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
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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
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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.
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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