HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 03/06/1986 - Joint Workshopu /t
Minutes
Special City Council Workshop Meeting
Held Jointly with Marina Board and Park & Recreation Board
City of Corpus Christi
March 6, 1986
Convention Center — Room 203B
4:15 p.m.
City Council
Mayor Luther Jones
David Berlanga
Leo Guerrero
Joe McComb
Bill Pruet
Mary Pat Slavik
Linda Strong
Marina Board
Hank Snyder, Chairman
Sam Allen
Bob Almendarez
John Stensland
Quentin Cook
Charles West
Charlene Forest
Scott Skinner
Robert Gross
Mayor Jones called the meeting to order at 4:19 p.m
purpose of the meeting was to consider a presentation by
an alternate plan for development in the Bayfront area.
Park Board
Charles Blum, Chairman
Dr. Bill Colson
JoAnne McNeill
Rene Gaytan
Joe Martinez
Al Parrish
Joe Rodriguez
Vic Menard
Randy De Lay
Guadalupe Valdez
. , and stated that the
Bayfront Associates on
A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that Mayor
and Council Member Mendez' absence be excused; second
Slavik; and passed unanimously.
The members of the Park Board and Marina Board then
and Mayor Jones introduced the staff.
Pro Tem Best's absence
ed by Council Member
introduced themselves
Mayor Jones read a letter from Colonel Gordon Clark, District Engineer,
Corps of Engineers in regard to the permit application for an eight—acre
waterfront recreation and tourism complex which stated that " I am
finalizing action by withdrawing your application without prejudice to your
rights to reinstate processing at a future date."
Mayor Jones called on Mr.
Joe Gardner, Bayfront Associates.
Mr. Gardner began his presentation by stating that sight had been lost as
to why any type of project was proposed for the bayfront; the Convention Center
was opened in 1981, but there was nothing for the tourists to do once they were
in Corpus Christi; and he feels that this project will extend the stay of
tourists. He stated that in August of '82 a request for a proposal was drawn to
build a landmass project; a number of public hearings were held; community
organizations and clubs were addressed; and there was a great deal of
controversy.
MICROFILMED
.inutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 2
Mr. Gardner stated that since the Aquarium was not to be a part of the
project, he was faced with an alternative; i.e., proceed with the project
without all of the controversial type shops and reduce the size, but the
controversy continued anyway. He stated that the new proposal will have no
buildings in the bay, but he proposes to create a breakwater park and marina
facility. Mr. Gardner thanked Assistant City Manager Tom Utter and the staff
for working on this proposal; he stated that staff has spoken to opponents and
proponents of the project; he feels they will be satisfied with the plan he is
presenting today; and he is present to receive a response from the Council as to
whether or not to proceed with the project. He emphasized that this is an
economically crucial project for the City.
He stated that the proposed project would remove all commercial structures
from the water and build a breakwater park with a one-way circular drive; within
that harbor, complete a marina facility with 400 to 425 boat slips; and the
Highway Department is willing to work for the relocation of I.H. 37, which would
allow Bayfront Associates to lease and use City land for the retail center. He
stated that the revenues to the City would be lower because the project will be
located on land.
Mr. Gardner stated that the waterfront festival market would contain
approximately 90,000 to 110,000 square feet, 30,000 square feet of major
restaurant and food service, 60,000 square feet of retail lease space, and it
will be located between Shoreline Drive, Belton, and Aubrey Streets, requiring
the rerouting of IH 37.
In response to a question from Mayor Jones, Mr. Gardner stated that the
Corps has the majority of the information they need, but an application would be
needed; it could take the form of a revised application or a new application;
the engineer's drawings of the breakwater are complete; and he feels the permit
should be filed as quickly as possible, even before an ordinance is considered.
Mayor Jones asked for comments from the staff.
Acting City Manager Briones stated that the Council had requested a
presentation by Bayfront Associates before the Park and Marina Board; Bayfront
Associates needs an indication that the Council is interested in this idea; they
stated that a letter signed by the Mayor would suffice; and the Council needs to
decide today whether or not they support the concept presented today. If the
Council decides they do want to support this, the staff would present a letter
for the Mayor's signature and advise the developer to continue to proceed with
the project; the City would then amend the lease and resubmit or amend the
application before the Corps of Engineers.
Mr. Hal George, City Attorney, stated that the staff submitted a letter on
March 4 regarding the Corps of Engineers letter; the Corps will take no further
action on the pending permit; the letter indicates there is no prejudice to
proceed; and a new or amended application may be submitted.
finutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 3
Assistant City Manager Tom Utter stated that he has spoken with proponents
and opponents of this project; in terms of this project, the staff had proposed
the rerouting of Shoreline; and the Highway Department has indicated they would
be willing to work with the staff on this. He stated that the terms and
conditions of the contract have been discussed, but a contract is not available
at this time, although it will be similar to the original contract. He stated
that even though the rate of return will be somewhat less, he feels the project
is economically viable.
Council Member McComb mentioned the possibility of creating a master plan
for the area from the Old Courthouse to the breakwater park.
Mr. Utter stated that this has not been considered.
Council Member Pruet requested information regarding the rate of return.
Mr. Utter stated that based on the Laventhol/Horwath study and an
input/output model, the rate for the first 20 years would be approximately $25
million; other taxes were approximately $15 million; a full analysis has not
been performed, but he feels confident that the sales would be reduced by 10%
resulting in a 20% reduction in the rate of return. He stated that in terms of
the project, the cost of construction of the commercial area, because of the
rerouting, would be $4.5 million. Mr. Utter then explained the rate of return
on the invested capital.
Council Member Strong questioned the meaning of the term " without
prejudice" as used in the Corps' letter and stated that it is her understanding
that a new or amended application could be filed, and she inquired if the staff
had considered the legal status of amending the current contract.
Mr. George stated that the existing agreement can be amended.
Mrs. Strong inquired as to what steps should be taken by the staff to
satisfy the requirements of the permit, with an amended agreement.
Mr. George stated that there would be public comment to the Corps of
Engineers, but he does not know if it would require a public hearing by the
Council. He stated that the time frame would be approximately 60 to 90 days.
In response to a question from Council Member Berlanga, Mr. Utter stated
that additional activity in this area makes the Old Courthouse a better project.
Mr. Utter explained that the first block off Shoreline is owned by the City, and
the second block is owned by the State. He also stated that the staff would not
want to harm in any fashion Sunfish Island, and this project would not affect
this island.
Council Member Guerrero stated that originally the Council was told that
the project could not be done on land; that it was not economically feasible;
and he inquired as to what has changed to make this feasible now.
inutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 4
Mr. Utter stated that even though the retail area is on land, it is still
connected to water activity, thus making it feasible but also reducing the gross
sales. He elaborated that by having the slips and park across the street,
it recaptures some of the lost activity. He emphasized that by not having water
activity, the project would not be viable.
In response to a question from Mr. Guerrero, Mr. Utter stated that the land
facility and the water park would be connected by some type of crosswalk or
possibly an overhead crossing. Mr. Utter also stated that the Council would not
be liable if the project failed.
Council Member Slavik stated that she would like a written opinion
regarding why the 1984 proposal did not require a referendum vote on the
project, adding that she considers this a new project.
Mr. Jay Doegey, Assistant City Attorney, stated that it did not require a
referendum because it was an amendment to the existing contract; the lease is
current now; the term of the lease will not be changed; and an amendment does
not require a referendum.
In response to Mrs. Slavik's questions, Mr. Doegey stated that regardless
of the change, it does not require a referendum because the same property is
still being leased for the same purpose.
Council Member Slavik again stated that she feels this is a major change
and requires a referendum, and Mr. Doegey repeated that the demised premises is
the same; it is part of the same area that was to be originally leased. Mr.
Doegey emphasized that it does not require a referendum.
Mrs. Slavik inquired if the staff had addressed this concern, and Mr.
Doegey stated that Mrs. Slavik has raised the same point before and the staff
responded at that time.
Mr. George explained that the City would be leasing the bottom of the bay.
Mayor Jones called on members of the Park Board to make comments.
Mr. Charles Blum, Chairman, stated that the main concern of the public is
to have no obstructions of the view on Shoreline, and with this plan, there are
no obstructions.
Mr. Randy De Lay stated that the City has a commitment to the hotel and
tourist industry and he feels this concept deserves merit and exploration.
Dr. Bill Colson stated that this project is needed in this area and he
feels the retail area would be away from the tidal area in case of a storm; the
marina facility is needed; and the tourist need something to do when they stay
downtown.
iinutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 5
Mr. Guadalupe Valdez inquired as to the cost of the project, if it will
create employment, and if the concept would be feasible in 20 years.
Mr. Briones stated that at this time, those questions cannot be answered
until an analysis is done.
Mr. Rene Gaytan stated that the concept should be considered and that the
City needs something to entertain the tourists.
Mr. Joe Rodriguez inquired if there would be landscaping, and Mr. Terry
Dopson, Director of Park and Recreation, stated that with the relocation of
I.H. 37, landscaping could be done.
Mayor Jones called on members of the Marina Board.
Mr. Quentin Cook stated that the project is a terrific idea; it could
possibly result in two projects; and he is in favor of it.
Mr. Bob Almendarez stated that he is in favor of the concept of the break
water park and inquired about the location of the boat slips.
Mr. Utter explained where the boat slips would be located and the manner in
which they would be constructed.
Mr. Robert Gross stated that he was in favor of the landmass; these
facilities would be better protected from storms; the project has merit; and it
deserves the right to be pursued.
Mr. Sam Allen expressed the opinion that since the City would be leasing
the land, they should advertise for competitive bids.
Mr. George stated that he is not aware of any legal requirement that the
land must be bid, noting that all of the land would be leased.
In response to Mr. Allen's question, Mr. Utter stated that the project
would meet all code requirements for parking.
Mr. Allen inquired if the existing rock groin would be removed, and Mr.
Dopson stated that he could not answer that question, but stated that the side
is still to be constructed as originally planned with riprap all the way around.
Mr. Utter interjected that Captain Boomer's would not be moved.
Mrs. Charlene Forest stated that she was in favor of the landmass; she is
in favor of this project; boat slips are needed in the Marina; and the
construction of the slips will not cost the City.
Mr. Scott Skinner stated that he was opposed to the landmass, but feels
this project is much more acceptable.
.inutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 6
Mr. Charles West stated that in his opinion the Council should approve the
concept for the project. He stated this would be a great benefit to the City.
Mr. John Stensland stated that the drawings of the project look good, but
the details of the construction of the slips should be discussed by the Council
when a final decision is made.
Mr. Hank Snyder, Chairman, stated that he is in favor of the project and
most of the board members are also in favor.
In response to a question from Mayor Jones, Mr. Utter stated that the break
water park would cost $4.5 million to construct and the boat slips would cost
$1.75 million.
Mayor Jones called for comments from the audience.
Mrs. Pat Duaine, 4909 Branscomb, stated that she would like for this to be
the point where everyone makes peace with one another; the Coalition was opposed
to the landmass because they love the City; and the people just want a voice in
this matter.
Mr. Nick Reyna, General Manager, Sheraton -Marina, stated that he represents
the Executive Board of the Corpus Christi Tourist Bureau and the Hotel -Motel
Association. Mr. Reyna stated that the motel industry employs unskilled people,
students, women, and minorities; an amenity is needed in this City; and he
strongly urged the Council to support the concept of this project.
Mr. Joe Gardner stated that he has seen divisiveness in the City and urged
the Council to take this opportunity to heal the wounds and get back into a more
harmonious stance.
Mayor Jones read the following letter that would be given to Bayfront
Associates:
"Bayfront Associates, Ltd.
% Nueces Development Company
5934 S. Staples, Suite 204
Corpus Christi, TX 78413
Attention: Joe Gardner
Dear Sirs:
"On March 6, 1986, Bayfront Associates presented to the City Council,
in preliminary state, an amendment to the conceptual design of the
project under Ordinance 17753, as amended.
mutes
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 7
"The City Council has reviewed this proposal and is generally
supportive of it. The Council has informally directed staff to
proceed with further development of this concept. The plans are not,
of course, in final form and have not been submitted as such. The
Council, therefore, has not formally considered the proposal.
"The Council does informally agree to proceed with development of a
formal amendment to the plans and specifications in accordance with
the presentation of Bayfront to amend the design to a breakwater park
with related boat slips with no commercial development. The
commercial area is to be moved to the first two blocks of I.H. 37.
"Final approval is contingent upon satisfactory amendment of the
existing contract, a new contract on the commercial area and approval
by all requisite governmental authorities in addition to the City of
Corpus Christi."
A motion was made by Council Member Strong to adopt the letter read by
Mayor Jones and seconded by Council Member Pruet.
Mr. Pruet requested that an addition be made to the letter to note that the
meeting held by the City Council was in conjunction with the Marina and Park
Board, and those two boards have been supportive.
Mrs. Strong indicated her concurrence.
Council Member Slavik stated she will abstain because she is concerned that
a referendum will not be held on the portion to be constructed in the water.
She stated that the Bayfront belongs to the citizens and that a referendum
should be held on the portion to be built in the water. She stated that deed
restrictions should be placed so as not to allow construction of commercial
buildings on the portion to be in the water and she asked the staff to
investigate this.
Council Member McComb stated that extensive consideration should be given
regarding the whole corridor leading to the Old Courthouse, and perhaps the
staff could present a master plan for this area.
The motion to accept the letter passed as follows: Jones, Berlanga,
Guerrero, McComb, Pruet, and Strong voting "aye"; Best and Mendez absent; and
Slavik abstaining.
There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by
Council Member Berlanga, seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed
unanimously, the Special Workshop Meeting was adjourned at 6:04 p.m., March 6,
1986.
ltd
_nut es
Special City Council Workshop
March 6, 1986
Page 8
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true
Minutes of the Special Council Workshop Meeting of the
March 6, 1986, which were approved by the City Council
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the Stt day of
and correct copy of the
City of Corpus Christi of
on March 18, 1986.
Ar do Chapa City Secretary
City of Corpus Christi, Texas
, 1986.