HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 05/30/1989PRESENT
Mayor Betty Turner
Mayor Pro Tem Clif Moss
Council Members:
David Berlanga, Sr.
Leo Guerrero
Tom Hunt
Edward A. Martin
Joe McComb
Mary Rhodes
Frank Schwing *
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 30, 1989
2:20 p.m.
City Manager Juan Garza
City Attorney Hal George
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Mayor Turner called the meeting to order at 2:20 p.m. in the Council
Chamber of City Hall.
The invocation
which the Pledge of
Council Member Frank
City Secretary
necessary quorum of
to conduct the meetin
was delivered by Council Member David Berlanga following
Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by
Schwing.
Armando Chapa called the roll and verified that the
the Council and the required charter officers were present
Mayor Turner called for approval of the Minutes of the Regular Council
Meeting of May 23, 1989 and there being no additions or corrections, she
proclaimed them approved as presented.
Mayor Turner presented a Proclamation to Mr. Mike Gordon, Acting Director
of the Park & Recreation Department, designating June 4-10,1989, as "Learn to
Swim Week."
Mayor Turner recognized Ms. Pinky Brauer, President of the City Council PTA
Task Force on Teenage Drug and Alcohol Use. Ms. Brauer and other
representatives of the organization gave brief reports concerning their
organization and related topics. A booklet of the organization's study on local
teenage drug and alcohol use/abuse was distributed, and Mayor Turner indicated
that this booklet would be forwarded to Ms. Jean Newberry who is on the
Intergovernmental Commission on Drug and Alcohol Abuse.
* Council Member Schwing arrived at 2:30 p.m.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
MICROFILMED
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 2
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Consent Motions, Resolutions,
Ordinances and Ordinances from previous meetings on Items 1 thru 5 and Council
Members requested that Items 2, 3 and 5 be withheld for discussion.
There were no comments from the audience on the other items.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
1. M89-0136
Motion approving a supply agreement for sodium chlorite solution with Rio
Linda Chemical Company based on the low bid of $333,200. The term of the
contract 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. The chemical will be used by the Water Division for
treatment of our water supply.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga,
Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
4. M89-0139
Motion approving the request of the Texas Jazz Festival Society that
payment in the amount of $8,912.82 owed the City for services during the
1988 Jazz Festival be deferred until August 1, 1989.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga,
Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Relative to Item No. 2 on the Broadmoor Park Senior Citizens Center,
Council Member Berlanga inquired as to the location of the proposed site of the
center, and City Manager Garza responded that a map would be provided.
Relative to Item No. 3 on the McKinzie Road - Haven to I.H. 37,
McKinzie/Leopard Area Drainage, Mayor Turner expressed concern as to the
selection process used to award contracts and also the fact that the company
selected was not a local company.
City Manager Garza explained that S.A. Garza, Engineers, Inc., the San
Antonio based company recommended for award of contract for this project, does
have a local office with O. B. Etheridge.
Following the discussion on the foregoing issue, Council Member Guerrero
made a motion to approve the contract on a contingency basis providing that 75
percent of the engineering work will be completed locally and that this data be
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Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 3
documented. The motion was seconded by Council Member Martin and passed
unanimously.
Relative to Item No. 5 concerning the Firemen's Advisory Committee, Mayor
Pro Tem Moss questioned the need for the extension of time which is being
requested, and City Manager Garza explained that granting the extension of time
would not cause any problems.
There were no comments from the audience on Items 2, 3 and 5.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were passed:
2. M89-0137
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $193,000 to Progressive
Structures, Inc. for the construction of the Broadmoor Park Senior
Citizens' Center located on Tarlton Street and Wayside Drive.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga,
Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
3. M89-0138
Motion approving an engineering services contract with S.A. Garza
Engineers, Inc. for design of improvements to McKinzie Road from Haven
Drive to I.H. 37 for a fee not to exceed $162,200 and for design of
drainage improvements for the McKinzie/Leopard area for a fee not to exceed
$40,000, subject to the stipulation that 75 percent of the work must be
completed locally, and that this data be documented.
The foregoing motion, as amended above, passed by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
5. RESOLUTION NO. 20681
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 20574 BY EXTENDING THE DATE FOR COMPLETION OF THE
FIREMEN'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE'S WORK AND DISSOLUTION OF THE COMMITTEE UNTIL
JUNE I, 1990.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner then called for consideration of Items 6 thru 12 and a Council
Member requested that Item No. 6 be withheld for discussion.
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Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 4
City Secretary Chapa informed the Council that Council Member Martin has
submitted a Conflict of Interest Affidavit on Item No. 7 and will abstain from
discussing or voting on the item.
There were no comments from the audience on the other items.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
were approved:
7. ORDINANCE NO. 20683
CLOSING THE HEARING ON STREET IMPROVEMENTS ON THE FOLLOWING STREETS: South
Staples Street, from Saratoga Boulevard to Oso Creek; FIXING A LIEN AND
CHARGE, THE MANNER AND TIME OF PAYMENT AND COLLECTION; AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENCY.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, McComb, Rhodes and
Schwing voting, "Aye"; Martin abstaining.
8. ORDINANCE NO. 20684
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A ONE-YEAR LEASE AGREEMENT WITH CONQUEST
AIRLINES FOR SPACE AT CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT; AND DECLARING
AN EMERGENCY.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing Ordinance passed by the
following vote: Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb,
Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
9. FIRST READING
CLOSING AND ABANDONING A 20 -FOOT WIDE PUBLIC ALLEY BEING IN BLOCK 1,
HILLSIDE ADDITION, AND BLOCK 2, YOUNG ADDITION, SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS
BELOW; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
10. FIRST READING
CLOSING AND ABANDONING A 10 -FOOT WIDE PUBLIC ALLEY IN BLOCK 13 OF HOME
PLACE ADDITION, SUBJECT TO RETAINING THE ENTIRE ALLEY AS A PUBLIC UTILITIES
EASEMENT.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 5
11. FIRST READING
OPENING KNICKERBOCKER STREET, A THRU STREET FROM WALDRON ROAD TO CLINE
STREET, IN BLOCKS A AND B, ISLAND BUSINESS CENTER, UNIT 1.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
12. ORDINANCE NO. 20685
AMENDING THE CITY CODE, CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, DIVISION 15, SENIOR
COMMUNITY SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE, BY AMENDING SECTION 2-173, DUTIES,
TO PROVIDE FOR APPOINTING A SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE;
PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Relative to Item No. 6 on the U.S. Highway 181 Illumination System, City
Manager Garza, in response to questions asked, answered that funding for this
project is being obtained from bond funds and that upon completion, any
remaining funds would be reimbursed to the City; conversely, should a shortage
exist, the City would pay their pro rata share of the deficit.
There were no questions from the audience on Item No. 6.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
Resolution was passed:
6. RESOLUTION NO. 20682
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF
HIGHWAYS AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR THE CITY'S PARTICIPATION IN THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A ROADWAY ILLUMINATION SYSTEM FROM THE SOUTH END OF THE
NUECES BAY CAUSEWAY TO BURLESON STREET ON U.S. HIGHWAY 181.
The foregoing Resolution passed by the following vote: Turner, Moss,
Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner called for consideration of Item No. 13 regarding the
recommendation to execute a contract with Nueces County for the collection of
the City's Ad Valorem Taxes, and City Manager Garza requested that an amendment
be added to this motion authorizing him to continue to negotiate a contract with
the Count?, since County Judge Robert Barnes has some concerns about the
contract already prepared.
utes
gular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 6
Discussion ensued as a series of specific questions were asked by several
Council Members, and City Manager Garza responded to their questions. One issue
raised was the savings which would be realized because of the consolidation.
City Manager Garza informed the Council that a savings would not be realized in
the first year of operation, but would be realized in the ensuing years.
The following amended motion was made by Council Member Guerrero; seconded
by Council Member Rhodes and passed unanimously.
13. 1489-0140
Motion approving in concept tax consolidation with County, through its Tax
Assessor Collector, for the Collection of the City's ad valorem taxes and
directing the City Manager to work out the terms of the tontract to be
approved by the City Council.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Relative to Item No. 14, intensive deliberations ensued regarding the 15th
Year Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and Residential
Anti -Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan.
During the preceding discussion, Council Member Rhodes stated that she
would support the allocation of funds for the Boys' and Girls' Club provided
that the money designated for the club would be placed in escrow until the
club's Internal Revenue problems are resolved. Council Member Guerrero
concurred.
Council Member Hunt stated that he would like to withdraw the motion which
he made during the Corpus Christi Housing Improvement Corporation meeting
requesting that the Frost Brothers Building be given to the Heart of Corpus
Christi in lieu of CDBG funding.
A motion was made by Council Member Guerrero that the CDBG allocations be
approved as shown on the 15th Year CDBG Work Sheet attached to the back of the
minutes, with several changes which he proposed. The motion was seconded by
Council Member Schwing and passed by the following vote: Berlanga, Guerrero,
Martin, Schwing, Moss, and Turner voting, "Aye"; Hunt, Rhodes, and McComb
voting, "No."
14- M89-0141
Motion adopting the 15th Year Community Block Grant (CDBG) Program and the
Residential Anti -Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan and
authorizing the City Manager to execute and submit appropriate documents to
the Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner recessed the Council Meeting at 4:25 p.m.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 7
Mayor Turner reconvened the Council Meeting and announced the paving
assessment hearing for the Ayers Street improvements from Norton Street to Santa
Fe Street which includes assessments in the amount of $353,817.23 on 85 pieces
of property.
City Attorney Hal George explained the procedures and stated that the
hearing is required by Article 1105-B of VACS which requires that the City prove
that the property assessed 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
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 with a degree in Civil Engineering.
Mr. Crull described the project, stating that the street will be
reconstructed with 6" standard curb and gutter sections and will be 62 feet or
48 feet in width within the existing right-of-way. He informed the Council that
four foot or wider reinforced concrete sidewalks will be constructed and six
inch thick reinforced concrete driveways will be included in the project. He
stated that bus stop lanes will also be included as a part of the street
project.
Mr. Crull continued by stating that the assessment rates have been
calculated in accordance with the City's current assessment policy based on the
low bid prices submitted by King Isles Construction Company, Inc. for the total
bid price of $2,432,000. He noted that the City's portion of the project will
be $2,078,182.77. Mr. Crull also stated that Smith and Russo Engineering firm
prepared the plans and specifications for the project; King Isles Construction
Company, Inc. will have 360 working days in which to complete the project; but
one of the concerns of many of the property owners included in the project is
the planned elimination of head -in parking which the City usually eliminates or
converts to parallel parking. He stated that the reason for this is that the
traffic volumes on Ayers Street are increasing which makes the head -in parking a
safety hazard and reduces the capacity of the street. He stated that along
Ayers Street, there are approximately 200 head -in parking spaces, including some
at Wynn Seale Junior High School. He explained that the staff feels that the
primary purpose of this project is to improve the condition of the street, the
drainage in the area and provide safer and better driving conditions. Mr. Crull
also explained that if the property owner desires to pay for it and if there is
room, the staff will direct that parallel parking can be installed in lieu of
the head -in parking.
Council Member Rhodes questioned how the parking could be eliminated
without compensating the property owners. She stated that it was her
understanding that off-street parking would be installed on City property in the
area.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 8
Assistant City Manager Jesus Garza explained that all of those ideas were
discussed and the conclusion was reached that the parking should be eliminated,
and Mr. Crull stated that the Council has always had the policy of installing
sidewalks as a part of the projects for street improvements.
Mr. Crull then displayed pictures of the Ayers Street project area
including the areas that have off-street parking. He stated that all of the
funding for the project will be provided from the sale of bonds.
City Attorney George called as his next witness, Mr. George Paraskevas.
Through questioning of Mr. Paraskevas, Mr. George determined that he is a real
estate broker and appraiser; he has been appraising both commercial and
residential property for seventeen years; and Mr. Paraskevas testified that he
is familiar with the project; he has examined each parcel and the assessment
roll and is familiar with the project and the amounts proposed to be charged.
Mr. George inquired df Mr. Paraskevas if in his opinion, each parcel along
the street improvement project would be enhanced at least in the amount of the
assessment.
Mr. Paraskevas stated that most of them would be but he would like to
recommend that full credit be given for existing sidewalks for parcels listed on
the assessment roll as Item Nos. 29, 45, 51, 53 and 69. He stated that he would
also like to recommend that 25 percent credit be given for existing sidewalks
that are in fair condition on the items listed as Nos. 10, 11, 12, 20, 39, 40,
41, 42, 46, 54, 56, 62, 63, 64, 65, 70 and 71. Mr. Paraskevas continued by
stating that, in his opinion, all of the other parcels will be enhanced at least
in the amount of the assessment.
Council Member Schwing inquired as to how many businesses will be affected
as a result of the project, and Mr. Paraskevas stated that there are 85 items on
the roll and it was his understanding that about thirty of them are businesses.
Council Member Schwing continued by inquiring
businesses .that are concerned about the elimination of
Mr. Crull replied that twenty-eight property owners
parking eliminated and of that twenty-eight, six or
alternative parking.
as to the number of
the head -in parking, and
will have their head -in
seven do not have any
Mayor Turner called for comments from the members of the audience.
Mr. Bill Rayburn, 1911 Ayers Street, presented a petition to the Council
containing thirty signatures of property owners who are in opposition to the
elimination of head -in parking. He expressed the opinion that he and the other
property owners feel that the elimination of head -in parking will be very
detrimental to their business.
Speaking on behalf of her mother, Mrs. Norma Johnston, and several other
property owners, was Mrs. Rosemary Fahey, 1033 Harrison. She stated that the
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Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 9
amount of the assessment is excessive and her mother will be unable to afford
it. She explained that her mother owns South Texas Heating and Air Conditioning
and the assessment is very high even though Mr. Paraskevas recommended a twenty-
five percent credit for the existing sidewalks.
Mrs. Dorothy Spann, 502 Del Mar Street, stated that she shops in the area
of Ayers Street. She questioned the statements by the staff that the traffic is
beginning to be heavy on Ayers Street and they anticipate a greater traffic flow
in the future. She stated that the only congestion on the street is at the
intersection of Eighteenth Street where ButterKrust Bakery is located. She
stated that the property owners who own small businesses are primarily concerned
with the elimination of head -in parking and she concurred with that because
shopping is much easier if the customers know that they will have a good parking
place in front of the business.
Mr. Rix Musslewhite, 5808 Wicklow, expressed the opinion that it would be a
mistake to eliminate the parking on Ayers Street and force drivers to park on
the residential streets.
Mr. Jack Cooper, 611 Del Mar, a representative of the Del Mar Neighborhood
Association, stated that they have been working very hard to rebuild their
neighborhood and support businesses in that area. He stated that they have
discussed with the RTA the possibility of restoring the Six Points bus change
area, and although the association would like to see the streets improved, they
also would like to see the small businesses survive. He suggested that this
plan be delayed until a plan could be worked out for the Six Points area and the
surrounding property.
Mr. Charles Nichols, 3141 Gollihar, stated that he did not own any property
or businesses on Ayers Street, but as a small business owner, he understood the
people's concerns.
The following owners of small businesses located on Ayers Street objected
to the elimination of head -in parking: Mr. Doug Grover, 1306 Ayers Street; Mrs.
Carol Brunner, 1306 Ayers, the owner of an animal grooming business; Mr. A. T.
Ogg, 1811-21 Ayers Street, the owner of an antique store; Mrs. Virginia Garza,
1800 Ayers Street, the owner of Garza Electrical Motor Service; Mr. Henry
Gutierrez, owner of Henry's Rental Company at 2302 Ayers Street; Mr. Paul
Shamoon, owner of a business at 1808 Ayers Street; Mr. Tom Templeton, 4814 Ayers
Street; and Mr. Joseph A. Allen, whose father's property at 3422 Ayers Street is
leased to Professional Transmission Service.
One other citizen speaking in opposition to the elimination of head -in
parking was Mr. Claude D'Unger, 201 Del Mar Street, who agreed that the loss of
head -in parking equates with the loss of business. He stated that if the
Council approves this plan, many property owners will have to go out of
business.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 10
A motion was made by Council Member Guerrero that the hearing be closed;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Moss and passed unanimously.
Council Member McComb stated that he had heard for years that Ayers Street
was badly in need of improvements. He inquired about the alternative and if it
would be preferable to have a three -lane street or just allow the street to
deteriorate.
Mr. Crull explained that staff estimates that improvements would greatly
improve the conditions of the street; improve the drainage; and provide better
driving surface for all citizens in the City. He stated that the only option
would be to build the same narrow street in existence now and the only advantage
to that plan would be to improve the condition of the street. He pointed out
that this street improvement project was a separate line item included in the
1986 Bond Program which was adopted by a majority of the voters.
Council Member Martin agreed that the situation is rather frustrating
because he was aware that the staff has designed this street according to City
standards, but he was of the opinion that it would be well worthwhile if the
staff investigated the possibility of resurfacing Ayers Street, improve the
drainage, and leave the narrow street as it is. He pointed out that this would
at least make the driving surface better. He stated that following this
alternate plan might allow a savings of $1 million in the bond fund. He stated
that he would like to give the staff as long as thirty days to come back with
some alternatives. He indicated that he would place this in the form of a
motion. The motion was seconded by Council Member Hunt.
Assistant City Manager Jesus Garza stated that thirty days should be enough
time to prepare a plan for resurfacing the street. He pointed out, however,
that there are several other streets that are in the process of being designed
which will have the same type of problem and on which head -in parking will also
be eliminated.
Mayor Turner called for the vote on the motion and it passed unanimously.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Turner announced the public hearing on the Central Power & Light
Company rate request. She noted that the City staff recommends that the Council
adopt the rate increase for Central Power & Light Company recommended by
Diversified Utility Consultants, Inc. rather than the increase requested by
CP&L.
City Attorney George explained the procedures to be followed which is in
accordance with the schedule sent to the Council from the City Manager. Mr.
George explained that the CP&L General Manager, Mr. Dick Bremer, will address
the Council first, followed by a presentation by the City's consultant, Mr. Don
Butler. He stated that following these two presentations, members of the
audience will be allowed to provide comments, following which a vote on the
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Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 11
first reading of the ordinance adopting the rate increase recommended by the
consultants will be considered.
Mr. George then provided background information on the presentation of the
company's request for an increase in revenues of $157,554,732. He informed the
Council that the Public Utility Commission will probably be the final authority
on the request. He then referred to various reports presented to the Council
prepared by Butler and Casstevens and by Diversified Utility Consultants, Inc.
Mr. Dick Bremer, representing CP&L, stated that he has examined the
proposed ordinance which would embody a fifty-three percent write-off of the
South Texas Nuclear project. He noted that Unit 1 of that plant has been
operating for several months and the second unit is ready for operation. He
expressed the opinion that the plant is a state-of-the-art plant and the
operators are quite skilled.
Mr. Bremer continued by stating that the plant was constructed for fuel
diversity during the time of the shortage of gas and oil. Mr. Bremer explained
that the other issues involved in the request concern federal income taxes and
franchise taxes. He stated that the fuel diversity will help reduce the cost of
fuel, and they feel that STNP is essential to assure a supply of fuel for CP&L.
He continued by stating that CP&L is asking for an increase in rates to
gradually extend over a period of time and that a sixteen percent increase be
approved at this time. He stated that after the phase-in of the rate increase,
CP&L would keep their rates constant up until the year 2000. Mr. Bremer stated
that CP&L would like to have the Council reject the rate increase as recommended
because the appropriate place to resolve the rate increase request is at the PUC
level.
Mr. Don Butler, of Butler and Casstevens law firm in Austin, Texas, stated
that he is the consultant representing the City of Corpus Christi and other
cities in the CP&L service area. He stated that they have been working with
Diversified Utility Consultants, Inc. and copies of their report have been made
available to the Council.
Mr. Butler continued by stating that seventy cities are involved in this
case; in the last case the company requested an increase of $120 million and it
was settled for $25 million. He explained that the consultants have recommended
that CP&L be granted a one-time increase in revenue of $81,374,950 which they
felt will fairly and reasonably compensate CP&L for the reasonable cost of the
South Texas Nuclear Project and other expenses. He stated that there would
also be a payback in the amount of $65 million composed of an over -collection of
franchise taxes and the return of taxes that will not be paid in the future. He
stated that the consultants recommend paying that back over a three-year period.
Mr. Butler summarized by recommending that the ordinance be adopted because that
is their responsibility and this will not slow the case down at all. He
expressed the opinion that cities should retain as many rights as possible and
they do have the right to set rates even though they may be referred to the PUC
In Austin. He stated that he and the other consultants do not have any question
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 12
about the construction of STNP but they do question the cost of the
construction.
Discussion followed among the Council Members and the consultants.
Council Member Martin stated that he had read through the material that was
prepared and he felt that the only honest vote is to deny the rate increase,
allow the staff and consultants the capability to negotiate on the City's
behalf, and allow CP&L to present the case before the PUC in Austin. He
reiterated that he felt that they should just deny the increase rather than
approve the recommended one. Mr. Martin indicated that he would put this in the
form of a motion, and Council Member Guerrero seconded the motion.
Council Member Rhodes expressed the opinion that might be good for their
constituents but it is not good for the City.
Mayor Turner called for the vote on the motion and declared that it had
passed, with Council Member Rhodes stating that she had voted "No." Discussion
followed as to whether or not the ordinance should be voted upon, and City
Secretary Chapa explained that Mr. Martin has amended the ordinance to reflect
that the rate increase is denied.
City Attorney George suggested that the Council might wish to hear from
members of the audience before voting upon the ordinance. He suggested that the
appropriate motion would be to delete Sections I and II and that the language
should be added to the ordinance to deny the rate increase requested by CP&L.
Council Member Martin clarified his motion stating that it is to amend the
proposed ordinance by deleting Sections I and II and to add a statement that the
increase in rates requested by CP&L will be denied.
Mr. Jack Cooper expressed the opinion that if the Council votes to deny the
rate increase, they are backing away from their responsibility to the citizens.
He stated that if they vote to deny the increase recommended by the consultants,
they will allow CP&L to go immediately to PUC. He pointed out that they will
also be denying the recommendation of the paid consultants. Mr. Cooper also
pointed out that the partners in the STNP plant have sued their contractor who
started building the plant; they have a lot of infighting among the partners;
the City of Corpus Christi needs to take a stand on this; and he urged that the
consultants' report be accepted and that the Council comply with their
recommendation.
Mr. Charles Nichols addressed the Council and stated that he agrees with
Mr. Cooper. He pointed out that it was his understanding that CP&L is a member
of a holding company that has three other companies that are making tremendous
profits in other states. He agreed that the Council should adopt the
recommendations of the consultants and pass the ordinance as suggested.
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Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 13
Council Members Guerrero and Hunt stated that they felt that the Council
has no alternative but to concur with the recommendation of their consultants.
Council Member McComb inquired about the amount paid the consultants, and
Mr. Butler stated that there will be significant costs by HLP and CP&L
consultants, but his company would have a very modest fee, noting that they
charge by the hour and their rates are probably lower than any other consultant
fees in Texas.
A motion was made by Council Member Martin that the hearing be closed;
seconded by Council Member Rhodes and passed unanimously.
Council Member Martin stated that he would like to withdraw his motion to
deny the rate increase, and the Council offered no objection to this.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following
ordinance was passed on first reading:
16. FIRST READING
APPROVING RATE SCHEDULES TO BE CHARGED BY CENTRAL POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY
IN THE CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS, PROVIDING FOR SCHEDULES, CONDITIONS,
SEVERABILITY, AND REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES.
The foregoing Ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote:
Turner, Moss, Berlanga, Guerrero, Hunt, Martin, McComb, Rhodes and Schwing
voting, "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
City Manager Garza provided the Council with copies of the proposed CDBG
program funding that was previously approved.
City Manager Garza then referred to the budget schedule. He pointed out
that the discussion workshop sessions should be culminated with a public hearing
no sooner than fifteen days from that date.
Council Member Hunt stated that he had heard about some drilling leases
that are in operation on Padre Island and he would like for the staff to provide
a report on that.
Mr. Hunt referred to the controversy in regard to the Roe Wickham
situation, who has an alleged conflict of interest as a member of the Planning
Commission. Mr. Hunt stated that he would like for the Legal Department to find
out if there have been any dealings between Mr. Wickham and Mr. Ralph Durden.
Council Member Martin referred to the budget discussion schedule and stated
that he felt that the staff should be allowed to present the budget and the
Council needs to have the time to address the policy questions. He stated that
he would also hope to hear a presentation by each department. He suggested that
at some point the Council should reserve a Saturday to conduct an all -day
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
May 30, 1989
Page 14
meeting to deal with the budget. He expressed the opinion that every Tuesday
morning is not enough time and he would prefer to have one long session to
completely resolve the budget. Following a short discussion, it was the
consensus of the Council that the budget discussions will begin next Tuesday,
June 6th, following the regular Council Meeting.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
City Secretary Chapa stated that he had some questions that needed to be
resolved on the possible election to be conducted in August. He explained to
the Council that there are many things that his staff needs to do to start
getting ready to call the election, such as making arrangements for all of the
polling places. He stated that he would like to have the Council's direction on
two questions: 1. the use of branch polling places for absentee voting which
costs approximately $8,500 and 2. whether or not precincts should be
consolidated to effect a further savings. Mr. Chapa explained that it is
necessary for his staff to prepare a submission to the Justice Department and
that needs to be submitted sixty days before the election. He stated that he
was merely asking for direction from the Council on these questions.
A motion was made by Council Member McComb that absentee voting be
conducted at City Hall only.
Mayor Turner inquired if this question could be delayed until next week,
and Mr. Chapa stated that he would like to know as soon as possible because of
the time element. Mayor Turner suggested that he go ahead and effect what
savings he could in preparing for the election.
Council Member McComb referred to the problem of the reopening of
Reynaldo's Bar. He stated that he understood that it was a disturbing element
in that neighborhood and it was his understanding that a hearing will be
conducted by the County Judge the following morning.
Mr. Tom Duran, Senior Assistant to the City Manager, stated that he was
aware of the hearing and he was going to meet with Chief Bung of the Police
Department to prepare information for the hearing.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Turner
declared the Council Meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. on May 30, 1989.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Public Services
Neighbors on Watch
15TH YEAR CDBG WORK SHEET
Planning
Commission
Staff
Amended
1,000 1,000
City
Council
1,000
Parks, Playgrounds and other Recreational Facilities
HEB Pool Improvements 45,000
T.C. Ayers Improvements 20,000
Neighborhood Parks 26,000
, Youth Sports Complex 175,000
...Broadmoor Park Improvements 5,000
Crossley School Area Children's Park Equipment 20,000
Molina Veteran's Park 15,500
Laguna Park
45,000
20,000
26,000
175,000
10,000
25,000
20,000
20,000
205,000
5,000
20,000
15,000
20,000
- 0-
41,500
-0-
- o -
Street and Utility Improvements
San Juan Area Street Improvements
San Juan Area Drainage
Engineering Design
Wynn Seale School Area Streets
Street Lighting
Paving Assessments
208,000
155,000
740,000 740,000
-0- -0-
30,000
57,500
150,000
30,000 - 0 -
57,500 40,000
150,000 140,000
Elimination of Blight and Slum
Code Enforcement
Demolition/Relocation
66,000
50,000
66,000 66,000
50,000 40,000
Neiohborhood Facilities
Pedestrian Bridge at Airport Ditch
Greenwood Branch Library Expansion
Ethyl Eyerly Community Center
Communities In Schools
Neighborhood Centers of Corpus Christi
Laredo Street Mercado
Boys' Club Facility Improvements
30,000
210,000
100,000
35,000
23,500
250,000
-0-
30,000 30,000
210,000 205,000
100,000 100,000
35,000 30 000
11,000 - 0 -
-0- -0-
60,000 95,000
Rehabilitation Loan/Grant Programs
Single -Family, Commercial and
Historical Loan Program
Emergency Repair Grant
Paint Grant
Rehabilitation Services
Heart of Corpus Christi
NCCAA Weatherization Program
1,000,000 1,000,000
450,000 450,000
50,000 50,000
500,000 500,000
150,000 -0-
50,000 -0-
1,000,000
450,000
10,000
500,000
135,000
- 0 -
Planning and Administration
CDBG General Administration
Planning
Landmark Commission
180,000
65,000
200,000
100,000
7,500
194,500
80,000
7,500
TOTALS $4,159,000 $4,159,000
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 May 30,
1989, which were approved by the City Council on June 6, 1989.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the /44 111 day of
1989.
etty Turn r, Mayor
Av1-1-r-e9 aelt
Armando Chapa
City Secretary