaries, as required by Section 43.063 of the Texas Local Government Code.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
12. Amending the lease between the City of Laredo & Webb County of Lots 9 & 10, Block 320, Eastern Division, a copy of which amendment is attached as Exhibit A, in which the changes are as follows:
1. Providing for contribution from the City of $300,000.00 towards the cost of constructing the community center for the elderly on the leased premises; 2. Adding a tract of 5,069.85 sq. ft., out of Lexington Avenue between Stewart Street and Reynolds Street, described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibit 3 of Exhibit A and 3. Adding a tract of land of 7,717.28 sq. ft., out of the north half of Lexington Avenue fronting Stewart Street described by metes and bounds and survey attached as Exhibit A; and providing for effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
X. FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES
Motion to waive the Final Readings of Ordinances # 2007-O-232, # 2007-O-233, #2007-O- 234, # 2007-O-235, # 2007-O-236, # 2007-O-237, # 2007-O-238, # 2007-O-239, # 2007-O- 240, # 2007-O-239, # 2007-O-240, and # 2007-O-241.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 2007-O-232 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2007-2008 Financial Task Force budget by increasing expenses in the amount of $10,000.00 for an interdiction project awarded by the Office of the National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) High Density Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Funds will be used to pay fringe benefit expenses for a drug interdiction unit comprised of Financial Task Force agents and Laredo Police Officers from January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2007. Fringe benefits will be funded from the opening fund balance.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-232.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-233 Amending the City of Laredo Health Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008 budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $172,239.00, from the Texas Department of State Health Services-Office of Border Health for the Department’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness- Early Warning Infections Disease Surveillance for early detection and rapid response from October 1, 2007 through July 31, 2008, and authorizing the City Manager to execute the contract.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-233.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-234 Amending the City of Laredo Health Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008 annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount $24,750.00 from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for the continuation of the Department’s South Texas Family AIDS Network grant award for the period beginning August 1, 2007 through July 31, 2008 to provide patient care for HIV/AIDS patients.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-234.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-235 Ratifying City Manager’s acceptance of a grant by the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA) Border 2012 Grant Program in the amount of $50,000.00 with the City designating $12,695.00 in matching funds for a total of $62,695.00 and amending the City of Laredo’s Fiscal Year 2007-2008 Annual Budget for the Environmental Services Fund by appropriating the said grant revenue to the appropriate expenditure accounts. Funds will be used for the production of the Dos Laredos Non- Point Source Pollution Early Childhood Education Video.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-235.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-236 Amending the City of Laredo Fiscal Year 2007-2008 annual budget for the parking meters fund by appropriating expenditures in the amount of $300,000.00 from fund balance for the Riverfront Parking Lot Restructuring Project.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-236.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-237 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Foreign Trade Zone Operation Agreement with International Trade & Commerce, Inc., as zone site operator of site 1-D, located at 309 NAFTA Boulevard, effective February 1, 2007 and ending on March 31, 2009. Providing for activation, administration and transaction fees to be paid to the City; providing for an effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-237.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-238 Establishing guidelines and criteria governing tax abatements by the City of Laredo; providing for severability, publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-238.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-239 Amending the Code of Ordinance of the City of Laredo, Chapter 2, Article V. Boards, Commissions, Councils, etc., Division 4. Convention & Visitors Bureau Advisory Board, Sec. 2-223; Membership criteria; term of office; method of appointment; ex-officio members; by amending Sections (a) and (b); This clarifies ordinance to specify that the committee be converted to a nine-person standing committee composed of appointees from each City Council district and an appointee at large by the Mayor as directed through City Council action taken on May 14, 2007. (as amended)
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-239.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-240 Amending Chapter 19, Article XI, Truck Traffic, Division 2, Truck Routes, Section 19-415 (A) (2), Departure from and Return to Designated Truck Route; thereby eliminating existing conflict in the ordinance language regarding the posting of “No Trucks” signs on streets that are not designated as truck routes; providing for severability, publication and effective date.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-240.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2007-O-241 Amending the City of Laredo Code Ordinances to clarify certain sections of the Vehicles for Hire Ordinance and to properly enforce taxicab operation regulation as follows:
1. Section 32-28 (A), renewal of annual permit, of the Code of Ordinances in order to clarify section; 2. Section 32-33 (3), Substitute or replace taxicabs, in order to add and clarify section; 3. Section 32-37 Term and Renewal, in order to clarify section; 4. Section 32-43.1, Suspension and Revocation of a taxicab license, amending subsection (b) and adding a new subsection (12); 5. Section 32-65.1, Parking of Taxicabs, of the Code of Ordinances, in order to clarify section; 6. Section 32-70, property left in taxicab, in order to clarify section; 7. Section 32-71, Taximeters-Required, adding subsections (C) and (D); 8. Section 32-74, Vehicle Requirements and Inspections, in order to add Subsection (10); providing for severability, for an effective date and publication. The Transportation/Traffic Safety Advisory Committee approved these proposed amendments.
