CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M97-R-21 JULY 7, 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 Jr. led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
SAUL N. RAMIREZ, JR., MAYOR
JOSE R. PEREZ, COUNCILMEMBER, DISTRICT I
LOUIS H. BRUNI, " , DISTRICT II
ALFONSO I. "PONCHO" CASSO, " , DISTRICT III
ELISEO VALDEZ, " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
MARIO GEORGE ALVARADO, " , DISTRICT VII
CONSUELO MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR., CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, CITY MANAGER
JAIME L. FLORES, CITY ATTORNEY
ABSENCES:
Motion to Cw. Moreno due to an out-of-town commitment.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso not present.
Motion to dispense with the regular order of business and move
up items D(1), (a) - Communications, A(1), #34 and #67 jointly,
F(1) and #66.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso came joined the meeting at 5:40 p.m.
IV. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
2. Approving an assignment from Aero Center, Inc. to the Laredo
National Bank of that airport lease agreement for hanger
#142, buildings #144, #147, and #148 approved by Ordinance
No. 94-O-001 dated January 3, 1994 and authorizing the City
Manager to execute said Consent of Assignment.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
3. Approving an assignment from Aero Center, Inc. to the
International Bank of Commerce and Sanchez-O'Brien Oil and
Gas Corporation, a joint venture, of that lease agreement
for an approximate 1.001 acre tract of improved land
approved by Ordinance No. 95-O-154 dated August 7, 1995, and
authorizing the City Manager to execute said Consent of
Assignment.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
4. Authorizing the City of Laredo City council to accept the
assignment of a leased contract issued to Panorama
Broadcasting for the use of an area of land for the
construction of a television station tower and authorizing
the City Manager to take such steps as are necessary to
execute the document to finalize the transaction.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
5. Authorizing the City Manager to execute Quitclaim Deeds, to
the following seven grantors, the City of Laredo's interest
to the Mineral Rights acquired through the conveyance of
seven tracts of additional right-of-way for the Mines Road
Widening Project. Said seven tracts being Parcel Nos. 29,
42, 43, 53, 54, 55, and 57; being situated in Webb County,
Texas, and providing for an effective date.
PARCEL 29 (Santos Costilla and San Juanita Costilla,
original grantors as per warranty deed to the City of
Laredo, recorded in volume 48, Pages 023-024, real property
records, Webb County, Texas). A 1.1006 acre tract being out
of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, original grantee, Abstract
280, also being out of a 10.0 acre tract of land (Tract 2)
unrecorded 172.90 acre tract subdivision, Webb County, Texas
as conveyed by deed from Jack E. Blanco to Santos Costilla
and San Juanita Costilla as recorded in volume 13, pages 747
and 748, real property records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 42 (Venola Sanchez, Original Grantor, as per warranty
deed to the City of Laredo, recorded in volume 23, pages
233-234, real property records Webb County, Texas) - A
1.0080 acre tract being out of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez,
Original Grantee, Abstract 280, also being out of a 4.4292
acre tract (Tract 1) as conveyed by deed from Rodolfo
Salinas, Jr., to Venola Sanchez as recorded in volume 517,
pages 259-265, deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 43 (Ernestina B. Wolter, Original Grantor as per
warranty deed to the City of Laredo, recorded in volume 21,
pages 771-772, real property records, Webb County, Texas) -A
1.5225 acre tract being out of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez,
Original Grantee, Abstract 280, also being out of a 5.3614
acre tract (Tract 14) as conveyed by deed from Fernando
Babiak and wife, Elva Rosa Babiak to Ernestina B. Wolter as
recorded in volume 572, Pages 97-101, deed records, Webb
County, Texas.
PARCEL 53 (Elias Herrera and wife, Olga F. Herrera,
Original Grantors as per warranty deed to the City of
Laredo, recorded in volume 160, pages 122-123, real property
records, Webb County, Texas). A 1.3167 acre tract being out
of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez, Original Grantee, Abstract
280, also being out of a 6.4119 acre tract (Tract 30) as
conveyed by deed from Rodolfo Salinas, Jr., to Elias Herrera
and Olga P. Herrera as recorded in volume 517, pages 410-
417, deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 54 (C.C.M. Financial Inc., Original Grantor as per
warranty deed to the City of Laredo, recorded in volume 73,
page 881, real property records, Webb County, Texas). An
1.3186 acre tract being out of Porcion 10, Tomas Sanchez,
Original Grantee, Abstract 280, also being out of a 6.6788
acre tract (Tract 31) as conveyed by deed from Edward M.
Pina, a single man to Carlos Nelli Marsicano, et al, as
recorded in volume 1341, pages 5-8, deed records of Webb
County, Texas.
PARCEL 55 (Agustin Meza, Jr., and wife, Vilma Meza, Original
Grantors as per warranty deed to the City of Laredo,
recorded in volume 22, page 175, real property records, Webb
County, Texas). Am 1.3186 acre tract being out of Porcion
10, Tomas Sanchez, Original Grantee, Abstract 2280, also
being out of a 7.2909 acre tract (Tract 32) as conveyed by
deed from Rodolofo Salinas, Jr. to Mr. Agustin Meza Jr.,
and Vilma S. Meza as recorded in volume 517, Pages 426-433,
deed records, Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 57 (Carlos Casiano, Jr., David Casiano, Ramon
Casiano, Demetrios Casiano, Tomas Casiano, Daniel Casiano,
Raquel Casiano Elliott, Guadalupe Casiano Calvitt, Reynaldo
Mireles and Manuel Mireles, individually, and as independent
executor, Original Grantors as per warranty deed recorded i
Volume 100, Page 424, Real Property Records, Webb County,
Texas) - A2.8669 of an acre tract being out of Porcion 10,
Tomas Sanchez , Original Grantee, Abstract 280, also being
out of a 5.1272 acre tract (Tract 69) as conveyed by deed
from Rodlolfo Salinas, Jr., to Carlos Casiano and wife,
Julia Casiao, as recorded in volume 589, pages 7-3-605, deed
records, Webb County, Texas.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
6. Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to revert a tract of land containing 20,380.31
square feet, more or less, out of the Mines Road (FM 1472)
R.O.W. to its original owner, but retaining it as a Drainage
& Utility Easement. Said tract of land being out of a 5.9755
acre tract of land situated in parts of Porcion Nos. 17 and
18, Webb County, Texas, and being generally described below
and more particularly described by metes and bounds and
providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
7. Amending Ordinance No. 95-O-299 by changing Exhibit A;
thereby authorizing the City Manager to execute database
access agreements with any requestor of online access to
inspect city property tax records database via computer
modem; contract term to change so all will end on September
30, 2002 and the annual maintenance, processing,
programming, and data manipulation fee will be eliminated; a
one time equipment fee is required for the cost of the
equipment; providing for an effective date.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
8. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a ground lease with
Alderete Communications, Inc., a Texas Corporation, for the
erection, maintenance, and operation of a skeletal steel
guyed communications tower and associated equipment building
located at the Jefferson Street Water Complex.
1. Lease term will be fifteen (15) years commencing August
XX, 1997 and ending August XX, 2011 (Date will be
determined after second reading of this ordinance).
2. Rent will be payable in advance; first year's rent is
$8,676.00, and adjusted annually according to changes in
the consumer price index.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
V. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading of ordinances #97-O-119,
#97-O-129, #97-O-130, #97-O-131, #97-O-132, #97-O-133,
#97-O-133, #97-O-134, #97-O-135, #97-O-136, #97-O-137,
#97-O-138, #97-O-139, #97-O-140, #97-O-141, #97-O-142,
#97-O-143, #97-O-144, #97-O-145, #97-O-146, #97-O-147,
#97-O-148, #97-O-149, and #97-O-150.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 97-O-119 Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning the west 46.3 feet
of Lot 3, Block 1059, Eastern Division, located at
1915 Norton Street from R-3 (Mixed Residential
District) to B-3 (Community Business District);
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 97-O-129 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute
all necessary documents to effectively convey the
"Surface Only" of Lot 2, Block 2165-A, Eastern
Division, as per replat recorded in Volume 16, Page
93, of the Webb County Plat Records, City of
Laredo, County of Webb, Texas, also known to be
located on the 2400 block of Diaz Street to Jesus
Javier Martinez and providing for an effective
date. Said property is being sold to the highest
bidder as accepted by City Council pursuant to
public sale of this property on May 28, 1997.
(City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 97-O-130 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute
all necessary documents to effectively convey fee
simple title to Cesar J. Cabello and Amparo A.
Cabello for the sale of the "Surface Only" of a
0.3543 of an acre (15,433.46 square feet) tract of
land being out of and a part of the former Martin
Avenue between Laredo and Guadalupe Streets, also
known as the 1200 block of Martin Avenue and
providing for effective date. Said property being
sold to the highest bidder as accepted by City
Council pursuant to public sale of this property on
May 28, 1997. (City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 97-O-131 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning Lots 30 and 31,
Block 12, Las Americas Subdivision, Unit II,
located at 2018 and 2020 Durango Avenue, from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to R-2 (Multi-
Family District); providing for an effective date
and publication. (Jose R. Perez Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 97-O-132 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 15.57 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds, located
southwest of the intersection of Santa Barbara
Street and Avenida Los Presidentes, from R-1
(Single Family Residential District) to R-1A
(Single Family Reduced Area District); providing
for an effective date and publication.
(Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 97-O-133 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 10.670 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds, located west
of the Bob Bullock Loop and directly north of the
Laredo International Airport from R-1 (Single
Family Residential District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District); providing for an effective
date and publication. (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
15. 97-O-134 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 108.4 acres, as
further described by metes and bounds, located east
of the Bob Bullock Loop and directly north of Lake
Casa Blanca, from AG (Agricultural District) to R-1
(Single Family Residential District); providing for
an effective date and publication.
(Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
*NOTE: This ordinance was presented to council with
correction on acreage and given a new Ordinance
number (#97-O-170) on August 4, 1997.
16. 97-O-135 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 67.7 acres as
further described by metes and bounds, located west
of McPherson Road, north of the Bob Bullock Loop
from AG (Agricultural District) to M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District); providing for an effective
date and publication. (Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
17. 97-O-136 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 10, Block 864,
Western Division, located at 1518 Burnside Street
from B-1 (Limited Business District) to R-3 (Mixed
Residential District); providing for an effective
date and publication. (Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. 97-O-137 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by revoking a Special Use Permit
for a manufactured housing park, Ordinance No.
93-O-200 on 21.5921 acres out of Porcion 19,
Abstract 591, as further described by metes and
bounds located west of FM 1472, across from the old
municipal airport; providing for an effective date
and publication. (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. 97-O-138 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning 21.5921 acres out of
Porcion 19, Abstract 591, as further described by
metes and bounds located west of FM 1472, across
from the old municipal airport, from M-1 (Light
Manufacturing District) to R-1 (Single Family
Residential District); providing for an effective
date and publication. (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. 97-O-139 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 8 and the north
1/2 of Lot 6, Block 485, Western Division, located
at 309 Park Street from B-1 (Limited Business
District) to R-O (Residential/Office District);
providing for an effective date and publication.
(Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. 97-O-140 Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of
the City of Laredo by rezoning Lot 1A Block 681,
Western Division, located at 2302 Iturbide Street
from R-2 (Multi-Family District) to R-O
(Residential/Office District); providing for an
effective date and publication.
(Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. 97-O-141 Ordinance amending Section 24-82.4.1 of the Laredo
Land Development Code relating to permitted
dimensions of on-premises free-standing signs;
restricting large scale, on premise, signage to
Federal and State Highways in B-4, M-1, and M-2
Districts; deleting provisions requiring all one
face signs must be situated at least 150 feet from
the nearest Residential District and all two face
signs must be situated at least 350 feet from the
nearest Residential District; providing for
publication and effective date. (Jose A. Guerra)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. 97-O-142 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-1997
budget in the amount of $20,479.00 for additional
salary and fringe benefit costs for six task force
investigators in the Multi-Agency Financial
Disruption Task Force awarded by the Office of
National Drug Control Policy for the period of July
1, 1996 and ending June 30, 1997; providing for
publication and effective date. (Jose A. Guerra)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. 97-O-143 Ordinance amending City of Laredo's 1996-1997
budget in the amount of $1,082,467.00. Of this
amount, $711,562.00 is grant funds, with the City
designating $370,905.00 in matching funds for a
grant from the Criminal Justice Division for Multi-
Agency Narcotics Task Force for the period of June
1, 1997 through May 31, 1998 and authorizing the
City Manager to sign any and all documents
pertaining to this grant application; providing for
publication and effective date.
(Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. 97-O-144 Ordinance amending the City of Laredo's 1996-97
annual budget in the amount of $325,000.00, for a
grant awarded by the Texas Water Development Board
to develop a Flood Protection Plan for the Chacon
Watershed; the composition of the $325,000.00, is
$260,000.00 from the Texas Water Development Board,
$42,500.00 Webb County, ($17,500.00 cash and
$25,000.00 in-kind), $5,000.00 from Webb County
Drainage District No. 1 and $17,500 from the City
of Laredo. The city will provide $25,000.00 in in-
kind services. (City Council)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. 97-O-145 Ordinance approving an amendment to the budget in
the amount of $24,000.00, for the Chronic Disease
Prevention Program, Breast and Cervical Cancer
Control Project (BCCCP), of the City of Laredo
Health Department for the period beginning July 1,
1996, through June 30, 1997.
(Consuelo "Chelo" Montalvo)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
27. 97-O-146 Ordinance establishing new parking meter zone
boundaries, prescribing parking meter rates and
parking meter time limits, removal of parking
meters in some areas, repealing all conflicting
ordinances, and providing for publication and
effective date. (Jose R. Perez Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. 97-O-147 Amending Ord. No. 86-O-226 and Article VIII,
Stopping, Standing or Parking of Chapter 19, Motor
Vehicles and Traffic Division 3, Violations,
Penalties, Section 19-355 of the Code of Ordinances
amending minimum penalties for violations of
Article VIII of Chapter 19 of the Code of
Ordinances, providing for publication and effective
date. (Joe A. Guerra)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. 97-O-148 Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 88-O-006, as
amended by Ordinance No. 89-O-131 which established
fares for fixed route transit service and for EL
METRO ID cards.
A. The base adult fare will increase from sixty
cents ($0.60) to seventy-five cents ($0.75).
B. The fare for children of ages 5 to 11 will
remain unchanged at 25 cents ($0.25)
C. The fare for children under 5 years of age will
continue to be free of charge.
D. The fare for students will remain the same at
thirty-five cents ($0.35). E. During peak hours
on Monday through Friday (except holidays), the
peak fare for seniors and persons with
disabilities will remain the same at ten cents
($0.10).
F. During off-peak hours, and on Saturdays, Sundays
and holidays, the fare for seniors and persons
with disabilities, and possessing a valid ID
card will remain the same at zero cents ($0.0).
G. The fare for express route service will increase
from sixty cents ($0.60) to one dollar ($1.00).
H. The charge for an initial or replacement EL
METRO ID card will remain unchanged at $2.00
I. An initial EL LIFT ID card will continue to be
free of charge.
J. The charge for a replacement EL LIFT ID card
will continue to be $2.00.
The ordinance provides for publication and an
October 1, 1997 effective date.
(As Amended) (Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. 97-O-149 Ordinance authorizing the adoption of the following
rate for paratransit Transportation Service on the
EL LIFT System.
*The fare for a one-way trip shall be $1.00
This ordinance provides for publication and an
October 1, 1997 effective date.
(AS Amended) (Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
31. 97-O-150 Ordinance continuing the City of Laredo's Juvenile
Curfew Ordinance No. 94-O-142 as amended by
Ordinance No. 96-O-030 for an additional three (3)
years starting July 18, 1997 until July 18, 2000 in
accordance with 370.002 of the Texas Local
Government Code; providing for severability;
providing for an effective date and publication.
(Jose R. Perez, Jr.)
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VI. RESOLUTIONS
32. 97-R-066 Resolution accepting a grant from the Texas Natural
Resource and Conservation (TNRCC) in the amount of
$25,000.00, to continue the operation of a
continuous air monitoring station (CAMS) by the
City of Laredo Health Department for the period
beginning September 1, 1997, through August 31,
1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. 97-R-067 Resolution accepting a grant from the University of
Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in the
amount of $5,250.00 for the Education and Training
Program of the City of Laredo Health Department for
the period beginning February 1, 1997, through
September 28, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 8 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. 97-R-068 Resolution supporting efforts to improve air
service at Laredo International Airport.
(NOTE: Action must first be initiated on item #67,
prior to the passage of this Resolution.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. 97-R-069 Accepting the donation of three parcels of land as
Dedications of Right-of-Way for the extension of
International Boulevard, from the following owners:
Mr. Gerardo G. Salinas - 0.5246 of an acre, Mr.
Leopoldo G. Benavides - 2.2903 acres, and Mr.
Leopoldo Flores -0.6108 of an acre. Said parcels
being situated between the West Meadowlands
Subdivision in the City of Laredo, Webb County,
Texas and more particularly described by metes and
bounds as follows: PARCEL 1 - Gerardo G. Salinas -
Being 0.5246 acres of land, more or less, out of
porcion 23, Abstract 283, Leonardo Sanchez,
Original Grantee, and being part of a 22.15 acre
tract conveyed to Gerardo G. Salinas by Juanita A.
Linares on 08-April-1991, as per Volume 1478, Page
307, real property records of Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 2 - Leopoldo G. Benavides - Being .2903
acres of land, more or less, out of Porcion 23,
Abstract 283, Leonardo Sanchez, Original Grantee,
and being part of a 17.38 acre tract conveyed to
Leopoldo G. Benavides by Francis M. Hanson, et al
on 11-May-1990, as per volume 143, page 425, and a
21.5747 acre tract conveyed to Leopoldo G.
Benavides by Leopoldo Salinas et ux on 01-January-
1991, as per volume 1463, Page 149, both being out
of the real property records of Webb County, Texas.
PARCEL 3 - Leopoldo Flores - Being 0.6108 acres of
land, more or less, out of Porcion 23, Abstract
283, Leonardo Sanchez, Original Grantee, and
Porcion 24, Abstract 268, Toribio Rodriguez,
Original Grantee, and being part of a 8.5013 acre
tract conveyed to Leopoldo Flores by Agapita S.
Flores on 08-May-1979, as per volume 584, page 303,
deed records of Webb County, Texas.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
36. 97-R-070 A resolution to modify and update the procedural
rules on Resolution 92-R-132 to better reflect the
duties of the Planning and Zoning Commission in
their role as the Impact Fee Advisory Committee to
the City Council.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
37. 97-R-071 Expressing the City's official intent to reimburse
costs of International Bridge System improvements
specifically, costs in connection with the design,
planning, and surveying of the Laredo N.W.
International bridge (Fourth Bridge).
(Note: Item #'s 50 and 69 should also be addressed
at this time.)
Motion to move item #50 & 69 at this time.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
38. 97-R-073 Authorizing the City of Laredo City Council to
accept assignment of the concession contract of the
Laredo Civic Center from Alfredo R. Gutierrez to
J&H Concessions; and authorizing the City Manager
to execute all necessary documents to complete this
transaction.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. MOTIONS
39. Refund of property taxes in various amounts to the following
individuals or companies:
a. Love Imports in the amount of $946.27, as a result of a
clerical error,
b. Texas Auto Service in the amount of $739.54, as a result
of a clerical error,
c. Dynair CFE Services in the amount of $1,932.92, as a
result of a value not depreciated,
d. HEB Grocery Company in the amount of $1,251.44, as a
result of a double payment.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
40. Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application to
the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Program in the amount
of $249,981.00, for second year funding of this grant for the
period of October 1, 1997, through September 30, 1998. These
monies will be used to pay for the salaries, fringe benefits,
equipment, etc., of four officers.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
41. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids for the following:
a) telephone equipment - Public Library
A tentative bid award is scheduled for August 18, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
42. Approval of the construction plans and specifications and
authorization to advertise for bids for the construction of a
60 million gallon per day intake structure at the Jefferson
Street Water Treatment Plant as per the Texas Water
Development Board Requirements. Tentative award is scheduled
for September 1, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
43. Approval of the construction plans and specifications and
authorization to advertise for bids for the construction of
68 accessible ramps at 17 intersections at San Agustin Plaza,
Bruni Plaza and Saint Peters Plaza and related access routes
to Jarvis Plaza in compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Tentative award is
scheduled for August 18, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
44. Award of a four month office supply contract to the LOW
BIDDER, Executive Office Supply, Laredo, Texas, for providing
general office supplies for all City Departments. This
contract is based on lowest bid submitted for forty-three
general office supply items most commonly used by all City
Departments. A percentage discount will also be offered from
the vendor's current catalog for general office supplies not
listed on the city's bid list. Items will be purchased on an
as needed basis. Contract pricing is 2% less than the
previous contract amount. A total of 5 bids were received.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
45. Award of an annual service contract to the LOW BIDDER, Lawn
Masters, Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $104,314.00, for
providing ground maintenance services for the Utilities
Department, the Bridge System, and the Parks Department. The
contract includes cutting cycles at all three International
Bridge locations, the water plants, booster station, the
wastewater treatment plants, storage tank locations, utility
easements, and the Clark Street median. A total of four bids
were received for this service. The contract pricing is the
same as the previous year. Funding for this contract is
available in the particular Department's Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
46. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDERS, Consolidated Electrical
Distributor, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of
$11,400.00, for the purchase of forty area light fixtures.
These will be replacements for the light fixtures currently
installed at the Market Street Tennis Court. A total of four
bids were received. Funding is available in the Parks and
Recreation Department budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDERS, Proforma, Laredo,
Texas, in the amount of $6,980.00, for the purchase of 2,000
T-shirts, and Mendes Printing, Laredo, Texas, in the amount
of $3,390.00, for the purchase of 7,000 activity books. These
activity books and T-shirts will be used in conjunction with
the educational and promotional activities of the Household
Hazardous Waste Collection Program. A total of nine bids were
received for the T-shirts, and seven were received for the
activity books. Funding is available in N.P.D.E.S. - Hazard
Household Waste Collection Program Grant Monies.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Award of contract to MZB Video Solutions, Inc., Dallas,
Texas, a State of Texas Qualified Information System Vendor,
in the amount of $13,425.00, for the purchase of a
replacement character generator for the Public Access
Division. This equipment is used to superimpose text and
images on screen. Staff is recommending purchasing this
equipment through the State of Texas -Catalogue Purchase
Program. Funding is available in the Public Access Capital
Outlay Budget.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Approval to select Design Group International to provide
consulting architectural/engineering services for surveys,
design and preparations of plans and specifications for the
Major Rehabilitation of the Market Street Tennis Courts
Project, one of the 1996-1997 Capital Improvements Projects,
and authorization for the City Manager to negotiate a fee for
professional services. Funding is available in the C.D.
Market St. Courts Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
50. Authorizing the City Manager to negotiate an amendment to the
Laredo Northwest International Bridge (Fourth Bridge)
engineering contract with Structural Engineering Associates,
Inc. (San Antonio) for an amount of approximately
$600,000.00. The current contract for field surveys for the
bridge head area is $70,450.00. This amendment will provide
for the professional services required to perform the Bridge
design, the Border Station Masterplan, and the architectural
design of the temporary Federal Facilities. Funding is
available in Bridge Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Award of a construction contract to the LOWEST BIDDER,
Libcon, Inc., Laredo, Texas, in the amount of $304,542.50,
for the Paving of International Boulevard from Salinas Key
Subdivision to the west end of Meadowlands Subdivision,
approximately 1,800 L.F. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvement Fund International Boulevard Construction
Project. A total of two bids were received for this project.
Contract time is 150 days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
52. Award of a construction contract to the LOWEST BIDDER, McLean
Construction, Inc., Killeen, Texas, in the amount of
$261,012.40, for the Alma Pierce Elementary School Drainage
and the Herradura Rancho Viejo Drainage Improvements
Projects. Funding is available in the Capital Improvement
Fund Herradura/Rancho Viejo Drainage Project. A total of two
bids were received for this project. Contract time is 90
days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
53. Award of an engineering contract to Foster Engineering
Company for an amount not to exceed $20,401.95, to provide
surveys, design and preparation of plans and specifications
for the Laredo International Bridge No. 1 Pavement
Reconstruction at Approaches, Phase I. Funding is available
in Bridge System Construction Project -Import Lot. Contract
time is 60 days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Guerra
54. Approval of amendment no. 1, an increase of $3,789.00, to the
engineering contract with Ueckert Engineering, Laredo, Texas,
for the Willow/Chacon Drainage Improvements for additional
design of a culvert and street reconstruction at Chacon
Street. Funding is available in the Drainage Improvements
Willow-Chacon Drainage. Original Contract amount was for
$5,800.00. This amendment will bring the total to $9,589.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
55. Approval of amendment no. 2, an increase of $38,616.25, to
the engineering contract with Foster Engineering, Laredo,
Texas, for additional design work for widening on both side
of Del Mar Boulevard, drainage and other related improvements
in conjunction with the widening of Del Mar Boulevard between
Springfield Avenue and McPherson Road. Funding is available
in the Capital Improvement Fund Del Mar Boulevard
Construction Project. Original Contract amount was for
$81,500.00. This amendment will bring the total to
$123,527.25.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cm. Guerra
56. Approval of amendment no. 5, an increase of $10,120.00, to
the Resident Project Representative Services Contract
(inspection services) with Hickey and Associates, Inc.,
Laredo, Texas, for the New Laredo Airport Passenger Terminal
in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Requirements to provide additional uninterrupted inspection
services. Funding is available in the Airport Construction
Fund Inspection Fees. Original Contract amount was for
$191,744.80. This amendment will bring the total to
$288,654.80.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
57. Approval of amendment no. 1, an increase of $3,336.00, to the
original contract of $42,087.00, to Naismith Engineering,
Inc., Laredo and Corpus Christi, Texas to conduct risk based
assessments of Underground Storage Tank sites, in compliance
with Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission RG-17
rules and regulations, at 4200 Bartlett (LPST ID No. 101133)
and 518 Flightline site 6, (LPST ID No. 101536) and to
complete the necessary paperwork for Texas Natural Resource
Conservation Commission reimbursement process. The increase
of $3,336.00, which was not anticipated, is due to the
additional drilling, sampling, and laboratory analysis. This
amendment will bring the total to $45,423.00. Funding is
available in Airport Fuel Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
58. Approval of change order no. 3, a decrease of $41,095.10, as
contract retainage for the deletion of the Toll Business
Management System (TBMS) portion of the construction contract
with Cubic Toll Systems, Hauppauge, New York, and acceptance
of the Laredo International Bridge Toll Collection System at
Bridge No. 1 and Bridge No. 2. Final construction contract
amount including this change order is $780,806.90. Funding is
available in Bridge System Retainage Payable Construction
Account.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
59. Approval of change order no. 3, a net decrease of $39,220.60,
to the construction contract with H.B. Zachry Company, San
Antonio, Texas for the New Laredo International Airport
Passenger Terminal and Related Airside/Landside Improvements
Phase B. This change order has an increase of $410,311.00,
for the installation of new taxiway lights and runway lights,
and a decrease (credit) of $449,531.60, is for underruns on
the runway construction. Current construction contract amount
is $11,068,510.71. Funding is available in the Airport
Construction Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
60. Approval of amendment no. 9, an increase of $38,000.00, to
the architectural/engineering (A/E) contract with Hellmuth,
Obata & Kassabaum, (HOK) Dallas, Texas, for the Re-design of
electrical and lighting system for runway 17L/35R at the
Laredo International Airport. This work was not in the
original contract with HOK. The Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) is funding approximately 90 percent of
the cost to reconstruction runway 17L/35R and approves of
this change order. Funding is available from savings in the
construction contract with H.B. Zachry, which contract is
being amended to decrease the contract amount by $39,220.60.
Original Contract amount was for $1,135,000.00. This
amendment will bring the total to $2,452,851.85.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
61. Approval of change order no. 1, an increase of $7,155.00, to
the Malinche Avenue Re-Alignment Street Improvements
construction contract with Ramex Construction Company, Inc.,
Houston, Texas, for additional traffic signal underground
conduits and to lower a 12 inch waterline. Funding is
available in the Capital Improvement Fund Malinche Re-
alingment Project. Original contract amount was for
$137,702.40. This amendment will bring the total to
$144,857.40.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
62. Authorize the sale of surplus heavy equipment through sealed
bids. The equipment will be sold to the highest bidder
exceeding the City's minimum price. The proceeds from this
sale will be used to purchase a new dozer tractor for use at
the City Landfill. The equipment to be sold include:
Description Minimum Bid
a) 1985 Caterpillar Chipspreader $ 35,000.00
b) 1985 Bros. Reclaimer $ 30,000.00
c) 1985 Furakawa Front End Loader $ 10,000.00
d) 1989 Case Front Loader $ 15,000.00
e) 1988 Caterpiller Backhoe/Loader $ 10,000.00
f) 1991 Caterpillar Scraper $150,000.00
g) 1991 Caterpillar Compactor $ 30,000.00
h) 1993 Caterpillar Bulldozer
Tractor $140,000.00
$420,000.00
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
63. Approval of specifications to bid EPA certified laboratory
services to conduct the federally mandated "Information
Collection Rule" studies on drinking water.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
64. Authorizing the transfer of residual funds from completed
projects, in various water and wastewater bond issues.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
65. Approval of change order no. 2, an increase of $138,453.00,
to the construction contract with Lambda Construction
Company, New Braunfels, Texas, for the replacement of drive
cages for sludge thickeners and rack arms which were severely
damaged by corrosion at the Jefferson Street Water Treatment
Solids Handling Improvements Project, and to add 90 calendar
days to the construction contract time. Funding is available
in the Waterworks System Fund. Original Contract amount was
for $2,451,300.00. This change order will bring the total to
$2,602,165.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VIII. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
66. Request for confirmation of Mr. Tomas Ramirez for appointment
to the position of Fire Chief with possible Executive Session
pursuant to section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code to
discuss said confirmation.
Motion to confirm Mr. Tomas Ramirez for appointment to the
position of Fire Chief.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 6 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cw. Montalvo
67. Presentation by Vesta Rea and Associates, airport consultant,
regarding efforts to improve air service at Laredo
International Airport, and consideration of a resolution in
support of improved air service at Laredo International
Airport.
Vesta Rea, Aviation Consultant team of Vesta Rea & Associates
and Apogee Research Inc., made the presentation before the
council on the study and road map to expand the airline and
air cargo markets at Laredo International Airport. She
explained the surveys conducted and the methodology used on
airline market and route analysis study and airline
presentation package. She reported that the survey showed
that of those passengers who indicated that they have taken
more business trips than pleasure trips over the last 12
months, 87% of them drove to San Antonio. The main reason
that they chose for having flown out of San Antonio is the
ticket cost. Business flyers out of either Laredo of San
Antonio chose as their top destination both Dallas and
Houston. She added that 94% of the pleasure travelers drove
to San Antonio because of ticket price and the top
destinations flying out of either Laredo or San Antonio, were
Las Vegas and Dallas. The majority of business and pleasure
travelers elected to fly Southwest Airlines out of San
Antonio to their final destination if Southwest offered
service out of Love Field to their end destination.
Ms. Rea suggested that a team to sell Laredo needs to include
members of the City Council.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, requested that one council
member be part of the team to sell Laredo.
Mayor Ramirez volunteered and named Cm. Bruni to the team to
sell Laredo.
Cm. Bruni suggested that staff looks into the possibility of
subsidizing jet service or whatever it takes to get a first
class jet service to Laredo and asked support from the
council.
Mayor Ramirez suggested that we not only provide a plan of
action to get domestic service on line, but also get Central
and South American airlines to use Laredo as a HUB for both
passengers and cargo.
68. Update on the status of the Colonias Facility Plan and
financial application.
Edward Garza, from Crane Engineering and representing Paul
Garza Engineering, reported that all engineering data has
been approved by the Texas Water Development Board. Comments
by the Historical Commission have been received and they will
wrap it up within 7 days. They will review all information
to see that it is proper and will send it back to the Water
Development Board. He concluded by saying that he is
confident that they will move on it for the next months
financial report review.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated that the process
throughout the state has been very slow, the last time he
checked with the board they said they still had $250 million
unallocated for projects and that they didn't have more than
$50 million on their plate that they wanted to review. He
feels there is still plenty of money for the City of Laredo
and added that the environmental industry is the one creating
the slowdown.
69. Authorize the City Manager to negotiate with the City of
Laredo depository bank (NBC Bank of Laredo) an interim credit
facility for the payment of costs associated with the design,
planning, and surveying of the Laredo N.W. International
Bridge, i.e. Bridge IV.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
70. Presentation on proposed contract with Transworld Systems,
Inc., for an amount not to exceed $8,800.00, for the purpose
of implementing a pilot project at the City of Laredo Health
Department for debt collection services on past due EMS
service accounts owed to the City of Laredo.
Motion to approve the proposed contract with Transworld
Systems, Inc.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
71. Request for Executive Session to be conducted pursuant to
Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to discuss
pending or contemplated litigation: City of Laredo vs. Makro
Business International, Inc., Cause No. C-94-00717-D3, in the
341st Judicial District Court of Webb County, Texas.
Jaime Flores, City Attorney, reported there is an agreed
final judgment on the case. Reading that judgement it is his
opinion that it is unquestionably our property and we can go
ahead with the construction. He added there is still some
replatting to be done by Makro Business International, but
that is not a condition president for us not to proceed with
the construction, the extension of the truck route, and the
building of the retaining wall along Orilla. Makro has yet
to do the replatting and the building of the retaining wall
around Mann. They have gone out there and looked at it,
looked at the agreed judgment and put it in writing in terms
of what the City Engineer might need from us to say go ahead
and proceed. As to whether the funds are there to do that
that's another matter, he is just rendering the opinion of
the agreed final judgement which definitely gives us the go
ahead and that there is nothing holding us back from
proceeding with the construction.
Cm. Alvarado asked the City Manager to have some cost figures
for the budget hearings.
72. Request for Executive Session to be conducted pursuant to
Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to discuss
pending or contemplated litigation regarding the
investigation of the Fleet Maintenance Division.
Motion to go into Executive Session to be conducted pursuant
to Section 551.071 of the Texas Government Code to discuss
pending or contemplated litigation regarding the
investigation of the Fleet Maintenance Division.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After executive session Mayor Ramirez announced that no
formal action was taken.
Mayor Ramirez informed the public that staff will take this
item under advisement as per the City Attorney's advice.
IX. COMMUNICATIONS
a. Recognition of employees who have retired from the City of
Laredo with 20 years or more of service for the period of
January, 1997 thru June, 1997. These individuals are as
follows:
Magdalena Baez (21 years) Day Care Division, Community
Development Department, February 28,
1997.
Benito A. Bondoc (26 years) Fleet Maintenance Division,
Public Works Department, February 28,
1997.
Angel O. Cuellar (20 years) Engineering Department,
April 30, 1997 - received by his son.
Jesus L. De Leon (20 years) Health Department, February
28, 1997.
Francisco Flores (26 years) Public Works Department,
January 31, 1997.
Jose L. Leal (24 years) Education and Recreation
Department, May 31, 1997.
Carlos Mendoza (25 years) Fleet Maintenance Division,
Public Works Department, January 31,
1997.
Rosalinda Moncivais (21 years) Day Care Division, Community
Development Department, February 28,
1997
Adriana Salinas (20 years) Day Care Division, Community
Development Department, February 28,
1997.
Recognition was made to city employees who have retired from
the City of Laredo with 20 years or more of service for the
period of January, 1997 thru June, 1997 by Mayor Ramirez and
Councilmembers.
The following retirees were absent:
Adolfo Esquivel (28 years) Police Department, January
31, 1997.
Francisco R. Martinez (39 years) Police Department January
31, 1997.
Ramon Zamarripa (27 years) Utilities Department,
January 31, 1997.
b. Cm. Bruni expressed condolences to the family of Charles
Borchers.
c. Florencio Pena, City Manager, reminded the Council of the
COPS Workshop on Thursday, July 10th at 5:30 p.m.
X. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
73. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Mayor Pro Tem Jose R. Perez, Jr.
1. Presentation regarding the U.S. Conference of Mayor's Annual
Meeting in San Francisco.
Cm. Perez expressed the exciting moment during the U.S.
Conference of Mayors when President Clinton announced his
appointment of Mayor Saul N. Ramirez, Jr. as Assistant
Secretary of HUD. He showed a video of the event that was
shown on CNN.
2. Discussion and possible action to form an Ad Hoc Committee
for the Waste Management Program.
This item was discussed together with item C(1).
Mr. Perez reported that Hector Farias had requested to meet
with staff on programs available to the city in the Waste
Management Programs. At this point he thinks we need an Ad
Hoc Committee from the council to participate to keep close
tabs on the things that are happening and to see if there is
something they can offer the city to enhance the Waste
Management Program.
Cm. Casso wants to make sure that staff meet with these
gentlemen because we need this information or analysis prior
to our budget hearings because we need to explore other
avenues to save money for the city.
Mr. Pena stated that the request by Mr. Farias was to meet
with City Council and himself, he was told that council had
given 90 days to do that. Mr. Farias said that what he
really wants to do is meet with staff and get information.
Mayor Ramirez named Cm. Perez as chairperson to the committee
Cm. Casso and Cm. Bruni as the other two members.
3. Requesting a status report on the following projects:
a. Southgate Pilot Channel
b. Channel repairs on San Salvador, and
c. New York/Barrios additional water inlets drainage project.
d. Channelization from San Salvador to Pine,
to include timelines for construction completion.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, made the presentation as
follows.
a) The plans were prepared in-house, the contractor is Pete
Gallegos, contract is for $333,823.00, there was a
pre-construction contract on June 17th, the contract
period is 3-1/2 months, the estimated time of completion
is October, 1997 and the project is on schedule.
b) The engineering plans were done in-house, contract has
been awarded to Pete Gallegos Paving Company for
$98,790.00, there was a pre-construction contract on April
21st, the contract period is four months, with an
estimated time of completion date for August, 1997, the
project is on schedule, but there is a change order
pending on this project that might extend the contract
time.
c) The New York/Barrios additional water inlets is a drainage
project that was requested last year to be done by Public
Works, it involves the construction of a valley gutter,
the reconstruction of approximately 75 linear feet of curb
and gutter, the project was designed already, it is
scheduled to be under construction within the next few
weeks, maybe by the end of July.
d) Engineering plans were prepared by Foster Engineering, the
contractor is Ramex Construction, pre-construction
conference was scheduled for July 10, 1997, contract
period is six months, the estimated time of completion is
January of 1998.
B. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Discussion and possible action on adding the 3500 block of
Guerrero, the 1800 block of Harding and the 2300 block of
Canada to the current street paving project.
Cm. Bruni requested the possibility of placing these blocks
on project 60 with funds from project savings.
Mr. Pena stated that this project has already been added to
project 60, the problem with project 60 is short about
$250,000.00 at the present time.
Mayor Ramirez asked that staff bring back to council an
analysis of our current bridge revenues with overages so that
they will know the projected and actual collections on tolls
at the bridge. He also wants the assessments and where the
receivables are, where the money has gone into, whether debt
service, back into the general fund or whether it went to the
city debt service. Finally that staff come back with a
recommendation for funding the additional $250,000 to see if
they can reconfigure the actual Project 60 to see what
streets are in there that they haven't included in CDBG for
potential funding under the project.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, replied that in approximately
20 days staff can present what's available.
Cm. Perez requested for staff to explore Section 108 funds.
Motion direct staff to find the necessary funds to pave these
three (3) blocks and include Milmo by the Aldo Tatangelo Day
Care Center in the current paving project.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
2. Discussion and possible action on adding the following
streets to our street recycling project: Hackberry, Post Oak,
Cypress, Cactus and Dogwood.
Motion to add the following streets to our street recycling
project: Hackberry, Post Oak, Cypress, Cactus and Dogwood
(for next year's program).
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion and possible action on the drainage problem at
Clark (Spur 400) and Ejido.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated they have been in
contact with TxDot and they told staff that they will take
care of this problem. This is a problem where there is a
concrete channel that runs perpendicular with Spur 400 that
the culvert that is located at Spur 400 is higher than the
elevation of the concrete channel so as a result there is
some ponding of water. TxDot has admitted that the elevation
of the design of that concrete channel was not appropriate.
They have asked for a timetable from them to correct it and
the have admitted to the inappropriate design of the culvert
and will be correcting it.
Cm. Bruni stated that the issue is that it is wastewater
with sludge, it is not acceptable, and it creates a health
issue for the residents around the area and wants a
preventive maintenance type of approach.
4. Discussion and possible action on instructing staff to
provide council with a cost estimate on adding brick paver's
to the Clark Boulevard median between Bartlett and Arkansas.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that he will bring back
estimates and recommendations. The present estimates are
$65,000 if we use base blocks and $51,000 if we use texture
concrete.
Cm. Bruni requested that we go out on informal bids.
C. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. "Poncho" Casso
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the economic
evaluation process for the Laredo Landfill.
This item was discussed with A(2).
2. Discussion and possible action regarding a presentation by
Dr. Trevino regarding the Market Street Tennis Courts.
Dr. Trevino, President of the Tennis Association, requested
from Council the possibility of hiring a tennis professional
to teach at the courts and that this person would also be
responsible for policing and maintenance of the courts. He
stated that this would encourage greater use of the
facilities and get more tournaments to Laredo. The salary
range would be between $18,000 to $23,000 per annum.
Mrs. Tina Trevino asked support from council on this
endeavor.
Motion to request from staff to bring this item for
presentation at budget time with costs and options.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. Discussion and possible action regarding the Supreme Court
decision that struck down a key portion of the Brady federal
gun-control law.
Cm. Casso stated this law has been defeated, now the Police
Department and the Sheriff's Department are not required by
law to do background checks on individuals who apply for a
gun license, is the Police Department still doing it, how
many people are applying for handguns in Laredo and will the
Police Department continue to do it?
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Chief of Police, replied that "yes"
they are still doing it, they will continue to keep it status
quo, they will be conducting background checks, and the
Sheriff's Department will also continue to do the same. He
will get Cm. Casso a count of how many people have applied
for handguns in Laredo.
4. Discussion and possible action regarding the tampering of
police records with a presentation by Humberto Gonzalez.
Motion to table for the next meeting for executive session.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
D. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez, Jr.
1. Presentation by Kayla Sanchez, Nena Dominguez, and Dante
Munoz concerning the upcoming South Texas Youth Conference
hosted by the Church of the Crossroads to be held from August
7-10, and requesting a proclamation for "Picture-a-Prayer"
Day.
Wesley Boyd, on behalf of youth of the Church of the
Crossroads, introduced Nena Dominguez who informed he council
of the event to help troubled youth.
Dante Munoz spoke on the upcoming events, commercials, and
announcements and stated that this is the first event ever in
the United States.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the development of
an action plan to address the frequent number of waterline
breakages in the Hillside Neighborhood, especially in the
areas along Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois Streets.
Fernando Roman, Utilities Director, stated they have
identified the blocks that need to be replaced and identified
the source of funds for these projects. He thinks this
project might cost between $40,000-$100,000 depending on the
conditions of the lines. They have not brought the project
at council level because they need to discuss the final plans
with Mr. Pena, but as soon as that is done then it will be
brought for funding and then they can begin immediately.
Cm. Valdez wants to know what kind of action can be taken to
tackle this area.
Mr. Pena stated that there are two areas of concern the
Hillside area south of the creek which is South Dakota. A
plan is in place to replace those service lines, what
happened is that they used some kind of plastic pipe on the
service lines and they need to replace them, they will do
this as soon as they have the funding approved. All these
Capital Improvement Projects will be decided during the CIP
hearings and at that time they will have the project cost
identified.
Mr. Roman stated that the problem on the other side of the
creek is more of a pressure problem. They get pressure from
the water plant or the Lyon Booster Station and one of the
sides has much higher pressure than the other. The plan is
to provide some reduction of the pressure from the high side.
Mr. Pena stated that they haven't designed a project at this
time on how to resolve this problem, but they will work on it
and by budget hearings they will have a cost estimate.
Cm. Bruni stated they need an city-wide action plan to
address for frequent water breakages.
Motion to create a city-wide action plan to address for
frequent water breakages and address it at the budget
workshops.
Moved : Cm. Alvarado
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Protem Perez was chairing the meeting.
3. Status report on the construction of a pedestrian bridge
connecting the Northeast Hillside Recreation Center to the
park, with possible action.
Cm. Valdez stated this is now a safety issue and a graffiti
problem.
Mayor Ramirez asked it was scheduled to put lights in those
areas.
Joe Garza, Parks & Recreation Director, answered there were
some lights installed at the recreation center that were
operational a month ago. The vandalism problem will take
place with or without the bridge. On the bridge, the last
time they discussed this, they had a couple of possible leads
for some individual private corporations to possibly donate
the funds in order to build the bridge, the pieces haven't
come together yet. On the preliminary discussions on the CIP
they have identified this as a priority when council reviews
the projects. He added that for a prefabricated structure
it's about $50,000.00, they will look at options to bring the
cost down, but nevertheless it wasn't identified as something
that has been funded in this current fiscal year, but they
are hoping to fund it next year.
Motion to bring this item back with a cost estimate and if
we don't have the funding, come up with set of plans, and
draft a letter and approach the private sector.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. Requesting a staff report regarding the extension of Arkansas
Boulevard connecting to Bustamante and how this increased
traffic will impact McPherson Road between Bustamante and
Calton Roads.
Mr. Pena stated they can try and do some traffic projections
of the additional traffic. If we get funded in our second
phase of the Economic Development Grant which is to build the
Public Works Yard Facility on Bartlett north of the airport,
they are going to extend Bartlett to connect to Gale, so in
essence there will be some relief of traffic from McPherson
by having that connection. The long term plan which is not
funded as of yet, would be to continue the extension of
Bartlett to Del Mar. There will be two parallel roads
running north/south from Del Mar to Hwy. 59. He added that
they can still do some counts to assume what kind of
projections will resolve when Bustamante is completed.
Cm. Valdez requested a study or report with some type of
action plan or recommendation to see how they can
implement that into the CIP.
E. Requests by Councilmember Joe A. Guerra
1. Presentation by Aldo Tatangelo regarding affordable housing.
Mr. Aldo Tatangelo spoke about areas that are viable that
nothing has been done, there are 40 parcels of land that
still belong to the city, and added that the problem with
affordable housing is the cost of land. He added that we got
into substandard housing and there is lack of affordable
housing. His concern is what are we doing for the barrio
people for affordable housing. He said that we have the
capability, we attested that it can be done, we did it with
Poncho de la Garza.
Mayor Ramirez stated that at the Three Points area they have
32 homes that have already been designed and we are going out
for bids for housing behind the Aldo Tatangelo Day Care
Center. We do have some homes projected for construction on
Cm. Valdez's area the only problem is that they have to make
sure that residents have their due process. The other thing
is that they have been able to put over 200 homes on the
ground including Poncho de la Garza housing project, they
cannot build enough of them quick enough because we are a
growing city.
Cindy Collazo, CD Director, stated that on the one on
Springfield there are eight (8) lots that can be utilized on
Bustamante, however they are waiting that the lift station be
eliminated through the 18" wastewater line that is currently
under construction, that should be completed by December and
hopefully by January they can go out on construction on that
project. Those are seven (7) homes, but if the lift station
is eliminated they hope to add one more.
On Marcella by Springfield they are hoping to place seven (7)
homes, that property needs to be replatted, they need to get
an engineer to get utilities in there. It is paved and there
is one other street that they are trying to add which will be
added to the project.
On the Three Points area they do have the 32 units that are
currently under design by Sanchez & Sanchez, they are trying
to work with that one using innovative methods to keep the
cost of the construction down. They are trying to target
those people in the very bottom and hope to be under
construction by November.
F. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Discussion and possible action requesting that the Laredo
Police Department implement Senate Bill No. 267/House Bill
No. 1379. This legislation allows for public notification of
sex offenders when they come back into our community after
being released from prison.
Ms. Cynthia Ambrose representing SCAN explained that this law
has been in effect since September 1, 1995. She added that
the process is simple, the parole officer is responsible of
notifying the offender to register, once they register
(either adult or juvenile sex offenders) with their local law
enforcement depending on the jurisdiction (Sheriff's Office
or LPD) who is responsible for notifying the media and the
superintendents of UISD or LISD. She said they are pushing
on notifying the communities also. There have been many
cases where many of these offenders are on probation but
nobody knows, and these people continue to victimized these
children. They were before council hoping that council can
help push and emphasized the points of utilizing the
notification process. She concluded by saying that people
have the right to know what offenders are living in their
jurisdiction.
Ms. Sandra Hernandez of SCAN stated that community has the
right to be know who is living in their neighborhood and the
only way they can stop child abuse is by making the community
aware of where these offenders are living. She urged that
council help them in utilizing the Police Department pass
this bill.
Cm. Alvarado stated that a copy of this bill has been
forwarded to the Crimes Against Persons at the Police
Department, he has talked to some officers and this
particular right is not being utilized at this point and
time. He is hoping that this information has been looked at
and reviewed and that action will be taken by the Police
Department.
Agustin Dovalina, Interim Chief of Police, stated they
received the information and are reviewing the overall bill
structure, they do have an existing registration system where
sexual offenders do come by and register with PD. They are
reviewing the overall makeup to come up with something in the
form of community notification system and are actively
looking at that right now.
2. Update regarding the status of the Father Charles McNaboe
Park Project.
Joe Garza, Parks & Recreation Director, stated that they went
out on bids the second time and a few days ago they received
the bid tabulation, there was only one contractor and it is
$1 million over budget once again. What they haven't been
able to do is sit down as a staff and bring all the parties
together to discuss what kind of alternatives they are going
to present to council for recommendation purposes. They need
to bring UISD because they are playing a major role in this
project, they have a $250,000 investment and they are hoping
to come back to council with a recommendation at the next
council meeting.
Mr. Pena stated that by the time of Capital Improvements
hearings they will come back with a strategy of how to
accomplish this project.
3. Follow-up on a request for a traffic signal study at the
intersection of Milo and El Portal entrance.
Mr. Roberto Murillo stated they looked at both locations and
the traffic on Alburn was greater than the one at Gabin so
they decided to conduct the study at that location. In
addition, they received a request from Hurd Development on
behalf of Gateway Transfer where they provided projections
for Gateway Transfer if and when they move all their
operation and all the traffic it would generate. They
offered to participate in the funding of the signal, however
the counts that they took indicated that a traffic signal was
not warranted.
Also discussed at the last meeting was the possibility of
talking to TxDot regarding the use of these projections, they
plugged the projections into the formula used for the
warranting of a signal, using the projection there is a
possibility that it would warrant if when and all the
operation moves and if the numbers are according to what was
provided. In talking with TxDot's engineer he said that
since it is on the state right-of-way, it would have to be
approved by TxDot and that they might consider projections,
however there needs to be a study done by a professional
firms, submitted to TxDot for review and if it shows and
indicates that it warrants it they would consider the
projections. He mentioned that they would give authorization
to install the light, but would not be able to activate the
light until figures show that it is warranted and until they
meet the requirements.
He concluded by saying that the final alignment of Milo will
play a big role, so they are recommending that a signal not
be installed because it is not warranted, and because they
should wait to see what happens with the alignment of road.
Cm. Alvarado wants something in writing on Mr. Murillo's
explanation and on the requested study so that he can present
it at the neighborhood meetings. He wants to look at what
traffic signals are going to be prioritized in his district
wants options to see what steps can be taken, cost estimates
as to what it would cost for that type of study by a
professional firm. In future request he wants a written
report when the information is complete.
4. Follow-up on a request made by the City Council on 6-2-97 to
reduce the speed limit on the Mines Road.
Mr. Landin, Bridge and Traffic Directors, stated that a
letter sent to TxDot to go ahead and prepare a traffic study
on Mines Road. The information they received from TxDot is
that they are going to make a study from the railroad
crossing to where the road splits, one mile to the north.
He added that (TTI) Texas Transportation Institute is
contracted from the highway department to do their speed
studies and the are not going to do this study until August
when their fiscal monies come up. The study will be done by
October.
Mr. Landin spoke in reference to the traffic signal at Mines
Road, he said he received a letter from Mr. Killam opposing
that traffic signal, but as soon as they have all the
parameters of the situation he will bring this issue back to
council.
Cm. Alvarado wants a copy of Mr. Killam's letter.
5. Discussion with possible action requesting road maintenance
by the Public Works Department on Industrial Boulevard and
Santa Maria.
Joe Guerra, Public Works Director, stated that the road
maintenance will have to be done on a Saturday because of the
high traffic and if it needs an overlay, they will overlay
without any problem.
XI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
74. Public hearing concerning the Local Law Enforcement Block
Grant. This hearing is to inform the public about the Local
Law Enforcement Block Grant Program and the application
submitted by the City and the Laredo Police Department to the
U.S. Department of Justice, as well as to solicit input from
the public on the allocation of funds from the grant.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Miss Diana Navarro, Administration Planner for the Police
Department, gave a history on the Block Grant Program. She
reported that these funds are for the hiring of new officers.
Cm. Casso wants a breakdown report on how much it is spent in
court time and breakdown on overtime where its going.
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
75. Public hearing approving amendment two to the budget in the
amount of $9,500.00, for the Chronic Disease Prevention
Program, Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Project (BCCCP),
of the City of Laredo Health Department and extension of
contract term period from June 30, 1997, through August 31,
1997.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving amendment two to the budget in the amount
of $9,500.00, for the Chronic Disease Prevention Program,
Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Project (BCCCP), of the
City of Laredo Health Department and extension of contract
term period from June 30, 1997, through August 31, 1997,
providing for publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
76. Public hearing approving a contract with the University of
Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and budget in the
amount of $5,250.00, for the Education and Training Program
of the City of Laredo Health Department for the period
beginning February 1, 1997, through September 28, 1997.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving a contract with the University of Texas
Health Science Center at San Antonio and budget in the amount
of $5,250.00, for the Education and Training Program of the
City of Laredo Health Department for the period beginning
February 1, 1997, through September 28, 1997, providing for
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mr. Juan Barrera wanted to know what kind of training it is.
Mr. Robinson stated primarily for the nursing staff.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
77. Public hearing approving a contract with the Texas Natural
Resource and Conservation (TNRCC) and budget in the amount of
$25,000.00, to continue the operation of a continuous air
monitoring station (CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning September 1, 1997,
through August 31, 1998.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Ordinance approving a contract with the Texas Natural
Resource and Conservation (TNRCC) and budget in the amount of
$25,000.00, to continue the operation of a continuous air
monitoring station (CAMS) by the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period beginning September 1, 1997,
through August 31, 1998, providing for publication and
effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the
ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
XII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Mass
Transit Board.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
78. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise
for bids for Security Guard Services for the Laredo Transit
System/City of Laredo. The Security Guard Services Contract
will provide four (4) uniformed security guards for the
security and safety of the Laredo Municipal Transit Center,
El Metro Operations and Maintenance Buildings and its
patrons.
Motion to approve bid specifications and authorize to
advertise.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
79. Public hearing and motion to realign route #13 Heritage Park
in order to provide public transportation to an area known as
the ghost town neighborhood situated west of Arkansas Avenue.
There is a correction from west to east by Mr. Gilbert
Segovia, Transit Manager.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to realign route #13 Heritage Park in order to provide
public transportation to an area known as the ghost town
neighborhood situated west of Arkansas Avenue.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING
CORPORATION
Motion to recess as The Laredo Mass Transit Board and The Laredo
Muncipal Housing Corporation.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
80. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs)
for consulting services to prepare an engineering preliminary
survey and a survey of final improvements for 50 single
family dwellings of affordable housing for applicants of the
Lease/Purchase Program located on Block 1, Lots 16-24; Block
2, Lots 2-10; Block 3, Lots 2-10 and 13-21; Block 4, Lots 2-8
and 12-18 in Riverhills Subdivision, Unit 1.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation
and convene as City Council.
Moved : Cm. Casso
Second: Cm. Alvarado
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn.
Moved :
Second:
For: Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Adjournment time: 9:15 p.m.
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 44
ARE TRUE COMPLETE AND CORRECT PROCEEDINGS OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL
MEETING HELD ON THE 7TH DAY OF JULY, 1997. A CERTIFIED COPY IS ON FILE
AT THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY