HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 03/02/1993I 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 March 2, 1993, which were
approved by the City Council on March 9, 1993.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 23rd day of March, 1993.
SEAL
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
March 2, 1993
2 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Mary Rhodes
Mayor Pro Tem Edward Martin
Council Members:
Cezar Galindo
Dr. David McNichols
Betty Jean Longoria
Clif Moss
Mary Pat Slavik
ABSENT
Joe McComb
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 Chaplain Jenny Russell, following which the Pledge
of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was led by Council Member Slavik.
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 23, 1993, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as
presented.
Mayor Rhodes referred to the Board & Committee appointments and the following
appointments were made by the Council:
Minutes
Regular Cc cil Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 2
Building Standards Board
Leslie Baker (Realtor)
Alicia Cuellar (Attorney)
Harvey Houston (Clergyman)
Oil and Gas Advisory Committee
Lee Barberito (Oil Industry)
Andy Carson (General Public)
Jeff Bookout (Alt., Oil and Gas Well Industry)
David J. Mistrot (Alt., General Public)
Senior Community Services Advisory Committee
Elva Alba - Reappointed
Elva Gonzalez - Reappointed
Aileen Crieghton - Reappointed
John Dunn - Reappointed
Alicia Ruiz - Reappointed
Helene Fennessy
Marvena Jones (Agency Rep.)
Esther Oliver
Community Action Agency
Cezar Galindo (represented by Freddy Cavazos)
»»»»»»»»»»»»
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 1, motion accepting the resignation of
Council Member Joe McComb.
Mayor Rhodes stated that Council Member McComb was not present at the days
meeting because he was attending a meeting in Washington on behalf of the Work Force
Development Corporation. Mayor Rhodes next referred to the motion on the day's agenda
approving the resignation of Council Member McComb. The motion was made by Council
Member Galindo, seconded by Council Member McNichols.
Responding to Council Member Moss, City Secretary Chapa explained that, since
seven council members remained, four votes would be necessary for the passage of that
day's motions, resolutions, or ordinances. Mr. Chapa further explained voting procedures
for the period thirty days prior to the April 3, 1993 election. [A two-thirds vote of the
Council (5 votes), is necessary for the passage of any appropriation of money not included
in the budget, contract or obligations of the city created, franchises granted, or
zoning/rezoning ordinances passed or hearing held.]
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Regular Co zil Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 3
Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote on the motion, and the motion passed
unanimously (M93-067).
Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances
and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 2 through 15, and Council Members
requested that Items 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9 be withheld for discussion.
City Secretary Chapa announced that Council Member Martin had filed a Disclosure
of Interest Affidavit on Item 11 and would not discuss or vote on this item. Council
Member Longoria stated that she was filing a Disclosure of Interest Affidavit on Item 6 and
would not discuss or vote on that item.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were
passed:
2. M92-068
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with
Boole & Babbage, Inc. to upgrade existing mainframe software licensing for $27,149,
as a result of purchasing Exxon's mainframe.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
8. RESOLUTION NO. 021578
Resolution amending Resolution No. 021524 governing City elections in 1993, passed
on December 1, 1992 by amending Section 3 by removing Dorothy Himmel and
appointing Art Chavarria as Presiding Judge of the Early Voting Ballot Board and
Presiding Judge of the Central Counting Station.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
10. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager to execute a one-year lease with two one-year mutual
term options to renew with Efrain Guerrero, dba La Playa, to provide food service
at City Hall, for a fee of one percent of gross revenue.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
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Regular Co, ;,i1 Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 4
11. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a three-year lease with the
Bank of Corpus Christi to operate an automatic teller machine in the terminal of the
Corpus Christi International Airport for 33% of shared net income as monthly rent.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye'; Martin abstaining.
12. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a one-year lease agreement
with Royal In-Flite Catering, Inc. for 3304 square feet at the Corpus Christi
International Airport.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
13. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 36, Parks, Recreation, Cultural and
Leisure Time Activities by amending Article II, Convention Center and Coliseum,
by updating existing titles, facility names, deleting sections which are no longer
applicable and other housekeeping items.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye
14a. SECOND 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 second reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Slavik voting "Aye"; Moss voting "No."
