HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 08/01/1979CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 1, 1979
2:00 P.M.
PRESENT:
Mayor Luther Jones
Mayor Pro Tem Edward L. Sample
Council Members:
Dr. Jack Best
Jack K. Dumphy
Betty N. Turner
Cliff Zarsky
City Manager R. Marvin Townsend
Asst. City Attorney Bob Coffin
City Secretary Bill G. Read
Mayor Luther Jones called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of
City Hall.
The invocation was presented by the Reverend Jose Davis of the Iglesia
del Nazarene 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 Jones presented Honorary Citizenship awards to the four students
who are visiting the City of Corpus Christi from the City's Sister City of
Yokosuka, Japan. The students and their local hosts are listed below:
Yokosuka Student Corpus Christi Student Host
Miss Motoko Oikawa Betsy Harris
Miss Motoko Naito Brenda Holt
Shuichi Chikuda Kyle Durden
Makoto Kobayashi Carlos Carrington
After the presentations of the awards, Mayor Jones explained the Sister
City program and noted that the student exchange program further enriches the
relationship between the two cities.
Mayor Jones then recognized Mr. Hank Deschner, Scout Master of Boy Scout
Troop No. 3, sponsored by the First Methodist Church, which is the oldest troop
in the City. Mayor Jones expressed the City's appreciation to this troop that
traditionally meets and greets the Japanese students upon their arrival in the City.
The Japanese students then presented a gift to Mayor Jones from the Mayor
of Yokosuka.
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Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 2
Mayor Jones announced the issuance of the following proclamations: "RUTH
GILL DAY" - Friday, July 27, 1979; "JIM WRIGHT DAY" - Saturday, July 28, 1979;
"NATIONAL CLOWN WEEK" - August 1 thru 7, 1979; "FRANKLIN BASS DAY" - Friday,
August 10, 1979; "CARL T. YOUNG DAY" - August 7, 1979; "JOE WATSON DAY" - Friday,
August 3, 1979.
Motion by Best that the Minutes of the Regular Council Meetings of June 20
and June 27, 1979 be approved as presented; seconded by Sample; and passed unani-
mously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones announced the scheduled bid opening on the following Engineer-
ing project:
Access to older neighborhoods. This project includes the following streets:
Driscoll Drive from Agnes to Kenwood;
Kenwood from Driscoll to Longview West;
Bluebonnet from Driscoll to Longview West;
Vi11a Drive from Quaile Drive to Baldwin
This work was included in the 1977 Bond Program and is intended to improve main
entrances to older neighborhoods where the access is not improved to the same
level as the streets within the neighborhood.
City Manager R. Marvin Townsend briefly described the project and asked Mr.
James K. Lontos, Director of Engineering and Physical Development, to conduct the
bid opening.
Mr. Lontos opened and read bids from the following firms: Heldenfels Bro-
thers, King Construction Company, Claude Chapman Construction Company, Isles
Construction Company, M E M Construction Company and APCCO, all of Corpus Christi.
Mr. Lontos stated that all of these companies had submitted the required bid bond.
Mayor Jones noted that the apparent low bidder was King Construction Com-
pany but that the bids will be tabled for 48 hours, pursuant to the requirements
of the City Charter, and referred to the staff for tabulation and recommendation.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Motion by Dumphy that Council Member David Diaz, who is out of the City, be
excused for just cause; seconded by Sample; and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 3
Mayor Jones called for the City Manager's Reports. City Manager Townsend
presented the following items with related comments and explanations and recommended
that:
a. A public hearing be held at 2:00 p.m. during the Regular Council Meeting on
August 15, 1979 for the purpose of considering annexation of 10 acres known
as the Yellow Rose Convention Center or Lot 6, Block 1, South Saratoga Acres.
The owners have requested annexation in order to obtain utilities.
b. A public hearing be held on August 15, 1979 on the Planning Commission's
recommendation that the following plan amendments be approved:
(1)
Sanitary Sewer - a number of revisions between the Westside and the
Oso systems and in the Oso System, as recommended by McCaughan and
Etheridge in 1974, and incorporated into final planning for treatment plant
work now underway.
(2) Sanitary Sewer - shift 35 acres at Holly and Kostoryz from Westside to
Oso System, and readopt the commitment of the balance of the square
mile between Holly and Saratoga and Kostoryz and Ayers to the Westside
Plan and to 1-3 (heavy industrial development).
(3)
Drainage - change 40 acres at the southwest corner of Staples and
Saratoga from draining east along Saratoga to draining south to the
Oso through a recently excavated channel.
(4) Drainage - Wooldridge -Staples outfall area.
c. Bids be received at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 21, 1979 for a 5 -year
lease -purchase of 2 disk drives, subject to annual appropriation. Six disk
drives now support the computer. Five of these drives are being lease -purchased
from SMI Computer Company. One is leased from IBM. An additional drive
is in the 1979-80 budget to support the growth of the tax and municipal
court offices and the new utility system. This type of lease should result
in a substantial cost reduction.
d. Annual supply contracts be awarded as follows:
(1) Lubricating oil, grease, solvent, anti -freeze and #2 diesel fuel to the
following firms on the basis of low bid:
SUSSER PETROLEUM COMPANY, Corpus Christi
Lot I (7,485 Gal. Solvent - % Increase 25.9% $ 6,362.25
TEXAS STAR SERVICE, INC., Corpus Christi
Lot 1I (18 Items) Motor Oil, Chassis Grease,
Transmission Fluid, Gear Lubricant & Farm Oil $42,221.85
% Increase 19.6%
Less Term Discount 1%
Net
+NBUSTRI.AE-EHBR+EANTS;-Eorpas-Ehrfstr-
* SUSSER PETROLEUM COMPANY, Corpus Christi
Lot III (2,300 Gals.) Anti -Freeze, 1-Gal.Containers
% Increase - 23.5%
(422.21)
$41,799.64
$ 7,015.00
*Bid Award made to Susser Petroleum Company following casting of lots since
both companies submitted identical bids.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 4
CRYSTAL PETROLEUM COMPANY, Corpus Christi
Lot V Item 1 80,000 gals. #2 Diesel Fuel
Transport Truck
Item 2 190,200 gals. #2 Diesel Fuel,
Tank Wagon
Item 3 2,420 gals. #2 Diesel Fuel, 55 Gal.
Returnable Drums
% Increase 99.
GRAND TOTAL
$66,720.00
$163.381,80
2,127.18
$232,228.98
$287,405.87
Bids were received from 4 firms. Price comparison shows an overall
increase of approximately 77%. Prices are subject to fluctuation.
(2) #1 Diesel Fuel for use in Transit coaches to
TEXACO, INC., Corpus Christi
278,000 Gallons #1 Diesel Fuel, Transit Truck
Deliveries
(3)
$206,504.00
This represents no increase in price over the current price, but is
an increase of 30C per gallon or 67.7% over the previous year's contract.
No bids were received. Texaco, the current supplier, has agreed to
continue to supply the City's needs but the price is subject to fluctuation.
Janitorial supplies to the following firms on the basis of low bid
meeting specifications:
BANCROFT PAPER CO., Corpus Christi
Lot I - Drinking Cups, Toilet Paper, Paper
Wipers (9 Items)
Lot V - Hand Soap & Pine Disinfectant (2 Items)
Lot VIII - Plastic Can Liners (3 Items)
Total ----
CENTURY PAPERS, INC., Corpus Christi
Lot II - Toilet Seat Covers, Brown Kraft Paper
(2 Items)
Lot 111 - Plastic Garbage Cans (11 Items)
Lot IV - Cleaners, Disinfectant & Floor Finish
(16 Items)
Lot VII - Sponges, Squeeges, Sprayers (5 Items)
Total ----
GULF COAST PAPER CO., Victoria
Lot VI - Oil Absorbent, Floor Dry (1 Item)
GRAND TOTAL
$ 18,274.34
2,377.98
4,175.08
$ 24,827.40
$ 821.21
2,685.48
11,382.77
296.89
$ 15,186.35
$ 215.00
$ 40,228.75
Bids were received from 11 bidders. Price comparison reflects an increase
of 4%. The apparent low bids of $9,696.70 by Bancroft Paper and $10,513.10
by Corpus Christi Janitor Supply on Lot IV did not meet various specifi-
cations. The prices are subject to fluctuation except for some items
in Lot IV.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 5
(4) Two items of lubricated plug valves to ESCO SUPPLY, Corpus Christi, on
the basis of low bid of $4,533.98. Bids were received from three firms.
Price is subject to fluctuation. Price comparison shows an increase of
14.6%.
(5) Ford Motor Company Repair Parts and Accessories to CHARLIE THOMAS COURTESY
FORD, Corpus Christi, for an estimated annual volume of $14,000 on the
basis of best discount offered. Bids were received from two firms.
(6) 1,405 cubic yards of ready mix concrete to SOUTH TEXAS MATERIALS COMPANY,
INC., Corpus Christi on the basis of only bid received of $64,582.50.
A price comparison indicates an increase of 23%.
(7) 5,300 feet of reinforced concrete pipe to TEXAS INDUSTRIES, INC., Corpus
Christi, on the basis of only bid received of $29,140.30. A price
comparison indicates an increase of approximately 15%.
(8) 7,500 feet of polyethylene plastic to CORPUS CHRISTI PIPE & SUPPLY
COMPANY, Corpus Christi, on the basis of low bid of $2,760.62. Bids
were received from 4 firms. Price comparison indicates an increase of
approximately 8%.
(9) 37 items of sewer tile and fittings to W. S. DICKEY CLAY MAhU`ArTURING
COMPANY, San Antonio, on the basis of low bid of $66,370.80. Bids were
received from 2 firms. A price comparison indicates an increase of
approximately 5%.
(10) 50,950 tons of flexible base caliche to SOUTH TEXAS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY,
Corpus Christi, on the basis of low bid of $300,325.50. Bids were received
from 3 firms. Price comparison shows an increase of approximately 19.3%.
The price is subject to fluctuation.
(11) 8 items of Oxygen, Acetylene and Nitrogen to BIG THREE INDUSTRIES, INC.,
Corpus Christi, on the basis of low bid of $3,850.98. Bids were received
from 4 firms. A price comparison indicates an increase of approximately
9%.
(12) Manila and Wire Rope to the following firms on the basis of low bid:
STONE COMPANY, Corpus Christi, Lot I - High Carbon
Chains, Grab Hooks & Cold Shuts (16 Items) $ 2,700.62
AMERICAN COTTON YARNS, INC., Hinsdale, Ill.
Lot 11 - Manila & Sisal Rope (16 Items) 829.08
AMERICAN NATIONAL ROPES, INC., Houston, Texas
Lot III - Wire Rope, Guy Wire & Wire
Rope Clips (15 items) 4,228.56
EST. GRAND TOTAL --- $ 7,758.26
Bids were received from seven firms. A price comparison indicates an
increase of 5.5%. Price is subject to fluctuation.
(13) General Motors Corporation Repair Parts and Accessories to GM PARTS
DIVISION, Dallas, on the basis of only bid received. The price charged
will be the parts list price. The estimated annual volume is $16,000.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 6
(14) Gas and Water Meters to the following firms on the basis of low bid
meeting specifications:
ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL, Houston
Item 1 - 800 ea. 200 Cu. Ft. 1" Pipe Size Alum. Gas Meters $ 30,400.00
Item 3 - 8 ea. 1,600 Cu. Ft. 11" Pipe Thread Alum. Gas Meters 2,024.00
Item 4 - 5 ea. 3,000 Cu. Ft. 3" Pipe Thread Alum. Gas Meters 2,970.00
Item 5 - 2 ea. 5,000 Cu. Ft. 4" Pipe Thread Alum. Gas Meters 1,908.00
Item 6 - 10 ea. 10,000 Cu. Ft. 4" Pipe Thread Alum. Gas Meters 15,100.00
Item 7 - 10 ea. Automatic Pressure Correcting Instruments
for 1,600 thru 10,000 Cu. Ft. Meters 4,640.00
TOTAL $ 57,042.00
NATIONAL METER PARTS, INC., Lancaster, Ohio
Item 2 - 15 ea. 415 Cu. Ft. l" Pipe Size Alum. Gas Meters $ 950.40
CARLON METER COMPANY, Grand Haven, Mich.
Item 8 - 1,200 ea. 5/8" x 3/4" Displacement Type
Water Meters $ 30,324.00
Item 9 - 50 ea. 3/4" Displacement Type Water Meters 1,741.00
Item 10 - 75 ea. 1" Displacement Type Water Meters 3,945.00
Item 11 - 35 ea. 1I" Displacement Type Water Meters
w/2 hole flange 4,200.00
TOTAL $ 40,210.00
NEPTUNE WATER METER COMPANY, Dallas
Item 12 - 35 ea. 2" Displacement Type Water Meters
w/2 hole flanges
$ 6,077.75
ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL COMPANY, Houston
Item 13 - 10 ea. 3" Compound Type Water Meters $ 7,050.00
Item 14 - 2 ea. 4" Compound Type Water Meters 2,098.00
TOTAL $ 9,148.00
GRAND TOTAL $113,428.15
Bids were received from 10 firms. Price comparison shows an increase of
7.15%. The apparent low bids of $1,960.80 on Item 3, $2,800 on Item 4,
$1,780 on Item 5, $4,000 on Item 6 and $4,520 on Item 7 by Singer
American Meter Division, Garland, did not meet various specifications.
The apparent low bid of $28,635.60 on Item 8 and $1,565.55 on Item 9 by
Precision Meter, Inc., Waco, were for multi -jet not positive displacement
meters. The multi -jet meter is still being tested for consideration for
inclusion in future specifications.
(15) Pest Control Service at 46 locations to BUSTER-SUMMY COMPANY, Corpus Christi,
on the basis of low bid of $3,728. Bids were received from four firms.
A price comparison indicates a 4.6% increase.
(16) 350 Police, 56 Airport Safety Security Guard, 65 School Crossing Guard,
and 50 Bus Drivers' uniforms to FAMOUS DEPARTMENT STORE, Corpus Christi,
on the basis of only bid received of $50,515.51. Price comparison
shows an increase of approximately 8%.
e. A contract to repair the engine and brakes on a GMC refuse collection truck
be awarded to EDABURN INTERNATIONAL TRUCKS, INC., Corpus Christi on the basis
of only bid received of $3,122.45.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 7
f. The two bids received, $13,582.80 from Handy Paint and Sandblasting and $13,664.00
from Construction Engineers, Inc. for painting the exterior of La Retama Library
be rejected on the basis of being in excess of the amount budgeted and authority
be granted again to receive bids at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 21, 1979. The
specifications have been revised to provide for separate bids for painting the
upper stucco area and the brick portion under the windows. The latter is
estimated to cost less than $2,000 and does not require formal bids. Separating
the contracts should encourage more bidding.
9•
A revocable easement, for a 4" diameter nitrogen line across Up River Road
in the vicinity of Navigation Boulevard, be granted to Air Products and Chemicals
Inc. The line will be used in purging other lines in the vicinity and other
related uses in the refinery area. The crossing will be placed by boring.
A fee of $116.00 will be charged consistent with the City Code.
h. A consent agreement be executed with the State Department of Highways and
Public Tansportation to permit the State to inventory and upgrade passive
warning signing and markings at various public railroad grade crossings. The
upgrading will include crossbuck signing, advance warning signs, number of
track signs and pavement markings. The State will contract with a private
firm for upgrading the crossings. The inventory and upgrading will be paid
for totally with Federal and State money. Once completed, the City .:11 be
responsible for maintaining the improvements except the crossbuck and number
of track signs.
i. Tax Roll Adjustments for 2-1-79 thru 4-30-79 be approved as follows:
City of Corpus Christi Water District
Prior Year Prior Year
1978 Levy Levies Levies
J•
Tax Levies 8-1-79
Previously Approved Adjustments
thru 1-31-79
Recommended change 2-1-79 thru 4-30-79
$18,774,493
(57,023)
( 5,851)
$1,738,659 $21,518
(13,327) ( 8)
( 4,569) (55)
Tax Levies 4-30-79 $18,711,619 $1,720,763 $21,455
The decrease in the 1978 Levy consists of a net decrease of $6,639 in real
property and a net increase of $788 in personal property. Real property
adjustments include $4,505 for 58 taxpayers, whose Homestead Exemptions were
proved valid, $1,506 decrease where clerical errors were made on 9 properties,
$270 decrease where improvements were taken off 4 properties, $256 decrease
where taxes on 1 property were transferred, $141 increase on 16 properties
where taxes were divided and an increase of $92 for property where the Homestead
Exemption was found to be invalid. Personal property adjustments include a
decrease of $682 for 15 taxpayers who presented records, $416 decrease for
19 taxpayers where wrong information was involved, $396 decrease for 8 properties
double assessed, $188 decrease on 4 properties where Homestead Exemptions were
found to be valid, $91 decrease for 8 properties which had no taxable assets
and an increase of $2,586 for 39 properties supplemented to the Roll.
The recommendation of the Marina Advisory Board be approved that Dry Berth and
Gear Box monthly rates be increased.
Lower level berth - $12.00 to $13.00
Second level berth - 9.00 to 10.00
Top level berth - 9.00 to 10.00
Gear Box - large 3.00 to 3.50
Gear Box - small 2.50 to 3.00
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 8
k. Bids be received at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 21, 1979 on Books by Mail
Service for the South Texas Library System for September 1, 1979 to August
31, 1980 to continue circulating paperback books to individuals in rural
areas without library service. The bidder will state the percentage dis-
count on list price for 4,400 paperback books, the cost of printing 6,200
catalogs, 4,000 book order cards and 8,000 mailing labels. There is only
one known supplier.
1. A contract be approved with the Texas State Library for the provision of
Interlibrary Loan Services by La Retama Library for the 26 county South Texas
Library System for September 1, 1979 through August 31, 1980. The cost
($77,844) is paid for by the State. It allows the borrowing of books not
available locally from ten major and thirty academic libraries in Texas,
all major libraries in Louisiana and many other libraries throughout the
United States.
m. 28 CETA Title VI and 10 Title II -D positions be approved. Of this total, 21
are recommended through worksite agreements and 17 with various City departments
and divisions. The Title VI positions are as follows:
(1) Airport - 1 to maintain landscaped area around the terminal.
(2) Auditorium - 3 - 1 to provide accounting support and 2 to provide
custodial services for the auditorium and coliseum.
(3) Crisis Intervention - 1 to provide clerical support for public awareness
campaigns and referral services.
(4) TEC - 4 - 3 to help process Title II -D and Title VI applicants and 1
to provide clerical support in jobs tax credit program.
(5) Nueces County District Clerk- 6 to file and index, cases, records, and
dockets.
(6) Greenwood Library- 2 to inventory library collection and revise card
catalogue.
(7) Sanitation - 1 to provide clerical support for new computerized route system.
(8) Nueces County Historical Commission - 2 to research county clerks and
other official county records.
(9) Nueces County - Building Maintenance - 1 to refinish old county owned
furniture.
(10) Arthritis Foundation - 2 to provide clerical support for public education
projects.
(11) Coastal Bend Halfway House for Alcoholics- 3 - 2 to assist resident managers
with services for residents and 1 to provide maintenance of grounds and
facilities.
(12) Kidney Foundation of the Coastal Bend - 2 to provide clerical and bookkeeping
support for public awareness.
Title II -D positions are as follows:
(1) Health Department - 3 - 1 to provide clerical support for the information
center and 2 to provide clerical support for the venereal disease and
immunization program.
(2) Data Processing - 5 to help merge data from the old utility batch billing
system to the new billing system.
Public Utilities - 2 to serve as temporary clerical help in the Customer
Service Office.
(3)
Minute.,
Regular Council Meeting
August I, 1979
Page 9
n. A contract be approved with the Texas Department of Human Resources to provide
a Title XX grant for $60,000 for September 1, 1979 through August 31, 1980 to
pay for a full range of family planning services for income eligible partici-
pants. The City's 10% local match consists of Data Processing Services for
Title XX billings. The City has received $150,000 for this program since
July, 1978.
o. The 300 Block of Peoples Street be closed to vehicular traffic from 5:00 P.M.
till 11:00 P.M., Friday, September 28, 1979, so the National Association of
Farm Worker Organizations can exhibit energy conservation displays and
demonstrations. A band will be provided and beer and food will be sold.
This event concludes a three-day energy conference to be held at the La Quinta
Royale Motor Inn on September 26, 27, and 28, 1979. The businesses in the
300 block of Peoples Street, the Peoples Alley Merchants and the Central
Business District Association offer no opposition.
P. The 1979-80 Budget be adopted and a tax of $.74 per $100 of assessed or
market value be levied.
q. The Compensation Ordinance be amended to provide a 7% cost -of -living
increase effective July 30, 1979, for all full-time employees and establish
a 5% differential in pay steps for Grades 14 through 22 with a tran.ition
schedule designed to minimize the cost of the transition.
r. The Compensation Plan be amended as follows:
(1)
to establish position of Stage Manager, Grade 23, to maintain and operate
the Bayfront Plaza Auditorium sound, lighting and rigging systems; and
Assistant Library Director, Grade 31;
(2) to reclassify positions of Zoning Coordinator from Grade 25 to Grade 28
and Senior Street Foreman 11 from Grade 24 to Grade 25 to recognize
increased job responsibilities;
to change the titles of Program Superintendent and Operations Superin-
tendent to Recreation Superintendent and Parks Superintendent,
respectively without a change in pay grade. These are familiar job
titles which were used until 1975. The titles now in effect have been
confusing.
s. A two-year agreement be approved effective September 1, 1979, with the Texas
Office of the Governor to provide for continuing the City as the Metropolitan
Planning Organization for the urbanized area to comply with Section 112 of
the Federal -Aid Highway Act. The City has served as the Metropolitan Planning
Organization for four years and receives Federal Transportation planning
grants to finance the planning effort. The urbanized area consists of Nueces
and San Patricio counties.
(3)
t. Interest earned on bond construction from the temporary investment of funds
remain in the bond funds rather than used for debt service. This action
will increase the amount of money available for construction of sanitary
sewer, storm sewer, park, airport, and other projects in 1979-80 by
approximately $480,000.
u. The homestead exemption for persons over 65 be increased from $13,500
to 18,000.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 10
v. The Compensation Plan be amended as follows:
(1)
Reclassify the positions of Director of Neighborhood Improvement -
Community Development Coordinator from Grade 32 to Grade 34 to
reflect additional responsibilities for development and coordination
of grant programs, and Housing Counseling Supervisor from Grade 23
to Grade 25 to be consistent with similar positions.
(2) Establish the positions of Budget Assistant, Grade 18; Tax Office
Manager, Grade 30; Collection Office Manager, Grade 26; Gas Office
Manager, Grade 30; Property Advisory III, Grade 25; Van Operator,
Grade 11; and Gas Field Supervisor, Grade 22.
These positions are included in the 1979-80 budget.
w. Acquisition of 126.97 acres at Rodd Field from the Heritage Conservation
and Recreation Service be approved.
Mayor Jones called for comments from the Council on the City Manager's
Reports.
Council Member Zarsky referred to the proposed tax rate of $.74 per $10U
of assessed or market value and stated that he would like to know the amount of
increase in the cost of the City's supplies, either percentage or dollar amounts,
over last year so that citizens will be aware of the impact inflation has had on
the City finances.
City Manager Townsend stated that the particular group of supplies listed
on the agenda today has increased in cost by approximately 33%; the budget con-
templates an increase in costs of between 15 and 20%; but apparently, the actual
increase will be up to 30%. Mr. Townsend noted that such increases will force the
departments involved to very judiciously use their materials.
Council Member Zarsky inquired if this cost increase will affect the
recommendation of the $.74 tax rate, and City Manager Townsend replied that he
did not think this would affect the proposed tax rate in view of the many other
issues to be considered.
In further reference to the tax rate and the budget, Mayor Jones informed
the audience that this Council has met every Monday night for seven weeks to
discuss the proposed budget, emphasizing the fact that their intention to adopt
the budget is certainly not a sudden decision but one which has been reached after
a great deal of thought and study.
Council Member Zarsky indicated that he is satisfied with the proposed bud-
get and agreed that action should be taken to adopt the budget.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 11
Council Member Zarsky did point out that the single-family dwelling taxpayer
is being assessed more percentage wise than anywhere else in the state; this is a
hardship on those property owners; and stated that he felt very strongly that
measures should be taken to relieve these taxpayers of this burden.
Mayor Jones then called for comments from members of the audience on the
City Manager's Reports.
Mr. Mike Zepeda, Business Agent for AFSCME, spoke in regard to the amendment
to the compensation ordinance which grants a cost -of -living salary increase of 7%.
He urged the Council to re-examine this increase insofar as the lower grade employees
are concerned. Mr. Zepeda stated that he felt that it would require at least 10.8%
salary increases for them just to maintain their current standard of living. He
also again pointed out that the sanitation workers employed in this City receive
much less than the same type of employees in other cities of Texas, particularly
in Beaumont.
Mayor Jones expressed his appreciation to Mr. Zepeda for his appearances
before the Council.
Mr. Raul Vasquez, representing LULAC Council No. 1, read a letter express-
ing his opposition to the proposed fare of $.50 for van service for the elderly.
Mr. Vasquez pointed out that the vans provide transportation for an average of
149 riders per month, and there seems to be no problem in serving these people.
He summarized by urging the Council not to approve this recommended fare.
Mr. John Cole, speaking as a private citizen, inquired about the $.74 tax
rate and inquired if this represents an increase or a decrease from last year's
rate.
Mayor Jones replied that this tax rate is 6c less than last year's rate.
Mr. Cole stated that he, too, wished to address the employees' pay increases.
He pointed out that a decrease of 6does not really mean very much to most tax-
payers, and the employees at the lower end of the City's pay scale will not
realize very much from a 7% increase. Mr. Cole expressed the opinion that the
tax decrease represents an illusory savings, and the taxpayers will not really
benefit very much. He suggested that the Council consider a smaller tax cut and
provide a larger pay increase for employees.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 12
Mayor Jones explained that the tax decrease was recommended because the
Council realizes that single-family dwellings are being increased in value 20% or
more and they hope to provide some relief by decreasing the tax rate by 6C.
Mayor Pro Tem Sample thanked Mr. Cole for his comments.
Mr. Tony Dominguez, a representative of United Steel Workers, expressed the
opinion that the 7% cost -of -living increase is very unfair for the employees in the
lower income brackets and urged the Council to consider granting a larger income
increase for employees below Grade 14.
Mr. Wayne Oates, a student of Del Mar College, stated that he is President
of a club that represents the handicapped and the club's aim is to aid the handi-
capped and attempt to make the City more accessible to the handicapped, including
buses. Mr. Oates stated that Council Member Turner had suggested that, as a
government student, it might be well to consider as a project in connection with
the government class, performing some research for the various Council Members.
Mayor Jones informed Mr. Oates that the Council is very concerned about the
cost of providing a wheelchair lift for the buses to enable the handicapped to
conveniently board vehicles.
City Manager Townsend noted that the first reading authorizing the pro-
posed fare for van service does exempt the handicapped from any fares, if they
are handicapped in such a way to make boarding a bus impossible.
Council Member Turner responded to Mr. Oates' suggestion that students be
allowed to assist the Council Members and explained that in Austin, and possibly
other cities, the Council Members have paid assistants, but she thought that it
would be appropriate for the local Council Members to have college students to
assist them in research and in obtaining necessary information as a part of their
college courses. Mrs. Turner informed Mr. Oates that this matter will be dis-
cussed by the Council.
Mr. Art Madrid, speaking on behalf of AFSCME, referred to the fact that
employees of the City are not allowed to appear before the Council and stated
that this discourages some employees from speaking and that he would like to
speak on their behalf. Mr. Madrid pointed out that the police officers will
receive an 8.17% salary increase rather than the 7% that other employees will
receive. He suggested that all employees are entitled to more than 7% if the
minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 13
police are going to receive 8.17%.
Mrs. Elizabeth Price, 4309 Loma Alta Road, appeared on behalf of senior citi-
zens and expressed opposition to the proposed fare of $.50 for van transportation
service.
Mr. Loyd Salazar, speaking on behalf of the National Association of Farm
Worker Organizations, referred to Item "o" of the City Manager's Reports pertaining
to the closure of the 300 Block of Peoples Street for an exhibit associated with the
three-day energy conference that will be conducted on September 26 thru 28, and
stated that his organization would like to have the full support of the City Council
for this event.
Ms. Mary Lou Martinez, an employee of the Nueces County Community Action
Agency, presented a petition containing 173 signatures, expressing opposition to
the $.50 fare for van service for the elderly.
No one else spoke in regard to the City Manager's Reports.
Motion by Sample that the City Manager's Reports, Items "a" thru "w," be
approved; seconded by Best; and passed unanimously.
Mayor Pro Tem Sample inquired as to the reason the citizens of Corpus
Christi are assessed more for single-family dwellings than other cities in the
State.
City Manager Townsend explained that in the City of Corpus Christi, property
owners of single-family dwellings are in the position of bearing a much greater
share of the tax roll than in other cities because the industrial areas outside the
City limits are not taxed, and other cities in Texas have annexed their industrial
areas and added them to the tax base.
* :c '; ',: * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones called for the ordinances. City Manager Townsend briefly
explained them. There were no comments from the audience; City Secretary Read
polled the Council for their votes; and the following ordinances were approved:
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 14
FIRST READING:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
BY AMENDING SECTION 55-5, CITY TRANSIT SYSTEM --FARES, BY ADDING A NEW PARAGRAPH,
(E), PERTAINING TO SPECIALIZED TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR THE ELDERLY AND HANDICAPPED;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading
by the following vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye";
Diaz, "absent".
FIRST READING:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
BY AMENDING ARTICLE II, MARINA, SECTION 12-61, "RATES AND RENTAL FEES FOR USE OF
SLIPS AND DOCK SPACE - SCHEDULE AND REGULATIONS", INCREASING DRY BERTH RATES BY ONE
DOLLAR ($1) PER MONTH AND GEAR BOX RATES BY FIFTY CENTS (500 PER MONTH; SPECIFICALLY
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 13889, SECTION 1, PARAGRAPH (2), (f) AND (j), PASSED AND
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON AUGUST 17, 1977; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND
PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading
by the following vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye";
Diaz, "absent".
SECOND READING:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS, FOLUME II, CHAPTER 55
UTILITIES, ARTICLE IV, GAS RATES AND CHARGES, SECTION 55-61, CLASSIFICATION OF
CUSTOMERS AND SCHEDULES OF RATES, AS SET FORTH IN ORDINANCE NO. 12210, AS AMENDED, SO
AS TO CHANGE THE SCHEDULE OF GAS RATES FOR ALL CUSTOMERS OF THE CITY -OWNED GAS
RATES FOR ALL CUSTOMERS OF THE CITY -OWNED GAS DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM BY PROVIDING A
NEW SCHEDULE OF RATES FOR ALL GAS CUSTOMERS; DELETING SECTION 2, PURCHASED GAS
ADJUSTMENT, AS SET FORTH IN ORDINANCES NOS. 11755, DATED OCTOBER 24, 1973, AND 11867,
APPROVED ON JANUARY 9, 1974 AND PUBLISHED JANUARY 15, 1974 IN THE CORPUS CHRISTI
TIMES; 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, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye";
Diaz, "absent".
SECOND READING:
AMENDING SECTIONS 21-18, 21-19, 21-20, 21-21, AND 21-21.1 OF THE CORPUS CHRISTI CITY
CODE, 1976, BY AMENDING THE CHARGES FOR SERVICE FOR GARBAGE COLLECTION TO PROVIDE
FOR AN INCREASE EFFECTIVE WITH THE BILLINGS OF CYCLE ONE FOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER,
1979; PROVIDING A SEVERANCE CLAUSE.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading
by the following vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye";
Diaz, "absent".
SECOND READING:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
BY AMENDING CHAPTER 36, PARKS, RECREATION, CULTURAL AND LEISURE TIME ACTIVITES,
ARTICLE II, COLISEUM AND EXPOSITION HALL, BY ADDING A NEW SECTION, 36-27A, ADOPTING
REGULATIONS FOR THE DISPLAY OF FIREARMS AT GUN SHOWS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR PUBLCATION.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its third reading
by the following vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye";
Diaz, "absent".
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 15
THIRD PEADING - ORDINANCE NO. 15021:
FINDING THAT THE BAYFEST '79 ON SEPTEMBER 28 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 1979 IS IN THE
INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC WELFARE; CLOSING THE 1200 THROUGH 1600 BLOCKS OF NO. SHORELINE
TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC FROM 8:00 AM FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 1979 THROUGH L2:00 NOON
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 1979; CLOSING THE 1100 BLOCK OF NORTH SHORELINE TO VEHICULAR
TRAFFIC FROM 6;00 P.M. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1979 THROUGH 12:00 M;NIGHT, SEPTEMBER
30, 1979; CLOSING ONE MUNICIPAL PARKING LOT AND THE BARGE DOCK, MORE FULLY DESCRIBED
IN EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED HERETO, FOR SAID BAYFEST CO-SPONSORED BY THE JUNIOR LEAGUE
OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS AND THE CORPUS CHRISTI ARTS COUNCIL; PROVIDING FOR EMERGENCY
VEHICLE ENTRANCE; PROVIDING FOR LIABILITY INSURANCE, RESTORATION OF DAMAGED CITY
PROPERTY, APPROVAL OF THE L.CINEERING s PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR AND THE
COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT DIRECTOR CR CERTAIN CHANGES, REQUIRED PERMITS FOR BEER AND FOOD,
COMPLIANCE WITH CITY CODES AND PROHIBITING CERTAIN PAVEMENT MARKINGS AND REQUIRING
THE SPONSORS TO RESTORE THE AREA FOR USE FOR VEHICULAR TRAFFIC; AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED APPLICATION PERMIT; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
FOR PUBLICATION, AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
THIRD READING - ORDINANCE NO. 15022:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
AND PARTICULARLY AMENDING SECTION 53-252 SCHEDULE IV -STOPPING STANDING OR PHRKING
PROHIBITED DURING CERTAIN HOURS ON CERTAIN STREETS, BY ADDING THERETO ITEMS WHICH
WILL HAVE THE EFFECT OF PROHIBITING STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING DURING CERTAIN
HOURS ON KINGSTON DRIVE, BOTH SIDES, 350 FEET NORTH AND 200 FEET SOUTH OF PANAMA
STREET AND ON PANAMA STREET AT KINGSTON DRIVE, FOR A DISTANCE OF 150 FEET AT THE
NORTHWEST AND SOUTHEAST QUADRANT OF THE INTERSECTION; PROVICING FOR PUBLICATION;
AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
THIRD READING - ORDINANCE NO. 15023:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
AND PARTICULARLY AMENDING SECTION 53-253 SCHEDULE IV, STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING
PROHIBITED DURING CERTAIN HOURS ON CERTAIN STREETS', BY ADDING THERETO ITEMS WHICH
WILL HAVE THE EFFECT OF PROHIBITING STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING DURING CERTAIN
HOURS ON CENTER DRIVE, EAST SIDE ONLY, FROM CARMEL PARKWAY TO CORAL PLACE; PROVIDING
FOR PUBLICATION; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
THIRD READING - ORDINANCE NO. 15024:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRIST', 1976 REVISION, AS AMENDED,
BY AMENDING CHAPTER 36, ARTICLE III, BAYFRONT PLAZA AUDITORIUM, SECTION 36-84,
RENTAL OF THE THEATRE, SUBSECTION A.L. CLASS I, BY ADDING A SENTENCE THERETO TO
INCLUDE ANY EVENT DURING WHICH CONTRIBUTIONS OF MONEY ARE SOLICITED FROM THE AUDIENCE
OTHER THAN DURING RELIGIOUS CONVENTIONS AND LOCAL CHURCH SERVICES: AMENDING SECTION
36-86, RENTAL OF CITY -OWNED EQUIPMENT, BY ADDING A NEW SUBSECTION, TO BE DESIGNATED
SUBSECTION "I", TO PROVIDE FOR RENTAL CHARGES FOR USE OF THE CONCERT GRAND PIANO.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed finally by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 16
ORDINANCE NO. 15025:
GRANTING A REVOCABLE EASEMENT TO AIR PRODUCTS AND CHEMICALS, INC. FOR THE PURPOSE
OF PLACING A 4" DIAMETER NITROGEN LINE ACROSS UP RIVER ROAD IN THE VICINITY OF
NAVIGATION BOULEVARD, ALL AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH IN THE REVOCABLE EASEMENT, 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 passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15026:
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONSENT AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT
OF HIGHWAYS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GRANTING PERMISSION TO THE STATE TO INVENTORY
AND PROVIDE UPGRADED PASSIVE SIGNING AND MARKINGS AT VARIOUS PUBLIC RAILROAD GRADE
CROSSINGS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, UNDER THE PROVISIONS
OF SECTION 203 OF THE HIGHWAY SAFETY ACT OF 1973, ALL AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH WITHIN
THE AGREEMENT FORM, A 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 passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15027:
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH THE TEXAS STATE LIBRARY FOR THE PROVISION
OF INTERLIBRARY LOAN SERVICES FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 1979 TO AUGUST 31, 1980, A SUBSTANTIAL
COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO, MARKED EXHIBIT "A" AND MADE A PART HEREOF; THE
CONTRACT PROVIDES $77,844 FOR THIS SERVICE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15028:
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A
RESOURCES TO PROVIDE A TITLE XX GRANT FOR
THROUGH AUGUST 31, 1980 TO PAY FOR A FULL
INCOME ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS, ALL AS MORE
COPY OF WHICH IS ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
CONTRACT WITH THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN
$60,000 FOR THE PERIOD OF SEPTEMBER 1, 1979
RANGE OF FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES FOR
FULLY SET FORTH IN THE CONTRACT, A SUBSTANTIAL
A PART HEREOF, MARKED EXHIBIT "A"; AND
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15029:
FINDING THAT A PUBLIC EVENT ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1979, IN CONJUNCTION WITH AN
ENERGY CONFERENCE SCHEDULED ON SEPTEMBER 26-28, 1979 IS IN THE INTEREST OF THE
PUBLIC WELFARE; CLOSING THE 300 BLOCK OF PEOPLES STREET TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC FROM
5:00 P.M. TO 11:00 P.M., FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 1979 FOR SAID PUBLIC EVENT SPONSORED
BY THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FARM WORKER ORGANIZATIONS; PROVIDING FOR BARRICADES
AND EMERGENCY VEHICLE ENTRANCE, LIABILITY INSURANCE, RESTORATION OF DAMAGED CITY
PROPERTY, CROWD SECURITY, PUBLIC RESTROOMS, REQUIRED PERMITS FOR BEER AND FOOD,
COMPLIANCE WITH CITY CODES, AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED
APPLICATION/PERMIT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 17
ORDINANCE NO. 15030:
APPROVING CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI BUDGET FOR THEENSURING FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING
AUGUST 1, 1979, AND ENDING JULY 31, 1980, ACCORIDNG TO THE CITY CHARTER FOR PURPOSE
OF FILING ADOPTED BUDGET WITH STATE COMPTROLLER AND COUNTY CLERK UNDER TEXAS BUDGET
LAW, BEING SUBJECT OF APPROPRIATION HEREUNDER OF MONIES FOR SAID BUDGET; PROVIDING
SAVINGS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15031:
PRESCRIBING THE TAXES TO BE LEVIED, ASSESSED AND COLLECTED BY THE CITY OF CORPUS
CHRISTI, TEXAS, FOR THE YEAR 1979 AND FOR EACH SUCCEEDING YEAR THEREAFTER UNTIL
OTHERWISE PROVIDED AND ORDAINED AND SUCH OTHER YEARS AS THE SAME MAY BE APPLICABLE;
PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15032:
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 8127, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING SUBSECTION 501, AS AMENDED,
BY SUBSTITUTING THE SALARY SCHEDULES ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBITS "A" AND "B" TO
PROVIDE FOR A COST OF LIVING INCREASE TO ALL EMPLOYEES EXCEPT FIRE AND POLICE;
AMENDING SUBSECTION 510 BY CHANGING CERTAIN POSITION TITLES, BY DELETING CERTAIN
POSITION TITLES, AND BY ESTABLISHING NEW POSITIONS, AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH HEREIN;
AMENDING SUBSECTION 552.11 BY DELETING THE PRESENT PROVISIONS AND IN LIEU THEREOF
ADOPTING NEW PROVISIONS TO PROVIDE A TRANSITION PROCESS AND SCHEDULE FOR EMPLOYEES
AS SET FORTH HEREINAFTER; PROVIDING A SEVERANCE CLAUSE; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE;
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dunphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15033:
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 3658, AS AMENDED, BY AMENDING SECTION 250 CLASSIFICATION PLAN
FOR ALL POSITIONS IN THE CLASSIFIED SERVICE BY ESTABLISHING AND BY CHANGING CERTAIN
POSITION TITLES, CODES AND CLASS GRADES; PROVIDING A SEVERANCE CLAUSE; PROVIDING
AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15034:
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A TWO-YEAR AGREEMENT, EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1,
1979, WITH THE TEXAS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR TO PROVIDE FOR RECONFIRMATION OF THE
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI AS THE METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION FOR THE CORPUS
CHRISTI URBANIZED AREA AND TO COMPLY WITH THE FEDERAL -AID HIGHWAY ACT OF 1973, ALL
AS MORE FULLY SET FORTH IN THE AGREEMENT, IN SUBSTANTIALLY THE FORM 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: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 18
ORDINANCE NO. 15035:
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AMENDED CONTRACT WITH THE COUNTY OF NUECES
FOR SPONSORSHIP OF THE NUECES COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH -MENTAL RETARDATION PROGRAM, IN
SUBSTANTIALLY THE FORM 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: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
RESOLUTION NO. 15036:
AUTHORIZING THE DEPOSIT OF INTEREST EARNED ON BOND CONSTRUCTION FUNDS TO THE CREDIT
OF EACH BOND CONSTRUCTION FUND; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
ORDINANCE NO. 15037:
FINDING THAT THE GRANTING OF A $18,000 ASSESSED VALUE EXEMPTION FROM AD VALOREM TAXES
FOR PERSONS' RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD WHO ARE 65 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER IS IN THE BEST
INTEREST OF THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI; EXEMPTING FROM ALL AD VALOREM
TAXES LEVIED EIGHTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($18,000) OF THE ASSESSED TAXABLE VALUE OF
SAID RESIDENCE HOMESTEAD OF SAID PERSONS UPON PROPER APPLICATION FOR SAID EXEMPTION
BEING MADE AS PROVIDED BY ORDINANCE NO. L1247, PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY
COUNCIL ON THE 10TH DAY OF JANUARY, 1973, AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCES NOS. 11918, 12211,
13856 AND 14417; PROVIDING THAT THIS ORDINANCE IS CUMULATIVE, PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Jones, Sample, Best, Dumphy, Turner and Zarsky voting "Aye"; Diaz, "absent".
Mayor Jones declared a recess at 3:21 p.m. and informed the Council that
the Regular Council Meeting would be resumed following the Special Council Meeting
scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 4:05 p.m. and called
for petitions or information from the audience on matters not scheduled on the
agenda.
Mr. Alfred Vela, 1418 15th Street, stated that he would like to address
the Council.
City Manager Townsend, noting that Mr. Vela is a City employee in the Fire
Department, interrupted Mr. Vela to inquire whether he planned to speak as a
private citizen or on a matter related to his employment as a firefighter.
Mr. Vela informed the Council that he is an elected official of the
Firefighters Association and that he wished to speak on their behalf.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 19
City Manager Townsend reminded Mr. Vela of the City's Standard Instruction
No. 1-11, dated July 7, 1975, which addresses the issue of appearances by City
employees before the City Council. Mr. Townsend briefly outlined the procedure to
be followed for such appearances, noting that any employee who wishes to appear in
a job related matter must first receive approval from his department head and subse-
quently the City Manager b,lfore speaking. City Manager Townsend informed the Council
that Mr. Vela had not properly followed these procedures and was subject to disci-
plinary action by appearing.
Mayor Jones inquired of Mr. Vela if he was aware of these Standard Instruc-
tions and realized the significance of this appearance.
Mr. Vela indicated that he was and stated that he wished to allow Mr.
Carceres to speak at this time.
Mr. Armando Carceres, President of the Firefighters Association, contended
that under the State law, the firefighters have collective bargaining rights, and
as a part of these rights, they have the right to select a prrson who best represents
their union, and they have chosen Mr. Vela to speak on their behalf. Mr. Carceres
continued by referring to the contract between the City and the local union, parti-
cularly the first phrase under Article 11, Section 1, which states that the City
recognizes the union as the exclusive bargaining agent for qualified firefighters
in the Fire Department of the City of Corpus Christi. Mr. Carceres further stated
that under this same Article 11, in the non-discrimination clause, it states that
the City will not discharge or otherwise discriminate against any employee who is
a member of, or supports, the union or participates in any lawful union activity.
Mr. Carceres then expressed the opinion that to deny Mr. Vela the right to repre-
sent the firefighters before the Council at this time is a clear violation of the
contract, of the State Statutes and possibly the Federal Statutes.
Mayor Jones stated that as Mayor, his position is that this is the public
portion of the Council Meeting at which time citizens are allowed to speak, but
pointed out that there are rules and regulations pertaining to appearances by City
employees and that he wanted to point this out to Mr. Carceres and Mr. Vela.
Mr. Vela indicated that he would like to speak on behalf of the firefighters
and would suffer the consequences, if any. Mr. Vela pointed out that the legislative
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 20
body of this City has mandated this body to recognize the Firefighters Union. He
informed the Council that the City's negotiation team and the unionareat an
impasse in their negotiations. Mr. Vela noted that the 7% increase offered the
firefighters and other City employees does not even compare to the amount of
the cost -of -living increases. He also pointed out that the cost of insurance for
employees and dependents has been increased as well, and because of this increase
and the inflationary cost -of -living increase, the firefighters feel that they are
justified in asking for a greater salary increase. Mr. Vela then summarized by
informing the Council that the firefighters are requesting the following: (1) a
substantial increase in pay, specifically, $150 increase across the board; (2)
that the City absorb the 24% increase in the hospitalization insurance for depen-
dents; (3) that their work week be reduced from 56 to 52 hours a week, and in lieu
of the time and a half between the 56 hours and the 52 hours, that the firefighters
be given one day off each six weeks; and (4) that the paramedics, once trained,
should be paid more than the City's offer of $20 for such certification. Mr. Vela
also stated that the firefighters' bargaining position is that they cannot afford
to bargain away their Civil Service rights as the Police Officers Association did.
He concluded his presentation by pointing out that the firefighters are charged
with the responsibility of protecting lives and property and urged the Council to
meet their needs which they feel are justified.
Mayor Lozano thanked Mr. Vela for his presentation.
Speaking on another matter was Mrs. Georgia Nelson, 325 Naples Street,
who explained to the Council about the numerous water breaks that had occurred
on her street, sometimes as many as four times each summer. Mrs. Nelson asked for
some relief from these occurrences because of the inconvenience created.
Mayor Jones agreed that this was too many water breaks and asked the City
Manager to provide a report on the conditions of this water line.
Mrs. Jesus Martinez, 4049 South Port Avenue, again addressed the Council
in regard to the inconvenience she has experienced at her fried chicken restaurant
since access has been severely limited because of street improvements.
After a short discussion, Assistant City Manager Archie Walker assured
Mrs. Martinez that this problem has been discussed with the State Department of
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 21
Highways and Public Transportation, and they have assured the City that they will
see that one lane of the street is open at all times and will place caliche in areas
where access needs to be provided.
Mr. Zepeda spoke again, stating that he was speaking on behalf of all the
City employees whom the union represents and informed the Council that they are
very disappointed in the low percentage of the cost -of -living salary increase. He
called to the Council's attention the fact that a large number of City employees
who are off duty are present in the meeting which indicates their concern with the
Increases just approved. He noted that the regular employees, other than the police
officers and firefighters, do not have collective bargaining rights, and they are
forced to ask repeatedly for a fair cost -of -living raise. Mr. Zepeda reiterated
that these employees are very concerned about their future and their welfare, and
when their problems are not taken care of by the Council, the; become insurmoun-
table. He urged the Council to think about these statements.
Mr. Philip Rosenstein, 949 Bobalo, presented the Council with information
pertaining to rabies and to statements attributed to Dr. W. R. Metzger that were
contained in a newspaper article in the July 18, 1979 issue of the Corpus Christi
Caller -Times. Mr. Rosenstein stated that Dr. Dayton L. Prouty of the Animal Control
Advisory Board has stated that the City of Corpus Christi does have a potential prob-
lem in regard to rabies. He also stated that Mr. George Lord, Supervisor of Animal
Control, had informed him that rabies is prevalent in areas all around the City.
Mr. Rosenstein mentioned the fact that Mayor Jones had stated during a Council
Meeting that they did not intend to do anything to enforce the leash law; the
Council did not respond at all to his request that these laws be enforced; and
intimated that if rabies should occur in this City, the Council will be responsible.
Mayor Jones responded to Mr. Rosenstein's remarks by stating that he was
misquoted because the City is doing everything possible to enforce the leash law
and rabies vaccination law, emphasizing that the statement he had actually made
was to the effect that the Council does not intend to increase the budget for this
element.
Mr. Carlos Valdez, representative of the Steel Workers of America, Local
5022, stated that he would like to speak on behalf of the lower paid employees of
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 22
the City, particularly those in the Sanitation, Street and Park Divisions, who will
be unable to maintain even a meager standard of living with just a 7% salary increase
in view of the fact that the cost of living has increased a great deal more than that.
Mr. Valdez charged the Council with being disinterested in the appeals made earlier
in regard to these salaries. He alleged that the Council Members have a comfortable
style of living, but they have denied such amenities to the lower salaried personnel.
He also referred to events that have occurred in other cities in which inadequate
salaries are paid to such workers.
Mrs. Nellie Gennaway referred to the street improvement project on Port
Avenue between Buford and Agnes Streets. She pointed out that all of the head -in
parking is being eliminated on this street; expressed her approval of the improve-
ments but asked that the head -in parking be retained; because without such parking
facilities, the small businesses located there cannot survive.
Mayor Jones explained that he had personally visited the business firms
in this area and had discussed the parking problems with the staff. He agreed
that there is no doubt that Mrs. Gennaway and the other property owners are victims
of the changing aspects of the City, and although he is sympathetic with her and
the other merchants, there is a real necessity to improve Port Avenue and consider-
ation must be given to improvements that will benefit the largest number of citizens.
City Manager Townsend agreed with Mayor Jones' remarks and reiterated that
this project has been discussed at length for a long period of time; this is the
last portion of Port Avenue to be improved; the project is moving forward at this
time; and pointed out that the improvements were requested by the Port Avenue
Businessmen's Association.
Speaking on another matter was Mr. Ricardo Gonzalez, 4514 Marie Street,
who expressed his opposition to the proposed $.50 charge for van service for the
senior citizens, pointing out that the elderly no longer live in family units, and
the numerous ones who live alone have no other means of transportation other than
the van service. Mr. Gonzalez pointed out that the elderly citizens have contri-
buted a great deal to the community and the van service is a means by which the
City can repay them for their dedication to the City. He suggested that informa-
tion be obtained as to the type of service that is provided in other cities.
minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 23
Mayor Jones suggested to Mr. Gonzalez that if he wishes the Council to have
such information, that it be provided them prior to next Wednesday's Council Meeting
so that the Council Members will have an opportunity to study it.
Mr. Gonzalez replied that he felt that it would be appropriate for the City
staff to prepare such information.
City Manager Townsend stated that other cities have been surveyed, and the
staff had already ascertained that free van service is not available.
Mayor Pro Tem Sample responded to Mr. Rosenstein's allegations pertaining
to Dr. Metzger by quoting from a letter received from Dr. Metzger in which he
stated that he is studying the outbreak of rabies in other cities and receives
reports weekly on the disease. He stated that Dr. Metzger has indicated that he
does not feel that rabies is a threat to this City at this time. Mr. Sample also
expressed regret that Dr. Metzger is retiring from the City in the near fuer^.
City Manager Townsend also pointed out that the local veterinarians have
arranged to have a veterinarian at the Animal Pound every day at 1:00 p.m. to
vaccinate all dogs that are brought in for only $5.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Sample asked about what will happen as a result of the little
confrontation that they have had with the firefighters and the effect this will
have on the negotiations.
Assistant City Manager Walker informed the Council that the City and fire-
fighters began negotiations on June 18, 1979, and they will not be considered to
be at impasse until August 17. He assured the Council that the City negotiating
team is ready to return to the bargaining table at any time.
City Manager Townsend stated that the firefighters have indicated that they
do not wish to meet to negotiate any further, but that the City still contends that
the appropriate place to settle these matters is at the bargaining table. Mr.
Walker verified this by stating that they have not met for almost two weeks.
Mayor Pro Tem Sample further pursued the matter by questioning the staff
as to their thoughts as to what a reasonable time would be for the firefighters to
receive retroactive pay.
City Manager Townsend indicated that he did not feel that he can address
a reasonable time element for which pay should be retroactive, but this item would
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
August 1, 1979
Page 24
be a bargaining point in negotiations. He pointed out that the present contract will
be in effect until a new contract is adopted by both parties and stated that the
staff would probably recommend retroactive pay for a few weeks, but certainly not
for a year.
Mayor Jones expressed the opinion that he does not recommend any action
other than the suggestion that the negotiations should continue at the bargaining
table.
Council Member Turner noted the presence of a large number of City Sanita-
tion Division employees and stated that while she was aware that they were present
for a particular reason, she would like to take the opportunity to thank them for
the excellent work they perform.
Mayor Jones also expressed his appreciation to the workers on behalf of
the citizens of Corpus Christi.
Council Member Zarsky assured the Sanitation employees that he is disappointed
that the Council cannot make it possible to approve a larger cost -of -living increase,but
he would like to remind them that the Council is basically attempting to follow the
recommendation of our national leaders.
There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by
Best, seconded by Sample and passed unanimously, the Regular Council Meeting was
adjourned at 4:50 p.m., August 1, 1979.