HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 12/20/1988PRESENT
Mayor Betty Turner
Mayor Pro Tem Leo Guerrero
Council Members:
David Berlanga, Sr.
Clif Moss
Bill Pruet
Mary Rhodes
Frank Schwing
Mary Pat Slavik
Linda Strong *
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 20, 1988
2:00 p.m.
City Manager Juan Garza
City Attorney Hal George
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Mayor Betty Turner called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of
City Hall.
The invocation was delivered by Reverend John Gibbs of Oak Park United
Methodist Church following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the
United States was led by Council Member David Berlanga.
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.
Mayor Turner called for approval of the Minutes of the Regular Council
Meeting of December 13, 1988.
Council Member Moss requested that a question he posed at the meeting be
included on Page 12, and Mayor Turner proclaimed the Minutes approved as
corrected.
Mayor Turner recognized Ms. Deirdre Norton and Ms. Dorothy McCoy, members
of the Library Advisory Committee, who presented a Special Award to Ms. Carol
Matthews, President of the Junior League, for a five-year computer project
initiated by the Junior League. Ms. McCoy explained the computer project and
Ms. Matthews stated that the Junior League is honored to be nominated for this
prestigious award and proud to provide this very special service.
Assistant City Manager Debra Andrews and Raul Vasquez, a member of the Risk
Management Department, commented on a recent incident in the City whereby a City
employee, Martin Tamez, was responsible for saving the life of a two-month old
baby who needed CPR attention. Mr. Vasquez elaborated on the recent incident
and explained the CPR and first-aid training which is offered to City employees.
MICROFILMED
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Regular Council Meeting
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Members of the Red Cross presented Mr. Tamez with an award for his life-
saving skills in saving a human life and commended the City for making the CPR
program available to the employees.
* Council Member Strong arrived at 2:13 p.m.
Mayor Turner administered the Oaths of Office to the following Board and
Committee appointees: August Meinrath - Board of Adjustment; Bertie Hoch,
Hildegardo Flores - Library Advisory Committee; and James Wright - Transportation
Advisory Committee.
Mayor Turner referred to the Board & Committee appointments and the
following appointments were made by the Council:
Citizens Advisory Health Board Sister City Committee
Patricia Herman David Neipert
Landmark Commission
Marcia Cobb - Reappointed Govind Nadkarni - Reappointed
Nadine Coyle - " Robert Kipp -
Hal Holmes - " Alclair Pleasant -
Mark Scott - Joe Williams -
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Consent Motions, Resolutions,
Ordinances and Ordinances form previous meetings and Council Members requested
that Items 3, 4 and 13 be withheld for discussion.
There were no questions from members of the audience on the other items.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
1. M88-0266
Motion approving supply agreements for various brass and galvanized service
fittings in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0022-89 with the
following companies based on low bid for a total of $107,372.55. The terms
of the contracts will be twelve months with option to extend for an
additional twelve months subject to the approval of the supplier and the
City Manager or his designee. These items are used by the Water Division.
Aqua Utility
International Supply Company, Inc.
T
$55,919.05
31,577.00
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Corpus Christi Pipe and Supply
The foregoing motion passed
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes,
2. M88-0267
19,876.50
Grand Total $107,372.55
by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to contract for
services with Able Consultants to conduct a cooperative planning study for
City, CCISD, and Catholic Diocese libraries using the funds in the amount
of $20,364 provided under the Library Services and Construction Act (Title
III).
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
5. M88-0270
Motion awarding a
Company for minor storm sewer improvements in various locations throughout
the City.
contract for $87,930.30 to Larson Plumbing and Utility
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
6. M88-0271
Motion accepting the construction of waterfront improvements associated
with the Texas State Aquarium and authorizing final payment of $89,499.14
to Garrett Construction Company.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
7. M88-0272
Motion accepting the Convention Center Improvements project, granting the
contractor a 116 -day time extension, and authorizing final payment of
$57,219.70 and retainage interest to B.E. Beecroft Co., Inc.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
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8. M88-0273
Motion awarding a contract for $47,912 to Haas Paving Company, Inc. for the
1988 Sidewalk Improvements project along Cimarron Boulevard, Rockford Drive
and Annaville Elementary School.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
9. ORDINANCE NO. 20540
CLOSING THE HEARING ON STREET IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING STREETS: 1988
Sidewalk Program - 1. Cimarron Road, west side only, from North Washam
Drive to Saratoga Boulevard, 2. Annaville Elementary School from the school
playground entrance on the south side to Turkey Creek Drive, and 3.
Rockford Drive, north side only, from the West Oso School parking lot east
to Lot 34, Block 3, of the Westhaven Terrace, Unit 3 Subdivision; AND
FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT PROPERTY ABUTTING SAID STREETS WILL BE
SPECIFICALLY BENEFITTED AND ENHANCED IN VALUE IN EXCESS OF COST OF THE
IMPROVEMENTS AND LEVYING AN ASSESSMENT AND ADOPTING AN ASSESSMENT ROLL; AND
DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Guerrero, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
10. M88-0274
Motion awarding a contract for $599,999.99 to Haas Paving Company, Inc. for
the Hampshire/Yale Street Improvements.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
11. ORDINANCE NO. 20541
CLOSING THE HEARING ON STREET IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING STREETS:
Hampshire Road and Yale Street - 1. Hampshire Road, from Benys Road to
North Padre Island Drive, 2. Yale Street, from Prescott Street to Vestal
Street, 3. Vestal Street, from Yale Street to Sherman Street, and 4. Vitemb
Street, from Sherman Street to Horne Road; AND FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT
PROPERTY ABUTTING SAID STREETS WILL BE SPECIFICALLY BENEFITTED AND ENHANCED
IN VALUE IN EXCESS OF COST OF THE IMPROVEMENTS AND LEVYING AN ASSESSMENT
AND ADOPTING AN ASSESSMENT ROLL; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Guerrero, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing,
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
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12. SECOND READING
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LA MER CONDOMINIUM FOR
LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENTS AT THE INTERSECTION OF PARK STREET AND UPPER
BROADWAY.
The foregoing Ordinance was passed on second reading by the following vote:
Turner, Guerrero, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
14. ORDINANCE NO. 20542
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A USE PRIVILEGE AGREEMENT WITH E. R. SCHENDEL
AS COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIAN FOR THE ESTATE OF ANNA McCAMPBELL FORE, OWNER
OF LOT 5A, BLOCK 11, BEACH PORTION, TO ALLOW THE INSTALLATION OF AN
OVERHEAD BUILDING AWNING ABOVE THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY OF PEOPLES STREET.
The foregoing Ordinance was passed on third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Guerrero, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
In reference to Item No. 3 relative to the Approval of the RSVP Action
Grant, Council Member Slavik stated that this is an excellent program; she
inquired about the use of $108,828; and if the volunteers are paid.
Assistant City Manager Hennings responded by stating that the volunteers
are not paid in salaries, but are reimbursed for their mileage to and from work.
He noted that there is a staff who administers the program and a van is
available to transport the people to the worksites. Mr. Hennings offered an
explanation of the volunteer and crisis programs.
Relative to Item No. 4 pertaining to the Whitecap Wastewater Treatment
Plant Expansion, Council Member Slavik inquired about the time frame for the
expansion, and Assistant City Manager Jesus Garza responded that two hundred
days will be required for construction of the improvements. He noted that the
plant is at 90 percent of the hydraulic capacity and the City should move
forward with the expansion.
Council Member Strong pointed out that the City could not proceed with the
expansion until the PIIC settlement was completed. She commended the staff for
moving forward as soon as they obtained the clearance to begin the project.
Relative to Item No. 13 on Amending Chapter 4 and 26 of the Standard Fire
Prevention Code, Council Member Slavik inquired if the City should not charge
for the inspections as a matter of public safety, and City Manager Garza
indicated that is possible and noted that most cities have gone to some fees for
services. He stated that there is a very definite cost involved and that the
City will try to find alternatives for sources of funding to provide the same
services. Mr. Garza pointed out that the City has cut back considerably and
that this is a legitimate way of financing City government.
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Council Member Strong pointed out that a large number of these hospitals
and nursing homes are for-profit organizations, noting that even though it is a
good service, they are in it for a profit.
Mayor Turner inquired if the owners of the nursing homes have been made
aware of the ordinance, and Fire Chief Adame replied in the affirmative and
stated that the Fire Marshall has notified hospitals and nursing homes of the
new permit fee schedule.
There were no comments from the audience on Items 3, 4 or 13.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
3. M88-0268
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit an
application to and execute a contract with ACTION for the continuance of
the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. The total budget for RSVP for
1989-90 is $101,828. This reflects a required City match of $47,583;
$41,685 in ACTION funds and $12,560 from the Texas Department on Aging.
The total City contribution of $47,583 has been included in the 1988-89
City budget.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
4. M88-0268
Motion awarding contracts for $548,000 to Peerless Contractors for
improvements to the Whitecap Wastewater Treatment Plant and for $57,275 to
King -Isles, Inc. for the replacement of a bulkhead at the Whitecap Plant as
part of the Whitecap Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
13. SECOND READING
AMENDING THE STANDARD FIRE PREVENTION CODE, 1985 EDITION, ADOPTED BY
ORDINANCE NO. 19590, BY AMENDING CHAPTER 4, PERMITS AND CERTIFICATES BY
ADDING SECTIONS 402.32, HOSPITALS AND NURSING HOMES, AND 402.33, DAY CARE
FACILITIES, AND BY AMENDING SECTION 401.13.1, PERMIT REQUIRED; AND AMENDING
CHAPTER 26, FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING, BY AMENDING
SECTION 2602.2, NOTIFICATION OF FUMIGATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND
PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance was passed on second reading by the following vote:
Turner, Guerrero, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye."
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* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Items 15 and 16.
Relative to Item No. 15 on the Resolution Accepting the Donation of twin
Jalufka Houses, the Mew House and the Chris Yung House, Assistant City Manager
Utter presented background information and indicated that this is a very
generous donation by the Woods family and Woods estate. Mr. Utter briefly
described the houses and noted that the City is proposing to accept the houses
and to remove them on a temporary basis to three lots purchased behind Heritage
Park.
Mr. Utter continued by stating that presently there are not any groups
ready to restore the homes, but the City is working towards a program which
would provide restoration of the structures into shops and/or restaurants
immediately behind Heritage Park. He stated that the guidelines have not been
establed but the City will attempt to get a for-profit or non-profit
organization to operate the shops. Mr. Utter indicated that the actual moving
of the structures will cost in the range of $8,000 to $12,000; it will be a City
cost; and the actual rehabilitation of the structures could be from $40,000 to
$100,000 per structure. Mr. Utter continued by stating that to move all the
houses and fix them up properly would probably cost in the range of $350,000.
Council Member Slavik indicated that she is in favor of preserving the
buildings but expressed concern about the cost, and Mr. Utter stated that there
is a rehabilitation program under the Community Development Block Grant Program
which has about $8 million worth of assets, and that is principally where the
rehabilitation money for the individual structures has come from. He noted that
the City would participate in the rehabilitation loan, and the organization
would be responsible for the exterior maintenance, utilities, etc. Mr. Utter
stated that the City needs to move the structures onto City property so that the
properties can be adequately preserved.
Council Members Pruet and Rhodes spoke in support of this issue, noting
that it would add significantly to the Heritage Park area.
Mayor Turner suggested that Mr. Woods be invited to
receive recognition of appreciation from the City Council.
Relative to Item No. 16 pertaining
Associated with the Industrial Technology
that the Industrial Park was established
platting ordinance, and it has made a
executed.
a Council Meeting to
to an Agreement for Development Fees
Park, City Manager Garza indicated
prior to some changes in the City's
change under which the contract was
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Assistant City Manager Utter provided some background information and
stated that the Industrial Technology Park was a joint venture between the
City, the Industrial Foundation and the old Industrial Commission, and it was
designed to create some property at a very reasonable price for industrial uses.
He stated that some of the property has been sold; they want to sell some more;
and the platting ordinance has been changed. Mr. Utter indicated that the
platting fees cannot be waived and the City will allow them to take this as a
credit against future development fees which is part of the original contract.
Mr. John Crutchfield, a representative of the CC Industrial Park and the
Industrial Foundation, stated that the Foundation agreed to spend a total of
$325,000 towards the development and the City would spend the additional money
required for the development. He indicated that the Foundation and Park
purchased the land; in Phase I, the Park and the Foundation spent $150,000;
and they are obligated to spend a total of $175,000 towards the development of
Phase II. Mr. Crutchfield indicated that the proposed agreement requires the
Foundation and the Park to pay the platting fees, and that would be credited
against the $175,000 second phase contribution.
Council Member Moss inquired if the fees could be waived without setting a
precedent, and City Manager Garza reponded by stating that it would set a
precedent, and the appropriate way to waive it would be to change the Ordinance.
He stated that he does not recommend that.
In answer to a question from Mr. Moss, Mr. Crutchfield indicated that the
reason they proceeded with the Park in 1980 was because the Harris Corporation
indicated they were interested in Corpus Christi and would purchase a 22 -acre
site. He stated there is a deed restriction that if the site is not built on
within two or three years, it has to be sold back to the Park or Foundation. He
stated that the Harris Corporation decided against building, and this is the
22 -acre tract which will be subdivided to fit Federal Express into the location.
Mr. Crutchfield indicated that they are not pleased about spending their money,
but would agree to do so if it is credited toward their future obligation of
$175,000. He pointed out that the City does have an obligation to complete the
development and develop Phase II.
In regard to a question from Mayor Turner about the eligibility
requirements, Mr. Crutchfield indicated that they have not changed the
architectural restrictions but have given exceptions for Blue Bell Ice Cream and
Federal Express. He stated that they will waive some of the individual
restrictions on an individual basis.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
15. RESOLUTION NO. 20544
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A GIFT AGREEMENT TO ACCEPT THE DONATION OF THE
TWIN JALUFKA HOUSES, THE MEW HOUSE, AND THE CHRIS YUNG HOUSE.
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The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Berlanga,
Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye"; Guerrero and Schwing
absent at the time the vote was taken.
16. FIRST READING
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE
INDUSTRIAL PARK FOR DEVELOPMENT FEES ASSOCIATED WITH
TECHNOLOGY PARK.
The foregoing Ordinance was passed on first reading by the
Turner, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong
Guerrero and Schwing absent at the time the vote was taken.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
CORPUS CHRISTI
THE INDUSTRIAL
following vote:
voting, "Aye";
Mayor Turner opened the paving assessment hearing for the Airline Road
Improvements, Phase I, indicating assessments of $181,656.71 on 33 items.
City Attorney Hal George stated that this hearing is required by Article
1105-B of VACS which specifies that the City must prove that the property
involved will be enhanced at least in the amount of the assessments. He called
as his first witness Mr. Carl Crull.
Through questioning of Mr. Crull, Mr. George determined that he is the
Acting Director of Engineering Services for the City of Corpus Christi; he has
been employed by the City for nine years; he is a registered professional
engineer in the state of Texas; he has a degree in Civil Engineering; and he is
familiar with the project.
Mr. Crull testified that the project provides improvements to Airline Road,
from Wooldridge Road to Holly Road; Cimarron Boulevard, from Wooldridge Road to
Airline Road; Misty Meadow Road, from Cimarron Boulevard northwest for 438
linear feet to existing improvements. He explained the current system and the
improvements, noting that they will provide more direct access to the properties
to the south. He stated that the project will improve the traffic circulation
and drainage in the area. Mr. Crull noted that the time for completion of this
project will be 240 working days.
Mr. George called as his next witness Mr.
expert testimony on the assessment roll.
Mr. George questioned Mr. Paraskevas and
estate broker; he has a broker and real estate
commercial and residential property.
George Paraskevas to provide his
ascertained that he is a real
license; and he appraises both
Mr. Paraskevas stated that he has examined the properties and the
assessment roll and, in his opinion, all of the property will be enhanced at
least in the amount of the assessments.
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In answer to a question from Council Member Slavik, Mr. Crull indicated that
the funds for the improvements will come from the 1986 Bond Program.
Threre were no objections from the audience.
A motion was made by Council Member Strong to close the public hearing;
seconded by Council Member Pruet and passed; Guerrero and Schwing absent at the
time the vote was taken.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
17. ORDINANCE NO. 20544
CLOSING THE HEARING ON STREET IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE FOLLOWING STREETS:
Airline Road - 1. Airline Road, from Wooldridge Road to Holly Road, 2.
Cimarron Road, from Wooldridge Road to Airline Road, and 3. Misty Meadow
Road, from Cimarron Road northwest for 438 Linear Feet to the existing
improvements; AND FINDING AND DETERMINING THAT PROPERTY ABUTTING SAID
STREETS WILL BE SPECIFICALLY BENEFITTED AND ENHANCED IN VALUE IN EXCESS OF
COST OF THE IMPROVEMENTS AND LEVYING AN ASSESSMENT AND ADOPTING AN
ASSESSMENT ROLL; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong
voting, "Aye"; Guerrero and Schwing absent at the time the vote was taken.
M88-0276
Awarding a contract for $1,523,233.73 to Bay, Inc. for the Airline Road
Improvements from Holly Road to Wooldridge Road.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Berlanga, Moss,
Pruet, Rhodes, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye"; Guerrero and Schwing absent
at the time the vote was taken.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Council went into closed session relative to a legal question on Item
No. 18 pursuant to Article 6252-17 of the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Mayor Turner reconvened the Council Meeting and opened the public hearing
on the temporary closure of the public right-of-way of Holly Road west of Flour
Bluff Drive known as the Holly Road Extension.
There were no comments from the Council Members or audience.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Guerrero to close the public hearing;
seconded by Council Member Moss and passed unanimously.
-'ir-- .-ten—.
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City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
motion was passed:
18. M88-0276
Motion authorizing the temporary closure of the public right-of-way of
Holly Road from Flour Bluff Drive westward to its dead end at Oso Bay which
provides for access for adjacent property owners.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Guerrero,
Berlanga, Moss, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing, Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner opened the public hearing on the closure and abandonment of 10
public alleys in the Allen School Area, including Blocks 1, 2 and 4, in Hughes
Addition and Blocks 903, 1003, 1103, 1203, 1303, 1403, and 1503 in Fitchue
Place.
Carl Crull, Acting Director of Engineering Services, indicated that during
the design work on the Allen School area street improvements, it was discovered
that there were a number of dedicated and unopened alleys in the area. He
noted that all of the alleys shown are not in use and are not paved. Mr. Crull
noted that these alleys are recommended for closure so that they can revert back
to the abutting property owners. He stated that staff recommends that the
utility easements be retained where appropriate. He indicated that
notifications were sent to all the property owners and no adverse comments were
received.
Council Member Berlanga inquired if the closing of alleys will be a general
trend, and Mr. Crull responded by stating that several years ago, the City had a
policy of considering the alleys in the area as part of a street improvement
program associated with the CDBG program and closing those alleys which were not
in use. He indicated that the City became lax in doing that and would like to
reinstate that procedure. Mr. Crull continued by stating that curbs and gutters
will be constructed across the entrance as part of the street improvements. He
stated that staff has surveyed the area, and there is no traffic evident in the
alleys.
Mr. J. R. Keeling, 611 Tancahua Street, stated that some of the alleys are
in use, elaborating on two of the alleys. Mr. Keeling stated that he has never
known the City to close ten City blocks at one time and indicated that the
notice he received did not mention reserving the utility easements. Mr. Keeling
expressed concern regarding the alley closings and posed some objections,
specifically pertaining to utility easements.
Mr. Crull stated that in regard to the utility easements, with the
exception of the three blocks in the Hughes additions, the rest of these
utilities are in the street right-of-way in the front, noting that the City is
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discouraging rear utilities. In reference to the alleys near Ayers, Mr. Crull
noted that when the City does the improvements, if an owner wants the alleys
open, the City will work with the owner. Mr. Crull indicated that staff will
check out the alleys again.
In answer to a question from Council Member Berlanga relative to new
utility lines being installed, Mr. Crull stated that the City contacted the
utilities and requested an evaluation of their systems, and if it was felt that
the system is in need of replacement, it would be included in the street
reconstruction work. Mr. Crull indicated that if there are undeveloped
properties which do not have utilities on them, they will run a sanitary tap to
the property line.
A motion was made by Council Member Slavik to close the public hearing;
seconded by Council Member Strong and passed unanimously; Guerrero absent at the
time the vote was taken.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
Ordinance was passed on first reading:
19. FIRST READING
CLOSING AND ABANDONING 10 PUBLIC ALLEYS,
AND 1103 AND ALL OF BLOCKS 1003, 1203,
PLACE, AND BLOCKS 1, 2, AND 4 OF THE
PROVISIONS BELOW; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on first
Turner, Berlanga, Pruet, Rhodes, Schwing,
Moss voting, "No"; Guerrero absent at the
INCLUDING PORTIONS OF BLOCKS 903
1303, 1403, AND 1503 IN FITCHUE
HUGHES ADDITION, SUBJECT TO THE
reading by the following vote:
Slavik and Strong voting, "Aye";
time the vote was taken.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for the City Manager's report.
City Manager Garza referred to the amendment passed by the Council relative
to Workers Compensation and briefly explained the rehabilitation program offered
to employees who are disabled on the job. Mr. Garza indicated that it is a new
program for the City; it has been very successful; and it will save the City
money in the long run.
Council Member Moss referred to Item No. 1 of the City Manager's report
relative to the Solid Waste Management Master Plan and inquired about the range
of funds, and Assistant City Manager Jesus Garza noted that it is in the
$100,000 range, and the City is in the midst of negotiations.
In answer to a question from Mr. Moss, Assistant City Manager Garza noted
that in terms of the scope which the consultant would undertake would be to
provide the City a blueprint of their solid waste collection and disposal system
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and where the City needs to be moving. The issue of whether the landfills
should be operated by the City or the landowner is not under consideration.
Council Member Moss suggested it could be included in the scope and
commented on a wastewater conference he recently attended.
City Manager Garza indicated that he had one direct experience relative to
privatized landfill, and it was very negative and costly to the City. He stated
that the intention of the study is to help the City with strategies on how to
deal with solid waste in the future.
City Manager Garza referred to a report provided the Council on the Capital
Improvements Program and encouraged the Council to read it.
Mr. Garza reported on improvements under consideration at the Marina and
stated that on January 3, the Council will be presented plans and funding needs
relative to the Marina.
In answer to a question from Council Member Moss, Mr. Garza stated that the
design is presently being done for the piling repairs. He stated that by the
time the bonds are sold, the engineering work will be complete. Mr. Crull
indicated that some construction on the pilings will be evident in the next
calendar year, and a report and a schedule will be provided to the Council.
Mayor Turner inquired about the final disposition on the Courthouse, and
City Manager Garza indicated that he has asked City Attorney George and
Assistant City Manager Elizondo to put together an appropriate process and a
time frame in which the City could accomplish the demolition of that building.
Mr. Garza indicated that it would take about $10 million to restore the building
and stated that the Council will be provided a report.
Council Member Moss inquired if the tax lien papers have been served on the
present owner, and City Attorney George replied in the affirmative.
Mayor Turner briefly commented on a celebration relative to the courtyard
improvements at Heritage Park.
Mayor Turner commended the Parks and Recreation Department for their gift
certificate program.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for petitions from the audience on matters not
scheduled on the agenda.
Mr. John Talbot, 829 Egyptian Drive, presented and read a letter to the
Council from Mr. Jim Howry, President of the Pharaoh Valley Neighborhood
Association relative to the Oso Water Reclamation Plant Foul and Hazardous Odor
1
inutes
Regular Council Meeting
December 20, 1988
Page 14
Emission. Mr. Talbot referred to funds in the Capital Budget of $575,000. He
stated that $339,000 has been spent from that total leaving some balance, and in
the event there is not sufficient capital to handle the odor problem, that funds
be made available from the maintenance or expense account. Mr. Talbot indicated
he has talked to the superintendent about these improvements and has been
informed that these improvements are being included in the Oso plant expansion.
Various Council Members expressed concern regarding this issue, and
Assistant City Manager Jesus Garza indicated that he has asked Victor Medina to
develop a plan of action on how to address the odor issue. Mr. Garza indicated
that there are issues that need to be addressed, noting that a plan of action is
needed at each of the plants. He stated that staff will prepare a report for
the Council by mid-January of the options regarding the odor problem. Mr. Garza
stated that there is simply not enough bond funds to address all the issues and
staff will evaluate the options and the funding.
Mr. Philip Rosenstein, 949 Bobalo, referred to a recent article in the
local newspaper and commented on statements made by Council Member Moss and
Mayor Turner. Mr. Rosenstein stated that better communication is needed by the
public and the City Council.
Ms. Angelita J. Cole, 4613 Kirkwood, spoke about the need for the City to
have a Consumer Advocacy Agency Office and stated that people are being taken
advantage of, and Mayor Turner indicated that the City will consider this issue.
Mr. Jose D. Ramos, 414 No. Chaparral, spoke in Spanish and complained about
the lack of restroom facilities and drinking water at the bayfront area.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner recessed the Council Meeting at 4:20 p.m. to go into closed
session pursuant to Article 6252-17, Section 2(e) and (f), of V.A.C.S. to
discuss several items.
Mayor Turner reconvened the Council Meeting at 4:40 p.m. and there being no
further business to come before the Council, she adjourned the Council Meeting
at 4:40 p.m. on December 20, 1988.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
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 December
20, 1988 which were approved by the City Council on January 3, 1989.
19 )JITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 7 day of
etty Tgtjner, MAYOR
Jc
Seer
Armando Chapa, City y
City of Corpus Christi