HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 03/10/1987MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 10, 1987
2:00 P.M.
PRESENT
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
City Manager Craig McDowell
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 William Schuster of Mt. Olive Lutheran
Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United
States was led by Council Member Frank Mendez.
City Secretary Armando Chapa called the roll and verified that the
necessary quorum of the Council and the required Charter Officers were present
to conduct the meeting.
A motion was made by Council Member Berlanga that the Minutes of the
Regular Council Meeting of March 5, 1987 be approved as presented; seconded by
Council Member Strong; and passed unanimously.
Mayor Jones acknowledged Mr. Daniel Martinez of the Valero Refining Company
and stated that Council Member Leo Guerrero would accept the check because the
idea for Operation Heat Help started on a recommendation from Mr. Guerrero.
Mr. Danny Martinez then presented a check to the City Council in the amount
of $1,000. He expressed pleasure in making this contribution on behalf of all
the Valero employees. He stated that Operation Heat Help has been a great
success.
Council Member Guerrero noted that Danny Martinez and Valero Energy were
present at the inception of the program in 1984. He stated that there were no
finances for this operation and Valero started them off with seed money. He
mentioned that this year alone over $40,000 was spent on Operation Heat Help.
MICROFILMED
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 2
Mayor Jones asked Council Member Guerrero to explain to the audience what
Operation Heat Help is and how they can participate.
Council Member Guerrero explained that citizgns may participate by
indicating on their bill that they wish to participate; that money is given to
the City of Corpus Christi for the elderly, people with low income or people on
fixed incomes; and those people are qualified by the county for assistance in
paying their bills.
Mayor Jones then asked Danny Martinez to tell the audience about Valero.
Mr. Martinez stated that Valero Refining Company employs 350 people.
He explained that Valero is a refinery that produces gas. Their market is
mainly on the Eastern seaboard and they purchase locally within a two county
area.
Mayor Jones expressed the City's appreciation for the check.
* Mayor Pro Tem Best arrived at the Council meeting at 2:13 p.m.
Mayor Jones announced the bid opening on the Sliplining of Oso Trunk "B"
and Nile Drive Sanitary Sewers project.
Mr. James K. Lontos, Assistant City Manager, explained that this is a 1986
bond election project and involves the sliplining of a major trunk line from the
Oso Plant along Nile Drive to Padre Island Drive. He explained that he will be
reading Section A of the bid first, then Section B and then a total of A & B.
He mentioned that the total might not be a combination of A & B, but that it
might be less. He noted that an addendum was issued and that it should be
acknowledged in the bid. Mr. Lontos then proceeded reading the bids from the
following firms: Garney Companies, Inc.; CAT Contracting, Inc.; Channel
Construction Company; Insituform - Gulf South, Inc.; Jalco, Inc.; PM
Construction Company; Jerdon Construction Co., Inc. Mr. Lontos verified that
all companies submitting bids had also submitted the required security bond. He
stated that all of the companies except Jalco, Inc. had acknowledged receipt of
the addendum in their proposal.
** Council Member Mary Pat Slavik arrived at the Council Meeting at 2:20
p.m. during the bid opening.
Council Member Linda Strong asked if any of the bidders were local
companies and Mr. James K. Lontos informed her that apparently none of them are.
Mayor Pro Tem Best questioned if the companies were aware of the sliplining
problems that the City has had in the past, i.e. McArdle Road. Mr. Lontos
implied that the contractors should be well aware of the difficulties that the
City and the contractor had on McArdle Road, and that this project has been well
prepared for. He also stated that there are four different types of pipes that
the contractors can use.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 3
Mayor Jones expressed appreciation to the bidders for submitting bids on
the City project. (The bids were tabled for forty-eight hours, pursuant to the
requirements of the City charter, and referred to the Staff for tabulation and
recommendation.)
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Jones called for consideration of the Consent Motions 1 through 7.
1. M87-0093
Approval of specifications and authorization to receive bids for a supply
agreement for HFRS-S emulsion oil to be used by the Street Division in
their seal coat program. Funds were approved in the 1986-87 budget.
2. M87-0094
Approval of specifications and authorization to receive bids for three flow
meters to be used by the Wastewater Division. Funds were approved in the
1986-87 budget.
3. M87-0095
Approving plans and specifications and authorizing the receipt of bids on
April 7, 1987, for the reconstruction of Bimini, Samoa and Tahiti Streets
in the Tropic Isles Subdivision and Belair Drive from Waldron Road westerly
approximately 800 feet.
4. M87-0096
Approving plans and specifications and authorizing the receipt of bids on
April 7, 1987, for the rehabilitation of the sanitary sewer system in the
Saxet Heights area.
5. M87-0097
Accepting the Tourist Information Center project and authorizing final
payment of $21,812.60 to Coleman -Roth Construction, Inc.
6. WITHDRAWN (See Page 5)
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7. M87-0099
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 4
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to apply for continued
financial assistance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for
beach cleaning at Padre Island and to execute all necessary documents in
connection with the grant.
Mayor Jones inquired about Paragraph "1" of the memorandum for Item 6 where
it states under program administration "that the Commission shall be responsible
for advising the City Manager and the City Council on all aspects of the
administration of the Municipal Public Art Program. The Commission shall be
authorized to establish policies and guidelines to implement the program."
Mayor Jones stated he was under the impression all these years that the
City Council establishes the policies. He implied that if the Commission were
establishing a policy, it should be a policy that would be subject to approval
by the City Council.
City Manager Craig McDowell commented that the request by the Municipal
Arts Commission to delay the 3rd rdg. of the ordinance has been withdrawn. He
recommended that the Council adopt the ordinance that they have before them.
Mayor Jones stated that it should be the Council that sets the policy in
this regard. He commented that this is just being presented as a recommendation
of the Arts Committee and it is not being presented as a recommendation to the
Council at it be approved.
Mayor Jones then asked for comments from the audience on Item 6.
Connie Freeman, Chairman of the Visual Arts Committee, pointed out that in
the original guidelines that Jerry Allen wrote it states that the
responsibilities of the City Council should be appropriating funds for works of
art and final approval of contracts with selective artists, and that the
Municipal Art Commission's responsibility would be to have overall
responsibility for the project including policy and oversight. Ms. Freeman
explained that they are trying to take public art out of the political arena.
She stated that in the ordinance for the Corpus Christi Museum they have some
autonomy and the Library Board also has some autonomy on the selection of the
books which go into the public libraries. She commented she didn't think it was
out of line for the Municipal Arts Commission to have autonomy on the panel
selection which will choose the artists and the art work. She stated that the
City Council does have the final say in that they can assign the contract or
not.
Council Member Linda Strong commented that the City Council should not be
the body that decides on each work of art and what the medium is going to be.
She stated that this is the reason for the ordinance and why the Municipal Arts
Commission is involved. . She noted that a panel would be in charge of selecting
the art. Their recommendation on each piece will come to the City Council who
will make the final decision.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 5
Mayor Jones stated that the Commission is spending public money to do that
and that eventually becomes a responsibility of the City Council.
Council Member Strong stated that Mr. Pickering's first recommendation was
to withdraw this from today's agenda and put it off until the 24th of March, but
it is the Staff's opinion that withdrawing it might delay it longer than that.
She asked if it was possible to approve the ordinance today, as read, with the
understanding that the policies and guidelines will be discussed to see if an
amendment needs to be made.
City Manager Craig McDowell stated that the Council could adopt the
ordinance and and amend it later.
Council Member Mary Pat Slavik stated that she preferred not to amend it
prior to the third reading.
City Manager McDowell stated that the ordinance was prepared by the staff,
it does not contain the guidelines that Ms. Freeman is referring to but states
that the Arts Commission will make recommendations to the Council.
Council Member Strong suggested that the Council adopt the arts ordinance
as it stands, and that the Staff work with the Municipal Arts Commission on a
recommendation that they both can support. She then made a motion to withdraw
Item 6 from the agenda. The motion was seconded by Council Member Berlanga and
passed unanimously.
Council Member Frank Mendez questioned Item 4 regarding approving the plans
and specifications for the rehabilitation of the sanitary sewer system in the
Saxet Heights area. He stated that the construction costs are $375,000 and that
there is only $200,000 available for this project.
Assistant City Manager Lontos stated that he is recommending that this
project be completed in one phase.
In answer to Mayor Pro Tem Best's question regarding streets, curbs and
gutters, Mr. Lontos explained that the streets are going to be repaired.
Mayor Jones then questioned Item No. 7 regarding the grant application for
beach cleaning. He asked about the season we have lifeguards on duty.
Assistant City Manager Bill Hennings explained that we have lifeguards from
Memorial Day to Labor Day. He commented that this particular item is just a
request for $4,650 from the state.
A motion was made by Council Member Mendez that Consent Motions 1 through
7, with Motion No. 6 being withdrawn, be approved; seconded by Council Member
Strong; and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 6
Mayor Jones then called for consideration of the Consent Ordinances on
Items 8 through 16.
Mayor Jones inquired about Section 3 of the resolution supporting tort
reform, "That the 70th Texas Legislature enact legislation that will lower the
cost of insurance premiums."
City Attorney Hal George explained that if Section 2 is accomplished by the
Legislature, he hopes the end result will be Section 3. He stated that it will
lower the cost of insurance premiums not only for cities but all entities that
are involved. He stated that there are two competing interests and the Council
wanted a balance type resolution. He stated cities are caught in the middle.
He stated cities operate not only as a government agency but also what is known
as a proprietary agency. He stated that the whole idea is to bring those areas
into the same area of governmental function of a city.
Mayor Jones then called for comments from the audience on the Ordinances.
Mr. Bill Darby, 626 John Lee, commented on Item No. 8 regarding the tort
reform resolution. He passed out copies of information and expressed concern
that every person should have due course of law. He requested that the
resolution be delayed until the Council has read his article. Further
discussion followed, and Council Member Mendez explained that the proposed
resolution pertains only to municipalities, not the problems Mr. Darby is
addressing.
Council Member Mendez made a motion that Item 8 on tort reform be postponed
for one week so the Council could have time to look at the material left by Mr.
Darby. The motion was seconded by Council Member Slavik and the remaining
Council Members voted against it. The motion failed.
There were no further comments on the consent ordinances.
City Secretary Armando Chapa polled the Council for their votes; and the
following ordinances were passed.
8. RESOLUTION NO. 19659
SUPPORTING TORT REFORM AND LOWER INSURANCE PREMIUM COST; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Resolution passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, McComb, Pruet, and Strong voting,
"Aye," and Guerrero, Mendez, and Slavik voting, "No."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 7
9. ORDINANCE NO. 19660
APPROPRIATING $56,000 FROM THE MAINTENANCE SERVICES FUND TO THE CAPITAL
OUTLAY ACTIVITY FOR THE PURCHASE OF SIX REPLACEMENT VEHICLES IN THE VEHICLE
LEASE PROGRAM; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Resolution passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
10. ORDINANCE N0. 19661
APPROPRIATING $95,969.36 TO SUPPLEMENT $146,254.93 REMAINING FROM EXISTING
CONTINGENCY APPROPRIATIONS TO VARIOUS PROJECTS AS SHOWN ON EXHIBIT "A" TO
REIMBURSE THE GENERAL FUND FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Resolution passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
11. ORDINANCE NO. 19662
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF
HIGHWAYS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR THE CITY'S SHARE OF CONSTRUCTION
COSTS FOR TWO BOX CULVERTS LOCATED ON FM 2292 BETWEEN HIGHWAY 44 AND
LEOPARD; APPROPRIATING $10,837; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspensed and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
12. ORDINANCE NO. 19663
AMENDING CHAPTER. 2, ADMINISTRATION, OF THE CITY CODE, BY CREATING A NEW
SECTION 2-109, MUNICIPAL PUBLIC ART PROGRAM, WHICH AUTHORIZES THE
ALLOCATION OF CERTAIN FUNDS FOR ART IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC WORKS,
PROVIDES FOR REVIEW OF SUITABLE CAPITAL PROJECTS AND FOR AN ARTIST
SELECTION PROCESS, AND ESTABLISHES A METHOD FOR CALCULATING ART
APPROPRIATIONS FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS: PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE: PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION.
The Ordinance was passed on its Third Reading by the following vote:
Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 8
13. ORDINANCE NO. 19664
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI AND CORPUS CHRISTI LAND VENTURE ASSOCIATES FOR
THE ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 20,500 SQUARE FEET OF LAND BEING A PORTION
OF LOTS 26 AND 27, SECTION 6, FLOUR BLUFF ENCINAL FARM AND GARDEN TRACTS,
NUECES COUNTY, TEXAS: FINDING ALL OF SAID LAND TO LIE ENTIRELY WITHIN THE
EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION OF THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS,
ADJOINING, CONTIGUOUS, AND ADJACENT THERETO: PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY.
The Ordinance was passed on its Third Reading by the following vote:
Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
14. ORDINANCE NO. 19665
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A CONTRACT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI AND CORPUS CHRISTI DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION FOR
THE ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 3.37 ACRES OF LAND BEING A PORTION OUT OF
LOTS 17 AND 18, SECTION 21, FLOUR BLUFF AND ENCINAL FARM AND GARDEN TRACTS,
NUECES COUNTY, TEXAS; FINDING ALL OF SAID LAND TO LIE ENTIRELY WITHIN THE
EXTRATERRITORIAL JURISDICTION OF THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS,
ADJOINING, CONTIGUOUS, AND ADJACENT THERETO; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY.
The Ordinance was passed on its Third Reading by the following vote:
Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
15. ORDINANCE NO. 19666
ANNEXING A 20,500 SQUARE -FOOT TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOTS 26 AND 27, SECTION
6, FLOUR BLUFF ENCINAL FARM AND GARDEN TRACTS, OWNED BY CORPUS CHRISTI LAND
VENTURE ASSOCIATES; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
16. ORDINANCE NO. 19667
ANNEXING A 3.37 ACRE TRACT OF LAND OUT OF LOTS 11 AND 18, SECTION 21, FLOUR
BLUFF AND ENCINAL FARM AND GARDEN TRACTS, OWNED BY CORPUS CHRISTI
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rules was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Jones, Best, Berlanga, Guerrero, McComb, Mendez, Pruet,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 9
Mayor Jones then referred to Item 17 authorizing the expenditure of
$750,000 allocated in the 1986 Bond Program for improvements to Whitecap
Boulevard to be utilized to participate with Lake Padre, Ltd. for construction
of Whitecap Boulevard.
City Manager McDowell stated that in the Bond Program there was $750,000
approved to reconstruct Whitecap Boulevard. During that process and as a result
of a plat being filed with the Planning Commission for processing, the Lake
Padre Development Corporation is suggesting an alternate route. The Staff has
reviewed this and recommends that the Council approve Alternate 1/2 which is the
construction of Whitecap Boulevard in the new alignment as a 62 -foot wide
street, within 120 feet of right-of-way, with curb, gutter and sidewalk.
Estimated cost - $875,250; City's participation would be $750,000.
Assistant City Manager Lontos showed slides of the alignments regarding
Whitecap Boulevard. He stated that the portion which was in the Bond Program
was Park Rd. 22 and that it provided $750,000 for the reconstruction of the
street. At the public hearing it was recommended to change the location of the
street so that it would provide direct access to the beach. He stated that if
the City of Corpus proceeds in constructing Whitecap Boulevard at the present
location it would spend all and more of the money that was voted in the 1986
Bond Program. He implied that by changing the location of Whitecap Boulevard,
it would be in the City's best interest to put the road in a new location to
provide for direct access to the beach. He recommended that the City put in
$750,000 towards the project and the developer put up the difference and that
assessments be levied on the abutting property owners.
Council Member Strong indicated that the new road would be a major plus as
far as traffic circulation is concerned. She then made a motion to approve Item
No. 17; seconded by Council Member Guerrero.
Mayor Jones then called for comments from the audience on Item No. 17.
Elizabeth Walker, 13969 Dos Marinas, expressed appreciation to the City
Council for taking positive action on Whitecap Boulevard. She observed a new
awareness, sensitivity and action on the part of the City Council. She publicly
acknowledged appreciation to Linda Strong, Bill Pruet, Craig McDowell, Victor
Medina, Juan Garza and Tom Utter.
The motion passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
City Manager McDowell advised the Council that his Staff has been observing
the economic situation very closely and implied that the assessment for next
year may be down substantially and they foresee a downturn in the sales tax. He
commented that his Staff will be reviewing the expenditure among the departments
and suggested belt tightening in order that we finish this fiscal year in a
positive position.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 10
Mayor Jones called for petitions or information from the public on items
not listed on the agenda.
Mr. Sam Granato, 1810 Kentucky Derby, commented on and agreed with certain
expenditures on City projects but had difficulty in accepting some of the
problems the Police Department, where he is employed, is experiencing. He
stated that he understood that the department is $500,000 to $700,000 short in
the budget. He wanted to know why these expenditures are not being addressed by
the Council and if the Council was aware of this. He expressed concern among
the police employees that there were going to be cutbacks, a shortage in police
personnel, equipment and various other items. He wanted the Council to look
into these matters and advise the Community.
Mayor Jones suggested that he address a letter to the Council and the
Council would respond in writing.
There being no further business to come before the Council, a motion was
made by Council Member Strong, seconded by Council Member McComb, and passed
unanimously that the meeting be recessed at 3:47 p.m. until the public hearing
that evening.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Luther Jones reconvened the regular Council Meeting at 6:48 p.m. and
introduced the Council Members and Staff. He stated that the subject of the
Public Hearing was to consider amendments to the drainage and transportation
plans for the Blanche Moore property which is located on South Padre Island
Drive and Williams Drive and extends from South Staples Street to Everhart Road.
Mayor Jones explained the advantages of developing the tract which will
generate a large increase to the tax roll, provide 600 permanent jobs, and
estimated annual sales of $68 million in the shopping center.
Mayor Jones also noted that according the Mrs. Blanche Moore's will, 8
percent of the profit from the tract will be allocated to support children in
Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend area.
He continued by stating that the issue to be considered is which
alternative would be the most advantageous to the largest number of people
without violating the rights of citizens. He stated that he preferred
alternative "A" for the extension of Corona Street to Williams Drive along and
behind the Board of Realtors' property and then using Williams as a 48 -foot wide
street to provide circulation and access. He noted that according to this plan,
Williams Drive between Staples Street and Everhart Road would become a collector
street similar to Staples Street. Mayor Jones explained the plan by stating
that the advantages of this plan would be to encourage the development of the
tract, generate more money and subsequently increase the tax base on the
property, and provide a street 40 feet wide with two lanes in each direction and
terminate Corona Drive at Williams Street at this time. Re then called for
comments from the public.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 11
Mrs. Sandy E. Lucio, 5106 Williams Drive, stated that she is the
Chairperson of Gardendale Neighborhood Association and was speaking on behalf of
that group. She stated that their group endorses plan "B" as recommended by the
Planning Commission and which would reduce Williams Drive from Everhart Road to
Burton Lane to a 28 -foot wide street so as to preserve the residential character
of the area and would retain Betty Jean Street as a dedicated collector to
South Padre Island Drive with Corona Drive to intersect Williams Drive at a
point close to Burton Lane. Mrs. Lucio stated that they are of the opinion that
plan "B" would eliminate safety hazards for their children; it would relieve
traffic congestion and preserve the neighborhood atmosphere. She reiterated
that they object to a collector street running adjacent to their homes.
Mrs. Marilyn Sansom, 4429 Hamlin Street, representing her father who lives
at 4834 Williams Drive, stated that he is very content in this quiet residential
subdivision, but this peaceful atmosphere was changed in January when they
learned that the City Council planed to extend Corona down to Williams Drive and
that plan would destroy her father's home. She expressed concern that this City
Council does not listen to the people and this is a prime example of that
impression. She stated that if Corona Drive needs to be extended, it should go
through the Blanche Moore tract. She too pointed out that Williams Drive was
designed to be a residential street, not a major collector street.
Mrs. Sansom continued by stating that while they are not opposed to
development of the Blanche Moore tract, they are of the opinion that many
problems would exist in a development that would include a large Target store, a
restaurant and many other businesses that are probably not needed. She stated
that she endorses plan "B" except that the curve should be removed so that none
of the homes will be destroyed. She also urged that a decision be made tonight
so that the people in the area would know what to expect.
Also speaking in favor of plan "B" was Mr. Fernando J. Cyr, 5129 Williams
Drive, who also objected to widening Williams Drive to become a collector street
rather than extending Corona through the Blanche Moore tract.
Mrs. Beverly Ware, 4838 Williams Drive, also objected to the widening of
Williams Drive to a four -lane street, stated that she was in favor of developing
the Blanche Moore tract, but expressed the opinion that the street should be
extended through that tract as shown on the Master Transportation Plan. She
then presented a petition contained 264 signatures of Gardendale residents
expressing opposition to the widening of Williams Drive and expressing support
of plan "B".
Other residents speaking in favor of plan "B" were Mr. William
Hollingsworth, 5422 Bonner Drive; Mr. Dick Gibson, 5125 Williams Drive; Mr. Tony
Tomison, 4909 Curtis Clark Road; Mr. J. J. Waid, 5338 Williams Drive; and Mrs.
Dorothy Baker, 5321 Curtis Clark.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 12
Mayor Jones interrupted the comments by members of the audience and asked
Assistant City Manager Lontos to explain how many homes will be closed in each
plan.
Mr. Lontos explained that plan "A" would have an impact on six lots in
addition to those two owned by the Board of Realtors, and plan "B" will have
impact on five lots and part of one other lot.
Mayor Pro Tem Best noted that a number of people had mentioned extending a
street through the school parking lot which would not damage any homes, and Mr.
Lontos explained that that plan would have a great deal of impact on the
developers.
Mrs. Jan Patton, 5250 Williams Drive, President of the Corpus Christi Board
of Realtors, stated that the Board's property would be adversely affected by the
Staff's proposed plan. She agreed with all of the speakers who had indicated
their preference for plan "B" and explained that when they had started talking
about this development with the City Council and the Planning Commission, they
encouraged that a compromise be worked out. She noted that alternative "B" as
proposed by the Planning Commission emerged as a wise compromise to alleviate
traffic problems and still maintain the integrity of the Williams Drive
neighborhood. She urged that plan "B" be implemented even though part of the
Board's property would be reduced.
Mrs. Patton continued by stating that in the interest of good traffic flow
for the future, they wanted the tract developed but she felt that wise decisions
should be made about the traffic that will be generated. She assured the
Council that the Board of Realtors is willing to go forward with giving up some
of their property in order to have plan "B" developed because they felt that it
would be in the best interest of the residents of Gardendale.
Ms. Olga Flores, 5322 Williams Drive, stated that she had lived there for
twenty-six years but she is willing to go along with changes.
Mr. Sam Handy, 5117 Williams Drive, and Mrs. Carmen Flores, 5029 Curtis
Clark Drive, both agreed that plan "3" should be adopted.
Mr. Ned Holmes, 5 Post Oak Park, Houston, Texas, stated that he is Chairman
of Parkway Investments, the developer. He stated that he is sure that many of
the citizens are concerned about this development and the traffic that will be
generated in this subdivision but assured the members of the audience that they
have had a great deal of experience in developing commercial areas in other
cities in the state. He stated that they do not feel it is beneficial to the
development for it to be oriented to the Gardendale subdivision and they want to
discourage cut -through traffic. He assured them that the orientation of the
development would be towards South Padre Island Drive and most of the traffic
will be generated there. He stated that a wall will be constructed at the back
of the development next to the residential neighborhood. He also stated that
their proposal would make Betty Jean and one other street private
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 13
streets which they will control and which will keep traffic from exiting into
the neighborhood. He assured the Board of Realtors that they did not want to
purchase any of their property because they have more than enough property on
the Blanche Moore tract. He also noted that a delay in a decision would be
detrimental to the developer and urged that the Council make a decision tonight.
He assured the Council that they will attempt to create a first-class
development which will increase the values in the area. He also stated that
their developments control landscaping, architecture, setbacks, etc. and he
feels that the entire City will be proud of this shopping area. He stated that
they also would like to propose dead -ending Corona and Williams and although
they initially supported alternative "A", they would be happy to compromise with
a plan that would dead-end Williams and Corona at Everhart.
Others speaking in favor of plan "B" were Mr. Mario Colmenero, 5405
Williams Drive, Mr. Noe Gonzalez, representing his mother; and Mrs. Jamie
Dickson, 5323 Curtis Clark.
*Council Member Mary Pat Slavik departed the meeting at 7:53 p.m.
The next speaker, Mr. Sam W. Main, 922 Carmel Parkway, stated that he is
here speaking as an individual. He explained that he is in the real estate
business and he is certainly in favor of development of the Moore tract, but the
development of this site has been handled differently from any other development
of any tract in the City.
Mr. Main provided examples of what he meant by stating that (1) A decision
has evidently been made that the City will provide right-of-way for development
by private developer; (2) The developer is asking that streets, including Betty
Jean Street be designated as private streets over which they will have complete
control; and he questioned if there would always be an entity to take care of
those private streets. He pointed out that the City cannot enforce speed limits
on private streets. Mr. Main also pointed out that the Moore property is the
most valuable land in south Texas, and yet the public hearings conducted on this
subject keep bringing out expressions to the effect that the developers cannot
use their land to dedicate streets whereas other developers always have to do
that. He expressed the opinion that if these developers cannot afford to
properly develop this land and dedicate streets in the usual way, it should be
delayed.
Others speaking in favor of plan "B" were Mr. Terry Tober, 4926 Bonner
Drive, and Mrs. Carolyn Flores, 5029 Curtis Clark Drive. Taking the opposite
viewpoint was Mrs. Virginia Smith, 4534 O'Casey Street, who stated that she owns
property on Williams and Bonner Streets. She stated that she does not want a
street constructed behind that property and she was of the opinion that Williams
Drive should be widened.
Mr. Joe Adame, realtor, 1818 Graham Road, stated that he has been involved
in commercial development in Corpus Christi for a number of years, particularly
in this neighborhood. He pointed out that when the development first began in
the area, Corona was not even a planned street, but as activity increased,
Corona was extended. He suggested that Corona Drive be left as it is as well as
Williams Drive. He pointed out that if it is left alone, the value of the
property on Williams Drive will increase as the need arises.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 14
Mr. David McCaig, stated that he owns property at 5502 Williams Drive and
that he agreed with Mayor Jones 100 percent. He expressed the opinion that
there's no reason to continue Corona Drive across Everhart; Williams Drive
should be developed as the bond issue described it with the addition of stop
signs on Betty Jean and Nelson; and stated that he agreed with the residents on
each end of Williams Drive whose houses are in jeopardy. He suggested that
Williams Drive just be developed as planned and let the developer design streets
within the tract as private streets.
Ms. Sherry Knipstein, 5302 Betty Jean, stated that she had lived there
since 1970; she is in favor of growth; and she is therefore in favor of Williams
Drive being a 48 -foot wide paved street because she understands that a great
deal of her property will be taken but she does not object to that because the
neighborhood has deteriorated.
The next speaker was Mr. Wayne A. Lundquist, 5042 Greenbrlar, who informed
the Council that four weeks ago his firm was retained by the developer of the
Moore tract to conduct a survey of the property owners on Williams Drive. He
stated that he had Suzanne Scott conduct the survey and provided copies of the
result of that survey with maps showing the property which indicated that 33.5
percent of the residents were in favor of option 1 of plan "A" and 33.5 percent
were in favor of option 2 of plan "A." He stated that only 4 percent were in
favor of option 3 of plan "B" and 4 percent were in favor of option 5 of plan
"B". He described option 1 as being the plan to extend Corona and widen
Williams to 48 -foot paving; option 2, extend Corona and widen Williams to
40 -foot paving; option 3, extend Corona along rear property line with 48 -foot
paving and stated that option 4 which was favored by 8 percent of the property
owners was not to extend Corona at all.
Mr. Jesse Flores, 5213 Bonner Drive, expressed discontent that all of the
discussion concerned Williams Drive. He inquired as to what would happen with
the rest of the neighborhood because it is not fair for them to continue to wait
for their streets to be improved until a decision has been made on Williams
Drive.
Mr. Lontos explained that all of Gardendale was included in the voluntary
paving program in the 1986 bond program; plans are being prepared; Staff will be
submitting plans for all of the street improvements in the very near future.
Mr. Lontos then explained the anticipated cost to the property owners for the
reconstruction of the street.
Mr. Foster Edwards, 5250 Everhart, stated that he is Vice President of the
Board of Realtors. Be agreed with Mayor Jones that this development is
essential, but he wanted to remind the Council that whether plan "A" or plan "B"
or some other plan is adopted, it makes no difference because taxes will be
generated by the developers and the children of Texas will still benefit from
it. He explained that the Board of Realtors had endorsed plan "8" because they
felt that this was the best plan for everyone concerned. He referred to the
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 15
suggestion to dead-end Corona at Everhart and pointed out that a traffic study
conducted by Staff indicated that this was a very bad idea because it would
create unusually heavy traffic at that intersection. He stated that they think
that dead -ending Corona would be very unsatisfactory and he hoped that the
Council would consider the traffic study that had been made on this subject.
Mr. Edwards continued by agreeing that it was very shrewd for the
developers to commission a study of the neighborhood to tell the City Council
what the residents think. He reminded the Council that the representative of
the developer had already said that they had more land than they were
comfortable with, and if that is true, they should not object to giving up
60 feet on the back side for a street.
Mr. Mateo Morales, 5230 Williams Drive, pointed out that they have been
debating this issue for some time; the people in the neighborhood prefer plan
"B"; the developer knows what he wants; and he would now like to know what the
City wants.
Mrs. Irma Sanchez, 4910 Williams Drive referred to the manner in which the
survey was conducted and reported that she was asked if she wanted to earn more
money by approving plan "A" and she stated that she informed the lady conducting
the survey that she was in favor of plan "B." She expressed the opinion that
the questions on the survey were presented wrong to the residents.
Ms. Linda Benavides, 5217 Williams Drive, stated that she owns property
also at 4925 Williams Drive. She expressed the opinion that the survey
conducted by the developers shows what the people who own property really want.
She stated that she felt Corona should be extended at Everhart; she would agree
with dead -ending Corona and widening Williams, but she did not believe that this
would be good for the future. She reiterated that Corona should be extended at
the intersection of Everhart and Williams and she felt that plan "A" is the best
option.
Mr. Noe M. Gonzalez, 5405 Williams Drive, referred to
and questioned the credibility of that survey. He pointed
conducted the survey had already admitted to two mistakes
people who signed the survey were merely confused.
Mr. Taylor Davis, 5001 Williams Drive, stated that
Suzanne Scott for the survey and he willingly signed it
about what she told him.
the survey conducted
out that the lady who
and he felt that the
he was contacted by
and was not confused
Mrs. Grace E. Smith, 5309 Williams Drive, stated that she was one of the 33
percent who agreed to one option of plan "A." She stated that she signed that
because she was of the opinion that plan "A" was preferable because the value of
her property would increase with the development, and she felt that they would
benefit financially from this. She agreed that Williams Drive needs to be
widened and putting a street behind the residential property on Williams Drive
would be a mistake.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 16
Mayor Jones complimented all of the citizens for their eloquence in
presenting their case.
Council Member Guerrero stated that the possibility of dead -ending Corona
at Everhart had been mentioned. He inquired as to how that would benefit anyone
at all.
Assistant City Manager Lontos stated that a traffic study was conducted on
Corona and Everhart and the Staff felt that the extension of Corona across to
Williams is essential.
A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Guerrero and passed unanimously.
Mr. Lontos stated that if the Council desired, Mr. David Seiler, Director
of Traffic Engineering Department, could provide information on that aspect.
Mr. Seiler explained that they had conducted an analysis of the
intersection of Everhart and Corona to determine the best signalization that
would be required. He explained various types of signals that would be needed
and the survey also indicated that an offset intersection would not operate
effectively at all and would be very dangerous following the development of the
Blanche Moore tract. He stated further that offset intersections would force
the use of seven signalization instruments.
Council Member Guerrero inquired if stubbing out Corona at Everhart would
be advisable at all, and Mr. Seiler stated that it would be a mistake to
dead-end Corona.
Council Member Pruet inquired as to when Corona Drive was constructed, and
Mr. Lontos stated that it was constructed as a private street about ten years
ago; later because of the traffic, it was improved to City standards and
dedicated as a City street.
Mr. Pruet continued by stating that the Council had received information
that morning which referred to another traffic study by another firm that
indicated just the opposite of what Staff had stated.
Mr. Lontos stated that Staff has reviewed that traffic proposal, and Mr.
Tom Stewart, Director of Transportation, stated that they had examined it and
discussed it with the consultant and there were a number of proposals made by
that firm that Staff did not recommend.
In response to a question by Council Member Strong, Mr. Seiler explained
that traffic would have to exit from the development and obviously some of it
would exit onto Williams Drive and some of it would exit from the private
streets.
.,inutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 17
Further discussion followed, and Mr. Lontos noted that in plan "A" Betty
Jean Street would tie into Williams Drive as a private street.
Council Member Berlanga inquired about other streets that will be on the
Blanche Moore tract, and Mr. Lontos stated that there will be street connections
for Nelson Lane, Betty Jean Drive and Burton Lane.
Mayor Pro Tem Best asked Mr. Seiler about studies made with plan "B" and
specifically asked if plan "B" would handle the greatest amount of traffic, and
Mr. Seiler stated that it would because there would be two connections on
Staples Street and Everhart Road.
Mayor Pro Tem Best inquired if that would be the most efficient way of
handling all of the traffic, and Mr. Seiler stated that that is correct.
Mayor Pro Tem Best summarized the situation by stating that plan "B" would
provide better traffic control; the developer would lose some land; the Board of
Realtors would lose a little bit of land but were satisfied with that plan.
Mayor Pro Tem Best then made a motion that the Council accept plan "B".
The motion was seconded by Council Member Guerrero.
Council Member McComb asked for further explanation from Mr. Seiler which
was provided and pointed out that he was interested in the dead -ending of Corona
at Everhart. He stated that his primary concern was dislocating too many people
and he believed that construction of Corona was a mistake. He pointed out that
dead -ending it at Everhart would not be a problem because there are many T
intersections in Corpus Christi.
Council Member Pruet stated that he has problems with plan "A" because he
has met individually and collectively with many of the Gardendale owners in the
last few weeks; he thinks that it is important that they reach a decision as
soon as possible so that everyone will know what is going to happen; stated that
he has some problems with plan "B" and he has been told that stubbing out Corona
would be a mistake according to one traffic study, yet another traffic study
indicates that it would not present a problem. He expressed the opinion that
the minimum impact would be to stub Corona at Everhart, construct Williams Drive
as it was originally designed in the bond program, revise the Master
Transportation Plan and he felt that Staff should work with the Planning
Commission to design a master plan for the Gardendale area. He stated that he
will vote against plan "B."
Council Member Guerrero expressed the opinion that the Council is hiding
from the problem because the Planning Commission had recommended plan "B." He
stated that he would like to amend Mayor Pro Tem Best's motion to exclude the
homes that would be destroyed and adopt plan "B." Council Member Berlanga
seconded the amendment to the motion.
i4inutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 18
Mayor Jones inquired about the consequences if the homes are excluded from
being destroyed, and Mr. Lontos stated that the Staff recommended plan "A" but
it would be possible to extend the curve in the street and prevent taking some
of the homes.
Council Member Mendez stated that he would be in favor of dead -ending
Corona at Everhart. He pointed out that most of the entrances and exits into
the Blanche Moore tract would be from Padre Island Drive and he reiterated that
stubbing Corona at Everhart would help the developer, the real estate market and
would resolve the problems for the residents of Williams Drive.
Council Member Berlanga stated that he approves the modified plan "B"
because it would take care of most of the people.
Council Member Strong stated that she thought that the logical solution
would be to dead-end Corona at Everhart.
Council Member Guerrero stated that the Council is avoiding a decision in
delaying and he knew before he even came to the meeting that Corona was going to
be stubbed out. He pointed out that dead -ending Corona at Everhart is only
going to create more problems.
Mayor Jones called for the vote on the amendment to Dr. Best's motion and
it failed to pass by the following vote: Best, Berlanga, and Guerrero voting,
"Aye"; Jones, McComb, Mendez, Pruet and Strong voting, "No"; Slavik absent.
A motion was made by Council Member Mendez that Staff continue with the
plans to improve the Gardendale Streets; that Corona Drive be stubbed out at
Everhart Road; that Williams Drive be paved to a width of 40 feet; and that the
Master Transportation Plan be so amended. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Strong and passed by the following vote: Jones, McComb, Mendez, Pruet
and Strong voting, "Aye"; Berlanga and Guerrero voting, "No"; Best abstaining;
Slavik absent.
Mayor Jones then declared the hearing reopened in order to discuss the
Master Drainage Plan change.
Assistant City Manager Lontos stated that they had discussed the problems
in draining the tract because the Williams Drive drainage system is not large
enough. He explained that a storm system will be devised down Burton Lane to go
to the Mary Carroll drainage ditch which is planned to be widened. He explained
that this would improve the drainage in the entire area including Everhart Road
and the total cost would be over $1.2 million with the City cost to be $563,000
and the developer will pay the remainder.
Mayor Jones pointed out that the original consideration of this change to
the drainage plans was what had initiated the discussion of the amendment to the
Master Transportation Plan.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
March 10, 1987
Page 19
Mayor Jones called for comments from the audience on the change to the
Master Drainage Plan and there was no response.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Best that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Strong, and passed unanimously.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Best that the proposed amendment to the
drainage plan be approved, seconded by Council Member Strong, and passed
unanimously.
Mr. Lontos then addressed the question of Betty Jean Drive which goes
across the property and which the developers have requested be made a private
street. He stated that the Staff concurs with this if it is developed to City
standards and agrees that it could be designated as a private street.
A motion was made by Council Member Strong that Betty Jean be designated as
a private street, seconded by Council Member Pruet.
Council Member Berlanga inquired if this is a private street, how far it
would extend, and Mr. Lontos stated that it will start right at Williams or at
the property line of the Blanche Moore tract.
An unidentified lady in the audience inquired as to why the developer wants
Betty Jean to be a private street and the representative of the developer stated
that they want to install unusual, attractive landscaping around fountains.
The motion to make Betty Jean a private street passed unanimously.
There being no further business to come before the Council, a motion was
made by Mayor Pro Tem Best that the meeting be adjourned, seconded by Council
Member McComb, and passed unanimously at 9:50 p.m.
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 March
10, 1986, which were approved by the City Council on March 17, 1987.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the Z 7✓ ld day of 0
L ther J%/es, MAYOR
7
Armando Chapa, City Secret
City of Corpus Christi, Texas