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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 02/23/1993I 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 February 23, 1993, which were approved by the City Council on March 2, 1993. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 9th day of March, 1993. SEAL Armando Chapa City Secretary MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting February 23, 1993 2 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Maly Rhodes Mayor Pro Tem Edward Martin Council Members: Cezar Galindo Joe McComb Dr. David McNichols Betty Jean Longoria 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 David Pantermuehl of St. Paul United Church of Christ, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Clark Wimberly and Jennifer McNichols, students from the Parkdale Baptist Church School. Mayor Rhodes recognized the Second Grade Class from Parkdale Baptist Church School present at the day's meeting. 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 February 16, 1993, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as presented. :• s s a s s s s x s* a Mayor Rhodes recognized the Del Mar College Former Student's Association present at the day's meeting. Ms. Kitty M. Koeckritz, President, and Mr. Jesse Rodriguez extended an invitation to the upcoming event on April 21, 1993 highlighting "Campaign 1996, Who's It Going To Be." Ms. Koeckritz also reviewed specific events at the function. Responding to Mayor Rhodes, Ms. Koeckritz commented that the funds from the event would be used for Del Mar College scholarships. Minutes Regular Co. _.il Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 2 Mayor Rhodes announced the presentation by MHMR consumers regarding the grand opening of their new center. Mr. Clifford Kimbrough and Ms. Melanie Glenn, MHMR consumers, extended an invitation to the MHMR grand opening for the MHMR Day Rehabilitation Center on March 31, 1993 at 3:00 p.m. Ms. Glenn reviewed the events scheduled for the opening. Force. Mayor Rhodes announced the presentation by the South Texas Joint Military Task Mr. Loyd Neal, Chairman of the South Texas Joint Military Task Force, briefly discussed past accomplishments of the Task Force. Mr. Neal then discussed the scheduled lobbying efforts by the Task Force in Washington during the Base Closure Commission meeting on March 15, 1993. City Manager Garza recommended approval of the City's financial support. Responding to Mayor Rhodes, Mr. Neal explained the Task Forces's budget and use of the requested funds. He also reviewed the Task Force's joint sponsorship. A brief discussion ensued, and several Council Members stressed the importance of the efforts of the Task Force and pronounced support. Mayor Rhodes referred to the motion on the day's agenda approving financial support in the amount of $25,000 to support the activities of the South Texas Joint Military Task Force. The motion was made by Council Member Martin, seconded by Council Member Slavik, and passed unanimously. Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 5 through 18, and Council Members requested that Items 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, llb, 13a, and 13b be withheld for discussion. City Manager Garza announced that Item 16 would be withdrawn from consideration on the day's agenda, and that Item 13b would be approved as a three reading ordinance instead of the emergency reading as referenced in the day's agenda. City Secretary Chapa explained that the vote on Item 13b at the days meeting would be for the first reading of the ordinance. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 6. M93-059 Motion approving the purchase of various radio communication equipment in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0110-93 from Ericsson GE Mobile Communications, Inc., Portland, Texas based on the low bid of $16,030. This Minutes Regular Co, :Al Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 3 equipment will be utilized with the City's 800 MHZ radio system and will be used by the Street Department and Aviation. These items are listed in the FY 92-93 Capital Outlay as additional equipment. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 11a. M93-064 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a matching grant in the amount of $1,102 and to execute contracts and all related documents from the Texas Commission on the Arts for funding the production of the 1993 Cultural Entertainment Series held at the Multicultural Center in Heritage Park. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye.' 12. ORDINANCE NO. 021574 Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 021382, passed and approved on April 28, 1992, by amending Section 3 of said ordinance so as to adopt the final assessment roll and assessments levied against the owners of property abutting on Redbird Lane, Calallen Drive to IH 37 Frontage Road. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 14. SECOND READING ORDINANCE Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a lease from July 1 to September 30, 1993,with an option to renew annually through September 30, 2003, with the United States Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, for the access roads and walkways at the Corpus Christi International Airport in consideration of maintaining and operating the Visual Approach Slope Indicators (VASI) and Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL) on Runway 17/35. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 15. SECOND READING ORDINANCE Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 6, Animal Control, Article II, Licenses and Permits; Administrative Proceedings, Section 6-18, Commercial Permits, by providing for commercial permits for animal exhibits; providing a permit fee for animal exhibits; and providing for possession of prohibited animals at animal exhibits. Minutes Regular Co til Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 4 The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 16. WITHDRAWN 17. ORDINANCE NO. 021575 Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an Outside City Limits (OCL) Water Service Contract and an Agricultural Water Use Covenant with Dan W. Hill on 40 acres of land out of Section A, Laureles Farm Tract. The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 18. ORDINANCE NO. 021576 Closing and abandoning a 60 -foot wide utility easement previously retained from the right-of-way of Hughes Street between Sam Rankin Street and Tancahua Street, subject to replatting the property within 180 days, and meeting specified conditions. The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 5, motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 1,130 tons of liquid chlorine with Jones Chemical Inc. Council Member Slavik referred to the cost increase, and inquired whether staff was currently investigating alternatives, such as ozone treatment. Responding, City Manager Garza stated that alternatives were presently under investigation and that the cost of chlorine was currently at a peak. Mr. Garza further stated that the article provided in the agenda packet concerning the rising cost of chlorine implied that the cost generally fluctuated. Council Member Moss inquired whether bromine was currently under review as a substitute for chlorine. City Manager Garza stated that staff would review this alternative. Pursuant to Item 7, motion approving a supply agreement for steel pipe with Pipe Exchange, LTD and Texas Pipe and Supply Company, Inc., Council Member Slavik inquired whether the contract would be binding upon the purchaser of the City's natural gas distribution system in the event the system were sold. City Manager Garza replied negatively. Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Garza explained that the contract provided that the products be purchased from these two companies when needed. Minutes Regular Co. .i1 Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 5 Pursuant to Item 8, motion approving the purchase of six wastewater pumps from Davis -McAllen Pipe Co., Council Member Moss inquired whether a standardization of the pumps would be beneficial to the City. City Manager Garza discussed the difficulties of standardization, and stated that staff would investigate this suggestion. Relative to Item 9, motion approving the execution of an agreement with the Women's Shelter of Corpus Christi, Council Member McNichols stated that he supported the project. Further, Dr. McNichols inquired whether the project has been appropriately coordinated to provide proper completion. Mr. Tom Utter, Group Manager, Development Services, commented favorably on past experiences with the Women's Shelter, and stated that staff would affirm the coordination of the project before initial contract execution. Council Member Galindo commented favorably on the project and the services provided to the community by the Women's Shelter. Pursuant to Item 10, motion approving the appropriate actions to implement the work identified in the bid alternatives 1, and 3 through 7, of the proposal for the Brooks Chapel Day Care Center Improvements, Council Member Martin inquired whether previous Council concerns had been properly addressed. City Manager Garza replied in the affirmative, and commented that some of the alternatives would be best performed separately because better prices could be obtained in this fashion. Pursuant to Item 11b, ordinance appropriating a matching grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts, Council Member Slavik inquired about the funding source of the grant, and whether the local Municipal Arts Commission was involved. Mr. Utter explained that the City match would consist of salaries and printing costs provided to the Multicultural Center staff. He further reviewed the annual events provided by the Multicultural Center in Heritage Park. Responding further, Mr. Utter commented that the local Municipal Arts Commission was cognizant of the operations. Pursuant to Item 13b, ordinance authorizing the execution of a contract with J. M. Vaughn for the annexation of approximately 10.42 acres of land out of a 400 acre tract in the Mariano Lopez De Herrera Grant, Council Member Moss inquired about street paving requirements in the contract. Mr. Utter explained the specifications. Mr. Moss then expressed concern that the streets would be substandard and expensive to maintain. City Manager Garza expressed concern and commented that the paving would follow the City's current standards. He then briefly discussed efforts to upgrade these standards. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 5. M93-058 Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 1,130 tons of liquid chlorine delivered in tank cars in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0091-93 with Jones Chemical, Inc., Houston, Texas based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $123,170. The term of the agreement shall be twelve months with option to extend for up to an additional twelve months subject to the approval of the supplier Minutes Regular Co. zit Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 6 and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted in FY 92-93 by the Water Department. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 7. M93-060 Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 53,000 feet of steel pipe, size 1" through 16" in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0088-93 with the following companies based on low bid and low bid meeting specifications for a total of $165,060. The term of the contract will be 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. This pipe will be used by the Gas Department and funds have been budgeted for FY 92-93. Pipe Exchange, LTD. Houston. Texas Bid Items 3-5 Total - $105,320.00 Texas Pipe and Supply Co., Inc. Corpus Christi. Texas Bid Items 1, 2, 6-8 Total - $59,740.00 GRAND TOTAL - $165,060.00 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 8. M93-061 Motion approving the purchase of six wastewater pumps in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0084-93, from Davis -McAllen Pipe Co., Corpus Christi, Texas for the total amount of $14,017.81 based on low bid. The pumps are budgeted in the 1992-93 Capital Outlay as replacements. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 9. M93-062 Motion authorizing the City Manager, or his designee to execute an agreement with the Women's Shelter of Corpus Christi Area, Inc. to provide $300,000 from the FY92 CDBG Program for the Women's Shelter Complex project. The project includes the acquisition of property adjacent to the existing shelter and the demolition of existing improvements on this location; demolition of existing shelter facilities; and the construction of a new facility. Minutes Regular Co. .. it Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 7 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 10. M93-063 Motion approving the appropriate actions to implement the work identified in Bid Alternate Numbers 1, and 3 through 7, of the proposal for the Brooks Chapel Day Care Center Improvements. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." 11b. ORDINANCE NO. 021573 Ordinance appropriating a matching grant in the amount of $1,102 from the Texas Commission on the Arts for funding the production of the 1993 Cultural Entertainment Series held at the Multicultural Center in Heritage Park. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye? 13a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Annexing 10.42 acres of land out of a 400 acre tract in the Mariano Lopez De Herrera Grant, Abstract 606, Nueces County, Texas, owned by Mr. J.M. Vaughn and platted as Wood River Unit 5-A. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, and Slavik voting "Aye"; Moss voting "No." 13b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract with J.M. Vaughn for the annexation of approximately 10.42 acres of land out of a 400 acre tract in the Mariano Lopez De Herrera Grant, Abstract 606, Nueces County, Texas; finding all of said land to lie entirely within the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, adjoining, contiguous, and adjacent thereto. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, and Slavik voting "Aye"; Moss voting "No." t t••• i t i t t t t i Mayor Rhodes called for consideration from the Regular Agenda. Minutes Regular CoL__eil Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 8 Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 19, motion authorizing the City Manager to proceed with the advertisement and receipt of proposals for the operation of the City's adult softball program. City Manager Garza stated that staff was following Council direction to minimize the costs of providing funds for the City Adult Athletic Programs, including adult softball. He further commented that the vote by the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee approving the item (referenced in the agenda material) was unanimous with one abstention. Mr. Utter discussed the staffs proposed plans to bid the operations of the softball program, and reviewed alternatives. He next stated that both the Corpus Christi Softball Association and Grandstands, Inc. have expressed an interest in bidding on the operations. Mr. Utter next discussed current City subsidy amounts. Council Member Martin inquired about the precise subsidy amount. Mr. Utter discussed the direct costs and stated that the indirect costs would be provided to the Council. Next, Mr. Utter stated that the softball program was significantly utilized by the community, and mentioned that the City's Parks and Recreation Department would also develop a proposal. He stated that this proposal could be compared to the other proposals received. Next, Mr. Utter referred to the term of the current food concession contract, and stated that in 1994 concession rights could be considered also. Mayor Rhodes referred to the special consideration by the City for the Senior Citizen Softball Team, and inquired whether this consideration would be included in the proposal. Council Member Moss inquired whether the baseball field would be provided to the private contractor, and Mr. Utter replied that staff was proposing utilization of the City's present softball fields. Mr. Moss stated that it was his understanding that the City's softball activity would be privatized eliminating costs to the general taxpayers. Mr. Moss then stressed the importance of the language in the proposal. Responding further to Council Member Moss, Mr. Utter stated that softball operations varied in different cities, and discussed these variations. Council Member Martin inquired about the bid proposal by the Park and Recreation Department, and Mr. Utter explained. Further, Mr. Martin stressed the importance of initially defining costs to the City for the program and initially measuring the financial capability of the bidders. Council Member Martin inquired whether the Greenwood Field would be utilized, and Mr. Utter replied in the affirmative. Additionally, Council Member Martin inquired whether alcoholic beverages would be allowed at the field, and Mr. Utter replied in the negative. Mr. Martin then expressed concern that the concession contract did not contain a cancellation clause, and Mr. Utter stated that the concession contract would be reviewed. Council Member Martin stated that he would be interested in staff acquiring bids which would eliminate the need for the City to provide subsidy funds. He further stated that, after this amount was available, the Council could decide whether the cost was prohibitive to the sport. Mr. Utter agreed with this suggestion, and discussed the possibility Minutes Regular Co, . it Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 9 of two different proposals. He further stated that the proposals would determine the best rate without City subsidies and then suggested that the Council examine special consideration to senior citizen and youth teams. City Manager Garza stated that City subsidies encouraged the sport in the community. Council Member McNichols commented that the current City budget was limited and that to minimize the subsidizing of sports required consideration. He stated that the Council did not wish to eliminate the sport, but was examining alternatives to allow continuation of the sport without the use of City funds due to the current budget constraints. A broad discussion developed regarding applicable language for the Request for Proposal. Council Member McComb commented favorably on past City softball leagues consisting of participation from the local softball association. Mr. Phil Rosenstein, 949 Bobalo, commented favorably on privatization. He then referred to the City's Senior Citizen Softball Team and requested consideration of the team when further decisions are made. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 19. M93-065 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to proceed with advertisement and receipt of proposals for the operation of the City's adult softball program. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 20, motion approving amendment number 5 to the contract with Resource Management International, Inc. (RMI) adding services necessary to continue negotiating a contract for the sale of the Gas System for an additional fee not to exceed $31,000. City Manager Garza referred to the finalization of the documents concerning the sale, and commented favorably on the utilization of RMI's expertise. Responding to Council Member Galindo's concerns, City Manager Garza explained the revised rate structure of Southern Union Gas Company. Council Member Martin inquired about the amount of funds in the amendment attributable to the negotiations for a new gas source and the amount attributable to finalizing the contract. Council Member Martin suggested that the costs for these two items be identified and separated. He further stated that the finalization of the contract was Minutes Regular Co, .:i1 Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 10 associated with the sale of the system and could, if necessary, be performed by City staff. He further stated that the contract finalization was unrelated to the development of new gas sources. Responding to Council Member Martin's comments, Mr. Hennings explained that the assistance from RMI is needed in light of the December 31, 1993 expiration of the City's long-term gas supply contract. He then stated that, if the voters do not approve the sale in August, the City would only have four months to arrange a new gas supply. He further stated that, since it would likely take longer than four months, it is important to begin work now to ensure an adequate supply of gas for customers. Further, Mr. Hennings stated that RMI will help the City extend the current contract six to nine months, or alternatively, to prepare a Request for Proposal for a short-term gas supply contract. He then stated that $7,500 of the contract amendment was associated with gas supply issues and the remainder was primarily for rate and service policy related issues. Council Member Martin commented that the rate evaluation was consistent with a previous contract amendment. Further, Council Member Martin inquired whether Southern Union Gas Company would be responsible for the additional fee. City Manager Garza stated that the contract with RMI would be reviewed to ascertain exact contract performance. Council Member McComb discussed the rate structure change and expressed concern that the free gas to the City would be calculated into consumer rates. Council Member Martin stated that the cost for the free gas would be converted to a cost of service increase approach. He stated that the initial $8 million would increase if the cost of the free gas were added to the rates. City Manager Garza discussed Council direction in the previous motion approving the negotiations with Southern Union Gas Company. Council Member Moss referred to problems in previous contracts and commented favorably on the assistance of RMI to finalize the gas contract with Southern Union Gas Company. Council Member McNichols inquired whether the City had a firm agreement from Southern Union Gas Company that they would be responsible for the expenses whether the sale was approved or disapproved by the voters. City Manager Garza answered that the contract had not been fully executed, but that Southern Union Gas Company had agreed with the terms at the time of the motion. Responding to Council Member Slavik, City Manager Garza stated that the $31,000 was a negotiated price which RMI had agreed to. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes Regular Co, .;il Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 11 20. M93-066 Motion approving amendment #5 to the contract with Resource Management International, Inc., approved by the City Council on June 16, 1992, adding services necessary to continue negotiating a contract for the sale of the Gas System for an additional fee not to exceed $31,000. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols and Slavik voting "Aye"; Rhodes and Galindo voting "No"; Moss absent. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 21, resolution endorsing the Corpus Christi Arts Council as the agency to receive grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts for the sole purpose of developing a Community Cultural Plan for Corpus Christi. Mayor Rhodes called for comments and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 21. RESOLUTION NO. 021577 Resolution endorsing the Corpus Christi Arts Council as the agency to receive grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts for the sole purpose of developing a Community Cultural Plan for Corpus Christi. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McComb, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye." Mayor Rhodes recessed the Regular Council Meeting. Mayor Rhodes reconvened the Regular Council Meeting and announced the presentation on the City's Wastewater Issues. Mr. Bill Hennings, Group Manager, Public Works/Utilities, gave an overview of the presentation. He stated that the topics for discussion involved the capacities and current loads of the City's treatment plants along with related regulatory issues and parameters of the Texas Water Commission (TWC) permits, the present wastewater affluent study, a two year capital improvement program, and staff recommendations. Mr. Hennings displayed a chart depicting the City's wastewater treatment plants and surrounding areas. Through individual charts, he explained each wastewater treatment plant's design capacity and compared the design capacity to actual flows and permitting requirements. He explained that, when the actual load on the plant attains seventy-five percent of the design capacity, TWC requires a plant expansion or new plant design Minutes Regular Co, .;11 Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 12 relieving the Load on the plant. He further stated that, when the load attains ninety percent, construction of the designed wastewater treatment plant was required. Mr. Hennings then displayed a chart on the Allison Wastewater Treatment Plant, and responded to several questions from Council Members concerning the plant's design capacity and current flows. Mr. Hennings next explained the new TWC limitations on effluent characteristics. He stated that the City's current 20/20 permits (20 milligrams per liter biochemical oxygen demand and 20 milligrams per liter total suspended solids) were subject to new 10/15 permits which would require a major investment to upgrade the wastewater treatment plants. He also stated that this new requirement would affect most wastewater plants in the City. Mr. Hennings then discussed the pilot project to transport effluent from the Allison Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Nueces Delta. He stated this transfer could substitute for fresh water releases from the lakes controlling the salinity levels in Nueces Bay. Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Hennings discussed the status and funding of the pilot project. Council Member McNichols stated that estuary protection was a state, national, and local concern, and inquired whether the permit at the Allison Plant would remain 20/20 until the results are obtained from the pilot project. Mr. Hennings then referred to the City's efforts to request reconsideration of the permit. Council Member McComb expressed concern about the new TWC rules requiring the City to upgrade wastewater treatment plants, and referred to the City's costs. Responding to Council Member McComb, Mr. Hennings explained the process by which TWC determined plant upgrading and current alleviation efforts of the City. Council Member McNichols agreed with Mr. McComb's concerns about the cost implications. Council Member Martin stressed the importance of the pilot project which would assist in long term planning, and expressed concern about implementation of the new requirements before results of the study were available. Mr. Martin further requested precise information concerning the pilot project. Mr. James Dodson, Regional Water Director, explained different phases of the project and approximate completion dates. Mr. Hennings next discussed the effects the new TWC requirements had on other cities in the State. Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Hennings outlined the permit renewal dates of each wastewater treatment plant. Mr. Hennings next discussed potential plans for the wastewater treatment plants based upon the results of the study. Council Member Galindo inquired about recycling effluent water for other uses, and Mr. Hennings discussed the recycling used for irrigation purposes in the City. Returning to the map outlining the City's wastewater treatment plant, Mr. Hennings discussed actual flows and permitting requirements of other wastewater treatment plants. Minutes Regular Co_ _cil Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 13 Mr. Hennings then discussed the staff presentation resulting in TWC withdrawing the requirement to upgrade the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant. Mr. Hennings next stated that the permit at the Greenwood Drive Wastewater Treatment Plant was up for renewal soon and referenced the current flows. He then discussed the potential wetlands project under review for this area which could affect the permitting requirements. Mr. Hennings next referred to infiltration problems overloading the Laguna Madre Wastewater Treatment Plant and plans to reduce infiltration and inflow into the collection system in the Flour Bluff area. He further referred to the favorable results of correcting similar problems in the Corpus Christi Beach area. Mr. Hennings next discussed plant design and expansion of the Whitecap Plant on Padre Island. Council Member McNichols commented on the importance of the term "water quality" and various definitions involving different locations in the State. He then stated that the regulatory "arm" was not always synchronized with the environmental "hand": one group requires more restrictive permits generating a better quality of water, and the other group does not want to increase water quality to the point of eliminating enhancing nutrients in the bays. He further stated cities are currently performing important studies involving this issue, but unfortunately TWC would not wait for the results. Next, Dr. McNichols referred to the projected wastewater treatment capacities accommodating growth patterns referenced in the Brown & Caldwell, Freese & Nichols report. He stated that capacity increases were required regardless of the study results, and requested Mr. Hennings to elaborate. Mr. Hennings discussed the recommendations of the consultant's report. He stated that the report recommended an initial increase in capacity of 11.8 million gallons per day (MGD) and a further increase of 12 MGD by the year 2000 to provide adequate plant capacity through the year 2025. Mr. Hennings then discussed the City's efforts to follow the report's recommendations. Council Member Moss inquired whether unclogging the storm sewers would affect the wastewater plants. Mr. Hennings replied that infiltration was not a result of storm sewer malfunctions, but resulted from wastewater line deficiencies. Mr. Hennings further stated that this problem was prominent in the Flour Bluff area and older areas of the City. Mr. Moss next inquired whether the low position of the wastewater manhole covers on the resurfaced streets created flooding conditions. Mr. Hennings discussed the procedures implemented by the City to decrease infiltration into the manhole covers. Council Member Martin referred to the increased demand flow at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant, and stated that this increase was not attributable to growth. He next stated that the increase could be a result of infiltration in the deteriorating lines. He then referred to the difficulties of locating the problem areas, and inquired whether benefits would be derived from using cameras to determine the areas. Mr. Hennings Minutes Regular Co, _til Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 14 referred to the chart depicting the high increases, and commented that the increases occurred during heavy rainfall periods. Mr. Hennings next commented on procedures used in the Brawner Parkway area determining infiltration problems and stated that this procedure could be expanded on a City-wide basis. Council Member Martin next inquired about the method of measuring a wastewater treatment plant's true wastewater demand. Mr. Hennings explained. Responding further, Mr. Hennings explained the City's camera crew duties and their current work schedules. Council Member Martin expressed concern that the infiltration issue was not being appropriately addressed. Then, Mr. Hennings discussed infiltration studies performed in other cities and mandates of the Environmental Protection Agency concerning such studies. Mr. Hennings agreed that minimizing infiltration would reduce the need for plant expansion. Council Member Martin suggested that an infiltration survey be performed in the Oso area to determine the infiltration extent. City Manager Garza discussed the work schedule of the City's camera crews, and stated that he would provide the Council with a copy of their day- to-day schedule. In addition, Mr. Garza agreed with Mr. Martin and stated that he would schedule an infiltration survey. Council Member Slavik inquired whether the City had equaled or exceeded the project growth in the Brown & Caldwell, Freese & Nichols report. Mr. Hennings answered that the report had anticipated a faster growth rate. Mr. Hennings referred to a chart depicting the City's FY 1993-94 and FY 1994-95 utility capital improvement needs. He discussed each improvement and outlined the costs of such. Responding to an inquiry from Council Member Moss, Mr. Hennings explained the importance of the Lake Texana Water Supply Conveyance Facilities. Further, Council Member McNichols discussed the "take or pay" provisions of the agreement. Referring to a chart, Mr. Hennings next discussed alternatives for increasing wastewater treatment capacity in the City. He explained specific mechanics and costs involved in the expansion of the Greenwood Drive Wastewater Treatment Plant, construction of a plant on the Yorktown Road site, and expansion of the Oso Water Reclamation Plant. Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Hennings discussed possible future diversion routes. Council Member Martin next inquired whether the Greenwood Drive expansion and Yorktown Road construction could be designed to allow daily changes in diversion routes. Council Member McNichols commented favorably on the diversion flexibility derived from this suggestion. Mr. Hennings then discussed the costs of the Greenwood Drive Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion in response to Council Member McComb. Mr. McComb then compared the cost to expand the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant to the construction of a new plant in the Southside area. Mr. McComb referred to the potential dangers at the Minutes Regular Co. .;il Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 15 Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant and expressed concern that a decision had not been made concerning the issue. City Manager Garza stated that the decision could be based on several factors. He stated that these factors would involve the sale of the City's natural gas distribution system, results from the study at the Allison Wastewater Treatment Plant, and TWC's future permitting requirements. Mr. Garza also stated that he anticipated TWC would work with the City because the study would be beneficial to them as well. He then commented favorably on the flexibility of diversion routes among the plants instead of the plants operating independently. A brief discussion ensued regarding future action, and Council Member McNichols stressed the importance of obtaining complete information before making permanent decisions. Council Member Slavik agreed with City Manager Garza's recommendation to further negotiate with TWC, and stressed the importance of examining the return flow projects. Mrs. Slavik also discussed reducing the flow at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant through expansion or construction of a new plant. Council Member Longoria also agreed with City Manager Garza's recommendations. Council Member Galindo inquired about controlling wastewater treatment plant odors, and City Manager Garza discussed odor control variances and costs. Council Member Moss inquired about the consultant's report concerning this issue at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant, and stressed the importance of resolving the issue. Council Member Martin referred to the costs of the City's capital improvement projects and stressed the importance of addressing the funding availability. He further stated that the current funding source for these projects would be borrowed funds. He next referred to the water and wastewater rates to taxpayers to support such a debt. Mr. Martin then stressed the importance of funds from the sale of the City's natural gas distribution system. He next commented that other funding alternatives should be addressed, but presently the sale appears to be the only alternative available to avoid a building permit shut down. Council Member Martin inquired about Council approval of the staffs projects list of priorities for FY 93-94 and FY 94-95. Mayor Rhodes commented that, through the day's workshop, Council concerns and questions were addressed, and suggested another workshop to address the available alternatives and specific costs. Mayor Rhodes commended the staff on the day's presentation. Council Member Martin then referred to the recent information provided to the Council concerning private development of a wastewater treatment plant. He requested that privatization of wastewater treatment plants and difficulties associated with the Oso Wastewater Treatment plant be addressed at the next workshop. Minutes Regular Co til Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 16 City Manager Garza stated that the City's long range plan was for the utility funds to be self -supportive with current revenues equaling current expenditures. He next commented that this would provide the City flexibility to borrow monies and discussed the six percent rate limitation which led to the suggestion of the State Revolving Loan Fund. Responding to Council Member Galindo, City Manager Garza further discussed the factors involved in the event of a building permit shut down. Then, Mr. Garza stated that the objective is to stay on top of the wastewater issues in the City. He then reviewed the suggestions from the day's meeting which would be addressed at the next wastewater workshop. Council Member Martin inquired about options regarding sludge, and Mr. Garza answered that an option was currently under review. Council Member Martin then commended the staff on the day's presentation, and requested staff to examine the infiltration issue. Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Garza announced the presentation on the water issues by Mr. James Dodson, Regional Water Director. Mayor Rhodes commented that the presentation involved the recent Edwards Aquifer Ruling. Mr. Dodson commented that the potential exists that water withdrawals from the Edwards Aquifer would be reduced by sixty percent in order to protect springflows during drought periods. He next discussed present water withdrawals from the Aquifer and difficulties involved in maintaining springflows and protecting the endangered species depending on the springs. He further discussed one proposal which was the development of additional Aquifer recharge capabilities in the Nueces River Basin. He stated that recent studies show that full development of proposed recharge enhancement structures within the Nueces River Basin could decrease reservoir system firm annual yields by 1.7 to 2.4 percent. He stated that monitoring proposed projects and insistence of any mitigation or compensation for impacts on our system yield should be continued. Mr. Dodson next discussed the importance of securing new surface water supplies. He referred to the Council's decision to obtain the option of purchasing water from Lake Texana and the Garwood Irrigation Company on the lower Colorado River, and discussed the importance of San Antonio's participation in the Trans -Texas Water Program. Mr. Dodson then discussed the implications of the use of the Federal Endangered Species Act to regulate water resources. He stressed the importance of protecting genetic diversity, but that the Endangered Species Act seemed to have been identified as a tool for achieving control of land and water resources for the benefit of various interest groups. Mr. Dodson then stated that supporting some of the efforts of Congress during the reauthorization of the Act is important to assure that man's needs are given equal consideration with environmental needs. Minutes Regular Cccil Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 17 Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Dodson stated that the Nueces River Basin is estimated to supply 49 percent of the recharge of the Edwards Aquifer. He further discussed the Nueces River Basin studies and commented on another phase being proposed which would determine impacts and cost estimates in which City involvement is pertinent. Mayor Rhodes referred to a recent letter from the Texas Water Development Board expressing appreciation to the City for support the conservation of the State's water resources, and read excerpts from the letter. She provided a copy of the letter to the City Manager. Next, Mayor Rhodes commented on her recent visit to Monterry, Mexico to attend the Quatro Caminos trade exhibit show, and stated that the City hoped to bid on the trade show in the future. She then commented highly on the speech by Henry Munoz, a Commissioner on the Texas Transportation Commission, at the trade show. Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports. Council Member Martin referred to his previous request for information on the retirees' medical insurance, and City Manager Garza stated that the information was available and that he would provide it to the Council. Mr. Martin further inquired whether the City's past Utility Advisory Committee would be beneficial in view of the important decisions facing the City. Council Member McNichols made a motion directing the staff to present an agenda item to the Council within two weeks containing a contract for the City to hire independent experts through the Corpus Christi State University to examine the materials and methods used to determine the release requirements for the interim order regarding operations of the reservoirs. The motion was seconded by Council Member McComb. A brief discussion developed, and Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote on the motion and the motion passed unanimously. Council Member Slavik inquired whether the staff was aware of the National Motor Voter Bill. She stated that the Bill consisted of changes to cities and state voting registration procedures along with cost increases. Mrs. Slavik further stated that this issue was discussed in the February 7, 1993, National League of Cities newspaper. Mrs. Slavik requested that staff contact the Texas Municipal League and inquire about their position on the issue. Mayor Rhodes stated that she would discuss the issue at the upcoming board meeting. Mayor Rhodes called for petitions from the audience. Mr. Phil Rosenstein, 949 Bobalo, commented unfavorably on the discontinuance of a Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) bus route which was utilized extensively by the elderly and disabled in the community. He additionally stated that services for the elderly and disabled were being decreased while services for the tourists and affluent were Minutes Regular Co. zit Meeting February 23, 1993 Page 18 increasing. He requested that the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Advisory Board review the circumstances. Council Member Galindo requested that City Manager Garza provide to the Council the costs of the discontinued route referenced by Mr. Rosenstein. Mr. Barry Pillinger, 6606 Clarion, referred to the recent meeting of the Transportation Advisory Committee in which the committee approved staff recommendations for street improvements in FY 92-93. He then requested, on behalf of the Pharaoh Valley Neighborhood Association, that priority be given to the implementation of Nile Drive improvements. Mayor Rhodes requested that Mr. Pillinger visit with her about this issue. Mr. Pillinger then discussed the difficulties at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant and requested Council action. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared the Council Meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m. on February 23, 1993.