CITY OF LAREDO COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M97-R-11 MARCH 24, 1997
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr. called the meeting to
order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Saul N. Ramirez led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
SAUL N. RAMIREZ, JR., MAYOR
JOSE R. PEREZ, JR., COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT I
LOUIS H. BRUNI, " , DISTRICT II
ALFONSO I. "PONCHO" CASSO, " , DISTRICT III
CECILIA MAY MORENO, " , DISTRICT IV
ELISEO VALDEZ, " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
MARIO GEORGE ALVARADO, " , DISTRICT VII
CONSUELO "CHELO" MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, CITY MANAGER
JERRY BRUCE CAIN, ASST. CITY ATTORNEY
IV. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #97-O-065,
#97-O-066, #97-O-067, and #97-O-068.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
(Cm. Alvarado not present.)
2. 97-O-065 Ordinance closing as a public easement a road dedicated to
the Public described on Aurelio Luera's Subdivision Plat of
Block 1436, Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County,
recorded in Vol. 1, Page 90 of the Webb County Plat Records
and releasing any interest the City of Laredo may have on
the title of the road property hereby abandoned as a public
easement, and providing for effective date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-065.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. 97-O-066 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute all
necessary documents to effectively convey fee simple title
to Lorraine Laurel for the sale at fair market value of "The
Surface Only" of certain City property described as being a
tract of land containing 3,741.41 square feet (0.08589 of an
acre) more or less, being the east one-half of that section
of the former South Buena Vista Avenue between Tinaja Street
and the west right-of-way line of Highway 83, also known as
the 2700 block of South Buena Vista Avenue situated in the
Eastern Division, City of Laredo, Webb County, Texas. (City
Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-066.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. 97-O-067 Ordinance approving a contract with the Texas Department of
Health and budget in the amount of $256,499.00 for the
HIV/STD Ryan White Care Consortium Project of the City of
Laredo Health Department for the period beginning April 1,
1997, through March 31, 1998; and increase revenue line item
226-0000-323-4051 from $0 to $256,499.00 and expenditure
line item 226-6060 from $0 to $256,499.00; and authorizing
the City Manager to execute the contract. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-067.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. 97-O-068 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97 annual
budget by increasing the general fund revenues by
$1,325,000.00 and appropriating $1,325,000.00 to the
Telecommunications Department be used to allocate a
$125,000.00 line item for administrative reserves fund and
$1,200,000.00 for reimbursable expenses in the reserve line
item and authorizing the City Manager to implement said
budget. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #97-O-068.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
V. RESOLUTIONS
6. 97-R-038 Supporting the naming of the new Federal Courthouse in
Brownsville after Judge Reynaldo G. Garza.
(Sponsored by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez Jr.)
Motion to approve Resolution #97-R-038.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VI. MOTIONS
7. Approval of a professional services contract with Dr. Maurice Click in
the amount not to exceed $12,720.00, to serve as the Health
Department's Health Authority under Section 121.033 of the Texas
Health and Safety Code, for a period of April 1, 1997, through March
31, 1998. A total of four (4) local physicians responded to the
City's request for interest statements.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. Approval of a professional services contract with Dr. Winder Vasquez
in the amount not to exceed $12,000.00, to serve as TB Elimination
Program Clinician services and Dr. Benson Huang in the amount not to
exceed $9,000.00 to serve as TB Jail Program Clinician to provide
professional services to clients of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning April 1, 1997, through March 31,
1998.
A total of three (3) local physicians responded to the City's request
for interest statements.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, Union Metal Corporation, DeSoto,
Texas, in the amount of $24,140.00, for the purchase of traffic signal
mast arms for the following intersections: Lyon & Monterrey, Taylor
and McPherson, Chihuahua and McPherson, Heritage and Hwy 59. Union
Metal has been the lowest bidder for the past two years, there is a
26% average cost increase from last year purchase. Funding is
available in Capital Improvement Fund and CDBG Fund Accounts.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. Award of contract to the SOLE BIDDER, Naztec, Inc., Sugar Land, Texas
in the amount of $55,200.00 for the purchase of four Traffic
Controller Cabinets for the following intersections: Lyon and
Monterrey, Taylor and McPherson, Chihuahua and McPherson and
Washington and Main. A comparable Traffic Control unit purchased last
year $10,399.00. However, due to the upgrading of the communication
software and the wireless communication equipment for monitoring of
intersections from the Traffic Central Office increase by 25% this
year. Funding is available in Capital Improvement Fund Account and
CDBG Fund Accounts. A total of four (4) bids were received for this
commodity.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. Authorizing the City Manager to amend the City's contract with Parsons
Brinckerhoff Quade & Douglas, Inc. for Environmental Assessment
Services (EA) associated with the Laredo Northwest International
Bridge (Fourth Bridge) and connecting roadways at an increased labor
cost of $13,808.00 plus expenses for conceptual engineering work
related to the study of F.M. 3464 alignment alternatives 3 and 4. The
third alternative entails using F.M. 3464 and a realigned F.M. 3464 as
one-way pairs from I.H. 35 up to and including the bridge. The fourth
alternative involves the alignment of F.M. 3464 between the existing
roadway and that originally proposed to be constructed 1000 feet
south. The City is obligated to consider all comments received and to
study all possible alternatives before environmental clearance can be
granted. Contract price will increase from $99,618.00 plus expenses
to $113,426.00 plus expenses.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
12. Presentation regarding the selection of an artist for the design,
production, and delivery of bronze sculptures for placement at the new
International Airport terminal phase I and II.
Motion to select Armando Hinojosa as the artist.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Alvarado joined the meeting at this time, 5:38 p.m.
13. Presentation regarding an update of the Laredo Rail-Highway Crossing
Safety Plan.
Marina Sukup, Director or Planning, made the presentation before the
council.
The Laredo Highway-Rail Crossing Safety Plan ("Plan") evaluated the
104 at-grade rail crossings located within the urbanized area as a
congestion management project, recognizing the effects of rail
congestion which affects the movement of international freight, as
well as the impact on vehicular mobility. Texas leads the nation in
rail crossing accidents in Webb County is second only to Harris County
(Houston) in the number of such accidents in Texas.
The Plan which was adopted in October, 1995 needs revision. The
following are factors that contribute to the need to review the plan:
1. The northeast Mexico concession was awarded by the Texas Mexican
Railway/KCS and TMN to form the TFM line. As a result of this award,
the Union Pacific Railroad has deferred its plan for the construction
of a new rail bridge in North Laredo. When originally proposed, this
bridge would have diverted approximately 80% of the rail traffic
entering Mexico from the "Laredo yard".
2. The volume of rail traffic passing through Laredo/Nuevo
Laredo has continued to increase. The Tex Mex anticipates that the
number of its trains will increase from six to twenty daily.
3. Business in and around the Santa Maria run-around line continues to
have serious problems with blockages and use of this line for storage.
In compliance with the Plan, major improvements have either been made
or are in progress for both railroads as follows:
a. The UPRR has relocated its repair shop to the Port of Laredo
eliminating the need to break the trains to pull out defective cars.
The Tex Mex proposes to do the same at the time it relocates switching
operations east of the city limits.
b. A number of tracks have been removed by the UPRR between Garza and
Jefferson. This has permitted the reconstruction of the Sanchez
Street crossing, which has been recommended for eventual closure.
Sanchez Street lies approximately equidistant between Scott Street and
Jefferson Street, and it is recommended that Hidalgo Street and
Gonzalez Street be consolidated with the Sanchez Street crossing and
Scott Street with the proviso that would affect when and only when
there is the extension of Eagle Pass over to Santa Cleotilde and that
there is a road in effect giving the residents an alternative with
grate separated crossing. Sanchez has had one of the highest accident
rates of any of the Laredo crossing. TxDot has committed $165,000 for
signals at this location during the next fiscal period. Other signal
improvements proposed for Uniroyal Road, Main and Corpus Christi.
c. Consolidated Examination Stations (CES) are in progress for both
railroads, which will eliminate delays for customs and immigration
inspections which has created major delays in the lower yard for many
years.
Larry Fields, President of Tex Mex Railway, addressed Cm. Bruni's
points where he states he has been trying to get something done at
Arkansas Street for three years. He stated that part of the school
road is on Tex Mex property, it is private property, the city doesn't
pay anything for that and who is liable? He concluded by saying that
they are willing to work with the city and they would prefer to sell
that property to the city at a very low rate, then it would be the
city's road and the city would have to maintain it and take care of
it. They would have to install a barrier to protect Tex Mex Railroad.
They have some crossings that they are willing to give the city, they
need help from the city and that they city try to get some ISTEA funds
and do some grate separations, they want to work jointly with the city
and have these things done.
14. Presentation of the Downtown Circulation Plan.
Marina Sukup, Director of Planning, made the presentation stating that
this is the final report. She reported that the study recommended for
13 immediate strategies, 8 interim strategies, and 3 long term
strategies. Some of these strategies were:
Immediate Strategies:
- Conversion of Convent to one-way operation from Bridge #1 to Grant
- Restrict parking and install signing on Santa Ursula and San Dario
from Victoria to Bridge #2
- Enforcement
- Installation of signal at the intersection of Washington and Main
- Improvements around Intermodal Terminal
Interim Strategies:
- Conversion of Washington to two-way operation to include
channelization devices
- Improve Scott and Santa Maria from IH 35 to Bridge #1
- Relocation of Toll plaza on Bridge #1
Long Term Strategies:
- Extend San Francisco to the existing Import Lot
- Fixed guideway recommendations
- Parking Garage
15. Presentation concerning "Operation Blitz".
Phyllis Colon, Tax Assessor/Collector, made the presentation report
before the council, as follows:
In October of 1996 the Tax Department launched two programs to locate
unauthorized utility users. Since 1994 there had been numerous
indicators that there were customers using water and having their
garbage picked up without paying for the services.
The first program began in October 1996, and is known as "The Non-
Deposit Program". This consist of locating meters from a computer
report that are inactive on the system but are registering use of
water. This is a continuous problem where people turn on their own
water frequently after they have been disconnected for non-payment or
when they move into a place. At the beginning of this program Mrs.
Chita Deleza, Billing Supervisor confirmed that a computer listing
existed of accounts which were inactive in 1990 when the records were
transferred to the AS400 and the billing process was moved to the Tax
Department from the Utility Department. The 6,528 accounts on the
list were never added to the system. This was brought to the
attention of Mr. Florencio Pena, City Manager, who authorized hiring
temporary help to research the records, locate the meters and correct
the problem. This 1990 listing became known as "Operation Blitz" and
has top priority.
Many of the original 6,500 accounts has already been added to the
computer. As of March 15th, about 60% of the list has been completed
with 2,827 account identified and checked out in the filed. Of these
accounts the break down is as follows:
1,229 Locations were in the computer showing no account but
had an active meter with no deposit and was not being
billed.
356 Active meters with no location or meter in computer.
90 Need further investigation and are pending.
86 Meter with no number (may have been stolen units).
250 Empty lots with no meter.
17 Direct illegal connections
ACTION TAKEN:
594 Meters were removed
531 Meters were locked down
RESULT
979 Customers have signed contracts, started paying past due
amounts and are now on the system.
In addition customers will be clearing up accounts and
will become effective.
The minimum financial impact of the 979 accounts now activated for one
year at residential rates are:
Water $ 88,110.00
Sewer 103,382.46
Garbage 82,382.00
St/Fed Mandates 49,928.00
NPDS 8,811.00
Sales 6,578.88
____________
$339,045.34 (as of Feb.1997)
Administrative Fees Collected $ 68,900.00 (This include the Non-
Deposits accounts also)
The Non-Deposit program has identified 2,067 accounts using active
meters not being billed form October 1st to February 28th.
620 Meters were locked down
695 Meters were removed
752 Pending
A new locking device has made it much more difficult to open meters.
The Department has 1,050 locks and has ordered 4,000 more.
The largest percent of the accounts inspected are commercial
properties and rental units. In many cases the owners produced leases
showing the tenant is responsible for the utilities. In other cases
the tenants have told us the water was on and the landlord or agent
told them the utilities were paid. In these cases the lease is often
silent on the issue or there is no bill documentation. Other
customers have said they were waiting for someone to bill them and did
not know they should pay for their water. Many of these people had
turned on their own water or purchased a home where the builder had
left the water turned on.
A large percent of the Non-Deposits are people who turned on their
water after they were disconnected for non-payment. Some of these
have repeatedly turned on their own water. Some of the builders and
plumbers are part of the problem.
The largest bill for past consumption was $26,000.00. The majority of
these accounts are for people under 40 years old.
She concluded by saying that they work with those people who need to
break down their payment into two or three months.
Mr. Pena stated that once we are caught up with this "Blitz" program
and after all accounts are identified, that we may want to re-evaluate
our administrative charge for this
unauthorized connections. He added that once we have this program
complete they will come back with a recommendation.
Cm. Guerra stated one of his biggest concerns was the $200.00
administrative fee that has been charged to some customers. He wants
that staff, the City Manager, the Legal Department and the Tax
Department to take a look at the 1975 ordinance that we now have
because it does needs revising.
Mr. Steven Wright, Wright Realtors, stated that the problem here is
the $200.00 "Administrative Fee" that is being assessed. He stated
that Mrs. Colon says that there has been notification, and there has
not been any notifications to individuals. Once the property is
tagged as being illegal water hookups or no security deposit, it is
automatically assessed, there is no chance for individuals to come in,
there is no notification before the $200.00 administrative fee is
implemented and hits you with it. Staff is not taking into
consideration vacant units. He asked that council consider lowering
the administrative fee from $200.00 to $25.00 when all the records are
on the charts.
16. Presentation regarding the closing of International Bridge I.
Rafael Garcia, Bridge Manager, stated that aside from the
obvious which was the inconvenience, congestions, and the honking of
horns there was very little impact since the freight and other traffic
was redistributed.
Luis Landin, Traffic Director, reported that there were minor problems
in the downtown district and that they are conduct-ing traffic counts
on two closures and will report later as to their impact.
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Chief of Police, reported that the
modification of personnel deployment resulted in a negligible increase
in overtime expenditures during the 8-day period. He suggested that
an ordinance be developed to provide fines for trucks cutting the
lines.
Rogelio Rivera, City Engineer, reported no financial impact and that
Brown & Root Engineers will be sending to them a proposal recommending
the strengthening of concrete slabs and will identify the funds for
contracting in April.
17. Presentation regarding the method to be used in assisting the Texas
Department of Housing and Community Affairs on Saturdays for the month
of April to aid in the Colonias "Clean-up" effort.
Ms. Nelda Barrera, Field Representative for the Texas Depart-ment of
Housing and Community Affairs, asked for the City's support for the
Sundays in April.
Florencio Pe¤a, City Manager, stated that the $1.25 charge will be
charged to the commercial entity bringing the trash.
VIII. COMMUNICATIONS
a. Cm. Guerra spoke of the $50.00 limit imposed to Mexican citizens on
purchases from the U.S. He explained that we are losing the
commercial war with the neighboring countries (Mexico and Canada) and
the efforts of our representatives in Washington have seemed be
ineffective and at worst, non-existent. Cm. Guerra wants a
resolution in
support of this efforts.
Motion to prepare a resolution for the next council meeting in
support of this legislation on behalf of the City Council of the City
of Laredo and that we send our resolutions to our State
Representatives, State Senators, National League of Cities, U.S.
Conference of Mayors, and advising other border communities of the
action taken, also solicit similar resolutions from the Laredo
Chamber of Commerce and the Laredo Development Foundation.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
b. Cw. Montalvo publicly congratulated Cm. Bruni for bringing the
Tecolotes back to West Martin Field.
IX. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
18. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Saul N. Ramirez Jr.
1. Discussion concerning the city's participation in the Presidents
Summit For Americas Future.
Mayor Ramirez informed Council that he had received an invitation
Retired Army General Colin Powell to participate in the President's
Summit for America's Future to be held on April 27th - 29th. He
stated that various local organizations such as Communities In
Schools, Boys Girls
Club, etc. would be attending and he wanted some city departments who
are interested to attend.
Cm. Alvarado stated that he would be glad to offer his service and
participate in this event.
Motion to proceed with the invitation.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible action concerning the sale of nine Chevrolet
Caprice replacement vehicles to our Sister Cities of Nuevo Laredo,
Tamps., (six), and Cienega de Flores, N.L., (three).
Motion to approve the sale of the vehicles for the followings prices:
1994 vehicles - $2,400.00 ...... 1/2 -> $1,200.00
1993 " - 2,500.00 ...... " 1,250.00
1992 " - 1,900.00 ...... " 950.00
A motion was made to amend the above sales prices by cutting them in
half. The second to the motion accepted the amendment.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
B. Requests by Councilmember Jose R. Perez, Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action concerning the placement of an alarm
system or burglar bars at the Santo Nino Branch Library.
Motion to instruct staff to proceed with acquiring costs.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
C. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. "Poncho" Casso
1. Appointing Ed Quiroga as my nominee to the Ad Hoc Ordinance Review
Committee.
Motion appointing Ed Quiroga to the Ad Hoc Ordinance Review
Committee.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Requests by Councilmember Cecilia May Moreno
1. Appointing David Hernandez as my nominee to the Laredo Beautification
Board.
Motion appointing David Hernandez to the Laredo Beautification Board.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
19. Public hearing concerning the application by Sonat Exploration
Company, authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for Gas
Extraction to Sonat Exploration Co. on 2.75 acres out of Porcion 39,
Abstract 250, as further described by metes and bounds on attached
Exhibit "A", located west of Hwy. 83 and south of Santa Rita
Subdivision. Known as the Johnson No. 3 Well. The Planning and
Zoning Commission recommended approval of the Special Use Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a Special Use Permit for gas
extraction facility to Sonat Exploration Co. for a 2.75 acre tract out
of Porcion 39, Abstract 250, as further described by metes and bounds
on attached Exhibit "A", located west of Hwy 83 and south of Santa
Rita subdivision, known as the Johnson No. 3 Well, of the City of
Laredo; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
20. Public hearing concerning the application by Sofia Benavides, amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 4,
5, 6, 7 and 8, Block 1294, Eastern Division, located at 2214 Blaine
Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-1 (Limited
Business District); providing for publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lots 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, Block 1294, Eastern Division, located
at 2214 Blaine Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to B-1
(Limited Business District); providing for publication and effective
date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
21. Public hearing concerning the application by Vaq-'94, Ltd, amending
the zoning ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 103.41
acres out of Porcion 31, Abstract 3166, located South of S.H. 359,
approximately 3,500 feet East of the Bob Bullock Loop from R-1A
(Single Family Reduced Area District) and B-3 (Community Business
District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District), planned unit
development, providing for publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 103.41 acres out of Porcion 31, Abstract 3166, located South
of S. H. 359, approximately 3,500 feet East of the Bob Bullock Loop
from R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District) and B-3 (Community
Business District) to R-1A
(Single Family Reduced Area District), planned unit development,
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
22. Public hearing concerning the application by Carroll Summers/Ernest
Bruni for Alta Mar Ltd. amending the zoning ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning 28.47 acres out of Porcion 31, Abstract
3116 and 298, located North of S.H. 359, approximately 5,000 feet East
of the Bob Bullock Loop from R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area
District) to R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District), planned unit
development, providing for publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 28.47 acres out of Porcion 31, Abstract 3116 and 298, located
North of S.H. 359, approximately 5,000 feet East of the Bob Bullock
Loop from R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area District) to R-1A (Single
Family Reduced Area District), planned unit development, providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Bruni
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
23. Public hearing concerning the application by Jesse Medellin, amending
the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1,
Block 88, Eastern Division, located at 1113 Monterrey Avenue, from R-3
(Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Business District);
providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and Zoning
Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 1, Block 88, Eastern Division, located at 1113 Monterrey
Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential District) to B-1 (Limited Business
District); providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
24. Public hearing concerning the application by Juan Antonio Rodriguez
and Angelica M. Rodriguez, amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the
City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 2, Block 623, Eastern Division, located
at 1104 Willow Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-3
(Mixed Residential District); providing for publication and effective
date. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the
zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lot 2, Block 623, Eastern Division, located at 1104 Willow
Street, from M-1 (Light Manufacturing District) to R-3 (Mixed
Residential District); providing for publication and effective date.
The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone
change.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Perez
25. Public hearing concerning the application by Mr. and Mrs. Jesus
Maldonado, authorizing the issuance of a conditional use permit for
antique sales on Lots 1, 2, and 3, Block 831, Eastern Division,
located at 1501 Clark Boulevard; providing for publication and
effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of a Conditional Use Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a conditional use permit for
antique sales on Lots 1, 2, and 3, Block 831, Eastern Division,
located at 1501 Clark Boulevard; providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing the property owner, spoke in favor of the
zone change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
26. Public hearing concerning the application by Grupo V and Antonio Pena,
authorizing the issuance of a conditional use permit for heavy
automotive sales on Lots 5, 7 and 8, Block 605, Western Division,
located at 2619 San Dario Avenue; providing for publication and
effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of the Conditional Use Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a conditional use permit for
heavy automotive sales on Lots 5, 7 and 8, Block 605, Western
Division, located at 2619 San Dario Avenue; providing for publication
and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
Ron Whitehawk, representing Grupo V, hoped council will concur with
the zone change.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Moreno
27. Public hearing concerning the application by Merlin Development Co.,
Ltd., amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 14.033 acres out of Porcion 22, also known as the San Isidro
Ranch, located west of McPherson Road and south of the United Day
School, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-1 (Limited Business
District) and R-O (Residential/Office District). The Planning and
Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 14.033 acres out of Porcion 22, San Isidro Ranch, located
west of McPherson Road and south of the United Day School Site, from
AG (Agricultural District) to B-1 (Limited Business District) and R-O
(Residential/Office District) providing for publication and effective
date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
28. Public hearing concerning the application by Jamro, Ltd., amending the
Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by rezoning 50.978 acres
out of Porcion 21 and 22, San Isidro Ranch, located on McPherson Road,
West of the United Day School site from AG (Agricultural District) to
R-1 (Single Family Residential District), providing for publication
and effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends
approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 50.978 acres out of Porcion 21 and 22, San Isidro Ranch,
located on McPherson Road, West of the United Day School site from AG
(Agricultural District) to R-1 (Single Family Residential District),
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
Harry Jewitt explained the plan and requested approval.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
29. Public hearing concerning the application by Noelia Pedraza,
authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a Child Day
Care Center, on Lots 544 and 545, Block 30, Section 2-A, Del Mar
Hills, located at 401 Lindenwood Drive, providing for publication and
effective date. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommends the
approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a
Child Day Care Center, on Lots 544 and 545, Block 30, Section 2-A, Del
Mar Hills, located at 401 Lindenwood Drive, providing for publication
and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Guerra
30. Public hearing concerning the application by the Estate of Rogelio L.
Cabello DBA Cabello Del Norte Rentals, authorizing the issuance of a
Conditional Use Permit for truck/trailer rentals on Lot 8, Block 977,
Western Division, located at 3804 Santa Ursula Avenue. The Planning
and Zoning Commission recommends the approval of the Conditional Use
Permit.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for
truck/trailer rentals on Lot 8, Block 977, Western Division, located
at 3804 Santa Ursula Avenue; providing for publication and effective
date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cm. Alvarado
31. Public hearing amending Section 24.62.5 of the Laredo Land Development
Code of the City of Laredo providing for freestanding signs; amending
Section 24.82.4 providing for special use permits for freestanding
signs; creating Section 24.93.10 relating to special use permits for
freestanding signs; providing for publication and effective date. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommends the approval of Proposal I.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Section 24.62.5 of the Laredo Land Development Code
of the City of Laredo providing for freestanding signs; amending
Section 24.82.4 providing for special use permits for freestanding
signs; creating Section 24.93.10 relating to special use permits for
freestanding signs; providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
Mr. Keith Selman from the Planning Department explained the
recommendation of Proposal 1.
Cm. Bruni wanted to know if it addresses the abutting landowners and
requested that this ordinance address this concern. That the adjacent
landowners be notified by mail that a sign will be put up.
There was no public input.
Motion to that:
(1) for properties located adjacent to Federal, Interstate, U.S. and
State Highways: 200 square feet for the first 100 feet of street
frontage, plus 1.5 sq. ft. per linear foot of street frontage over 100
ft. up to a maximum of 1,200 sq. ft., provided the total allowable
area of on-premise signage shall be reduced by one sq. ft. for each
sq. ft. of free-standing off-premise signage located on the same
premise (#97-O-21).
(2) for properties not located adjacent to Federal, Interstate, U.S.,
and State Highways: 200 sq. ft. However, existing, in-use signage in
excess of these requirements may remain and be replaced as necessary.
(3) additional provisions for freestanding signage in B-4,
M-1, and M-2 zoning districts: all signs must be situated at least 200
feet from the front of the nearest residentially zoned and used lot.
(amended Ord. #97-O-21, 1/27/97). However, following a public
hearing, the Zoning Board of Adjustments shall have authority to grant
a variance of up to 25% of the distance and size requirements
established herein.
The second concurred to all 3 amendments proposed by Cm. Guerra.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to close the public hearing and table and send back to P&Z and
staff for review and bring back at a later date.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Public hearing amending Section 24.62.5 of the Laredo Land Development
Code of the City of Laredo to provide for communication towers and
antennas; amending Section 24.63.2 to provide for allowable zoning
districts and special use permits for communication towers and
antennas; amending Section 24.65.13 to delete provisions providing for
radio and television antennas; creating Section 24.93.10 relating to
special use permits for communication towers and antennas; amending
appendix "A" establishing definitions accordingly; providing for
publication and effective date. The Telecommunications Commission has
recommended approval of this ordinance as well as the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Section 24.62.5 of the Laredo Land Development Code
of the City of Laredo to provide for communication towers and
antennas; amending Section 24.63.2 to provide for allowable zoning
districts and special use permits for communication towers and
antennas; amending Section 24.65.13 to delete provisions providing for
radio and television antennas; creating Section 24.93.10 relating to
special use permits for communication towers and antennas; amending
appendix "A" establishing definitions accordingly; providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
Keith Selman from the Planning Department made the presentation before
the council.
Larry Dovalina, Telecomunications Officer, gave a report on the
background of this ordinance.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
33. Public hearing amending Section 24.63.2 of the Laredo Land Development
Code of the City of Laredo by allowing the establishment of multi-
family residential uses in R-O (Residential/Office Districts);
providing for publication and effective date. The Planning and
Zoning Commission recommends approval of the zone change.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Section 24.63.2 of the Laredo Land Development Code
of the City of Laredo by allowing the establishment of multi-family
residential uses in R-O (Residential/Office Districts); providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
34. Public hearing concerning adoption of the City of Laredo International
Airport Land Use Master Plan and Development Strategy. The Airport
Advisory Board has reviewed the plan extensively and adopted it as a
development guideline pending adoption by City Council. The City of
Laredo Traffic Safety Advisory Board recommended approval of the
proposed street network. The Planning and Zoning Commission has
recommended adoption of the plan.
97-R-035 Resolution adopting the City of Laredo International Airport
Land Use Master Plan and Development Strategy.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 8 Against: Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Mayor Ramirez went on record to incorporate a reusing policy on trees
and transplant those 5 trees.
Florencio Pe¤a, City Manager, stated that they will try to design the
road to avoid the trees.
Motion to close the public hearing and approve Resolution #97-R-035.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Adjournment time: 8:30 P.M.
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 24 ARE
TRUE COMPLETE AND CORRECT PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON THE
24TH DAY OF MARCH, 1997. A COPY IS ON FILE AT THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY