CITY OF LAREDO

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

M2008-R-010

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

1110 HOUSTON STREET

LAREDO, TEXAS 78040

MAY 19, 2008

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,                                                                        Mayo Pro Tem, District VI

            Juan Chavez,                                                                            Council Member, District VII

            Cynthia Liendo Espinoza,                                                          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 minutes of February 19, 2008.

 

            Motion to approve.

 

            Moved:  Cm. Amaya

            Second:  Cm. Landeck

            For:  8                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

V.        COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

 

            Recognitions

     

            a.  Recognizing El Mañana Newspaper on their 80th anniversary.

 

Ninfa de Anda Martinez and her family were publicly recognized on their 84th  Anniversary.  Also recognized were:  Heriberto Cantu de Anda, Editor in Chief;  Ninfa Cantu de Anda, Editor of Magazines; and Francisco “Paco” Diaz, reporter.

 

            b.  Recognition of Ms. Lara Nigliazzo and Ms. Minerva Saenz who volunteered their time

                 and artistic talents in the preparation of the City of Laredo’s Quilt Square that was made

                 part of the National Civic League’s 2007 All America City Quilt.

 

                  Ronnie Acosta, Community Development Director, reported that last year Laredo participated in the All-American City competition where Laredo was one of 21 communities that were recognized for the different efforts of public and private partnerships. She reported that every city competing was asked to put together a quilt.  She commented that they were blessed to have Mrs. Saenz and Mrs. Nigliazzo help designing the quilt and thanked them.

 

            c.  Recognizing Raul Cavazos, a student at LBJ High School, for winning the Anti-Gang

                 Poster District Competition, and wishing great success in the State Art Competition.

 

                 Mayor Salinas and the City Council presented Raul Cavazos with a Certificate of

                 Recognition.

 

            d.  Recognizing United South High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC drill teams for

                 competing in the National High School Drill Teams Championship in Daytona Beach,

                 Florida on May 2, 2008 where 80 schools and over 1,000 cadets competed. The USHS

                 Marine Corps Junior ROTC received the following awards:

 

Mayor Salinas and the City Council recognized the following with Certificates of  

Recognition:

 

                        *  Armed Drill Team South Panther Rifles placed 2nd in the Inspection Phase, 3rd in

                            Regulation Phase, 3rd in Exhibition Phase and 5th overall.

 

                        *  Unarmed Drill Team South Lady Panthers placed 4th in Regulation Phase, 5th in

                            Exhibition Phase and 5th overall.

 

                        *  Cadet Captain Jose Peña received the Commander's Trophy, 1st place Most

                             Outstanding Commander and;

 

                        *  Cadet Captain Genaro Quiroz placed 2nd in Knock-out Drill. 

 

            Communiqués

            

Mayor Salinas presented the Certificates of Election to Cm. Johnny Rendon and Cm. Cindy Liendo Espinoza.

 

Cm. Garza invited everyone to the 1st Annual Put Up for Scholars Tournament with the City and Webb County against the media.  He commented that the scholarship will go to the respective districts which are: Council District I, Precinct Commissioner 1, and Precinct Commissioner 3.  He stated that the proceeds from the sponsorships will go directly for scholarships through the Rotary Club.  He added that they have raised $15,000 for scholarships.   Lastly, he stated that the tickets are currently on sale for a $3.00 minimum donation and the proceeds will go to the South Texas Food Bank.

 

Cm. Garcia congratulated Cm. Cindy Espinoza.

 

Cm. Landeck invited the citizens of District to III to two Town Hall Meetings which will take place on Tuesday, May 20th , at Daiches Elementary at 6:30 p.m. and on Wednesday, May 21st , at the Laredo Community College, Billy Hall Student Center, Room 137 at 6:30 p.m.

 

            Cm. Amaya congratulated Cm. Cindy Liendo Espinoza.  He also announced that the Dr. Cecilia May Moreno Splash and Skate Park is almost complete.  He thanked Miguel Pescador of the Parks and Leisure Department and his staff for a great job overseeing the project.  He stated that the Zacate Creek Pedestrian Park is 15 % completed.  He thanked Ronnie Acosta, Director of Community Development, and her staff for giving him an update on the status.  He added that his scholarship dinner will be held on May 29, 2008.  He commented that over 25 students will be selected and be given a total of $15,000. 

 

Cm. Rendon reported that he worked side by side with the Police Department for 25 years as a firefighter and added that it was at great feeling to assist them when they needed help.  He stated that he is grateful for their support.  He welcomed Cm. Espinoza to the Council.

 

Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares congratulated Cm. Rendon on his Election Day victory.  He also congratulated Cm. Espinoza for her election as well.  He stated that it was an honor to represent the Council at the laying of the wreath for those officers who gave their ultimate sacrifice.  He thanked them for all of their work. 

 

Cm. Chavez congratulated Cm. Espinoza on her victory.

 

Cm. Espinoza thanked the voters and the community who supported her in the campaign.  She stated that she is ready to get to work.  She mentioned that she is in the process of organizing a Town Hall Meeting to find out what the community’s needs are to be able address them.

 

            Presentation by Mario Medina, District Engineer for the Texas Department of    Transportation (TxDOT), regarding Texas Department of Transportation Projects.

 

Carlos Rodriguez with the Texas Department of Transportation reported that several projects have been completed since December.  He mentioned that at that time there were 8 projects and 5 have been completed.  He commented that on US 83 South, the raised median has been completed for a total of $5.2 million dollars.  He also stated that on Loop 20/US 59, the Diamond Interchange, a $19.2 million dollar project was completed before time.  In addition, he mentioned that on US Highway 59 the construction of passing lanes between Laredo and Freer have been completed in the sum of $8.1 million dollars. He pointed out that on International Blvd. and Loop 20 an upgrade has been done in the amount of  $5.3 million dollars.  He stated that the last project was done on Magana Hein Rd. in South Laredo for $3.1 million.  He noted that there are three ongoing major projects.  He mentioned that the first project is the Interstate Highway 35 Widening project from Milo on Loop 20 on IH 35 all the way to Pilot and Uniroyal is scheduled to be completed in winter of 2008.  He mentioned that the next project is the US 83 which is known as the “Three Points Project” is on SH 359 Interchange which is $29.5 million dollars will be completed in a couple of months.  Finally, the last project is on FM 1472 IH 35 Interchange which should be completed by Spring 2010.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            Citizen comments

 

VI.       APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES

 

            a.  Appointment by Mayor Raul G. Salinas of Pat Campos to replace Jose Gamez on the

                 Para Transit Advisory Committee.

 

                 Motion to approve appointments.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

            b.  Appointment by Council Member Mike Garza of Belinda Guerra to the Convention &

                 Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee.

 

                 Motion to approve appointments.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   8                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

VII.     PUBLIC HEARINGS

 

            1.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Health

                 Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008 budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in

                 the amount of $183,848.00, a one time additional funds equipment and supplies from

                 Texas Department of State Health Services for the Health Department Public Health

                 Preparedness and Epidemiology Program, for a total amount awarded of $561,390.00 for

                 the term period of September 1, 2007 to July 31, 2008.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Amaya

                 Second:  Cm. Garcia

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Cm. Garcia was not present.

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  7                                             Against: 0                                             Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

            2.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Health

                 Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008 budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in

                 the amount of $202,406.00 of additional funds from the Texas Department of State

                 Health Services for a total amount awarded of $952,406.00 for the Health Department

                 Public Health Preparedness and Epidemiology Program (PHP), for renovation of the

                 Department’s Laboratory to a functional bio-safety level 3 facility.  Also changing the

                 term period from September 1, 2006 to August 31, 2008 to September 1, 2006 through

                 July 31, 2008.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  7                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

            3.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the City of Laredo Health

                 Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008 annual budget by appropriating revenues and

                 expenditures in the amount of $412,985.00 in funds from the South Texas Development

                 Council for continuation of the Department’s HIV/Ryan White Program for the term

                 from April 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  7                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

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

                 2007-2008 Capital Improvement Fund Budget by appropriating revenues and

                 expenditures in the amount of $150,390.00 from the FEMA Storm Damage Recovery

                 Funds for the use in repairs at the Santa Rita Park.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

            5.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2007-2008 annual

                 Fire Department Budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of

                 $9,037.00 for a donation by Laredo Medical Center and Seven Flags RAC Trauma

                 Service Area for the purpose of purchasing bicycles, ATV’s, helmets and gloves for the

                  Laredo Fire Department Bike Patrol Team.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

            6.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept Fiscal

                 Year 2007-2008 Federal Planning Funds (PL112) in the amount of $104,412.33 and

                 amending  the City of Laredo’s 2008 General Fund Budget to match PL112’s budget by

                 increasing revenues by $104,412.33 and expenditures by $104,412.33.  The PL112

                 Funds come from the 2008-2009 approved Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP).

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  7                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

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

                 2007-2008 Parking Meter Fund Budget by appropriating expenditures in the additional

                 amount of $97,000.00 from the Parking Meter Fund for the Riverfront Parking Lot

                 Restructuring Project.

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Garcia

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 There was no public input.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

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

                 City of Laredo by authorizing a Special Use Permit for the storage of flammable and

                 explosive products on Lots 1 thru 8, Block 2, Emerald Hills Subdivision, located at 1102

                 Bob Bullock Loop.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval

                 of the special use permit.  The proposed use is storage of flammable and explosive

                 products.  District II

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  7                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:   0

 

Bob Beeson, from Petroleum Solutions, assured Council that the system will be built per the Fire Marshall Code and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Regulations and which will be up to code.  He added that they are a licensed contractor.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:   7                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  Cm. Garcia

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

                 City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1, Block 1, Eva Mejia Subdivision, and 1.90 acres as

                 further described by metes and bounds in attached Exhibit “A,” located at 5811 E.

                 Saunders Street, from B-3 (Community Business District) and B-4 (Highway

                 Commercial District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).  The Planning and Zoning

                 Commission has recommended approval of the zone change.  The proposed use is

                 warehouse.  District II     

 

                 Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Landeck

                 For:   8                                            Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Ron Whitehawk, on behalf of the property owner stated that the intent is to have a   warehouse built on the property.  He stated that in back of the property there is an existing warehouse and there is no residential area in the immediate area.  He added that it is undeveloped land where a large culvert will be built on the highway so that truck traffic will be able to go in and off the highway easily.  He requested approval of the zone change.

 

                 Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Rendon

                 For:  8                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Ordinance Introduction:  Cm. Garcia

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

                   the City of Laredo by authorizing a Conditional Use Permit for a child daycare on .16

                   acres out of Block 55, Calton Gardens #2, as further described by metes and bounds in

                   attached Exhibit “A,” located at 5215 Springfield Avenue.  The Planning and Zoning

                   Commission has recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit.  The proposed

                   use is child daycare.  District V

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                   Second:  Cm. Garcia

                   For:  8                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

Blas Castañeda, of 5301 Springfield, read a letter signed by the residents of Calton Gardens #2 opposing the proposed Conditional Use Permit for child daycare.

 

Nancy Brewster stated that there are several new daycares that have opened from 2007 up until now.  She mentioned that they do not have the availability that she does in regards to parking space.  She commented that she was going to have only 20 children in her daycare center.   

                       

                   Motion to close the public hearing and reject/deny.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                   Second:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                   For:  6                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  1

                                                                                                                                    Cm. Landeck

 

                   Cm. Garza not present. 

            11.  Public hearing and introductory ordinance amending a Conditional Use Permit for a tire

                   shop on Lot 1, Block 806, Eastern Division, located at 402 S. Meadow Avenue by

                   extending the permit for a five year time period.  The Planning and Zoning

                   Commission has recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit.    The

                   proposed use is tire shop.  District III

 

                   Motion to open the public hearing.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:   Cm.  Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   There was no public input.

 

                   Motion to close the public hearing and introduce.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Landeck

                   Second:  Cm Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  Cm. Landeck

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

                   the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1 and the west one-fourth (1/4) of Lot 2, Block

                   1548, Eastern Division, located at 2601 Clark Boulevard, from R-1 (Single Family

                   Residential District) to R-O (Residential Office District); providing for publication and

                   effective date.  The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended denial of the

                   zone change.  The proposed use is weight loss center.  District IV                          

     

                   Motion to postpone.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Amaya

                   Second:  Cm. Garcia

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                  

VIII.    INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

 

            13.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Amendment to the Scheduled Airline

                   Operating Agreement and Terminal Building Lease with Allegiant Air approved on

                   July 17, 2006, by Ordinance No. 2006-O-157 for exclusive and non-exclusive joint use

                   space located at the Laredo International Airport passenger terminal for the purpose of              conducting commercial air transportation services.  Said Amendment effective January               1, 2008, extends the term to end on December 31, 2010, in order to coincide with other

                   existing Scheduled Airline Operating Agreements, provides an incentive to air for new

                   service to new destinations and incorporates the rental rate structure agreed with the

                   other airlines operating at the Laredo International Airport.   However, it is agreed by

                   the Parties that this agreement may be terminated by either party without cause on not

                   less than ninety (90) days’ written notice from the party terminating to the other.  The

                   monthly rent is $2.50 per enplaned revenue passenger for the first 20,000 enplaned

                   revenue passengers, $2.25 per enplaned revenue passenger for the next 10,000

                   enplaned revenue passengers, $2.00 per enplaned revenue passenger for next 10,000

                   enplaned revenue passengers and $1.75 per enplaned revenue passenger for 40,001+

                   enplaned revenue passengers.  The airline’s landing fee obligation shall be $0.75 per

                   thousand pounds Maximum Certificated Gross Landing Weight of the airline’s aircraft;

                   providing for an effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            14.  Designating as a one-way eastbound the 1400 block of Ugarte Street, between Santa

                   Maria Avenue and Juarez Avenue, as a one-way southbound the 3800 and 3900 block

                   of Juarez Avenue, between Ugarte Street and Boston Street, and as a one-way

                   Westbound the 1400 block of Boston Street, between Juarez and Santa Maria Avenue,

                   during the peak hours of 7:00 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., Monday

                   thru Friday during school days, providing for the installation of appropriate signs to

                   indicate one-way traffic; providing for publication and an effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            15.  Designating as a one-way northbound the 1700 and 1800 Block of McPherson Avenue,

                   between Galveston  Street and Lane Street, and designating as a one-way eastbound the

                   1200 and 1300 block of Lane Street, between McPherson Avenue and Loring Avenue

                   during the peak hours of 7:00 am. to 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., Monday thru

                   Friday, during school days, providing the installation of appropriate signs to indicate

                  one-way traffic and providing for publication and an effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council

 

            16.  Amending Chapter 19, “Motor Vehicles and Traffic” Article VIII; Stopping, Standing

                   or Parking, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Laredo; specifically Section 19-

                   364, Restricted Parking Areas, establishing a “No Parking Anytime/Tow Away Zone”

                   on the North and South side of Village Boulevard, between Springfield Avenue and

                   800 feet east of Springfield Avenue and the east and west of Martingale between

                   Village Boulevard and 300 feet south of Village Boulevard, within City limits of

                   Laredo; providing for severability and for an effective date and publication.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council 

            17.  Adding new Section 19-382 to Article X [Impoundment of Vehicles] of Chapter 19

                   [Motor Vehicles and Traffic] of the Code of Ordinances; said Section 19-382

                   authorizing the Police Department to adopt a city-wide policy for the towing and

                   impoundment of vehicles when the operator has either failed to maintain or cannot

                   present proof of financial responsibility as required by State Law; and establishing an

                   effective date.

 

                   Ordinance Introduction:  City Council 

IX.       FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 

 

            Motion to waive the final reading of Ordinances 2008-O-092, 2008-O-093, 2008-O-094,       2008-O-095, 2008-O-096, 2008-O-097, 2008-O-098, 2008-O-099, 2008-O-100, 2008-O-        101, 2008-O-102.

 

            Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

            Second:  Cm. Garcia

            For:  7                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:   0

           

            18.  2008-O-092  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

                                        Lot 10, Block 97, Western Division, located at 419 Farragut Street, from

                                        R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to R-O (Residential/Office District);

                                        providing for an effective date and publication...

 

                                        Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-092.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                 2008-O-093  Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning

                                       all Blocks 488, 488A, 489, 489A, and Lot 1, the west 44.34 feet of Lot 2,

                                       the north 55.1 feet and the west 33.3 feet of Lot 7, and all Lot 8, Block

                                       490, Eastern Division, located at 4401 San Francisco Avenue, from MXD

                                       (Mixed Use Development District) to B-3 (Community Business District);

                                       providing for an effective date and publication.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance  2008-O-093.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For: 7                                   Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

                  2008-O-094  Accepting a supplemental grant awarded and amending the City of Laredo

                                       FY 2007-2008 Financial Task Force grant budget by increasing revenues

                                       and expenditures in the amount of $15,577.00 for operational expenses

                                       awarded by the Office of the National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) High

                                       Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). Funds will be used to pay

                                       overtime expenses for The Laredo Financial Narcotics Enforcement Team

                                       agents from January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-094.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                 2008-O-095  Amending the City of Laredo Health Department Fiscal Year 2007-2008

                                       annual budget by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount

                                       of $14,513.00 of additional funds from the South Texas Development

                                       Council to the Health Department’s HIV/Health & Social Services for a

                                       total amount of $137,555.00 from the period of September 1, 2007 through

                                       August 31, 2008.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-095.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                 2008-O-096  Amending the City of Laredo Health Department FY 2007-2008 annual

                                       budget by decreasing $111,315.00 in funds due to a realignment of funds

                                       from the Texas Department of State Health Services, for a total amount

                                       awarded of $181,622.00 which includes an estimated Program Income of

                                       $22,814.00 for the prenatal services provided by the Health Department

                                       Maternal and Child Health (MCH-Title V Fee-For Services) Program, for

                                       the period of September 1, 2007, through August 31, 2008. 

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-096.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-097  Authorizing the City Manager to accept a National Network of Libraries

                                       of Medicine South Central Region (NN/LM SCR) award in the amount of

                                       $5,000.00 and to amend the City of Laredo Friends of the Library Fiscal

                                       Year 2007-2008 annual budget by appropriating said funds.  This is a cost-

                                       reimbursement award.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-097.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-098  Authorizing the City Manager to accept the 21st Century Innovation-

                                       Library Technology Grant from the Texas Book Festival in the amount of

                                       $5,000.00 and amending the City of Laredo Library Fiscal Year 2007-2008

                                       Annual Budget.  Funds will be used to purchase four (4) computers to

                                       create an e-mail kiosk for the Main Library.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-098.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-099  Amending Article IX [Swimming Pools] of Chapter 15 Section 144

                                       Number 19 changing the amount of liability insurance from $1,000,000.00

                                       to $500,000.00 and to increment said $500,000.00 annually by

                                       $250,000.00 until amount of insurance is no less than $1,000,000.00.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-099.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-100  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease agreement with the Boys

                                       and Girls Club of Laredo. This agreement authorizes the lease of an

                                       unimproved tract of real property (as depicted in the lease agreement in

                                       Exhibit “A”), A 44,609 square foot parcel, more or less, out of City of

                                       Laredo 20.0177 acre tract of record in Volume 1614, Pages 520 thru 530,

                                       Official Public Records of Webb County, Texas, situated in Porcion 22,

                                       Abstract 277, in the North Central Park located along International

                                       Boulevard, Laredo, Texas, County of Webb. This agreement establishes a

                                       fee of $1.00 per annum for a term of forty (40) years.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-100.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-101  Closing as a public easement that section of the 1900 block of Calton

                                       Road between Maher and Thomas Avenues as per the Laredo Airport Plat

                                       recorded in Vol. 5, Page 1, Webb County Plat records situated in the City

                                       of Laredo, County of Webb, Texas and providing for an effective date.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-101.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

                  2008-O-102  Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Amendment to the Lease

                                       Agreement approved on March 1, 1998, by Ordinance No. 99-O-064

                                       between the City of Laredo, as Lessor, and The Laredo National Bank, as

                                       Lessee, for the approximate 5,632 square feet constituting Building No.

                                       146 located at 4401 Maher Avenue at the Laredo International Airport. 

                                       Said Amendment specifically amends Lessee’s name from The Laredo

                                       National Bank to Compass Bank, an Alabama banking corporation, and

                                       amends Section 1.03, Option to Extend, allowing Lessor and/or Lessee to

                                       have the right to terminate the Lease Agreement at any time with or

                                       without cause, and without any penalty, upon ninety (90) days prior written

                                       notice from the party terminating to the other, and amends Section 1.06,

                                       Rent Adjustments Based on Appraisals, wherein Lessor and Lessee agree

                                       that the monthly rent shall be $1,860.00 commencing on July 1, 2006, and

                                       that such rent be adjusted according to changes in the Consumer Price

                                       Index provided for in Section 1.05, Rental Escalation, on July 1, 2007, and

                                       annually thereafter.  All other terms and conditions of the lease remain

                                       unchanged and in effect; providing for an effective date.

 

                                       Motion to adopt Ordinance 2008-O-102.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Garcia

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

X.        RESOLUTIONS

 

            19.  2008-R-039  Confirming the appointment/reappointment for a member of the Fire

                                        Fighter’s & Police Officers Civil Service Commission of the City of

                                        Laredo.

 

                                        Motion to table Resolution 2008-R-039.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

            20.  2008-R-044  Authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to Grant

                                        agreement CSJ No. M822LREDO with the Texas Department of

                                        Transportation under the Routine Airport Maintenance Program;

                                        specifically, amending Attachment A-Scope of services.  The amendment

                                        will add Poly Flex III sealant for cracks within the airfield and general

                                        aviation areas.  All work described in Attachment A shall be accomplished

                                        by August 31, 2008.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-044.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

            21.  2008-R-045  Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the Federal

                                        Aviation Administration (FAA) in the amount of $2,000,000.00 for airport

                                        noise mitigation under FAR Part 150 Noise Abatement Program at the

                                        Laredo International Airport.  The City’s five (5%) percent local land

                                        match in the amount of $105,263.16 is available through the land

                                        purchased in Fiscal Year 2006 (Rash Tract).

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-045.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

            22.  2008-R-046  Accepting the donation of the “Surface Only” of one (1) parcel of land

                                        from North House Properties, Ltd., for general purpose use by the City of

                                        Laredo.  Said parcel being Lot No. 104, Block No. 4, University Park

                                        Subdivision, Phase 5, as per Plat recorded in Volume 20, Page 28, Webb

                                        County Plat Records, and described in attached Exhibit A.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-046.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

            23.  2008-R-047  Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the Federal

                                        Aviation Administration for Entitlement Funds in the amount of

                                        $900,000.00 to acquire Runway Protection Zone parcel to Runway 35L,

                                        contract for A & E Professional Services to prepare plans and

                                        specifications to rehabilitate General Aviation Apron Phases 5 and 6,

                                        upgrade passenger terminal automation and security access systems, and

                                        seal coat portion of Runway17R/35L.  The City’s five (5%) percent local

                                        land match in the amount of $47,369.00 is available through the land

                                        purchased in Fiscal Year 2006 (Rash Tract).

