HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 06/08/1983MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 8, 1983
2:00 P. M.
PRESENT:
Mayor Luther Jones
Council Members:
Jack K. Dumphy
Herbert Hawkins, Jr.
Cliff Zarsky
ABSENT:
Mayor Pro Tem Betty N. Turner
Council Member Bob Gulley
Council Member Charles Kennedy
Deputy City Manager Ernest Briones
City Attorney J. Bruce Aycock
City Secretary Bill G. Read
Mayor Luther Jones called the meeting to order in the Council Chamber of
City Hall.
The invocation was given by the Reverend Pat Bullock of Annaville Baptist
Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United
States was led by Council Member Cliff Zarsky.
City Secretary Bill G. Read called the roll of required Charter Officers
and verified that the necessary quorum was present to conduct a legally
constituted meeting.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the Minutes of the
Regular Council Meeting of June 1, 1983 be approved as presented; seconded
by Council Member Hawkins; and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jores called for Consideration of the Motions from the Consent
Agenda on the following items:
1. Bids be received Jure 21, 1983 to overhaul and repair the bay patrol beat
for the Marina.
QEJLMED ►SCA 19 19‘14
Utes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 2
2. Authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement with Saber Refining
Company providing for Saber giving the City the right of ingress and
egress to the Hurter Ditch Outfall between I.H. 37 and Up River Road for
maintaining, improving and altering the Hunter Ditch. This ditch is a
natural drainage channel proposed to be utilized as part of the storm
sewer outfall for the Main Drive drainage project.
Mayor Jones referred to item 1 and inquired if the Staff had investigated
the possibility of purchasing a new boat.
Assistant City Manager Tom Utter stated that they had examined that
possibility through several sources; they have riot been able to find a used
boat and the cheapest boat that could be purchased would be between $60,000
and $70,000. He explained that the boats recently confiscated in Florida would
not be suitable for the bay patrol boat.
Mr. Bill Sky -Eagle, who was present in the audience, confirmed that the
Oil Spill Control Association agreed with the Staff recommendation to overhaul
and repair the existing boat.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the foregoing items be
approved, seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed unanimously by
those present and voting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones called for the Consideration of the Consent Ordinances and
Ordinances from Previous Meetings on items 3 through 16.
Mayor Jones referred to items 6 and 7 which authorized condemnation
proceedings for the acquisition of parcels of land located east of Airline Road
between Wooldridge and Sandra Lane for the Wooldridge -Staples Drainage Outfall
Project and asked that they be located on a map.
Mr. Jerry. Smith, Director of Engineering, located the areas on
transparencies and explained the City's offer to the owners of the subject
property which they had rejected. He explained that they both prefer that a
closed conduit be constructed for the drainage but the open drainage channel is
now recommended by the Staff and is included in the Master Plan. He
explained that these property owners are not developing their property at this
time; therefore, the City has to pay for these acquisitions.
Council Member Zarsky pointed out that the property owners who have
developed their property had to donate right-of-way for this drainage channel
as a condition of platting, yet, these two property owners do not have to
dedicate land because they are not in the process of developing their land. He
suggested that there should be some means of requiring these two owners to
pay for the right-of-way at the time they do develop their property.
utes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 3
Mr. Smith agreed and stated that that is a matter that the Staff would like
to consider but this will have to be determined by the Legal Department as to
whether or not the dedication could be made retroactive. Mr. Smith further
explained that a drainage box was originally planned; the property owners
dedicated right-of-way at that time with the understanding that it would be
constructed; but when the plan was changed to open ditches, the richt-of-way
was returned to the property owners and now they do not want to dedicate the
wider easement for an open ditch.
Council Member Dumphy suggested that the Off -Site Utility Committee
should address this problem and agreed with Mr. Zarsky's suggestion that these
two property owners should eventually pay for the right-of-way. He asked
that this matter be considered by that Committee.
Mr. Smith stated that he will present this to the Utility Committee and
provide a report for the Council.
Mayor Jores referred to Ordinance No. 8 in regard to the final assessment
roll on the Tracy Addition Street Improvements and asked about the one change
of a reduction on ore piece of property.
Mr. Smith explained that there were eleven such properties on the Tracy
Street roll that could be considered under the new ordinance on assessments,
but there was only one piece of property that was residential; therefore this
was the only one that was reduced.
Mayor Jones asked for an explanation of Item No. 11 in regard to the
construction of a bridge in Cedar Pass Drive at the Schannen drainageway.
Mr. Smith located the area on a transparency and stated that all four
property owners adjacent to this bridge will have to pay the existing developer
for their portion of the cost of the construction.
There were no further comments from the Council or from members of the
audience on the ordinances; City Secretary Read polled the Council for their
votes; and the following ordinances were approved:
3. ORDINANCE NO. 17626:
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 7725 PERTAINING TO CROSS DRAINAGE
CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI
AND THE STATE OF TEXAS TO INCLUDE A FOURTH STORM DRAINAGE
CUTFALL KNOWN AS TFIE HUNTER DRAINAGE CHANNEL; AMENDING THE
MAINTENANCE PROVISIONS OF SAID ORDINANCE; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
utes
rcegular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 4
4. ORDINANCE NO. 17627:
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH HI -LO
ENTERPRISES FOR THE RE -LIGHTING OF THE KIWANIS SOFTBALL
FIELD; APPROPRIATING $21,111 FOR THE CONTRACT AND FOR FENCE
REHABILITATION AND CONTINGENCIES; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
5. ORDINANCE NO. 17628:
AUTHORIZING AN APPRAISAL AGREEMENT WITH RICHARD CLOWER FOR
REAL ESTATE APPRAISAL SERVICES FOR THE ACQUISITION OF TWO
PARCELS IN CONNECTION WITH THE GEORGE EVANS SCHOOL AREA,
PHASE I STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT; APPROPRIATING $1,825 FOR
THIS AGREEMENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
6. ORDINANCE NO. 17629:
AUTHORIZING EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS BY THE CITY TO
CONDEMN FEE TITLE TO PARCEL 7 FOR THE WOOLDRIDGE-STAPLES
DRAINAGE OUTFALL PROJECT AND TO ACQUIRE SAID PARCEL FROM
THE OWNERS, DR. AND MRS. SALVADOR ORTIZ; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
7. ORDINANCE NO. 17630:
AUTHORIZING EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS BY THE CITY TO
CONDEMN FEE TITLE TO PARCELS 6 & 8 FOR THE WOOLDRIDGE-STAPLES
DRAINAGE OUTFALL PROJECT AND TO ACQUIRE SAID PARCEL FROM
THE OWNERS, DR. BYRON N. COWARD; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
.utes
.<egular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 5
8. ORDINANCE NO. 17631:
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 16816 BY AMENDING SECTION 3 IN ORDER
TO ADOPT THE FINAL ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR STREET IMPROVEMENTS
ON THE FOLLOWING STREETS:
TRACY ADDITION:
(1) Riggan, Cloyde, Lynch, and Terrace Streets, from Baldwin Boulevard
to 19th Street;
(2) Elizabeth Street, from Baldwin Boulevard to 18th Street;
(3) 19th and Tracy Streets, from Prescott Street to Terrace Street; and
(4) McKenzie Street, from 18th Street to 19th Street;
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
9. AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH E. H. MOORE
HOMES, INC. AND J. R. BUILDERS, Inc., FOR CITY PARTICIPATION IN
CONSTRUCTION OF GOLD RIDGE ROAD; APPROPRIATING $9,245.09 FOR
THIS AGREEMENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
10. ORDINANCE NO. 17633:
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH E. H. MOORE
HOMES, INC. AND J. R. BUILDERS, INC., FOR CITY PARTICIPATION IN
CONSTRUCTION OF CEDAR PASS DRIVE AND GRAND JUNCTION DRIVE;
APPROPRIATING $32,585.94 FOR THIS AGREEMENT; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
11. ORDINANCE NO, 17634:
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH B & G CUSTOM
BUILDERS, INC., FOR CITY PARTICIPATION IN CONSTRUCTION OF
CEDAR PASS DRIVE BRIDGE; APPROPRIATING $47,010.34 FOR THIS
AGREEMENT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
utes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 6
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
12. ORDINANCE NO. 17635:
AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT WITH EMERALD AIR FOR THE LEASE OF
SPACE AT THE CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT EFFECTIVE
JUNE 10, 1983; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
13. ORDINANCE NC. 17636:
APPROPRIATING $47,314.95 OUT OF PARK FUND NO. 291 AND $27,789.70
OUT OF PARK TRUST FUND NO. 111, AND $18,422.43 OUT OF SIXTH
YEAR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS FOR
REIMBURSEMENT AT VARIOUS PARKS TO THE GENERAL FUND NO.
102-266-518.43-603; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
14. SECOND READING:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 49, STREET AND
SIDEWALKS, TO PROVIDE PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STREETS FOR PUBLIC EVENTS.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the second time and passed to its
third reading by the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky
voting, "Aye"; Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
15. THIRD READING - ORDINANCE NO. 17637:
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES, BY AMENDING ARTICLE II,
MARINA SECTION, CHAPTER 12, BAYS, BOATS AND WATERWAYS,
SECTION 12-79, SLIP RENTAL CONTRACT BY ADDING SUB -PARAGRAPH
(h) TITLED REBATE FOR TRANSIENT CRAFT USAGE OF CONTRACTED
SLIPS WHILE VACANT, ESTABLISHING A REBATE BASED UPON A
PRO -RATA SHARE TO BE RETURNED TO THE CONTRACT SLIP TENANT
OR SUB -LEASE TENANT WHEN THEIR SLIP IS RENTED TO A TRANSIENT
CRAFT, AND ESTABLISHING A REQUIREMENT THAT SLIP TENANTS,
INCLUDING SUB -LEASE TENANTS, NOTIFY THE MARINA OFFICE OF
VACANCY, AS A CRITERIA FOR REBATE, SPECIFICALLY AMENDING
ORDINANCE NO. 13462, SECTION 1; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE
DATE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
.rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 7
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed by the
following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye'°;
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
16. THIRD READING - ORDINANCE NO. 17638:
AMENDING THE ELECTRICAL CODE BY ESTABLISHING THE
REQUIREMENT THAT ELECTRICAL SERVICE ENTRANCE EQUIPMENT BE
PROVIDED WITH MINIMUM LEVELS OF FAULT CURRENT PROTECTION;
PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE OF JULY 1, 1983; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERANCE; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing ordinance was read for the third time and passed by the
following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones noted that the public hearings on the zoning applications were
scheduled for 3:00 p.m.
A motion was made by Council Member Dumphy that the Regular Council
Meeting be recessed at 2:55 p.m., seconded by Council Member Zarsky and
passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 3:05 p.m. and
announced the public hearings on three zoning applications.
17. Application No. 381-13, Mr. Robert Maldonado, for a change of zoning from
11B-4" General Business District and "8-1" Neighborhood Business District
to "I-2" Light Industrial District being the west half of Lot 5 and all of
Lot 6, Block 4, and Lot 1, Block 5, Morris and Mitchell Extension of South
End Addition, located on the northwest and northeast corners of Brownlee
Boulevard and Morris Avenue.
Assistant City Manager Torn Utter informed the Council that of the
twenty-eight notices of the public hearing that had been mailed, one in favor
and two in opposition had been returned. He stated that both the Planning
Commission and Planning Staff recommend denial of the requested zoning but in
lieu thereof, that a special permit be issued on Lot 1, Block 5, to allow for the
storage of vehicles and with the requirement for a standard screening fence
subject to an approved site plan and that "B-4" zoning be retained on the west
half of Lot 5 and all of Lot 6, Block 4.
Mayor Jones inquired if the applicant had agreed to accept the City's
plans, and Mr. Larry Wenger, Director of Planning, stated that they had not
but that the plans were prepared in accordance with the requirements of the
Platting Ordinance. He located the area on the zoning and land use map,
described the land use in the surrounding area, showed slides of the area, and
utes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 8
stated that the applicant requested access from Brownlee but the Planning
Commission and Planning Staff did not recommend that. He also explained that
a citation had been issued to this property owner for nonconforming use.
No one representing the applicant was present and no one spoke in regard
to this application.
A motion was made by Council Member Hawkins that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed unanimously.
A motion was made by Council Member Hawkins that the Council concur
with the recommendation of the Planning Commission and deny the requested
zoning but approve the special permit according to the Staff drawn plan;
seconded by Council Member Zarsky and passed unanimously by those present
and voting.
City Secretary Read polled the Council for their vote on the ordinance
granting the special permit and it passed as follows:
17. ORDINANCE NO. 17639:
AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE UPON APPLICATION OF ROBERT
MALDONADO BY GRANTING A SPECIAL COUNCIL PERMIT FOR THE
STORAGE OF VEHICLES AND PROVIDING A STANDARD SCREENING
FENCE ON LOT 1, BLOCK 5, MORRIS AND MITCHELL EXTENSION OF
SOUTH END ADDITION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Zarsky voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
18. Application No. 583-4, Loeb & Company, Ltd., for a change of zoning from
11B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "B-4" General Business District
on all of Washburn Village and Lot 7A, Unit 2, Washburn Meadows, located
on the southwest corner of Weber Road and South Staples Street.
Mr. Utter stated that in response to the notices of the public hearing, one
in favor and none in opposition had been returned and that the Planning
Commission and Planning Staff both recommend approval.
No one spoke in regard to this zoning application.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed unanimously by those present
and voting.
Utes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 9
A motion was made by Council Member Dunphy that the requested zoning
of "B-4" be approved for Application No. 583-4 in accordance with the
recommendation of the Planning Commission; seconded by Council Member
Hawkins; and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Read polled the Council for their votes and the following
ordinance effecting the zoning change was passed:
18. ORDINANCE NO. 17640:
AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE UPON APPLICATION OF LOEB &
COMPANY, LTD., BY CHANGING THE ZONINC MAP IN REFERENCE TO
ALL OF WASHBURN VILLAGE AND LOT 7A, UNIT 2, WASHBURN
MEADOWS, FROM "B-1" NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS DISTRICT TO "B-'4"
GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dunphy, Hawkins and Kennedy voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
19. Application No. 583-6, AMI Riverside Hospital, for a change of zoning from
"AB" Professional Office District to "B-4" General Business District on
Riverside Hospital Tract, located on the south side of Farm Road 624,
approximately 1,200' west of U. S. Highway 77.
Assistant City Manager Utter stated that in response to the eight notices
of the public hearing that had been mailed, one in favor and none in opposition
had been returned. Fie informed the Council that both the Planning Commission
and Planning Staff recommend denial but in lieu thereof, that a special permit
be granted for the signs according to a site plan which had been submitted.
He stated that the Staff and Planning Commission have approved the site plan.
No one spo,:e in regard to this zoning application.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed unanimously.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the Council concur with
the recommendation of the Planning Commission and that this zoning request be
denied but in lieu thereof, that a special permit be granted for only the areas
where the signs will be located in accordance with the site plan which had been
submitted; seconded by Council Member Hawkins; and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Read polled the Council for their vote on the ordinance and
it passed as follows:
.rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 10
19. ORDINANCE NO. 176/41:
AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE UPON APPLICATION OF AMI
RIVERSIDE HOSPITAL BY GRANTING A SPECIAL COUNCIL PERMIT TO
ADD NEW SIGNAGE TO EXISTING HOSPITAL ON PORTIONS OF RIVERSIDE
HOSPITAL TRACT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing ordinance passed by
the following vote: Jones, Dumphy, Hawkins and Kennedy voting, "Aye";
Turner, Gulley and Kennedy, "absent".
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones called for the City Manager Report.
Deputy City Manager Ernest Briones informed the Council that the
Legislature considered a bill that would authorize cities to charge for health
care services, and there was another bill which was passed which prohibited
such charges. He suggested that the Council write a letter to the Governor
recommending that he veto the bill that would prohibit such charges.
Mayor Jones recognized Mr. Eddie Cavazos, Representative of the State
Legislature and welcomed him to the meeting.
A motion was made by Council Member Dumphy that such a letter be
prepared to request that the Governor veto the bill prohibiting the charges,
seconded by Council Member Hawkins and passed unanimously.
Mayor Jones expressed appreciation to Deputy City Manager Briones for
his efforts on behalf of the City of Corpus Christi in connection with various
bills before the Legislature.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones announced the public hearing on the following street closing:
19a. Public hearing on a street closing of the unopened extension of Saratoga
Boulevard east of existing Saratoga and Rodd Field Road intersection.
Mr. Smith located the unopened street on a transparency and stated that
the request was presented in conjunction with the platting of a new subdivision
of Greenfields by the Bay. He explained that the Master Transportation Plan
proposes that this section of Saratoga and a section west of this location not be
developed; therefore, the Staff recommends that this right-of-way be closed
since there are no plans to construct this portion of Saratoga.
There were no comments from the audience.
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed unanimously.
rtes
kegular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 11
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that this street closing
request be approved, seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed
unanimously by those present and voting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones noted that he had informed the members of the audience
earlier that the public hearing on the Ninth Year Community Development Block
Grant Application would not be opened until 3:30 p.m.
A motion was made by Council Member Hawkins that the Regular Council
Meeting be recessed for five minutes, seconded by Council Member Dumphy and
passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 3:35 p.m. and
announced the public hearing on the Ninth Year Community Development Block
Grant Application.
Mayor Jones explained that a number of hearings have been conducted on
this subject and explained to the audience that since there are only four
members of the City Council present, a vote will not be taken today. He
explained the procedure to be followed by stating that the spokesman for
particular groups will be allowed seven minutes and others will be allowed five
minutes to speak.
Mr. Utter provided a brief history of the Community Development Block
Grant Program which consolidated several types of funds. He explained how
meetings are conducted in neighborhoods to hear requests which are then
considered by the Planning Commission. He explained that the Staff prepares a
recommended application for the Council's consideration.
Mr. Utter continued by stating that basically, there are three items to be
considered today. (1) The public hearing concerns the Ninth Year Community
Development Block Grant Program and the City of Corpus Christi will have
$4,186,000 for this entitlement year. (2) The Council will be considering
reprogramming of funds from previous years and income generated and the total
amount of the closeouts is $1,006,793. (3) Congress, under the Jobs Bill, has
set up a supplemental appropriation which is separate from the entitlement
program and the total amount of this fund is $1 ,094,000.
Mr. Utter continued by stating that once the City Council makes a final
decision, the requests must be presented to HUD by August 1, 1983. He
stated that the requests included in the supplemental appropriation must be in
the HUD Office by July 1, 1983; therefore, there is a need to act very quickly
on that portion of the request. He referred to the package presented to the
Council and explained that it basically contains the following items: the Staff
and Planning Commission recommendation on the Ninth Year funds and the
reprogramming, together with the supplemental appropriation requests. He also
informed the Council that notices of the public hearing have been in the
Jtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 11
A motion was made by Council Member Zarsky that this street closing
request be approved, seconded by Council Member Dumphy and passed
unanimously by those present and voting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones noted that he had informed the members of the audience
earlier that the public hearing on the Ninth Year Community Development Bieck
Grant Application would not be opened until 3:30 p.m.
A notion vias made by Council Member Hawkins that the Regular Council
Meeting be recessed for five minutes, seconded by Council Member Dumphy and
passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 3:35 p.m. and
announced the public hearing on the Ninth Year Community Development Block
Grant Application.
Mayor Jones explained that a number of hearings have been conducted on
this subject and explained to the audience that since there are only four
members of the City Council present, a vote will not be taken today. He
explained the procedure to be followed by stating that the spokesman for
particular groups will be allowed seven minutes and others will be allowed five
minutes to speak.
Mr. Utter provided a brief history of the Community Development Flock
Grant Program which consolidated several types of funds. He explained how
meetings are conducted iri neighborhoods to hear requests which are then
considered by the Planning Commission. He explained that the Staff prepares a
recommended application for the Council's consideration.
Mr. Utter continued by stating that basically, there are three items to be
considered today. (1) The public hearing concerns the Ninth Year Community
Development Block Grant Program and the City of Corpus Christi will have
$4,186,000 for this entitlement year. (2) The Gourcil will be considering
reprogramming of funds from previous years and income generated and the total
amount of the closeouts is $1,600,793. (3) Congress, under the Jobs Bill, has
set up a supplemental appropriation which is separate from the entitlement
program and the total amount of this fund is $1,094,000.
Mr. Utter continued by stating that once the City Council makes a final
decision, the requests must be presented to HUD by August 1, 1983. He
stated that the requests included in the supplemental appropriation must be in
the HUD Gffice by July 1, 1983; therefore, there is a need to act very quickly
on that portion of the request. He referred to the package presented to the
Council and explained that it basically contains the following items: the Staff
and Planning Commission recommendation on the Ninth Year funds and the
reprogramming, together with the supplemental appropriation requests. He also
informed the Council that notices of the public hearing have been in the
ites
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 12
Caller -Times prominently displayed and the costs for the publications was about
$5,000. He informed the Council that the City has received many worthwhile
requests and the decisions cn the funding were very difficult.
Mayor Jones questioned Mr. Utter about the difference in the Staff and
Planning Commission recommendations.
Mr. Utter explained that one of the differences was that (1) the Staff had
recommended $372,500 for the assessment fund loans whereas the Planning
Commission recommended $272,000; (2) the Planning Commission eliminated the
demolition program, but the Staff recommended $29,500 for this funding; and
(3) in neighborhood facilities, the Planning Commission recommended $200,000 be
allocated to the Greenwood -Molina Day Care Nursery and $200,000 to the Gulf
Coast Council of La Raza Runaway Shelter whereas the Staff did not recommend
funding for these two agencies. He explained that the problem that the Staff
had with those items is that they felt that $200,000 should be retained in the
Local Option and Contingency Fund in the event some of the other programs
run over budget, but the Planning Commission recommended only $60,000 for
this purpose.
Mr. Utter also pointed out that the Staff has recommended more funds for
park projects than they ever have in the past and the reason for this is that
the City had many neighborhood requests for park improvements.
Mr. Utter also pointed out that the Staff is requesting that all
reprogramming furds be placed in a revolving loan program and they have
suggested a pilot paint program by which paint will be provided for
single -fancily owners and iri the case of handicapped or elderly, they will
provide personnel to perform the painting. Mr. Utter further stated that the
supplemental program covers a number of areas including Census Tracts 4 and
5 which have the lowest income in the City and the plans are to go in to clean
up those areas. He explained other items included in the supplemental
appropriation recommendations.
(A copy .of the Community Development Block Grant Ninth Year
recommendations and the Supplemental Appropriations Program are attached to
the Minutes and considered to be a part of them hereof.)
Mayor Jones asked Mr. Utter to summarize briefly the primary purpose of
this program.
Mr. Utter replied that the law specifies (1) elimination of slums and blight;
(2) projects should be included to directly benefit the low to moderate income
groups; (3) correct urgent needs; and (4) economic development. He
emphasized the fact that the program should principally benefit the low to
moderate income persons.
Mayor Janes then called fcr comments from the audience.
rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 13
Mr. Sam Allen, President of the Central Business District Association,
stated that he is speaking for Census Tract 3 and stated that they do not
concur with the Planning Commission or the Planning Staff recommendation. iHe
reminded the Council that there is a pressing need for a downtown parking
garage; in the Fifth Year Community Development Program, $400,000 was
allocated for parking in the downtown area; the Seventh Year Program has an
additional $500,000 for parking and/or economic development; but nothing has
been done towards constructing the parking garage. He stated that it was ;his
understanding that the Department of Housing and Urban Development would
like for the funds to be spent as soon as possible, yet for four years, nothing
has been done about the parking in the downtown area. He stated that the
Central Business District had requested an additional $400,000 for parking
garages and an additional $500,000 for landscaping Chaparral, but neither ,of
these items was included in Tract 3 because the only things included are the
overlooks and improvements to Artesian Park. He expressed the opinion that it
is incumbent upon the Council to at least spend the amount previously allocated
to purchase land and begin the plans for the parking garage.
Council Member Hawkins stated that he did not see the need for ttlhis
amount of money to be spent for a parking garage when there are so rainy
other needs in the City.
Mr. Allen pointed out that there are people of low and moderate income
who shop downtown who cannot afford to pay the parking fees at commercial
parking lots.
Mayor Jones stated that he was sorry that the garage had not been
constructed but indicated that he felt that there was a problem in the location
of such a structure, and Mr. Allen stated that there are several locations that
could be purchased or condemned for this purpose.
Mr. Utter assured the Council that the Staff will present to them some time
this summer a recommendation for a location for the parking funds.
Mr. Alien stated that they had been told this many times by the Staff but
no one from the Staff has even approached the Central Business District to
discuss the matter with them.
Mr. Hawkins suggested that these funds be reprogrammed, particularly,
since the area is included in the tax increment financing zone and will benefit
from that type of financing.
Mrs. Lois Reeves, representing the Greenwood -Molina Day Care Nursery,
introduced Mrs. Edna Jackson, the Director of that Facility. Mrs. Reeves
stated that they concur with the recommendation of the Planning Commissckon
that the nursery be awarded $200,000. She stated that there is a great need
for a new building, equipment, etc. with the building to be constructed on the
land that they already own.
.tes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 14
Mr. Utter pointed out that the Staff does not recommend this particular
project but the Planning Commission does. He also informed the Council that
furnishings for the building would not be eligible costs through CDBG. He
stated that the Staff felt that there were other items that had higher priorities
and the snatching grant funds that the nursery expects to receive may not be
available. He stated that it is very difficult to calculate the benefit of child
care centers and pointed out that there are many child care centers that may
request similar funding.
Council Member Zarsky agreed that if funds are provided for this day care
center, the Council would have difficulty in explaining this to other day care
centers in the area.
Mr. Joe Wharton, Chairman of the Northside Business Association, stated
that their group includes Census Tracts 4 and 5 where the commercial roan
program has been recommended. He explained that this is where Blacks
established homes after they left Indianola many years ago and a lot of the
structures are in pretty bad condition. He stated that the area has become
very rundown and dilapidated and they reed some help to improve the area.
He stated that they have requested $200,000 but they would really like to have
$400,000, noting that they would like to have the rental rehabilitation
increased.
Speaking on behalf of the League of Women Voters was Ms. Mary Rhodes.
She stated that they are very much in support of the allotments for park and
recreation improvements and the beach improvements including parking
facilities. She stated that the funding for park improvements would benefit the
entire population and the improvements at Corpus Christi Beach would benefit
the low and moderate income level citizens in particular.
Mr. Utter noted that both the Planning Commission and Planning Staff
recommend that $400,000 be allocated for parking for Corpus Christi Beach and
park improvements.
State Representative Eddie Cavazos stated that he is helping to promote an
idea for a seafood cannery program to be located in Corpus Christi. He
explained that several entities have offered their services including Texas A&M
which has offered to provide research assistance; Parks & Wildlife Department
has offered support; the Governor's Office has offered assistance; and stated
that he is very much in favor of this program because it would employ a lot of
people and bring a new industry into the area to be added to the tax rolls.
Council Member Durrphy inquired if all of the local delegation to the State
Legislature is in favor of this, and Mr. Cavazos replied in the affirmative. He
explained that they planned to produce a product that can be sold nationwide
and worldwide and this facility would increase activity for this area.
Mayor Jones noted that the Staff recommendation is for $90,000 for this
purpose, and Mr. Cavazos stated that they are very much in favor of this and
pointed out that a private loan will also be obtained.
ites
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 15
Council Member Zarsky pointed out that a similar operation was attempted a
few years ago but it was not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Mr. Cavazos stated that Texas A&M will do the research on this andthe
plant will sell both edible and inedible fish.
Council Member Zarsky asked about the planned location stating that he
had heard that it would be located in Flour Bluff.
Mr. Cavazos stated that the engineer for the project, Mr. Bill Ogletree,
would explain that.
Mr. Bill Ogletree, Ogletree & Gunn Engineering Firm, stated that after
they were =_elected as the engineering firm for the seafood industry project,
they attempted to find out what should be done. He stated that they had
requested $185,000 for planning expenditures that would have to be made before
a specific project could be described and a program established. He stated that
the funds they have requested are for that purpose and after the study has
been completed all of the questions will be answered in regard to location, etc.
Council Member Zarsky pointed out that possibly this project would be
eligible for IRE financing, and Mr. Ogletree agreed, stating that this would be
considered after the planning and study have been completed.
Mr. Charles McCaieb, 123 Oleander Street, addressed the Council in
regard to the seafood industry and stated that he felt that the meney
recommended for allocation by the Planning Commission and Planning Staff is a
viable use of CDBG funds but he felt that it should be privately funded. He
expressed the opinion that this industry would devastate sport fishing and
would create another bureaucracy. He also questioned whether it would be
successful.
Mr. Benny Benavides, 2421 Cleo Street, pointed out that some of the areas
in need are not included on the CDBG funding list. He mentioned, in
particular, the ,.area beyond Sam Rankin where there is a need for street
improvements as well as the area off of Agnes Street. He also pointed out the
need for a main artery for people to depart the City in case of a disaster such
as a hurricane.
The next speaker was Mrs. Gloria Perez, who referred to the proposal of
the Spohn Hospital Area residents which had been submitted to the City Staff
after the list was prepared. She stated that what they felt that a recreation
facility was needed in their neighborhood for children. She stated that they
could not afford to pay the day camp cost of $35 weekly which is sponsored by
the YWCA at South Bluff United Methodist Church. She explained that they
propose to have a facility in the same church with funds for scholarships for
the children. She stated their total request is for $21,000. Mrs. Perez
explained that the closest park is South Bluff and it is too far for small
children to walk.
rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 16
Mayor Jones inquired about the number of members in their organization,
and Mrs. Perez explained that there are about thirty but the group is
continuing to grow. She stated that they have become a unified organization as
a result of the efforts they have made in regard to the assessments for street
improvements in their area and they have become a close knit cooperative
group.
Reverend Tom Bryant of South Bluff Methodist Church agreed that their
church would like to make facilities available for this neighborhood program and
provide a recreation center for the children in the neighborhood.
Council Member Zarsky inquired if there was any prohibition about the use
of CDBG funds for this purpose and Mr. Utter replied that there was not.
Mr. Jack Gordy, 5802 Everhart, representing the Corpus Christi
Taxpayers Association, expressed opposition to paying tax funds. He pointed
out that there are a number of items on this list that will actually benefit the
low or moderate income but he objected to the funding for Meadowpark Park in
the amount of $13,500. He pointed out that funding for this park has been
provided several years and he also objected to the bayfront overlooks, noting
that they will not benefit the low or moderate income. He stated that since the
overlooks are included in the Reinvestment Zone #1, sufficient funding should
be available through that source for such overlooks. He also stated that he
was of the opinion that Corpus Christi Beach parking should be handled
through the Reinvestment Zone and stated that he did not think that these
projects would help the low to moderate income families. He urgently
requested that the City contact people in authority who are opposed to the
seafood processing plant because he felt that it would harm sport fishing. He
urged that other priorities be established in allocating funds through this
source. He concluded his remarks by requesting that the City contact the
following people about the seafood industries: (1) Mr. Gene McIntyre,
939-7784, who is employed at the fish hatchery; and (2) Mr. Frank Dickerson,
854-4303 of Parks & Wildlife Department.
Council Member Zarsky inquired if this application did not have to be
submitted to the Federal Government for approval, and Mr. Utter assured him
that it did. He also stated that the City must publish the final statement in
the newspaper and it has to be submitted to HUD for approval.
Council Member Dunphy inquired about the number of times the City has
been informed that they spent money for things for which the funds should not
be allocated.
Mr. Utter replied that they had a question about the Boys Club renovation
several years ago, HUD questioned the Headstart portable building and recently
the assessment program but no audit finding has ever been made and that was
about the only question that had been raised in regard to the City
recommendations.
jtes
kegular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 17
Dr. Maria Luisa Garza, Executive Director of La Raza, explained that this
is a social service organization. She stated that they have made a study of
things needed in this community and had arrived at the decision that the
greatest need is for a shelter for runaway children since nothing similar to this
exists in the City. She informed the Council that there is no shelter south of
San Antonio and approximately 1,000 children run away from their homes every
year. She stated that they are requesting $200,000 for renovation of a shelter.
She displayed a plan for a center to house twenty people, ten young women and
ten young men. She explained that the maximum stay will be thirty days;
counselors will be available to work with the children; they will have classes
and recreation; they will be supervised; and ar effort will be made to reconcile
the runaways with their families. She noted that such a shelter would alleviate
the pair and suffering of the young people and their families. She also pointed
out on the plan that they wish to include a store area where the young people
can be trained in cashiering and sales work. She urged that the Council
consider the request because it is within the guidelines of CDBG funds.
Council Member Zarsky stated that he understood that there might be a
religious order in Ca!alien that is performing this type of service.
Dr. Garza agreed that there is an agency that is doing some work in the
area but they are not set up to perform the service that La Raza plans because
they will be able to handle twenty young people at a time. She stated that
they will have a paid director and they hoped to find a building that can be
renovated. She explained that they have discovered that there are federal
funds available for the operation after the structure is in existence, but until
this occurs, the funds are not available. She emphasized the fact that this is
a one time only request.
Mr. George Finley, President of the Board of Directors of the Coastal
Bend Alcoholics Rehabilitation Center, Inc., informed the Council that they are
requesting the continued funding for their detoxification center. He explained
that they are providing a facility as an alternate to City jails and the streets.
He explained their facility and its successful operation and asked that their
funding be incr:.ased from money for six beds to enough for sixteen beds. He
stated that on an annual basis, this would amount to $97,920 and last year,
their organization was awarded $40,000. He explained the source of their
other funds noting that they have received a grant from a large organization
and from the State of Texas.
Council Member Zarsky expressed support of the program and Mr. Utter
explained that Mr. Kelly Elizondo, Director of Housing and Community
Develcpment, has discovered that there are a small amount of additional funds
available that possibly could be used for this purpose.
Mr. Briones stated that he was aware of the excessive costs for alcoholics
from personal knowledge and he felt that this was a very worthy project.
Utes
kegular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 18
Mrs. Lonna Shirley, 3336 Flour Bluff Drive, speaking on behalf of the
Flour Bluff Civic League, stated that they had originally requested $1,000,000
to widen Waldron Road, and the Planning Commission recommended that a study
be undertaker,. She expressed appreciation for the funds previously allocated
for their area, even though they were small, but indicated that since Waldron
Road is the main artery to Flour Bluff, it should be widened and improved.
Mr. Utter explained that the biggest problem for Waldron Road is the
drainage and the Staff feels that the study at approximately $50,000 would
assist the Staff in determining the costs of the street improvements. He
explained that it is possible that this street could be included in the next five
year bond program as well as 1984 CCEG funds. He mentioned that sidewalks
are planned and he recommended that they be installed anyway.
Also speaking in favor of this request was Mrs. Marie Spear, speaking on
behalf of the Four Bluff Business Association.
Mayor Jones informed the audience that the CCBG fund application will be
on the agenda for action next week or the following week.
Mr. Utter pointed out that this is just not the Ninth Year funds but also
includes the supplemental program and the reprogramming of funds.
Mayor Jones referred to the request for the funds for the
Greenwood -Molina Day Care Nursery and the Gulf Coast Council of La Raza
Runaway Shelter. He expressed the opinion that these are worthy projects but
he questioned whether or not the nursery deserved as much as $200,000.
Council Member Zarsky stated that he also has a problem making funds
available to one nursery when there are so many that are equally deserving.
He stated that he felt that the runaway shelter is a viable request because
there is no similar service available in this community.
Council Member Dumphy expressed the opinion that police, fire, water and
other basic services are the most important thing and are more necessary than
the nursery and the shelter for runaways. He expressed the opinion that
possibly, cities should not become involved in this type of program.
Further discussion followed and Mr. Utter informed the Council that fifteen
census tracts out of a total of thirty-seven are eligible for CDBG funding.
Mr. Elizordo pointed out that there are also a few others that are eligible
such as San Juan, San Carlos and Flour Bluff.
Council Member Zarsky referred to the signalization project under street
improvements and inquired if this is just for census tracts that are eligible,
and Mr. Utter agreed that certain areas of the City do receive more benefits if
they are eligible for CDBG funds.
.rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 19
Council Member Hawkins referred to the park improvement requests and
asked about funds for restroom facilities for Hillcrest Park. He noted that
there are funds for other parks but not for this park.
Mr. Utter explained that the reason the permanent restroom facilities are
not included in this year's funding is because the Staff wanted to try the
portable restrooms first to see how they work out, and if they are not
satisfactory, then the City will have to go to the permanent type. He pointed
out that in Hillcrest Park, particularly late at night, permanent restroom
facilities would provide hiding places and create a facility for vandalism whereas
the portable restroorns are leased and are replaced if they are damaged.
Mr. Utter summarized by assuring the City Council that they are free to
fund anything they wish -- they can select the Planning Commissi;cn"s
recommendation or the Staff's recommendation or select completely different
projects. He sucgested, however, that additional presentations not be allowed,
and the Council concurred.
Mayor Jones suggested that the Council study the lists provided and make
suggestions next week.
Mr. Utter pointed out to the Council that there is a need to submit the
supplemental appropriation to HUD by July 1st and that portion should be
approved on June 15th. He stated that the Ninth Year could be approved as
late as June 22nd.
Mayer Jones expressed appreciation to Mr. Kelly Elizondo for preparing the
Community Development recommendations.
Mr. Elizondo, in turn, introduced other members of his Staff who had
worked on the project.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jonas called for Petitions or Information from the Audience on
Matters not Scheduled on the Agenda.
Mrs. Catalina Martinez, 1309 Sixth Street, speaking on behalf of the Spohn
Hospital Area Street Improvement Residents, protested the widening of Elizabeth
Street to a four -lane street. She explained that this would have the effect of
cutting their neighborhood into small pockets vrhich would be the beginning of
destroying the neighborhood concept. She expressed the opinion that the
widening of this street from Staples to Ocean Drive for just a few blocks is a
waste of money. She also questioned the traffic count that had been presented
because she stated that it is a very quiet street now. She pointed out that
Morgan Street is a better entrance to Spohn Hospital than Elizabeth Street and
particularly questioned the expenditure of CDBG funds for widening streets to
serve the wealthy people in condominiums and visitors to Spohn Hospital when
there are needy people all over the City for which the funds could better be
spent. She urged that Morgan Street be the arterial street rather than
Elizabeth. She also objected to the assessments to be levied against the
rtes
Regular Council Meeting
June 8, 1983
Page 20
residents of Elizabeth Street when the street was being widened not for their
benefit of those property owners but for the benefit of other citizens in the
City.
Mr. Utter explained that widening Elizabeth Street is just the second phase
of the Spohn Hospital Area Street Improvements and disagreed with Mins.
Martinez by stating that Elizabeth Street is very heavily travelled and is; a
major thoroughfare but it is very, very narrow. He also reminded the Council
that according to the agreement with the Glasscock fill developers, Elizabeth
Street must remain open. He stated that he would provide an accurate report
on the traffic count.
Council Member Zarsky inquired if the Elizabeth Street project Es a
voluntary paving project, and Mr. Utter replied that it was not.
Mr. Zarsky then expressed the opinion that residents should not be
assessed for the improvements since it is obvious the street is being improved
and widened for the use of all citizens who visit Spohr Hospital.
Mrs. Gloria Perez stated that she lives on Seventh Street; it is being
widened; it is residential and there is no reason for a wider street because the
narrow street is safer for the children. She expressed the opinion that thiis is
probably being done for future businesses since most of the zoning is
commercial.
There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by
Council Member Dumphy, seconded by Council Member Zarsky, and passed
unanimously, the Regular Council Meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m., Jurve 8,
1983.
DZ/rr