HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 06/25/1996I 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 June 25, 1996, which were approved by
the City Council on July 9, 1996.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 9th day of July, 1996
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL
MailaEa
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
1:30 p.m.
Mayor Mary Rhodes
Council Members:
Dr. Jack Best
Betty Black
Tony Heldenfels
Betty Jean Longoria
Edward Martin
Dr. David McNichols
ABSENT
Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper
John Longoria
City Staff:
Acting City Manager Bill Hennings
City Attorney James R. Bray, Jr.
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Mayor Rhodes called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall.
The invocation was delivered by Rev. E.F. Bennett (retired), following which the Pledge of
Allegiance to the flag of the United States was led by Council Member Best.
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 June 18,
1996, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as presented.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The Mayor explained that there would be a presentation and reception honoring former City
Manager Juan Garza. She noted that following Mr. Garza's reception, the Council would go into
closed session regarding Item 26 on the day's agenda, as Mr. Garza had wished to be present for that
closed session. In addition, the public hearing for Item 14 (the zoning case for T.G. Properties) will
be opened at the appropriate time and then the zoning case will be tabled.
Mayor Rhodes then read a proclamation declaring June 25, 1996 as "Juan Garza Day in
Corpus Christi," and she presented Mr. Garza with a plaque honoring him for his 13 years of service
to the city. Council Members Betty Jean Longoria, Betty Black and Jack Best thanked Mr. Garza
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 2
for his assistance, adding that they will miss him. Mayor Rhodes said Mr. Garza has been an
exemplary City Manager and was particularly well -liked by the staff. Mr. Garza replied that he was
proud of the many accomplishments in the city, adding that the city organization needs to be
continually open to all citizens, and there needs to be an ongoing effort to unify the community. He
thanked the Mayor, Council members and staff for their support.
The Mayor then recessed the regular Council meeting for Mr. Garza's reception.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes reconvened the Council meeting and introduced her Administrative Assistant,
Ms. Yvonne Haag, who discussed the Fourth of July "Big Bang" celebration. She said the events
will include a four -meter run, the annual parade, the South Texas Beach Party sponsored by Special
Olympics, a search -and -rescue demonstration by the Coast Guard followed by the Gator Bait Ski
Team stunt show, the patriotic ceremony at Sherrill Park, a special event aboard the U.S.S.
Lexington featuring the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra, a rock concert, and the fireworks
display. The Mayor noted that the city owed a debt of gratitude to H -E -B, which underwrites the
cost of this and other civic events.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes announced the closed session, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section
551.071 and 551.074, to receive information regarding the City Manager's employment of an acting
director of Solid Waste Services and a project director for the new landfill project.
The Council went into closed session.
The Council returned from closed session.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes referred to the Board and Committee appointments on the day's agenda, and
the following appointments were made:
Corpus Christi Downtown Management District
Joe DeLeon Charles White
Ken Griffin
W.E. Harwood
H.T. Patterson
Richard Schendel
Buz Maxwell
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 3
Coastal Bend Workforce Development Board
Bobby Broadway Ann Wilson
Debra Bruce
Michael Burchardt
Cheyenne Eichelberger
Alex Garcia Jr.
Eugene Gibbs
Ken Griffin
Ron Jennings
Ed Lopez
Govind Nadkarni
Wayne New
Robert Shake
Thomas Krepel
Keith Arnold
Frank Delaney
John Owen
Javier Leal
Rosie Rangel
Arlene Rhodes
Agnes Flores
Anita Hinojosa
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes recessed the regular Council meeting for the meeting of the Workforce
Development Executive Corporation, and the joint meeting of the Corpus Christi Housing Finance
Corporation with the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
Mayor Rhodes reconvened the regular Council meeting and opened discussion on Item 7,
resolutions relating to the Consolidated Annual Action Plan and the Corpus Christi Housing
Partnership.
