HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 01/19/1993MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
2 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Mary Rhodes
Mayor Pro Tem Edward Martin
Council Members:
Cezar Galindo
Leo Guerrero
Mary Pat Slavik
Joe McComb •
Dr. David McNichols
Betty Jean Longoria
Clif Moss
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 Council Member Galindo, following which the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Council Member
McNichols.
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 January 12, 1993, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as
presented.
Council Members Guerrero and McComb arrived at the council meeting at 2:05 p.m.
Mayor Rhodes referred to the Board and Committee appointments and the following
appointment was made:
,uil EL1ULMED
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 2
Corpus Christi Area Economic Development Corporation
Irma Caballero
Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances
and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 1 through 7, and Council Members
requested that Items 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6a through 6g be withheld for discussion.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were
passed:
2. M93-015
Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 225 cold water displacement
type water meters, sizes 3/a", 11/2" and 2" in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -
0072 -93 with Kent Meters, Inc., Ocala, Florida, based on low bid for an estimated
annual expenditure of $27,075. The term of the contract shall be for twelve months
with an option to extend for up to an additional twelve months subject to the
approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been
budgeted by the Water Department in FY 92-93.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
7. SECOND READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a lease agreement expiring
September 30, 1993, to include an option to renew annually for nine years with the
U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration for and in
consideration of establishing, main aining, and operating the auxiliary engine
generator and underground fuel storage tank at the Corpus Christi International
Airport.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting
"Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 1, motion approving a supply
agreement for uniformed security guard service for City Hall.
Council Member McNichols inquired whether contracting with the private sector for
the security service was the most economical procedure or could the security be performed
in-house by the City's Police Department. City Manager Garza explained that the proposed
contract was less expensive when compared to the total overall costs to the City for police
officers to perform the security, and expressed concern that security throughout the City
would be reduced in this event. Mr. Garza also discussed employment procedures if the
Council elected to use City police officers.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 3
Council Member Longoria referred to the recent contract for the uniformed security
guards at the City's libraries, and inquired whether the security for City Hall could be
combined with this security. City Manager Garza answered in the affirmative, and explained
that, in the future, similar security contracts would be combined. He further stated that this
consolidation could possibly reduce the expense.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 3, motion authorizing the City
Manager to execute an agreement with Central Power & Light Company to install street
lighting improvements along Blanche Moore Drive.
Council Member Slavik commented on the precise cost to the City in the agreement,
and the City Manager affirmed.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 4, motion authorizing an annual joint
funding agreement with the Geological Survey, U.S. Department of the Interior, for the
continuation of surface water data collection and limited studies by the Geological Survey
for the City's water supply activity.
Council Member McNichols referred to the Federal Government mandate, and
inquired about the variations in the City's past funding. Mr. Bill Hennings, Director of
Public Works/Utilities, discussed the funding variations and the addition of the data
collection platforms and streamflow stations in the City.
Council Member Moss inquired about the purpose of the survey program, and
Mr. Hennings explained the different data collected. Mr. Moss further inquired whether the
salinity measurements performed were still necessary in view of other information readily
available. Mr. Hennings commented that the two operations were separate, and explained
further.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 5, ordinance amending the FY 1992-93
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Operating Budget.
Council Member Slavik inquired about the MPO funding, and Mr. Crull explained
the Federal Highway Administration's procedure which determined the funding.
Council Member McComb inquired -about the salaries proposed for the two
additional positions. City Manager Garza explained the salaries, and Mr. Crull referred to
the job descriptions and pay categories related.
Responding to Mayor Rhodes, Mr. Crull explained the responsibilities of the two
positions previously added to the MPO operating budget and the current proposed positions.
Council Member Moss referred to the source of the MPO funds, and Mr. Crull
affirmed. Mr. Moss also referred to the proposed retirement amounts of the two positions.
A brief discussion ensued and it was determined that the retirement included FICA as well
as the City's retirement plan.
Minutes
Regular Cok..,cil Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 4
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Items 6a through 6g, ordinance and motions
proposing an appropriation and improvements at the Corpus Christi International Airport.
Relative to 6c, motion approving an Inspection Services Contract with Horizon
Systems, Inc. to provide residential inspection services for the Electrical Improvements
project, Council Member Slavik inquired about the residential inspection services. Mr. Crull
explained the services.
Relative to 6f, motion awarding a contract to Winship Construction Company to
construct a new ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) Facility, Council Member Slavik
inquired about the need for the facility.
Mr. George Hext, Director of Aviation, explained the need for additional storage and
classrooms at the Airport which would be provided through this facility. Further, Mr. Hext
explained the facility's location.
Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Crull discussed the previous
performance of the proposed bonding company.
Council Member McComb referred to the cost of the building, and Mr. Crull briefly
explained the building's proposed framework and makeup.
Responding to several Council Members, Mr. Crull also discussed the alternatives
in the contract which were not awarded.
Responding to Council Member Galindo, Mr. Crull explained the proposed
transformer replacement at the Airport Terminal Building referred to in Item 6b.
A brief discussion ensued and Council Member Martin stressed the importance of
obtaining more explicit information on the costs for the ARFF facility. City Manager Garza
requested this information be presented to the Council before the conclusion of the day's
Council meeting.
Mr. Ronald A. Hudson, 3556 Austin, inquired what portion of the funding would be
utilized for public art at the ARFF facility.
Mayor Rhodes stated that Items 6a through 6g would be withheld from consideration
until additional information was available to the Council before the close of the day's
meeting.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 7, authorizing the City Manager to
execute a lease agreement with the U. S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation
Administration for and in consideration of establishing, maintaining, and operating the
auxiliary engine generator and underground fuel storage tank at the Corpus Christi
International Airport.
Mayor Rhodes called for conunents and there were none.
Minutes
Regular Co,.nci1 Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 5
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
1. M93-014
Motion approving a supply agreement for uniformed security guard service for City
Hall in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0089-93 with Stanley Smith Security,
Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of
$54,837.60. The security service will be maintained twenty-four (24) hours a day,
seven (7) days a week, for approximately 8,760 hours a year. The term of the
contract shall be for twelve months with an option to extend for an additional twelve
months, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee.
Funds have been budgeted in FY 92-93 by Maintenance Services.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
3. M93-016
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with
Central Power & Light Company to install street lighting improvements along
Blanche Moore Drive between Williams Drive and the S.H. 358 Expressway, at a
cost not to exceed $11,700.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
4. M93-017
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute an annual joint funding agreement
with the Geological Survey, U.S. Department of the Interior, for the continuation of
surface water data collection and limited studies by the Geological Survey for the
City's water supply activity; and providing for the Geological Survey to pay $35,615,
and for the City to reimburse the Geological Survey in the amount of $52,635, out
of a total project cost of $88,247 during the federal fiscal year October 1, 1992,
through September 30, 1993.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
5. ORDINANCE NO. 021550
Ordinance amending the FY 1992-93 Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Operating Budget by adding a Senior Planner and Senior Engineer Aide position
including support items, and appropriating $295,379 from the 1992-93 Unified
Planning Work Program.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 6
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss,
and Slavik voting "Aye."
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Mayor Rhodes called for consideration from the Regular Agenda.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 8, ordinance providing for the issuance
of General Improvement Refunding Bonds, Series 1993.
Ms. Rosie Vela, Director of Finance, distributed material to the Council explaining
the refunding procedure. City Manager Garza briefly referred to the previous Council
request to investigate the possibility of refunding City bonds and discussed the savings
available. Mr. Garza further recommended adoption.
Responding to Council Member Moss, City Manager Garza explained the true
interest costs referenced in the Agenda material. Mr. Moss also inquired about refinancing
all City bonds, and City Manager Garza explained that most interest rates on the remaining
bonds were low.
Council Member Martin inquired about the true interest cost being a present value
calculation, and City Manager Garza affirmed and explained further. Next, Mr. Martin
reviewed the criteria which would be met in the refunding, and Mr. Garza affirmed each.
Responding to Council Member Slavik, City Manager Garza explained the risk
involved if the ordinance were adopted on a three reading basis instead of an emergency.
Mr. Martin briefly commented on past bond refinancing whereby special meetings were held
due to the volatile nature of interest rates.
City Manager Garza and Ms. Vela responded to several questions from Mrs. Slavik
regarding the distributed material.
Responding to Mrs. Slavik's request, Ms. Vela stated that the bond refinancing would
provide a savings to the City of $643,360 over the next three years. Ms. Vela then
introduced Mr. Bob Howell, representative from Texas Commerce Bank. Mr. Howell briefly
explained the Sources and Uses of the Series 1993 Refunding Bonds and the Debt Service
Schedule in the distributed material.
Council Member McNichols referred to the City's recent budget decisions concerning
the City's bond indebtedness, and commented that this savings was essential to help avoid
the increase of taxes in the community.
Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, commented on the number of times the City has
refinanced General Improvement bonds, and expressed concern.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 7
8. ORDINANCE NO. 021552
Ordinance providing for the issuance of $22,520,000 General Improvement Refunding
Bonds, Series 1993, of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, bearing interest at the rates
hereinafter set forth, and providing for the levy, assessment and collection of a tax
sufficient to pay the interest on said bonds and to create a sinking fund for the
redemption thereof at maturity; approving the execution of a bond purchase
agreement, an escrow agreement and an official statement; repealing all ordinances
in conflict herewith; declaring an emergency; and ordaining other matter related
thereto.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss,
and Slavik voting "Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 9, the ordinance ordering a General
Election to be held on April 3, 1993, for the election of Mayor and eight Council Members;
providing for consideration of amendments to the Charter; providing procedures for holding
such election; providing for Notice of Election and publication thereof; providing for
establishment of Branch Early Polling Places; designating polling place locations; enacting
provisions incident and relating to the subject and purposes of this ordinance.
Council Member Martin inquired whether the sale of the City's Gas Division could
be included at a later date. Mr. Chapa explained the 45 day deadline for calling an election
and the 60 day deadline for submission to the Justice Department. He further stated that
the ordinance could be amended to include the sale before the 45 day deadline.
Mr. Chapa then commented that the Corpus Christi Army Depot did not wish to
participate in the Early Mobile Voting project and recommended that the Wal-Mart on
Everhart be substituted. Mayor Rhodes moved to amend the ordinance removing the
Corpus Christi Army Depot at the Naval Air Station from the Schedule of Early Mobile
Voting for the April 3, 1993 election and adding Wal-Mart, 4833 South Padre Island Drive.
This motion was seconded by Council Member Guerrero.
Council Member Martin inquired whether the ordinance should be amended in
general terms instead of specific terms. Mr. Chapa stated that the submission to the Justice
Department required the inclusion of the early voting locations because of the need to
obtain clearance from the Justice Department for holding the election within the 60 day
time frame. Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote on the motion and the motion passed
unanimously.
Responding to Council Member Martin's earlier inquiry about including the sale of
the City's Gas Division, City Attorney Bray stated that the Voting Rights Submission would
be supplemented. Responding further, Mr. Bray stated that the ballot language for the sale
was not presently available for inclusion in the submission Mr. Martin also inquired when
the sale of the City's Gas Division would be considered by the Council, and Mr. Bray
answered.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 8
Mr. Chapa commented that the Justice Department was mainly interested in the
mobile voting sites, change in polling locations, and various changes in the Charter which
may affect voting rights. He further stated that the sale of the City's Gas Division would
not constitute an issue with the Justice Department since they are predominantly concerned
with voting rights issues when reviewing submissions.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
9. ORDINANCE NO. 021553
Ordinance ordering a General Election to be held on April 3, 1993, in the City of
Corpus Christi for the election of Mayor and eight Council Members; providing for
consideration of amendments to the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi; providing
procedures for holding such election; providing for Notice of Election and publication
thereof; providing for establishment of Branch Early Polling Places; designating
polling place locations; enacting provisions incident and relating to the subject and
purpose of this ordinance.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed as amended by the
following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols,
Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 10, motion directing the City Manager
to negotiate the sale of the City's natural gas distribution system with the proposer(s)
selected by the City Council. The Council went into executive session, pursuant to Article
6252-17, Section 2(g), V.A.C.S., regarding the motion.
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The Council returned from closed session and Council Member Slavik made a
motion directing the City Manager to negotiate the sale of the City's natural gas distribution
system with Southern Union Gas and National Utilities Investors (NUI). This motion was
seconded by Council Member Moss.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
10. M93-024
Motion directing the City Manager to negotiate the sale of the City's natural gas
distribution system with the proposer(s) selected by the City Council, Southern Union
Gas and National Utilities Investors (NUI).
The foregoing motion passed as amended by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo,
Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 9
Council Member Martin commented that the meetings with the Gas Purchase
Committee reflected that proceeds from the sale be utilized in the City's utility and water
systems. He next requested that ballot language and the use of the funds from the sale be
addressed as soon as possible. Mayor Rhodes agreed with Mr. Martin and commented that
this information would be vital to the voting public. Council Member Martin also requested
that the Legal Department research ways to assure that future councils would use the
proceeds from the sale as initially intended.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 11, motion approving Amendment No.
4 to the contract with Resource Management International, Inc. (RMI) adding services
necessary to negotiate a contract for the sale of the Gas System, for an additional fee not
to exceed $45,000.
Responding to Mayor Rhodes' inquiry, City Manager Garza stated that RMI would
assist City staff in preparing the final documents for the sale. He further stated that this
information would be returned to the Council by February 4, 1993.
Mayor Rhodes commented that RMI had done an excellent job, and inquired
whether the City could proceed with the final preparations singularly. City Manager Garza
referred to the intricate factors involved, and recommended the use of RMI's expertise.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
11. M93-025
Motion approving Amendment Number 4 to the contract with Resource Management
International, Inc., approved by the City Council on June 16, 1992, adding services
necessary to negotiate a contract for the sale of the Gas System, for an additional fee
not to exceed $45,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Returning to Items 6a through 6g, improvements at the Corpus Christi International
Airport, Mr. Crull explained the proposed use of the ARFF facility and outlined the costs
in the construction of the facility. Mr. Crull further stated that this cost was reasonable and
requested approval of the contract.
Responding to Council Member Guerrero, Mr. Hext explained the difficulties
involved if the City Council decided not to pass the motion utilizing the Federal Aviation
Administration grant.
Council Member Martin commented that he would support Item 6f, and requested
a breakdown of cost for a recently constructed fire station in the City other than the
downtown station. Mr. Hext stated that the ARFF facility was being constructed for future
Airport growth in the community over the next thirty years.
Minutes
Regular Cot.acil Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 10
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
6a. QRDINANCE NO. 021551
Ordinance appropriating a Federal Aviation Grant in the amount of $2,869,665 for
various improvements included in Grant No. AIP 3-48-0051-19-92 and appropriating
$318,852 from the Airport Capital Reserve Fund as the local share and authorizing
the transfer of these funds to the Airport Bond Fund.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss,
and Slavik voting "Aye."
6b. M93-018
Motion awarding a contract to F&W Electrical Contractors of San Antonio in the
amount of $1,360,093.20 to construct various electrical improvements including
airfield signage and markings; high intensity runway lights for Runway 17/35;
upgraded night time illumination of the Commercial Apron, and upgrading and
replacing the electrical transfer switching equipment and primary distribution system.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
6c. M93-019
Motion approving an Inspection Services Contract with Horizon Systems, Inc. to
provide residential inspection services for the Electrical Improvements project in an
amount not to exceed $40,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
6d. M93-020
Motion awarding a contract to Industrial Disposal Supply Company of San Antonio
in the amount of $83,715 to purchase a vacuum sweeper to clean airport operating
surfaces (runways, taxiways and aprons).
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Co,..,cil Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 11
6e. M93-021
Motion awarding a contract to Bentz Mobile Products of Fort Wayne, Indiana, in the
amount of $14,200 to purchase a handicap passenger lift platform.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
6f. M93-022
Motion awarding a contract to Winship Construction Company of Corpus Christi in
the amount of $1,359,371 to construct a new ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and
Firefighting) Facility.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
6g. M93-023
Motion approving Amendment No. 3 to the Contract for Engineering Services with
Russell-Veteto in the amount of $25,000 for construction phase services associated
with the ARFF Facility.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Items 12a and 12b concerning the City's
Geographic Information System (GIS).
none.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the Council or the audience and there were
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
12a. ORDINANCE NO. 021554
Ordinance appropriating $135,625 from the Combined Utility System Reserved Fund
Balance for purchase of hardware, software and support services for the City's
Geographic Information System.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss,
and Slavik voting "Aye."
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 12
12b. M93-026
Motion approving the purchase of GIS computer equipment in accordance with Bid
Invitation No. BI -0076-93 to the following firms based on low bid.
Genasys II, Inc. Hewlett-Packard
Fort Collins. CO San Antonio. T)(
40 Items
$133,829.53
GRAND TOTAL - $135,624.53
1 Item
$1,795.00
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Guerrero,
Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
s s s s s s s e s s s s s
Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report.
City Manager Garza commented on the Large City Executive Forum he attended last
week and commented that the City of Corpus Christi was outstanding when compared to
other large cities in Texas.
Mayor Rhodes commented on the need to establish written policies regarding the use
of mobile phones. She then made a motion that no long distance calls or directory
assistance calls made by Council Members would be reimbursed by the City in the future,
seconded by Council Member Guerrero. Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote on the
motion and the motion passed unanimously.
Council Member Guerrero commented that the Regional Manager of Cellular One
offered to provide Council Members with free phones and free local air time as a
community service.
Council Member McComb inquired whether the acceptance of Cellular One's offer
would violate the City's Code of Ethics, and City Attorney Bray stated that the use would
need to be reported. A brief discussion ensued and it was determined that Cellular One did
not currently have a contract with the City, but could bid on a City contract in the future
if the situation arose. Several Council Members commented that they would not be
comfortable accepting Cellular One's offer.
Council Member McComb discussed mobile phone services to the City.
Mr. McComb next suggested that the City bid the mobile phone service to obtain the best
service and competitive prices. Mr. McComb also suggested an audit of the Council
Members' mobile phone bills and the formulation of a system similar to one implemented
for the Council's travel expenditures. City Manager Garza commented that the staff was
currently examining the possibility of bidding the City's mobile phone services.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 13
City Manager Garza commented favorably on a reimbursement system for mobile
phone use, and discussed potential procedures.
Council Member McComb made a motion that, effective today, the Council Members
pay their individual phone bills and apply for reimbursement of City -related calls. The
motion was seconded by Council Member Slavik. Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote and
the motion passed unanimously.
Council Member Slavik suggested that the Council consider an annual rate cap for
mobile phone calls. Mrs. Slavik inquired about the cost of airtime per minute and an
appropriate cost per month for use by the Council Members. Mayor Rhodes suggested that
the consideration of a rate cap be addressed when the pertinent information was available.
Council Member Martin commented that Council Members were their own bosses,
and staff did not inspect or judge Council actions. Mr. Martin then requested that the City
Manager and City Secretary examine Council issues and policies relating to expenses
incurred by the Council Members, or, in the alternative, the establishment of a rules
committee. Mr. Martin then discussed the difficulties of determining whether a matter was
City -related or not. Mr. Martin also requested that City Secretary Chapa examine the
Council Members' expense files and advise the Council of any discrepancies. He further
requested that City Manager Garza examine the City employees' expense files for the same
purpose.
Mayor Rhodes agreed with Mr. Martin's suggestions, but stated that the examination
of Council actions by the City Secretary was unfair due to the employer/employee
relationship. Council Member Guerrero commented that an employee examining the
actions of a employer was not unusual. Council Member Martin commented that the
alternative would be to appoint a Committee of the Council, and Council Member Longoria
and Mayor Rhodes agreed with this alternative suggestion. Mayor Rhodes also inquired
whether it would be appropriate for the Ethics Committee to assume the responsibility.
Responding to Council Member Slavik, City Secretary Chapa commented that
Council expenses for reimbursement were reviewed by City staff but the Council Members
determined the necessity and relevance of the expenditures. Responding further, Mr. Chapa
stated that he would be willing to work with a Committee of the Council on the matter.
Mayor Rhodes then made a motion that each Council Member have only one mobile
phone, and the motion was seconded by Council Member Slavik. Mayor Rhodes called for
a voice vote on the motion and the motion did not pass. A brief discussion ensued and it
was determined that the origination of the call was not a major factor, but the originator of
the call was.
Council Member McComb commented on the current agreement with Southwestern
Bell Mobile Systems, and suggested that bills be sent directly to Council Members.
Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 14
Council Member Moss referred to a newspaper article concerning improvements on
Holly Road and inquired whether these improvements could be expedited. City Manager
Garza briefly explained the circumstances involved.
Mayor Rhodes referred to the format of a recent memorandum she received from
F. D. Glenn, Purchasing Agent, and requested that more memos be prepared in this fashion.
Council Member Slavik referred to the information provided to the Council
concerning the emergency repairs of the landfill dozers, and inquired whether the machines
were inspected on a daily basis to prevent such damage. Mr. Garza explained the daily
maintenance performed on the machines. Also, Mrs. Slavik requested that the staff contact
the Texas Municipal League regarding smoking bans in other Texas cities. Mrs. Slavik then
referred to telephone calls she recently received on smoking in local restaurants.
Council Member Martin inquired about the City's golf course agreements, and
Mr. Garza commented that Phoenix Holdings Group, Inc. planned to post the bond on
Thursday of this week with Allied Capital Corporation. Mr. Martin also requested
information on the retiree's medical insurance premiums which were recently increased.
Lastly, Mr. Martin commented on the need for more police officers in the community. He
commented that the savings through the current bond refinancing could possibly be utilized
in this area. City Manager Garza discussed a program for high school graduates concerning
police work in the City which could be developed. A brief discussion ensued about the
program and several Council Members stated support.
Council Member McComb commented on the organizations involved in developing
the City's original smoking ordinance. Mr. McComb then moved to direct the City Manager
to request the Citizens Advisory Health and Welfare Board and the Coastal Bend
Restaurant Association to review Chapter 23, Section 23-74, I A(5), Food Service, of the
Code of Ordinances, seconded by Council Member Slavik. Mayor Rhodes called for a voice
vote on the motion and the motion passed unanimously.
Council Member Galindo commented on recent meetings of the Mayor's Task Force
on Crime Prevention which highlighted the need for more engraving tools to be available
to the public. Mayor Rhodes stated that this item was a current recommendation.
Returning to the mobile phone issue, Mr. Garza commented that City Attorney Bray
suggested that the motions on the day's agenda be brought back for Council consideration
at the next Council meeting.
Returning to the discussion about the City's smoking ordinance, Council Member
Guerrero suggested that City Manager Garza obtain a copy of the San Antonio smoking
ordinance as a reference.
Council Member Longoria referred to the recent meetings about crime prevention
in the City and stated that the meetings revealed that Police Chief Garrett and the City's
Police Department were doing an excellent job. Mayor Rhodes also commended the Police
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
January 19, 1993
Page 15
Department employees and Senior Officer Larry Olivarez in Community Service Division
for their participation at the Town Hall meetings.
Returning to the discussion on the City's smoking ordinance, Council Member
McNichols suggested that the examination of the ordinance be more extensive than
previously suggested. Dr. McNichols further commented that the Nueces County Medical
Society would be supportive of a wider ban on smoking in the area.
Mayor Rhodes called for petitions from the audience.
Mr. Ron Hudson, 3556 Austin Street, commented on several rules and regulations
he felt the Cable Communication Commission and Human Relations Commission meetings
were violating.
Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, commented on the increasing cable bills, and suggested
that the Council increase the franchise fees. Mr. Perez also stressed the importance of
mobile phone use by the Council Members. Council Member Slavik inquired about the
remaining time left on the cable company's franchise agreement, and City Manager Garza
stated that he would provide this information to Mrs. Slavik.
Mr. Raymond F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, commented on the City's purchase of the
Frost Building in the downtown area.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared
the Council Meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m. on January 19, 1993.
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 January 19, 1993, which
were approved by the City Council on January 26, 1993.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 5th day of February, 1993.
Armando Chapa
l City Secretary
SEAL