HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/09/1996I 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 July 9, 1996, which were approved by the
City Council on July 16, 1996.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 16th day of July, 1996
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
2 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Mary Rhodes
Council Members.
Dr. Jack Best
Betty Black
Betty Jean Longoria
John Longoria
Edward Martin
Dr. David McNichols
ABSENT
Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper
Tony Heldenfels
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. Dr. Don Tharp, Central Christian Church, following
which the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States was led by Council Member Martin.
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 25,
1996, and there being no corrections, she proclaimed them approved as presented.
France.
Ms. Gwen Henzi introduced Ms. Natalie Nardi, who was visiting Corpus Christi from Nice,
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 2, a discussion by Ms. Debbie Castleberry,
Marketing and Promotion Manager for the Corpus Christi Zoo, on development of the zoo. She
explained that the first phase of the zoo, the Kids' Zoo, will be open soon and it will be the largest
children's zoo in area in the U.S. Once all four phases are completed in about 10 years, the zoo will
resemble a map of the world and contain approximately 3,000 species of wildlife and plant life.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 2
Ms. Castleberry said that the zoo was not seeking city funding but wanted to be a
contributing and involved member of the local tourism industry. In addition, the zoo will be planned
with water conservation and state -of -the art zoological technology in mind.
Responding to Council Member Martin, Ms. Castleberry said that zoo officials expect to
open a portion of the zoo in a few weeks which will include aviaries, some reptiles, a water fowl
pond, and some hoof stock. Mr. Martin then asked if platting would be required, and Acting City
Manager Hennings explained that staff had received a request for water service from the zoo, and
that would require a contract to include platting the property.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes referred to the Board and Committee appointments on the day's agenda, and
the following appointments were made:
Cable Communications Commission
Mark Patterson (Reappointed)
Sandra Eastwood
Planning Commission
Richard Sema (Reappointed)
Sylvia Perez (Reappointed)
Marsha Williams
Brooke Sween -McGloin
Human Relations Commission
Rabbi Paul Joseph (Reappointed)
Leonides Bazar
Lena Coleman
Nancy Wise Somers
Harold Williams Jr.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 4, law enforcement block grants program.
Police Chief Pete Alvarez explained that the City of Corpus Christi is eligible to apply for
a $515,592 grant under the 1996 Local Law Enforcement Block Grants program through the Bureau
of Justice Assistance; in addition, the city would be required to provide a 10% match through the
Law Enforcement Trust Fund. The Chief said that although the grant can be used for a variety of
projects, staff is recommending that it be used as a down payment for the Mobile Data Terminals
and Automated Vehicle Location (MDT/AVL) system.
Chief Alvarez said that prior to the obligation of the funds, the city must establish an
advisory board to review the application for funding. The board must include representatives of
groups with a recognized interest in criminal justice and crime or substance abuse prevention and
treatment, as well as representatives from the court system, school system, and other areas. Also,
a public hearing is required. He said the application for funds is due on August 9, 1996.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 3
Responding to Council Member McNichols, Chief Alvarez said that if the new computer
system was temporarily inoperational, the present system would still be operational. Dr. McNichols
also requested more information regarding the operation of the new system in inclement weather.
Council Member Martin asked what the city's total obligation would be for the MDT/AVL
system, and Chief Alvarez said it was about $2.2 million, less the grant it would be about $1.7
million. Mr. Martin pointed out that the grant monies could be used for different public safety
projects, and he questioned whether the MDT/AVL system was the Police Department's most urgent
need, considering the many problems associated with gangs and youth violence. Chief Alvarez said
that if all the monies for the MDT/AVL system were not available, some funds could be used to buy
portions of the system; he also agreed that the grant could be used to fight juvenile crime.
Council Member Best pointed out that the proposed system would be purchased and utilized
not only by the city but by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and Nueces County as well.
He said the automated vehicle location aspect of the system would enhance crime control --including
juvenile crime --by giving police dispatchers clear information of the location of police patrols, thus
improving their response time.
In response to Mr. Martin's concerns, Chief Alvarez said staff is reviewing other possible
funding sources that would allow the Police Department to hire additional officers.
Council Member John Longoria said that although he recognizes the importance of the
MDT/AVL system, he agreed with Mr. Martin that more resources needed to be channeled to fight
youth violence and "quality of life" crimes. Chief Alvarez said it was important to secure the grant
first, and then the city would have 24 months to allocate the funds.
Replying to another question from Mr. Longoria, Chief Alvarez said the advisory board's
responsibilities are to make non-binding recommendations as to where the grant monies will be
expended. Mr. Hennings referred to a three-year proposal plan for the Police Department sent to the
Council by the Police Chief, which included a major section on violent crimes and gangs. Another
item in the plan is the mobile data system, which the Chief is recommending be partially funded by
the grant. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria said she supported the mobile data project.
Mayor Rhodes asked if the city was committed to that project specifically, and Chief Alvarez
replied that staff is applying for the grant monies. Mr. Martin said the Council should authorize staff
to apply for the grant, but the decision on how to spend it should not be determined until the Council
had the opportunity to study the city budget, since a funding source would need to be identified for
the remaining $1.7 million. Responding to a question from Mr. Martin, Mr. Hennings said the
Federal Law Enforcement Trust Fund contained $152,143.16, and the State Law Enforcement Trust
Fund had $67,196.27.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 4
Mr. Martin asked about the RTA's portion of the mobile data system, and Chief Alvarez said
the RTA had its portion --about $1.9 million --already available, while the county has not yet
identified a funding source for its portion of about $1.3 million. Mr. Martin asked how the city
would fund the remainder of its portion. Mr. John Bacon, Director of Information Systems, said that
the grant was another piece of the funding "jigsaw puzzle"; other pieces include drug funds and other
grants. He added that another option would be a lease/purchase arrangement. Mr. Martin asked that
if the city could not acquire the rest of the funding, would the data system be improved, and Mr.
Bacon said an initial upgrade had already been approved and it will be installed next month. A brief
discussion ensued.
Responding to Council Member Black, Mr. Bacon said that other public safety organizations
have experienced improved response time to incidents by using mobile data systems. In addition,
it improves officers' ability to quickly process information, such as running identification numbers
and warrants. Mrs. Black said she recognized the benefits of the mobile data system, while at the
same time acknowledging the problem of gang violence.
In reply to Mr. Longoria, Chief Alvarez explained that the grant application needed to specify
a proposed project, although the funds could be allocated for different projects. Mr. Longoria
suggested that staff submit a secondary project as an alternative to the mobile data project, since
there is a risk that the rest of the funding for the mobile data project might not be available.
Council Member McNichols asked if the system used the federal government's Global
Positioning System (GPS), and Chief Alvarez said that it did. Dr. McNichols pointed out that GPS
was being revamped Mr. Bacon commented that the people working on the project are aware of the
technological changes that are occurring, and staff will ensure that the system will be up-to-date and
usable.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
4. M96-189
Motion approving the submission of a grant application in the amount of $573,280 to the
U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, for funding eligible under the
Local Law Enforcement Block Grants Program and authorizing the City Manager to execute
the application and designating the Chief of Police as the official representative of the City.
Grant funds would be used to procure mobile data terminals and automated vehicle locations
for Police units.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 5
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 5, supply agreement for pre -coated aggregate.
Mr. Hennings explained that this proposal was an annual supply contract for materials for
the street maintenance program. The low bidder is not the same company that had the supply
agreement last year. He said the item was placed on the regular agenda because it had been
controversial in the past, but this was a straightforward award based on low bid.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
5. M96-190
Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 17,225 tons of pre -coated aggregate
with Vulcan Material Company, San Antonio, Texas in accordance with Bid Invitation No.
BI -0212-96 based on low bid of $361,552.75. The term of the contract will be 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. This material is used by the
Street Department in their seal coat operations. Funds have been budgeted by the Street
Department for FY 95-96 and requested for FY 96-97.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 6, Richter Channel project.
Mr. Carl Crull, Assistant City Manager for Public Works and Utilities, explained that the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), through the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission (TNRCC), has a grant program to develop, demonstrate and collect data on the
effectiveness of various storm water systems. The City of Corpus Christi has been selected for one
of those grants, and the project that staff submitted for funding was the Richter Channel project,
which was part of the 1986 bond program.
Mr. Crull used a diagram to explain the location of the Richter Channel, which is in the
vicinity of Kostoryz Road, south of Padre Island Drive, and it is primarily used to drain the
Crestmont subdivisions out to Oso Creek. He said the city will fund 40% ($253,333) and the EPA
grant will fund 60% ($380,000) of the improvements, for a total project cost of $633,333. The
project would involve flattening out the side slopes of the channel and installing a rock filter at the
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 6
bottom with better vegetative cover. The project will also include two storm water monitoring
stations and the establishment of an education program for the public.
Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Crull said there was only about $470,000 in the
1986 bond program to make improvements to the Richter Channel; staff reevaluated the project and
determined it would cost about $2.1 million to complete the project. Mr. Martin specifically asked
about the cost of the portion of the project that was grant -eligible, and Mr. Crull said that if the city
were to complete that portion without the grant, it would probably cost about $200,000. He said
with the grant, the city will be constructing a different type of project in order to demonstrate the
effectiveness of this type of system; if it is successful, it could be applied in other areas. Mr. Martin
pointed out that the grant project is three times higher than the type of project the city would
normally undertake. Mr. Crull commented that this is a demonstration project and it has different
benefits.
Council Member John Longoria asked if the $470,000 would still be used, and Mr. Crull said
there was some other work outside of the grant area in that channel that needs to be done. Mr. Crull
further described the demonstration area using the location map and the design of the channel. Mr.
Crull added that in the city there are about 100 miles of large drainage channels similar to the Richter
Channel.
Council Member Betty Jean Longoria agreed that there are many other areas of the city that
need drainage improvements.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
6.a. M96-191
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to enter into an agreement with the
Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) to accept a $380,000
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant for the Richter Channel Water Quality &
Capacity Improvements Project. This will supplement $253,333 in City funds resulting in
a total project cost of $633,333 for the Richter Channel Water Quality and Capacity
Improvements Project.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Martin voting "No"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
6.b. ORDINANCE NO. 022624
Ordinance appropriating a $380,000 grant from United States Environmental Protection
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 7
Agency for the Richter Channel Water Quality and Capacity Improvements Project;
amending the 1995-96 Capital Budget by adding $380,000 to the No. 295 Storm Sewer
Capital Improvement Fund.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Martin voting
"No"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes noted that Item 32, the closed session conceming Mr. Richard J. Herschbach,
was being postponed. She then opened the public hearing on Item 7, zoning distinctions between
bars and restaurants.
Council Member Martin pointed out that this was probably one of the most significant
changes to be proposed to the Zoning Ordinance in some time, and it would most likely involve
much discussion. The Mayor suggested that it be postponed in light of the lengthy budget discussion
to take place later in the meeting. City Attorney Bray suggested that if this item will be postponed,
that it be to a time certain.
Mayor Rhodes asked if the postponement would affect any other work, and Mr. Brandol
Harvey, Director of Planning and Development, pointed out that the Council had adopted a
moratorium on opening bars in "B-1" zoning that would remain in effect until August 30, 1996.
The Mayor made a motion to table this item until the August 13, 1996 Council meeting;
seconded by Council Member Best, and passed unanimously. Responding to Council Member
Martin, Mr. Bray said the public hearing would be tabled as well as the first reading of the ordinance,
and if the Council hears public comment at the August 13 meeting, they are in essence reopening
the public hearing.
7. POSTPONED
Pas 1F�istziet, Artielc 10 , "A T" Apartment Touist Distriet at.d Articic 12, "B 1"
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 8
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on Item 8, closure of a portion of Rossiter Street.
She then made a motion to accept the following amendment that changes the wording from "west
to Corpus Christi Bay" to "east to Corpus Christi Bay." The motion was seconded, and it passed
unanimously.
Mr. Crull explained that the Jackson Landing Owners' Association was requesting that the
portion of Rossiter Street between Ocean Drive and Corpus Christi Bay be closed. He said that for
many years the Council has followed a policy of preserving, enhancing, and encouraging public
access to Corpus Christi Bay and the other waters around the Coastal Bend, and the members of the
owners' association were made aware of that policy.
Mr. Crull showed slides illustrating the location of the proposed street closure, and explained
the portion which is publicly owned and that which is privately owned.
Council Member McNichols said he supported the city's policy of preserving public access
to the area's waterways. However, he said, there are times when the preservation of public access
is not in the best interest of the public, and he thought this was one of those times. He explained
why this proposed street closure differed from the proposed closure of Paloma Street in 1980.
Mr. Crull said the owners were asking for the Rossiter Street closure due to criminal activity
occurring in the townhouse parking garage adjacent to Rossiter Street. Dr. McNichols said that that
portion of Rossiter Street should be closed for many reasons, including its close proximity to a
dangerous "S" curve and intersection at Ocean Drive and the poor condition of the roadway there.
He added that the public access area of Rossiter Street to the bay was very narrow and not in the
public's best interest to be using that particular point of access.
Dr. McNichols also noted that the Jackson Landing Owners' Association would be required
to pay $25,300 (which is the fair market value of the street closure portion), and the city would still
maintain access to the utilities and easement.
Council Member Best cited previous requests for public access closures that had been denied
by the Council, and he said Rossiter Street should remain open as well. He said there was already
a precedent for maintaining the public access to the bay.
Responding to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, Mr. Crull said there is not a fishing
pier at the Rossiter Street location, although there is a bulkhead there where people fish. Mrs.
Longoria said that if the Council approved this street closure, it would be setting a precedent in the
opposite direction.
Mayor Rhodes asked if the applicant was present, and Mr. Crull said he was notified about
the meeting; however, no one appeared before the Council regarding this issue. The Mayor said she
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 9
agreed with Dr. Best's comments and the staff's recommendation to deny this request for closure.
Mrs. Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Dr. Best, and passed
unanimously.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
8. FAILED TO PASS
The foregoing ordinance failed to pass, as amended, by the following vote: Black and
McNichols voting "Aye"; Rhodes, Best, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Martin voting "No";
Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
9. Case No. 696-1. General Automatic Transmission; A change of zoning from "B-4" General
Business District to "I-2" Light Industrial District on High Terrace Subdivision, Block 3, Lot
12 located on the southeast corner of Alamo Street and South Port Avenue.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "I-2"
District, and in lieu thereof, approval of a Special Council Permit for a vehicle impound lot subject
to a site plan and six (6) conditions.
The Mayor asked if the applicant concurred with the recommendation, and Mr. Tom Utter,
Assistant City Manager for Development Services, said he thought the applicant had some
disagreements regarding the proposed special permit.
Mr. Harvey explained that the subject property was located approximately a block south of
Baldwin on Alamo Street. The Zoning Ordinance states that an impound lot is a facility which has
vehicles stored as outside storage in no organized manner, and is considered in the same way as
other outside storage and, therefore, requires screening. He said the subject property could also be
compared to a standard parking lot, which has organized parking, meets design standards, and would
be located in a general business district.
Mr. Harvey went on to say that the applicant has indicated that he wants the property fenced
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 10
in but he does not want it screened. He added that the property is too small for a standard parking
lot. In addition, staff has been working with the applicant to help bring his property into compliance
and he has received 11 extensions, and he is now applying for the change in zoning.
Mr. Harvey showed a video of the subject property. He said the Planning Commission and
staff are recommending that the subject property not be treated as outside storage (which would
demand a 20 -foot setback) but allow it to be treated somewhat like a parking lot (not meeting the
general parking standards in terms of layout but require the 5 -foot landscape setback from the rights-
of-way and a standard screening fence).
Mr. L.A. Barton spoke on behalf of Mr. Cruz Perales, owner of General Automatic
Transmission, and distributed information regarding Mr. Perales' position. He said Mr. Perales was
requesting a less restrictive site plan than the one proposed by the staff and Planning Commission.
He said Mr. Perales was primarily concerned with the requirement that the chainlink fence include
slats, which would provide no visibility into the impound lot and would attract vandals and thieves.
