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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/21/1982MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING JULY 21, 1982 2:00 P.M. PRESENT: Mayor Luther Jones Mayor Pro Tem Betty Turner Council Members: Jack K. Dumphy Herbert L. Hawkins, Jr. Dr. Charles W. Kennedy, Jr. Cliff Zarsky City Manager Edward Martin Assistant City Attorney Bob Coffin City Secretary Bill G. Read Absent: Council Member Bob Gulley Mayor Luther Jones called the meeting to order in the Council Chamber of City, Hall. The invocation was given by The Reverend Marvin Hicks of Calvary I abernacle Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Mayor Pro Tem Betty N. Turner. City Secretary Bill G. Read called the roll of required Charter Officers and verified that the necessary quorum was present to conduct a legally con- stituted meeting. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for the bid opening on the following engineering project: 1. Modifications to the air conditioning and heating system at the Greenwood Branch Library, The specifications provide for a new water chiller and replacement of the existing duct work in the crawl space under the building. A new boiler will also be provided for the building heating system. The existing air conditioning and heating equipment is gas fired and was installed in 1966 with parts for the equipment no longer being made. The project is included in the 1981-82 General Revenue Sharing budget. City Secretary Read informed the Council that one bid was placed on his desk after 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. He explained that the gentleman who turned in the bid stated that according to his watch that it was two minutes until 2 o'clock; however, according to the clock in the Council Chamber It was after 2:00 p.m. when it was received. Assistant City Manager James K. Lontos explained that bids should not be accepted after the time scheduled unless there is just cause. He informed the ,Q.EILMED SEP 191994 Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 2 • JO i3 VAna Council that the specifications clearly state that the bids are to be submitted to the. Officeof the City Secretary prior to 2:00 p.m. and he recommended that the bid not be opened since this is clearly stated in those specifications. Discussion followed as to whether or not the bid should be opened, and it was the consensus of the Council that the bid should not be opened. Mr. Lontos then opened bids on this project from the following companies: Anslinger, Inc.; McDonald & Miller Mechanical Contracting Co.; and Weathertrol, Inc. Mr. Lontos informed the Council that disclosure statements and bid security bonds had been submitted with each bid. 2. Renovation and enlargement of the rental car parking lot to increase the number of spaces from 75 to 133. Assistant City Manager Lontos opened bids on this project from the following firms: APCCO; C & C Industrial Builders; Heldenfels Brothers, Inc.; M & M Construction Co.; and A-1 Plumbing Company. He verified that the necessary bid security bonds and disclosure statements had been submitted with each of the bids. 3. Landscaping of the Airport entrance road with palm trees and oleanders and landscaping of the area between the rental car lot and the loop road. Mr. Lontos then opened bids on the last project from the following companies: American Roofing & Construction Co.; Bay, Inc.; Curries, Inc.; Gill Landscape Nursery; Salazar Construction Co.; Sprinkler King of Texas; and Turner Landscape Company. Mr. Lontos informed the Council that all companies had either submitted bid security bonds or checks but two of the companies submitting bids failed to include a disclosure statement. He explained, however, that these could be submitted before the contract is awarded. He noted that this is the first day that bidders have been required to submit disclosure statements. Mayor Jones expressed appreciation to all of the bidders who had submitted bids and stated that they will be tabled for 48 hours, pursuant to the requirements of the City Charter, and referred to the staff for tabulation and recommendation. City Manager Martin reminded the Council that they had decided to divide the contract between the parking lot improvements at the Airport and the landscape improvements noting that the result was that more landscape firms submitted bids. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 3 ************* Mayor Jones called for consideration of actions of the City Council by motion on the following items: 1. The kitchen equipment project at the Corpus Christi Convention Center be accepted and final payment of $20,112.60, for a total of $201,126, be made to Southern Food Equipment, Inc. This project provided for the installation of kitchen and concession equipment including ovens, broilers, sinks, refrigeration facilities, ice machines, beer dispensers, dishwashers, a walk-in freezer, coffee and popcorn equipment, exhaust and ventilation facilities and a fire control system and was funded from interest earnings on the 1976 Convention Center Bonds. 2. The Corpus Christi Marina Boat Slip Addition project on the L -Head be accepted and payment of $77,618.67 be made to the Goldston Corporation. It is recommended that $2,000 be retained for payment at a later date upon delivery and installation of light fixtures pre- viously ordered. It is further recommended that the contractor be granted a 108 -day time extension because of non-delivery of electrical and lighting materials. The boat slips were put into use by the City in December, 1981. The total cost of this 1977 bond project was $382,681.70. 3. The Oso Municipal Golf Course Irrigation System project be accepted and final payment of $101,808.90 be made to Sprinkler King of Texas, Inc. It is further recommended that an 11 day time extension be granted the contractor to supplement the 90 day allotted working time. Through no fault of the contractor, he received defective PVC fittings which he had to replace in substantial numbers. The total cost of this project which provided for the installation of an automatic irrigation system on all 18 holes on the Oso Golf Course is $210,780.00. 4. The Marina Improvements and Kiwanis Recreation Center Project be accepted and final payment of $12,833.50 for a total of $111,254.83 be made to B.E. Beecroft Company. A new bait stand was reconstructed on the L -Head and the Kiwanis Recreation Center at the Corpus Christi Beach was repaired, both damaged by Hurricane Allen in 1980. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has obligated themselves for seventy-tive percent assistance for the Kiwanis project; however, due to FEMA policy on Coastal High Hazard Areas, the City has not received a commitment for Federal participation on the bait stand. The total cost of the bait stand is $54,100 and for the Kiwanis Recration Center is $57,154. 5. The Parker Park Pavilion Project be accepted and final payment of $12,320, for a total of $35,000, be made to Gulf Coast Construction Company. Due to a delay in delivery of materials, it is recommended that a five day time extension be granted to supplement the allotted 30 day working time on the project. The 1 ,800 square foot shelter was built in the northwest corner of Parker Park in Flour Bluff and was funded from the 6th Year Community Development Block Grant. *6. The agreement between the City and the Westside Business Association (approved April 14, 1982) be amended to provide the following: a. a one year extension be granted for the date of project comple- tion from October 31 , 1983 to October 31 , 1984, and b. reimbursement of funds be made directly to the Westside Business Association for the services of the contract sculptor, Dr. Sherman Coleman, on a reimbursement basis as the statue is constructed. This item was withdrawn from consideration until further information is available. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 4 /. An agreement be executed between the City and the Art Community Center providing for the City to pay $8,848 for payment of costs associated with a mural competition and the selected artist's execution of a 8 feet by 20 feet mural proposed to be located in the lobby of the Bayfront Convention Center. The $8,848 is the remaining balance of the $44,000 budgeted for Arts Support in the 1981-82 Tourist and Convention Development Fund budget. 8. ARCO Oil & Gas Company application for a permit to drill a well from a regular location 4.5 miles in a northeasterly direction from the Naval Air Station be granted. The Corpus Christi Bay State Tract 470 Well No. 7 will be directionally drilled to a depth of 9,500 ft. No exceptions to the Bay Drilling Ordinance are requested. 9. Replacement heavy duty trucks be purchased as follows on the basis of low bid: Tradewinds Ford Sales, Corpus Christi: 4 10,000 gross vehicle weight (GVW) cabs and chassis for the Wastewater Services and Water Divisions including two with service bodies for the Signs & Markings activity of the Traffic and Transit Dept. $ 37,755.40 8 20,000 GVW cabs and chassis for the Street Division with 5 with dump bodies 113,725.07 4 20,000 GVW cabs and chassis for the Park Division -- 2 with brush bodies, one with stake body and one with trash body 63,054.63 1 20,000 GVW cab and chassis for Wastewater Services 12,612.81 3 23,000 GVW cabs and chassis for the Wastewater Services 45,100.16 1 23,000 GVW cab and chassis with oil field body for the Gas Division 19,497.98 Total - $291,746.05 Edaburn, International, Corpus Christi: 4 20,000 GVW cab and chassis for the Sanitation Division $ 56,189.12 Grand Total - $347,935.17 Bids were received from three firms. The trucks will all be 1983 models. Prices have increased approximately 20% since the last bid on 1981 models. All trucks are recommended with gasoline engines except for the four for Sanitation which are recommended with propane engines on an experimental basis. Alternative bids were solicited for diesel engines on the 20,000 and 23,000 GVW trucks. The low bids on the diesel engines were $4,000 to $5,000 higher per unit than for gasoline engines. A staff analysis indicates that the initial difference in cost between the gasoline and diesel engines will not be offset by the greater fuel efficiency of diesel engines over the expected life and mileage of the trucks. 10. A blanket waterline easement at the old Greenwood Incinerator site be released in order to clear the title in favor of LULAC so that the HUD loan for the scheduled housing project may be closed. The Water Division reports that no waterlines are located in the premises except in the utility easements dedicated by plat. 11. A sublease between Hidden Harbor Associates and Sparkling City Enterprises be approved for the purpose of obtaining a Texas Liquor License. The State Liquor Control Board will not issue a Liquor Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 5 License to any entity whose partner is not a Texas resident. Sparkling City Enterprises has been formed to comply with the require- ments of the Board so that operations may begin by August 1, 1982. There were no comments from the Council or the audience on these actions. A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner that the foregoing items 1 through 11, with the exception of item 6 which was withdrawn, be approved; seconded by Council Member Hawkins; and passed unanimously. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for actions of the City Council by ordinance, addressing first the new ordinances. City Manager Martin called attention to the ordinance listed as "k" which authorizes execution of a contract with Arthur Young & Company for pro- fessional services to assist the City in developing an automated financial system and informed the Council that the staff had discussed the possibility of this work being performed by members of the staff of Corpus Christi State Univer- sity and they do not teel that they can handle this program, therefore, the staff recommends approval of the contract with Arthur Young & Company. Mayor Jones called for comments from the audience on the new ordinances. Mr. Ted Jones referred to the resolution endorsing the United States Army Corps of Engineers plan for completing the 45' inner harbor project and stated that an ad hoc committee of environmentalists and sportsmen had discussed the plan to dispose of dredge material on the south shore of Nueces Bay and it was their understanding that Mr. Harry Plomarity of the Port had stated that the McGregor site planned for disposal would have no negative effects on the environ- ment. He pointed out that on the McGregor site, there are 400 acres of fresh water marsh and under the plan that this Council plans to endorse, there would possibly be arsenic levels in the environment if disposal is made on this site. Mr. Jones continued by stating that evidently the Corps of Engineers and the City Council have ignored the fact that the public opinion survey conducted by Dr. Bob Bezdek of Corpus Christi State University indicated that two to one citizens surveyed were opposed to the placement of spoils in Nueces Bay. He questioned why the Council plans to endorse this plan when he and that many others feel that it would be detrimental. ************* Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 6 Mayor Jones then called for consideration of the second and third reading ordinances. City Manager Martin suggested that the Council consider amending the ordinance increasing the gas rate and also amending the water rate increase ordinance. He explained that the revised changes in the gas rate ordinance consist of the method of billing the customer for gas. He explained that currently the City's method is to average the cost of gas for the entire year, but with the proposed revision, the gas billing will be changed to include the cost of gas service and the cost of the gas purchased which will change monthly according to the exact amount of the cost of gas. He noted, however, that only one figure will be placed on the bills. A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the motion to amend prior to second reading on the gas rate increase ordinance be approved; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner; and passed unanimously. City Manager Martin then referred to the second reading of the water rate increase ordinance and noted that according to the amendment proposed, the customer who uses less than 2,000 gallons monthly will actually have a decrease in their rates. He noted that the revenue lost from this source would be made up by increases in cost of very large OCL customers. He explained that the staff has made some adjustments on water consumption, and using these figures, the increase in the water rates will be 5.4%. He noted that the average customer increase would represent only $1.54 per month. He stated that if the ordinance is passed, as amended, the new rates will take effect for services used in August; therefore, this will represent an 11 month increase rather than a 12 -month increase. Mayor Jones questioned how many people would normally use only 2,000 gallons of water per month, and Mayor Pro Tem Turner suggested that 3,000 gallons be the minimum set. City Manager Martin stated that approximately 13% of the people use only 2,000 gallons of water. Council Member Hawkins also suggested that 3,000 gallons be the minimum set, with no increase, rather than a decrease for users of less than 2,000 gallons so that more customers would realize the savings. Minutes Kegular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 7 City Manager Martin stated that if the minimum is increased to 3,000 gallons, then the required funds to operate the water department and debt service would necessitate a charge or increase the charge for all other customers. He explained to the Council that surveys of various cities have been made and it has been determined that the average minimum is below 2,000 gallons. A motion was made by Council Member Dumphy that the water rate increase ordinance be amended prior to second reading as recommended by the staff; seconded by Council Member Zarsky and passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley and Kennedy absent at the time the vote was taken. Council Member Zarsky referred to the second reading amending the waste- water rates to provide for a 4$ increase in the minimum charge and a 3.7% increase in the rates for additional consumption and suggested that it would be more fair to have the industrial users pay more of the wastewater cost than to have all customers pay wastewater fees based on the amount of water usage. Mr. Douglas Matthews, Director of Public Utilities, informed the Council that 15,000 gallons of water is the maximum on which wastewater fees are based. He commented that in the Westside Wastewater Treatment Plant, the staff has discovered that someone is dumping illegally a highly toxic industrial waste. He also reviewed and explained that large wastewater users in the City pay a higher fee than other users. Mayor Jones referred to the third reading of the rate changes recommended for Central Power & Light Company and explained to the audience that the Council feels that some rate increase is necessary to assure that the City will have service. He stated that if the City Council does not approve this $72,862,000 per annum increase, a much higher rate increase could be set by the Public Utility Commission. Council Member Hawkins expressed the opinion that he felt it is a disgrace to increase basic services costs and not increase the golf rates. City Manager Martin explained that those will be addressed next week. Mayor Jones called for comments from the audience on the second and third reading ordinances. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 8 Mr. Paul Earls, 4433 Dolphin, spoke in regard to the slip fee charges at the Marina. He objected to the increases, stating that there are no restrooms; there is poor security; and the regulations governing the operation of the boat slips are not properly enforced. He alleged that the average boat owner is not getting enough for his money. He also pointed out that this marina has no showers or any other facilities and expressed the opinion that if better conditions existed, more out of town boat owners would be attracted to this City. Mr. Chet Milczarek, 529 Fairfield, pointed out to the Council that every- thing is increasing in cost, including all City utility rates, which makes Corpus Christi a very expensive place in which to live. He stated that he was of the opinion that the City is not being operated as efticiently as possible. He questioned where various figures pertaining to the budget are available so that he could understand exactly how the operating costs are calculated. City Manager Martin assured Mr. Milczarek that a copy of the summary can be provided him. Council Member Zarsky reminded him that this City had a study made by the Texas Research League. He noted that their report was published a few years ago which indicated that this City was operated more reasonably than any City in Texas and the City's rates are somewhat lower than other cities. Mayor Jones also stated that the Texas Research League report indicated that Corpus Christi is spending less per capita than any of the ten largest cities in Texas. Mrs. Dorothy Corcoran, 734 Chase, complimented the City Manager for getting the budget prepared and for his efficient operation of the City. She stated that she does not object to the increase in garbage rates, if the employees in that department do a good job, but they are not. She explained the poor service she was experiencing from that department. In a reference to the marina slip rental cost increase, she stated that she feels the boat owners should pay the expenses of the marina and also that someone should keep that area clean, particularly in the vicinity where the commercial boats are docked. She suggested that if the commercial boat owners do not keep the area clean, they should be assessed for the work having to be performed by the City. Mrs. Elizabeth Price, 4309 Loma Alta, stated that she is very upset and worried about the increases in the gas and water rates. She stated that she is Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 9 also concerned about the additional taxes generated by the revaluation of property. She pointed out that it would be almost impossible for people living on a fixed income to pay increased water and gas rates. She also objected strenuously to anything else being constructed on the bayfront. Mayor Jones pointed out to her that senior citizens will receive an $18,000 tax exemption on their homes plus 10% as other homeowners do. Mr. Rincon Renovia, agreed with Mrs. Price's comments and stated that he is 66 years old and will certainly have difficulty in paying all of the increases in rates and increases in taxes that will be required. There were no further comments from the audience on the ordinances; City Secretary Read polled the Council for their votes; and the foliowing ordinances were passed. FIRST READING: AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 16862, APPOINTING ELECTION OFFICIALS AND SPECIAL CANVASSING BOARD FOR ABSENTEE BALLOTING FOR ALL MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS FOR 1982, SO AS TO APPOINT NEW JUDGES, ALTER- NATE JUDGES AND MEMBERS OF THE SPECIAL CANVASSING BOARD FOR THE CHARTER AMENDMENT ELECTION TO BE HELD AUGUST 14, 1982. The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. FIRST READING: AMENDING SECTION 6-32 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS FOR THE RENEWAL OR CONTINUATION OF AN EXISTING PERMIT FOR A PROHIBITED ANIMAL. The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. FIRST READING: AMENDING CHAPTER 36 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO INCREASE RENTAL RATES FOR THE CONVENTION CENTER, AUDITORIUM, COLISEUM, AND EXPOSITION HALL. The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. FIRST READING: AUTHORIZING FARM LEASES AT THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOR A TERM OF FIVE YEARS. The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. FIRST READING: Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 10 AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH AERONAUTICAL RADIO, INC., FOR TWO-WAY RADIO SYSTEM AT THE CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE 17130: AUTHORIZING MODIFICATION TO LEASE AGREEMENT WITH AMERICAN AIR- LINES, INC., FOR ADDITIONAL TICKET COUNTER SPACE AT THE CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17131: APPROPRIATING $4,320 FOR CHANGE ORDERS APPROVED DURING THE INSTALLA- TION OF KITCHEN AND CONCESSION EQUIPMENT AT THE CONVENTION CENTER; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17132: AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT PROVIDING FOR CITY PARTICIPATION IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF WILDEROCK DRIVE; APPROPRIATING $19,858.28 FOR THE CITY'S PARTICIPATION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17133: AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT WITH MORMAC CONSTRUCTION CO. FOR CONSTRUC- TION OF GLENOAK STORM SEWER; APPROPRIATING $276,000 FOR THE CONTRACT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17134: INCREASING THE TRANSIT FUND NO. 118 ESTIMATED REVENUES $99,716; INCREASING APPROPRIATIONS $99,716 AND AUTHORIZING AN APPROPRIATION OF $73,068.00 TO REIMBURSE THE URBAN MASS TRANSPORTATION ADMINIS- TRATION FOR OVERPAYMENT OF OPERATING GRANT FUNDS; INCREASING THE TRANSIT FUND RESERVE $26,680; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17135: AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT WITH ARTHUR YOUNG & CO., CPA'S, FOR DEVELOPING AN ON-LINE AUTOMATED FINANCIAL SYSTEM; APPROPRIATING $98,660 FOR THE CONTRACT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 11 RESOLUTION NO. 17136: ENDORSING THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS' SELECTED PLAN FOR COMPLETING THE 45 -FOOT INNER HARBOR PROJECT AND DISPOSING OF THE DREDGED MATERIAL ON THE SOUTH SHORE OF NUECES BAY WITHOUT FURTHER DELAY; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing resolution was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Hawkins "no", and Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17137: APPROPRIATING $4,943.53 FOR CONTRACT PAYMENT TO THE PADRE ISLAND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION FOR NEW WASTEWATER SERVICE CONNECTIONS ON THE KENNEDY CAUSEWAY; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17138: CLOSING AND ABANDONING THE 14 FOOT ALLEY WHICH DIVIDES BLOCK 20, CHAMBERLAIN ADDITION; PROVIDING THAT THE ALLEY REVERTS TO ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNERS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17139: CLOSING THE RIGHT OF WAY OF CANAL STREET FROM NORTH SHORELINE BOULEVARD TO CORPUS CHRISTI BAY SUBJECT TO CERTAIN CONDITIONS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Turner "abstained"; Hawkins "no", Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING THE CORPUS CHRISTI CITY CODE, AS AMENDED BY REPEALING CERTAIN PROVISIONS, AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS AND ADOPTING AND READOPTING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 49, ARTICLE II, ENTITLED "STREET, SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER, AND DRIVEWAY CONSTRUCTION", SO AS TO ADOPT A POLICY OF STREET PAVING ASSESSMENTS DESIGNATED AS SECTION 49-21; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; ESTABLISHING A MAXIMUM ASSESSMENT RATE TO BE PAID FOR CURBS, GUTTERS, STREET IMPROVEMENT AND SIDEWALKS; PROVIDING FOR SEVER- ABILITY; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17140: AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 16079, PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON FEBRUARY 25, 1981, CONCERNING SALE OF CERTAIN SURPLUS PROPERTY TO LULAC FOR HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY AND HANDICAPPED, SO AS TO SUBORDINATE THE CONDITION OF SALE TO ANY INTERESTS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley "absent." Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 12 SECOND READING: AUTHORIZING AN ANNEXATION CONTRACT WITH GLEN W. TAYLOR, INC., AFTER THE NOTICE AND HEARING, FOR THE ANNEXATION OF A 3.82 ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF NUECES RIVER IRRIGATION PARK ANNEX NO. 1. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AUTHORIZING AN ANNEXATION CONTRACT WITH RIVERSIDE HOSPITAL, INC., AFTER THE NOTICE AND HEARING, FOR THE ANNEXATION OF A 11.427 ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOT 2, BLOCK 1, NUECES RIVER IRRIGATION PARK. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING SECTION 55-50 OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES, 1976 REVISIONS AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NO. 16446 AND 16593, PASSED AND APPROVED AUGUST 12, 1981 AND OCTOBER 14, 1981 RESPECTIVELY, BY AMENDING CERTAIN SCHEDULES THEREIN SO AS TO INCREASE WATER RATES FOR CUSTOMERS USING TREATED OR UNTREATED WATER. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS, VOLUME II, CHAPTER 55 UTILITIES, ARTICLE IV, GAS RATES AND CHARGES, SECTION 66-61 CLASSIFICATION OF CUSTOMERS AND SCHEDULES OF RATES, AS SET FORTH IN ORDINANCE NO. 16451, AS AMENDED, SO AS TO CHANGE THE SCHEDULE OF GAS RATES FOR ALL CUSTOMERS TO THE CITY -OWNED GAS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM BY PROVIDING A NEW SCHEDULE OF RATES FOR ALL GAS CUSTOMERS; PROVIDING FOR RATE ADJUSTMENT TO PASS ON TO THE CONSUMER THE FULL AMOUNT OF SUCH COST OF GAS; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING A SEVERANCE CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING SECTION 55-100 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, 1976 REVISION, SO AS TO PROVIDE CERTAIN INCREASES IN WASTEWATER RATES; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR SEVER- ABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING SECTIONS 21-7, 21-18 THROUGH 21-21.1, AND 21-46 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES SO AS TO INCREASE GARBAGE COLLECTION AND DISPOSAL CHARGES APPROXIMATELY FIVE PER CENT (5%) EFFECTIVE WITH THE FIRST BILLING CYCLE IN THE MONTH OF AUGUST, 1982: PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 13 The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, BY AMENDING ARTICLE II, MARINA, SECTION 12-61, "RATES AND RENTAL FEES FOR USE OF SLIP AND DOCK SPACE SCHEDULE AND REGULATIONS"; INCREASING SLIPS RATES TO SIX CENTS (6') PER SQUARE FOOT PER MONTH, PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING:" AMENDING SECTION 36-8 OF THE CORPUS CHRISTI CITY CODE, 1976, AS AMENDED, SO AS TO ESTABLISH NEW ATHLETIC LEAGUE TEAM FEES AND A FEE FOR THE USE OF SOFTBALL FIELDS FOR SOFTBALL PRACTICE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The 'foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the'following vote: Jones, Turner, D,umphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND' READING: - AMENDING SECTION 36-7 OF THE CORPUS CHRISTI CITY CODE, 1976, -AS AMENDED, SO AS TO ESTABLISH NEW SPLASH PARTY FEES;, PROVIDING- AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. Ti-• e foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING:- AMENDING EADING:AMENDING THE PLATTING ORDINANCE NO. 4168 TO REFLECT AMENDMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN MADE TO ARTICLE 974(a) OF VERNON'S TEXAS CIVIL STATUTES AND A FEE STRUCTURE TO COVER ADMINISTRATIVE AND REVIEW COSTS `OF THIS PROCESS. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING SECTION 6-21 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES SO AS TO ESTABLISH AN IMPOUNDMENT FEE OF $25.00 FOR LIVESTOCK; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING SECTION 19-61 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES TO PROVIDE A REVISED SCHEDULE OF FEES FOR FOOD SERVICE PERMITS; TO PROVIDE FOR REDUCED FEES ON A PRORATED BASIS FOR PERMITS ISSUED IN CERTAIN MONTHS OF THE YEAR; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 14 SECOND READING: AMENDING THE PLATTING ORDINANCE, BY AMENDING_.SECTION •V - REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS, SUBSECTION B, MINIMUM` STANDARDS,• BY CHANGING PARAGRAPH 11 STREET LIGHTS. ;. w •.„.;,,=.. ,4•r _ The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and `passed "to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: APPROPRIATING $14,000 FROM THE MUSEUM BOND FUND ' NO:\263 FOR PROJECT NO. 263-77-1 CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM, COMPLETION OF EXHIBIT SPACE IN THE NORTH WING. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. SECOND READING: AMENDING CHAPTER 43, CODE OF ORDINANCES, BY ADDING A NEW SECTION 43-11, CHARGES FOR COPIES OF ACCIDENT AND CRIMINAL POLICE REPORTS. The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17141: MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; APPROVING CHANGES IN RATES,- WHICH, IF IMPLEMENTED IN ALL AREAS SERVED BY CENTRAL POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY, WOULD BE REASONABLY CALCULATED TO YIELD AN ADDITIONAL $72,862,000 PER ANNUM IN REVENUES TO CENTRAL POWER AN LIGHT COMPANY; APPORTIONING THE REVENUE INCREASE TO EACH CLASS OF SERVICE; AUTHORIZING THE COMPANY TO IMPLEMENT WITHIN THE CITY CHANGES IN RATES EFFECTIVE JULY 29, 1982. The foregoing was read for the third and final time and passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Gulley absent. ORDINANCE NO. 17129: Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky .voting "aye"; AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A 30 -YEAR LEASE AGREEMENT WITH T -HEAD MARINA FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A MARINA OFFICE, FUEL STATION, PUBLIC RESTROOMS, PATIO BAR RESTAURANT AND RETAIL SALES CONCESSION AREA FACILITIES ON THE LAWRENCE STREET T -HEAD. The foregoing was read for the third and final time and passed by the following vote: Jones, Turner, Dumphy, Hawkins, Kennedy and Zarsky voting "aye"; Gulley absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones announced the public hearing on the following matter: 2. Amendment to the Platting Ordinance related to street construction standards in the Flour Bluff and Padre and Mustang Island portions of the City. The proposed changes are necessary. because of ground -water problems encountered in the development of subdivisions in the area. Cement stabilized caliche or hot -mix asphalt concrete would be permitted as base material. Assistant City Manager Lontos explained that it is difficult in Flour Bluff to comply with the platting ordinance because of the ground water problems Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 15 encountered and the staff recommends two changes: 1) The change involves street construction and would specifically prohibit the use of caliche for streets in Flour Bluff unless such caliche was stabilized with 7% Portland cement. The 7% figure is based on recommendations from the Portland Cement Institute and 2) The change would also permit an alternate base section of hot mix asphaltic concrete in lieu of caliche in this area. He informed the Council that this change would increase the cost of lots in subdivisions in Flour Bluff by about $300. Mr. Lontos stated that it is further recommended that the platting ordi- nance change include Padre Island also since similar problems exist there. Council Member Zarsky pointed out that the City Council and the Engineering staff should be aware of a study made by the National Association of Home Builders which provides information on the method of street building in the City of Corpus Christi. He pointed out that the Increase in cost is signi- ficant because of the unreasonable requirements of the City for street con- struction. He pointed out that if the criteria for street construction in Flour Blutt is changed from that of other areas of the City, the result will be much higher costs for the subdivision sale of lots. *Council Member Kennedy arrived at the meeting at 4:05 p.m. Mr. Lontos stated that he will compare the information compiled by the National Association of Home Builders with the recommendation of the staff. He stated that this information has been presented to the Planning Commission but it has not been discussed with professionals in that field. Mr. Murray Bass of Munroe and Bass, stated that his company provides services to clients who will be affected by this change in the ordinance. He expressed the opinion that further study and testing should be accomplished before this amendment is passed. He stated that in his opinion the 4" stabilized caliche is probably more substantial than the caliche used in other parts of the City and that he felt that a better solution could be derived. He stated that he felt that individual testing should be done for the soil conditions in different areas and suggested a certain amount of latitude for the staff to approve so that they can consider plans on an individual basis rather than have these same standards for the entire area mentioned. Mayor Jones requested that he provide written recommendations to the Council on what he thinks should be done, and Mr. Bass agreed to do so. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 16 Mayor Jones explained that the City is considering these "amendments because the developer constructs the streets, then leaves the area, and the City has to repair and maintain the streets. Mr. Bass agreed that there is a problem but he felt that another solution would be preferable. Assistant City Manager Lontos pointed out that cement stabilization of the natural material probably would present more problems than other methods. He assured the Council that studies have been made on this subject. He also stated that his experience in allowing for judgement on individual cases has not been practical because every developer would construct at minimum requirements and the City would find it almost impossible to make different approvals for different subdividers. Council Member Zarsky stated that he has been very pleased with the cement stabilization of the natural materials and objected to approving this change in the ordinance. Mr. George Puls, General Manager of Texas Industries local operation, stated that they are interested in the proposed change for the Flour Bluff vicinity. He stated that he would like to have a member of his firm address the Council on this subject. Mr. Paul Beckman of Texas Industries stated that he has had 21 years experience working with base for street construction. He stated that with this or any other material he would hate to see a definite percentage of cement required in the ordinance because it may be too ,much for a particular material or it may not be enough. He stated that he would be glad to provide recommendations from the cement company. Council Member Kennedy stated that he felt that there are problems with the proposed change, and possibly the City should arrive at some sort of different evaluation by obtaining information from other cities with similar soil conditions. Mr. Harold Shearer, of Shearer Engineering Company, agreed with the previous remarks and stated that he knows there are problems in the Flour Bluff area. He informed the Council that his company ran a test to see how much cement is needed in caliche and in that test, approximately 3%, 4% or 5% cement was adequate for most soils. He pointed out that the more cement required, the more cost would be increased, and he was of the opinion that the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 17 7% requirement is excessive. He stated that he felt the required percentages could vary according to the soil conditions in Flour Bluff in different areas. Council Member Dumphy suggested that the ordinance list 7% requirement or a percentage based on acceptable testing. Mr. Shearer agreed that this would be a good plan so that the soil con- ditions could be tested and the percentage established according to the condi- tion determined by such testing. Mr. Lontos stated that he was of the opinion that the soil should be tested twice, once during design and once during construction, and if these tests are conducted, the City Engineers could agree to that. Mr. Buddy Seeds spoke on this subject and stated that he has developed a subdivision in Flour Bluff; they ran tests and used 3% cement in the caliche; and they anticipate that this will be adequate to prevent unusual deterioration. No one else spoke in regard to this subject. A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner that the hearing be closed, seconded by Council Member Hawkins and passed unanimously. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones announced the public hearing on the budget for 1982-83 fiscal year. The first speaker was Mrs. Donna Shirley, 3134 Catcay, who spoke in regard to the funding for the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department. Mrs. Shirley referred to the materials submitted to the Council the previous evening and briefly reviewed the statistics included in that study. She expressed the opinion that the Flour Bluff Fire Department was needed not only for grass fires but also for structural fires and urged that the City continue funding that Fire Department. Mr. Jack Ratkovic, 13911 Seahorse, informed the Council that he is the democratic chairman for one of the precincts in Flour Bluff. He stated that they plan to form a coalition of qualified citizens of Flour Bluff in order to have a candidate in the area to run for the City Council. He, too, urged funding of the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department. The next speaker was Mr. Bill Curry, 9814 Redbud, who stated that he had served on the Board of Equalization a number of terms and he still did not understand the Peveto Bill. Mr. Curry referred to the 10% homestead exemption which the Council proposes to grant to the homeowners and pointed out the inequities of this percentage noting that a homeowner who has a $30,000 Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 18 home would receive a $3,000 exemption, whereas a homeowner who owns a $300,000 home would receive a $30,000 exemption. He noted that there is no system in the City of determining which houses are homesteads and which are not. He expressed the opinion that establishing this percentage would be very difticult and suggested instead that they allow $10,000 to every homeowner rather than a percentage. Mayor Pro Tem Turner pointed out to Mr. Curry that the Council had suggested a 10% exemption or $5,000 whichever is greater. City Manager Martin agreed with Mr. Curry that the Peveto Bill is difficult to understand. He questioned Mr. Curry as to whether or not he felt the City could legally grant exemptions for certain amounts rather than a percentage. He stated that the City staff was of the opinion that a percentage was the only relief that could be granted. Mr. Curry replied that he was of the opinion that a flat dollar amount could be established. Mayor Jones agreed with Mr. Curry that a dollar amount for the exemption would be more fair. Mrs. Dodie Hummel!, representing the Corpus Christi Arts Council, stated that the Arts Council includes 40 cultural groups. She presented to the Council additional information on the hotel/motel tax issue. She stated that the Corpus Christi Arts Council supports at least one-half of 1% of the hotel -motel tax to be used to support art. She then requested that the Council Members read the information prepared by the Arts Council and establish a criteria for funding for the arts. Mr. Calvin Self, 1214 Graham Road, referred to the electrical inspection division of the City and stated that it was his understanding that only one inspector has been added to the budget, whereas, there is a need for at least three additional inspectors. He informed the Council that the Electrical Advisory Board will meet on Monday to consider increasing the permit fees. He registered a complaint about the lack of electrical inspections in that a number of them are not ever conducted. He also pointed out that, frequently, inspec- tors have to make second inspections because there are a number of out of town electricians who are not qualified for electrical work and cannot pass the test locally, yet they are granted permission to work in this City. He referred to the funding for the Flour Bluff Fire Department and also referred to the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 19 information provided by the Civic League. He noted that in 80% of the fires in the Flour Bluff -Padre Island area, the volunteers were the first on the scene and they provide good protection for that area. Mayor Jones asked the City Manager to provide the Council with informa- tion regarding the statement that 80% of the time the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department are the first on the scene. Council Member Kennedy pointed out thatthe critical thing is who actually puts water on the fire tirst. He agreed that possibly the Volunteer Fire Department truck arrives at the scene first, but not necessarily begins fighting the fire first. Council Member Zarsky questioned the statement that three electrical inspectors are needed, and City Manager Martin explained that the staff has just recommended that one additional inspector and one additional clerk be approved in the new budget. Dr. E. L. Holt, 6802 Pharaoh, a member of the advisory committee for Aid Ambulance, referred to the Fire Department budget. He noted that $60,000 was removed from the budget for inservice training for paramedics and EMT's. He pointed out that they require continuous training to be recertified. He noted that the current plan is that these men will be sent to Del Mar once a year for this additional training, and he was of the opinion that a more preferable method would be for the firemen under the Director of Paramedics be trained continuously in order to allow them to observe the paramedics when they are actually performing their duties in the ambulances in order to provide better training. He urged that the $60,000 be approved in the budget for this training. City Manager Martin explained that a request was received that the City employ two additional individuals and the necessary equipment at a cost of $48,000 which was to replace the training program. He pointed out that if $48,000 is removed from the budget, it would be necessary to pay overtime to existing employees if the additional people are not employed. He expressed the opinion that it has never been very successful to have in-house training for this program and he feels that the training at Del Mar would be preferable. Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, referred to the statement that the City has a "bare -boned budget" yet the budget has been increased. He expressed the opinion that there is a long way to go to really economize because the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 20 taxpayer needs relief. He referred to Police Department the preceding year, interest but nothing to be paid on the the purchase of a shooting range for the yet this year's budget has $52,000 for principal of this purchase. He referred to other expenses that really reflect increases and inquired as to where all the money has gone. He urged that the budget be further reduced in all areas. Mrs. Sarah Graham, President of the Tourist Bureau, referred to material presented to the Council. She stated that they were pleased with the amount to be budgeted to the Tourist Bureau and she was just present in the event the Council has questions. Mr. L. C. French, 3510 Aransas, informed the Council that he has appeared before the Board of Equalization many times in regard to revaluation of property. He stated he had encountered a situation on a reappraisal that was based on sales figures of another house over one-half mile away. He stated that he objected to this practice of establishing values of houses. Mayor Jones pointed out to Mr. French that the appraisals are no longer under the City, but are now under the Nueces County Tax Appraisal District. Mr. French inquired if it would be possible to check on this and asked what control the City has over this Tax Appraisal District. Mayor Jones explained that the City appoints two members to the Board and requested that Mr. French write to the Council so that the letter could be relayed to those members for answers to Mr. French's questions. City Manager Martin further explained that the City is not even aware of the appraisals because they do not have access to the figures from the County Tax Appraisal District yet. He assured Mr. French that as soon as the City has those figures, they will do spot checks to see if they are reasonable. Mr. P. M. Rushing, 3806 Perry Lane, referred to the development of Country Estates in Calallen. He informed the Council that they do not yet have City sewer service and stated that it was their soon, but the preceding this service is available. consequently are living in poverty conditions. He impression that they would have City sewer service week he was informed it would be two years before Mr. Rushing objected to the valuations set on his property and questioned why they do not yet have City services. Mayor Jones requested that the City Manager have this item on the agenda in two weeks to discuss the lack of sewer service in the area. Minutes Kegular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 21 Mr. Jack Gordy, 5802 Everhart, objected to the increase in gas and water rates and stated that no issue should be increased more than the cost of living. He pointed out that the citizens will have less money even though they earn more and suggested that basic services not be increased as much as recommended by the statf. He also objected to the Council Members' voting to include in the budget expenses for trips for their wives to go to out of town meetings. He pointed out that wives do no run for office and everybody in the City is upset and unhappy about such expenses being approved. Mr. Fred Greenberg, 514 Poenisch, stated that he understood the Peveto tax bill very well. He also understood the value of his property has more than doubled and read figures showing how various properties he owns have increased in value. He stated that the taxes are going to be greatly increased if the tax rate is not decreased accordingly. Mayor Jones explained to Mr. Greenberg that the taxes paid by citizens is only about .404 to the dollar that goes to the City and other taxing groups are much higher than the City's. Mrs. Henrietta Newberry, 602 Delaine Dr., representing Corpus Christi Citizens for the Retarded, expressed appreciation to the Council for approving the employment of a therapeutic recreation specialist for the handicapped and urged that this not be eliminated from the budget. Mr. Tom Hunt, Sr., #75 Townhouse Lane, stated that he objected to one item in the budget, which is the increase in personnel salaries. He pointed out that the increase in personnel salaries and retirement are creating such problems that many cities are going broke. He stated that he is very concerned about the need for a manpower review in every department of the City, stating that he felt that this would be invaluable to the City. He agreed that there are many dedicated city employees but he feels that there is a great deal of waste in several departments of the City. He related an incident in which he had spent several mornings following a pickup truck from the Park and Recreation Department which went from S. Alameda to several small parks and no work was performed up until 11:30 a.m. Mr. Hunt stated that he did not recommend discharging employees but he felt that some could be retrained and transferred to departments that had vacancies. Council Member Zarsky inquired of Mr. Hunt if he recommended that the Police and Fire Departments be included in such a study since they are the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 22 largest groups in the City and Mr. Hunt agreed that they should be but indicated that he would not make any comments on the proposed Charter Amendment Election on binding arbitration. Mayor Pro Tem Turner thanked Mr. Hunt for his suggestions because she too felt there was a need to see if some departments are over -staffed or under- staffed. Mr. Julius M. Rosenberg, 602 Delaine Dr., also urged that the Council approve the employment of a trained therapeutic recreation specialist. Mr. Bill Jackson, 3 Fathoms Bank Drive, addressed the Council stating that he had discussed the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department with Chief Ralph Rogers and disagreed with his recommendation that funding for this department be eliminated from the budget. He stated that this auxiliary fire department is very important to the Flour Bluff and Padre Island areas. He agreed that the Corpus Christi Fire Department is very good, but he felt the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department should be funded in order for them to assist at all fires. Mayor Pro Tem Turner agreed that the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Depart- ment has been a real asset to the community. She pointed out, however, that as the lots in Flour Bluff become developed, there is less need for protection against brush fires. Mr. Calvin Floyd, 1379 Normandy, urged that more electrical inspectors be approved in the budget. Also speaking on this same matter was Mr. Armando Martinez, who stated that even though the City has good inspectors, there are not enough of them. He pointed out that there have only been three inspectors for the past 20 years; the City has grown a great deal; poor inspections are being performed because of the overwork of these inspectors; there are a large number of electrical contractors in the City plus many from outside the City who are authorized to work here. He pointed out that they were under the impression that when the permit fees were increased last year, additional inspectors would be employed. Council Member Hawkins inquired if it would be possible to contract out some of this type of work. City Manager Martin stated that the existing force could be supplemented with private part-time parties and mentioned in particular the possibility of Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 23 using retired electricians. He assured the Council that if the one additional inspector included in the budget is not adequate, then the statf will return and request additional funds for this purpose. Council Member Zarsky stated that he agreed that a lot of improper electrical work is being performed in this City and he too understood that the increase in fees the preceding year was to provide funds for additional inspec- tors. City Manager Martin stated that he had discussed this with Mr. Hennings, but the adaitional revenue generated from the increase in fees was only $6,000, which was inadequate to employ additional inspectors. Mr. Clay Moore addressed the Council and commended Mayor Jones on his statements in regard to the binding arbitration issue for Fire and Police. He stated that although he admires the Police and Firemen and the work they perform, he was also opposed to binding arbitration. Mr. Rush Valle, 124 Iowa Jima on the Naval Air Station, referred to Mayor Pro Tem Turner's statement in regard to the prevalence of brush fires in Flour Bluff when the land is not well developed. He disagreed with the assumption that when there are more structures in Flour Bluff the number of fires will be decreased. Mr. Roy Akins stated that he resides in Flour Bluff and is a dispatcher for the Volunteer Fire Department. He expressed the opinion that there is a need for both fire services and alleged that the Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Department is nearly always first on the scene of a fire and provides the best fire protection possible. No one else spoke in regard to the budget. A motion was made by Council Member Kennedy that the hearing be closed, seconded by Council Member Hawkins and passed unanimously. * * * * * * * * * * * , * Mayor Jones called for petitions or information from the audience on matters not listed on the agenda. Mr. William H. Darby, 626 John Lee, provided written information to the Council and read his statement pertaining to impasse procedures. * * * * * * * * * * * * * There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by Mayor Pro Tem Turner, seconded by Council Member Dumphy, and passed Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 21, 1982 Page 24 unanimously, the Regular Council Meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m., July 21, 1982.