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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 04/27/1993I 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 April 27, 1993, which were approved by the City Council on May 4, 1993. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this the 6th day of May, 1993. SEAL Armando Chapa City Secretary MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting April 27, 1993 2 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Mary Rhodes Council Members: Jack Best Melody Cooper Cezar Galindo Dr. David McNichols Edward Martin Clif Moss ABSENT Mayor Pro Tem Betty Jean Longoria David Noyola 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 Moss. Mayor Rhodes made a motion to excuse Council Members Longoria and Noyola from the day's meeting. She stated that Council Member Longoria was attending a meeting in Laredo on her behalf and Council Member Noyola was in the hospital. The motion was seconded by Council Member Best, and passed unanimously. Council Member Best commended the Windsor Park Fifth Grade DARE Choir in their performance of a song presentation before the day's council 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. Minutes Regular Cc cil Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 2 Mayor Rhodes called for approval of the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of April 20, 1993, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as presented. Mayor Rhodes introduced Ambassador William Crook, Chairman of the Las Carabelas Columbus Association, present at the days council meeting. Ambassador Crook announced that the City of Corpus Christi had been selected to display the Columbus Carabelas as a museum and public attraction on Corpus Christi Bay. Ambassador Crook expressed appreciation to local individuals and organizations for their efforts in obtaining the vessels. Ambassador Crook reviewed the initial and future funding sources, and commented that the City would not be responsible for any funding associated with the venture. Ambassador Crook then introduced Mr. Rafael Mazarrasa, President of Spain '92 Foundation. Mr. Mazarrasa commented that the ships represented a symbol of the cultural ties between the Old World and the New. Mr. Mazarrasa further congratulated the City on their success. Mayor Rhodes expressed appreciation to the Las Carabelas Columbus Association, the J. (Jack) E. Smothers Memorial Foundation, the Devary Durrill Foundation, and the Corpus Christi Area Economic Development Corporation for their efforts. Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 1 through 11, and Council Members requested that Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, and 11 be withheld for discussion. Mayor Rhodes announced that Item 7 would be withdrawn from consideration at the day's meeting. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 7. WITHDRAWN Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration, Division 16, Airport Advisory Committee, Scctions 2 175 and 2 176. 8. ORDINANCE NO. 021637 Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 53, Traffic, Section 53-252, Schedule III - Parking "Prohibited at All Times on Certain Streets" by prohibiting curbside parking along both sides of Williams Drive at all times between a point 900 feet east of Everhart Road and Staples Street and along both sides of Corona Drive from Everhart Road to its terminus 900 feet east of Everhart Road. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. Minutes Regular Co cil Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 3 9. ORDINANCE NO. 021638 Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 53, Traffic, Section 53-254, Schedule V, Increase of State Speed Limit in Certain Zones by reducing the speed limit from 50 MPH to 45 MPH on Saratoga Boulevard (S.H. 357) between Kostoryz Road to a point 300 feet west of Weber Road. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. Pursuant to Item 1, motion approving a supply agreement for wrecker service for City -owned vehicles and equipment, Council Member Moss stated that he did not object to the prices submitted in the bids. He next expressed concern that City vehicles required the wrecker services extensively which was a poor reflection on the City's Maintenances Services. Further, Mr. Moss inquired about the separation of the Fire Department's maintenance from the main vehicle fleet maintenance. City Manager Garza referred to the large number of vehicles in the City's fleet, and discussed the necessity for the towing services. Mr. Moss then requested that information be obtained from other similar cities regarding their towing services in order to make a comparison. City Manager Garza stated that he would provide such a comparison. Further, Mr. Garza explained that the separate maintenance services on the Fire Department's vehicles reduced the overall maintenance cost and downtime of the vehicles. He stated that he would provide a copy of the report determining these factors. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Pursuant to Item 2, motion approving the purchase of a tractor/loader/mower, Council Member Martin referred to previous Council concerns about the low number of bids being received on City items. Dr. McNichols also pointed out that this item received only one bid. Mr. F. D. Glenn, Purchasing Agent, explained the uniqueness of the equipment. Mr. Glenn further discussed the results of the telephone inquiries to local businesses about their lack of interest to bid on the item. City Manager Garza stated that a survey could be made of local businesses ascertaining the reasons they were not bidding on City items and obtaining their opinions of the City's specifications. Council Member Moss agreed with Mr. Martin, and inquired whether bidders objected to the City's red tape. Mr. Glenn replied that this could be a possibility. Further, Mr. Moss inquired whether other cities were faced with similar circumstances, and Mr. Glenn replied that the situation was not uncommon. City Manager Garza commented on past seminars, through the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, familiarizing local small businesses with the City's bidding procedures. He recommended that another seminar be scheduled in the near future. Responding to Council Member Best, Mr. Glenn reviewed the localities available to bid on City items and reviewed the bid specifications of Item 2. Minutes Regular Co. :,i1 Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 4 Council Member McNichols referred to the recent information provided to the Council regarding the City's competitive bidding process. Dr. McNichols suggested that, when an item had a low number of bids, an explanation be provided to the Council in the agenda material. Council Member Galindo requested information concerning past purchases of the tractor/loader/mower equipment. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Pursuant to Item 3, approval of a contract for the annual financial and compliance audit, Council Member Cooper inquired whether KPMG Peat Marwick provided other services to the City. City Manager Garza stated that he was not aware of other contracts at this time. Mr. Garza explained that contracts under $10,000 did not require Council approval. Council Member Cooper then requested information concerning past contracts under $10,000 with KPMG Peat Marwick. City Manager Garza stated that he would provide such information. Council Member Moss suggested that a budget or finance committee meet quarterly with the auditors. Mayor Rhodes suggested that the Operations Analysis Committee, which is chaired by Mr. Moss, be responsible for the meetings. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Pursuant to Item 4, setting the CDBG public hearing before the City Council for May 11, 1993, Council Member McNichols stated that he did not oppose delaying the public hearing. Dr. McNichols then posed several questions concerning the funding from the Economic Stimulus Program and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. City Manager Garza discussed the potential funding. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Pursuant to Item 5, approval of a Senior Companion Program (SCP) Grant Renewal for 1993-94, Council Member Moss compared the number of volunteers to the senior citizens in the program, and inquired about the volunteer's expenses. City Manager Garza reviewed the volunteer's reimbursements and stated that these costs were minimal when compared to the number of hours the volunteers donated. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Items 6a and 6b, motion and ordinance regarding the Change Order to the contract with Winship Construction Company for the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Facility (ARFF) at the Corpus Christi International Airport (CCIA). Council Member Galindo inquired about the change order. City Manager Garza explained that, since the concrete support structure was shown on the plumbing plans and Minutes Regular Co. 2,i1 Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 5 not on the structural plans, the contractor did not include the cost for the structure. Mr. Carl Crull, Director of Engineering, confirmed that the selected contractor's bid remained the lowest bid. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 10, ordinance authorizing the lease agreement with John Russo and Thomas W. Stewart for a tract of land to be used for material storage. Council Member Cooper inquired whether the City owned land which could be utilized for this purpose. City Manager Garza explained that the City did not possess land in this area containing a railroad spur. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Pursuant to Item 11, ordinance authorizing the ten-year lease of the Old Police Station to the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation (CCCIC), Council Member McNichols pointed out that the two changes requested by Council (Sections 10b and 30) were not included in the agenda material. A brief discussion ensued, and it was determined that the two changes were in the agreement presented to Council Member McNichols for signature. Further, City Attorney Bray stated that the item presently before the Council also included the requested changes. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 1. M93-127 Motion approving a supply agreement for wrecker service for City -owned vehicles and equipment in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0155-93 with WDH Enterprises, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $26,320. The term of the agreement 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 Maintenance Services and the Fire Department in FY 92-93. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 2. M93-128 Motion approving the purchase of the following items in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0136-93, based on an only bid and low bid. The equipment is budgeted by the appropriate departments in the 1992-93 Capital Outlay as replacement equipment. Minutes Regular Co. .;i1 Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 6 Nueces Ford Tractor Corpus Christi Tractor/Loader/Mower $23,665.00 (Wastewater Services) Gulf Tractor Company Corpus Christi Weed Cutter $6,695.00 (Aviation) TOTAL OF AWARDS: $30,360.00 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 3. M93-129 Motion authorizing the award of a contract in the estimated amount of $68,000 to KPMG Peat Marwick to perform the financial and compliance audit for fiscal year ending July 31, 1993. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 4. M93-130 Motion to amend Motion M93-011 dated January 12, 1993, amending the CDBG timetable to set the City Council public hearing on May 11, 1993, rather than on May 4th. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 5. M93-131 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit a renewal grant application and execute a contract with ACTION for the continuation of the Senior Companion Program. The total budget for 1993-1994 is $223,849, which includes $163,458 in federal grant funds and $60,391 in City match. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 6a. M93-132 Motion approving Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $18,963 to the contract with Winship Construction Company for the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Facility (ARFF) to provide elevated storage tanks for firefighting foam and water refill capabilities. Minutes Regular Co. it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 7 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 6b. ORDINANCE NO. 021643 Ordinance appropriating $17,066.70 as the Federal Aviation Administration's estimated participation in the cost of Change Order No. 1 applicable to Project No. 245-611-603.71-593, Airport Rescue and Firefighting Facility. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. 10. ORDINANCE NO. 021639 Authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute a two-year lease agreement with John Russo and Thomas W. Stewart, for a tract of land located at Resaca and Sam Rankin Street, to be used by the City's Street Department for material storage, for a rental fee of $300 per month, with the option to renew for additional two-year periods under the same terms and conditions. The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Martin, Moss, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Galindo voting "Ne; Longoria and Noyola absent. 11. ORDINANCE NO. 021640 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a ten-year lease of the old Police station to the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation. The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye; Longoria and Noyola absent. ............. Mayor Rhodes called for considerations from the Regular Agenda. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 12, amending the zoning ordinance by amending Article 28A - "HC Historical -Cultural Landmark Preservation. Mayor Rhodes inquired whether Council Member McNichols would like to comment on the item. Dr. McNichols stated that he had previously voiced his objection and did not wish to comment on the item at this time. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes Regular Co,. dl Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 8 12. ORDINANCE NO. 021641 Amending the Zoning Ordinance by amending Article 28A - "HC" Historical -Cultural Landmark Preservation, by deleting said article in its entirety and substituting therefore a new Article 28A. The foregoing ordinance passed on third reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Martin, and Moss voting "Aye"; Galindo and McNichols voting "No"; Longoria and Noyola absent. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 13, motion authorizing the contract with Lone Star Administrators for group health administrative services and insurance coverages. City Secretary Chapa announced that Council Member McNichols had filed a Disclosure of Interest Affidavit on Item 13 and would not vote or discuss the item. City Manager Garza explained that Item 13b (specific and aggregate re -insurance for health claims with Insurance Company of North America for an annually estimated amount of $195,185) and Item 13c (the life insurance by the Insurance Company of North America for an annually estimated amount of $218,341) would be withdrawn from consideration at the day's meeting. He further stated that the City would rebid these two items. He stated that Item 13a (self-funded groups health claims administration by Lone Star Administrators/Spohn PHO for an annually estimated amount of $403,334) could be discussed and voted upon at the days meeting. City Manager Garza reviewed the changing insurance industry. He compared past health care benefits and procedures for providing these benefits to the present benefits and procedures. Further, Mr. Garza discussed the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing the networks established by the health care providers in the area. Through the use of a chart, City Manager compared the City's present self-funded group health program to the Lone Star Administrators/Spohn PHO plan (LSA/SPHO) and the Acordia Small Business Benefits of the Southwest plan (Acordia). Mr. Garza also discussed the difficulties encountered with Acordia in obtaining a written confirmation concerning their stop loss factors and rates. Council Member Martin announced that Mayor Rhodes had filed a Disclosure of Interest affidavit and would not vote or discuss the item. Responding to Council Member Best, City Manager Garza stated that LSA/SPHO disclosed all information when requested in order for the City to appropriately evaluate their proposals. Council Member Galindo inquired about the aggregate stop -loss levels of the proposals listed on the chart, and a discussion ensued. Minutes Regular Co. .;,i1 Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 9 Responding to Council Member Cooper, City Manager Garza stated that the proposals had not been presented to City employees. Further, Mr. Garza commented that LSA/SPHO extended an offer to Memorial Medical Center (MMC) to join their PHO and become a primary provider to the City. Council Member Martin inquired about the withdrawal of Items 13b and 13c. City Manager Garza explained that these items required bidding separately. Responding further, Mr. Garza discussed the actuary utilized to determine the comparison estimates. Next, Mr. Martin inquired about the effects of changing the City's insurance plan on City employees currently under medical care. Mr. Garza explained the short and long term effects. Next, Mr. Pat Alba, Director of Risk Management, stated that a large percentage of the physicians on the current plan would also be available on the LSA/SPHO plan. Next, Mr. Martin inquired about the entities utilizing the LSA/SPHO and Acordia plans. Mr. Alba reviewed the entities utilizing the LSA/SPHO and Acordia plans. Council Member Cooper referred to the low number of entities utilizing LSA/SPHO as well as the low number of bidders on the insurance. City Manager Garza commented that this plan and concept was relatively new to the market. Council Member Cooper inquired about MMC joining the LSA/SPHO, and expressed concern that some employees would have to experience a change of physicians. Mr. Garza stated that many physicians were on both plans. Mr. Garza further stated that the offer by LSA/SPHO to MMC was under review. Council Member Martin called for comments from the audience on Item 13a. Ms. Frances Smith, Executive Director of Spohn PHO, discussed the advantages of the LSA/SPHO plan. Responding to Council Member Moss, Ms. Smith stated that PHO was an abbreviation for "physician -hospital organization." Mr. Bob Corrigan, agent for the current LSA/MMC plan, discussed the benefits of renewing the City's current plan, and commented on the disadvantages of changing plans at this time. He further stated that the current plan was effective and had not been in effect an ample length of time to appropriately determine effectiveness. Responding to Council Member Galindo, Mr. Corrigan stated that the actual claims paid for March 1, 1992 through February 28, 1993 was approximately $8 million Council Member Moss inquired about the percentages of employee utilization, and Mr. Corrigan reviewed the percentages. He further stated that utilization of the City's plan was not excessive. Additionally, Mr. Moss inquired as to the reasons Mr. Corrigan's plan was not utilized by other tax supported entities. Mr. Corrigan replied that other entities might use another agent in which the negotiated arrangements proved less effective than the City's. Responding further, Mr. Corrigan compared the City's current plan to the Corpus Christi Independent School District plan. Mr. W. Ashley Harden, Vice President of Acordia Small Business Benefits of the Southwest, Inc., reviewed the advantages of his plan. Mr. Harden pointed out that the Minutes Regular Co, , it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 10 administration services fee associated with the LSA/SPHO was considerably larger than his proposal. He stated that his company had made every effort to provide the City with ample information and that further information was to be provided when he was informed that his proposal was being considered seriously. A broad discussion ensued about the proposals. In response to Mr. Corrigan's comments, City Manager Garza stated that the 1992-93 estimate quoted by Mr. Corrigan was approximately $9 million In response to Mr. Harden's comments, Mr. Garza referred to a letter from Mr. Harden stating that First Choice would provide additional discounts based on the utilization of the facilities; and further, that, in the event his company's proposal was accepted, a copy of the agreements between Acordia and the medical providers would be provided to the City. Mr. Garza then commented that staff believed LSA/SPHO would yield the greatest savings to the City. Council Member Martin commented that he supported Mr. Garza's recommendation with the understanding that the new plan would not disrupt current employee health care treatment. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their vote as follows: 13. M93-133 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to enter into a contract with Lone Star Administrators for group health administrative services and insurance to more specifically provide the following: . .. .. . ..1 a. Self-funded Group Health Claims Administration by Lone Star Administrators/Spohn PHO for an annually estimated amount of $403,334. b. Specific and Aggregate re insurance for health claims with Insurance a for an annually estimated amount of $195,185. c. Life Insurance by the Insurance Company of North America for an annually estimated amount of $218,311. The foregoing motion (13a) passed by the following vote: Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, and Moss voting "Aye"; Rhodes and McNichols abstaining; Longoria and Noyola absent. (Items 13b and 13c were withdrawn from consideration). Council Member Galindo requested City Manager Garza to provide a special telephone number for inquiries about the City's insurance plan. Council Member Martin called for a recess. Minutes Regular Co. it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 11 Mayor Rhodes reconvened the Regular Council Meeting. Council Member Martin inquired whether Mayor Rhodes and Council Member McNichols should refrain from discussing or voting on Items 14 or 15. City Attorney Bray replied that this would not be necessary. Mayor Rhodes opened the discussion on Item 14, motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract for renewal of the existing agreement for the INC Section 125 Cafeteria Plan administration with Great American Reserve Insurance Company with an estimated annual cost of $30,520. Council Member Moss suggested that quotation marks be used around the word, "cafeteria," to distinguish the unique use of the words. Council Member Martin inquired as to the reason staff did not recommend the Colonial proposal. City Manager Garza explained that Colonial required meeting with City employees during City time to market their other benefit products. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 14. M93-134 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to enter into a contract for renewal of the existing agreement for the INC Section 125 Cafeteria Plan administration with Great American Reserve Insurance Company with an estimated annual cost of $30,520. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. Mayor Rhodes announced the discussion on Item 15, motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract for the voluntary dental program. Council Member Best stated that he would abstain from discussing or voting on the item. Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Alba discussed the benefits of the plan. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 15. M93-135 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to enter into a contract for the voluntary Dental Program with Corpus Christi Dental Plan with an estimated annual cost of $83,676. Minutes Regular Co, it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 12 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Best abstaining; Longoria and Noyola absent. Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following closure and abandonment: 16. Ordinance closing and abandoning the 60 -foot right-of-way of Esenjay Drive extending south of FM 624 and west of State Highway 77 within the Nueces Towne West Subdivision; and closing and abandoning a 10 -foot wide by 348.28 -foot long utility easement which extends along each side of the common line between Lot 4 and Lot 5, Block 1, Nueces Towne West Subdivision; subject to replatting the property within 180 days, and meeting specified conditions. Mayor Rhodes inquired whether there were any objections to the closure and abandonment. No one opposed. Council Member Martin moved to close the public hearing; seconded by Council Member Galindo, and passed unanimously. Responding to Council Members Martin and Galindo, Mr. Crull explained that staff felt the dedication of the new utility easements would sufficiently compensate for the City's easement interest. Further, Mr. Crull explained the locations of the street and easements. Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their vote as follows: 16. ORDINANCE NO. 021642 Ordinance closing and abandoning the 60 -foot right-of-way of Esenjay Drive extending south of FM 624 and west of State Highway 77 within the Nueces Towne West Subdivision; and closing and abandoning a 10 -foot wide by 348.28 -foot long utility easement which extends along each side of the common line between Lot 4 and Lot 5, Block 1, Nueces Towne West Subdivision; subject to replatting the property within 180 days, and meeting specified conditions. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Cooper, Galindo, Martin, McNichols, and Moss voting "Aye"; Longoria and Noyola absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Council went into closed session pursuant to Article 6252-17, Sec. 2(e), V.A.C.S., regarding the following: In the matter of the Executive Director's Preliminary Enforcement Report concerning the City of Corpus Christi; Permit No. 10401-04, before the Texas Water Minutes Regular Co, , it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 13 Commission; Executive Director's Petition for Order assessing administrative penalties and requiring certain actions of the City of Corpus Christi. (Order regarding wastewater collection system bypasses primarily in Brawner Parkway area.) The Council returned from closed session. Mayor Rhodes announced the discussion on the legal requirements for the meetings of the Corpus Christi Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC). City Attorney Bray referred to Attorney John D. Bell's letter addressing whether the EDC was subject to the provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act. He stated that the EDC was not subject to the Act since the EDC was a nonprofit corporation and was not a deliberative body having rule-making or quasi-judicial power or classified as a department, agency, or political subdivision of a county of city. Next, City Manager Garza referred to the previous Council concern, parking in the 1800 block of Alameda Street. Mr. Garza also referred to the study performed by a consultant through the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and the meetings among City staff, merchants, and residents to ascertain the appropriate parking for the area. He stated that the street widening and on -street diagonal parking was approved by the staff as well as the Del Mar Neighborhood Association. Mr. Carl Crull, Director of Engineering, displayed a map of the Six Points area. Responding to Council Member Moss, Mr. Crull pointed out the relevant street dimensions which would sufficiently allow for the on -street diagonal parking. He further stated that the recent improvements and developments in the area would create a pedestrian -oriented environment. Council Member Moss also inquired about other parking in the area, and Mr. Crull discussed the proposed improvements. Next, Council Member Moss expressed concern that the Council was not informed about the on -street diagonal parking and proposed improvements before the construction commenced. Council Member Martin commented that staff did not customarily recommend angle parking because of safety concerns. Next, Mr. Crull discussed other areas in town utilizing diagonal and horizonal parking. Council Member Best discussed the benefits of installing a traffic signalization at the intersection of South Alameda and Clifford Street. Mr. Crull discussed this possibility. Mr. Crull then stated that Mr. Tom Niskala, RTA General Manager, informed him that the street improvements included conduit under the street for traffic signalization, if the traffic signalization were deemed appropriate in the future. Council Member Cooper expressed concern about vehicular and pedestrian safety in the area, and agreed with the traffic signalization. Mrs. Cooper further inquired whether Minutes Regular Co,.., it Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 14 the speed limit could be lowered and whether traffic warning signs could be placed in appropriate locations. Council Member McNichols stated that he traveled the area frequently, and expressed concern that the on -street diagonal parking would be hazardous. Council Member Best made a motion to install a traffic signal light at the intersection of Clifford Street and South Alameda and also reduce the speed limit from 30 MPH to 25 MPH on South Alameda in the Six Points area, seconded by Council Member Cooper. City Attorney Bray commented that an ordinance would be required to change the current speed limit. Mayor Rhodes stated that Dr. Best's motion called for the items to be brought back to the Council for approval. Mayor Rhodes called for a voice vote on the motion and the motion passed unanimously. City Manager Garza commented that the traffic signalization and reduced speed limit would be submitted to the Transportation Advisory Board before returning to the Council. No City Manager's report. Mayor Rhodes referred to a recent incident in the North Beach area wherein inadequate parking resulted in improper parking on private property. City Manager Garza referred to a parking plan agreed to by the Texas State Aquarium and the U. S. Lexington Museum, which would be presented to the Council soon. Next, Mayor Rhodes referred to complaints she received about juvenile vandalism in residential areas with through streets. She also referred to a barricade device, "boon," used in the State of Missouri which discouraged outside traffic. City Manager Garza stated that he was familiar with the device and would obtain further information. Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports. Council Member Martin inquired about the status of the City's adult softball privatization. City Manager Garza discussed the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee's recommendations. Council Member Martin expressed concern about the delay in addressing the Council's directive concerning the issue. Next, Council Member Martin referred to the memorandum canceling upcoming Council Meetings and suggested that each meeting be addressed on an individual basis. Additionally, Mr. Martin expressed concern that Council inquires were not always addressed promptly. Further, Mr. Martin referred to his previous concern regarding local merchants utilizing store parking lots for carnivals, storage, and vending. Next, Mr. Martin referred to overweight vehicles operating in the City. He expressed concern about damage to City streets by these vehicles. He further stated that he did not believe in prohibiting trucks on City streets, and inquired whether scales were utilized in the City. City Manager Garza stated that scales were not used. Mr. Martin discussed the statistics relating to overweight Minutes Regular Co, _zil Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 15 trucks traveling on streets, and suggested that the City implement spot checking procedures in the City. Council Member Best agreed with Mr. Martin's concerns about overweight trucks. Further deliberation ensued, and it was determined that staff would perform a survey on the number of overweight vehicles traveling on City streets, including, but not limited to, City garbage trucks, etc., and that an agenda item would be presented to the Council for discussion regarding this subject. Council Member McNichols inquired about the contract for the potential sale of the City's natural gas distribution system. City Manager Garza stated that the contract had not been executed. Dr. McNichols then requested an update on the matter from staff. City Manager Garza explained that an item concerning the election process and related items was scheduled for Council consideration at the May 11, 1993 Council Meeting. He further stated that relevant information would be provided to the Council in the upcoming Friday packet. Responding to Council Member McNichols inquiry about meetings between Council Members and Southern Union Gas Company (Southern Union), Mayor Rhodes discussed the meeting of Southern Union and interested parties scheduled for April 29, 1993 in the Council Chamber. She stated that Southern Union would use this opportunity to discuss the benefits of the sale as well as educate the public on important matters regarding their company. Further deliberation ensued, and it was determined that the Council would be provided a copy of the proposed contract between the City and Southern Union. Further, Mayor Rhodes extended an invitation to Southern Union to attend a future Council Meeting. Council Member Best referred to his previous request about the sign which was located in the Council Chamber when he served as a Council Member in the past stating, "Is this request in the public interest?" Next, Council Member Best discussed the meetings held when he previously served on the Council to discuss goals of the City. Dr. Best then suggested that such a meeting could be held on a Saturday. Mayor Rhodes agreed with this suggestion and stated that the meeting would be informative to the new Council Members as well. Dr. Best then requested that staff survey the Council to determine a date which would be convenient. Dr. Best then suggested that the Council Member's name plates displayed in the Council Chamber also include the districts they represent. Responding to Mayor Rhodes, City Secretary Chapa stated that the signs could be ordered. Lastly, Council Member Best discussed the importance of enhancing the lighting at the Corpus Christi International Airport. Mayor Rhodes suggested that this recommendation be submitted to the Airport Advisory Board. Council Member Galindo inquired about the status of the Building Inspections Automation Project. City Manager Garza stated that he would investigate the matter. Further, Council Member Galindo referred to the City funds provided to the Corpus Christi Area Development Corporation, and inquired whether this funding had been considered Minutes Regular Co�_.cil Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 16 when applying the Texas Open Meetings Act to the EDC. City Attorney Bray replied that funding was not a criterion. Next, Mr. Galindo referred to his previous suggestion for Corpus Christi Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to assist local businesses regarding bidding on City items. Mayor Rhodes referred to the ongoing workshops. Further, Mayor Rhodes requested that staff contact Mr. Gary Bushell, President of EDC, for an update on the issue. Responding to Council Member Galindo, City Manager Garza explained that employees under treatment, due to a worker's compensation claim, were required to obtain a release from the Occupational Health Clinic physician before returning to work. Council Member Galindo requested further information on the matter. Council Member Cooper expressed concern that on two different occasions the street lights on the Kennedy Causeway were on at noon. City Manager Garza stated that this could have been due to a malfunction and that he would investigate the matter. Council Member Moss inquired about the completion of the traffic signal system on Shoreline Drive, and stated that he had received a telephone inquiry on this matter. City Manager Garza stated that he would provide information to the Council. Council Member Galindo referred to a hazardous situation in the Hamlin Middle School area involving the location of a street ending at a residential home. Mayor Rhodes called for petitions from the audience. Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, wished Council Member Noyola a speedy recovery from his stay in the hospital and expressed appreciation to the Mayor and Council Members for the quick response to his request to attend the meetings of the Corpus Christi Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Mr. Alonzo stated that he was concerned that the EDC was not willing to develop a positive working relationship with the public or allow the public to attend their meetings. He suggested that the EDC hold two meetings during the year to educate the public concerning important issues. He again requested that the City no longer fund the EDC. Mayor Rhodes agreed with Mr. Alonzo's recommendation for the EDC to hold a meeting to update the public and requested City Manager Garza to inform Mr. Gary Bushell of Mr. Alonzo's suggestion. Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, expressed concern about the Regional Transportation Authority improvements in the Six Points area. Mr. Phil Rosenstein stated that the month of May was designated by Congress as "Old American's Month," and that May 19, 1993 was designated in the Coastal Bend as "Senior Citizen's Day." Mr. Rosenstein referred to the discounts which would be available to senior citizens on May 19. Minutes Regular COL_.cil Meeting April 27, 1993 Page 17 Mr. J. E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, expressed concern that the on -street diagonal parking in the Six Points area was not presented to the Council before implementation. Mr. O'Brien also suggested that the City not continue providing funds to the EDC if the EDC would not allow public access to their meetings. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared the Council Meeting adjourned at 5:33 p.m. on April 27, 1993. * * * * * * * * * * * * *