14b. SECOND READING 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 second reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Slavik voting "Aye"; Moss voting "No."
Minutes
Regular Co. .,;il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 5
15. ORDINANCE NO. 021580
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.
The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes,
Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 3, motion to grant a three year time
extension to Section 2c of Ordinance No. 20893 which granted the Texas General Land
Office a Special Permit for mixed use development located along the J.F.K. Causeway and
on the east side of the Intercoastal Waterway.
Council Member McNichols inquired about the specific area involved, and reasons
for permitting travel trailer parks since these parks were not presently located in the area.
Mr. Brandol Harvey, Director of Planning, displayed slides depicting the area, and discussed
the time permit for the development of travel trailer parks. Responding further, Mr. Harvey
stated that the staff was not aware of any objections to the proposed travel trailer parks.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 4, motion authorizing the City
Manager to execute an agreement with Central Power & Light Company to install street
lighting improvements along Agnes Street.
Council Member Galindo commented that several businesses located along the Agnes
corridor between the North Port/Airport area preferred underground utility lines to further
enhance the area. He also discussed additional costs for this suggestion and stated that
underground utility lines conformed to the Westside Area Development Plan. Mr. Galindo
then requested an amendment to the motion providing for underground lighting in the
referenced area.
City Manager Garza stated that, upon Council Member Galindo's request, this
alternative had been examined by staff. He stated that the alternative consisted of concrete
poles with underground wiring on the northside and utilization of the existing poles on the
Southside. He stated that this alternative would cost an additional $36,000. Mr. Garza next
stated that staff initially examined utilization of underground lines in projects consistent with
previous Council direction. He also explained that the right-of-way lying between North
Port and Airport Road was too narrow to follow this directive.
Council Member Slavik referred to similar concerns she had received from local
merchants in the area. Responding, Mr. Tom Utter, Group Manager, Development
Services, explained that, if this alternative were used, overhead lines would still remain.
Mrs. Slavik commented favorably on the alternative.
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Regular Co, , it Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 6
Responding to Mayor Rhodes' inquiry, City Manager Garza explained the possible
use of landscaping funds in the project to support a change of the proposed lighting plan.
Council Member Longoria commented on the importance of appealing gateway
entrances to cities and supported the alternative.
Council Member Martin stressed the importance of underground utility lines, and
expressed concern that overhead cable would still be present. Mr. Martin next inquired
about the cost to locate all cables underground. Responding, Mr. Carl Crull, Director of
Engineering, explained existing lighting characteristics of the north and south sides.
Mr. Martin suggested that, in the area between North Port and Airport Road, all lights be
placed on the northside. Mr. Crull stated that this alternative would increase project costs
an additional $69,000. Mr. Crull further discussed this suggestion.
Council Member Martin stated support of underground utility lines in the City. He
further suggested that the City could possibly perform one less project per year to fund the
additional costs. Mr. Crull commented on the difficulties involved. Mr. Martin suggested
that staff draft an ordinance directing the relocation of utility lines underground when
feasible.
Further deliberation ensued, and Mayor Rhodes announced that Item 4 would be
withdrawn from consideration and returned to the Council at a later date.
Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Harvey discussed the advantages of
underground utility lines. Mr. Harvey further stated that underground utility lines were
more expensive initially than overhead cables, but less expensive when initially installed than
converting to underground cables at a later date.
Pursuant to Item 5, motion approving the purchase of ten additional police sedans
from Bay Chevrolet, Council Member Slavik inquired about the necessity of the purchase
in light of the previous purchase of police sedans. Further, Mrs. Slavik inquired about the
unit's availability for officers in the community.
City Manager Garza discussed recent police fleet modifications which provide a more
efficient system. Responding further, Mr. Garza commented that he was not aware of a
shortage of unmarked units.
Council Member Moss asked why this purchase was not included in the previous
purchase of police sedans. City Manger Garza discussed the cost of the units, and proposed
reduction of next year's purchase of units.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience.
Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, spoke against the purchase of the additional police
sedans.
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Regular Co. Ji Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 7
Police Chief Henry Garrett responded to Mr. Perez' concerns about excessive unit
availability and police units leaving the city limits unauthorized.
Mr. Adam Guerrero, 1549 Devon, inquired about unit availability to local police
officers. Police Chief Garrett explained that the purchase of the additional units would
provide less than one car per officer on duty at any given time.
Pursuant to Item 6, motion entering into a contract for the collection of delinquent
special assessment, demolition, and weed lien accounts with Calame, Linebarger, Graham
and Pena, Council Member Slavik inquired why other law firms did not submit proposals
on the contract. She further inquired about the past performance of this law firm. City
Manager Garza explained reasons other law firms did not submit proposals, and commented
favorably on the law firm's past performance and collection procedures.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
Pursuant to Item 7, motion approving an agreement between the City of Corpus
Christi and Nueces County for disposal of solid waste, Council Member Galindo inquired
about the additional .50 cents fee for each residential subscriber to the County contractor's
service. Mr. Garza replied that this fee was similar to the tipping fee charged to city
residents.
Next, Mr. Bob Bruner, Director of Solid Waste Services, explained the procedure
controlling the six cubic yard disposal limit and proposed .50 cents surcharge.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
Pursuant to Item 9, ordinance authorizing a contract with Nueces County for the
conduct of a joint election on April 3, 1993, Council Member Slavik inquired whether the
City Secretary's Office would be responsible for any county polling places located outside
of the city limits. City Secretary Chapa replied that the state representative precincts were
located within the city limits.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
3. M93-069
Motion to grant a three (3) year time extension to Section 2.c. of Ordinance No.
20893, passed and approved on March 20, 1990, which granted the Texas General
Land Office a Special Permit for mixed use development located along the J.F.K.
Causeway and on the east side of the Intercoastal Waterway.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
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Regular Co, ..il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 8
4. WITHDRAWN
Street between No. Port Avenue and the S.H. 358 Expressway, at a cost not to
e cca 000.
5. M93-070
Motion approving the purchase of ten additional police sedans in accordance with
the supply agreement approved by City Council February 2, 1993 from Bay Chevrolet
(formerly Benson Chevrolet). The total amount of the purchase is $125,260. The
sedans are replacement units.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
6. M93-071
Motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract for the collection of
delinquent special assessment, demolition, and weed lien accounts with Calame,
Linebarger, Graham and Pena.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Martin,
McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye"; Longoria abstaining.
7. M93-072
Motion approving an agreement between the City of Corpus Christi and Nueces
County for disposal of solid waste.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
9. ORDINANCE NO. 021579
Ordinance authorizing a contract with Nueces County for the conduct of a joint
election on April 3, 1993.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
.............
Mayor Rhodes called for consideration from the Regular Agenda.
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Regular Co. .;il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 9
Mayor Rhodes deviated from the regular agenda and called for Item 17, noting that
Mr. Michael Speed, Former Chair of the Mayor's Advisory Committee on Water Issues, was
present in the audience. She stated that Item 17 was a motion authorizing the City Manager
to execute an agreement with The Center for Statistical and Quality Improvement Services
at Corpus Christi State University for a fee not to exceed $78,400 to evaluate the procedures
that were used to establish the fresh water release requirements from Choke Canyon and
Lake Corpus Christi.
Mayor Rhodes briefly discussed the history leading to the study. She stated that the
City agreed to the interim operating plans for freshwater releases from Choke Canyon and
Lake Corpus Christi for a five year period as proposed by the Texas Water Commission.
Further, she stated that, during the five year period, the City would assess the methods used
to develop the fresh water release schedule, and, if the method proved faulty, would suggest
other workable solutions.
Mr. Speed introduced Mr. Edward R. Jones, Project Manager. Mr. Jones stated that
the study would provide the best scientific and expert advice on the Texas Water
Commission's proposed operating plans for freshwater releases from Choke Canyon and
Lake Corpus Christi.
Council Member Martin stressed the importance and the critical nature of the study.
He stated that these two aspects lead to several questions which must be addressed by
Mr. Jones for public information. Mr. Martin then inquired whether Mr. Jones had a
predetermined opinion or information from other sources concerning the conclusions of the
study. Mr. Jones commented in the negative. Mr. Martin further inquired whether the
individuals performing the study would determine the results based solely upon information
obtained through the study, and Mr. Jones affirmed.
Council Member McNichols further stressed the importance of the study. He stated
that a good scientific evaluation would provide answers to be used objectively for future
decisions concerning the fresh water release requirements.
Council Member Slavik inquired whether Mr. Jones believed the study was necessary.
Mr. Jones stated that this decision was a public policy decision. Mayor Rhodes then
commented that, when the City agreed to the interim order, the City also assured the public
that the data would be examined.
results.
Council Member Slavik also stressed the importance of a study based on unbiased
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience.
Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, commented unfavorably on the water releases as well
as the proposed study.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes
Regular Cot .11 Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 10
17. M93-074
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with
The Center for Statistical and Quality Improvement Services at Corpus Christi State
University for a fee not to exceed $78,400 to evaluate the procedures that were used
to establish the fresh water release requirements from Choke Canyon and Lake
Corpus Christi.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
Martin, McNichols, Moss, and Slavik voting "Aye."
Mayor Rhodes opened discussions on Items 16a and 16b, motion and ordinance on
the joint award with the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) concerning the 800 MHz
trunked radio system contract with Dailey -Wells Communications, Inc.
City Manager Garza discussed previous concerns regarding the maintenance of the
radio system. He stated that the results of the investigation proved satisfactory. Mr. Garza
further discussed the disadvantages of City staff performing the maintenance which were
revealed through a recent evaluation.
Mr. John Bacon, Director of Municipal Information Services, responded to several
questions posed by Council Member Galindo regarding the best and final offer figures and
evaluation formula used in the selection. Council Member Galindo then stated that the low
bid was $30,000 lower than the selected bid, and expressed concern that the low bid was not
chosen. In response, City Manager Garza stated that Dailey -Wells Communications, Inc.
submitted the best competitive proposal. He further stated that the selection was based
upon overall evaluation criteria.
Responding to Council Member Martin, City Manager Garza explained the State law
governing high technology procurement such as this contract. Further, Mr. Garza reviewed
the determining criteria. He next stated that staff felt Dailey -Wells Communications, Inc.
possessed superior abilities regarding personnel, experience, inventory, and various items
involving technical merit.
Responding further, Mr. Bacon discussed the bid evaluation formula and the bidder's
experience with comparable systems. Council Member Martin expressed concern that prior
experience with comparable systems was a consideration. Mr. Bacon commented that the
original manufacturer, Ericsson GE Mobil Communications, Inc., also possessed prior
experience.
Mr. Bacon then responded to several questions from Council Member Martin
regarding A&B Electronics, Inc. and bids in the best and final offers document.
A brief discussion ensued.
Council Member Slavik commented favorably on in-house performance of the
maintenance, and inquired whether staff was concerned with past complaints about Dailey-
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Regular Cot._ .;il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 11
Wells Communications, Inc. City Manager Garza commented that maintenance provided
in-house would not be less expensive. He further stated that the creation of an
intergovernmental department performing maintenance for other governmental entities as
well as the City could possibly reduce the costs and allow for in-house maintenance. In
response to Council Member Slavik's second inquiry, Mr. Garza discussed potential
managing and auditing procedures presently under review for the maintenance contract.
Mr. Garza further stated that prior investigations did not reveal reasons the contract should
not be awarded to Dailey -Wells Communications, Inc.
Mayor Rhodes stated that Mr. Garza's suggestion regarding the City working with
other governmental entities for radio maintenance could be addressed in the future when
circumstances dictated.
Council Member Galindo referred to the figures estimating the vehicle
install/removal estimated in the best and final offers, and City Manager Garza explained.
Council Member Galindo then expressed concern that staff felt that A&B Electronics, Inc.
could not sufficiently perform the contract. Mayor Rhodes referred to Mr. Bacon's prior
comment that A&B Electronics, Inc. would require six months to gain experience on the
City's radio system.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience.
Mr. Eric Wramp, President of the Corpus Christi Police Officers Association,
commented unfavorably on the selection procedures and selection of Dailey -Wells
Communications, Inc. Mr. Wramp further pointed out several discrepancies in the agenda
material. Mr. Wramp also expressed concern that the contract did not contain sufficient
obligatory language for the contractor to provide adequate services during a hurricane.
Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Wramp stated he felt the radio
maintenance should be performed in-house.
In response to Council Member Slavik's request, City Manager Garza discussed the
training and skill required to perform the maintenance in-house and recent actions regarding
the City's radio maintenance personnel.
Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, inquired whether an elected official had examined
the results of the prior investigation involving the radio maintenance contract. Responding,
City Manager Garza stated that the Police Chief had reviewed the results.
Mr. Richard Wells, President and owner of Dailey -Wells Communications, Inc.,
reviewed his company's credentials and qualifications to perform the maintenance contract.
Responding to Council Member Longoria, Mr. Wells discussed his company's local
office personnel and certifications. Responding further, Mr. Wells discussed contract
obligations during hurricane conditions.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes
Regular Cot. _,;il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 12
16a. M93-073
Motion to jointly award with the RTA, based upon the most advantageous
competitive proposal, a two-year contract with Daily & Wells Communication, Inc.,
estimated at $279,173 per year for maintenance of the 800 mhz trunked radio system.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria,
McNichols, and Moss "Aye"; Martin and Slavik voting "No."
16b. ORDINANCE NO. 021581
Ordinance appropriating $70,000 from the Municipal Information Systems
Unreserved Fund for radio maintenance and related expenditures; amending
Ordinance No. 021441, which adopted the FY 92-93 budget, by adding $70,000 to
Municipal Information Systems Fund No. 133.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following
vote: Rhodes, Galindo, Longoria, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Martin and
Slavik voting "No."
Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Garza discussed
the early payments recently received from the Industrial District. Council Member Martin
inquired whether the Industrial District contracts contained language concerning penalties
for late payments. City Manager Garza stated that staff would examine this aspect.
Mayor Rhodes read a letter received from Mr. Keith Arnold, President of the Corpus
Christi Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, discussing the possibility of a large welcoming
sign near the Nueces Park Visitors Center. Mayor Rhodes requested that the City Manager
investigate that possibility.
Mayor Rhodes next inquired about training for Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
City Manager Garza discussed an option currently under review for the training services to
be provided by Del Mar College.
Mayor Rhodes referred to the material provided to the Council regarding the
retirees' insurance. City Manager Garza explained that, to reduce health insurance
premiums, health coverage must be reduced or deductibles must be increased. Responding
further, Mr. Garza stated that combining the retiree's insurance with active member's
insurance would not reduce the cost, but would increase the cost for all participants, or the
City. Mr. Garza further explained city subsidies required to reduce the retiree's insurance
premiums at different levels outlined in a report to the Council.
Council Member Martin expressed concern about the retiree's rate increases.
Mr. Martin commented that the retiree's increases could have been a result of a
miscalculation of medical costs estimates setting the rates, or several expensive illnesses last
year, or a combination of both. Mr. Martin then inquired whether the higher rates were due
to a loss or to current insurance costs. Mr. Garza responded. Mr. Martin then stated that
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Regular COL ;il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 13
retirees should be responsible for one hundred percent of their medical costs, but should
be able to participate in the City's group insurance. Responding further to Mr. Martin,
Mr. Garza discussed the insurance plan for police and fire retirees. Mr. Martin inquired
whether there was a method to recover last year's loss over a period of five to six years
which might ameliorate the increased rates.
A discussion developed regarding recent rate increases of retirees as compared to
active members.
Mr. Martin inquired whether the City had opened the bids on the administration of
the City's health insurance, and Mr. Garza confirmed. Mr. Martin then referred to a letter
from Travelers Insurance Company criticizing the bidding process, and Mr. Garza discussed
the circumstances involved. Mr. Martin suggested the City Manager respond to the letter.
Lastly, Mr. Martin commended the staff on the good analysis performed on the City's
radio maintenance. He further stated that his vote reflected his discontent with the bidding
process used, and inquired whether the bid approach would not have been more effective
utilizing a low bid type of process. Mr. Martin further commented that he had confidence
in the investigation performed by staff and the Police Chief regarding prior concerns
regarding the radio maintenance of the City. He also supported the staff's selection for the
maintenance contract.
Mayor Rhodes commented unfavorably on health insurance which discouraged
preventative measures.
Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports.
Council Member McNichols referred to a recent letter from Mr. Mike Werbiski,
President of the Corpus Christi Firefighters Association. Dr. McNichols provided a copy
of the letter to City Manager Garza for staff review of the referenced issues. Next,
Dr. McNichols raised questions regarding a recent letter from Encycle/Texas, Inc., and
requested that City Manager Garza address this issue also.
Council Member Moss inquired about the City's health insurance administrator
bidding process, and City Manager Garza explained the deadline extension. Council
Member Moss then referred to a letter he received from a business on Holly Road inquiring
about the Holly Road street improvements. Mr. Garza gave an update on the project.
Council Member Moss inquired about a City Fire Department truck he recently observed
in the City, and City Manager Garza explained that a beverage truck had been converted
into a HAZMAT unit. Further, Mr. Moss discussed a Cellular One advertisement he
recently saw on television which displayed the City of Corpus Christi Police Department's
insignia in the background. City Manager Garza stated that he would investigate the matter.
Council Member Longoria referred to the McKinzie Road project. Further,
Mrs. Longoria extended an invitation to the Council for the dedication ceremony of Nueces
River Park on March 16, 1993. Lastly, Mrs. Longoria discussed her recent meetings with
Mr. Frank Schwing, Nueces County Commissioner, regarding assistance to the senior citizens
Minutes
Regular Cot._ _il Meeting
March 2, 1993
Page 14
and youths in the northwest area. She stated that Mr. Schwing offered assistance through
the Sheriffs Prisoners Utilization Release System (SPURS) Program. City Manager Garza
stated that the City currently utilized this program. A brief discussion ensued regarding this
program.
Council Member Slavik inquired whether workshops scheduled during council
meetings could be held separately instead. Council Member Slavik next referred to the
Desalinization Report provided to the Council. She stated that the report contained
information concerning potable water, but not information concerning raw water. Council
Member McNichols discussed the difficulties involved regarding the production of raw water
through desalinization. Further, Dr. McNichols stated that desalinized raw water for
industrial use was presently more expensive than other recently identified water sources.
Further discussion developed on this matter, and Council Member Martin commented on
the possibility of enclosing the water distribution flow system as an alternative in the distant
future.
Council Member Galindo requested that the City Manager provide the Council with
a report regarding the use of the SPURS Program by the City.
Mayor Rhodes called for petitions from the audience.
Mrs. Marissa Hogan, 2634 Debra, requested assistance from the Council regarding
the mosquito problems in the Flour Bluff area and discussed possible solutions. A broad
discussion ensued regarding this issue, and Mayor Rhodes requested the City Manager to
meet with Mrs. Hogan to discuss the issue further.
Mr. Jimmy Till, 1265 Southern Minerals Road, discussed a hazardous traffic condition
existing at the intersection of Southern Minerals Road and Sedwick Road. City Manager
Garza stated that he would investigate the condition.
Mr. Johnny Montalvo complimented the Mayor, Council Members, and the Regional
Transportation Authority for their fine work in the community.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared
the Council Meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m. on March 2, 1993.
.............