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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 06/10/1986PRESENT: Mayor Luther Jones Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Jack Best Council Members: David Berlanga, Sr. Leo Guerrero Joe McComb Frank Mendez Bill Pruet Mary Pat Slavik Linda Strong MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 10, 1986 2:00 P.M. Acting City Manager Ernest Briones City Attorney Hal George City Secretary Armando Chapa Mayor Luther Jones called the meeting to order in the Council Chamber of City Hall. The invocation was given by Reverend Dan Solomon of First United Methodist Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Council Member Pruet. City Secretary Chapa called the roll and verified that a quorum of the Council and the required Charter Officers were present to conduct the meeting. A motion was made by Council Member Slavik that the minutes of the Regular Council Meetings of June 3, 1986 be approved as presented; seconded by Council Member Pruet; and passed unanimously. * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones announced an unscheduled presentation by Mr. Bill Edwards and Mr. Joe Gardner. Mr. Edwards, representing the Citizen's Coalition, stated that there has been an agreement between the Citizen's Coalition and Bayfront Associates, Ltd., concerning the bayfront development. He stated that parties have signed an agreement in principle; it is an idea that he hopes will lie to rest all of the problems and will allow everyone to move forward with the project as well as get the City back on a strong economic course. Mr. Edwards stated that a part of this agreement reads that the public sector will own and control all areas and activities on the bayside of Shoreline Drive, which means there will be no lease of private interest under this agree— ment; the landmass is reduced to an area at the end of the freeway, approxi— mately 2 acres of land with a drive—around; there will be approximately 400 boat MICROFILMED minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 2 slips and a breakwater of the groin nature. He stated that there will be a festival market and parking garage on the upland site, and all will be subject to review by City boards and input from the community. He stated that this is a plan in which everyone can support and make a reality. Mr. Joe Gardner, Bayfront Associates, Ltd., thanked Mr. Ralph Durden, Mr. Craig McDowell, Assistant City Manager Tom Utter, City Attorney Hal George, and the members of the Citizen's Coalition. He stated that he feels this concept is the makings of a solution to all of the problems and is also an opportunity for the City. Mr. Gardner thanked the City Council. Acting City Manager Briones stated that the staff has been involved in the development of this agreement and he feels it is a good compromise between the developer and the coalition. In response to a question from Mayor Jones, Mr. Briones explained that the amendments need to be developed into the contract and those would be brought before the Council. City Attorney George stated that the first action of the Council will be to extend the performance date by six months and the festival market contract will be amended to conform to the key points in the new agreement. Mr. George thanked Mr. Ralph Durden for bringing everyone together in order to work out the problems. Mr. Craig McDowell stated that he feels it is a good step forward and will benefit the City. Council Member Guerrero inquired if the ground lease agreement would change. Mr. Utter stated that the lease would be amended to grant an extension to February 18, 1987; it is not anticipated that any private development will take place in the water; and that private development would take place on the first block of Shoreline. Mr. Guerrero inquired if the lease would be void, and Mr. Utter stated that it would not be until the festival market lease is worked out. City Attorney George stated that the basic process was to get key points in the agreement and not to solve the details. He stated that the details would be solved within the next six months, which is the reason for the extension. Council Member Guerrero stated that the Council was told the project was not viable without income from the boat slips -- now the City will own the boat slips. He stated that the Council has been sold out by the Coalition and Bayfront Associates; the changes that were made were "back room" changes; and he minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 3 resents the fact that the Council was not a part of these changes in any form or fashion. Mr. Guerrero inquired if the changes alter the contract. Mr. George stated that the performance date will be extended; it is still the same contract with the same considerations; and the land contract will be amended to include the key points of the agreement. Council Member Guerrero again inquired if the agreement amends the contract, and Mr. George replied in the affirmative. Council Member Guerrero referred to a referendum election and Mr. George stated that the contract can be amended without a referendum, but not renewed or extended. Council Member Guerrero stated that the Coalition took it upon themselves to set a precedent; they can go to the staff and make their own deals; that is not right; and he will not support this proposal. Council Member Pruet stated that he does not share the degree of anger as Mr. Guerrero. He stated that he feels the Council is very fortunate that a citizens group and a developer can sit down and resolve their differences. He stated that the citizens will be the winners. He stated that pride needs to be set aside and he hopes that this concept will be approved and that the details can be developed. Mayor Jones stated that he will support the key points of the agreement; this project will increase the number of slips in the marina and will provide a shopping facility in the downtown area. He stated that this matter could have been approached through litigation, which would have killed the project. Council Member Guerrero stated that his concern was that a threat of a lawsuit brought this about; this is a terrorist idea; and the Council is being held hostage. Mr. Briones stated that the key points would be before the Council as amendments to the contract. A motion was made by Council Member Pruet to accept the key points of the agreement in principle; seconded by Council Member Strong; and passed as follows: Jones, Best, Berlanga, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik, and Strong voting "aye"; Guerrero voting "no." The key points of the agreement are listed below as a matter of record: The leadership of the Citizens Coalition have agreed with represen- tatives of Bayfront Associates to the following key conceptual points and see them as an appropriate basis for moving forward. Together we call on the Corpus Christi City Council to take those actions .,inut e s Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 4 necessary to begin a process to implement the following resolution of the current bayfront development controversy: Key Points 1. Public sector will own and control all areas and activities on the bayside of Shoreline Drive. 2. City must take initiative and leadership, and a financial responsibility with Bayfront Associates to conduct necessary planning and project development studies to finalize the Project. 3. The radial marina concept is acceptable given total public ownership and control, plus minimum required fill area, and with the city exercising due diligence in bringing the marina project to reality. The city would commence construction contemporaneous with festival market commencement and construction, provided the revenue stream to the City from the project or other political bodies is sufficient to amortize the cost, and the necessary regulatory approvals are obtained. 4. Existing public process is adequate for full public input; and proposal goes to City boards (Parks, Marina, Bayfront Activity, Planning Commission, other public agencies, i.e., Port of Corpus Christi Authority, Regional Transit Authority), and then to Council. 5. Recognize the necessity to extend the performance date within the existing contract by six (6) months from its present expiration date of August 18, 1986 to February 18, 1987. The Festival Market contract will be amended within 60 days to conform to the key points contained herein. No third reading will occur on the Breakwater Park agreement prior to February 18, 1987. 6. Bayfront Associates shall have the right of development on the land side of Shoreline Drive, subject to providing fair market return to the public sector as determined by independent consultants who shall recognize audited prior costs of Bayfront Associates and their total estimated capital investment in the project. This assumes proper demonstration of financial responsibility and design having the benefit of full public process under No. 4 above. If Bayfront Associates elected in its discretion not to exercise this right of development, then the City is free to enter into agreement with another developer on this property. 7. These key points shall be expressly subject to approval by the City Council and the partners of Bayfront Associates, Ltd. Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 5 For -- Citizens Coalition /s/ Paul M. Gray, M.D. /s/ Donald G. Greene /s/ J. E. O'Brien /s/ Ed M. Notzon /s/ William R. Edward, Attorney For -- Bayfront Assoc. Ltd. /s/ Joseph C. Gardner /s/ R. D. Thorpe * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mrs. Jo Ann Carpenter, teacher at King High School, stated that 14 students have been selected to participate in the "People to People" program; this is an international visitation program which began in 1956; this is the first time students from Corpus Christi will participate; and the students will be visiting Sweden, Denmark, England, and Russia. Mayor Jones introduced the following students: Lawson Allen, Ray High School; Bill Eisenhauer, Calallen High School; Warren Houser, King High School; Michael Kennedy, King High School; Blakely Latham, Ray High School; Joey Moore, King High School; Donnell Ocker, King High School; Ron Reyes, Carroll High School; Stephanie Rhoades, Carroll High School; Ruth Shaver, King High School; Steven Sockwell, King High School; Dorianne Southcott, Flour Bluff High School; Sara Steward, King High School; and Stacy Wheeler, King High School. Mayor Jones stated that everyone is proud of the students and feels they will represent the country well. He stated that he will present the students with Goodwill Ambassador certificates. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones then administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Alicia Benevidez, Animal Control Advisory Board. the * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for consideration of Action from the Workshop Session on following item: M86-0289 Setting public hearings on proposed annexation of areas adjacent to the City of Corpus Christi as more fully described by metes and bounds and maps on file in the office of the City Secretary and made a part hereof by reference the same as if copied verbatim herein, such hearings to be held on June 23, 1986, at the time and meeting place designated herein in the area proposed to be annexed, and on June 24, 1986, at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, to provide an opportunity for interested persons to be heard and to make available to such persons for inspection minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 6 and explanation the proposed service plan for the extension of municipal services into each area to be annexed; and directing the City Secretary to cause the notice setting the public hearings on the proposed annexation to be published in the official newspaper of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, to wit: the Corpus Christi Times, it being a newspaper of general circulation, published within the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, said publication to be at least once in such newspaper not more than twenty (20) days nor less than ten (10) days prior to each of said hearings; and that public hearings on the proposed annexation shall be held in the areas proposed to be annexed as follows: a. Area "A", "B" and "C": Monday, June 23, 1986, 10:00 a.m. at the intersection of Crown Royal Drive, Highland Mist Drive and Canadian Mist Drive, in the Island Fairway Estates Subdivision, adjacent to the City of Corpus Christi at Padre Island. b. For all areas, Tuesday, June 24, 1986, at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 302 S. Shoreline, Corpus Christi, Texas. A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that the foregoing be approved; seconded by Council Member Mendez; and passed as follows: Jones, Best, McComb, Mendez, and Pruet voting "aye"; Berlanga, Guerrero, Slavik, and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that Eloise H. Alexander be appointed to the Municipal Arts Commission as a community -at -large representative (term to 9/1/88); seconded by Council Member Mendez; and passed as follows: Jones, Best, McComb, Mendez, and Pruet voting "aye"; Berlanga, Guerrero, Slavik, and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for consideration of the Consent Motions, items 1 through 14. 1. M86-0274 Approval of specifications and authorization to receive bids for water meter parts for the Water Division. The term of this agreement will be twelve months with option to extend for an additional twelve months, at the same terms and conditions, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Bidders will be asked to bid a percentage of discount from their published price list. Estimated expenditure is $56,000. Funds were approved in the 1985-86 budget. Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 7 2. M86-0275 Approval of specifications and authorization to receive bids for forty outdoor light fixtures and photoelectric controls to be used at Wesley Seale Dam. The estimated cost is $12,800 and funds were approved in the 1985-86 budget. 3. M86-0276 Approving a supply agreement for approximately 258,000 rounds of reload ammunition for the Police Department based on the low bid of $12,397.79 from Zero Ammunition Company. The term of this agreement will be twelve months with option to extend for an additional twelve months, at the same terms and conditions, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Thirteen bid invitations were issued, four bids were received. Prices have decreased approximately 4% from last contract of April, 1985. Funds were approved in the 1985-86 budget. 4. M86-0277 Approving the purchase of 945 tons of volcanic basalt material to be used as road aggregate by the Street Department from White's Mines for a price of $20,790 on the basis of sole source. This material will be used to test its durability against current material used as road aggregate. Funds were approved in the 1985-86 budget. 5. M86-0278 Approving the purchase of a skid steer loader from Tom Redding Co., based on low bid meeting specifications for a total price of $16,875.93. This unit is to be used by the Park Maintenance Division of Park and Recreation Department. Funds were approved in the 1985-86 budget. 6. M86-0279 Approving plans and specifications and authorizing the receipt of bids on July 8, 1986, for the Corpus Christi Beach Force Main Replacement. This project provides for the construction of a new force main to replace the existing main which was installed in 1956. The new force main will carry sewage directly from the Corpus Christi Beach Lift Station to the Broadway Treatment Plant, which will reduce flow on the main gravity sewer line serving the Downtown Area and should provide additional capacity in the Downtown system. This supplemental wastewater project was authorized in February, 1984, when local funds became available by the award of an EPA grant for the Laguna Madre Treatment Plant Expansion in Flour Bluff. 7. M86-0280 Accepting the Minor Storm Sewer Improvements, Phase II project and authorizing final payment of $3,456.60 to Backhoe Lease Service, Inc. Storm sewer relief lines to reduce the potential for street flooding were ninutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 8 installed in Hayward Drive between Ray Drive and Staples Street and from the intersection of King Richard and Friar Tuck Drives through a residential easement to an existing storm sewer box culvert in Gollihar Road. The total cost of this 1982 Storm Sewer Bond project is $34,566. 8. M86-0281 Accepting the Up River Road Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation project and authorizing payment in the total amount of the contract, $47,708.50, to Naylor Industries, Inc. A thermosetting resin type liner was installed in approximately 635 linear feet of the existing 18 -inch gravity sanitary sewer line along Up River Road between McBride Lane and Dona Drive. The project is being funded from the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund. 9. M86-0282 Accepting the Don Patricio Sanitary Sewer Improvement project and authorizing final payment of $30,483.34 to Corpus Christi Land Venture, Inc. A 15 -inch diameter sanitary sewer trunk line was installed along Flour Bluff Drive from an existing lift station near Purdue Road to Division Road and then easterly along Division Road. The total cost of the work performed on this 1982 Sanitary Sewer Bond project is $307,155.35. 10. Item Withdrawn - See Page 9 iidfMktfitig/thelikAAbkAf l/ddldlidddY+llGflkhkli$l A410117 ddldiddifid/MkAttfig M0i416S/Mkj/l1l/X9$Sl 4l 1Mkltftkkfltathilbkkblklz9/kAiklhfdddllde4ddddlaV /OW ldke(dlkfid 6f/tNk/tftkkf/0k/Oritik41 $/ dl6140{cbtiNktfOiliMtfftklgASltAlfKkll00ffb6flXkWtkkftbfilkfltftkkf Sk/U 4$Xtt)k41 fl TMk/fOdkddjdrllh'l1/a W//1kbkAbkkklltkjkfklldWdllidddllddl,Cv4l/UkktlISftkkf 16kf�bkkfi/QkMI, k/e Mladfd'lt1idl�ktflktbtk#$l/1/lhW/dfJ/thldltddVtfdddt(l1Xkik eWkZhitkrsfl 11. M86-0283 Authorizing the purchase of undercarpet flat wiring materials in the amount of $6,802.95 from Westinghouse Electric Supply to serve study carrels, copy machine, display cases and other free standing furniture at the Corpus Christi Public Library. The Westinghouse firm submitted the low bid for this electrical material which is not included in the general building contract for the new Library. Funds are available in the library contin- gency appropriation. Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 9 12. M86-0284 Scheduling a public hearing on June 30, 1986 by the Director of Planning in the Committee Room, City Hall, 8:30 A.M., and that a second public hearing be held on July 1, 1986 by the City Council at 2:00 P.M. on the contractual annexation of a 25.19 acre tract of land out of Lots 25-27, Section 6, and out of Lots 2-4, Section 7, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts. 13. M86-0285 Scheduling a public hearing on June 30, 1986 by the Director of Planning in the Committee Room, City Hall, 8:30 A.M., and that a second public hearing be held on July 1, 1986 by the City Council at 2:00 P.M. on the contractual annexation of a 47.63 acre tract of land out of Lots 8 and 9, Section 9, and Lots 30 and 31, Section 21, Lots 1, 2, 3, 14, 15 and 16, Section 22, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts. 14. M86-0286 Scheduling a public hearing on June 30, 1986 by the Director of Planning in the Committee Room, City Hall, 8:30 A.M., and that a second public hearing be held on July 1, 1986 by the City Council at 2:00 P.M. on the contractual annexation of a 23.56 acre tract of land out of Lots 25 through 27, Section 11, and out of Lots 7 and 8, Section 10, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts. Acting City Manager Briones stated that item 10 will be withdrawn from consideration. There were no comments from the audience; a motion was made by Council Member Mendez that motions 1 through 9 and 11 through 14 be approved; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Best; and passed follows: Jones, Best, McComb, Mendez, and Pruet voting "aye"; Berlanga, Guerrero, Slavik, and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for consideration of the Consent Ordinances, 15 through 19. Regarding item 16, contract for engineering services, Council Member Mendez inquired if the firm of Black and Veatch was local, and Assistant City Manager Lontos stated that they are based in Dallas and have been involved internationally in water and wastewater studies. Council Member Mendez referred to Ordinance 18 and asked for an explanation. City Attorney George explained that a nursing home owed a utility bill of approximately $600; when they filed bankruptcy, the Court awarded the City Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 10 shares of stock; and the City now needs to sell that stock. He stated that it is worth approximately $90. There were not comments from the audience; City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their vote; and the following were approved: 15. ORDINANCE 19346 AUTHORIZING EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS BY THE CITY TO CONDEMN FEE TITLE TO PARCEL 14C -D FOR THE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LAND ACQUISITION PROJECT AND TO ACQUIRE SAID PARCEL FROM THE OWNERS, JOHN H. KELLY, ET AL; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. 16. ORDINANCE NO. 19347 AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH BLACK AND VEATCH FOR PRELIMINARY PHASE DESIGN WORK AND GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION FOR AN APPROXIMATE 120 MILLION GALLON RAW WATER STORAGE RESERVOIR AT THE O.N. STEVENS WATER TREATMENT PLANT AND AN ADDITIONAL SLUDGE LAGOON; APPROPRIATING $67,500; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the ordinance passed as follows: Jones, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, and Slavik, voting "aye"; Berlanga and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. 17. ORDINANCE NO. 19348 CLOSING AND ABANDONING THE 10 FOOT WIDE UTILITY EASEMENT IN BLOCK 30, DEL MAR SUBDIVISION, SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS LISTED BELOW; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the ordinance passed as follows: Jones, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, and Slavik, voting "aye"; Berlanga and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. 18. RESOLUTION NO. 19349 AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE ACTING CITY MANAGER, HIS DESIGNEE OR THE FINANCE DIRECTOR TO LIQUIDATE, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER ANY AND ALL INTEREST OF THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI IN BONRAY DRILLING CORPORATION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the resolution passed as follows: Jones, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, and Slavik, voting "aye"; Berlanga and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. 19. ORDINANCE NO. 19350 AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, DIVISION 5, MUSEUM ADVISORY BOARD, SECTION 2-90, CREATED; MEMBERSHIP; TERMS; FILLING VACANCIES, SECTION 2-91, RULES OF . ,inutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 11 PROCEDURE; OFFICERS; COMPENSATION, AND SECTION 2-92, MEETINGS; FUNCTION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The Ordinance was read for the third time and passed as follows: Jones, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, and Slavik, voting "aye"; Berlanga and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * 20. M86-0287 Consideration of a claim for downtime charges in the amount of $11,271.55 submitted by Claude Chapman Construction Co., Inc. on the South Staples Sanitary Sewer Trunkline Extension, Phase II project. The staff recommends against allowing the full amount, and instead that $7,327.60 be paid the Chapman firm in settlement of the claim. Assistant City Manager Lontos stated that this item was withdrawn last week in order that the Legal Department could review the settlement. He stated that Mr. Chapman is agreeable to the staff recommendation. Council Member Pruet noted that Weber Road is also considered a State Highway, and inquiried if there were going to be similar problems as on the South Staples project. Mr. Lontos stated that a meeting has been held with the State regarding Weber Road. A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Best that item 20 be approved; seconded by Council Member Slavik; and passed as follows: Jones, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik, and Strong voting "aye"; Berlanga absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * In regard to item 21, a resolution regarding windstorm insurance, and in response to questions from Council Member Slavik, Assistant City, Manager Hennings stated that next Tuesday the Texas Catastrophe Property Insurance Association Board of Directors will meet in Corpus Christi; the resolution urges the Board to accept the Corpus Christi Building Code certificate of occupancy as sufficient indication of compliance with building regulations required for obtaining windstorm insurance; it urges them to reject insurance industry proposals to increase wind design criteria to 140 miles per hour for buildings in coastal counties; and the resolution will be presented to the Board at their meeting. There were no comments from the audience on the resolution or ordinance 22; City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes; and the following passed: Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 12 21. RESOLUTION NO. 19351 URGING THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE TEXAS CATASTROPHE PROPERTY INSURANCE ASSOCIATION, THE STATE BOARD OF INSURANCE, THE TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES INSURANCE COMMITTEE, AND THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS IN REGARD TO THE WINDSTORM INSURANCE POOL; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY. The Charter Rule was suspended and the resolution passed as follows: Jones, Berlanga, Best, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, and Slavik voting "aye"; Pruet and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. 22. SECOND READING AMENDING THE CITY CODE, ARTICLE 36, PARKS, RECREATION, CULTURAL, AND LEISURE TIME ACTIVITIES; SECTION 36-11, CURFEW, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, SUBSECTION (b) AND ADDING A NEW SUBSECTION (c); PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION. The Ordinance was read for the second time and passed to third reading as follows: Jones, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, and Slavik, voting "aye"; Best voting "no"; Pruet and Strong absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Council then recessed for five minutes at 2:55 p.m. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called on Assistant City Manager Utter to make a presentation regarding the following: CC'90 Target Objective No. 1 - To develop the Corpus Christi Marina and Shoreline Boulevard with amenities and people -use areas. CC'90 Target Objective No. 6 - To encourage artists and art groups to enhance the quality of life for residents and tourists alike, by using designated public areas for the performance, involvement and exposition of all art forms. Mr. Utter stated that Target Objection No. 1 has been viewed as the closing of Shoreline Boulevard and Target Objection No. 6 has been viewed as allowing the Art Community Center to use the City Hall Annex. He stated that these recommendations are more than that. Mr. Utter stated that No. 1 is a series of recommendations; the original CC '90 recommendation called for the closing of the east side of Shoreline with incoming traffic going down Water Street and southerly traffic on the west side of Shoreline. He stated that staff does not recommend closing Shoreline because it would result in the loss of three lanes of traffic; Water Street is under Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 13 utilized now, but as the City progresses into the future and other activities occur, there will be more need for traffic movement; and many citizens and tourists enjoy driving down Shoreline as a leisure activity; therefore, staff feels that Shoreline should not be closed. He stated that staff is recommending that the east side of Shoreline between McCaughan and Sherrill Parks be temporarily closed for festival events when necessary by routing traffic to Water Street and that this can be done with barricades. He stated that over the years if Shoreline becomes a viable festival area, there is another alternative, but the staff is not recommending that now. He stated that this would involve rerouting both lanes of Shoreline to the west side of Memorial Coliseum. Mr. Utter pointed out on a map the area at Buford and Water Street and the area owned by the First Methodist Church. He stated that the City would need to acquire the necessary right of way to make this "jog" a smoother transition and this would allow easy movement of the two lanes of Shoreline. Mr. Utter stated that the staff recommendation is not to close Shoreline, but to reinstate the Ad Hoc Bayfront Activities Committee to include representation of many city boards and other interested parties; i.e., Yacht Club, Feria Hispanica, Bayfest, Buccaneer, CC'90 and the First United Methodist Church. He stated that this would provide further study of Shoreline. He stated that staff is recommending that temporary closure be approved. Mr. Utter stated that Target Objective No. 6 addresses the realignment of Lawrence Street without signalization, but with landscaping and a pedestrian crossing; the construction of a series of shade structures with greenery; they are recommending that an architectural and engineering study by completed of the structure of the City Hall Annex to determine the economic feasibility of re -use; they are recommending the signalization of pedestrian crossing and landscaping of the Cooper's Alley -Shoreline intersection; and improvements to the Schatzel Street Pedestrian Corridor utilizing both private initiative and public expenditures. Mr. Utter continued and stated that they are recommending the demolition of La Retama Library; the creation of La Retama Vest Pocket Park; and the Bluff Balustrade renovation in accordance with the study performed by Govind and Associates and John Wright, Architect. He stated that the park would start at Upper Broadway; the existing stairs would be left in place; it would have a terrace water fall; and the bell would be placed at that location. He stated that in the center of the landscaped area there would be a central feature; that has not been specified, but the Central Business District will be raising funds for this feature. He stated that there would be landscaping throughout, including Oak trees. He stated that they are also recommending the landscaping of the People Street crossing and improvements to the Schatzel Street Pedestrian Corridor. ninutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 14 Mr. Utter stated that the tunnel may be a valuable item in the future, but at this time it is not; therefore, they are recommending it be closed, which the Balustrade Study also recommended. Mr. Utter summarized the recommendations: 1. Not close Shoreline, but have the ability to close it on a temporary basis; 2. Reinstate the Ad Hoc Bayfront Activities Committee; 3. Various landscaping items; 4. Authorizing demolition of La Retama Library; 5. Authorizing La Retama Park and Balustrade Restoration; 6. Lawrence Pedestrian Crossing and signalization of Cooper's Alley Mr. Utter stated that the staff is in agreement with all of the Boards, but emphasized that the Planning Commission does not ever want Shoreline Boulevard closed. In response to a question from Mayor Jones, Mr. Utter stated that each item will be before the Council again for individual action. Mr. Utter noted that Target Object No. 6 addresses the City Hall Annex but also designates areas for arts on the bayfront. He stated that staff recommends that the Park Board, Marina Board, and Municipal Arts Commission designate these areas. In response to a question from Council Member Mendez, Mr. Utter stated some funds would be utilized from CDBG, but that each project would come before the Council with a specific funding plan. In response to a question from Council Member Slavik, Mr. Utter stated that a representative from CC'90 would be included on the Ad Hoc Committee. Mayor Jones called for comments from the audience. Mr. Charles Blum, Chairman of the Park Board, stated that the area between the Church and the Annex was chosen as a bayfront activity park, but other areas were reviewed. Mayor Jones stated that the area by the Convention Center should be considered by the Ad Hoc Committee. Council Member Strong stated that she hoped the committee would listen to the people and recognize the importance of working out any differences. Mr. George Brown, 520 Chaparral, stated that he is very much in favor of what has been presented today and he feels that reactivating the Ad Hoc Committee is the right answer. He stated that the study on the City Hall Annex is needed so a sound decision can be made. He stated that he is in agreement Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 15 with the shade structures, landscaping, and parks and urged the Council to approve the staff recommendation. Reverend Dan Solomon, First United Methodist Church, stated that the church has been a vital part of Corpus Christi since 1846 and has had a downtown location since the first church was erected at the corner of Mesquite and Mann Streets. He stated that the church has maintained a presence in and contributed to the revitalization of the City and the bayfront; the church forms the southern anchor of Shoreline Drive and downtown; they are so committed to downtown that they have just purchased for $2 million all of the properties south of the present church building; and they have plans to develop the property with an additional expenditure of $1 million. He stated that the church is very concerned about the proposal to close Shoreline which would affect the ability of the church to fulfill its present ministry and would inhibit their ability to continue to grow and serve the community. Reverend Solomon stated that the Board of the church has voted unanimously to oppose the construction of an overpass that would funnel north bound traffic to Water Street; they are opposed