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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 09/06/1978PRESENT: Mayor Gabe Lozano, Sr. Mayor Pro Tem Bob Gulley Council Members: David Diaz Ruth Gill Joe Holt Tony Juarez, Jr. Edward L. Sample MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 6, 1978 2:00 P. M. City Manager R. Marvin Townsend City Attorney J. Bruce Aycock City Secretary Bill G. Read Mayor Gabe Lozano, Sr. called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The invocation was presented by Father Pedro McNamara of Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Church. City Secretary Bill G. Read called the roll of required Charter Officers and stated that the necessary quorum was present to conduct a legally constituted meeting. Mayor Lozano announced the issuance of a proclamation designating September 10 through 16, 1978 as "AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN MEMBERSHIP WEEK." Mayor Lozano introduced Mr. Jack Porter, DDC Coordinator for the Texas Safety Association. Mr. Porter stated that he wished to present an award to the City of Corpus Christi on behalf of Mr. Vincent L. Tofany of the National Safety Council designating this City as the "Best Performance by a Municipal Government" in the 1978 defensive driving campaign. He explained that this award represents the best performance in this category of any city in the United States. He then presented a plaque to Mr. Ron Jones, the City's Safety Director and teacher of the City's defensive driving classes. Council Member Gill inquired of Mr. Porter as to the criteria used for determining which City should receive this award. Mr. Porter explained that the criteria for the award was based on the training record for the City of Corpus Christi, the administration of the program, and the quality of the instruction of the program. Mayor Lozano expressed appreciation for the award on behalf of the City of Corpus Christi. al0FILMED, 0 rfl`�p ��I9.a Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 2 Mayor Lozano announced Board and Committee appointments. City Manager R. Marvin Townsend reviewed the nominees as discussed during the morning Workshop Meeting. Motion by Diaz, seconded by Sample, and passed unanimously that the follow- ing appointments be confirmed: COASTAL BEND CONSORTIUM ADVISORY COUNCIL TERM TO EXPIRE Ms. Jennifer Butler MUNICIPAL ARTS COMMISSION (Appointed by the Mayor subject to confirmation of the Council) Mr. Joe Valadez (Reappointment) 9/1/81 Mr. J. Carter Howald (Reappointment) 9/1/81. Mrs. Joan Veith 9/1/81 Ms. Cruz Colomo 9/1/81 MUSEUM ADVISORY BOARD Dr. Henry Santana (School) - (Reappointment) 9/1/81 Dr. Ralph Gilchrist (City) - (Reappointment) 9/1/81 Mrs. John G. Kennedy, Jr. (Museum Advisory Board) - 9/1/81 . (Reappointment) Mrs. J. A. O'Brien (Friends of Museum) - (Reappointment) 9/1/81 Mayor Lozano then read a letter from Mr. Joe Fulton, President of the Board of the Corpus Christi Area Convention and Tourist Bureau, in which Mr. Fulton confirmed that Mr. Bob Conwell, the Executive Director of the Bureau, had polled the Board of Directors and received 19 affirmative votes to request the City Council to appropriate $5,000 as an addendum to the Convention and Tourist Bureau advertising budget, this amount to be used for televising the tennis matches conducted in connection with the Padre Isles Invitational Tennis Tournament. In the letter, Mr. Fulton expressed the opinion that the number of affirmative votes indicated that the Board of Directors is unanimously in favor of televising the tennis tournament over the Canadian networks and, hopefully, in Mexico, Venezuela and possibly Texas. City Manager Townsend explained that the beginning balance in the hotel - motel tax budget for the 1978-79 fiscal year contained $116,000; the anticipated income from the hotel -motel tax is $620,000; and the City expects a recovery of the prior year's expenditure in the amount of $1,400, which makes the total avail- able funds in this activity of approximately $738,000. Mr. Townsend explained the various allocations made from this fund and stated that the fund now contains a Minutes t Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 3 balance of $155,000. He suggested that if the Council desires to approve this additional funding for the Bureau, a motion to that effect would be in order, and stated that the ordinance allocating the funds could be considered during next week's Council Meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Gulley referred to the fact that the Council had discussed the possibility of providing funds for a sculpture to be located in the lobby between the Convention Center and the Community Auditorium. - City Manager Townsend stated that the Art Commission is discussing the possibility of submitting an application for a Federal grant for this purpose. Motion by Diaz that $5,000 be allocated from the hotel -motel tax fund to increase the $460,000 budgeted for the Convention and Tourist Bureau for the purpose of assistance in financing television coverage of the Padre Isles Invi- tational Tennis Tournament; seconded by Juarez; and passed unanimously. Council Member Gill asked for clarification of this action and inquired if the budget for the Bureau would be increased by $5,000 even if the proposed television coverage does not become a reality, or if the funds would be allocated only for this specified purpose. Mayor'Lozano stated that the $5,000 would only be allocated for television coverage of this event. Council Member Diaz agreed that this was the intent of his motion. City Manager Townsend assured the Council that the ordinance allocating these funds would be written so as to specifically limit the funds for the tele- vision coverage. Motion by Holt that the City commence the process to obtain the State Attorney General's opinion in regard to the legality of approving the installa- tion of the statue of Christ commemorating the name of the City of Corpus Christi. City Attorney J. Bruce Aycock explained that according to State law, a State or County official will have to make the request for an opinion; a brief on the matter must be prepared; and he suggested that the County Attorney be requested to start the proceedings. The motion was seconded by Diaz. Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 . Page 4 City Manager Townsend stated that the City needs to seek the Attorney General's opinion on the constitutionality of placing the statue at the particu- lar location as proposed in the Bay. Mayor Lozano called for the vote on the motion, and it passed unanimously. Council Member Diaz stated that he would like to have a copy of the request and the brief that is prepared. City Manager Townsend stated that the staff will provide copies for all of the Council Members. Mayor Lozano called for the City Manager's Reports. City Manager Townsend presented the following items and recommended that: a. A public hearing be held at 2:00 p.m. during the Regular Council Meeting on September 27, 1978 on a request by the residents of Robb Drive that the name of the street be changed to Robby Drive. There is another Robb Drive in the central part of the City. b. A public hearing be held at 3:30 p.m. during the Regular Council Meeting on September 27, 1978 on the closing of a portion of Baymoor Boulevard lying between Lots 218 and 219 of Baymoor Addition and from Ebony Street to the deadend at the Southwestern Oil Refinery Company's property. The Company is requesting the street closing to allow construction of a parking lot. An application for the necessary zoning is scheduled for hearing the same day. City Manager Townsend informed the Council that a related zoning case on this property is scheduled for a public hearing on that date; the closing of this portion of Baymoor Boulevard will provide access to the refinery; and sug- gested that the ordinance contain provisions to guarantee that fire lanes will be retained in the street if the Council approves the street closing. c. Bids be received at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 26, 1978 for 24 - 50 yd. rolls of reflective sheeting and 611 packages of various size cut-out letters for the Traffic and Transit Department for street name and traffic signs. d. Bids be received at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 26, 1978 for the following equipment for the Wastewater Services Division: (1) An additional electrically operated 2,000 pound capacity crane hoist. The hoist is to be used by the maintenance crew added during 1977-78 to lift motors and pumps in maintaining and repairing lift stations. (2) A replacement 300 amp trailer mounted electric welding machine. e. 57 bunker coats and pants be purchased for the Fire Department from Martin Apparatus of Houston on the basis of low bid meeting specifications of $8,097.91. The apparent low bid of $8,096.58 from Continental Fire & Rescue Company of Weslaco did not meet specifications because the pants do not have protective flaps on the pockets. Bids were received from 9 firms. Price comparison shows an increase of 10% over the last purchase in February, 1977. i }tes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 5 f. The South Staples Street Sanitary Sewer Improvements project be accepted as complete and final payment of $13,536.10 for a total of $87,686.11 be made to Armor Constructors, Inc. This project provided for an extension of a 10" sanitary sewer along South Staples Street from immediately south of Holly Road to Wooldridge Road. Five property owners along the line paid a total of $26,000 towards the construction cost. Also recommended is approval of change order to the project of $2,327.10 for construction of a manhole on one of the abutting properties in return for a 15' x 724' utility easement and a 25' x 724' temporary construction easement needed for the project and other minor work. g - A contract be approved under which the City will participate with Ms. Olene V. Mimms in the extension of a 10" sanitary sewer across Lot 8, Block 1, Lakeview Acres Subdivision from near Rhine Drive to Lakeview Drive. This is an oversize-overdepth extension as provided for in the platting ordinance. An appropriation of $4,515 is needed to pay for the City's portion. City Manager Townsend located the area on the map and stated that the City has attempted for some time to provide sanitary sewer service to Lakeview Acres Subdivision, and the staff feels that there is sufficient demand for serv- ice at this time to provide it after the lot is subdivided. He explained that a standard sewer line would be 8 inches; the proposed line will be 10 inches; and the depth of installation will be 4 to 5 feet deeper than ordinary lines.. h. A contract be approved with the Governor's Committee on Aging fora grant of $4,212.53 from the State to supplement the existing Retired Senior Volunteer Grant program. No City match is required. The money will be used to increase a half-time bus driver to full time to allow more trans- portation of volunteers to and from work stations and related fuel and lubricants. i. A contract be executed with the Coastal Bend Council of Governments for the transportation of Medicaid recipients in Corpus Christi and Nueces County utilizing the City's elderly transportation vans. The City has contracted through the C.O.G. for this transportation service since 1975. The current contract is for approximately $36,000. The new contract will provide reimbursement to the City of approximately $66,600 duringrthe period September 1, 1978 - August 31, 1979. On July 19, 1978, the City Council approved negotiation of a contract to continue the service. City Manager Townsend explained that this is a separate program from the van service for elderly and handicapped which was discussed recently and stated that this service will be conducted from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; arrange- ments will be made with taxicab companies for transportation after those hours; and the estimated cost for each trip for next year is approximately $3.28 per trip. Mayor Pro Tem Gulley asked about the estimated cost of providing this service, and City Manager Townsend stated that the staff estimates that the Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 6 funds provided through COG will offset the City's incremental cost of providing the service. Mr. Townsend further explained that the eligibility of the recipients of this service has to be determined by the Department of Human Resources. i• The compensation ordinance be amended to include the provisions in the collective bargaining contract with the Corpus Christi Police Officers Association approved last week by the City Council. The changes include: (1) Amending the public safety salary schedule to provide a 6% cost of living increase effective August 1, 1978 and an additional 2% cost of living increase effective February 1, 1979. (2) Adding the position of "Police Captain" to the regular City salary schedule at pay grade 30 to allow for recognition of merit when applicable. (3) Correct an omission in the text of the ordinance so as to provide a 42 month longevity step for patrolmen. This step is included in the salary schedule table which is a part of the compensation ordinance, but is omitted in the text of the ordinance. k. The City group life and health insurance contract with Conneetiaut General Insurance Company be amended effective August 1, 1978 to provide continued health insurance benefits on a voluntary basis for employees who retire under Social Security, the Texas Municipal Retirement System or the Firemen's Relief and Retirement Fund. Health insurance coverage would be provided at group rates and be paid by the individual retiring employee until he or she either reaches age 65 or becomes eligible for Medicare. This provision is included in the new collective bargaining contract between the City and the Corpus Christi Police Officers' Association. City Manager Townsend explained that employees who retire under Social Security should be included in this amendment because the City frequently employs people over the age of 50, and they are not eligible to become members of TMRS. Mr. Townsend indicated to the Council that he feels that they should be allowed to belong to TMRS but has been unable to convince state officials of this. He stated that this amendment will not represent any cost to the City during the first year, but there will be added expenses after this year. Mayor Pro Tem Gulley expressed the opinion that since this coverage was granted firefighters and police officers, it seems reasonable to extend such coverage to other employees also. In regard to the cost of the extended coverage, Assistant City Manager Archie N. Walker informed the Council that the staff has estimated that the cost to the City will be approximately 13 to 15 thousand dollars a year. City Manager Townsend pointed out that including these retired employees in the group coverage will increase the size of the group that is covered. . ltes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 . Page 7 Council Member Gill asked if the extended coverage seems to be detrimental to City employees as a whole, could this coverage for retired persons be canceled, and City Manager Townsend replied that it could be canceled. 1. The contract with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission (for water for Mustang Island State Park)(be further amended to state that the City will provide treated water needed to serve the needs of the Park, rather than a maximum of 1,600,000 gallons per month, which is the estimated maximum demand. City Manager Townsend informed the Council that he had attended a hearing in Austin with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission in an effort to have the contract as originally prepared last week approved; however, the Commission had requested that the contract be changed because of their concern in regard to the maximum number of gallons listed in the contract, and this item is just to obtain the Council's approval of the requested change. m. The requested assignment of the Convention Center contract from B -F -W Construction Company, Inc. (a Texas Corporation) to B -F -W Construction Company, Inc. (a Delaware Corporation) be approved. Because of retirement of the 3 founders and sale of the Company's assets to Turner Construction Company of New York, B -F -W has been reorganized as a Delaware Corporation. The bonding company involved (The Travelers) has approved the assignment. City Manager Townsend explained that the requested assignment was from the contractor; the matter has been discussed with the architect; and the archi- tect has recommended that the requested assignment will enhance the company as far as the City's contract is concerned. Council Member Holt inquired if the City would be protected if some mis- hap occurred during the construction of the Convention Center if the Council agrees to this consent of agreement to change the company from a Texas corpora- tion to a Delaware corporation. City Attorney Aycock stated that both B -F -W companies, whether a Texas corporation ora Delaware corporation, would be liable for any damages that may be incurred. City Manager Townsend informed the Council that The Travelers Indemnity Company, which holds the bond on the project, has agreed that they will be obli- gated even if the company becomes a Delaware corporation. He also stated that the parent company, Turner Construction Company of New York, has bonding capacity of $350,000,000., Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 8 Further discussion followed in regard to the implications of the change. Council Member Diaz expressed the opinion that the assignment is just a formality, and City Manager Townsend stated that he feels that everything is in order in con- nection with the assignment. n. The City submit a letter expressing interest in acquiring Rodd Field. This area has been determined to be surplus government land. The General Services Administration has requested that the City submit a letter by September 11, 1978, if the City is interested in acquiring this land.for park and recreation purposes. City Manager Townsend displayed before the Council an exhibit containing aerial photographs of Rodd Field. He explained the procedure that had been fol- lowed by the General Services Administration before declaring the land surplus government land and stated that the total land area consists of 126 acres, 121 acres of which is in one location and the remaining 5 acres in another location. He stated that staff members of Parks and Recreation feel that this area would be an ideal location for softball fields. Mr. Townsend pointed out that a formal application from the City must be submitted prior to September 11, 1978 to express the City's interest in acquiring the land. He also stated that a further recom- mendation will be presented to the Council in regard to the definite use. City Manager Townsend explained that after all Federal agencies have indicated that they have no use for the property, all other governmental entities have an option to apply for acquisition, and acquisition for the purpose of using it for park and recreation is a higher priority than any commercial use. Mayor Pro Tem Gulley inquired if the City could cooperate with a school district, if the land is acquired by the City, for a football stadium or a similar facility. City Manager Townsend indicated that he did not have that information, but this possibility could be researched. Mayor Lozano called for comments from the Council on the City Manager's Reports. Council Member Diaz referred to Item "j"(2) in regard to merit increases for Police Captains and inquired as to who would determine which captains should receive merit increases. Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 9 City Manager Townsend replied that any merit increases would be recommended by the immediate supervisor, the department head, and then the City Manager. He stated that only two such increases per year will be allowed, and the increases must be consistent with the budget. There were no comments from members of the audience on the City Manager's Reports. Motion by Diaz that the City Manager's Reports, Items "a" through "n", be accepted; seconded by Juarez; and passed unanimously. Mayor Lozano announced the consideration of the tabled item on the follow- ing zoning application: The Resource Group from "R -1A" to "R-2" on three lots located on the north- west corner of Claremore Street and Kentner Street was heard last week and tabled until a full Council could be present since the 20% rule is in effect. The Planning Commission recommends denial. Motion by Diaz that the matter be removed from the table, seconded by Holt, and passed unanimously. Motion by Gulley that the requested change of zoning on Application #778-8 be denied, seconded by Diaz, and passed unanimously. * * * * * * * * Noting that a Special Council Meeting was scheduled for 3:30 p.m., Mayor Lozano declared the Regular Meeting recessed at 3:30 p.m. * * * * * * * * Mayor Lozano reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 4:09 p.m. and asked for the presentation of the ordinances. City Manager Townsend briefly explained the ordinances on the agenda. Council Member Holt inquired about the ordinance concerning the supply of water for Mustang Island State Park and asked about the procedure in the event of a drought here in Corpus Christi. City Manager Townsend replied that contracts such as this always contain a clause that users will be subject to the rules and regulations of the City water contract, and this would permit the City to ration water if necessary. There,were no further questions concerning the ordinances; City Secretary Read polled the Council for their votes; and the following ordinances were appproved: Minutes - Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 10 SECOND READING: AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH MR. GABE HERNANDEZ FOR CONCESSION PRIVILEGES AT THE CONCESSION BUILDING AT THE PEOPLES STREET T -HEAD, SAID AGREEMENT TO BE FOR A PERIOD OF FIVE YEARS, ALL AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH IN THE AGREEMENT, A SUBSTANTIAL COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF, MARKED EXHIBIT "A". The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third and final reading by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz,' Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". THIRD READING - ORDINANCE N0. 14488: FINDING THAT THE MEXICAN FIESTA CELEBRATION BY OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR CATHOLIC CHURCH, ON NOVEMBER 5, 1978, IS IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC WELFARE; CLOSING THE 4200 BLOCK OF WEST THERESA AND THE 4200 BLOCK OF EAST THERESA, FROM BLOOMINGTON TO LOLITA STREET, TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC FROM 9:00 A.M. TO 9:00 P.M., ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 1978, FOR SAID FESTIVITIES SPONSORED BY OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR CATHOLIC CHURCH; PROVIDING FOR BARRICADES AND EMERGENCY VEHICLE ENTRANCE; PROVIDING FOR RESTORATION OF DAMAGED CITY PROPERTY, APPROVAL OF THE ENGINEERING AND PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR FOR CERTAIN CHANGES, REQUIRING PERMITS FOR BEER AND FOOD, COMPLIANCE WITH CITY CODES AND PROHIBITING PAINTINGS OR MARKINGS ON STREETS AND TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES; REQUIRING THE SPONSOR TO RESTORE THE AREA FOR USE FOR VEHICULAR TRAFFIC; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED APPLICATION PERMIT; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE: PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE. The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". ORDINANCE N0. 14489: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH MS. OLENE V. MIMES, dba ALPHA RENTAL PROPERTIES, DEVELOPER OF LAKEVIEW ACRES SUBDIVISION, WHEREBY THE CITY WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE OVERSIZE/OVERDEPTH OF THE SANITARY SEWER ACROSS LOT 8, BLOCK 1, LAKEVIEW ACRES SUBDIVISION, TO LAKEVIEW DRIVE, A SUBSTANTIAL COPY OF SAID AGREEMENT BEING ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF, MARKED EXHIBIT "A"; APPROPRIATING $4,515 OUT OF THE N0. 250 SANITARY SEWER BOND FUND FOR PROJECT N0. 250-77-15.4, LAKEVIEW ACRES SUBDIVISION, OVERSIZE/OVERDEPTH OF SANITARY SEWER LINE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". ORDINANCE NO. 14490: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH THE GOVERNOR'S COMMITTEE ON AGING FOR A GRANT OF $4,212.53 TO SUPPLEMENT THE EXISTING RETIRED SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM GRANT, AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH IN THE CONTRACT, A SUBSTANTIAL COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO, MARKED EXHIBIT "A", AND MADE A PART HEREOF; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". RESOLUTION N0. 14491: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO NEGOTIATE AND EXECUTE A CONTRACT WITH THE COASTAL BEND COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS FOR THE PROVISION OF SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR MEDICAID RECIPIENTS IN CORPUS CHRISTI AND NUECES COUNTY UTILIZING THE CITY'S ELDERLY TRANSPORTATION VANS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 11 ORDINANCE NO. 14492: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER AN AGREEMENT AMENDING THE CITY'S GROUP LIFE • AND HEALTH INSURANCE CONTRACT WITH CONNECTICUT GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY, EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 1978, TO PROVIDE CONTINUED HEALTH INSURANCE BENEFITS ON A VOLUNTARY BASIS FOR EMPLOYEES WHO RETIRE UNDER THE TEXAS MUNICIPAL RETIREMENT SYSTEM, SOCIAL SECURITY, OR THE FIREMEN'S RELIEF AND RETIREMENT FUND, HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE TO BE PROVIDED AT GROUP RATES AND TO BE PAID BY THE INDIVIDUAL RETIRING EMPLOYEE UNTIL HE OR SHE EITHER REACHES THE AGE OF 65 OR BECOMES ELIGIBLE FOR MEDICARE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". ORDINANCE NO. 14493: AMENDING THE COMPENSATION ORDINANCE, NO. 8127, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING SECTION 501 BY SUBSTITUTING THE ATTACHED REVISED SCHEDULE FOR THE EXISTING PUBLIC SAFETY SALARY SCHEDULE FOR THE EXISTING PUBLIC SAFETY SALARY SCHEDULE FOR POLICE, TO PROVIDE FOR A COST -OF -LIVING INCREASE OF 6% EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 1978 AND AN ADDITIONAL 2% COST - OF -LIVING INCREASE ABOVE PREVIOUS SALARY LEVELS EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 1, 1979; AMENDING SECTION 510 BY ADDING THE TITLE OF POLICE CAPTAIN TO THE ADMINISTRATIVE, EXECUTIVE, PROFESSIONAL AND LABORERS CLASSIFICATION; AMENDING SECTION 551.5 RATE OF PAY ON PROMOTION, TO PROVIDE FOR A MINIMUM 4% INCREASE; AMENDING SECTION 552.2 TO PROVIDE A METHOD OF COMPUTING FIRST SALARY ADVANCES AFTER APPOINTMENTS, PROMOTIONS, AND SUBSE- QUENT ADVANCES; AMENDING SECTION 552.6 TO PROVIDE FOR LONGEVITY PAY AND FOR A METHOD OF CALCULATION OF LONGEVITY PAY STEPS: AMENDING SECTION 552.10 BY ADDING THE PROVISION OF POLICE CAPTAIN TO FIRE AND POLICE CLASSIFICATION COMPENSATED UNDER THE GENERAL SALARY SCHEDULE; ADDING A NEW SECTION, SECTION 555, TO PROVIDE THAT FOR TRANSITION PURPOSES ONLY, THE CLASSIFICATION CHANGE OF POLICE CAPTAIN FROM THE POLICE SALARY SCHEDULE TO THE GENERAL SALARY SCHEDULE TO TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER SECTION 552.10, AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH HEREINAFTER; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING A SEVERANCE CLAUSE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". RESOLUTION NO. 14494: AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONSENT TO ASSIGNMENT TO THE CONTRACT DATED JULY 19, 1978 BETWEEN B -F -W CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC., A TEXAS CORPORATION, AND THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI TO B -F -W CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION, ASSIGNEE, ACCORDING TO THE ATTACHED COPY OF ASSIGNMENT AND CONSENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye".i ORDINANCE NO. 14495: REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 14485, PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON AGUUST 30, 1978; AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 14330 MAY 24, 1978, SO AS TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN ALTERNATIVE FORM OF AGREEMENT IN ADDITION TO THE AGREEMENT PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED WITH THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT FOR THE SALE OF TREATED WATER TO THE MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK FOR THE NEEDS OF THE PARK, IN THE AGREEMENT, A SUBSTANTIAL COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF, MARKED EXHIBIT "A"; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance was passed by the following vote: Lozano, Gulley, Diaz, Gill, Holt, Juarez and Sample voting "Aye". * * * * * * * * Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 12 Mayor Lozano called for petitions or information from the audience on matters not scheduled on the agenda. Mr. Robert R. Reed, 111 Lake Shore Drive, addressed the Council in regard to ad valorem taxes. He referred to the fact that the City had recently adopted an ordi- nance setting the ad valorem taxes at 80p per $100 on 100% of property valuation, at which time it was indicated that this amount would represent a savings of 7% over the previous year to taxpayers. Mr. Reed informed the Council that following revaluation of his property, his taxes were increased approximately 40%. He expressed opposition to ad valorem taxes and pointed out that the high taxes necessitated from increases in property revaluation are difficult for citizens to pay, particularly those who are on fixed incomes. Mr. Reed suggested to the Council that they consider the adoption of a system whereby the value of citizens' homesteads would remain the same until the property is sold. He explained that under this plan, the homeowner would not have to pay such high taxes until he sells his property, at which time he would have funds with which to pay the taxes. He expressed the opinion that the Council has the authority to set such a policy. Mayor Lozano questioned whether or not the Council could approve this type c of taxation plan, noting that the City must comply with the State statute on the matter. City Manager Townsend pointed out that the City is obligated to revaluate all property at its true market value each year. He stated that during the last session of the legislature, similar legislation was considered but not approved. Mr. Townsend stated that the Council can only increase the tax exemption for senior citizens. Mr. Reed pointed out that he and other property owners do not benefit from higher valuation of their property until they sell their property. Council Member Holt suggested to Mr. Reed that the State legislature would be the entity to make the changes he suggested. Speaking on another matter was Mr. Bill Sweetland, who requested that he be listed on the Council agenda September 13, 1978 for a presentation regarding certain improvements in the 400 block of Peoples Street. , _es Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 13 Motion by Gill that Mr. Bill Sweetland be listed on the agenda of September 13, 1978 for a presentation; seconded by Diaz; and passed unanimously. City Manager Townsend referred to the proposed settlement of the Coastal States-LoVaca Gathering Company matter in regard to who the trustee should be and informed the Council that eight customers, representing 54.9% of the total number of customers, preferred that the Mercantile National Bank of Dallas be designated as trustee, and eight customers, representing 20.6% of the total number of customers, preferred that the Texas Commerce Bank of Houston be designated as trustee. He sug- gested that since the City of Corpus Christi represents only 1% of the company's• total customers, this City should not even indicate a preference. The Council indicated agreement with this. * * * * * * * * City Manager Townsend informed the Council that the Holloway Construction Company has moved equipment onto the Choke Canyon Dam area, opened an office, is in the process of employing personnel, and it seems reasonable to consider a groundbreaking ceremony in the near future. He asked for the Council's opinion in regard to the role the City should play in connection with such groundbreaking ceremonies. Mr. Townsend pointed out that the ceremony will be conducted near Three Rivers, Texas, and arrangements will have to be made in regard to transpor- tation, food, etc., for participants from this City and from Austin. He asked if the Council felt that this expense should be borne by the City of Corpus Christi. Following discussion of this matter, City Manager Townsend stated that tentative plans will be prepared for Council approval. * * * * * * * * City Manager Townsend referred to the scheduled groundbreaking ceremony to be conducted by the Johnny Rodriguez Life Enrichment Center on Thursday. He stated that this matter had been discussed with officials of the organization, and they assured the City staff that they realized that a contract with the City had not been approved for use of the land in Greenwood Park, but the ground- breaking ceremony is just to commemorate the progress on the project. Mr. Townsend reminded the Council that the ceremony will be conducted at Greenwood Park at 3:30 p.m. if they cared to attend. Minutes Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 14 City Manager Townsend reminded the Council that they had requested that a recommendation in regard to the charter boat slips rental procedure be presented in two weeks. He explained that such a recommendation could not be prepared in such a short length of time and stated that he would like to recommend a solution to this problem after the matter has been resolved at the staff level and after discussion with the charter boat owners. The Council indicated their concurrence with this. In a related matter, Council Member Holt inquired about the progress of the proposal to operate a restaurant in the area of the T -heads on a barge. City Manager Townsend explained that this proposal requires a great deal of work before it is recommended to the Council, noting that some of the problems that must be dealt with include sewers, parking, etc. He stated that if the Council desires, the staff could present the concept as recommended by the Marina Board. Council Member Gill stated that she would like to see the plan as it includes sewers, parking, etc., before she votes to approve it, but not necessarily in complete detail. City Manager Townsend informed the Council that if they desire, a recom- mendation will be forthcoming within the next few weeks. He stated that there are three potential sites for such a restaurant -- the end of the L -head, end of the Peoples Street T -head, or some location immediately adjacent to the seawall where parking could be provided. Mr. Townsend further stated that if the Council agrees to the concept, the proposals could be received from individuals who wish to present plans. He also pointed out that there might need to be public discussion on the matter, since individuals have proposed such restaurants in the past. City Manager Townsend stated that the two parties who have expressed interest at this time are Mr. Bob Thorpe and the owner of Grandaddy's. Council Member Holt indicated that he felt that the Council should discuss the matter and either approve or reject the concept so that those who are interested in such a project would know whether or not to proceed with their plans. Further discussion followed, and City Manager Townsend stated that he will have the matter on the agenda in two or three weeks. h_ -..es Regular Council Meeting September 6, 1978 Page 15 Motion by Sample that the Council go into closed session to discuss per- sonnel matters under the authority granted under Article 6252-17 of V.A.C.S.; seconded by Diaz; and passed unanimously at 5:05 p.m. Mayor Lozano reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 5:19 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by Diaz, seconded by Sample and passed unanimously, the Regular Council Meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m., September 6, 1978.