HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/28/1987PRESENT:
Mayor Betty Turner
Mayor Pro Tem Clif Moss
Council Members:
David Berlanga, Sr.
Frank Mendez
Bill Pruet
Mary Rhodes
Mary Pat Slavik
Linda Strong
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JULY 28, 1987
9:00 a.m.
City Manager Craig McDowell
City Attorney Hal George
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Absent
Leo Guerrero
Mayor Betty Turner called the meeting to order in the Council Chamber of
City Hall.
The invocation was given by Reverend Michael Dunagan of the Parkdale
Baptist Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the
United States was led by Council Member Rhodes.
City Secretary 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 Mendez that Council Member Guerrero be
excused from the Council Meeting. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Strong and passed unanimously.
Mayor Pro Tem Moss requested an addition to Page 4 of the Minutes of the
Regular Council Meeting of July 21, 1987, to insert a suggestion he made
concerning the Regional Transit Authority. A motion was made by Council Member
Slavik that the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of July 21, 1987, with
the proper insertion, be approved as presented; seconded by Council Member
Strong and passed unanimously.
Mayor Turner acknowledged Mr. Nino Gutierrez of the Texas Highway
Department. Mr. Gutierrez gave a brief presentation on the Crosstown Expressway
Extension and displayed a rendering of the project. He expressed his
appreciation for being invited to the meeting and stated they are hoping for an
MICROFILMED
Minutes
Regular -Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 2
endorsement from the City Council. He announced that there will be a Public
Hearing on August 28th. He presented some background information on the
proposal and the justification for the projected route which will cost
approximately $62 million. He stated that they have made studies and explained
that the studies indicate the need to extend the Crosstown Expressway. He
stated that the project will be divided into different stages and that before
the Public Hearing, they have to make studies of alternates. Mr. Gutierrez then
introduced Mr. Bill Biner, District Design Engineer, and Mr. Dallas Comuzzie,
Engineer in charge of Operations in Nueces County.
Mr. Comuzzie referred to the map and explained the different stages of the
construction for the project.
In answer to a question from the Mayor in reference to the time schedule of
the project, Mr. Comuzzie stated it would be some time in 1989.
In answer to a question from Mayor Pro Tem Moss pertaining to the time of
the overall project, Mr. Gutierrez referred to the different colored areas on
the map and noted that the green area is a 4 -year plan, the red area is a 4 -year
plan and the purple area is in the back five years of the plan. He stated that
their goal initially is to put the frontage roads in and connect the bridge over
the Crosstown Expressway.
In answer to another question from Mr. Moss asking if they are two years
from starting the project, Mr. Gutierrez replied in the affirmative and stated
that after the public hearing they will proceed with the preparation of the
right-of-way map and that he hoped by the middle of next year, they will start
buying right-of-way.
In answer to a question from Council Member Pruet, Mr. Gutierrez replied
that the total figure is $45 million; the total figure he quoted earlier of $62
million was the preliminary estimate which now has been reduced; it would be $45
million for the green, red and purple areas of the map and between $14 to 15
million for the brown section on the map.
In answer to a question from the Mayor as to whether they are receiving
right-of-way donations and the possibility of a loop around the City and
acquiring the right-of-way for that, Mr. Gutierrez replied they have not yet
received donations and that they do not know the status of the property at this
point. He stated that plans will be ready in about 12 months. In regard to the
loop, they have not yet done anything about acquiring the right-of-way and
explained that it would be some time in the future.
In answer to a question from Council Member Slavik, Mr. Gutierrez stated
that it has two purposes, one that it would relieve some of the congestion; and
secondly, it will provide for the growth. He also stated that it will help the
intersection at Everhart and SPID.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 3
A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that a resolution be prepared
endorsing the route presented by the Texas Highway Department; the motion was
seconded by Council Member Mendez and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner opened the public hearing on the proposed Urban Development
Action Grant Project.
Assistant City Manager Utter stated that UDAGS are specific grants of money
from the Department of Housing and Urban Development for economic development
activities, and that there has to be a minimum leverage of $2i of private funds
generated for every dollar of UDAG funds. He stated that the City now has a
pocket of poverty eligibility in the Heritage Park area. He stated that the
City has solicited proposals for a new hotel beside the Convention Center with a
parking facility and is looking at the possibility of submitting a UDAG
application, and that they are working with Ms. Jane Macon of the firm of
Fulbright & Jaworski. He stated that the application has to be filed by July
31, 1987 and that there are several other cities applying.
Mr. Utter went over the elements of the UDAG application and stated that
they will be utilizing funds from the Economic Development Trust. He made
reference to material he presented to the Council regarding a chart of the money
to be invested in the Bayfront Science Area from all sources. He stated that
they hope to attract a major first-line hotel with national drawing power, and
noted that there is no guarantee that the City will get the grant. He then
introduced Ms. Jane Macon of Fulbright & Jaworski.
Ms. Macon stated that UDAG was founded in the late 1970's and it is a way
of creating public/private partnerships. She stated that public dollars are
leveraged against private dollars and that the City's leverage in this case
would be approximately $60 million. She also noted that a large portion of it
would be a luxury hotel. She stated that there are funds available for the
Texas area, and that we are at the top of the HUD category in terms of
qualifying for dollars to stimulate economic development. She also pointed out
that the application has to be filed by July 31st and that during the next three
months, HUD will review the applications. She stated that they will be working
with developers and lending institutions who are interested in working in this
area and that it would be at least 30 months to three years in the future.
Mayor Turner clarified that this would be a grant to the City, not a loan;
the money will be given to the City to be used for land acquisition; and the
City then can lease that land to a private developer and retain ownership of the
land.
Ms. Macon concurred and stated that it would be an unsubordinated ground
lease subject to negotiation, and that the money would go into the general fund.
iinut e s
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 4
In answer to some questions from Council Member Rhodes about the proposed
new hotel and the existing hotels in the area, Mr. Utter stated that the new
hotel would not have to buy the property; present occupancy rates are not good;
this particular hotel would be a first-line destination hotel that engages in a
lot of national advertising for this particular site and that it would be a
three year time period. He stated that he believed conditions in the City of
Corpus Christi will improve; this would not hurt the existing hotels; it will
not be completed for three more years; and he referred to the proposed
aggressive tourism promotion.
Council Member Strong noted that this is not an attempt to undermine the
existing hotels. She referred to the City's lack of a critical mass which has
caused a lot of concern and that it has to be created and does not happen over
night. She also mentioned it is not a new project but has been discussed
before.
Mayor Pro Tem Moss pointed out that this is just an application, and in
answer to a question from Mr. Moss, Mr. Utter replied that once the agreement
with a developer and with the Department of Housing and Urban Development is
signed, the City will be committed. Ms. Macon replied the City is not committed
until the application comes back with a contract attached, and then the Council
can review the contract.
Council Member Slavik stated that she did not think anyone objects to
economic development. She noted that there is a problem with major projects
that the City is undertaking in that the Staff does not contact the relevant
people that might be involved. She urged the Staff not to "blindside" people
and referred to the fact that the Hotel/Motel Association was not aware of the
project at all.
Council Member Mendez noted that other cities utilize UDAG funds and that
he would support this because it is something that should have been done a long
time ago.
Council Member Berlanga expressed concern about the impact on the existing
hotels and inquired if the hotel people were monitored and asked their opinions.
He also stated that the program is great, but it should not be done at the
expense of other people who have invested money. He also inquired if anything
other than a hotel could be constructed.
Mr. Utter replied that it only became clear last week that we would be
coming forward with the UDAG; Staff did make some contacts; but that the contact
with the President of the Hotel/Motel Association was not made because of his
absence from the City. Mr. Utter also stated it has to be a hotel. He noted
that there would have to be a feasibility analysis conducted before anything is
done.
1inutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 5
In answer to a question from Mr. Mendez, Mr. Utter stated that there was a
public hearing; notification was given in the paper; and that there were about
twenty people at the public hearing.
Mr. Nick Reyna, General Manager of the Sheraton Marina Hotel and President
of the Hotel/Motel Association, spoke in opposition to the project. He stated
that he was never contacted; he was out of town but in constant contact with the
hotel; the Hotel/Motel Association needs to be in a working partnership with the
City Council; they support economic development; there is no need for a hotel;
and that hotels are running under 50 percent occupancy. He stated that
conditions are not going to improve sufficiently in three years; it is illogical
to consider another hotel in this community; some existing hotels already do
marketing nationally and internationally; and that it would be a crime to bring
in another hotel when there are other hotels on the verge of bankruptcy and
foreclosure.
Mr. Reyna stated that they were concerned because the Hotel/Motel
Association was not given an opportunity to discuss this with the City Staff. He
noted that they appreciate the confidence that the Council showed in the tourism
industry by appropriating more funds. He also spoke of the handicap they have
because of the additional two percent hotel tax that was just passed. He
further stated that this project does not fill a viable need.
Mr. Bill Denzer, General Manager of the Mariott Hotel, spoke in opposition
to the project. He stated that he learned of this project Sunday morning when
he came into contact with Gary Bushell at a breakfast at the hotel. He stated
that back in the 1970's the occupancy rates and oil were up; we need to study
the facts; many hotels have changed ownership; and the occupancy rate is down.
He continued by stating that this is not the right time.
Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, stated that it is a bad idea to consider
applying for a UDAG grant and urged the Council to consider reducing the
hotel/motel tax.
Gary Bushell, President of the Corpus Christi Area Economic Development
Corporation, stated that it is important that the site be locked in. He stated
that he understood today's occupancy rate would not support a new hotel but
noted that it would be three years down the line. He stated that he met with
Mr. Bill O'Boyle of the Hershey Hotel, and that Mr. O'Boyle commented that if
Corpus Christi is going to become a convention center, it is going to have to
have a convention headquarters hotel adjacent to the center, and that it would
establish Corpus Christi as a convention center city, and we would get our share
of that business once that was established.
Council Member Strong stated that this Council has committed to
aggressively go after planned development in this community; to let the land sit
there and not be tied up for future development would be shortsighted and a real
shame; it is a positive step that they move forward; and she will support it.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 6
Council Member Slavik expressed concern regarding the existing businesses
and about the planning. She stated that a study had not been done in reference
to the three-year planning and inquired if there was any other development other
than a hotel. Mr. Utter replied there is nothing that they know of in terms of
a sizeable UDAG. He stated that in terms of planning, this particular site had
been designated by Council action for the last seven or eight years as a site
they wanted to try to work to produce a convention facility hotel; the occupancy
rate today is bad in the City and they recognize it; they feel in three years it
is going to be good; and that before a hotel can be built there, a prudent
lender will require a very thorough feasibility study.
Mr. Bill O'Boyle, General Manager of the Hershey Hotel, stated that the
Hotel/Motel Association as a whole was not contacted so they have not had a
chance to discuss the issue. He stated that it is an excellent project if it is
planned properly and that the Hershey looks at it differently from the other
hotels. He stated that the lesson to be learned for the future is to
communicate, and suggested a meeting to plan for a unified movement towards it.
Mayor Turner inquired if there is time for a meeting and Ms. Macon replied
that this is an evolving process and not an easy process; she regretted the time
frame and stated that Corpus Christi is just being put in the hopper and that
there will have to be refinements to the application.
Council Member Pruet stated that he will support the application today; it
is critical that the City Staff and Council keep the lines of communication
open; this is not a final step today; and that it is just an initial step. He
stated that he hoped that the Staff will begin the coordination process with the
other related and impacted agencies.
City Manager McDowell referred to the Public Hearing that was held
yesterday and that there were a number of community groups in support of the
project.
In answer to a question from Council Member Mendez regarding a sports
arena, Mr. Utter stated that a sports arena in itself would not be eligible for
UDAG funds to build; you have to have the leverage; and that private funds could
be used for that purpose.
Council Member Rhodes stated that she resented not having time to think
this thru; she resented people not being contacted; and she resented some
Council Members having more information than other Council Members. She stated
that she will support this today because it is just the application for the
grant and that there will be time to iron out the details. She further stated
that she would like to see the results of the feasibility study.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Moss to close the Public Hearing;
seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 7
Mayor Turner called for consideration of the recommendation of the Mayor's
Task Force on Downtown Revitalization Organization.
Council Member Berlanga stated that the Task Force has been working very
hard and meeting often. He personally commended the group for their untiring
efforts in trying to formulate a plan for the downtown area. He then introduced
all the members of the task force.
Mr. Charles Thomasson, a member of the Mayor's Task Force, presented
recommendations on structuring the revitalization of downtown. He stated that
they hoped to call it "The Heart of Corpus Christi" and he presented the Council
with a signed copy of the proposed contract. Mr. Thomasson presented background
information on how the Task Force was formed and stated that they surveyed
things that had worked in other towns and that their recommendations are in
accordance with what has worked elsewhere. He stated that their consensus is
that downtown Corpus Christi will never be a major shopping area again; they
concluded that when you start an effort like this, you have to give it time to
succeed; and that it has to have staying power. He stated that they are
starting with a three-year program funded specifically to give the organization
results.
Mr. Thomasson stated that their recommendations include a joint
public/private corporation that would be jointly funded and controlled with the
mayor to appoint a very broad-based organization. He continued by stating that
their recommendation would be a commitment by the City for $75,000 a year for
three years to give this a chance to work, and that it will be matched by the
private sector. They requested a very broad-based group to be appointed and a
contract that is modeled on the Area Economic Development contract. He
requested that the Council approve his recommendations, the contract and the
funding that is called for.
Council Member Rhodes inquired about who will decide who the members are in
the corporation, and Mr. Thomasson replied that the directors initially would be
appointed by the Mayor from all over the community, and that the board, once
established, would be self-perpetuating. He stated that in addition, they have
made specific recommendations that require putting a mandate to the organization
as it continues to operate, that they elect representatives of twenty specific
organizations in the community. He stated that the proposal is that the
executive committee would include a Council Member from the district and
representatives specifically appointed by the Mayor to assure continued public
control.
Mrs. Rhodes stated that sometimes there are problems when we put public
money into these different organizations if we don't have continuing control
over who the people are who are ruling on the money; also, it would be more fair
if the Council Members had more input on all the committees appointed, rather
than strictly appointments from the Mayor.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 8
Mr. Thomasson stated that in the details of their specific proposal, the
mayoral appointments would be made after consultation with the Council.
Council Member Berlanga stated that it is the intention of the group that
the Mayor and City Council would have control over this organization.
Mrs. Rhodes inquired about what was meant by self-perpetuating, and Mr.
Thomasson replied that in the future as an organizational matter, the people
that are initially appointed would select their successors following the same
guidelines of assuring representatives from the various organizations.
Mrs. Rhodes expressed concern over that and stated that if the City is
going to allocate $75,000 of public money into it, we ought to have a
partnership rather than they appoint themselves.
Council Member Mendez stated that one of the answers would be that the
Council allow the committee to recommend people as replacements to the Mayor
with the approval of the Council.
Mr. Berlanga stated that in judging from the response that they have had
from the private sector, he did not think there will be a need for any public
money after three years because the response had been tremendous.
Mrs. Rhodes inquired if the City is automatically locked into $75,000 for
three years, and Mr. Berlanga replied that is the only way there is to attract
the private industry to put in the matching funds, and Mr. McDowell replied it
is a three-year contract with the first year coming from the Economic
Development Trust Fund and the second and third years would be provided out of
City funds. He stated that once a commitment is made, the City must provide the
funding.
Council Member Slavik stated that she would like to stress two sections of
the proposed agreement, one being that the Board of Directors have broad-based
representation as promised and secondly, that the City's financial contribution
would be minimal and that the major portion of the funding would come from the
private sector so that eventually the City could phase out of the commitment.
Mr. Thomasson concurred with Mrs. Slavik's recommendations, and noted that
they already have a substantial portion of the money committed from the private
sector.
Council Member Strong recommended that the Council encourage the City
Manager to direct the Planning Staff to move forward immediately; the planning
is essential; and that we not create more of a division in the City than is
already there. She referred to a section of the booklet that was presented to
the Council where it makes reference to a full-time employee that is going to
direct the development of the revitalization, and stated that it should be
someone with a background in urban planning and redevelopment. She stated that
she will support this and that the Council must remain positive and aggressive.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 9
Mr. Berlanga concurred with Mrs. Strong and stated that the revitalization
will have an impact on the entire City; it would help the entire City; and that
he thinks it is a marvelous investment.
Council Member Pruet stated that he thought it proper that while the City
and private sector support this, that there are other governmental entities that
need to be enrolled in the process, such as the County, RTA and the Port and
that they should be given the opportunity to participate in the funding. He
also stated that he hoped we would be looking quickly to the other three
peripheral areas, such as from IH37 to the ship channel.
Mrs. Rhodes inquired how they are going to elect the executive committee,
and Mr. Thomasson replied after the first year the initial executive committee
will be a part of the initial appointment which will include designating members
of the executive committee and after that the larger group will pick the
executive committee.
Mr. J. E. O.Brien stated that downtown revitalization is a very noble
pursuit but he thought that problem was solved when the Reinvestment Zone was
formed. He stated that he had nothing against this particular project but
questioned the concept of public/private ventures using tax dollars to fund
these private corporations.
Mr. Clay Moore stated that there are businesses in the downtown area that
have been successful and that he could use competition. He also noted that he
would cooperate in any way possible.
Mayor Turner expressed appreciation to the entire Task Force for their time
and effort.
City Secretary Chapa pointed out for the record that the Council is voting
on the appropriation of $50,000 to be used in conjunction with the $25,000 that
was appropriated on May 12, 1987.
Mrs. Slavik inquired where the money was coming from, and Mr. McDowell
replied from the $100,000 set aside earlier from the Economic Development Trust
Fund.
Council Member Mendez stated that in response to Council Member Rhodes'
concern about the appointment process, the Mayor and the Council should make the
initial apointments. Thereafter, the Board will make recommendations or
nominations that will be confirmed by the Mayor and Council. The Council
concurred.
Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes; and the following Resolution
was passed:
RESOLUTION NO. 19867
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH HEART OF CORPUS CHRISTI, INC.
FOR SERVICES ASSISTING THE CITY IN REVITALIZING THE DOWNTOWN/UPTOWN AREA;
APPROPRIATING $50,000.
`linutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 10
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik, and Strong voting, "Aye"; Guerrero
absent.
The Council went into closed session at 11:30 a.m. to discuss litigation
under the authority of Article 6252-17 of V.A.C.S.
The Council reconvened the meeting and made a motion that the Airport
Advisory Board consider naming the airport terminal after Mr. Hayden Head. The
motion passed unanimously.
The Council recessed for lunch at 12:30 p.m.
Mayor Turner reconvened the Regular Council Meeting at 2:03 p.m. and
announced the bid opening on the Surge relief facility at Caldwell Street Water
Reservoir & Pumping Station.
Mr. James K. Lontos, Assistant City Manager, opened the bids on the project
from the following firms: Stefek Construction Co.; Tennessee Pipeline
Construction Co.; and H & S Construction Company. Mr. Lontos verifed that all
contractors had submitted the required bid security check or bond.
Mayor Turner announced the bid opening on the Renovation of an existing
house for use as Los Encinos Community Center.
Mr. Lontos opened the bids on the project from the following firms: Harbor
Construction Co.; Netek Construction Co.; and Progressive Structures, Inc. Mr.
Lontos stated that all of the contractors had submitted a bid security bond and
acknowledged receipt of the addenda.
Mayor Turner announced the bid opening on the Oso Recreation Center
Expansion & H.E.B. Tennis Center improvements.
Mr. Lontos opened bids on the project from the following firms: B. E.
Beecroft Company Inc.; Bracco Construction Co. Inc. Cavazos General Contractors;
and Mehne Construction, Inc. All companies submitted the required bid security
bond.
Mayor Turner expressed appreciation to the contractors submitting bids.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner then introduced Mr. Ted Schoenberg, Chairman of the Yokuska
Sister City Committee, who asked each of the four exchange students from
Yokuska, Japan to introduce themselves. One of the students spoke on behalf of
all of them and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to be in Corpus
Christi. Mr. Schoenberg then introduced the host families for the Japanese
students and stated that this is the twenty-first year that Corpus Christi and
Yokuska have participated in the student exchange program.
Mr. Johnny Alaniz and Mr. Joe Morales, Co -Chairmen of the Vera Cruz,
Mexico, Sister City Committee, asked the exchange students from Vera Cruz to
introduce themselves, following which Mr. Joe Morales introduced the host
families.
4inutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 11
Mr. Alaniz then introduced Mr. Guillermo Lucia, a Council Member of the
City of Vera Cruz, Mexico, who brought greetings from the Mayor of Vera Cruz and
presented a plaque to Mayor Turner and to Council Member David Berlanga who had
been instrumental in establishing the relationship with Vera Cruz and working
with the two Sister City Committees.
One of the students from Vera Cruz then expressed appreciation for the
entire group and invited the City Council to visit Vera Cruz.
Mayor Turner then administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Joe A. McComb, a
new appointtee to the Private Industry Council.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Consent Motions, Items 1 through
10a, noting that the Council had requested that Items 5, 7 and 8 be withheld
temporarily for further discussion.
1. M87-0270
Approving the purchase of a cutaway van with an aluminum body from Vista
Chevrolet for the amount of $17,069, based on low bid. The van will be
used by Senior Community Services to deliver meals. Funds were approved in
the 1986-87 budget.
2. M87-0271
Approving the purchase of a transfer prover based on the low bid of $20,160
from Dresser Industries. This item will be used by the Gas Division, and
funds were approved in the 1986-87 budget.
3. M87-0272
Approving the purchase of an ion chromatograph based on low bid meeting
specifications from Dionex Corporation for $34,755. This instrument will
be used by the Water Division and funds were approved in the 1986-87
budget.
4. M87-0273
Approving the purchase of surveying equipment based on the low bid of
$15,572.24 from Duderstadt Surveyors Supply, Inc. The equipment consists
of an electronic total station, electronic distance meter, and a precision
level. This equipment will be used by the Water Division with funds
approved in the 1986-87 budget.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 12
5. M87-0274
Authorizing receipt of bids on August 25, 1987, for improvements to
Crestmont, Pebble, Temple, West Haven and Winrock Parks.
6. M87-0275
Authorizing receipt of bids on August 25, 1987, for the Renovation and
Expansion of Existing Recreation Facilities involving the Lindale
Recreation Center, West Guth Swimming Pool, and Price Softball Field.
7. M87-0276
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to enter into a one-year
services contract with J.B. Cargile for the installation and maintenance of
coin-operated telescopes on city property located along the bayfront or the
Cayo Del Oso.
8. M87-0277
Authorizing the City Manager to submit an application to Laubach Literacy
Action in the amount of $2,040 and the execution of the necessary documents
for its implementation by the Retired Senior Volunteer Program.
9. M87-0278
Authorizing the City Manager and/or his designee to submit an Urban
Development Action Grant application to the U. S. Department of Housing &
Urban Development (HUD) for the expansion and development of the Bayfront
Arts & Sciences Park including commercial activities, and directing the
City Manager and staff to undertake such activities as may be necessary in
accordance with HUD regulations and guidelines.
10. M87-0279
Awarding a contract to Progressive Structures, Inc. for the Wastewater
Building Enclosure project, and authorizing a deductive change order in the
amount of $2,529 for a net contract award of $22,470.
10a. M87-0280
Setting a public hearing on August 25, 1987 at 2:00 p.m. for consideration
of the proposed tax rate for fiscal year 1987-88.
A motion was made by Council Member Strong that Consent Motions 1 thru 10a,
as revised, with the exception of Items 5, 7 and 8 be approved; seconded by
Council Member Slavik; and passed unanimously.^
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 13
Council Member Slavik referred to Item No. 5, specifically to the fitness
course; to be installed in Crestmont and Windrock Parks and inquired if the
courses will be similar to the one on Ocean Drive, and Mr. Lontos replied in the
affirmative.
Council Member Slavik then referred to Item No. 7 which authorizes the
installation of coin-operated telescopes and inquired if any will be installed
in the Hans Sutter Wildlife Park. Assistant City Manager Hennings explained
that three will be installed first on the bayfront, following which others will
be installed at the park referred to and Cayo Del Oso.
Council Member Rhodes inquired about the amount of the grant for the
retired senior volunteer program referred to in Item No. 8, and Mr. Hennings
confirmed that the amount of the grant is $2,040.
There were no comments from the audience on these items. A motion was made
by Council Member Pruet that Consent Motions 5, 7 and 8 be approved, seconded by
Council Member Strong; and passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Consent Resolutions, Ordinances
and Ordinances from previous meetings and Council Members requested that
Ordinances 15, 22 and 25 be withheld for further discussion.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on the other
Ordinances and the following were passed:
11. ORDINANCE NO. 19868
DETERMINING THE NECESSITY FOR AND ORDERING THE IMPROVEMENT OF: Gardendale
Area, Phase I 1. Bonner Drive, from Everhart Road to South Staples
Street, and 2. Betty Jean Drive, Nelson Lane, and Burton Lane, from Holly
Road to Williams Drive; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was
taken.
12. ORDINANCE NO. 19869
APPROVING THE WRITTEN STATEMENT OF THE CITY ENGINEER OF VARIOUS COSTS FOR
THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE FOLLOWING STREET: Gardendale Area, Phase I 1.
Bonner Drive, from Everhart Road to South Staples Street, and 2. Betty
Jean Drive Drive, Nelson Lane and Burton Lane, from Holly Road to Williams
Drive; DETERMINING THE PORTION OF SAID COSTS TO BE ASSESSED AGAINST
ABUTTING PROPERTY AND THE PORTION TO BE PAID BY THE CITY; SETTING A PUBLIC
HEARING ON THE PRELIMINARY ROLL DURING THE REGULAR 2:00 P.M. COUNCIL
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 14
MEETING ON AUGUST 25, 1987, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 302 SOUTH
SHORELINE BOULEVARD, CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was
taken.
13. ORDINANCE NO. 19870
APPROVING THE DEVELOPER'S APPLICATION AND AUTHORIZING REIMBURSEMENT TO HANK
OLSON DEVELOPMENT, FOR THE INSTALLATION OF APPROXIMATELY 965 LINEAR FEET OF
8 -INCH, 935 LINEAR FEET of 12 -INCH, AND 778 LINEAR FEET OF 15 -INCH DIAMETER
SANITARY SEWER LINES; AUTHORIZING A TRANSFER OF $5,000 AND APPROPRIATING
$53,332.50; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was
taken.
14. ORDINANCE NO. 19871
AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE BY AMENDING ARTICLE 31, NEWLY ANNEXED
TERRITORY, BY ADDING TO SECTION 31-5 THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF SAID
AREAS OF LAND DESCRIBED AS PORTIONS OUT OF SECTION 31 AND SECTION A,
LAURELS FARM TRACT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was
taken.
16. RESOLUTION NO. 19873
ACCEPTING THE 13TH YEAR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ALL RELATED
DOCUMENTS; AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR ELIGIBLE 13TH YEAR PROJECTS AS
DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT "A."
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
17. RESOLUTION NO. 19874
APPROPRIATING $105,579.07 TO SUPPLEMENT $31,319.14 PREVIOUSLY APPROPRIATED
FUNDS FOR REIMBURSEMENT TO THE GENERAL FUND FOR WORK ACCOMPLISHED AT
VARIOUS PARKS BY PARK CONSTRUCTION FORCES.
linutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 15
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
18. RESOLUTION NO. 19875
APPROPRIATING $4,468.00 FROM THE PARK TRUST FUND TO SUPPLEMENT $20,960.00
PREVIOUSLY APPROPRIATED FOR REIMBURSEMENT TO THE GENERAL FUND FOR THE
PLANNING AND DESIGN OF VARIOUS PARK PROJECTS.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
19. RESOLUTION NO. 19876
APPROPRIATING $42,301.16 FROM VARIOUS BOND FUNDS FOR REIMBURSEMENT TO THE
102 GENERAL FUND FOR ACCOUNTING AND COLLECTION SERVICES.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
20. RESOLUTION NO. 19877
APPROPRIATING $137,647.05 TO SUPPLEMENT $171,830.51 REMAINING FROM EXISTING
CONTINGENCY APPROPRIATIONS TO VARIOUS PROJECTS AS SHOWN ON EXHIBIT "A" TO
REIMBURSE THE GENERAL FUND FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
21. RESOLUTION NO. 19878
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH M. D. KOCH, Ph.D FOR
SERVICES AS A POLICE PSYCHOLOGIST.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
23. RESOLUTION NO. 19880
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH V. C. HUFF, INC. FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF TRAFFIC SIGNAL IMPROVEMENTS AT THE INTERSECTION OF ALAMEDA
STREET/OCEAN DRIVE; AND APPROPRIATING $42,800.
'inutes
degular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 16
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
24. RESOLUTION NO. 19881
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH CLOSS AND MEDRANO, INC. FOR
THE EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENTS TO THE WILLIAMS DRIVE CLINIC; AUTHORIZING
DEDUCTIVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 FOR SPECIFICATION AND BUILDING MODIFICATIONS;
APPROPRIATING $92,256.97.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
26. RESOLUTION NO. 19882
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH JAMES B. BOGGS, AIA, FOR
ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES; APPROPRIATING $22,000.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
27. RESOLUTION NO. 19883
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF
HIGHWAYS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, MAINTENANCE, AND
OPERATION OF A CONTINUOUS HIGHWAY ILLUMINATION SYSTEM ALONG PADRE ISLAND
DRIVE FROM EAST OF THE OSO BAY BRIDGES TO EAST OF LAGUNA SHORES ROAD.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
28. RESOLUTION NO. 19884
AUTHORIZING EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS BY THE CITY TO CONDEMN FEE TITLE TO
A PARCEL OF LAND FOR THE I.H. 37/U.S. 77 INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT
AND TO ACQUIRE SAID PARCEL FROM THE OWNER, ELSIE B. GREENWOOD.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent;
Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 17
29. RESOLUTION NO. 19885
APPROPRIATING $3,516.25 FOR THE PURCHASE OF PERMANENT ART IN PEBBLE,
WINROCK, AND CENIZO NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS; AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF AN
ART SELECTION OF ART WORK FOR THESE PARKS.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was
taken.
Mayor Turner called for discussion of Ordinance No. 15 approving Change
Order No. 1 to the contract with Manhatten Construction Company on the new City
Hall.
City Manager McDowell informed the Council that the total amount in the
Bond Program for this project was $15 million; $4.5 million had been spent for
land acquisition and the construction contract was for $10 million. He
explained that the basic changes to the contract are the relocation of the
computer room, additional office space and reorganization of other office spaces
within the new City Hall at a cost not to exceed $557,000 and approving a time
extension to the construction contract for completion of the project on or
before December 30, 1987.
Council Member Moss inquired as to why the Staff did not recommend approval
of Alternative No. 3 which approves the Change Order including the Emergency
Operation Center/Training Center for a total cost of $651,000, and City Manager
McDowell stated that if the Council desired, that amount could be approved to
include the Center. Mr. Moss indicated that he felt that this alternate should
be approved.
Council Member Rhodes inquired about the reason for the Change Orders, and
Mr. McDowell explained that the Change Orders were necessitated by redesigns.
Mrs. Rhodes stated that the last two renditions of the City Council, Mayor
and City Secretary's office indicated that the City Secretary's office is very
limited in space; the City Council space is quite large; the Council Members are
not in the office very often; and she saw no necessity for a large conference
room in the area.
Mr. McDowell pointed out that the original plans called for even more
limited space for the City Secretary's office and the space now is greater now
than the original plans. Mrs. Rhodes stated that may be true but questioned who
had authorized the changes in the plans, noting that the Council did not have an
opportunity to approve them and some of the new Council Members had never seen
the plans.
Mr. McDowell stated that the latest plans have been enlarged for the City
Secretary's operation and allows space for research. Council Member Rhodes
reiterated that she did not think that the City Council needs a conference room
and an office which required the limitation of space in the City Secretary's
9inutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 18
office where a number of employees work five days a week in very limited space
and the Council office and conference room will only be used once or twice a
week.
City Secretary Chapa explained that he has worked with the City architect
and has shown Mayor Turner some plans that he feels will be very workable and
that he hopes will be acceptable to the Mayor. He explained that the space will
include a large area for the Council, a conference room but there would not be a
cubicle for the Council to use for a telephone which would not be used very
often. He noted that telephones will be available in the Council Room and in
the conference room, as well as other areas in the City Secretary's office.
Council Member Rhodes stated she would like to see the plans as they are
right now noting that over one—half million dollars worth of changes are asked
to be approved, and the Council has not even seen the changes.
Council Member Mendez stated that he has the same questions that Mrs.
Rhodes has and he, too, would like to see the changes.
City Manager McDowell explained that primarily the changes include moving
the computer room to the ground level and the changes include redesign of
offices to accommodate the change in Assistant City Managers.
Council Member Mendez pointed out that these are very dramatic changes and
he felt that the Council should be aware of exactly what the changes are before
approving this item. He suggested that this item be tabled until the Council
has an opportunity to review the plans.
Mr. McDowell pointed out that the contractor has been very patient; the
item has been delayed for about two weeks; and he is not sure that the
contractor can wait any longer.
Mayor Turner inquired if the rooms have actually been designed and started
by the contractor, and Mr. Victor Medina, Director of Engineering Services,
stated that the rooms have not been laid out yet but a lot of the electrical,
mechanical, etc. are in place which may have to be moved. He also addressed a
Council concern in regard to the computer room on the ground level and stated
that he agreed that this is a better location for this, and the Staff is sure
that the building will drain properly so that none of the equipment would be
damaged in case of heavy rains. He explained that the finished floor of the
ground level is eight inches above the driveway where the water will be drained
away from the building, and a pump is readily available in case of any flooding.
Council Member Pruet inquired if this item could be delayed until the end
of the meeting to provide the Staff an opportunity to bring the plans downstairs
and explain the changes. He pointed out that the City Council had looked at the
plans about one and a half years ago and some of the Council Members have never
seen the plans.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 19
Mr. McDowell stated that he hoped that the Council would approve this
Change Order today after the plans have been reviewed.
Council Member Slavik inquired about the remaining funds, and Mr. Medina
replied that there is $800,000 in the Bond Fund which is adequate for this
Change Order, and Mr. McDowell noted that if the Council decided to approve
Alternative No. 3, there would be $651,000 available.
A motion was made by Council Member Moss to amend Item No. 15 to include
the Emergency Operation Center/Training Center. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Pruet and passed unanimously.
Mayor Turner called for comments from the audience on this item.
Mr. Joe McComb, former Council Member, 5323 St. Andrews, referred to the
discussion of more space for Council Members to meet with constituents, and
expressed the opinion that this would be a step in the wrong direction to
encourage Council Members to spend more time in City Hall when this City has a
Council Manager form of government. He stated that the space could more
adequately be used by the City Secretary or elsewhere. He also referred to the
fact that the news media were consulted at the time the plans were adopted in
regard to the facilities for the news media in the Council Chambers. He
suggested that if they wanted changes made, they should have made that known at
that time. He also pointed out that funds for the additional parking area were
taken from the bond money as well and referred to the reported latent defects,
such as the leaking windows, and inquired if it has been determined as to how
these will be paid for.
City Manager McDowell explained that those expenses will be discussed with
the insurance company.
The Council decided to review the plans in the committee room before taking
a vote on this Ordinance.
In a discussion of Ordinance No. 22 concerning the award of contract to
install sanitary sewers in the San Carlos area, Council Member Mendez inquired
if Staff felt that A.M.H. Construction Co. would be able to complete this job
considering the low bid they had submitted.
Assistant City Manager Lontos explained that the contractor has performed
well as a sub -contractor on other jobs; the cost the contractor included in his
bid was computed with a very low profit; and all indications are that he will
perform a good job on this project.
City Manager McDowell stated that Council Member Leo Guerrero had requested
that Resolution No. 25 be withdrawn at this time because he felt that the amount
of $179,829 for an electronic message display center for the Bayfront Plaza
Convention Center is not a good price and stated that he felt that he would be
able to obtain a better cost on this project.
Council Member Moss inquired as to when plans were approved by the Council
and when the bids were received on the project, and Mr. McDowell explained that
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 20
this project was initiated by the previous Council, and Assistant City Manager
Hennings stated that bids were opened in June.
It was the Council's consensus that Item No. 25 should be withdrawn.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Ordinance No. 22
and it passed as follows:
22. RESOLUTION NO. 19879
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT WITH A.M.H. CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
FOR SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENTS IN THE SAN CARLOS AREA OF THE CITY;
APPROPRIATING $78,000.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and
Strong voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent.
Mayor Turner then called for consideration of Ordinance 30 thru 39. There
was no discussion from the Council or the audience on these items.
30. FIRST READING
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE PADRE LITTLE LEAGUE
FOR A TRACT OF LAND OUT OF THE HOLLY ROAD RESERVOIR FOR A RECREATIONAL
AREA.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
31. FIRST READING
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A THREE YEAR GRAZING LEASE AGREEMENT WITH
ARLAN BRUNE AND GARY CLANTON FOR A 3.9 ACRE TRACT OF LAND LOCATED OFF HEARN
ROAD.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
32. FIRST READING
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, SECTION 2-78, FEES, TO
INCREASE OVERDUE FEES AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SET OTHER FEES FOR
LIBRARY SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its first reading by the following vote:
Minutes,
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 21
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
33. SECOND READING
AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE ARTICLE 28A, "HC" HISTORICAL -CULTURAL
LANDMARK PRESERVATION, BY DELETING SECTION 28-A-5 LANDMARK COMMISSION -
CREATED.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its second reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
34. SECOND READING
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDINANCES BY ADDING A NEW SECTION TO CHAPTER 2,
ADMINISTRATION, ARTICLE IV, MISCELLANEOUS BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND
COMMITTEES, TO INCLUDE THE LANDMARK COMMISSION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its second reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
35. SECOND READING
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 53, TRAFFIC, SECTION 53-254, SCHEDULE V -
INCREASE OF STATE SPEED LIMIT IN CERTAIN ZONES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE;
AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its second reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
36. ORDINANCE NO. 19886
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 53, TRAFFIC, SECTION 53-250, SCHEDULE I -
ONE WAY STREETS AND ALLEYS: PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
37. ORDINANCE NO. 19887
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 53, TRAFFIC, SECTION 53-252, SCHEDULE III -
PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES ON CERTAIN STREETS, AND SECTION 53-253,
SCHEDULE IV - STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING PROHIBITED DURING CERTAIN HOURS
ON CERTAIN STREETS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
iinutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 22
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
38. ORDINANCE NO. 19888
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF SIX FARMING LEASE AGREEMENTS WITH W. A.
WHITMIRE, BERNSEN BROTHERS, JOHN KELLY, KLOSTERMANN FARMS, KOCUREK FARMS,
AND PAT McDONOUGH FOR PROPERTY AT CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Strong voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Slavik absent at the time the vote was taken.
39. ORDINANCE NO. 19889
AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, DIVISION 15, SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
ADVISORY COMMITTEE, BY AMENDING SECTIONS 2-170, MEMBERSHIP, AND 2-173,
DUTIES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes and Slavik voting, "Aye";
Guerrero absent; Strong absent at the time the vote was taken.
Mayor Turner then called for consideration of Ordinances 40, 41 and 41a
from the regular agenda.
Council Member Berlanga referred to Ordinance No. 40 which deletes
automatic salary advancement based on longevity and provides a change in the
compensation and classification plan to accomplish this. He stated that he did
not see how it would be reasonable to totally avoid salary increases for
longevity because employees should be rewarded for satisfactory work and this is
the only method that some employees have of receiving salary increases. He
expressed the opinion that if this is deleted from the compensation plan, the
City will have employees who would see no reason to continue to stay in a
particular position. He pointed out that many employees are very valuable
because of their years of experience
Council Member Mendez stated that he has concerns about this also because
the Council had discussed the fact that there would be no salary increases
whether they are merit increases or longevity increases. He stated that he
thought that there would be absolutely no salary increases, yet this ordinance
apparently does not indicate that.
Council Member Moss stated that this recommendation indicates that the
emphasis is that salary increases will be based on performance, but Mr. Mendez
stated that it was his understanding that there would be no salary increases at
all during this fiscal year.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 23
City Manager McDowell explained that the item before the Council is to
change the compensation plan to delete automatic salary advancement on longevity
and there will be no type of salary increases during this fiscal year. He
explained that the money available will be placed in the incentive program which
will be used to reward specific employees for suggestions that will save the
City money. He assured the Council that there will be absolutely no salary
increases in fiscal year 1987-88 because the reward from the incentive program
will be a one-time compensation and will not be in addition to their salaries.
Council Member Mendez reiterated that the memorandum supporting this item
is certainly not clear that there will be no salary increases.
City Manager McDowell again assured the Council that there will be no
salary increases in this fiscal year, but the compensation plan ordinance is
being amended to delete automatic increases for longevity but merit increases
will not be given this year. He stated that the $235,000 that would have been
used for the longevity increases will be placed in the incentive program and
only utilized if city employees present a plan to save the City money. He also
stated that there is no money in the budget for cost of living salary increases
except for police which has already been agreed upon. He stated again that
there will be no salary increases for any employees, either based on merit or
step increases.
Council Member Mendez expressed the opinion that the City owes a lot to
City employees for what they do, and since they will not receive any salary
increases this year, he stated that he felt that the Council should consider
granting additional holidays for City employees. He pointed out that only seven
holidays are provided for City employees and he suggested that this be increased
to ten.
City Manager McDowell explained the cost of granting a holiday.
Discussion followed on this issue and a suggestion was made that rather
than holidays, three days of personal leave be granted to all City employees
which would still be less expensive than any other kind of salary increase.
Mayor Pro Tem Moss stated that he disagreed with this, pointing out that
there is so much overtime in the budget because apparently there are not enough
Staff members to perform the work, and yet the suggestion has been made to offer
them more time off.
Council Member Rhodes stated that she disagreed with Mr. Moss because the
City is asking employees to do more work for less pay and she felt that
approving three days personal leave would provide some type of reward.
A motion was made by Council Member Mendez that Ordinance No. 40 be amended
to allow three personal days of leave for all City employees. The motion was
seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed by the following vote: Turner,
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 24
Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong, voting "Aye"; Moss voting
"No"; Guerrero absent.
Discussion followed on Ordinance No. 41a which is the first reading of an
Ordinance amending the code to establish permit fees for ground transportation
at the airport.
City Manager McDowell explained that this will impose a fee on any vehicles
that conduct business at the airport. He stated that this has been discussed
with the industry and it will allow the City to better regulate the conditions
of the taxicabs and prescribe some reasonable type of dress for the drivers.
Mayor Turner stated that she has spoken to a commercial firm that will
provide the tropical print shirts for taxicab drivers and noted that this will
include a training program to prepare the drivers to be a type of goodwill
ambassador.
There were no comments from the audience on these Ordinances; City
Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes; and the following Ordinances
were approved:
40. ORDINANCE NO. 19890
AMENDING ORDINANCE 3658, AS AMENDED, KNOWN AS THE COMPENSATION AND
CLASSIFICATION PLAN: BY AMENDING SECTION 552 THEREOF SO AS TO DELETE
AUTOMATIC SALARY ADJUSTMENT BASED ON LONGEVITY; AND BY ADDING A NEW SECTION
951.10 THERETO TO PROVIDE THREE PERSONAL DAYS PER YEAR; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY, PROVIDING FOR REVIEW OF JOB PERFORMANCE.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye"; Moss voting "No"; Guerrero absent.
(Note: Cliff Moss voted "Aye" on Ordinance No. 40 but later requested that
the vote be changed to "No.")
41. FIRST READING
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 9, AVIATION, SECTION 9-54, LANDING FEES FOR
COMMERCIAL AIRCRAFT; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong voting,
"Aye"; Guerrero absent.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 25
41a. FIRST READING
AMENDING CHAPTER 9, AVIATION, BY ADDING A NEW SECTION 9-61, PERMIT FOR
COMMERCIAL GROUND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND
PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on its first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong voting,
"Aye"; Guerrero absent.
Mayor Turner declared a five-minute recess at 3:30 p.m.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner reconvened the Council Meeting and announced the recessed
public hearing on the proposed 1987-88 budget, noting that the Ordinance
adopting the budget is before the Council for consideration.
City Manager McDowell explained that the summary provided the Council is
based on his memorandum of July 27, 1987, which provides changes both in revenue
and makes recommendations on the funding for the additional amounts for the
Corpus Christi Area Convention and Tourist Bureau which has previously been
approved by the City Council, and it identifies other requests that were made to
the Council during the public hearing on the budget. He explained that the
original amount budgeted for the Tourist and Convention Bureau was $1,056,167
and he recommends that the additional funds be provided as follows:
$112,669 from land sale proceeds of the old Tourist Bureau site; $432,310,
transfer the debt service obligation for the Bayfront Convention Center
buildings to the City's overall debt service and free those funds for this
purpose; and $110,854 from the anticipation of a ten percent increase in the
projected $2,578,000 of revenue from the Hotel/Motel tax and distribute 43
percent to the Tourist and Convention Bureau which maintains the same formula in
the present contract between the City and the Bureau.
Mr. McDowell continued by stating that the operational budget does not
require a tax increase; the issue relative to bonds will be presented by the
Task Force chaired by Council Member Mendez on August llth with a decision
relative to those matters to be considered at the time the tax rate is set on
August 18th. He reminded the Council that Staff has established an effective
cost containment program that will allow for reduction of the cost of services;
overtime has been reduced by five percent; and any additional revenue or savings
realized through the cost containment program will be allocated first to the
reserves until the goal of five percent of the total budget is in the reserves.
He stated that following the report by the bond task force, it may be necessary
to increase the tax rate to pay off any bonds that are sold during this fiscal
year.
Mayor Turner called for comments from groups of people or individuals in
the audience on adoption of the budget.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 26
Mr. Roger Wright, 6117 Beechwood Drive, representing the newly formed
Boaters Association, expressed opposition on behalf of that group to the boat
tax on recreational boats. He stated that approximately 25 to 30 people are
present to speak on this issue but in the interest of time they have agreed to
allow him to speak for them.
Mayor Turner informed Mr. Wright that the boat tax funds are not included
in this budget. Mr. Wright continued by stating that the boat tax is aimed at
only one group of people; people with other hobbies are not being taxed; if this
boat tax is approved, the City Council should expect owners of boats to move
them to other cities in the area. He noted that tourism is being emphasized by
this City and stated that he felt that the boats in the marina are an important
attraction to the tourists. He reminded the Council that the boat owners had
gone to the expense of installing lights on their boats for the Harbor Lights
celebration at Christmas time. Mr. Wright stated that although they understand
now that the boat taxes are not included as a part of the budget, they hope that
the City Council decides not to tax boats. He pointed out that boat owners are
people who have helped get bonds passed and have helped elect Council Members.
He urged that this unfair tax not be approved.
Mr. Jason Luby also expressed support of the issue not to tax boats. He
pointed out that boat owners purchase groceries, drinks and other supplies and
have boat repairs performed, all of which are taxed. He expressed the opinion
that the boat tax is an unfair tax. He then asked all of the people who were
opposed to the boat tax to stand, and approximately 30 people responded.
Mr. Miles Compton, 1801 Third Street, spoke in regard to Jazz in the Park
for which he had requested $50,000 for expenses of the concerts. He explained
that he had spoken at the public hearing on the budget; the concerts will be
recorded and offered to radio stations all over the United States which would in
turn generate publicity for the City of Corpus Christi; and he stated that he
would now like to inform the Council that they are prepared to provide matching
funds by November 1st.
Council Member Slavik informed Mr.
have mentioned the possibility of funding
stated that she feels that it is a good
all over the nation would provide good
Christi. She inquired if Mr. Compton had
Tourist Bureau.
Compton that several Council Members
this through the Tourist Bureau. She
tourist attraction and the broadcasts
advertising for the City of Corpus
discussed this with Chris Davis of the
Mr. Compton stated that he has written to Mr. Davis
a formal reply.
but he has not received
Council Member Slavik stated that she felt that it was a good program, but
in her opinion, the funds should come from the Tourist Bureau.
Council Member Strong agreed, stating that she would be glad to discuss
this possibility with Chris Davis, particularly since it involves national
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 27
distribution of tapes which could be considered excellent advertising. She
assured Mr. Compton that she and Bill Pruet will go with him to request funding
from the Tourist Bureau advertising budget.
Mr. Charles Blum, Chairman of the Park and Recreation Board, referred to
the proposed increase in the amount taken from golf fee funds to be allocated to
the General Fund for administrative costs and urged that this percentage not be
increased but that the additional $155,835 remain in the Golf Fund budget.
Mayor Turner indicated her support of this request.
City Manager McDowell explained that the Park and Recreation Board had
requested a $155,835 reduction in the indirect cost allocation against the golf
fund by the general fund. He noted also that the Park and Recreation Board had
indicated that they would recommend that adult recreation programs be
self-supporting, in which case there could be some increases in revenue to
offset this amount. Mr. Blum stated that he will present to the City Council a
recommendation for an increase in fees for adult recreation and stated that this
could be a significant amount of money.
No one else spoke in regard to the budget.
A motion was made by Council Member Pruet that the hearing be closed,
seconded by Council Member Berlanga, and passed unanimously.
A motion was made by Council Member Strong to use the revenues previously
described by the City Manager for the funding for the increase in the Tourist
and Convention Bureau Budget. The motion was seconded by Council Member Mendez
and passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes
and Strong voting, "Aye"; Slavik voting "No"; Guerrero absent.
Council Member Strong referred to the funding for the ambulance service and
stated that she had noted in a newspaper article that the hospital district had
not made their payments since January. She inquired as to who is making up the
difference in the cost, and City Manager McDowell stated that he has met with
Mr. Wheeler Lipes of the Memorial Medical Center and the hospital district.
They had some concerns and hopefully, those questions have been answered. He
stated that he is not sure why they have taken this position to withhold their
payments, but it is possibly because they previously recommended redistribution
of the ambulances and the City did not follow that suggestion.
Council Member Strong stated that
Manager make a formal request to the
that their fees are not being paid.
actually a communication problem which
she would like to recommend that the City
Board of the Hospital to make them aware
She expressed the opinion that it is
needs to be resolved.
Council Member Strong expressed concern that City parks are not being
watered because of lack of funds in the departmental budget to pay for the
water. A motion was then made by Council Member Strong to discontinue charging
departments for water.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 28
City Manager McDowell stated that according to Terry Dopson, there has been
no discontinuation of watering because of budget restraints. He explained that
they need to identify a method of determining the cost of watering by different
departments. They agreed that if there is no charge, there would be an increase
in the general fund but a decrease in the water fund. He also reminded the
Council that he had previously informed them that there is no charge for
watering the golf courses because effluent is used. He stated that if the City
goes to a single meter for the parks, it may be possible to reduce the cost of
watering to the department. Council Member Strong then withdrew her first
motion and made a motion that water rates for the Park and Recreation Department
and other departments be restructured. The motion was seconded by Council
Member Mendez.
Discussion followed and Council Member Rhodes expressed the opinion that
this was wasted discussion because the Council is really talking about removing
City funds from one place and putting it in another place, and City Manager
McDowell explained that the reason for the discussion is to increase the amount
in the general fund but stated that any increase in the general fund should be
placed in the reserves, which the Council had previously stated was their
policy.
Council Member Strong stated the reason for the motion was not to take that
cash to spend but as a method of increasing the reserves.
Council Member Mendez stated that he would like to withdraw his second to
the motion if that is the situation.
Council Member Pruet referred to the sales tax base expansion and stated
that he understands that it is estimated that the City will receive
approximately $300,000 more. Mr. McDowell stated that is correct because the
City will only receive the increase for eight months.
Council Member Slavik referred to the discussion the preceding week in
regard to the Sister City Budget which has been doubled and asked for the reason
for this.
City Manager McDowell stated that the increase was necessitated because of
the addition of two new Sister Cities, Keelung, Taiwan and Vera Cruz, Mexico.
Council Member Slavik inquired if Staff consults with those committees to
see what the money is spent for, and Mr. McDowell stated that communication is
conducted with all boards because there is a staff liaison person who works with
all of the committees.
Council Member Slavik inquired about the amount of money that is left in
the Library Building Fund, and Mr. McDowell stated that he is now recommending
that $100,000 be taken from the remainder of the amount in the Bond Fund for
construction for the purchase of library books for the library as was
recommended by Bill Kirschner, Chairman of the Friends of the Library.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 29
Council Member Pruet referred to Page 3 of the City Manager's memorandum
which stated that $209,868 is available for additional Council allocation. He
stated that he would like to recommend that $155,835 be allocated back to the
Golf Fund and that the additional $54,033 be designated for the Arts Council.
He stated that he would like to put this in the form of a motion. The motion
was seconded by Council Member Strong.
Council Member Mendez stated that he would like to amend that motion to
recommend that $100,000 be allocated from the Library Building Fund to replace
the funds in the library budget to purchase books. Mr. Mendez' amendment to the
motion was seconded by Council Member Slavik and Mayor Turner called for the
vote on that motion which passed unanimously.
Mayor Turner then called for the vote on Mr. Pruet's motion to allocate
$155,835 to the Golf Fund and $54,033 for the Arts Council and that motion also
passed unanimously.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Moss that the pleasure boats not be
taxed. The motion was seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Pruet, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye";
Mendez and Rhodes voting, "No"; Guerrero absent.
Council Member Rhodes suggested that the $250,000 that was on the agenda
for recommended funding for the Electronic Message Display Centers for the
Bayfront Plaza Convention Center be used for the critical staffing problem in
the library.
City Manager McDowell stated that those funds were to be allocated from the
Convention Center Bond Fund; they have no effect on the budget and cannot be
transferred to the operating budget.
Mayor Turner stated that she would like to urge that the Library Board
consider the possibility of using volunteers from the City's volunteer program.
Mayor Turner suggested that the Council adopt the budget in the amount of
$209,765.733.
City Manager McDowell explained that as the year progresses, if funds
become available, the City Council could allocate funds for other requests that
they had received.
Council Member Strong agreed that those requests that have been made should
be granted if money does become available after the City has deposited five
percent in the reserves. She suggested that one source of revenue might be a
fee for the use of the boat launching ramps and suggested that this be
considered by the Marina Board to offset some of the losses that the City has
encountered.
Minutes •
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 30
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes; and the Ordinance
adopting the budget was passed as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 19891
ADOPTING AND APPROVING CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI BUDGET FOR THE ENSUING FISCAL
YEAR BEGINNING AUGUST 1, 1987, AND ENDING JULY 31, 1988, ACCORDING TO THE
CITY CHARTER FOR PURPOSE OF FILING ADOPTED BUDGET WITH COUNTY CLERK UNDER
TEXAS BUDGET LAW; APPROPRIATING MONIES FOR SAID BUDGET; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERANCE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent; Pruet absent at the time the vote was
taken.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for petitions from the audience on items not scheduled
on the agenda.
Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, stated that he thought it was very
interesting that in adopting the budget, the City Council Members felt compelled
to spend everything possible with no consideration given to possibly reducing
the tax rate for taxpayers. He stated that he had heard so much about the
importance of economic development but pointed out that all of the Council's
friends in Austin have certainly hurt the economic development by increasing the
taxes. He asked that the City Council consider reducing the Hotel/Motel tax by
two percent.
Mayor Turner responded by pointing out that the City Council made every
effort to reduce the budget and not increase the tax rates and she would like to
personally commend the City Council for their efforts in approving a good
budget.
Mr. O'Brien urged that the City Council stop giving away money for economic
development if they plan to sell bonds.
Mr. Bryan Powers, appearing on behalf of Mrs. Al Rae Houston, a member of
the Corpus Christi Cycle Club, stated that the City has an ordinance that
prohibits the riding of bicycles on the Harbor Bridge. He asked that this
prohibition be suspended for approximately one hour at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday,
September 13th. He stated that at that time they anticipate that 400 to 500
bicycle riders will ride completely encircling the bay and for that reason they
would need to cross the Harbor Bridge.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Moss that this prohibition be suspended
for that specific time and date. The motion was seconded by Council Member
Mendez and passed unanimously.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 28, 1987
Page 31
City Manager McDowell stated that he felt that the City would have to have
' an ordinance on the agenda the following meeting to accomplish this.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Council then considered Item No. 15 pertaining to the Change Order for
City Hall and went into the committee room to examine the display of the City
Hall plans. After returning to the Council Chamber, City Secretary Chapa polled
the Council for their votes; and the following Ordinance was passed:
15. ORDINANCE NO. 19872
AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO THE CONTRACT WITH MANHATTAN CONSTRUCTION
COMPANY PROVIDING FOR THE RELOCATION OF THE COMPUTER ROOM, ADDITIONAL
OFFICE SPACE, THE ADDITION OF AN EMERGENCY OPERATION CENTER, AND THE
REORGANIZATION OF OTHER OFFICE SPACES WITHIN THE NEW CITY HALL; AUTHORIZING
AN 89 CALENDAR DAY TIME EXTENSION TO THE CONTRACT FOR THIS CHANGE ORDER
WORK; APPROPRIATING $651,000; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
The Charter Rule was suspended and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Mendez, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and
Strong voting, "Aye"; Guerrero absent.
There being no further business to come before the Council, on motion by
Council Member Strong, seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed unanimously,
the Regular Council Meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m. July 28, 1987.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
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 July 28,
1987, which were approved by the City Council on August 11, 1987. ��!((� ���
day of @_t6'1.c'^, jZO1.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the
Turne
Bktty , MAYOR
Armando Chapa, City Secretary
City of Corpus Christi