to Water Street becoming a major inbound or outbound traffic artery; and they object to the loss of property at the point where they are planning a major development and new facility to serve the needs of the church. He stated that in addition, they oppose Water Street becoming one-way or any attempt to limit access to the church. He emphasized that they are opposed to Shoreline Drive being closed, except on a very temporary basis. Mr. Robert Kipp, 307 Montclair, President, Central Business District Association, stated that he would like to see all of the recommendations take place, but he stated that the existing stairway between downtown and uptown is not a good means of traversing this hill. He asked that the Council reconsider this and additional study be given to a solution for people to get up and down the hill. Mr. Woody Jones, 209 Cape Henry, stated that he is a member of First United Methodist Church; the church cannot tolerate the closing of Shoreline nor the construction of some type of overpass by their Church. He urged the Council to approve the staff recommendation. Council Member Strong asked Mr. Utter to address the subject of the steps on the bluff. Mr. Utter stated that there 1s an application pending to place the balustrade on the national register; the steps could not be removed without demolishing the fountain; the study that was performed does recommend that additional, safer stairs be constructed; and staff will be reviewing this closely and will have a recommendation in the future. Mrs. Dorothy Kucera, 4637 Wilma, stated that the architectural study of the City Hall Annex needs to be performed as soon as possible, and Mr. Utter stated that this would be an agenda within the next few weeks. minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 16 There were no further comments from the audience. A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Best that the Ad Hoc Bayfront Activities Committee be reactivated and that the following be put into effect: 1. a. Demolition of La Retama Library b. Creation of La Retama Vest Pocket Park and the associated Bluff Balustrade renovation; c. Completion of the Peoples Street Pedestrian Corridor d. Improvements to the Schatzel Street Pedestrian Corridor e. Realignment of the Lawrence Street T -Head; f. Signalization of pedestrian crossing and landscaping of the Cooper's Alley -Shoreline intersection; g. Street improvement work at the intersection of Chaparral and Kinney h. Additional landscaping areas on various streets on the Bluff i. Construction of shade structures along the Shoreline seawall j. Signalization and pedestrian crossing at both Twigg & IH 37 intersections k. Purchase of right of way at the intersection of Buford and Water Street to align Water Street for an easier transition of Shoreline Drive into Ocean Drive. 2. a. An architectural and engineering study be completed of the City Hall Annex to determine the economic feasibility of re -use. b. Areas be designated on the Lawrence Street T -Head, Peoples Street T -Head, and along the seawall upon which art displays and live performances could be held. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mendez. It was clarified that the name of the park would be La Retama Park. The motion passed as follows: Jones, Best, Berlanga, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik, and Strong voting "aye"; Guerrero absent at the time the vote was taken. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Jones called for petitions from the audience. Mrs. Jane Foster, Sinton, Texas, Assistant General Chairman of the Square and Round Dancers, informed the Council that on June 4 there was a delegation of square dancers in Corpus Christi; they were to be welcomed by a representative of the City; and no one from the City was present at their event. She stated that she was very embarrassed. Minutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 17 Mayor Jones apologized and stated that he would write a letter of apology to be included in the square dancers' publication. There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by Mayor Pro Tem Best, seconded by Council Member Strong and passed unanimously, the meeting was adjourned at 4:14 p.m., June 10, 1986. /td .,inutes Regular Council Meeting June 10, 1986 Page 17 Mayor Jones apologized and stated that he would write a letter of apology to be included in the square dancers' publication. There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by Mayor Pro Tem Best, seconded by Council Member Strong and passed unanimously, the meeting was adjourned at 4:14 p.m., June 10, 1986. /td I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of the City of Corpus Christi of June 10, 1986, which were approved by the City Council on June 17, 1986. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the fa fk-aay of`-� {, rt % . Armando Chapa City Secretrary City of Corpus Christi, Texas Lut er J y$ _ , MAYOR