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-047.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

            24.  2008-R-048  Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to the Target

                                        Corporation in the amount of $2,000.00 for promotional supplies.  The

                                        grant is to be funded under the Target and Blue Law Enforcement

                                        Program for the period of October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009 at

                                        no cost to the City.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-048.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                                        For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:

 

            25.  2008-R-049  Supporting and adopting the May 2008 City of Laredo Parks and Leisure

                                        Parks and Open Space Master Plan to serve as a standard and guideline for

                                        the development of future park areas and the improvement of existing

                                        facilities to provide quality recreation to all citizens of Laredo.

 

                                        Motion to approve Resolution 2008-R-049.

 

                                        Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                                        Second:  Cm. Amaya

                            For:  7                                  Against:  0                                Abstain:  0

 

Recess at 8:15 – 8:38

 

XI.       MOTIONS

 

            26.  Motion to re-designate $100,000.00 that were previously authorized for the Animal

                   Shelter from the following districts toward Industrial Park Street Improvements:

 

                   District 1    $10,000.00    District 4   $5,000.00      District 7    $10,000.00

 

                   District 2    $50,000.00    District 5   $10,000.00

 

                   District 3    $10,000.00    District 6   $5,000.00

 

                    The Animal Shelter will be funded from the Capital Improvement Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

   

            27.  Amending the contract with the Laredo Animal Protective Society to provide for an

                   additional $100,000.00 in funding for capital improvements to the Animal Shelter and

                   up to $12,000.00 as supported through the City of Laredo Health Department’s

                   collection of vacunas.  Funding is available in the Capital Improvements Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against: 0                                             Abstain:  0

     

            28.  Providing that the motion approved by City Council on March 10, 2008 which

                   authorized that FY 2007 -2008 Third Party funding for the Webb County Community

                   Action Agency’s (CAA) Meals on Wheels Program be increased by $12,000.00 be

                   amended to provide that the $12,000.00 increase be divided equally between CAA’s

                   Elderly Nutrition Program and the Meals on Wheels Program.   

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            29.  Consideration for approval of change order no. 3 a decrease of $6,460.00 for the

                   balance of quantities actually constructed in place, acceptance of the Bristol Road

                   Drainage Improvement and approval of final payment in the amount of $97,385.00 to

                   SER Construction Partners, Pasadena, Texas.  Final construction contract amount is

                   $470,260.00.  Funding is available in the 2005 CO Bond and the 32nd Action Year-

                   Community Development.  

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            30.  Consideration to amend contract FY06-055 currently awarded to Cantu Electric,

                   Laredo, Texas, for furnishing of machinery, equipment, labor and all other services

                   necessary for the maintenance of street lights (not maintained by AEP) services for the

                   Traffic Department by increasing the contract amount by $75,000.00 to a new contract

                   amount of $375,000.00. Due to an increase in electrical service projects and repairs, the

                   proposed amendment would increase the current contract in order to provide funding

                   for the remainder of the contract term.  Funding is available in the General Fund-

                   Traffic Safety Budget, and 2007 C.O. Bond.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            31.  Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter into contract with Gulf Coast

                   Emergency Vehicles, a division of Houston Freightliners, Inc., Houston, TX in the total

                   amount of $1,396,995.00 for the purchase of two (2) fire pumper trucks, three (3) brush

                   tankers, and one (1) ambulance utilizing the Houston-Galveston Area Council of

                   Governments (H-GAC) cooperative purchasing agreements.  Funding will be used from

                   the 2007 Certificate of Obligation Bond and will be reimbursed once the 2008

                   Certificate of Obligation Bond is sold.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            32.  Consideration to award supply contract number FY08-064 to the following bidders: 

 

                   1.  Screen Crushed Concrete, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of  $281,000.00,

                        for the purchase of flexible base crushed concrete (picked up at vendor’s yard and

                        job site delivered); 

 

                   2.  Leyendecker Materials, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $191,000.00, for

                        the purchase of flexible base – type B (picked up at vendor’s yard), gravel (picked

                        up at vendor’s yard and job site delivered) and sand (picked up at vendor’s yard);

 

                   3.  Brothers Materials, Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $176,500.00, for the

                        purchase of flexible base (picked up at vendor’s yard and job site delivered) and

                        sand (job site delivered); for the purchase of materials required for all city paving

                        and construction projects.

 

                   The term of this contract is for a one (1) year period and is subject to the availability of

                   funds.  All materials are purchased on an as needed basis utilizing the Public Works

                   Department, Utilities Department, and construction projects budgets. 

 

                   Motion to remove Item 1 and approve as amended.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

            33.  Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll.  The amounts to be adjusted for the

                   month of April 2008 represent an increase of $39,632.39.  These adjustments are

                   determined by Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

            34.  Refund of property tax in the amount of $1,336.98 payable to Litton Loan Servicing,

                   LP due to an overpayment.  Account #986-00004-320.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            35.  Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for the purchase of 2000 ac/ft of

                   municipal water rights from Harlingen Irrigation District, Cameron County No. 1 at a

                   cost of $2,250 per ac/ft for the sum of $4,500,000.00 (651,600,000 gallons). Funding is

                   available in Waterworks Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:     7                                        Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            36.  Awarding a contract to Dynamic Pump Systems, Austin, Texas; in the amount of

                   $111,000.00 for the Mary Help of Christians (MHOC) Booster Station Pump

                   Procurement Project.   The project consists of procurement of two (2) new 400 HP

                   pumping units for the new pressure plane and one (1) new 350 HP pumping unit for the

                   existing pressure plane served by the MHOC station.  Funding is available in the 2006

                   Bond issue.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            37.  Authorizing the City Manager to award an engineering contract with Crane

                   Engineering Corporation – Laredo, Texas in the amount of $62,395.00 to prepare plans

                   and specifications for house to line connections for water and wastewater services for

                   126 lots at D-5 Acres, Laredo Ranchettes and Ranchitos 359 East.  This project is

                   funded by the North American Development Bank (NADB). Funds are available in the

                   Colonias Fund.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            38.  Consideration to amend purchase order issued to Schindler Elevator Corporation, San

                   Antonio, Texas, by increasing the total to $39,144.00 which is an increase of

                   $22,821.00 for furnishing parts and labor and for the repair of the damaged escalator at

                   the Laredo International Airport.  Due to the continuous use of the escalator, it is

                   essential that the repair be completed.  Funding is available in the Airport Budget.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            39.  Consideration to exercise the renewal option for contract FY07-085 to the low bidder

                   SOS Liquid Waste Haulers, LTD Co., San Antonio, Texas, in the estimated amount of

                   $50,000.00 to analyze, profile, transport and dispose of contaminated water at the Solid

                   Waste.  The term of this contract will be for a one year period with an option to extend

                   this contract for two (2), one (1) year terms. Funding is available in the Solid Waste

                   Department budget.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            40.  Consideration to award annual service contract FY08-075 to the sole bidder, Freedom

                   Construction, Laredo, Texas in the estimated amount of $80,000 for furnishing

                   cleaning services for domestic sewage back-ups into private properties.  The frequency

                   and number of service calls will vary depending on the City’s need.  Funding for this

                   service is available in the Utilities Department- Wastewater Collection Division.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            41.  Consideration to authorize the purchase of:

                   a.  two (2), 2008 Heil DP Python 28 yard automated side loaders in the amount of

                        $182,623.20 from Heil of Texas through the BuyBoard Cooperative program and;

                   b. two (2) 2008 Peterbilt 320 cab and chassis for the side loaders in the amount of

                   $252,526.00 from Rush Truck Centers of Texas L.P., through the Houston Galveston

                   Area Council of Governments (H-GAC).  This equipment will be assigned to the Solid

                   Waste’s Sanitation Department.  Funding is available from the 2007 certificates of

                   obligation bond proceeds.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            42.  Consideration to award annual supply contract FY08-021 to:

                   a)  All States Coatings, Goldwater, Texas, in the estimated amount of $50,000.00 for

                        providing airfield marking paint for the Airport Department.  This contract

                        establishes contract pricing for airport marking paint for the runway and taxiway

                        striping for a one (1) year period.

                   b)  Authorize that all bids received for the traffic marking paint be rejected, and;

                   c)  The traffic marking paint will be purchased from Ennis Paint, Ennis, TX utilizing a

                        State of Texas - Department of Transportation (TXDOT) piggyback contract.   All

                        items will be purchased on an as needed basis.  Funding is available in the Airport

                        Construction fund – TXDOT RAMP Grant 2008 Budget and Traffic Safety Division

                        Budget.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  7                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XII.     GENERAL COUNCIL DISCUSSIONS AND PRESENTATIONS

 

            43.  A.  Request by Council Member Mike Garza

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on adding street lights at Los Presidentes by using

                 Discretionary Funds in the amount not to exceed $10,000.00.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Cm. Garza and Cm. Chavez were not present at this point.

 

                  B.  Request by Council Member Hector J. Garcia

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on upgrading street lights in District II by using

                 Discretionary funds in the amount not to exceed $15,000.00.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Garcia

                 Second:  Cm. Rendon

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                  C.  Request by Council Member Dr. Michael Landeck

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on installing lights at the Santa Rita Championship

                 soccer fields by using CDBG funds.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Landeck

                 Second:  Cm. Garcia

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

                  D.  Request by Council Member Johnny Amaya

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on using Discretionary Funds for computers at the Inner

                 City Park Recreation Center in the amount of $15,000.00 and $80,000.00 to purchase

                 and install sun shades at the parks located in District IV.

 

Motion to approve with the correction of $50,000 instead of $80,000 to purchase and install sun shades at the parks located in District IV. 

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Amaya

                 Second:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 For:      6                                         Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                 Cm. Amaya noted that the amended difference of $30,000 shall be used for the                         Recreational Center in District II for individuals with special needs.  He asked that this                item be placed on the next agenda.  

  

            2.  Discussion with possible action to designate $100,000.00 towards the Laredo Family

                 Recovery Center for improvements to City owned property from the Capital

                 Improvements line item. In turn $100,000.00 from District IV Discretionary Funds

                 (bond proceeds) will be transferred to the Industrial Park Project.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Amaya

                 Second:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

                E. Request by Council Member Johnny Rendon

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action to place two (2) school zone flashing lights at the end of

                 Mayberry Street and the entrance to Clark Elementary School, to be funded by District V

                 Discretionary Funds.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            2.  Discussion with possible action on placing a chain link fence for residents of the Laredo

                 Municipal Housing located in District V.

 

                 Cm. Rendon stated that he would provide $100,000 out of his discretionary funds.

 

                 Motion to approve as amended.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action to designate $50,000.00 towards the Laredo Family

                 Recovery Center for improvements to City owned property from the Capital

                 Improvement line item. In turn $50,000.00 from District V Discretionary Funds (bond

                 proceeds) will be transferred to the Industrial Park Project.

 

                 Motion to approve.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Rendon

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

 

                 F.  Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

 

            1.  Discussion with possible action on creating a zero tolerance policy for code

                 enforcement.

 

Cm. Belmares pointed out that he sees a host of violations that are being observed by members of our enforcement group. He pointed out several examples that include:  a vast number of cars parking on sidewalks in school zones, buildings in residential areas that are known apartments and have no building permits, and people selling pets.  He emphasized that they are not being enforced.  He asked the City Manager to create a zero tolerance policy. if not for the city, at least for his district.  He requested that if staff sees someone breaking the law, they should cite them because it is getting out of hand.

    

                 Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, stated that there will be enforcement.

 

Oscar Vela, representing Agave Azul Restaurant Bar, stated that they are the biggest business in their area and they have received negative publicity.  He noted that it is a legitimate restaurant with a full menu.  He commented that after a certain time the clientele demands more beverage than food.  He mentioned that he heard that the restaurant was in violation because they were operating a bar in the wrong area even though, he advised the City that the business is a restaurant/bar.  He advised City Council that if a business has all the required permits in place and is in compliance with the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission, a zero tolerance policy can only be enforced when there are actual laws in place that can be defined and interpreted fairly; otherwise the ordinance will be vague and unenforceable. 

 

Cm. Belmares stated that since Agave Azul has several citations and will appear in court, he would rather not litigate the issue.  He mentioned that the court would decide if they are in violation of the ordinances or not.  He added that he wants to focus on other ordinances that he is looking at.  He stated that there are detention ponds that should have been built and have not been built.  He added that there are also other issues in the district.   He emphasized that if violations are not enforced, what is the point of having ordinances. 

 

            2.  Discussion with possible action on rejoining the South Texas Rain Enhancement

                 Program.

 

Cm. Belmares reported that at one time, Laredo was part of this program and since then have opted out.  He stated that the main concern is having to pay the majority of the bill, but ultimately, Laredo will benefit tremendously from the program. He pointed out that rainfall that hits the county improves the ability to market the deer population and deer hunting which benefits the city.  He added that the recharge that happens in the aquifer also benefits the city.

 

Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, stated that the city discussed it with State Representative Susan King who was also interested along with other individuals.  He added the he has no problems with that and it can be taken out of water availability. 

 

                 Motion to rejoin the South Texas Rain Enhancement Program.

 

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  6                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            3.  Discussion with possible action on the Parks Master Plan and park projects in District

                 VI.

 

     Cm. Belmares stated that he noticed that there are some issues that need to be clarified. 

     He asked the City Manger, Carlos Villarreal, if there are plans for Taos and Sontera

     subdivision which are on the Divine Mercy Tract and are not currently identified in the

     master plan or a subsequent master plan

 

Miguel Pescador, Parks and Leisure Department Director, stated that there are conceptual design plans, but there is no actual design phase.  He said that for Devine Mercy there is no set design yet, but there are several different options as to what park amenities can be developed.

 

Cm. Belmares mentioned that in discussion with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Chairman, Henry Mejia, they had specifically asked to look into doing minimal improvements to those tracks to be able to give the people the opportunity to go to a park.  He noted that there was a play structure given to Laredo by the Bruni Foundation that is currently in storage.  He said that they looked at $100,000 investment per park which included the addition of irrigation and trees to one park. He stated that also included are trails to both parks because Taos presently has trees and irrigation.  He commented that he did not see this in the master plan nor has he seen them being pushed forward on the project.

 

            4.  Discussion with possible action on the Center for the Arts lease.

 

                 Item tabled.

 

XIII.    STAFF REPORTS

 

            44.  A. Status report regarding a “plastic free” community ordinance, with possible action.

 

Javier Garza stated that he applauded those that want to eliminate the eye sore that is caused by plastic bags, but there are many dangers if it is not done properly.  He mentioned that two main sources of revenue and business are retail sales and international trade.  He stated that if limiting the use of these bags without a proper alternative would cause other cites to compete even more. 

 

Leon Ramirez reported that he did some studies and found an article in the Times of London that states that in 1987 a Canadian study in New Finland reported that between 1981 and 1984 more than 100 marine mammals and sea birds were killed by discarded nets.  He mentioned that 15 years later in 2002, the Australian government commissioned a report on the effects of plastic bags.  He commented that the author of the report misquoted the Canadian study attributing the deaths of the animals to plastic bags when in fact; it was due to discarded nets.  He mentioned that the error went unnoticed until four years later when the author altered the report to read plastic debris. He pointed out that the erroneous claim became the keystone to the campaign against plastic bags. He noted that he contacted Green Peace and they are in agreement along with the Sierra Club that plastic bags are of no consequence.   

 

Luis Lidsky, a retailer, stated that it is a grave error and problems that would arise if people walk into an establishment with recyclable bags that have products.  He mentioned that this would cause a control issue.  He added that plastic bags are not as damaging to the environment as reported.  He commented that they are easier to produce and use less energy in the production of them.  He asked for the Council to look at this issue very seriously.

 

Riazul Mia, Environmental Services Director, reported that this issue was brought up because City Council adopted a strategy plan in 2003 to have a clean city.  He pointed out that the issue was not brought up because of environmental issues or other issues.   Lastly, he thanked the committee members who spent four months working on the balanced ordinance.

 

Judd Gilpin, Chairman of the Citizen’s Environmental Advisory Committee, presented the following Power Point presentation on the “Recommendations on a “Plastic Free” City.

 

Recommendations on a “Plastic Free” City.

 

Background

 

·        In December 8, 2003, City Council adopted a Strategic Plan that included different goals for a “Clean City”, specifically section 2 (b):

-         Establish ordinance to eliminate use of plastic bags and require recyclable bags and non-returnable containers

·        Other elements of this plan include the development of a Commercial Litter Prevention Ordinance, which the CEAC worked on and Council adopted in 2005.

 

Introduction

 

·        NOT A BAN ON PLASTIC BAGS!

 

·        At the October 15, 2007 City Council meeting there was a discussion to become a plastic-free city.  A motion was made by Cm. Garcia and seconded by Cm. Ramirez to instruct staff and the Citizens’ Environmental Advisory Committee (CEAC) to develop an ordinance dealing with the plastic bag problem.

 

 

Process

 

·        Committee and Staff Researched ordinances form other cities (SF, Annapolis)

·        Discussed issues through a series of nine (9) public meetings.

·        Held two (2) special meetings that were advertised in the newspaper.

·        All meetings allowed public comments and in-depth discussion with members of the public.

·        Committee discussed issues and comments by the public.

·        Draft ordinance was molded to reflect citizen comments, recommendations,      

         and concerns.

 

Elements of the Proposed Ord.

 

·              Will initially apply to big box retail stores, grocery stores, and convenience

             stores with more than three (3) stores under the same owner or brand name.

·              After three (3) years will apply to all retail stores.

·              Implements a six (6) month education timeline, where affected stores will be

            educated and required to notify their customers of the ordinance through

            signage.

·              Implementation will begin after one (1) year of the passage of the ordinance.

·              Allows for paper bags and plastic bags that are 4 Mils or more in thickness

            to be used a s checkout bags.

·              Allows customers to bring their own reusable bag, box basket, etc. for

            carrying their purchased items.  Allows for customers to use shopping cart as

            well.

·              Does not affect plastic bags used in the preparation or distribution of food.

 

Cost research

 

·              Plastic Bag Costs

-   $0.02 per bag (0.6 Mils)

-   $0.19 per bag (4 Mils)

 

·              Paper Bag Cost:

- $0.08 per bag

        

Motion need to proceed with Ordinance

 

·              Allows for paper bags and plastic bags that are 4 Mils or more in thickness

            to be used as checkout bags.

·              Timeline – First year applies to Big Box, Grocery, and Convenience Stores.  

            After three (3) years applies to all retail stores.

 

Cm. Garcia commended the committee on their outstanding job.  He emphasized that we have to keep our community clean.  He stated that there will be a six month timeline to educate the businesses and the public on recycling.  He commented that it was time for downtown merchants to help the city out by keeping Laredo clean.

 

Motion to accept and have the Department Head meet with our City Attorney to make sure that all the language is read and if our attorney has any concerns it will be brought back to the next City Council meeting for consideration.

 

Moved:  Cm. Garcia

Second:  Cm. Amaya

For:  5                                   Against:  2                                Abstain:  0       

                                             Cm. Chavez

                                             Cm. Espinoza

 

Cm. Garza was not present.

 

            B.  Presentation regarding a community city day event at the Laredo Entertainment Center

                 (LEC) of exhibition soccer game by the Leyendas de El Clasico America vs.                                         Guadalajara on Saturday, June 14, 2008 and co-sponsored by the Convention & Visitors

                 Bureau, with possible action.

 

Steve Mondragon reported that there will be an international soccer event at the Laredo Entertainment Center on June 14, 2008.  He mentioned that the event consists of bringing America against Guadalajara which are two legendary teams in Mexico.  He commented that they will be legendary icon players that will play as well.  He added that they integrated two events which consist of the VIP Event which promotes a charitable contribution by bringing a local celebrities and leaders to play in the event.  He stated that they have an “Under 10” and an “Under 12 “ tournament for children.  He noted that children will be brought from Austin, McAllen and San Antonio to play at the tournament.  He added that there will be a total of 16 teams playing.  He presented two rosters with a listing of the players.

 

Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, suggested that we get $3,000 or $ 4,000 worth of  tickets being that the City is paying $15, 600 for the rent. 

 

                 Motion to follow through with the sponsorship.

 

                 Moved:  Cm. Landeck

                 Second:  Mayor Pro Tempore Belamares

                 For:  7                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XIV.    EXECUTIVE SESSION

 

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

 

XV.      RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO    MASS TRANSIT BOARD

 

            Motion to recess as the Laredo City Council and Convene as the Laredo Mass Transit Board.

 

            Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

            Second:  Cm. Amaya

            For:  5                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

                       

            45.  Consideration to extend and modify the current bus shelter advertising contract with

                   Lamar Company, L.L.C. D/B/A/ Lamar Advertising of Laredo for an additional Ten

                   (10) years starting February 23, 2011, with one (1) five (5) year option for the purpose

                   of:

                   (a) Installing an additional fifty (50) new bus shelters over the next ten (10) years

 

                   (b)  In lieu of the average $20,000.00 paid to the City, Lamar will maintain an

                          additional 270 benches belonging to the City of Laredo and 105 bus shelters

                           belonging to Lamar

                   (c)  Assume costs of repairs and vandalism up to $50,000.00 per year on Lamar

                         inventory.

                   (d) The option to pilot a new project for additional revenue opportunities for the City

                          and Lamar by selling advertising displays in the bus tunnel terminal walls at 35%

                          revenue share.

                   (e)   At no charge, Lamar will provide up to 10% of unsold advertising space currently

                          valued at $36,000.00 and ad design services valued at $150.00 per hour that will be

                          used for El Metro discretion.

 

                   Motion to approve.

 

                   Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                   Second:  Cm. Amaya

                   For:  5                                           Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            46.  Consideration to extend and modify the current contract  FY04-047   between the City

                   of Laredo and bus ads for bus exterior and interior advertising service by extending the

                   contract for an additional ten (10) years commencing from June 1, 2009 to May 31,

                   2019 with one (1) additional five (5) year option for the following purpose:

            a.  The City shall have the right to use 10% of unsold exterior space and 20% of unsold

                  interior space at no charge.

            b.  Providing the City of Laredo with artwork, vinyl and installation of city’s advertisement

                 at cost.

                 Providing the City of Laredo with venue to promote city departments and city sponsored           events.

 

Carlos Villarreal, City Manager, stated that we prohibit any type of political signs on the  advertisement for any candidate whether it be for City, County, or Federal elections.

 

                 Motion to approve as amended

      

                 Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

                 Second:  Cm. Amaya

                 For:  5                                             Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

            RECESS AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS THE           LAREDO CITY COUNCIL.

 

            Motion to recess as the Laredo Mass Transit Board and reconvene as the Laredo City Council.

 

            Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

            Second:  Cm. Amaya

            For:  5                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0

 

XVI.    ADJOURNMENT

 

            Motion to adjourn.                                                                                            Time:  9:24 p.m.

 

            Moved:  Mayor Pro-Tempore Belmares

            Second:  Cm. Amaya

            For:  5                                                  Against:  0                                            Abstain:  0