He said Mr. Perales did not object to the requirement of screening the northwest corner adjacent to
the residential property.
Mr. Barton added that it would be difficult for Mr. Perales to maintain landscaping on the
outside of the screening fence (as required); instead, Mr. Perales was requesting that he be allowed
to place the landscaping inside of the fence. Mr. Barton referred to examples of other businesses
which he said illustrated Mr. Perales' proposal.
Mr. Perales asked that the Council consider his proposal.
No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Best made a motion
to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Black, and passed unanimously.
Mayor Rhodes asked why Mr. Perales had been given 11 extensions, and Mr. Harvey replied
that it was to try to bring the property into compliance. He said the current use of the property as
an impound lot was incompatible with the zoning, which was why the "I-2" zoning was being
requested.
Council Member McNichols asked if there were similar uses near the subject property. Mr.
Harvey said there was some industrial zoning and outside storage uses north of the property about
one-half mile away. Dr. McNichols asked why a screening fence was required along the property
that fronts the arterial road. Mr. Harvey said it was due to the use of the property as an impound lot.
He said if the property was designed as a parking lot, it could probably accommodate 10 to 12 cars,
while 18 or more cars are being stored there now.
Responding to another question from Dr. McNichols, Mr. Harvey said he was not aware of
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 11
any property maintenance violations at Mr. Perales' business. Dr. McNichols asked if it would be
appropriate to just require screening on the back of the property adjacent to the residential area. Mr.
Harvey explained that the requirements were primarily for visual aesthetic improvements. He said
if the property was properly located in an industrial district, it would be required to have a 20 -foot
setback from the rights-of-way and be screened.
Council Member Best said this zoning case involved a variety of issues. He said he agreed
with Mr. Perales that the fence would probably be vandalized with graffiti and would require more
expense to set it back. He said he felt Mr. Perales' proposal was reasonable. Mr. Harvey suggested
that if the Council was willing to accept Mr. Perales' proposal, an additional condition could be that
the parking lot would be laid out as a standard parking lot, and only the appropriate number of
vehicles would be allowed to be stored there; Dr. Best agreed.
Council Member John Longoria asked how this usage differed from other businesses. Mr.
Harvey replied that there could be many differences, including the zoning, and the fact that the
parking may be an ancillary use of the business. Mr. Longoria said this situation has occurred
elsewhere on the westside of Corpus Christi, and while he wanted to help Mr. Perales, the Council
still needed to respect the wishes of the neighborhood. Mr. Harvey agreed, saying that in that section
of South Port there has been a continuing problem of parking maintenance and aesthetics, which is
one reason why staff was taking that stand.
Mayor Rhodes said that Mr. Perales had two choices: to comply with the Planning
Commission's and staff's recommendation for a special permit for an impound lot with six
conditions; or to agree to the condition that the lot be laid out as a standard parking lot, which would
reduce by about half the number of cars allowed. Mr. Barton replied that the requirement of setting
the screened fence back would already reduce the number of cars, as well as invite vandalism. He
said this issue arose because Mr. Perales had applied for a zoning change on another part of his
business, and city officials noted that the lot was not in conformance with the zoning.
Council Member Betty Jean Longoria asked how long the cars normally remain on the
impound lot, and Mr. Perales said the time varies from a few days to a month. She said that she
often receives complaints from citizens who say that the westside should be cleaned up. She said
she would be inclined to support the requirement of fencing Mr. Perales' property so that the cars
will not be seen.
Council Member Martin asked if the city had an ordinance prohibiting the use of barbed wire,
and Mr. Harvey said he was not aware of one. Mr. Martin said Corpus Christi should have a
prohibition against it, as many other cities do. He said with this zoning proposal, the Council would
be allowing an "I-2" use in exchange for some basic screening requirements. He said they should
approve the proposal as written or go back and review the underlying zoning issue.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 12
Mayor Rhodes agreed with Mr. Martin's comments, adding that the applicant's current use
of the subject property was not legal and the Planning Commission and staff were allowing him to
continue using the property with certain conditions.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
9. ORDINANCE NO. 022625
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by General Automatic Transmission by
granting a Special Council Permit for a vehicle impound lot subject to a site plan and six (6)
conditions on High Terrace Subdivision, Block 3, Lot 12; and providing for publication.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Black, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Best voting
"No"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened the public hearing on the following zoning case:
10. Case No. 696-3. Warren Jay Harding. A change of zoning from "B-3" Business District to
"I-2" Light Industrial District on Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, Section
52, northeast 2.5 acres out of the southwest 7.5 acres of Lot 16 located on the east side of
Waldron Road approximately 330 feet north of Yorktown Boulevard.
Mayor Rhodes said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "I-2"
District, and in lieu thereof, approval of a Special Permit for boat barns and caretaker's quarters
subject to a site plan and three (3) conditions. She asked if the applicant agreed to the special permit,
and Mr. Utter said he did.
No one opposed the zoning application. Council Member Best made a motion to close the
public hearing, seconded by Council Member McNichols, and passed unanimously.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 022626
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Warren Jay Harding by granting a
Special Council Permit for boat bams and caretaker's quarters subject to a site plan and three
(3) conditions on Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, Section 52, northeast 2.5
acres out of the southwest 7.5 acres of Lot 16; and providing for publication.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 13
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper,
Heldenfels, and Martin absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes called for a 10 -minute break, following which she recessed the regular
Council meeting for the meeting of the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes reconvened the regular Council meeting and called for consideration of
consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 12
through 29. Council Members requested that Items 14 and 15 be withheld for discussion.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed:
12. M96-192
Motion approving the purchase of seven traffic signal controllers from Econolite Control
Products, Tomball, Texas in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0231-96, based on low
bid for a total of $140,000. Funds are budgeted in FY 95-96 Capital Outlay by Street
Services.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
13. M96-193
Motion approving a supply agreement with Van Waters & Rogers, Corpus Christi, Texas in
accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0180-96 for approximately 550 tons of liquid ferric
sulfate for an estimated annual expenditure of $68,200 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 are budgeted in FY 95-96 and requested for FY 96-97 by the Water
Department.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 14
16. M96-196
Motion to award a contract in the amount of $16,100 to Applied Petroleum Technologies for
the Vehicle Maintenance Center: Stages I and II for Balanced Vapor Recovery System -
Vehicle Maintenance.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
17. M96-197
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Alliance
Flexible Benefits Group for Internal Revenue Code Section 125, Administration (Cafeteria
Plan) for four years. This contract is for the following estimated amounts per year:
Year One Year Two Year Three Year Four
$27,050 $26,050 $26,050 $26,050
This is in accordance with Proposal No. BI -0245-96.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
18. M96-198
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $210,546 to GCC Constructors for the Oso
Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP): Clarifier Bridge Improvements - 1996.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
19. M96-199
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $126,000 to R.S. Black Civil Engineers and
Contractors for the Allison WWTP: Clarifier Rehabilitation Project - 1996.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
20. M96-200
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $182,000 to R.S. Black Civil Engineers and
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 15
Contractors/Machinery & Materials, Inc., a Joint Venture, for the Broadway WWTP: High
Rate Trickling Filter Arms Project - 1996.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
21. Iv196-201
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $57,973 to J.M. Davidson Inc. for the O.N.
Stevens Water Treatment Plant: Raw Water Valve Repairs - 1996.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
22. M96-202
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $40,799 to Los Robles Development
Corporation for construction of the Oso Beach Municipal Golf Course Maintenance building.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
23. M96-203
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $50,000 to Duncan -Russo, Inc. for roof
replacement and overhead door replacement on the Specialty Hangar No. 1 at the Corpus
Christi International Airport.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
24. M96-204
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $16,978 to Larson Plumbing for interior and
exterior plumbing improvements and miscellaneous repairs to the Control Building at
Wesley Seale Dam.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 16
25. M96-205
Motion awarding a contract in the amount of $55,295 to Bracco Construction Company for
the Savage Lane Pumping Plant: Expansion Joints Replacement - 1996.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
26. RESOLUTION NO. 022627
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Release and Settlement Agreement
with Kids of the Neighborhood, Inc. pertaining to a subrecipient agreement between the City
of Corpus Christi and Kids of the Neighborhood whereby the City forbears any litigation
relating to such agreement in return for the transfer of all real and personal property of Kids
of the Neighborhood, Inc. to the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria,
J. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
27. ORDINANCE NO. 022628
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a monitoring well permit
agreement with Mrs. Bertha B. Oliver, owner of Liberto Specialty Company, to install three
monitor wells within City right-of-way at the corner of the N. Broadway/Power Street
intersection; establishing a use fee of $750 for the monitoring well.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye";
Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
28. ORDINANCE NO. 022629
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute an assignment of
Hangar and Fixed Base Operator lease from Raytheon Aircraft Services, Inc. to Mercury Air
Group, Inc.; and Amendment No. 1 to the lease between City of Corpus Christi and Mercury
Air Group, Inc. for a one year term beginning July 10, 1996 for an area approximately 1,250
feet by 350 feet adjacent to Pinson Drive, in consideration of annual rental of $.12 per square
foot for improved space, $.05 per square foot for unimproved space, 331/3% of parking or
tie -down income, and $.0625 per gallon of fuel purchased by Mercury.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote:
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 17
Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye";
Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
29. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 48, Sexually Oriented
Businesses by requiring requests for extension of the seven year amortization period to be
submitted prior to January 31, 1997; by deleting the requirement that prior to issuing a
permit, an applicant's spouse must not have committed a felony, sexually related crime
within the last five years or a misdemeanor sexually related crime in the past two years; by
deleting the provisions whereby a permit may be revoked if a permittee's spouse is convicted
of a felony sexually related crime or a misdemeanor sexually related crime during the permit
period of the sexually oriented businesses; providing for penalties; providing for severance;
and providing for publication.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black,
B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels
absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 14, agreement for psychological services.
Responding to Council Member John Longoria, Mr. Hennings said that he did not believe
the city had utilized the services of any other independent psychologists.
Council Member Martin pointed out that Dr. Koch's rate for services had been in effect for
several years, and he wondered whether it should be increased. Mr. Hennings agreed that the rate
was below the standard market rate.
Mayor Rhodes called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
14. M96-194
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement for
psychological services for the Police and Aviation Departments for a period of three years
with M. Dee Koch, Ph.D. at an hourly rate of $25.00.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 18
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes opened discussion on Item 15, lease renewal for Washington Elementary.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, said the proposal stated that (in consideration for the lease)
the city would continue to pay all utilities. He questioned whether any monies would be going into
the Water, Wastewater or Gas departments. Mr. Hennings replied that the utility bills there are
charged at the commercial rate and paid to the Combined Utilities Fund.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
15. M96-195
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a five year lease with a five
year option to renew with the Corpus Christi Independent School District for the City use of
Booker T. Washington School for meal preparation and distribution for senior citizens. As
consideration, the City will pay all utilities and perform routine maintenance.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Rhodes, Best, Black, B. Longoria, J.
Longoria, Martin, and McNichols voting "Aye"; Cooper and Heldenfels absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes announced the closed session on the following items:
Item 30 - 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;
Item 31 - pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding federal legislative
efforts to relieve the City of Corpus Christi of part of its debt to the federal government on
the Choke Canyon Reservoir and secure funding for water supply needs;
Mayor Rhodes noted that Item 32 - pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071
regarding Richard J. Herschbach, an Individual and on behalf of Retired Firefighters and Benefit
Recipients of the Corpus Christi Firemen's Relief and Retirement Fund, v. City of Corpus Christi,
and the Board of Trustees of the Corpus Christi Firemen's Relief and Retirement Fund, Cause No.
89-4954-D, 105th District Court, Nueces County, Texas, was being postponed.
The Council went into closed session.
The Council returned from closed session.
Minutes
Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 19
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Rhodes introduced Item 33, a special discussion of the FY 96-97 Budget and Capital
Improvement Program.
Mr. Hennings introduced the discussion of the budget by describing economic trends in the
areas of net taxable assessed value, net tax levies and collections, cost of a single-family dwelling
in Corpus Christi, and residential and building construction valuation.
He said that despite economic hardships in the last few years, the Council has continued its
priority of increasing police and fire services, as well as solid waste services. He said to make those
priorities possible, there was a decrease in the Street Department, Park and Recreation Department
and other General Fund departments. Mr. Hennings said that the economy appears to be slowly
improving.
Mr. Jorge Garza, Assistant City Manager for Administrative Services, discussed the General
Obligation Debt Service Fund, from which the bonds are paid. The revenues for that fund are
derived from ad valorem taxes, interest earnings, and contributions from other funds that benefit
from the bonds that are sold. He noted that the Council had previously approved a 1.1 cent increase
in property taxes in order to complete the 1986 bond program; that increase will be effective in the
FY96-97 budget.
Mr. Garza pointed out that it has been the city's policy to maintain sufficient funds in the
Debt Service Fund to cover 75% of the next year's debt service. He described two recommended
adjustments in order to meet the 75% coverage amount while at the same time assisting the General
Fund: to appropriate approximately $1.8 million from the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund to the G.O.
Debt Service Fund for the purpose of paying general obligation bonds; to require that any department
or activity that benefits from the sale of bonds fund their portion of the 75% coverage. In the
proposed FY96-97 budget, that would apply to the Aviation and Stormwater/Combined Utilities
funds. Mr. Garza explained that the General Fund would be assisted by those actions by foregoing
the budgeted transfers that would occur this fiscal year as well as next fiscal year.
With regard to the Solid Waste funding plan, the money that would go into the Debt Service
Fund, would be used to calculate the 75% coverage. In FY98-99, when the next bond sale is planned
for Solid Waste, that money would be used for debt service payments. He added that in the proposed
budget, the Aviation contribution for its 75% coverage is listed in the next fiscal year. The Director
of Aviation has requested that that action be taken this year to clearly show that it comes from the
unreserved fund balance and not from the revenues for next fiscal year.
Council Member Martin referred to a memo detailing current year budget adjustments, and
asked what Council action was required. Mr. Garza said the only current year budget action required
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 20
was Council approval of the appropriation and transfer of $1.8 million from the Sanitary Sewer Bond
Fund to the G.O. Debt Service Fund for debt payment.
Mr. Martin also discussed the issue of proper charges to proper funds relative to the effect
they have on the General Fund. He asked if there was any assurance that the proposed $1.8 million
transfer does not present the same audit concern. Mr. Garza said he understood that the proposed
transfer had been coordinated with the city's auditors, and Ms. Rosie Vela, Director of Finance,
verified that.
Mr. Martin noted that the $1.8 million transfer would have the effect of relieving the required
landfill development reserve of $747,530, and he asked if that amount would be used for General
Fund expenditures. Mr. Garza said that it would; he added that the solid waste plan was not being
short-changed since the transfer also relieves the current year debt service requirements included in
the General Fund budget for the Museum ($147,520) and the Solid Waste activity ($355,768).
Mr. Garza referred to the portion of the preliminary budget for FY96-97 regarding the G.O.
Debt Service Fund - Revenue Detail by Activity and Expenditure Detail by Activity. He said the
reserve for Solid Waste (estimated for 1995-96) is $947,530, which is higher than the
aforementioned $747,530 because $200,000 is currently in a bond fund which will also require
Council approval in order to be transferred.
Mr. Martin asked about the origin of the $1.8 million in the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund. Mr.
Hennings replied that he would review that, but it was his understanding that funding for sanitary
sewer projects had been obtained from the Combined Utilities Fund and the bond fund, and the $1.8
million constituted interest earnings from wastewater bonds that were serviced from taxes.
Mr. Hennings added that since that amount was tied to wastewater, it was not available to
be used for other general obligation bond projects. Subsequently, the city's bond counsel determined
that that money could be used for any purpose. He said staff did not transfer the money into the
utility capital improvement program because it had been earned on the general obligation bonds, not
on the Utilities Fund -supported bonds. Mr. Martin noted that in prior year budgets, one of the
problems in the debt service was the decreasing interest eamings that were available to be transferred
into the Debt Service Fund.
Mr. Martin reiterated his request for more information concerning the origin of the $1.8
million (including an analysis of the interest earned), and a brief discussion ensued. Mr. Hennings
said staff would provide that information.
Council Member McNichols expressed concern that at the end of the next fiscal year, there
would not be other one-time infusions of funds such as the $1.8 million. Mr. Hennings said staff is
anticipating that the city's economic status will continue to improve so that the city can return to a
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 21
balance between revenues and expenditures, which has not occurred for several years. He said if the
economy does not continue to improve, staff will have to make more reductions.
Referring to the $1.8 million, Mr. Hennings said that amount was a contingency fund that
was previously only authorized for wastewater projects, and it was used to supplement the overrun
on the Whitecap Wastewater Treatment Plant project. Now that it can be spent for any authorized
purchase, but it has never been programmed in as part of the funding plan for the utility capital
improvement program. Mr. Hennings added that since the policy decision was made to support
wastewater projects from revenues in the Utilities Fund instead of from ad valorem taxes, the
funding plan has always used revenue bonds and not the interest earnings.
Mr. Martin said that the legal issue becomes one of the use of bond funds, not a charter
question of transfers. He asked if the Sanitary Sewer Fund still had tax -supported bonds, and Mr.
Garza said it did.
Responding to Council Member Best, Mr. Hennings pointed out that the fund in question is
the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund, which was not generated from the Combined Utilities Fund. Mr.
Martin pointed out that previously the city used the interest to increase the scope of projects;
however, the Council adopted a policy whereby interest earnings would be programmed for debt
service, which is the action being proposed by transferring the $1.8 million.
Mr. Martin then asked about the sales tax revenue, and Mr. Hennings stated that according
to the July report, the revenue was flat; however, it has been eight months since there was a decrease
in sales tax revenue. He said the revenue estimate for next fiscal year should be about $500,000
higher than what is included in the proposed budget.
Mr. Hennings added that Mr. George Moff, Chief Tax Appraiser, informed him that he was
forecasting a 2.5% increase in the tax base next year, while the city had budgeted a 1.5% increase.
On the other hand, however, the other major revenue source --the Central Power & Light Company
franchise fee payments --are falling short of the estimates. On balance, the revenues should be higher
than anticipated.
Mr. Martin briefly addressed the fund balance issue and the debt service coverage, and he
requested more information about the bond agencies' statements about the fund balance. He also
suggested that the Council consider adopting a resolution in the future regarding the fund balance.
Mr. Hennings described other General Fund issues, saying that there were some added
services built into the budget: in the Fire Department - 15 additional firefighters, who have already
been hired for the new fire station which will be completed next year; a 3% allowance for firefighter
salary increases; a replacement pumper truck; payments on the brush trucks and ladder truck
purchased this year; and replacement of an ambulance and a rebuilt ambulance in the EMS Fund.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 22
The Police Department budget includes the city's share of funding for the 10 additional
officers hired under the COPS Ahead program; two 2% pay increases that were included in the
collective bargaining agreement; $175,000 toward the automatic vehicle location program discussed
previously; and replacement of 35 police cars. Mr. Hennings said the federal funding for the senior
citizen program has been reduced, so the budget increases the city's funding by $300,000 to be able
to maintain the current level of services.
Mr. Martin asked about the statement regarding "continued funding for law enforcement
efforts in the areas of gang -related and youth crimes," and Mr. Hennings said it was a statement
about the city's ongoing services in those areas. Mr. Martin also commented on a lack of awareness
of the many gains (and related expenses) that have been made in the Fire Department.
Mr. Utter then described the Solid Waste Services plan, which was designed to accomplish
the following: to fund ongoing operations of the landfill; to provide the funds to close the Elliott
Landfill; and to provide the funds to acquire, design, permit and construct the new landfill. He said
in order to fund the plan, the Council approved a rate increase, and another increase is not anticipated
until after the year 2000.
Mr. Utter further discussed the solid waste plan, including ways that the city is saving money
by developing its own composting program and by utilizing different means to cover the landfill,
such as alternative daily cover and tarps. He also discussed costs for the new landfill.
Mr. Martin said he felt the Council should adopt a policy, as part of the adoption of the rest
of the budget, that commits to the plan Mr. Utter presented for Solid Waste Services. He said he did
not want a future City Council to have to raise rates to meet future costs. Mr. Utter agreed, and a
brief discussion ensued.
Mr. Hennings said there were two other adjustments that staff made in the city's insurance
fund, which Mr. Garza explained. He said in order to help balance the General Fund, staff
recommended that the amount set aside for workers' compensation claims be reduced from the
current level of $2.1 million to $1 million for FY96-97. Mr. Garza also noted that the Council
approved the conversion from a self-insured to a fully insured group health plan (Humana), and as
a result, staff is anticipating a savings of about $1.8 million annually, of which the General Fund's
portion will be $1.3 million.
Mr. Martin said that during several discussions about self-insured versus fully insured health
plans, it was determined that savings that were generated should not be spent because they would
be needed as a reserve for eventually reverting to a self-insured plan. He added that Humana is still
paying for the runoff claims from the previous administrator. Mr. Hennings said that there is not as
much concern at this point about how successful the fully insured plan will be as there was before
the conversion took place.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 23
Dr. Best asked if the $1.3 million savings to the General Fund from the group health plan,
along with the $1.8 million transfer from the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund, solved the General Fund's
budget crisis. Mr. Hennings replied that it did not because there were still 53 positions that were not
able to be funded. Mr. Garza added that if none of the recommended adjustments are made, staff
projects that the ending fund balance for the current fiscal year would be $1 5 million, of which
$1,073,000 could be appropriated the following year. Then at the end of FY96-97, staff projects that
there would be a deficit of $3.5 million.
Following a discussion, Mr. Martin referred to the City Manager's Message for the FY96-97
budget, which states that the General Fund revenue total available funds are $111,843,985, while
expenditures total $110,440,218, leaving a closing balance on July 31, 1997 of $1,403,767. Mr.
Garza said the $1.4 million figure incorporates the reserve for commitments ($1,030,879) and the
unreserved amount ($372,888). He said the commitments also include a portion for firefighters'
retirement.
Mr. Martin asked why that was not included in the department's budget, and Mr. Hennings
said the reason was because this year the Fire Chief was able to manage the budget and he wanted
to keep that incentive there and not put it into his budget. Mr. Martin said the Council could strike
that number and challenge the Fire Chief and Police Chief with that same incentive. Mr. Hennings
said that depends on their vacancy situation; he also commended Fire Chief Adame and Police Chief
Alvarez for managing their budgets as they did this year.
Mr. Pat Alba, Director of Risk Management, stated that when the group health plan
conversion was made, the original estimate was $1.4 million in runoff claims, which has been
revised to $2.2 million. He said the amount that was budgeted should cover all of the runoff claims.
Responding to a question from Mr. Martin, Mr. Alba said the hospitals and clinics were paid first
because that constituted the largest amounts owed, followed by the physicians, and other claims.
Upon verification from Mr. Alba, Mr. Martin said the health insurance fund in next year's
budget would contain no reserves, and he asked how the city would start a self-insured plan in two
years if that was necessary. Mr. Alba replied that in a self-insured plan, for the first few months
there would be a small amount of claims due to a delay, and that money should be set aside as the
reserve. Mr. Martin pointed out that the crucial element was setting the premiums correctly.
Mayor Rhodes asked if there would be votes taken at next week's meeting on some of the
items discussed, and Mr. Hennings said they were the transfer of the Sanitary Sewer Bond Fund
interest, transfer of the Aviation Fund, and a transfer from the Landfill Fund. He said there were also
proposals for fee increases on EMS charges for oxygen and a surcharge for non-resident patients,
which may come the following week. He said the only other fee increase proposal in the budget
would be the annual adjustment of recreation fees. Mr. Hennings said there were still 53 unfunded
positions as well as other essential unmet needs, which he briefly listed.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 24
Mr. Hennings said in the Debt Service Fund and the General Fund, there is no provision for
any future bond sale of general obligation bonds, so the city is entering another fiscal year without
any prospect for planning for further street improvements and other improvements. In addition,
attention needs to be paid to the prospect of the reinvestment reserves being depleted. He said
hopefully there will be continued upward trends in the economy to assist the budget.
Mr. Hennings said other budget topics that needed to be discussed were the capital
improvement program and the Combined Utilities Fund, which could be addressed next week along
with the public hearing on the budget. He added that Mr. Norm Roberts would be meeting next
week with the Council to discuss candidates for the City Manager position.
Mr. Martin said the general obligation bonds needed to be discussed after the budget is
completed. He said those bonds cannot be planned unless there is a referendum on the issue, and
that is not necessarily a budget issue. Mr. Martin then asked if the Reinvestment Zone needed to be
supplemented this year, and Mr. Hennings said it was covered in the FY96-97 budget, but that will
be the last year it is. Mr. Martin requested more information.
Mr. Martin also commented that salary increases for city employees (other than fire and
police) also needed to be addressed. He added that some of the 53 unfunded positions had been
funded through other sources, and Mr. Hennings said that was true in a few cases. Mr. Martin also
cautioned about overtime increasing. Mr. Martin emphasized that it was essential that the city begin
replacing capital equipment in a timely manner.
Mr. Hennings said staff would bring back next week some recommendations on specific
issues that the Council members addressed.
*************
Mayor Rhodes called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Hennings announced that the
recycling collection schedules would be changed effective August 12, 1996, and there will be
publicity concerning that. He said other items scheduled for next week's Council meeting included
a briefing on the firefighters collective bargaining process, as well as the new landfill.
In her report, the Mayor informed the Council that they had been invited to an event on July
21 by the Roman Catholic faith community of Naval Air Station Corpus Christi.
Mayor Rhodes called for Council concerns and reports.
Mr. Martin pointed out that the Mortgage Credit Certificate program was underway. He also
commended Mr. Hennings in his role as Acting City Manager.
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Regular Council Meeting
July 9, 1996
Page 25
Mr. Longoria said he had asked for an update on the demolition and rehabilitation program,
and was adding a request for a list of unspent Community Development Block Grants. He also
asked what the city's role was in the Community Progress Partnership (CPP).
Mr. Hennings said the CPP requested a presentation on youth projects, which Mr. Malcolm
Matthews, Director of Park and Recreation, provided. Mr. Hennings added that the city has been
asked to support the CPP while at the same time not dominate the process. He said the CPP
organizers were gathering information at this point, and the city intends to provide much input. The
next step is to make recommendations, and Mr. Hennings said he did not know what the city's role
will be in that. Mr. Longoria asked for a list of city -sponsored projects that will be presented to the
CPP.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
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 7:45 p.m. on July 9, 1996.
* * * * * * * * * * * *