Motion to adopt Ordinance 2007-O-241.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. RESOLUTIONS
14. 2007-R-088 Expressing the City of Laredo’s support for the construction of a Border Safety Inspection Facility (BSIF) by the Texas Department of Transportation at the World Trade International Bridge in the general location and in the basic configuration as shown in Attachment A.
Motion to approve 2007-R-088.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XII. MOTIONS
15. Consideration to authorize change order no. 1 in the total amount of $34,316.00 to contract FY 07-153 awarded to Texas Wired Music, Inc., for the purchase of additional audio visual equipment needed for the City Council chambers. The revised contract total will be $206,519.60. Funding is available in the Information Technology and Support Services-Public Education and Government (PEG) Fee Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Chavez Second: Cm. Amaya For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. Consideration to authorize the purchase of one (1) 2007 GMC three (3) ton crew cab utility truck in the amount of $69,345.00; one (1) 2008 GMC cab and chassis with crane in the amount of $129,538.00; from Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., through the Houston Galveston Area Council of Governments (HGAC) and Buy Boards Cooperative Purchasing Program. This equipment will be assigned to the Utilities Department. Funding is available in the 2008 Utilities Budget. Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. Consideration to exercise the renewal option for contract number FY07-096 awarded to Double R Construction, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $275,000.00 for asphalt repairs. The contract pricing is based on a fixed square footage rate of $2.75 for asphalt repairs required due to utility repairs. The term of this contract will be for a one (1) year period. Funding is available in the Water and Sewer Funds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to transfer previous sale of surplus equipment from Rio Bravo, Texas, sold on April 4, 2007 to our Sister City of Lampazos de Naranjo, Nuevo Leon which the City of Rio Bravo was not able to purchase. The equipment consists of one (1) 1995 Mack Refuse Truck with a sale value of $4,500.00 and one (1) 1993 GMC Sweeper with a sale value of $375.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to donate a 1994 Chevy Suburban to Cienega de Flores due to the fact that this vehicle must be exported to Mexico. This suburban is a confiscated vehicle.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorizing the City Manager to acquire through negotiations, the “Surface Only” of Lot 4, Block 2, at 3507 East Ash, in an amount not to exceed $36,000.00, plus approximately $850.00 in incidental expenses; Lot 5, Block 2, at 3509 East Ash Street, in an amount not to exceed $121,000.00, plus approximately $1,300.00 in incidental expenses; and Lot 6, Block 2 at 3511 East Ash Street, in an amount not to exceed $135,000.00, plus approximately $1,400.00 in incidental expenses; for the North Heights Subdivision, Phase II, Drainage Improvements Project, and authorizing additional future parcel acquisitions, as deemed necessary in said subdivision, for the completion of said Drainage Improvements Project. These will be voluntary transactions. Funding is available in North Heights Subdivision, Phase II, Drainage Improvements Project/ 2007 Certificate of Obligation Bond Issue.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amounts to be adjusted for the month of October 2007 represent a decrease of $4,574.65. These adjustments are determined by the Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Consideration for approval to award a professional services contract to Brinkley Sargent Architects, Dallas, Texas, for an amount not to exceed $330,500.00 for Phase I – Development of program and master plans for Northwest Center Park Site and Phase II – Design and Construction of Recreation Center for the Northwest Recreation Center Park to be located on a 7.027 acre site in Villas San Agustin Subdivision, Unit 3. Design work is to be on a fast track basis. Funding is available in the 2005 CO Bond – Northwest Recreation Center/Pool.
Motion to table.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Consideration for approval of change order no. 1 a decrease of $20,117.00 for the balance of quantities actually constructed in place and to add twenty-six (26) working days to the construction contract time due to rain delays and holidays, acceptance of the Police Substation for Fire Station No. 14 at Cielito Lindo Blvd., and approval of a final payment in the amount of $32,334.80 to Zertuche Construction Company, Laredo, Texas. The final construction contract amount is $310,433.00. Funding is available in the 2006 C.O. Bond.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to purchase turnstile spare equipment in the amount of $79,369.76 from sole source provider, Transcore, L.P. for the electronic toll collection system. Funding is available in the Bridge Department Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to purchase one (1) service truck from Rush Truck Centers of Texas, L.P., in the total amount of $98,985.00 through the Houston Galveston Area Council of Government (HGAC) cooperative purchasing program’s contract pricing. This truck will be assigned to the Fleet Maintenance Division. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Fiscal Year 2008 Third Party Funding contract with the Laredo Animal Protective Society providing $300,000.00 for shelter operations funded through the General Fund.
Motion to approve to amend that the word “Third Party Funding” be changed to “contract for services”.
Moved: Cm. Garcia Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. Authorizing the City Manager to accept a donation from the GEO Group in the amount of $250,000.00.
Motion not to accept.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Consideration to award a contract to the low bidder Southwest Business Corporation in the estimated amount of $250,126.00 for credit card processing fees. The following departments/divisions accept payments by credit card: Utilities, Tax, Bridge, Landfill, Health Departments and others. Credit card processing will be used in connection with the Voice Response System, Click2Gov System and credit card terminals. Funding is available in the respective departmental expense line items.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Amending the 2007 Consolidated One-Year Action Plan by reprogramming a total of $825,000.00 of 33rd Action Year (AY) 2007 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for the purpose of funding the Chacon Creek/Guatemozin Street Acquisition and Relocation project by redirecting funding for the following projects:
Canizalez Park Pavilion and Improvements project …………..…... $100,000 Cielito Lindo Park project …………………..…….…………………... $225,000 Shade Structures along Zacate Creek……….……………………… $100,000 Slaughter Park project…………………………………………….……$400,000
Total Funds Reprogrammed………………………………………..…$825,000
The Chacon Creek/Guatemozin Street Acquisition and Relocation project will enhance the floodplain and provide safety to the residents that will be relocated. The park projects are proposed to be funded through the 2007 Certificate of Obligation Bond funds.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract and award the 2007 Emergency Shelter Grant funds (ESG) made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the following non-profit agencies: (1) $60,000.00 to the Laredo Homeless Coalition (LHC) for operation of the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Resource Center, (2) $40,000.00 to the Laredo Homeless Coalition to provide Essential Services, (3) $9,479.00 to Casa de Misericordia (Casa) for operation of their shelter, and (4) $48,000.00 to Bethany House to provide Homeless Prevention assistance. Funding is available in the 2007 Emergency Shelter Grant.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. STAFF REPORTS
31. A. Staff report by the Laredo Public Library regarding Long Range Plan, with discussion and possible action.
Long Range Planning Committee Carmen Escamilla – Advisory Committee Member David Cardwell – Advisory Committee Member Maria G. Soliz – Assistant Library Director Homero Vazquez-Garcia – Outreach Services Manager Rena Ren, Librarian Manager – Public Services Malia Watson, Librarian Manager – Technical Service David Silva – Senior Programmer Analyst Monica Resendiz, Circulation Supervisor Irma Gonzalez, Library Tech. III – Children’s Edna Lopez, Library Tech. III – Tech. Services
Market Research National Service Research Andrea Thomas, Owner/Project Manager
Public Libraries 101
Nearly every Texas public library belongs to one of the ten regional library systems which are administered by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC).
TSLAC requires submission of an Annual Report and Application for System Membership., Libraries must meet certain minimum criteria for system membership and accreditation.
Benefits include collection development funds, consulting and continuing education services, and support for special projects and eligibility for certain grants.
In addition, there are also new recommended standards set by TSLAC and Texas Library Association.
The purpose of these standards is to promote quality library services and to raise the expectations of library users in Texas.
Texas State Library and Archives Commission
New Accreditation Rule
Effective with this year’s report:
“a public library shall have a long-range plan that is approved by its governing board. This plan must be reviewed and updated at least every five years and must include a collection development element”
The Library Long Range Plan was prepared using a two stage process.
Stage I – involved a community needs assessment and an analysis of the Public Library Standards.
Stage II involved recommendation of service priorities, goals, objectives, and action plans by the Long Range Planning Committee.
Laredo Public Library
Laredo Library citizen, Teen and Senior Community Needs Assessment Study
Methodology
Four focus groups sessions with Library users and non-users on May 22 and 23, 2007
Telephone survey with 400 randomly selected Laredo residents July 1 – 20.
Laredo Library staff asked 100 teens and 100 seniors throughout the community to complete the same survey document to gain additional input from these specific audiences.
Margin of error of the entire 600 sample size at 95% confidence level is plus or minus 4.1%.
Summary of Key Findings
Half of citizens surveyed have visited the library within the past year while 19% have never visited the library.
71% of seniors and 77% of teens surveyed have visited the library within the past year
Among respondents who have never used the library and hve not visited for more than one year said the primary reasons for not using the library are: no time, no need and use the internet.
The top library services used among library visitors were: check out a book, use the computers and use online database and resources. 34% of teens use the library for doing homework research.
Summary of Key Findings
Satisfaction with library services (among library users):
All groups surveyed were most satisfied with the knowledgeable, courteous and helpful staff, the children’s programs and the general library services they use.
Although most services had high satisfaction scores, those services with lower satisfaction were
Library services had high satisfaction scores, those services with lower satisfaction were: Library services with lowest satisfaction among citizens and teens: availability of computers and hours of operations Library services with lowest satisfaction among seniors: availability CD’s DVD’s and audio books and availability of computers. Library services not used or users not being aware of services: availability of CD’s DVD, audio books to check out, library web page and availability of children and adult programs.
The library should study these services carefully to determine enhancements needed to increase library use and awareness among citizens. The library must be effective and promoting programs, hours, and other special services and events.
Summary of Key Findings
All respondents reported there was a need for several improvements that would entice them to use the library more often. The library should seriously consider these improvements as well as others mentioned to increase library use among all citizens including teens and seniors:
Top improvements among citizens:
Convenient/expanded hours of operation Add more up to date computers Programs for children to promote reading and writing More programs for families Programs for teens to promote reading and writing
Top Improvements for Seniors
Programs for adults/seniors Programs for teens to promote reading and writing Quiet places to research and read Programs for children to promote reading and writing
Top improvements for teens:
More books for teens Add more up to date computers Establish a comfortable environment with couches, footstools, and bean bags Programs for teens to promote reading and writing Teens will be entices to use the library if it were a comfortable environment, had more books for teens and more up-to-date computers. They also want quite places to research or read, a café/lounge, convenient/expanded hours and more branches to serve the community.
Summary of Key Findings
Programs and services the respondents want that would entice them to use the library more often are listed below:
Top five among citizens:
Offered programs to promote reading and life long learning for all ages Offered computer and internet training for children and teens Offered homework centers/tutoring for school-aged children and teens Offered more family events/programs
Top five among seniors:
Offered programs to promote reading and life long learning’s for all ages Offered computer and internet training for adults Offered guest speakers/author signing events Had programs and other special events for adults and seniors Offered computer and internet training for seniors
Top five among teens:
Offered computer and internet training for children and teens Offered homework centers/tutoring for school-aged children and teens Had programs and other special events for children and teens Offered wider selection of video tapes, tapes, DVD’s CD’s for check out Offered guest speakers/author signing events
The community is not very educated about the library, its services and programs. The library must promote literacy throughout the community as well as it services and programs through advertising, newspaper (smart source section), radio PSA announcements, collaboration with businesses, civic leaders, educators, schools, special events and others. The library should use these results as a guide to make improvements and offer programs for specific audiences in order to increase use and awareness of the library and its offerings.
Motion to approve the plan.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. 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: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Consideration for approval of change order no. 1 a decrease of $12,895.65 for the balance of quantities actually constructed in place to the construction contract with ALC Construction, LLC., Laredo, Texas, and acceptance of the Re-Roofing Project at the Jose Flores Apartments (18 Duplexes Complex). Final construction contract amount is $91,104.35. Funding is available in the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Chavez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. RECESS AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING CORPORATION AND RECONVENE AND ADJOURN AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Motion to recess as the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation and reconvene and adjourn as the Laredo City Council.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Ramirez For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XVI. 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.
33. Request for Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (1) (B) to consult with Assistant City Attorney on settlement offer regarding Shading Concepts, LLC, and return to open session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 (1) (B) to consult with Assistant City Attorney on settlement offer regarding Shading Concepts, LLC, and return to open session for possible action.
Moved: Cm. Garza Second: Cm. Chavez For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After Executive Session the Mayor announced that no formal action was taken.
Motion to accept settlement offer from shade concepts, LLC and to allow shade concepts to proceed with foundation repairs as offered and allow for city’s payment of invoice dated November 8, 2006, in the amount of $1,700.00 to Shade Concepts, LLC., on the condition that the $1,700 not be paid until project completion; that should shade concepts agree to work completion upon a reasonable time deemed by the City; that the job be completed to the Cities satisfaction; and, that the City’s approval of the completed work not be confused as any indemnification of Shade Concepts and that Shade Concepts warranty of such work not be waived.
XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved: Mayor Pro Tempore Belmares Second: Cm. Rendon For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I, Gustavo Guevara, Jr., City Secretary, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct copy of the minutes contained in pages 01 to 35 and they are true, complete, and correct proceedings of the City Council meeting held on November 18, 2007
______________________________ Gustavo Guevara, Jr. City Secretary
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