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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 05/26/1992MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 2 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Mary Rhodes Mayor Pro Tem Betty Jean Longoria Council Members: Cezar Galindo Leo Guerrero Edward Martin Joe McComb Dr. David McNichols Clif Moss Mary Pat Slavik City Manager Juan Garza City Attorney James R. Bray, Jr. City Secretary Armando Chapa Mayor Rhodes called the meeting to order in the Council Chamber of City Hall. The invocation was delivered by Reverend Mac McCullough of Unity Church of Corpus Christi, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Council Member Betty Jean Longoria. 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 Rhodes called for approval of the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of May 19, 1992, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as presented. Mayor Rhodes presented a plaque to Lieutenant Garland W. Riner in special recognition for 28 years of service to the community, and Katherine B. Shelton for 20 years of service to the community. Mr. Hal Kaminski, President of the American Bowling Congress, presented the Mayor with a bowling pin and a miniature inscribed bowling ball in appreciation of the outstanding welcome provided to the bowlers during their presence in Corpus Christi. Mayor Rhodes commented that their visit was a pleasure and hopes the 1997 tournaments can be held in Corpus Christi, which all Council Members agreed. Additionally, Mayor Rhodes complimented the Corpus Christi Area Convention & Tourist Bureau on the wonderful work they contributed. ,iiiCROFILMED Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 2 Responding to Council Member McComb's comment on the reconsideration from the May 19, 1992 council meeting, Item 7, regarding the issuance of a certificate of convenience and necessity to American Cab and Shuttle Co.," City Manager Garza stated that this item is not ready for reconsideration and will carry over to the June 2, 1992, council meeting. Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 1 through 4, and Council Members requested that Items 1 and 2 be withheld for discussion. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 3. RESOLUTION NO. 021402 Resolution expressing the strong desire of the City Council to host the Association of Mayors, Council Members and Commissioners Institute in July, 1994. The foregoing resolution passed by the following votes: Rhodes, McComb, McNichols, Moss, Slavik, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, and Martin voting, "Aye.' 4. ORDINANCE NO. 021403 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an Assignment of Lease for self- service parcel lockers at the Corpus Christi International Airport from Amlock, Inc to Smarte Carte, Inc. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Rhodes, McComb, McNichols, Moss, Slavik, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, and Martin voting, "Aye." Relative to Item 1, Council Member McNichols commented favorably on this mowing agreement and stated that it is a positive step for the Flour Bluff area which has a large amount of heavy undergrowth at this time. Council Member Martin commented on the cost of the mowing agreement and stated that obtaining contract labor is a new item which has not been done before; and City Manager Garza replied in the affirmative. City Manager Garza stated that the monies were provided for in the budget this year to enhance the maintenance of our right-of-ways. Mr. Martin inquired what the cost would be to the City if the mowing were done by City staff; and, City Manager Garza stated that using City staff would reduce the cost, but would not provide for seasonal demand adjustments, which is provided for through contract labor. Mr. Garza further stated that supplemental contract mowing appears to be the best choice Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 3 at this time in order to maintain major areas in the City. Further, Mr. Garza stated that the City staff who previously performed this mowing would be concentrating on ditch mowing and other right-of-way mowing. Council Member Guerrero pointed out that cleaning up the right-of-ways was a chief Council goal for this year. Council Member Moss stated that he is pleased with this project because he feels it is a step towards privatization in the City and hopes to see it in other areas. Pursuant to Item 2, Council Member Slavik stated that more banks were listed in the support material, and asked City Manager Garza if these were the only local banks which could handle the City's large account. City Manager Garza responded that these banks submitted an application in response to the Request for Proposal and the Council would have been informed of any doubt of credibility of any bank responding. Mr Jimmy Till, 1265 Southern Minerals Road, stated he appreciates the extra mowing which fulfills his previous request to the Council regarding high growth areas in the northwest area. 1. M92-120 Motion approving supply agreements for approximately 334,200 linear feet (492 acres) of right-of-way mowing in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0080-92 with the following companies for an estimated annual expenditure of $95,301.80 based on low bid. The terms of the contracts will be twelve months with option to extend for up to an additional twelve months subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. These contracts will be administered by the Stormwater Department and funds have been budgeted for FY 91-92. UMM, Inc. Sandia. TX Bid Item: 1-5 Total: $73,741.80 Grand Total: $95,301.80 Four F. Maintenance Sinton. TX Bid Item: 6 Total: $21,560 City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on the following: The foregoing motion passed by the following votes: Rhodes, McComb, McNichols, Moss, Slavik, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, and Martin voting, "Aye." 2. M92-124 Motion awarding a depository services agreement in the amount of $122,541.90 to First City Bank for a three-year term beginning June 8, 1992 through June 8, 1995. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 4 This agreement will provide depository services for the handling of municipal funds for the City of Corpus Christi. The foregoing motion passed by the following votes: Rhodes, McComb, McNichols, Moss, Slavik, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, and Martin voting, "Aye." Mayor Rhodes announced the public hearing on Item 5, the assessment hearing for the Wynn Seale Area Street Improvements, Phase I, indicating assessments of $48,024.88 on 20 items. City Attorney Bray requested that the City Engineer and the appraiser read their statements into the record. Carl Crull stated that he is the City Engineer for the City of Corpus Christi for the last three years. He is a Professional Engineer, licensed by the State of Texas since 1980, with 21 years experience in design and construction projects and estimating those costs. Mr. Crull stated that he is familiar with the Wynn Seale Street Improvements, Phase I Project. This project encompasses 15th Street from Ayers Street to Staples Street. Presently, 15th Street exists as a narrow two lane roadway with roadside ditches for drainage. The nature and scope of this project is to construct 15th Street as a 40 -foot wide pavement which will provide two 12 -foot wide travel lanes and two parking lanes to accommodate parking demands. Curb and gutter, underground drainage, sidewalks, and concrete driveways will be provided throughout the project. This project is funded with a Community Development Block Grant and Street Bond Funds. Prior to this hearing, he had an estimate of project costs prepared and submitted to the City Council. In his opinion that cost estimate is true and accurate. This project is scheduled to start in late June and be completed within 40 working days or by September, 1992. Mr. Crull stated that the low bidder was Garrett & Associates. He further stated that some of the elderly people involved are concerned that they cannot afford the assessment payment and he commented on the Community Development Block Grant low cost loan program for those that are on a low or moderate income. Additionally, Engineering is working with the rental units in the area concerning their request for head in parking. Mr. George Paraskevas, the appraiser, testified that he has been a local Realtor for the past 21 years. His professional qualifications include Certification of Real Estate Appraiser by the State of Texas, and membership in the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers. He has a degree in Chemistry and Biology from the University of Texas Pan American. He stated that he is familiar with the project and agrees with the conditions which need to be changed. He has reviewed the assessment roll and is in agreement that each parcel will be benefitted by the curb, gutter, sidewalk, and driveway improvements. He is also in agreement with the amount shown for each improvement. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 5 Mr. Crull advised that the motion to adopt the assessment roll with the proposed changes and the award of the contract will be presented to the Council next week. Council Member Guerrero moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Longoria, and passed unanimously by those present and voting. Mayor Rhodes announced the public hearing regarding the proposed adjustments to the current City of Corpus Christi's Single Member District lines. Mayor Rhodes read the following prepared statement: 'Today's public hearing is to gather citizen input concerning the adjusted single member district plan. The issue of whether or not to have all single member districts is not being considered as part of this process. It is currently in litigation and will not be discussed by the Council as part of these public hearings. This should not discourage anyone from speaking on any issue. All public comments, including those proposing different voting systems will be taken into consideration. The purpose of the adjustments to the current single member districts is to equalize the population within the five districts. The City of Corpus Christi is mandated by Federal law and the City Charter to adjust the district lines based on the 1990 census data. A staff public hearing was held on the proposed adjustments May 14, 1992. One citizen has suggested the exchange of precincts 33 and 61 in Districts 1 and 2, respectively. The exchange would increase the black population in District 1 from 7.30 to 8.189 percent and would not significantly alter the other percentages. Tentatively, City Council approval of the adjustments is set for June 2, 1992, with submission to the Justice Department to follow shortly thereafter. Justice Department clearance is anticipated 60 - 120 days after the submission. All comments presented at this public hearing shall be included as part of the submission. This process will allow the necessary time to plan the April 1993 election." She asked any one wishing to address the Council on this matter to approach the podium. There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Martin referred to a letter from Mr. Robert Jones regarding the redistricting. City Secretary Chapa stated that ten people appeared before the Staff Public Hearing and that two people spoke in regard to changing the current system. He further referred to Mr. Jones' concerns regarding the black representation; and recommended that Precinct 33 be exchanged for 61 as suggested by Mr. Jones. Mr. Chapa stated that he felt Mr. Jones' proposal should be respected because it will increase the black participation in District 1 by returning these precincts to the original district. Council Member Martin requested Mr. Chapa write a letter to Mr. Jones thanking him for his comments. Council Member Martin moved that this suggestion be incorporated into the Adjusted Single Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 6 Member District Plan, which was seconded by Council Member Longoria and passed unanimously. Council Member Guerrero moved that the hearing be closed, seconded by Council Member Slavik and passed unanimously. Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Garza stated that the Municipal Arts Commission extends an invitation to the Council Members to the dedication at the Corpus Christi International Airport on Tuesday, June 2, 1992, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Mayor Rhodes and Council Member Longoria stated they will attend. Mayor Rhodes commented on the closure of Kid's Place due to the need to clean-up the graffiti painted on the structures. Mrs. Rhodes also referred to the problems of drinking and transients in this area. Mrs. Rhodes referred to the ordinance banning alcohol in parks that are located near neighborhood school zones during school hours and suggested banning alcohol at Kid's Place in Cole Park. Council Member Guerrero suggested a total ban of all alcohol in all public parks. City Manager Garza stated that the Park & Recreation Board has been contemplating an ordinance revision which would be more easily understood. Mayor Rhodes suggested that this matter be pursued more vigorously. Mayor Rhodes commented on two complaints she received regarding occupants of two houses in the Brownlee area. She stated she would appreciate these complaints being placed on the complaint list and addressed soon. Mayor Rhodes called for reports from the Council. Council Member Guerrero commented on a list of concerns given to City Manager Garza regarding North Beach. He stated that he would appreciate these concerns being addressed, specifically the concern regarding Vector Control and their availability on the weekends. Mr. Guerrero stated that certain businesses had to shut down because of the mosquitoes. Furthermore, substandard buildings and drainage problems were on the list which need to be corrected by Neighborhood Improvement. Council Member Moss commented on an article in the Police Department News Update involving an encounter with a python by Officers Kelly and Ortiz. He commended these officers on their fine service to the community. Council Member Martin commented on the letter regarding the Airport Shuttle wherein a tip was incorporated into the charge. City Manager Garza stated he plans on investigating this matter. Mr. Martin also stated that the small amount of input received in the Single Member District Plan is because of the good job performed by staff. City Manager Garza also recognized this excellent work which was done by City Secretary Chapa, Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 26, 1992 Page 7 Assistant City Secretary Koenning, City Planner Willie Pulido, and Assistant City Attorney Ruben Perez. Council Member Slavik commented on her request regarding the increase of the Tax Appraisal District. She stated that she protests the nine percent increase due to the unfairness. She would appreciate the conveyance of this message to the involved officials. Mrs. Slavik also commented on a letter received from Sarah Salter and wishes an answer to her as soon as possible. Mrs. Slavik requested a reply regarding the MLC Group's statement of saving the City a substantial amount of money. Council Member McComb also requested information regarding the MLC Group and commented on the water releases at the Lake. A discussion developed and it was determined that the requirement for the month of June is 23,000 acre feet of water release; there has been 112,000 acre feet spilled to date; and a full 50 percent credit for the month of June will be received. Council Member McComb inquired if water releases will still be required later during the year, which City Manager Garza replied in the affirmative. City Manager Garza stated that he believes that the gates are completely up. Further, Council Member Moss questioned Mr. Garza that if the spillway is above the lake level, the lake could be filled in the next week which would close the gates at this time and prevent an overflow. City Manager Garza stated that this is a safety valve during a storm. Mayor Rhodes called for the petitions from the audience. Mr. J. L. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, commented on City Council meeting procedures and Mayor Rhodes asked if anyone had a complaint regarding the agenda procedure to which no one replied. Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, reiterates his problem with the rodents in his backyard and commented on the green recycling bins. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared the Council Meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m. on May 19, 1992. 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 26, 1992, which were approved by the City Council on June 2, 1992. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 21st day of July, 1992. 6 L Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL