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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 01/16/2001I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of the City of Corpus Christi of January 16, 2001, which were approved by the City Council on January 23, 2001. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 23rd day of January, 2001. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 2:00 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Betty Jean Longoria Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero Melody Cooper Henry Garrett Dr. Arnold Gonzales Rex A. Kinnison John Longoria Mark Scott City Staff: City Manager David R. Garcia Deputy City Manager George Noe City Attorney James R. Bray Jr. City Secretary Armando Chapa Recording Secretary Rachelle P. Ramon Mayor Neal called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The invocation was delivered by Mr. Charles Boren, Norton Street Church of Christ, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Colmenero. City Secretary Chapa called the roll and verified that the necessary quorum of the Council and the required charter officers were present to conduct the meeting. Mayor Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of January 9, 2001. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. Ms. Ellenmay Surman, 417 Scotland, said the proposal to dredge Packery Channel will help the economy and it will not hurt the environment. She said she hopes the project will be constructed. Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said many questions remain on the Packery Channel project. He said what is today called Packery Channel was dug by Humble Oil Company to get their barges into that area. He said there have been discussions about building a marina in Lake Padre but a boat ramp does not exist there, and the clearance of the bridge over Packery Channel is only 21 feet. Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, said his electric bill increased from about $200 to $350, and he said he has yet to see a meter reader. He questioned why his bill increased so dramatically and he wondered how poor people are able to pay their electric bills. Mr. Abel Alonzo thanked Mr. Tony Cisneros, Director of Park and Recreation, for his recommendation in the distribution of Weed and Seed funds. He also thanked the Council, particularly Mr. Longoria, for emphasizing inclusiveness in the distribution of funding. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 2 Mr. Manuel Ugues, President of the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, announced that the National Association of Latino Arts and Culture will be having its convention in Corpus Christi this week. He said 400 to 500 delegates will be in attendance from throughout the country. He said the Hispanic Chamber, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Art Museum of South Texas, and Texas A&M University -Corpus Christi joined together to host the event. Mr. Ugues thanked several people who worked to bring the convention here. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 2-12). Council members requested that Items 7 and 8.b. be withheld for discussion. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 2. M2001-009 Motion approving the purchase of 1,300 traffic sign faces, 3,000 aluminum sign blanks, 300 extruded aluminum sign blades and 2,000 traffic sign posts in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0062-01 with the following companies for the following amounts, based on low bid meeting specifications and low bid for a total of $47,499.50. The sign faces, sign posts and anchors will be used by the Traffic Division of the Street Services. Funds have been budgeted by the Street Department for FY00-01. Vulcan Signs Foley. AL Bid Items: 1 and 2 $26,909.50 Northwest Pipe Company Houston. TX Bid Item: 3 $20,590.00 Grand Total: $47,499.50 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 3. M2001-010 Motion approving the purchase of twelve Lightweight Aluminum Stretchers from Ferno- Washington, Inc., Wilmington, Ohio in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0066-01, based on low bid meeting specifications for a total amount of $31,248. The Lightweight Aluminum Stretchers are to be used by the EMS Department. Funds have been budgeted by the EMS Department in FY00-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 4. M2001-011 Motion approving the purchase of fifty 4500 p.s.i. Carbon Air Cylinders, one Breathing Air Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 3 Module Compressor, one SCBA Containment Fill Station 3 Bottle Unit, one Mobile SCBA Containment Fill Station 2 Bottle Unit, one SCBA Containment Fill Station 2 Bottle Unit in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0035-01 with the following companies for the following amounts, based on low bid and best bid for a total of $68,162. Funds have been budgeted by the Fire Department in FY00-01. Daco Fire and Safety Lubbock, TX Bid Item: 1 $28,400 Survival Air Systems Freeport, TX Bid Items: 2, 3, 4 & 5 $39,762 Grand Total: $68,162 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 5. M2001-012 Motion approving the purchase of a Compress Air Foam (CAF) Unit in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0075-01 from Mertz, Inc., Ponca City, Oklahoma, based on only bid for a total of $27,417. The CAF Unit will be used by the Fire Department. Funds have been budgeted by the Fire Department in FY00-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 6. M2001-013 Motion approving a supply agreement with Unifirst Holdings L.P., Corpus Christi, Texas for uniform rental service, which includes approximately 21,946 changes of uniforms, in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0048-01 based on total low bid for an estimated two year expenditure of $124,739.34. The term of the contract shall be for twenty-four months with an option to extend for up to one additional twelve month period subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by the using departments in FY00-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 8.a. M2001-015 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with The YMCA of Corpus Christi, Northside Outreach Program to provide $10,000 from the FY00- 01 Weed and Seed Program to implement a Youth Summer Basketball and Swimming Program. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 4 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 8.c. M2001-016 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with The Tejano Academy of Fine Arts to provide $10,000 from the FY00-01 Weed and Seed Program to implement a Song for Life Program designed to help youth through the use of the Arts. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 8.d. M2001-017 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the Park and Recreation Department to provide $20,000 from the FY00-01 Weed and Seed Program to implement a Summer Swim Program at the Joe Garza and HEB Community Pools. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 9. RESOLUTION NO. 024336 Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit a grant application to Texas Department of Transportation in the amount of $265,500 for development and implementation of a comprehensive communication and education plan relating to underage drinking and impaired driving. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 10. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Lease No. DTFA07-91- L-01440, terminating September 30, 2001 with an option to renew annually through September 30, 2005, with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the operation of the air traffic control tower and terminal radar approach control center in consideration of a monthly rental payment of $13,110.52 and the FAA maintaining and operating the air traffic control tower and terminal radar approach control center. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 5 11. ORDINANCE NO. 024337 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Supplemental Agreement No. 1 to Lease No. DTFA07-98-L-01153 with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) providing for the establishment of applicable easements and rights-of-way necessary for the installation of water, wastewater, electric, and natural gas utility lines, utility service lines, and power/control cable routes in support of Air Traffic Control Tower Operations (ATCT) at Corpus Christi International Airport; and providing for FAA ownership and maintenance of all installed water, wastewater and natural gas utility lines in consideration of the FAA operating the ATCT. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 12.a. M2001-018 Motion to amend prior to second reading the January 9, 2001 ordinance amending the Platting Ordinance by amending Section 5 (which amends Section IV, subsection G. 2b of the Platting Ordinance) by changing the radius for expenditure of park trust funds from 3 miles to 1.5 miles. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024338 Ordinance amending the Platting Ordinance regarding the City's participation in streets, parks, and street lighting infrastructure improvements; and regarding park dedication and use of monies in the Park Trust Fund. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading, as amended: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 7, intermodal demand analysis for the airport. Mr. Dave Hamrick, Airport Operations Manager, explained that staff feels the airport is missing out in capturing the cargo industry at the airport, which could increase the airport's revenue and provide more jobs and rapid air cargo for the community. City Manager Garcia said this study will assess the demand for air cargo services. Mr. Hamrick said the study will take about five months to complete and staff does not believe it will have a major impact on the terminal's construction. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Hamrick said the needs of customers as far away as San Antonio will be assessed. He added that the air cargo facilities will be accommodated in the airport's traffic reconfigurations. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 6 7. M2001-014 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a professional services contract with Kiehl Henderson Group to conduct a local and regional air and highway intermodal demand analysis for the purpose of attracting air and highway carriers, freight forwarders, and other cargo industry companies to Corpus Christi International Airport and providing for a contract fee not to exceed $39,700. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 8.b., Weed and Seed grant to the Corpus Christi IceRays. Council Member John Longoria questioned why the selection committee voted to recommend $10,000 in funding to the IceRays, which is a for-profit organization. He said the IceRays should provide that service at no charge. He said he did not think the grant is serving the purpose of the Weed and Seed mission. Mr. Longoria said he would not support this item and he thinks the committee should consider other options for funding. Mr. Cisneros said the program would provide roller hockey opportunities to youth in various Weed and Seed areas (not at Memorial Coliseum). He said the contract specified that the grant would be used to pay three instructors for 20 hours per week for a three-week program. In addition, there would be a program supervisor who would serve as the Safety/Risk Coordinator. Mr. Longoria said the San Antonio Spurs basketball team provides a camp for youth at no charge. He added that he feels the IceRays should provide an ice hockey program because it would be unique. Council Members Kinnison, Colmenero and Betty Jean Longoria echoed Mr. Longoria's concerns. Mr. Kinnison made a motion to table Item 8.b. Prior to the motion receiving a second, Council Member Gonzales said he liked the idea and feels the concept is worthwhile. He said he agreed that this item should be tabled and he suggested that the selection committee explain to the Council why they voted to approve this funding. Mr. Kinnison's motion to table was seconded and it passed unanimously. Mayor Neal asked staff to bring it back in a week or two. Mr. Longoria said he was not interested in seeing this particular proposal coming back to the Council. He said staff should provide another option for funding. Mr. Cisneros said the IceRays were planning to fund half of the program and they were seeking funding for the other half. Mr. Colmenero said the question is whether the Council should use public funds for a questionable project. Mayor Neal instructed staff to bring the item back one more time. 8.b. TABLED Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 7 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 13, American Bowling Congress (ABC) tournament. Deputy City Manager Noe said the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has been working with city staff on the preparation of a proposal to the ABC group to hold their 2006 tournament in Corpus Christi. He noted that Corpus Christi hosted that event in 1992. He said this proposal includes the direct contribution to the ABC of $500,000, which is part of the bid requirement. That amount will be shared equally between the city and the CVB. He said the funding for the city's share will come from budgeting $50,000 each year over the next five years in the HoteUMotel Occupancy Tax Fund. Mr. Noe said there will be additional expenses required as part of hosting this event, such as increased electrical and staffing costs. He said both city staff and CVB officials predict that a large amount of revenue will be generated from this event (through hotel and sales taxes), which will more than offset the cost of hosting it. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Noe said $50,000 a year is only 1% of the total revenues from the hotel/motel tax and staff does not believe there will be a significant problem in setting that money aside each budget year. Council Member Kinnison questioned the statistical information for the ABC tournament, which estimates that the conventioneers will spend $99 a day for a total of about $50 million during the six-month tournament. Mr. Joey Jarreau, Acting Director of the CVB, said those figures were derived from the state Department of Economic Development. He also explained that since the ABC tournament will not be held until 2006, if the city gets the bid it will have ample time to accommodate the needs of other conventions. He added that the convention center has enough room to house the bowling tournament. Council Member John Longoria questioned whether it was more feasible to spend about $1 million to bid on and host the ABC tournament here or to break that money up to develop a systematic approach to attracting more conventions to the city. Mr. Bill Pruet, CVB Board Chairman, said that when Corpus Christi secured the 1992 ABC tournament, the CVB sales staff was able to use that information to attract other conventions in subsequent years. He added that ABC is one of the most prestigious national convention groups in the United States and it would be a boon to this city if they land this convention. Mr. Longoria said that by 2006 many things will have changed, including the construction of the multi-purpose arena and the expansion of the convention center. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Pruet said he is not aware of any sporting groups that produce the attendance that the American Bowling Congress does in that compact period of time. Dr. Gonzales pointed out that by 2006 the city's new airport will be completed. Mr. Pruet said the private sector wants to be part of the ABC bid and with the city's and the CVB's support, they are preparing a strong proposal. Mr. Pruet then showed a video which will be similar to the video that will be included in the bid proposal when the presentation is made in March. Mayor Pro Tem Longoria called for comments from the audience. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 8 Ms. Gail Hoffman said she is a strong supporter of this proposal, adding that it is a small investment which will reap many benefits and show others what Corpus Christi has to offer. Mr. Abel Alonzo thanked the Council for asking serious questions about this proposal and for holding the CVB responsible and accountable. He said he also supports this concept. Dr. Gonzales asked about the time table for the bid. Mr. Pruet said the team will make their presentation on either March 8th or March 9th and the decision will be made on March 9th after all the presentations have been made. He added that the video will be modified. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 13. RESOLUTION NO. 024339 Resolution expressing the desire of the City of Corpus Christi to host the American Bowling Congress Tournament in 2006, and authorizing the City Manager to provide the American Bowling Congress with $50,000 per year for five years, free rental of the Bayfront Plaza Convention Center Exhibit Hall and related in-kind services, subject to appropriations. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 14, bond projects. Mr. Noe explained that according to the City Charter, before the city can begin the allocations for architectural and engineering contracts it has to identify and certify that the funding is available. He said the anticipated date of the bond sale is March 13, 2001 but in order to begin awarding contracts, the funding source has to be identified. Mr. Garcia added that staff does not anticipate any actual outflow of the funds. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 14. ORDINANCE NO. 024340 Ordinance appropriating $2,000,000 from the Unreserved Fund Balance of the General Fund No. 1020 to begin the planning and development of projects approved in the Special Election on November 7, 2000; amending Ordinance No. 024130 which adopted the FY00-01 Budget by increasing appropriations by $2,000,000. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Scott absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 15, traffic signal improvements. Mr. Angel Escobar, Director of Engineering Services, explained that in November voters approved a $30.8 million bond Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 9 package, which includes $1 million for new traffic signalization. This first phase provides for signal improvements at the seven priority locations identified at the public meetings: Staples at Lipes; Staples at Timbergate; Saratoga at Rodd Field; Kostoryz at Sunnybrook; Carancahua at Coopers Alley (pedestrian -activated flashers -PAF); Ocean at Cole Park (PAF); and Everhart at Schanen and Shea Parkway (PAF). He said once these signals are installed, staff will complete the evaluation of the remaining street signalization locations and bring back the second phase of work. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. David Seiler, Traffic Engineer, said that at the other proposed intersections, staff will consider conditions which affect drivers, such as congestion, delays, and traffic accident experience. He noted that new traffic counts will be taken at those intersections. Council Member John Longoria noted that this is the first of the bond projects and it is being awarded to a local contractor. Mr. Escobar said since the equipment needs to be ordered, the traffic signals will be installed in May, June and July. Mr. Noe said it has been about 60 days since the bond election and the first contract is now being awarded, which speaks highly of staffs efforts in that regard. Council Member Garrett said there is a lot of pedestrian traffic at the intersection of Kostoryz and Sunnybrook, and he asked if that has been considered. Mr. Escobar said that intersection will have a traffic signal and a pedestrian -activated crosswalk. Mr. Seiler said the fire station there has a flashing device that is activated from within the station and emergency pre-emption equipment can be added to ambulances and fire vehicles as requested by the Fire Chief. Mr. Garrett also asked if older traffic signal equipment can be used at other intersections which need it. Mr. Seiler said the intersections targeted for upgraded equipment were chosen because of the age of their existing equipment; however, staff will use older equipment where possible. In reply to Council Member Scott, Mr. Escobar said staff will bring the second phase in 30 to 60 days. He said the remaining funds from the $1 million will be used to install new traffic signals at four or five other locations, which will be determined. Council Member Gonzales asked what will be included in the new installations. Mr. Escobar said it includes the equipment, installation, signal controllers, street name signs, crosswalk/stop bar pavement markings, and accessibility ramps and sidewalk improvements (where needed). Mr. Colmenero requested a report about intersections needing improvements. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria asked about County Road 69. Mr. Seiler replied that those improvements will aid in improving traffic access management on FM 624. He and Mr. Escobar further explained the time frame for installing the signal improvements and the need for a signal at Airline and Wooldridge, in response to Council Member Kinnison. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience. Ms. Gail Hoffman commended city staff, saying she is extremely impressed with the time frame being followed on this project. Mayor Neal said that signage will be very important in communicating the progress of the bond projects to the public, and he asked Ms. Susan Cable, Director of Communications and Quality Management, to ensure that those signs are installed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council: Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 10 15. M2001-019 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a signal construction supply contract in the amount of $585,450 to V.C. Huff, Inc. for the construction of new traffic signal improvements funded by the approved 2000 Bond Program (Bond Issue Project 34), subject to appropriation of funds. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. The first presentation was made by Ms. Cable regarding a video series on water quality produced by the University of New Orleans in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency and PBS stations. Ms. Cable said that about a year ago a production crew came to Corpus Christi and worked with the city's Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, and Solid Waste Services departments to highlight successful city projects. She said the videos will be shown in high schools and universities as part of educational programs and they will also be broadcast on PBS stations. She then showed about six minutes of one of the 30 -minute videos. Mayor Neal noted that Corpus Christi and South Texas receive a lot of criticism about how the environment is treated and this video series is a positive reinforcement about what the city and industry actually do to protect the environment. Mr. Colmenero echoed the Mayor's comments. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The second presentation was the quarterly progress report (October -December 2000) on the Wesley Seale Dam stabilization project. Dr. Ron Waters, of Freese and Nichols, said the project is 65% complete. He said it has proceeded much more quickly than they anticipated and it is within budget. Dr. Waters added that this is one of the most successful projects of this type that he has been involved with. Using a computer presentation, Dr. Waters reviewed the amount and scope of the project, as well as the specific improvements that have been made to the dam's north and south spillways. They include ballast installation, gate extensions, investigation of and improvements to the low -flow discharge canal, the construction of a new concrete parapet wall, and many other elements. He said the projected completion is June 2001, with the possibility that it will be completed a month or so earlier (weather permitting). He added that they have recommended that the lake level be returned to elevation 94. He said a security system will also be installed. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Dr. Waters said he thinks the dam can be expected to function adequately until it fills up with silt. He said normally dams of this type have a 100 -year life span and it is 40 years old now. He added that this dam is probably stronger than it ever was but Freese and Nichols is recommending that the dam be rigorously checked for the next five years, which he explained in response to Council Member Gonzales. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 11 Mayor Neal and Dr. Gonzales suggested that the Council rededicate the dam once it is completed. The Mayor also asked staff to prepare options on how to use the excess funds. Mr. Garcia said staff will ensure that funds will be set aside for future inspection and testing requirements. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The third presentation was an update by HDR Engineering on the water supply and drought contingency plan. Mr. Ron Massey, Assistant City Manager for Public Works and Utilities, said this presentation is a follow-up to a discussion held last October about the same issues. He introduced Mr. Ken Choffel and Mr. Kelly Payne of HDR Engineering. Using a computer presentation, Mr. Choffel said that many changes have occurred in Corpus Christi regarding water issues over the Last 10 years. He specifically discussed changes in the reservoir system's "firm yield," which is defined as "that amount of water that the reservoir (or reservoir system) could have produced annually if it had been in place during the worst drought of record," according to the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC). Mr. Choffel said that the firm yield under the 1992 interim order with TNRCC was 175,900 acre-feet per year, and under the 1995 agreed order it increased to 189,000 acft/yr. He noted that the city uses about 120,000 to 130,000 acft/yr. He explained that the 1995 firm yield of 189,000 acft/yr was based on the 1960s drought; however, as a result of the 1990s drought, the 1997 firm yield dropped to 168,600 acft/yr, a decrease of 10.8%. One positive change has been the inclusion of the Lake Texana water via the Mary Rhodes Pipeline, which increased the firm yield in 1999 to 209,700 acft/yr (an increase of 24.4%). Mr. Payne explained that under the 1995 agreed order with TNRCC, in the months of May and June the city could be required to pass through to the bays and estuaries large amounts of water, depending on how much inflows are received in the reservoir system. The other potentially large pass-through months are September and October. Mr. Payne said the agreed order contains two key elements which allow the city to seek relief from making the pass-throughs: when the system storage falls below 40% of capacity (which is the current situation) and when the city implements Condition II of the drought contingency plan. He discussed the reservoir system's projected storage under a worst-case scenario and a median -case scenario, with and without Condition II being implemented. Mr. Payne then explained the potential benefits of renegotiating the agreed order regarding water releases as well as the benefits of reopening the Rincon Diversion Channel. Those benefits include: reduced salinity to the Nueces Delta area with corresponding increases in biological productivity; relief from the estuary pass-throughs when the reservoir content is low (the city would no longer be tied to implementing water conservation measures); and an increase in the system firm yield from 7,000 to 7,700 acft/yr. Mayor Neal asked about the timing of this proposal. Mr. James Dodson, Deputy Executive Director of the Nueces River Authority, said that in 1997 the city proposed a similar renegotiation of the agreed order using wastewater diversions rather than reopening the Rincon Channel. He said Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 12 it took four to five months to negotiate a memorandum of agreement to take to TNRCC. However, they are working toward completing negotiations by this April, prior to the large water release requirements in May and June. He said they will propose that the relief from the releases be provided immediately upon amendment of the agreed order, and its continuation will be contingent upon implementation of the whole plan. The Mayor inquired about the cost associated with reopening the Rincon Channel. Mr. Dodson said the cost would entail acquiring the necessary property or easements. He said the 1997 proposal would have cost $15 million to $18 million to implement, while this one may cost $3 million to $5 million The Mayor asked if the city has eminent domain authority over the land in question, and City Attorney Bray replied affirmatively because it would be for a public purpose. Responding to Mr. Colmenero, Mr. Dodson said that in the past the Nueces Estuary Advisory Council (NEAC) has had very strong support from surrounding communities because they depend on the system for their water supply as well. He said this project is a very good investment not only because of its improvement to the area's water supply but also because of the environmental benefits. Mr. Dodson said that if the capital costs are amortized out and the maintenance and monitoring costs are added, the project would cost approximately $500,000 a year, compared to a water supply benefit of several million dollars a year. In reply to another question from the Mayor, Mr. Massey said that city officials will introduce the proposal to NEAC at their meeting tomorrow, at which time NEAC will probably appoint a subcommittee to negotiate an agreement with the city. He said they are planning to update the Council next week about what occurs at tomorrow's meeting. ************* Mayor Neal announced the executive session (Item 19), pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071, regarding Texas Public Utility Commission of Texas Docket No. 22352 (Central Power and Light rate case) and regarding Public Utility Commission of Texas Docket No. 23520 (Central Power and Light request to implement fuel factors and implement a surcharge), with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session. The Council went into executive session. The Council returned from executive session. Council Member Gonzales made a motion to approve the following resolution, seconded by Council Member Cooper. A voice vote was called and the motion passed unanimously. 19. RESOLUTION NO. 024341 Resolution authorizing intervention of the City of Corpus Christi in Public Utility Commission of Texas Docket No. 23520, application of Central Power and Light Company for fuel surcharge and increase in fuel factor, and related proceedings. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 13 Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia said that next week staff is planning a presentation on the street renaming policy. At the same time a compromise has been reached on changing the name of Belden Street to Concrete Street. On January 30th there will be presentations and discussions on the spaceport, the city's health insurance program, the third golf course, and contracts for several bond projects. Mr. Garcia added that the department head retreat will be held January 26-27, and he pointed out that the new issue of Texas Town and City, the official publication of the Texas Municipal League, contains an article about Mayor Neal, the TML President for 2000-2001. In his report, the Mayor reminded the Council that on January 23rd there will be a closed session to evaluate the City Manager and the City Secretary. The Mayor also announced that Mr. Cisneros was appointed by Gov. George W. Bush to a prestigious task force (he was the only representative of Parks and Recreation Departments). He called for Council concerns and reports. Mrs. Longoria announced a meeting on January 18th at Jackson Woods Presbyterian Fellowship Hall to discuss a sports bar that is planned to be located on the corner of Leopard Street and McKinzie Road. She also reported that she had served on a TML subcommittee on manufactured housing. After hearing presentations by representatives of the manufactured housing industry, the subcommittee members voted to oppose any changes to the existing regulations on manufactured housing. Mr. Garcia added that the Homebuilders Association also supports resisting any changes. Dr. Gonzales referred to the planned bar in the northwest area, and he expressed concern about bars being allowed in "B-4" zoning. He also stated that there are problems with an establishment known as the Cat Lounge and its affect on the adjacent neighborhood. Dr. Gonzales also asked about possible mold problems at the Police Department. Mr. Garcia replied that some issues have come out as the city has been remodeling areas of the Police Department for Metrocom. Mr. Longoria noted that there have been discussions about ways to honor Terry and Bobby LaBonte, and he suggested that a committee be appointed to study different options. Mr. Garrett said he would like to head that committee. Mr. Longoria said the renovation of the seawall might be an opportunity to develop a "Walk of Fame." Mayor Neal said some of the County Commissioners and Local businesses have expressed interest in honoring the LaBonte brothers. Mr. Longoria said that last week concerns were raised about trash at Cole Park, and he noted that a food vendor parks his vehicle there for several hours. He suggested that during the next budget cycle the Council consider adding a position to the Housing and Community Development Department to process housing assistance loans. Mr. Longoria asked about Solid Waste Services personnel picking up grass clippings Mr. Massey said that in implementing the changes to the SWS ordinance, staff's objective is to pick up small amounts of grass clippings while encouraging people to compost it. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 16, 2001 Page 14 Mr. Longoria also asked if staff could develop a system of informing the Council of the requests for proposals that are being prepared. He noted that open enrollment is underway for city employees' health insurance, and he asked if staff knows the cost of next year's health insurance plan. Mr. Garcia replied that staff knows the current cost of the health insurance and they have about 11/2 years worth of claims experience. In addition, they have the actuarial study which identified areas in which adjustments must be made. Mr. Scott asked if the city received all of the water it paid for in the year 2000 from Lake Texana via the Mary Rhodes Pipeline. Mr. Massey replied affirmatively, adding that that information is available on the city's website. Mr. Scott complimented the Communications Department for including helpful information on the website. He also asked if minor revisions to the City Charter were being planned in this election cycle. Mayor Neal said that changes may be proposed after April. Mr. Scott requested an update in early February about the police academy list and he said the city's trash problem needs to be addressed in a very proactive way. Mr. Massey said the solid waste ordinance gives additional authority to the compliance officers, which he explained. Mayor Neal said many shopping center owners and employees are not picking up trash around their businesses. Mr. Colmenero agreed that many alleys around businesses are very dirty. He also reiterated problems associated with the Cat Lounge located near Del Mar College, including a loophole associated with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission regulations. He reported an accumulation of water at the intersection of Vaky Street and Reid Drive. Mr. Longoria referred to the request for qualifications for the Municipal Court fine collection service, and he asked if the city can request a "best and final offer" from the participating companies. Mr. Bray said it depends on whether it is considered a professional service, and since some law firms are involved in that business, the city may well do that. He said there are no statutes that govern professional services. A discussion ensued on that issue. Mayor Neal suggested that the Council look at that policy and Mr. Garcia said staff will report back to the Council. Mr. Garrett asked about the date for initiating Metrocom and when the Fire Department will move to the Frost building. Mr. Garcia said there will be a permanent shift over for Metrocom beginning February 23rd and the bid opening for the construction of the Frost building will occur on January 31st. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the Council meeting at 6:18 p.m. on January 16, 2001. *************