CITY OF LAREDO
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1110 HOUSTON STREET
LAREDO, TEXAS
5:30 P.M.
MINUTES
M98-R-13 MARCH 2, 1998
I. CALL TO ORDER
With a quorum present Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores called the meeting to
order.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
IN ATTENDANCE:
ELIZABETH G. FLORES, 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, JR., " , DISTRICT V
JOE A. GUERRA, " , DISTRICT VI
CONSUELO "CHELO" MONTALVO, " , DISTRICT VIII
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR. CITY SECRETARY
FLORENCIO PENA, III, CITY MANAGER
JAIME L. FLORES, CITY ATTORNEY
ABSENCES:
Motion to excuse Cm. Alvarado.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso Cw. Moreno
Motion to waive the regular order of business and move up items
C(2) and D(1) for consideration and discussion.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Cm. Casso came in at 5:36 p.m. and Cw. Moreno at 5:43 p.m.
IV. INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES
2. Establishing a 15% penalty on delinquent tax accounts as of July 1,
1998, to defray cost of collection pursuant to Section 33.07(a) of the
Property Tax Code.
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
V. FINAL READINGS
Motion to waive the final reading #98-O-045, #98-O-059,
#98-O-066, #98-O-067, #98-O-068, #98-O-069, #98-O-070,
#98-O-071, #98-O-072, #98-O-073, #98-O-074, and #98-O-075.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
3. 98-O-045 Amending Chapter 21 Offense and Miscellaneous provisions,
Article V. Alarm Systems of the Code of Ordinances to the
City of Laredo. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-045.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
4. 98-O-059 Amend the City of Laredo's 1997-1998 Annual Budget in the
amount of $31,845.00, for direct operating expenses for a
Multi-Agency Financial Disruption Task Force for the period
of July 1, 1997 and ending June 30, 1998. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-059.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: Against: 0 Abstain: 0
5. 98-O-066 Authorizing the City Manager to execute all necessary
documents to effectively convey fee simple title to Export
Storage Co., Incorporated, for the sale of the "Surface
Only" at it's fair market value, of certain City properties
described as Parcel "A" consisting of 13,890 square feet
(55.55' x 250') out of that former section of the 1900 block
of Garden Street between the west right-of-way line of Santa
Rita Avenue and the east right-of-way line of Vidaurri
Avenue and being bounded on the north by Block 557, W.D.
and on the south by Block 550, W.D. and Parcel "B"
consisting of 13,890 square feet (55.56' x 250') out of the
former section of the 1900 block of Constantinople Street
between the west right-of-way line of Santa Rita Avenue and
the east right-of-way line of Vidaurri Avenue, being bounded
on the north by Block 562, W.D. on the south by Block 557,
W.D. situated in the Western Division, City of Laredo, Webb
County, Texas, and hereby approving the submitted
Improvement Plan and which is in compliance with Section 10
of the Street Closing/Sales Policy Handbook as approved per
Resolution No. 97-R-140; and providing for an effective
date. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-066.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
6. 98-O-067 Authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement between
the City of Laredo Utilities Department, as Seller and the
City of Laredo General Fund, as Buyer, to purchase the
leasehold interest from the Utilities Department consisting
of an office building and improvements located at 4002
Bartlett at the Laredo International Airport. The purchase
price is $400,000.00, being the appraised fair market value
of the building and improvements. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-067.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
7. 98-O-068 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease between the
City of Laredo Airport Fund, as Lessor and the City of
Laredo General Fund, as Lessee, for two tracts of land
containing approximately 8.973 acres, consisting of 6.597
acres out of Block No. 30 and 2.376 acres out of Block No.
22, recorded in Volume 5, Page 1, Plat Records of Webb
County, said property is located at the Laredo International
Airport.
1. Lease term is for twenty five (25) years plus one 15 year
renewal option.
2. The initial monthly rent shall be $3,908.67 plus annual
CPI rent adjustments and to include rent adjustments
based on fair market appraisal at each 10 year
anniversary period. (City Council) (As Amended)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-068.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
8. 98-O-069 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a lease between the
City of Laredo General Fund, as Lessor and the University of
Texas Board of Texas Board of Regents for use and benefit of
the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
as Lessee, for two tracts of land containing approximately
8.973 acres, consisting of 6.597 acres out of Block No. 30
and 2.376 acres out of Block No. 22, recorded in Volume 5,
Page 1, Plat Records of Webb County, said property is
located at the Laredo International Airport.
1. Lease term is for twenty five (25) years plus one 15
year renewal option.
2. The monthly rent during the term of the lease agreement
and during any option to renew shall be $10.00 per year.
The City hereby declares the establishment and construction
of a localized medical education and research campus is
sufficient consideration for this lease. (City Council) (As
Amended)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-069.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
9. 98-O-070 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 7.72 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located on State Highway 359, also known as
TransTexas Gas Corporation, from R-1 (Single Family
Residential District) to M-1 (Light Manufacturing District).
(Jose R. Perez)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-070.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
10. 98-O-071 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 5.122 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds, located at the 6300 Block of US 59, from AG
(Agricultural District) and R-1A (Single Family Reduced Area
District) to R-1-MH (Single Family Manufactured Housing
District). (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-071.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
11. 98-O-072 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning 0.997 acres, located at the 6400 Block of U.S.
Highway 59, from AG (Agricultural District) to B-3
(Community Business District), and authorizing the issuance
of a Conditional Use Permit for manufactured housing sales
on said site; providing for publication and effective date.
(Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-072.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
12. 98-O-073 Amending City of Laredo Ordinance No. 96-O-097 which
authorized the issuance of a Special Use Permit for a Mobile
Home Park on 24.5 acres, as further described by metes and
bounds located on Hwy 59, also known as Casa Del Sol Mobile
Home Park, by revising the site plan. (Louis H. Bruni)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-073.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
13. 98-O-074 Amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by
rezoning Lots 1 and 2, Block 470, Eastern Division, located
at 4217 Marcella Avenue, from R-3 (Mixed Residential
District) to B-1 (Limited Business District). (Eliseo
Valdez Jr.)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-074.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
14. 98-O-075 Amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 General Fund by
appropriating $400,000.00, from fund balance to be
transferred to the Water Fund and appropriating said balance
in the Water Fund revenues and expenses. (City Council)
Motion to approve Ordinance #98-O-075.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VI. RESOLUTIONS
15. 98-R-039 Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant from the
Office of National Drug Control Policy in the amount of
$356,086.00, for funding personnel and supplies for the
Multi-Agency Financial Disruption Task Force for the period
beginning January 1, 1998 through December 31, 1998.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-039.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
16. 98-R-041 Rescinding Resolution No. 97-R-117 by which the City of
Laredo accepted the donation of a two-acre tract of land
from Mr. Blackstone Dilworth, Jr., Mr. J.B. "Scott"
Dilworth III, and Ms. Diane Dilworth Gates, for the
construction of a fire station on North McPherson Road at
its intersection with Grand Central Boulevard, and accepting
the donation of an alternative two-acre tract from the
above-mentioned members of the Dilworth family for same fire
station construction. Said alternative tract being 2.000
acres of land situated in Porcion 20 and the northeast part
of Survey Number 2415, School File 14283, Webb County,
Texas; being more particularly described by metes and bounds
as follows:
Being 2.000 acres of land situated in porcion 20 and the
northeast part of survey number 2415, School File 14283,
Webb County, Texas, being a portion of that certain larger
tract containing 2,307.1165 acres (called 2,389.5) and known
as "San Isidro Ranch" conveyed to Blackstone Dilworth, Jr.,
J.B. "Scott" Dilworth III, and Diane Dilworth Gates, by deed
recorded in Volume 1395, page 085, of the Deed Records of
said County.
Motion to approve Resolution #98-R-041.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
VII. MOTIONS
17. Approval of bid specifications and authorization to advertise for bids
for the following:
a) Vehicle Lease - Police Department
b) Vibratory Trench Compactors - Utilities Department
c) Dedicated Groundwater Monitoring and Pumping System for the City
Landfill
d) Request for Proposal - Automated Telephone Customer Information
System - Utility Billing Division
e) Cargo Van - Traffic Safety Department f) Equipment rental 2-
scrapers, 1-water wagon, 1-sheepfoot compactor-Public Works
Department, Father McNaboe Park construction project.
A tentative award date is scheduled for April 6, 1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
18. Approval of the construction plans and authorization to advertise for
bids for Cells 9 and 10 at the City of Laredo Landfill to include
construction of an approximately seven (7) acre composite landfill
liner for Type I Cells 9 and 10 with tentative award on April 6, 1998.
Funding is available in the Landfill Advertising.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
19. Authorization to advertise for Request for Proposals (RFPs) for
consulting engineering services for an automated leachate collection
system at the City of Laredo Type I Landfill located on Highway 359
which is to include surveying, engineering design, specifications for
pumps, sensors, control panels, other system components and storage
facility, preparation of specifications construction plans, cost
estimates, and construction management as required for compliance with
the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission's Subtitle D
Requirements of 30 TAC 330 Municipal Solid Waste Regulations. Funding
is available in the Landfill Fund Advertising.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
20. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit proposals from qualified
environmental consultants to develop a "Guidance Manual" to compliment
the existing HazMat ordinance, as required by the HazMat Education and
Enforcement Grant on a fast track basis.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
21. Authorizing the City Manager to solicit proposals from qualified
environmental consultants to develop a NPDES (National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System) Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan
for the City of Laredo Type I Landfill located on Highway 359 with the
option to investigate the requirements of similar services for all
other closed landfills. The scope of work shall include developing a
drainage master plan, implementing best management practices,
monitoring and sampling plan as required for compliance with the 40
CFR 122.26.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
22. Award of contract to the SOLE BIDDER, Royal Treat Carwash, Laredo,
Texas, in the estimated amount of $26,000.00, for furnishing car wash
services for the City's automotive fleet. Bids were requested on car
wash service with and without inside vacuum. The total bid pricing is
approximately the same as the previous contract period. All services
are secured on an as need basis.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
23. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER, UEC Equipment Co., Oklahoma City,
Oklahoma, in the amount of $97,504.00, for the purchase of two 1/2 ton
trucks with an aerial device. One will be assigned to the Traffic
Safety Department and the other to the Parks and Recreation
Department. This equipment will be delivered within one hundred and
twenty days. A total of five bids were received for this purchase.
Funding is available from certificate of obligation proceeds.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
24. Award of contract to the LOW BIDDER MEETING SPECIFICATIONS, Accu-Rite
Roofing, San Antonio, Texas, in the amount of $15,995.00, for roof
repairs needed at the Jefferson Street Water Treatment plant. The City
received three bids for this contract. The repairs will be completed
with two weeks after award of contract. Funding is available in the
department's operation budget.
The City did receive a lower bid from Flores Roofing, Laredo, Texas,
however this vendor is in arrears in City taxes and cannot be
considered for this contract work.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
25. Award of contract to the LOWEST BIDDER, Laidlaw Environmental
Services, San Antonio, Texas in the amount of $50,625.80, for
coordinating two events in the year 1998 for the collection,
processing, packing, transporting and proper disposal of household
hazardous waste as part of the city's Household Hazardous Waste
Collection and Proper Disposal Program. The cost of disposal is the
same as that of the previous years.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
26. Award of contracts to the LOW BIDDERS, Laredo Diesel, Laredo, Texas,
in the amount of $59,613.00, for the purchase of one 12 cubic yard
dump truck for the Public Works Department and Power Equipment
International, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, in the amount of
$42,024.00, for the purchase of one 6 cubic yard dump truck for the
Parks and Recreation Department. These trucks will be delivered
within one hundred and twenty days.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez.
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7
27. Award of contracts to the LOW BIDDERS, U.S. Filter Distribution Group,
Laredo, Texas, in the estimated amount of $212,267.00, for the
purchase of PVC pipe, and Municipal Pipe and Fabricating Company,
Mission, Texas, in the estimated amount of $124,423.00, for the
purchase of PVC and ductile iron pipe. These materials are purchased
on an as needed basis by the Utilities Department - Water Operations
for construction and repair projects. The bid pricing is
approximately 34% higher than the previous contract.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
28. Award of three (3) engineering contracts, for surveying, design and
preparation of plans and specifications for the FY 97-98 as follows:
1. Tinaja/Chacon Pilot Channel Improvements Phase I to Porras
Engineering for an amount not to exceed $26,000.00.
2. Construction of Sidewalks and Handicap Ramps on School approaches
and other streets located within the Community Development target
areas to WSBC Civil Engineers for an amount not to exceed
$69,466.65.
3. El Portal Riverfront Feasibility Study to Frank Architects/Sherfey
Engineering Company for an amount not to exceed $23,000.00.
Funding is available in: 1) Community Development CDBG Tinaja/Chacon
Pilot Channel; 2) Community Development CDBG Sidewalk and 3) Community
Development CDBG El Portal Riverfront Study.
Cm. Bruni requested a report on the specifications used for the base
materials used to construct the road to see if it meets TxDOT and City
of Laredo criteria.
Dr. James Earhart, Director of the Rio Grande International Study
Center, stated that he supports El Portal Project and added that we
need to move quickly before we loose more trees and the erosion gets
worse and prevent the creation of more arroyos. His concern are the
heavy rains and the need for corrective and preventive action with the
addition of planting trees and mulching the roads.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
29. Approval of amendment no. 1 an increase of $3,818.34, to the original
contract of $15,320.04, to Jones Environmental Drilling, Inc., Corpus
Christi, Texas, for Installation/Construction of an additional
Groundwater Monitoring Well at the City's Municipal Landfill in
compliance with Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC)
Chapter 330 Subchapter I (Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring) and
Subchapter J (Closure). The original amount of wells was 4 and with
this amendment the total amount of wells will be 5. This amendment
brings the total to $19,138.38.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
30. Approval to reject the two bids received for the Laredo Independent
School District (LISD) Ochoa-Sanchez Park located at Locust Street and
Monterrey Avenue, and re-bid the project. This a City of Laredo/LISD
Project with funding available from Community Development CDBG Ochoa-
Elementary Park.
Motion to table.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 0 Abstain: 2
Cw. Moreno
Cm. Perez
31. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a cooperative agreement with
the County of Webb, Head Start Program, on behalf of the City of
Laredo Health Department for health services and disease prevention
activities to be provided through the WIC Program and the Health
Protective Services Division for the period beginning September 1,
1997, through August 31, 1998.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
32. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with the Texas
Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics, for the purpose of
providing on-line computer services through the City of Laredo Health
Department's Vital Statistics Division.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
33. Authorizing the City Manager to amend Section 2.7 of the Catholic
Social Services' of Laredo, Inc. (CSSL) contract for funding to
administer the City's Fiscal Year 1997-1998 General Fund Welfare
Assistance Program retroactively to October 1, 1997.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
34. Approval of the revised plan for the construction of the Father
Charles McNaboe Recreational Complex and authorization for staff to
proceed with project construction. Funding is available in the Capital
Improvement Fund.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
35. Informing Council of the results of the bids for the relocation of
utilities on Hwy. 59; awarding the contract to the sole responsible
bidder, Price Construction, in the amount of $610,827.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 5 Against: 1 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni
Cm. Casso was not present.
VIII. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
36. Presentation and possible action on a motion by the Telecommunications
Commission recommending to City Council that the City petition the
Attorney General to file a class action lawsuit against payless
communications.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Flores passed her gavel to Cw. Moreno while she was temporarily
absent.
37. Update on the status of the Colonias Facility Plan and financial
application.
Jerry Pinzon, Assistant Utilities Director, stated that
Steve Mendoza received the plan that was submitted by Holgan
Corporation along with the response to the preliminary review
of the facility plan and ten questions with answers that were
submitted by Paul Garza. Will be calling back to see if anything else
is pending. As far as the Environmental Information Document it has
not been submitted to TNRCC by MARIAH which is a subcontract to Paul
Garza due to the check sent not clearing as of yet, will follow-up on
it.
Mayor requested a report on this status on March 16th.
38. Status reports regarding the implementation of the City of Laredo FAR
PART 150 Airport Noise Compatibility Program and installation of the
Terminal Automated Radar Display Information System (TARDIS).
Jose Flores, Airport Director, updated, as of last week FAA still had
not released any monies for any noise abatement
project across the country, however, FAA has recently requested
comments regarding proposed changes to the airport
layout plan and those changes will include the acquisition of
land for noise compatibility purposes, so if FAA has already
started the process of soliciting comments then there is a very good
likelihood that we will get funded anytime from this week to 60 days
from today.
39. Request for Executive Session as authorized by Texas Government Code,
Section 551.071(1)(B), to discuss settlement offer of pending
litigation in the case of City of Laredo vs. Magna Corporation dba
Executive House Hotel, Cause No. 97CVQ00172-D1, 49th District Court,
Webb County and return to open session for possible action.
Motion to go into Executive Session as authorized by Texas Government
Code, Section 551.071(1)(B), to discuss settlement offer of pending
litigation in the case of City of Laredo vs. Magna Corporation dba
Executive House Hotel, Cause No. 97CVQ00172-D1, 49th District Court,
Webb County.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
After executive session Mayor Elizabeth G. Flores announced that no
formal action was taken.
Motion to accept the offer of $10,851.36 from Magna Corp., dba
Executive House Hotel, Cause No. 97CVQ00172-D1, 49th District Court,
Webb County.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
IX. COMMUNICATIONS
Alfonso Holguin, from the Laredo Boxing Club and father of Gabriel and
Jorge Holguin, along with the Laredo Boxing President Angel Santiago
recognized the two boxers for receiving the Best Fighter Awards in San
Antonio.
X. CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION
40. Requests by Mayor and City Councilmembers for discussion and
presentation.
A. Requests by Councilmember Louis H. Bruni
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the placement of a traffic
signal at the intersection of Milmo and Saunders Streets.
Luis Landin, Traffic Director, stated that Mr. Robert Casso
one of the property owners was willing to donate that portion
of the easement providing that a signal would be installed there.
TxDOT stated that they refuse to install anything until the road is
complete and then will have a study to see if it's warranted. Also,
Tamkin Company refused HEB to place
the signal there.
Cm. Bruni requested a report from Police Chief Dovalina on the number
of accidents that have taken place within the last
months due to it being a highly congested area.
Luis Landin, Traffic Director, stated that a traffic study
was conducted from Ejido to Buena Vista and recommended that
TxDOT put up a median there to keep traffic from coming across the
highway system, TTI only recommended from Arkansas
to part of Las Plazas area. TxDOT needs to let them know
where they stand in regards to the signal that is needed there.
2. Status report regarding the widening and storm drainage improvements
to Cherry Hill Drive between Calton Road and Bustamante Street.
Alejandro Lambrada, from the Engineering Department, reported that
they have identified some demolition and pavement reconstruction, some
utilities and drainage improvement and will need approximately 35 ft.
additional right-of-way
fronting on the old MHMR truck. Cost is estimated to be about
$465,000 and have done some preliminary surveys to
identify the funding source.
Motion to instruct staff to find the funding for the design work; to
go out on bids; and to identify the right-of-ways needed.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 4 Against: 3 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni Cm. Perez
Cm. Casso Cw. Moreno
Cm. Guerra Cm. Valdez
Cw. Montalvo
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that staff will bring back a
report to council for the funding of the design work
and the status of the project funds.
3. Status report regarding the paving of the 3300 Block of Lane, and the
resurfacing the 1600, 1700, and 1800 Blocks of Milmo with possible
action.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that during the budget process a
3 year recycling program was identified due to the
Payment Management System. The council added the criteria
that we needed to try to balance the money to all the districts and
approved this year's program of 159 blocks which does not include
Milmo Street for the year 1997 and 1998. Milmo Street does appear for
the 1999 and 2000 program, which is the 3rd year program.
The Utilities Department needs to program their work to do the work
underneath the street in anticipation of the recycling.
Jerry Pinzon, Assistant Utilities Director, stated that some work
needs to be done on the 1600 and 1700 blocks of Milmo
Street and is estimated at $22,000 dollars and takes approximately 1-
1/2 weeks of work. Currently they are working on the recycling
streets that are to be completed this March.
Motion to instruct staff to schedule repair of the water sewer lines
within 4 months infrastructure needs and if not
to add it to the present project.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 4 Against: 3 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni Cm. Perez
Cm. Casso Cw. Moreno
Cm. Guerra Cm. Valdez
Cw. Montalvo
4. Discussion and possible action on the sidewalk improvements to the
Montgomery India Project with funding available from cost saving from
said project.
Motion to start the pavement of the 8 blocks with the cost savings the
staff has provided.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 5 Against: 2 Abstain: 0
Cm. Bruni Cm. Perez
Cm. Casso Cm. Valdez
Cw. Moreno
Cw. Guerra
Cw. Montalvo
B. Requests by Councilmember Alfonso I. Casso
1. Discussion and possible action regarding Tree City USA and the tree
maintenance program.
Cm. Casso asked how the $20,000 that was earmarked for the
program has been spent so far.
John Vidaurri, Parks & Recreation Director, read the requirements on
standards to be eligible as a Tree City USA.
He stated that 1st - a Tree Board needs to be appointed by the Mayor;
2nd - a Community Tree Ordinance Board needs to be in place; 3rd an
annual budget of $2 per capita needs to be established, approximately
$350,000; and 4th that the Community observes the Annual National
Arbor Day.
Cm. Casso requested that we start the ordinance and appoint the board
as soon as possible with the possibility of merging
it with the Parks Board.
Ms. Danita Benavides, property owner, showed the Council pictures of
trees that were cut down to the stumps by CPL and that they are not
using a sealer to prevent decay.
Mr. Richard Gentry, Gentry's Garden Center, stated that no
prior notification was given to homeowners in the area about
the pruning of the trees. He also stated that no pruning paint was
used to protect trees from termites and bores that
will affect the trees in the future.
Mr. Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that staff will contact CPL
and put them on notice on any future tree cutting and pruning.
2. Discussion and possible action regarding the recent personnel re-
assignments.
Cm. Casso, stated that he wanted the whole council to discuss this
issue since on February 23rd a letter called the Quality Service Task
Force from the City Manager was sent regarding the 2 different task force that the City Manager created. On
February 26th another letter in regards to the personnel re-
assignments was sent and Mr. John Vidaurri who was hired as an
Assistant City Manager was reassigned as a Parks and
Recreation Dept. Director.
Cm. Casso stated that he is concerned about what has happened
because in the past we used to have 1 City Manager and 2 Assistant
City Managers. After City Manager Pena was given the title, he was
advised from a policy stand point that an Assistant City Manager was necessary because of the excessive
work load that makes it difficult for one person to try to coordinate
everything. Inspite of the different department heads, someone that
will coordinate everything with all the Department Directors is needed in the event that Mr. Pena were to get
ill or stricken from work.
Cm. Casso stated that he would like to see that in the future
the Department Directors come before the Council once a month
and give a brief update.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that regarding the Quality
Service Task Force was not a personnel re-assignment, but more of an
effort to address a concern that the Council has had in regards to
improve customer service, monitor the quality of work by employees in
certain areas, a need to establish innovativeness, and a need to
better City Council concerns and issues. He felt that the 2 areas
that need improvement was the Public Works or Operations Area. In the
meantime, he created a task force for a period of 6 months that will
evaluate organizational structures, evaluate service delivery and to
try to address those 4 areas of concern and within 6 months make
recommendations to him and possibly implement some matters. In the Public Works Area it
would be utilities, public works, engineering, bridge and traffic. In
the Planning and Management Area it would be in the planning
department, community development department and building inspection
department which have alot in common and feels he needs some
assistance particularly in project management and customer service. Two chairs have been designated to
oversee those 2 committees, one is Fernando Roman, to oversee and work together as a team with those
4 people to develop some recommendations, the other is
Cindy Collazo who has been designated as the chair in the
Community Development Area. These 2 individuals will be
addressing the problems of service delivery, quality control,
customer service and innovativeness.
In regards to Mr. Vidaurri, Parks and Recreation has become
a concern with recreational centers that were open and had their areas
of need, the Tecolotes contract and now the Tree City USA are about to get started and feels that with Mr.
Vidaurri's experience and contribution to the city, he would
best suit the Parks Department on a full time basis.
In regards to the micromangement, most departments have good
quality department heads and does not get involved on a day to day
basis, but does expect accountability and holds them responsible for
their areas.
Regarding Mr. Pena's absence to the city, the City Council would
appoint someone in an acting capacity and would not be up to him, but
in the past he would normally go with the most experienced department
heads to oversee the day to day operations.
In regards to replace Mr. Vidaurri's and Mr. Perez positions that were
re-assigned, he plans to advertise Richard's position of Assistant to
the City Manager, as far as the
Assistant City Manager, he plans to spend sometime over the next 3
months to see what direction these 2 task forces go in terms of the
needs and response that will be provided by other department heads and
their departments, then make an analysis and go forward.
Cm. Bruni stated that for sometime now, Mr. Pena has been asked to
hire an Assistant City Manager and for some reason
has not followed the council's directive, he feels that having to wait
3 more months to hire an Assistant City Manager is not going to do the
board any good and does not
make for good business sense because a person is needed at all times.
Mayor Betty Flores, concluded by addressing to Mr. Pena that
all councilmembers have requested from him to hire and fill
the 2 vacant positions as soon as possible.
3. Discussion and possible action regarding a land use agreement with
Webb County for the donation of County owned land by the old detention
center for the construction of the City of Laredo Fire Training
Facility.
Cm. Casso stated that he wants to make sure that the County is giving
the city good quality land and asked if the proposed land for the Fire
Training Facility could be used for the Type IV landfill.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, replied that due to various reasons it
was not feasible at the time, but could be taken into considertion
even though an amended permit would have to be filed and would take
some years to process. For now the idea was to buy the 100 acres at a
much inexpensive price on the opposite side of Highway 359. He added
that there is other uses for that property, one of them is to build
the Sanitation Department on at least 15 to 20 acres of the 50 acres
that are there along with a parking lot for the garbage trucks, being
its near the landfill, and near the recycling center. He said that
this was a current thought but no definite plans were set and a
decision would have to be made as to if the new Fire Training Facility
will be built there or not.
Cm. Casso stated that he wants to see the pros and cons on
building it there and review it and bring back with different
options and legal parameters.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that alternative sites
and comparisons were already studied back in 1993 and asked
if it needed to be done again or first face the issue of building the
new Fire Training Facility there or not.
Next council meeting will get the issue of the funding resolved, in
the meantime, began identifing alternative sites and see how we will
procede to do those.
C. Requests by Councilmember Eliseo Valdez Jr.
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the inclusion of West Olive
Street to Cutler Repaving Contract.
Cm. Valdez stated that it was scheduled for the first year but needs
to know when it will be scheduled to get underway since street is in
bad condition.
Alejandro Lambrada, from the Engineering Department, replied that he
will let Cm. Valdez know by tomorrow with a schedule and a sequence of
the construction.
2. Status report regarding the 5% pay increase for city employees, with
possible action.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, reported that City Council had
adopted a 5% increase as a part of the 1997 and 1998 budget
effective October 1st across the board, a 2-1/2% effective April 1st,
and a 2-1/2% September 30th. Council asked staff to investigate if
there was a way that some expenditure adjustments could be made to
allow the 2-1/2% to be granted April 1st which will be a total of 5%.
Over the last few months various departments have been worked to see
what cost cutting measures need to be taken to move-up the September 30th
increase to April 1st as well.
Beto Ramirez, Budget Officer, reported that last year we had
$1,104,000 in our budget, a 5% on anniversary dates for all employees.
An ordinance change went thru and had a 5% increase on October 1st
across the board for all employees, a 2-1/2% on April 1st and 2-1/2%
on September 30th. We were able to come-up with the necessary savings
for the 5% and the
2-1/2% on April 1st. Because of the vacancies that are currently
available, we were able to save $258,000 from salary savings for the
first quarter, if positions are to get filled, then we will reduce
that amount that we have available for the $1,100,000 that we need for
the end of the year so that we can commit to the 5% and the 2-1/2%
with the salary savings. We have asked all the Department Directors
where they can make permanent cuts in their departments and were able
to come-up with close to $100,000 dollars in cost reductions. We need
to go up approximately 5% on April 1st, but need an additional
$500,000 dollars. At the present time, we were able to come-up with
approximately $100,000 dollars putting us short only if we are
committed as per council directive for the April 1st to be at 5%.
Cm. Perez asked if all new revenues have been considered that had been
reported by staff.
Mr. Beto Ramirez, replied that they have looked at the
revenues, but does not recommend at this point that any additional
revenues be certified because the budget amount has not been met.
Cm. Perez requested that it be explored further to try to
comply with the commitment of the 5% increase.
Florencio Pena, City Manager, stated that staff has looked at the
expenditure side, more so than the increasing of revenues. He
recommended that council take a look at next year's budget and
suggested cuts in program costs.
Cw. Moreno requested a pay plan report after the 5% increase.
Motion to consider beyond the 2-1/2% increase on April to
3-1/2, 4%, or 5% if possible.
Moved : Cm. Valdez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 6 Against: 0 Abstain: 1
Cw. Moreno
3. Status report regarding the Speed Hump Pilot Program being
developed by staff with possible action.
Luis Landin, Traffic Director, reported that 75% of the 12 streets
that were studied have been identified and 25% are pending. Study
will be complete within 2 months, at that time the cost will be
provided along with a full status report on this project.
D. Requests by Councilmember Mario G. Alvarado
1. Presentation by the South Texas International Summit Committee
recognizing the support and efforts of City Staff during the 1st
Annual South Texas International Youth Summit.
Diana Fullerton, from the Non-profit Volunteer Center, presented each
council with a plaque of appreciation to: Mayor Betty Flores, Mayor
Protem Perez, Cm. Bruni, Cm. Casso, Cw. Moreno, Cm. Valdez, Cm.
Guerra, Cm. Alvarado, Cw. Montalvo, City Manager Florencio Pena,
Parks & Recreation Department, and the Public Works Department.
XI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
41. Public hearing approving the amendment to the contract with the Texas
Department of Health and budget in the amount of $235,954.00, in
additional funds for the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) of the City
of Laredo Health Department for the period September 1, 1997, through
August 31, 1998.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Approving the amendment to the contract with the Texas Department of
Health and budget in the amount of $235,954.00, in additional funds
for the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) of the City of Laredo Health
Department for the period September 1, 1997, through August 31, 1998.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
42. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances by
creating Article IX of Chapter 21, titled "Noise Nuisances," thereby
establishing an article regulating excessive noise, declaring noise
nuisances and providing for a penalty thereof; deleting subsection 21-
17(5) concerning general nuisances which having been incorporated into
Article IX.; deleting Chapter 28, Article IV. titled Sound
Amplification Devices, which having been incorporated into Article IX.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo Code of Ordinances by creating Article IX
of Chapter 21, titled "Noise Nuisances," thereby establishing an
article regulating excessive noise, declaring noise nuisances and
providing for a penalty thereof; deleting subsection 21-17(5)
concerning general nuisances which having been incorporated into
Article IX.; deleting Chapter 28, Article IV. titled Sound
Amplification Devices, which having been incorporated into Article IX;
providing for an effective date and publication.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Mayor Protem Perez stated that this needs to be brought before the
youth, specially the school council and that it should not be too
stringent in the respect towards the youth.
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
43. Public hearing amending Section 24.82 of the Laredo Land Development
Code by allowing for the use of temporary signage along US and State
Highways during times of reconstruction on those highways. The
Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval of the amendment.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending Section 24.82 of the Laredo Land Development Code by allowing
for the use of temporary signage along US and State Highways during
times of reconstruction on those highways; providing for publication
and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cm. Bruni
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Keith Selman, Planning Director, asked that one provision of the
ordinance be revised in terms of allowing the use of
temporary signs for a change that currently states the reconstruction
provides for only 2 moving lanes and would like to change to 3 lanes
because during Phase II of the
reconstrucion, it will go to 3 lanes versus 2.
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
44. Public hearing amending ordinance 96-O-198 of the code of ordinances
of the City of Laredo to permit two-way traffic northbound and
southbound on the 100 to 300 blocks of San Pablo Avenue on a three (3)
block segment between Iturbide and Water Streets; and authorizing the
City Manager to take the necessary steps to enforce this ordinance and
for providing publication and effective date.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending ordinance 96-O-198 of the code of ordinances of the City of
Laredo to permit two-way traffic northbound and southbound on the 100
to 300 blocks of San Pablo Avenue on a three (3) block segment between
Iturbide and Water Streets and authorizing the City Manager to take
the necessary steps to enforce this ordinance and for providing
publication and effective date.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
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 : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: Cw. Montalvo
45. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Annual Budget
by authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment (increase) to
the Laredo Municipal Transit Systems FY 1997-98 operating budget
(revenue and expenditures; Fund 558) in the amount of $5,998.00, from
$7,031,497.00 to $7,037,495.00; by transferring funds from the transit
sales tax proceeds budget reserve account (Fund 518) to facilitate 1
hour extended bus service on Monday through Thursday to Route 16 -
TAMIU.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Annual Budget by authorizing
the City Manager to execute an amendment (increase) to the Laredo
Municipal Transit Systems FY 1997-98 operating budget (revenue and
expenditures; Fund 558) in the amount of $5,998.00, from $7,031,497.00
to $7,037,495.00; by transferring funds from the transit sales tax
proceeds budget reserve account (Fund 518) to facilitate 1 hour
extended bus service on Monday through Thursday to Route 16 -TAMIU.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Montalvo
Second: Cw. Moreno
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
There was no public input.
Motion to close the public hearing and introduce the ordinance.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
Second: Cm. Valdez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
46. Public hearing amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Hotel-Motel
budget in the amount of $36,454.00, to be used for direct advertising
and other related expenditures. These monies result from excess FY
1996-1997 balances in the Hotel-Motel fund from prior year collected
taxes; and authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE
Amending the City of Laredo's FY 1997-98 Hotel-Motel budget in the
amount of $36,454.00, to be used for direct advertising and other
related expenditures. These monies result from excess FY 1996-1997
balances in the Hotel-Motel fund from prior year collected taxes; and
authorizing the City Manager to implement said budget.
Motion to open the public hearing.
Moved : Cw. Moreno
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. Guerra
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Ordinance Introduction: City Council
XII. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MUNICIPAL HOUSING
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Municipal
Housing.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
47. Authorizing the Laredo Municipal Housing Corporation (LMHC) Director
to submit an application to the Webb County Appraisal District for
recognition of property tax exemption during 1998 for the fifty (50)
lots and improvements at the Riverhills Subdivision, Unit I under the
LMHC Lease/Purchase Program. The property tax exemption will enable
LMHC to save the necessary funds that will be applied to the
downpayment and closing costs for the Lease/Purchase Program. The Webb
County Appraisal District has already approved the property tax
exemption for 1997. LMHC has been advised that it will be necessary to
apply for this exemption on a yearly basis since the tax exemption is
not renewed automatically.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Municipal Housing and convene
as City Council.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIII. 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 : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cw. Montalvo
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
48. Authorization to solicit bids for the purchase of operator uniforms.
A total of 600 shirts and 300 trousers will be purchased for all El
Metro Bus Drives. A tentative bid award
date is scheduled for April 6, 1998. Funding is available in Transit
System, Vehicle Operations, Uniforms.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Casso
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
49. Award of a two year contract to the LOW BIDDER, Unifirst, Laredo,
Texas, in the estimated amount of $34,720.40, for providing uniforms,
entrance mats, shop aprons, dispenser towels, and laundry service for
the Transit Systems Maintenance Department and Transit Center
personnel. The contract will include weekly laundry service for
thirty six maintenance employees and eight Transit Center employees.
This service is provided in accordance to the terms of the collective
bargaining agreement. A total of two bids were received for this
contract. Funding is available in Transit System-Vehicle Maintenance-
Contractual Services, Uniforms, Non Vehicle Maintenance-Contractual
Services, Uniforms, Transit System-Transit Center Uniform Rental.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
50. Motion to amend the contract with Nova Bus, Inc., Roswell, New Mexico,
for the Purchase of eight 35-foot CNG transit buses, by adding a spare
bus power plant (engine, transmission and related accessories). The
amendment would increase the amount of the contract by $71,486.05, to
$2,570,614.05.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to recess as The Mass Transit Board and convene as
City Council.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Perez
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XIV. MOTION TO RECESS AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
Motion to recess as City Council and convene as The Laredo Convention and
Visitors Bureau.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
51. Approval of contract with the Laredo Chamber of Commerce to provide
promotion and tourist information in Mexico and agreeing to reimburse
50% of the Chamber of Commerce's operations cost of the Infocenter
which is $21,500.00.
Motion to approve.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Guerra
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
Motion to adjourn as The Laredo Conventions and Visitors Bureau and
convene as City Council.
Moved : Cm. Guerra
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
XV. ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn. Time: 9:25 p.m.
Moved : Cm. Perez
Second: Cm. Bruni
For: 7 Against: 0 Abstain: 0
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE ABOVE MINUTES CONTAINED IN PAGES 01 TO 30
ARE TRUE, COMPLETE, AND CORRECT PROCEEDINGS OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
HELD ON THE 2ND DAY OF MARCH, 1998. A CERTIFIED COPY IS ON AT THE CITY
SECRTARY'S OFFICE.
________________________
GUSTAVO GUEVARA, JR.
CITY SECRETARY
Minutes Prepared by: Angelica Feurtado