Responding to a question from the Mayor, Mr. Tom Utter, Assistant City Manager for
Development Services, said that the Community Development Block Grant program had received
almost all of the funding that had been requested; the only project that was slightly reduced was
fencing and lighting for the Housing Authority.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
7.a. RESOLUTION NO 022606
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with the
Nueces County Community Action Agency in the amount of $80,000 from the CDBG
Program for a Weatherization Program.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 4
7.b. RESOLUTION NO. 022607
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Our
House/Ronald McDonald House in the amount of $40,000 from the CDBG Program to
provide temporary housing for families with hospitalized members.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
7.c. RESOLUTION NO. 022608
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Metro
Ministries in the amount of $80,000 from the Emergency Shelter Grant Program for services
for the homeless.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
7.d. RESOLUTION NO. 022609
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Dos
Mundos Day Care in the amount of $16,667 from the Emergency Shelter Grant Program for
services for low income homeless children.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
7.e. RESOLUTION NO. 022610
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Gulf
Coast Council of La Raza in the amount of $37,333 from the Emergency Shelter Grant
Program for services to low income homeless children and young adults.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
7.f. RESOLUTION NO. 022611
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with the
Housing Authority for the City of Corpus Christi in the amount of $60,667 from the CDBG
Program for the construction of fencing and lighting for Housing Authority projects.
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 5
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
7.g. RESOLUTION NO. 022612
Resolution creating the Corpus Christi Housing Partnership and inviting other public and
private sectors to join in promoting affordable housing opportunities for the citizens of the
City of Corpus Christi.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 8, library information system.
Mr. Herbert Canales, Director of Libraries, said this item represented two years of work in
raising money and reaching interlocal agreements. He said the project consists of over $500,000 in
outside funding, with pledges from such corporations as Southwestern Bell, Valero and H -E -B over
the next four years amounting to $126,000.
Council Member Heldenfels said this was one of the most important things that the city can
do, adding that libraries are one of the core services that the city has to provide. He said he was glad
that the schools were being included as well. Mr. Canales noted that all of the public high schools
and one private school will utilize the system; one private school that is not currently involved
probably will be at some point. He said that by replacing the existing system, the libraries will be
saving about $120,000 over the next five years.
Mr. Canales also recognized Ms. Elia Gutierrez, Chairperson of the Library Board, and Ms.
Patty Mueller, President of the Corpus Christi Public Library Foundation Inc. Council Member
Betty Jean Longoria praised the board and the foundation for their efforts.
Mr. Canales pointed out that the $100,000 that was contributed last year by the Corpus
Christi Community Improvement Corporation was used to leverage funds for this project. He said
Corpus Christi's library system was the only one in Texas --and one of only eight in the whole
country --to be awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce in the amount of $180,385.
Council Member Black thanked all the people who were involved in this project, and who
will be involved in the future, since libraries are one of the most important things that the city can
offer this community.
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 6
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
8.a. RESOLUTION NO. 022613
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a gift agreement with the Corpus Christi
Public Library Foundation, Inc. (Foundation) whereby the Foundation agrees to contribute
$376,066 to the City in cash, hardware and software as follows: the Foundation agrees to
give the City $118,374 for the purchase of an automated library system from Ameritech
Library Services, Inc. for shared use between City libraries and high school libraries; the
Foundation agrees to make payment of $56,626 directly to Ameritech Library Services, Inc.
for the purchase of the automated library system per the terms of a U.S. Department of
Commerce grant to the Foundation; and the Foundation agrees to purchase and give the City
telecommunications equipment in the amount of $201,066 to be used to provide the City and
City high school libraries access to the system.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
8.b. ORDINANCE NO. 022614
Ordinance appropriating a $100,000 contributed by the Corpus Christi Community
Improvement Corporation to the No. 102 General Fund - Library to be used to purchase an
automated library system for shared use by City and City high school libraries; amending the
FY 1995-96 budget adopted by Ordinance No. 022279 to increase appropriations by
$100,000 in the No. 102 General Fund - Library.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
8.c. ORDINANCE NO. 022615
Ordinance appropriating a $118,374 contributed by the Corpus Christi Public Library
Foundation, Inc. to the No. 102 General Fund - Library to be used to purchase an automated
library system for shared use by the City libraries and high school libraries; amending the
FY 1995-96 budget adopted by Ordinance No. 022279 to increase appropriations by
$118,374 in the No. 102 General Fund - Library.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 7
and J. Longoria absent.
8.d. M96-178
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute a purchase agreement with Ameritech
Library Services, Inc., for a computer equipment, software licenses, and other products and
services, based on sole source, in the amount of $275,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
8.e. M96-179
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute a five-year maintenance agreement,
including warranty, with Ameritech, Inc., for computer equipment and software, based on
sole source, in the amount of $242,134.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
8.f. M96-180
Motion approving the purchase of five years of maintenance services, after warranty, with
Ameritech Inc., for telecommunications equipment received as a gift from the Corpus Christi
Public Library Foundation, Inc., based on low bid, in the amount of $97,323.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
8.g. ORDINANCE NO. 022616
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute interlocal agreements with Corpus
Christi ISD, Calallen ISD, Flour Bluff ISD, Tuloso-Midway ISD, and West Oso ISD; and
an agreement with Corpus Christi Academy to provide each high school library with access
to an automated library system.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
*************
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 8
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 9, amendments to water conservation ordinance.
Mr. Carl Crull, Assistant City Manager of Public Works and Utilities, said one of staff's
primary concerns is ensuring that the effluent is used properly. For those reasons, it is recommended
that homeowners be required to obtain a permit from the Wastewater Offices, 5352 Ayers, Building
8. The permit entails the homeowner viewing an educational video and receiving information on
the proper use and handling of effluent. They would also have to show proof of liability insurance
in the amount of $300,000 or they could sign an affidavit that would hold the city harmless in the
event of an accident. He said the permit is free, and the homeowner would then show the permit to
staff at the filling facility at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Mr. Crull added that staff will be inspecting containers to ensure that they are water tight and
would not spill effluent on the streets as it is being hauled. If the filling attendant sees there would
be a hazard, the homeowner would be asked to correct that before he is allowed to receive the
effluent.
Mayor Rhodes asked Mr. Crull to explain exactly what is effluent. Mr. Crull said effluent
is highly treated wastewater to the point where the city is able to discharge it into the bays and
estuaries and it meets and exceeds all of the standards of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC). He noted that while the effluent does have residual chlorine in it, citizens
are advised not to store it for long periods of time because the chlorine burns off and there is a
chance that bacteria would continue to grow. He said there will be one filling facility at the Oso
Plant and, if there is sufficient demand, filling facilities will be established at the Allison,
Greenwood and Laguna Madre treatment plants. The Mayor asked if the homeowner would be
charged to collect the effluent, and Mr. Crull said he would not be, but he would be asked to sign
a manifest that he has received the effluent.
Council Member McNichols expressed concem about this proposal, saying that commercial
haulers can be held to a different level of accountability than can homeowners. He added that there
were potential hazards if homeowners did not use effluent properly. Mr. Crull replied that the city
established this program during the 1984 drought, and staff was not aware of any health-related
problems as a result. He said the video and materials emphasize the proper handling of effluent.
Council Member Heldenfels also expressed concerns about the use of effluent by
homeowners. He questioned the size of the containers, and Mr. Crull said the ordinance as currently
written requires a 500 -gallon container, but staff is recommending that it be amended to allow the
use of any size container by a homeowner; however, the commercial users would still be limited to
a minimum container size of 500 gallons. Mr. Crull reiterated that the filling attendant will ensure
that the container is watertight and will be properly affixed to the vehicle.
Acting City Manager Hennings said that staff had not initially proposed that effluent be used
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 9
by homeowners for several reasons, including concern about proper use and long lines forming at
the filling facility. However, he said, staff was satisfied that the program can be successful, although
there is some risk associated with it.
Mr. Heldenfels questioned whether the ordinance should be amended to require that a certain
size and kind of container be used by homeowners. City Attorney Bray said if the Council wished
to amend the ordinance, staff would need to make the necessary changes and bring it back for their
approval. Mr. Hennings pointed out that if the purpose was to make effluent available to the typical
homeowner, most would not have specific types of containers to use. Mr. Heldenfels said that he
was very wary of using effluent and continued to express concern about its proper handling.
Responding to Council Member Black, Mr. Crull said staff is recommending that the effluent
be put on the lawn not later than four hours after it is received from the wastewater treatment plant.
Mr. Crull added that things have changed since the effluent was used in 1984, notably society's
attitude toward liability as well as changing regulations. Mr. Hennings explained that the proposed
ordinance would require that the container have a lid or cap, be watertight, and be properly secured
to the vehicle.
Council Member Best noted that he had utilized effluent as irrigation during the 1984
drought, adding that he did not think citizens would start using effluent until the city goes into
Condition III of the drought contingency plan when water will be rationed. He said he did not want
the ordinance to be so restrictive that it would not be practical for anyone to use the effluent.
Council Member Betty Jean Longoria said that after listening to the discussion, she could
understand why staff had not initially recommended this proposal --the only reason they did was
because the Council had requested it. She said citizens needed to be aware of the health hazards
associated with improper use of effluent. She added that this program should be carefully monitored
and the Council should be kept informed if any changes need to be made.
Dr. McNichols asked staff to consider problems associated with lines forming at the Oso
Plant; he added that Ennis Joslin is in very bad condition.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
9. ORDINANCE NO. 022619
Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 55, Article
XII, Water Conservation, Sections 55-155 and the Water Conservation and Drought
Contingency Plan regarding measures for effluent distribution and use of effluent by
homeowners; providing for penalties; providing for severance; and providing for publication.
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 10
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper, B.
Longoria, and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes referred to Item 10, a discussion of water supply and drought contingency
plan issues, and action regarding drought provisions of the Agreed Order.
Mr. James Dodson, Regional Water Director, reminded the Council that Condition II
restrictions were implemented beginning May 6, 1996, and staff has been tracking water use on a
daily basis since that time. Mr. Dodson used charts to illustrate that data, and he pointed out that the
goal of water use reduction in Condition II was 15%. He said that rather than compare water use in
1996 with 1995, which was a wet year, it should be compared with water use in 1989, which was
the last severely dry year in which drought management measures did not have to be implemented.
Consequently, it was found that water use in May 1996 was less than in May 1989, and it was
significantly below water use in May 1984, prior to any of the drought contingency measures that
were implemented that year. Mr. Dodson added that water use declined in May 1996 as compared
to the previous month, when water use would be expected to steeply increase through June. He said
that shows that some reductions are being achieved.
Council Member Martin asked if the data was adjusted to take into account new housing
units, and Mr. Dodson said it was not --it was just raw data. He said with the increase in the number
of residential units, there would have been a much higher demand had the water reduction measures
not been implemented. Mr. Dodson also discussed water use by major customer categories, and he
noted that industry use has been steadily declining since about September 1995. Although industries
are not under any mandatory water restrictions, the major industries have voluntarily complied with
the goal of establishing a 15% reduction in water use. Mr. Dodson acknowledged that there are
some people who are still watering more than necessary.
Mayor Rhodes asked about the TNRCC's reaction to the city's efforts. Mr. Dodson replied
that he had scheduled a meeting with Mr. Dan Pearson, Executive Director of the TNRCC, on June
26, 1996 to discuss that information. He added that the Texas Water Development Board has funded
a research grant to the LBJ School of Public Affairs to examine the city's performance under the
drought plan. He said June's billing data will be helpful in gathering more information. He urged
citizens to be more prudent in their outdoor water use, saying that under these drought conditions
all that was really needed was to keep people's yards alive.
Council Member Heldenfels asked about the amount of treated effluent that is discharged into
the bays and estuaries. Mr. Dodson replied that about 5,000 acre-feet is distributed throughout the
entire system during each month. Mr. Heldenfels asked why the city only received credit for 500
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 11
acre-feet. Mr. Dodson explained that the city does, in effect, get credit for all of that amount because
the Certificate of Adjudication required that the city provide 151,000 acre-feet per year to the bays
and estuaries. The Agreed Order states that the city on the average provide 91,000 acre-feet per year
to Nueces Bay after credit is given to the portion of effluent that is discharged into Nueces Bay.
Consequently, the 60,000 acre-feet of return flows is credited off the 151,000 acre-feet per year
requirement. A discussion ensued.
Responding to another question from Mr. Heldenfels, Mr. Dodson said the only way the city
can receive credit under the Agreed Order is if there is either a release of water or a spill measured
at the Calallen dam, or an intentional diversion of stormwater to Nueces Bay, or the return flow
credits for wastewater discharges. Mr. Heldenfels asked why those amounts could not be
renegotiated, and Mr. Dodson said all of those issues were addressed when the current Agreed Order
was negotiated. He added that there is a provision in the order whereby the city can receive credit
in a round -about fashion if the salinity level in the bay falls below a certain amount due to a great
influx of stormwater runoff.
In reply to Mr. Martin, Mr. Dodson said that credits are received for both municipal and
industrial wastewater discharges by all of the area's water customers. Mr. Martin then asked if any
freshwater releases were or will be made in June, and Mr. Dodson said they were not. Mr. Martin
commended Mr. Dodson for the information he prepared concerning the issue of whether to enact
drought provisions of the Agreed Order.
Council Member McNichols commented that a tremendous amount of study, investigation,
and negotiation went on for two years regarding several issues, including salinity levels and
stormwater runoff, that resulted in the establishment of the Agreed Order. He said that agreement
maximized the yield from the reservoir system and minimized the amount of freshwater releases that
had to occur in any given situation.
Mr. Dodson then addressed Item 10.a. concerning drought provisions in the Agreed Order.
He explained that when Condition II was implemented in May, it allowed the city to exercise a
provision in the Agreed Order in which the freshwater release targets could be reduced from their
monthly amounts, which in May and June were about 23,000 acre-feet each month, to a minimal
amount of 1,200 acre-feet each month. Once the 500 acre-feet per month credit is factored in, it
amounts to an effective requirement of only 700 acre-feet per month.
He said there is another provision in the Agreed Order which states that if the reservoir
system drops to 30% of capacity or lower, the city may move to a "full -capture" mode of operation,
resulting in no targets of freshwater inflows. However, that provision is conditioned upon the city
implementing the next level of the drought contingency plan --Condition III. It also specifies that
that must occur at the time in the month the 30% level is reached, which is expected to be at the end
of June.
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 12
Mr. Dodson said that staff recommended the city not exercise that provision in the Agreed
Order because the net effect is negligible --it would mean only potentially gaining 700 acre-feet per
month --as compared to the effect that implementation of Condition III would have on the area's
economy. Condition III contains measures that would begin putting people out of work. Mr.
Dodson added that the current Condition III trigger level is 11% of system capacity, and the Water
Conservation Advisory Committee will be making a recommendation in approximately the next
month concerning a new trigger level for Condition III. He also recommended that preparations
begin for eventually having to implement Condition III if drought conditions warrant it.
Responding to Mr. Heldenfels, Mr. Dodson said if the Council wanted to exercise the
provision in the Agreed Order, they would have to, at the day's meeting, raise the Condition III
trigger level to 30% and the remaining provisions of Condition II would have to be implemented.
Mr. Dodson said if the reservoir level dropped to below 30% and the Council did not declare
Condition III in that month, the city loses the right under the Agreed Order to go from 1,200 acre-
feet of inflows to zero.
Mr. Martin said that even if the Council had the time to take different action, he still felt this
was the right recommendation, considering the economic consequences that would result upon
implemention of Condition III.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, requested more information concerning industrial water
usage. He also referred to what he said was a mistaken water release at Lake Corpus Christi. Mr.
O'Brien asked about the prohibition of new service connections under Condition III. Replying to
Mr. O'Brien, Mr. Hennings said water that spilled over the dam at Calallen last Friday resulted from
rainfall occurring above Calallen on the Nueces River. The only water released from Lake Corpus
Christi flowed down to Calallen to be sucked out of the pool into the water treatment plant. He said
there is a time delay of 36 hours as that water travels down the river, so if rainfall does occur
between Calallen and Lake Corpus Christi, sometimes that water will flow over the dam.
Mr. Martin explained that with regard to the new housing initiative and resulting new
connections, if and when the city implements Condition III, any programs that are inconsistent with
the plan would be stopped. Mr. Bray added that new connections would only be prohibited where
water was available from some other source at that address.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
10.a. M96-181
Motion approving a recommendation that provisions in the Texas Natural Resource
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Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 13
Conservation Commission's Agreed Order on freshwater inflows to the Nueces Estuary
allowing for the suspension of inflow requirements not be exercised at this time.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
Dr. McNichols said that the Regional Water Supply Task Force, which he co-chairs with Mr.
Jerry Kane, has met and the members have been given the charge of expediting the construction of
a pipeline from Lake Texana to Corpus Christi, and to review all alternatives that are available to
supplement the area's water supply plans for the future. He said the members are well aware of the
community's interest in desalinization, and they suggested that Mr. Ron Marek, who is an advocate
of desalinization, be appointed to the Regional Water Supply Task Force. He said the possibility
of developing a small-scale desalinization project has been discussed, in order to determine if a
larger -scale project would be feasible in this region.
Mayor Rhodes said Mr. Marek was appointed to the Regional Water Supply Task Force.
Mr. Heldenfels commented that if a water pipeline is to be built, it has to be constructed soon,
because it is estimated that the area's water supply will be diminished sooner than previously
thought.
Council Member Best said it is often mentioned that the Navy uses desalinization on its
ships, which Dr. Best said was untrue; rather, they use condensation. He also noted that Israel is
planning to build a 500 -mile pipeline because it is less expensive than desalinization.
Mr. Martin suggested that all of the Council have background information that was presented
last week to the members of the Regional Water Supply Task Force. He also reiterated Mr.
Heldenfels' comment that since this area is in the drought of record, it is possible that additional
water supplies could be necessary within 24 to 28 months, rather than after the year 2000. Mr.
Martin said even if people do not agree on the solution, they need to agree on the problem that needs
to be solved.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 11, airline use/lease agreement.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa stated that Dr. McNichols would be abstaining from voting on Item 11. Mr. Chapa then
polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 14
11. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute approximately a five year lease
ending December 31, 2001 with Southwest Airlines Company for ticket counter space, office
space, gate space, apron space, and joint usage of the baggage claim space and other common
areas at Corpus Christi International Airport in consideration of payment of fees that total
$4.06 per enplaned passenger and are adjusted annually based on a fixed formula.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black,
Heldenfels, B. Longoria, and Martin voting "Aye"; McNichols abstaining; Cooper and J.
Longoria absent.
Mr. Hennings introduced Mr. Edward Shelswell-White, Chairman of the Airline Affairs
Committee, who said that Southwest Airlines celebrated its 25th anniversary on June 18, 1996. He
said the airline is grateful for the support it has had from the Corpus Christi citizens and the local
airport.
Responding to a question from Council Member Martin, Mr. Hennings said the job
description and title of the airport Business Development Manager had been changed from the
previous Administrative Assistant position at the airport. He added that other city positions would
be reported to the Council in July during the budget process. Mr. Martin said that action applies to
reclassifications of positions, but not to the creation of entirely new job positions and functions.
Ms. Bonnie Allin, Director of Aviation, said that "Business Development Manager" was a
working title for a position that had been reclassified from an Administrative Assistant III to an
Administrative Assistant V; in addition, the position's duties have been realigned to emphasize the
marketing and properties functions at the airport.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 12, Wood River Subdivision annexation.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
12. ORDINANCE NO. 022617
Annexing Wood River Subdivision Unit 11A (9.687 acres) and Lot 1, Block 47, the park at
Wood River Unit 8, (0.46 acre), more or less out of a 400 acre tract out of the Mariano L. De
Herrera Grant Abstract 606, Nueces County, Texas and providing for severance.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 15
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best,
Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J.
Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
13. Case No. C596 -4A. City Of Corpus Christi: Zone newly annexed area to "R -1B" One -
family Dwelling District on Wood River Subdivision Unit 11A and 0.461 acre out of
Mariano L. De Herrera Grant Abstract 606, located along the north side of Beal Drive at
River Park Drive.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval.
No one opposed the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion to close the public
hearing, seconded by Council Member Heldenfels, and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 022618
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by City of Corpus Christi, by changing
the Zoning Map in reference to Wood River Subdivision Unit 11A and 0.461 acre out of
Mariano L. De Herrera Grant Abstract 606, from unzoned to an "R -1B" One -family
Dwelling District; providing for publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * *
*
**
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
14. Case No. 596-1. T.G. Properties. A change of zoning from "A-1" Apartment House District
to "I-2" Light Industrial District on John Industrial Subdivision, Lot 3A, located on the west
side of Old Brownsville Road, approximately 375 feet north of Bear Lane.
The Mayor noted that this zoning case was being tabled.
-r•
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 16
TABLED
Zoning Map i,..efa.,n.,e to --John Indu0t.iaLyubelivisia.., Lot 3A, front "A 1" Apartment
I Iuus., District to "B 3" Busi..css Dist. ct; pruvid:..g-f'i,. YaLI:. sties
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
15. Case No. 596-5. Plumber's Warehouse: A change of zoning from"B-1" Neighborhood
Business District to"B-4" General Business District on Kostoryz & Gollihar Center Annex
A, located on the north side of Gollihar Road, approximately 100 feet east of Kostoryz Road.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval.
No one opposed the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion to close the public
hearing, seconded by Council Member Heldenfels, and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 022620
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Plumber's Warehouse, by changing
the Zoning Map in reference to Kostoryz & Gollihar Center Annex A, from "B-1"
Neighborhood Business District to "B-4" General Business District; providing for
publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
*************
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
16. Case No. 596-6. Arlington Heights Church of Christ: A change of zoning from an "F -R"
Farm -Rural District and a "B-4" General Business District to an "A-1" Apartment House
District on Frank Addition, Block A, Lot 2, located along the south side of Interstate
Highway 37 and along the east side of Rand Morgan Road.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 17
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "A-1"
District, and in lieu thereof, approval of a Special Permit for a retirement complex subject to a site
plan and four (4) conditions.
No one opposed the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion to close the public
hearing, seconded by Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, and passed unanimously.
Council Member Martin asked if it was staff's recommendation that this land remain "F -R,"
with the exception of the portion that is zoned "B-4." Mr. Utter said it would have a special permit
on it, which is an overlay district. Mr. Martin asked if "A-1" was the minimum required zoning for
the proposed use, and Mr. Brandol Harvey, Director of Planning and Development, said it was; he
noted that it was an usual situation.
Mayor Rhodes asked if the applicant had agreed to the special permit and the special
conditions, and Mr. Utter said they did.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
16. ORDINANCE NO 022621
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Arlington Heights Church Of Christ,
by granting a Special Council Permit for a retirement complex subject to a site plan and four
(4) conditions on Frank Addition, Block A, Lot 2; providing for publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
17. Case No. 596-7. Savannah Robinson: A change of zoning from "A-1" Apartment House
District and "A-2" Apartment House District to "AB" Professional Office District on
Brayton Addition, Block 2, Lots 3 and 6, located between South Tancahua and South
Carancahua Streets, approximately 40 feet north of Agnes Street.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval.
No one opposed the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion to close the public
hearing, seconded by Council Member Heldenfels, and passed unanimously.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 18
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
17. ORDINANCE NO. 022622
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Savannah Robinson, by changing the
Zoning Map in reference to Brayton Addition, Block 2, Lots 3 & 6, from "A-1" Apartment
House District and "A-2" Apartment House District to "AB" Professional Office District;
providing for publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
18. Case No. C596-8. City of Corpus Christi. A change of zoning from "A-1" Apartment House
District and "A-2" Apartment House District to "AB" Professional Office District on
Brayton Addition, Block 2, Lots 2 and 7, located along the north side of Agnes Street,
between South Tancahua and South Carancahua Streets.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval.
No one opposed the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion to close the public
hearing, seconded by Council Member Heldenfels, and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 022623
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by City of Corpus Christi, by changing
the Zoning Map in reference to Brayton Addition, Block 2, Lots 2 & 7, from "A-1"
Apartment House District and "A-2" Apartment House District to "AB" Professional Office
District; providing for publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper
and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 19
Mayor Rhodes called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and
ordinances from previous meetings on Items 19 through 25, and Council Members requested that
Item 25 be withheld for discussion.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed:
19. M96-182
Motion approving a supply agreement with Lucier Chemical Industries LTD., dba LCI,
LTD., Jacksonville Beach, Florida for approximately 350 tons of hydrofluosilicic acid in
accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0160-96 for an estimated annual expenditure of
$53,641 based on low bid. The term of the agreement shall be for twelve months with an
option to extend for up to two additional twelve month periods subject to the approval of the
supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by the Water
Department in FY 95-96.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
20. M96-183
Motion approving supply agreements with the following companies for the following
amounts in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0194-96 for approximately 30,300 feet
of sch. 40 PVC pipe ranging in size from %x" - 8"; 13,764 fittings; 6,426 plugs; 170 gallons
of primer, solvent, and cement; and various components based on low bid and low bid
meeting specifications for an estimated annual total of $61,193.24. Funds are budgeted in
FY 95-96 and requested for FY 96-97 by the using departments.
International Supply
Corpus Christi. Texas
Pipe, Components - Low bid
Low bid meeting specifications
Group 1, Item 5.1
$24,776.40
Fergusson Enterprises
Corpus Christi. Texas
Plugs, Components - Low bid
Low bid meeting specifications
Group 3, Items 5.3, 5.4
$19,255.68
Noland Co.
Corpus Christi. Texas
Fittings, Cement, Solvent, Primer Components
Low bid, Low bid meeting specifications
Groups 2 and 4, Item 5.2
$17,161.16
GRAND TOTAL:
$61,193.24
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 20
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
21. Iv196-184
Motion approving the purchase of one 70 -HP Utility Tractor, in accordance with Bid
Invitation No. BI -0172-96, from Coastal Plains Equipment Company, Corpus Christi, based
on an only bid in the amount of $22,997. The tractor is budgeted in the 1995-96 Capital
Outlay by Aviation Department as replacement equipment.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
22. M96-185
Motion approving the purchase of pump repair parts in accordance with Bid Invitation No.
BI -0242-96 from the following firms based on low bid and only bid. The parts are budgeted
by Water Department in the 1995-96 Capital Outlay.
BW/IP International, Inc.
Houston. Tx
Item 1
$43,310.00
A&H Enterprises, Inc.
Brownsville. Tx
Items 2 & 3
$111,576.00
Grand Total of Awards: $154,886.00
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
23. M96-186
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $34,354 to Haeber Roofing Company for roof
replacement at the Greenwood Branch Public Library.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
24. M96-187
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $40,960 to Fairbairn Electric at the O.N.
Stevens River Station to: (1) add remote controlled valves on raw water pumps; and (2)
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 21
replace 4160 volt electrical service line.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 25, airport terminal reconstruction.
Council Member Heldenfels questioned the diagram illustrating the reconstruction, and Mr.
R.H. Shackelford, Director of Engineering Services, and Ms. Allin said there was an error in the
diagram, and there was not an existing lawn area as was indicated.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
25. M96-188
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Change Order No. 2 in the
amount of $27,915 to the contract with B.E. Beecroft Company for Reconstruction of the
Hayden Head Terminal Building, Phase 1A, for a new contract amount of $2,565,044.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, Heldenfels, B.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and J. Longoria absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Hennings pointed out that the
Animal Control Advisory Committee would be having a meeting on June 27, 1996 at 6 p.m. at the
Health Center concerning the coyote problem on Padre Island. He said there would not be a Council
meeting next Tuesday, July 2, and the focus of the July 9 Council meeting would be the budget
workshop.
Mr. Crull explained that there was a water main break on a 30" line on Omaha Street between
Leopard and Baldwin. He noted that that situation occurs when the ground gets very dry, and staff
is trying to respond as quickly as possible to leaks. Mr. Crull also said there had been some
additional rain below Lake Corpus Christi that afternoon, which was contributing to runoff over the
dam at Calallen.
Responding to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, Mr. Crull said the water main break
had resulted in some citizens not having water for a period of time, as well as some citizens who had
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
June 25, 1996
Page 22
water in their houses. He said staff has canvassed that area with fliers advising them to contact the
Risk Management Department with any damage claims.
In her report, Mayor Rhodes said that as part of the Fourth of July festivities this year, the
U.S.S. Lexington was hosting a fundraising event, and Mercantile Bank was offering the Council
members tickets to it.
Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports.
Council Member Betty Jean Longoria requested information on two pieces of property
located on the southwest corner of Port and Agnes, and on the southwest corner of Leopard and
Villa. She noted that auto repair shops in those locations were accumulating junk cars.
Council Member McNichols referred to a letter he had received from Mr. Buck Sosa of the
Firefighters Association. He asked that the Council be informed of staff s response to the allegations
that were made in the letter.
Mayor Rhodes called for petitions from the audience, and there were none.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Rhodes declared the
Council meeting adjourned at 5:25 p.m. on June 25, 1996.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *