Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/08/1997I 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 8, 1997, which were approved by the City Council on July 15, 1997. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 15th day of July, 1997 Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINTJTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 2 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Loyd Neal Mayor Pro Tem Betty Jean Longoria Council Members: Jaime L. Capelo Jr. Melody Cooper Alex L. Garcia Jr. Arnold Gonzales John Longoria Dr. David McNichols Edward Martin City Staff: City Manager Bill Hennings City Attorney James R. Bray Jr. City Secretary Armando Chapa Mayor Neal called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The invocation was delivered by the Rev. David Saenz, Segunda Iglesia Bautista, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States was led by Council Member Garcia. 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 Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of June 24, 1997, and the budget workshop of July 1, 1997. There being no corrections, he proclaimed them approved as presented. * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. * Mr. Jimmie Till, 1265 Southem Minerals Road, said that Leopard Street in the northwest area is very poorly maintained, and he distributed pictures to illustrate that. He also objected to the Gateway Park, saying he did not think residents of Corpus Christi would be able to make adequate use of it. Ms. Mary Beth Nelson, 2721 Erie Dr., asked the Council to consider, as they discuss the FY 97-98 budget, that arts are a part of the city's infrastructure and are necessary to citizens' quality of life. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 2 Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, noted that the Council would be faced with many difficult issues and he encouraged them to vote in the best interest of the community. Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, referred to a staff proposal to make a loan from the unreserved fund balance of the Combined Utilities Fund to the Self -Insurance Fund. He read from a provision in the City Charter regarding interdepartmental transfers of funds, and he questioned how that provision pertained to staff's proposal. City Attorney Bray replied that a loan is not a transfer within the meaning of the Charter. Mr. Leon Perez spoke against the franchise agreement with Southwestern Bell Telephone. Mr. Phil Rosenstein said he would like to see the municipal band concerts in Cole Park continue, adding that they deserve more recognition. Mr. Roy Martinez, 1440 Dahlia, said that moving the petitions to the beginning of the Council meetings denies citizens who work during the day the opportunity to address the Council. Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said the Council should reconsider the Gateway Project, and he said the Council represents the citizens -taxpayers of the city. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal referred to two presentations listed on the agenda. The first pertained to "Operation Scout Brush." Mr. Ridge Hammon described the event, which evolved through the North Bay Area Community Advisory Council's (NBACAC) Community Pride Group. He said on May 24, 1997, about 180 children and adults gathered to clean up the neighborhood around Driscoll Middle School. Mr. Hammon introduced representatives of the organizations which took part, including NBACAC; Girls, Boys and Explorer Scouts; Junior League; Driscoll Middle School; Mayor's Task Force on Youth Violence; Communities in Schools; Whataburger Inc.; Solid Waste Services; Police Department; Weed and Seed Committee; NAACP; CITGO; and Koch Refining. He said another "Operation Scout Brush" would be held September 6, 1997, to clean up the area around Crossley Elementary School. The next presentation, an update on the Gateway Project, was made by Mr. Tom Utter, Assistant City Manager for Development Services. He explained that the Gateway Project is a culmination of many years of work and is designed to provide a major entranceway into the city. Mr. Utter described the project's history and reviewed contributions that different entities have made. He noted that the primary factor in financing the project was the sale of property to the General Services Administration (GSA) for the construction of a new federal courthouse. Mr. Utter said the first contract under Phase I of the Gateway Project involved the relocation Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 3 of two lanes of IH -37 from Mesquite Street to Shoreline Boulevard, which is almost completed. In addition, the city will tear down the old Park and Recreation building near Shoreline. Mr. Utter said the closing of the property sale to GSA took place that morning and the money from the sale has been transferred to the city. Mr. Utter then introduced Mr. Bill McCord, of Wilson, Kullman & McCord Architects, who has been working with the federal judges and GSA representatives on the design of the new federal courthouse. Mr. McCord showed the Council an architectural rendition of the facility and described several aspects of it. He noted that the estimated construction cost is between $20 million to $25 million and construction is expected to commence during the first quarter of 1998 and be completed in the year 2000. Responding to Council members' questions, Mr. McCord described the collaborative nature of the design process, saying that a more traditional design was sought for the federal courthouse to be located in Corpus Christi. Some Council members commented that they thought the building would have a more modern design, while others stated that they liked the design. A discussion ensued. Referring to a drawing of the Gateway Project, Mr. Utter pointed out that the original design of the project did not include a federal courthouse being located there. He said staff was asking the Council to reaffirm its prior approval of the Gateway Project concept. He noted that in the city's contract with GSA, that agency has agreed to coordinate the landscaping of the portion adjacent to the federal courthouse and I11-37 with the rest of the landscaping. Mr. Utter pointed out that the Council could take another look at the Shoreline Boulevard portion of the Gateway Project if it wished. He stated that many cities with prominent bayfronts include "green" areas along those bayfronts, and this design would include a green area while not diminishing the traffic capacity on Shoreline. Mr. Utter also reiterated the funding received for the project. In response to Mayor Neal, Mr. Utter said staff was asking the Council to authorize the engineers and landscape designers to return with plans for a specific area of the project, accompanied by a definitive cost. The Mayor also asked about funding for certain elements of the project. Council Member Martin asked if any of the other funding sources are earmarked similar to the funds from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Mr. Utter said some funds were earmarked, which he briefly described. Mr. Martin and Mayor Neal said they thought the Council should review a budget for both phases of the Gateway Project. Council Member John Longoria asked if there were other phases of development being planned than what was being presented to the Council, and Mr. Utter said there were no other plans at this time. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 4 Responding to Council Member Capelo, Mr. Utter said the park areas to be located west of the courthouse are designed to serve principally as a landscaped entranceway into the city as well as a buffer for additional parking. Mr. Capelo requested a history of the funding sources for the Gateway Project. In reply to Council Members Gonzales and Betty Jean Longoria , Mr. Utter described traffic patterns and plans for Chaparral, Mesquite and Shoreline streets. Council Member Garcia asked how a feasibility study of the old County Courthouse would affect the design for the Gateway Project. Mr. Utter pointed out that that study may take six months to a year, and the Gateway Project is designed to accommodate different options regarding the old courthouse. Responding to another question from Mr. Garcia, Mr. Utter said there have been previous discussions about altering the traffic pattern on Shoreline. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience. Mr. Gordon Landreth, Chairman of the Downtown Management District (DMD), said the DMD has worked for almost four years on this concept, and he distributed a list of entities endorsing the project. He pointed out that the plan does not remove a single lane of traffic and makes the green areas more usable. Mr. J.E. O'Brien questioned how the proposed plans could affect the seawall. Mr. John Hartley, 3925 Sandy Hollow, questioned the percentage of the city's population that will be utilizing the Gateway Park. Mr. Dennis Haas, 318 Beverly, showed a conceptual drawing dated March 1940 of the original concept of the bayfront before it was constructed, which he described. Mayor Neal asked city staff to provide additional information for discussion at an upcoming meeting, and City Manager Hennings said he would postpone Item 3 until later in the month. 3. POSTPONED otion by City Councn rcattirmmg approval of tnc vatcway rro�cct conccp * * * * * * * * * * * * * y Mayor Neal referred to the Board and Committee appointments on the day's agenda, and the following appointments were made: Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 5 Animal Control Advisory Committee Steve Lee Cable Communications Commission Evelyn Lott Cefe Valenzuela Electrical Advisory Board Willie Flemmings Food Services Advisory Committee Jeff Dolson (Reappointed) Carlos Moreno Monte Thorman Human Relations Commission Anna Mercado (Reappointed) Nancy Somers (Reappointed) Sam Henderson (Reappointed) Olga Tamara Ana Tamez Alexis Fasci Landmark Commission Charles Speed (Reappointed) Carolyn Tinker (Reappointed) Jesus Leija Betsy Chapman Grandis Lenken Mechanical/Plumbing Advisory Board Herman Johnson Municipal Arts Commission Fernando Benavidez Planning Commission Danny Noyola (Reappointed) Ron Guzman David Underbrink * * * * * * * * * * * * * Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 6 Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 4, the proposed FY 1997-98 budget. Fire Chief J.J. Adame pointed out that the proposed Fire Department budget is very similar to the current one, with the exception of the 4% salary increase as a result of the union negotiations. He said the proposed budget includes the replacement of one pumper truck, and the addition in the EMS budget of four of the larger rescue vehicles. Chief Adame said staff has reassigned personnel to accommodate the mandatory requirements of safety and training. He noted that the current one- year collective bargaining agreement will expire on July 31, 1997; as a result, city staff and union officials will be entering into another round of contract negotiations in the coming year. Responding to Mayor Neal, Chief Adame explained the process of budgeting for personnel. Council Member Martin referred to a written explanation of budget changes in the Fire Department budget, and he questioned the line item regarding the explanation of the 4% salary increase for uniform personnel of $128,687. Mr. Hennings pointed out that that figure is the difference between the 3% increase that was budgeted and the 4% increase that was approved. Mr. Martin also questioned the line items regarding retirement pay and salary savings from retirees, which Mr. Hennings explained. Mr. Martin emphasized the importance of developing a long-term fire prevention plan. Council Member McNichols also referred to the 4% salary increase being budgeted for next year, and Mr. Hennings agreed that staff has only budgeted the amount required by the current contract. A brief discussion ensued. Mr. Hennings then referred to an updated overview of the General Fund, and he discussed revenues and expenditures that staff will propose be adjusted in order to comply with the financial policies approved by the Council. He pointed out that even if a crime control and prevention district is created and the Southwestern Bell telephone franchise is increased, a sizeable budget problem remains. Mr. Martin questioned various aspects of the General Fund overview, and he asked staff to consider options for the Self -Insurance Fund repayment. Council Member Capelo pointed out that a crime control district would have to be approved by the voters, and he expressed concern about relying on the idea that it will be approved when preparing the budget. Mr. Hennings said staff will only budget the costs in the General Fund that are needed until the crime control district begins to function. However, he added, if the crime control district fails, then staff will have to make adjustments. Responding to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, Mr. Hennings further described options on structuring the budget with and without the existence of a crime control district. He also explained the budget requirement for beach clean-up. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 7 Dr. McNichols said he did not think the budget should anticipate revenues from the crime control district until it is actually approved by the voters and begins operating. Council Member Gonzales asked Mr. Hennings if he had considered proposing a one-half cent sales tax for the crime control district rather than a one-eighth cent tax, as has been discussed. Mr. Hennings replied that the amount of the tax would be determined by the Council. He added that he was proposing to fund graffiti clean-up, and to fund arts projects from the Tourist and Convention Fund. He said he would provide the Council with a revised estimate of the hotel/motel tax that will provide additional revenues. Mayor Neal asked if the Council needed to formally endorse the figure of $1,613,134 as the beginning balance for FY 1997-98, and Mr. Hennings said that figure had been set and no action was needed. The Mayor requested that the July 15th Council meeting begin at 10 a.m., and there was consensus of the Council to do so. City Secretary Chapa pointed out that the public hearing for the budget had been published to begin at 2 p.m., but the rest of the meeting could begin at 10 a.m. Mr. Hennings then referred to the possible creation of a crime control and prevention district and the appointment of temporary directors. He said if the district were to be considered by the voters in a November election, the Council would have to begin next week the actions leading up to the election. City Attorney Bray explained the organization of the temporary board and their role in the creation of a crime control district. He noted that their responsibilities under state law include developing a two-year crime control plan and a two-year budget plan. After a public hearing on the plans is held, the temporary directors approve the two plans, order the election on the creation of the district and adoption of the tax rate, and canvass the election results. If the proposition carries, the temporary board's duties are completed and the board is dissolved, and the City Council appoints the permanent directors. Mayor Neal asked that each Council member suggest two names as candidates for the temporary board, and from that list the Council can vote next week on the seven people who will serve on that board. Mr. Bray then responded to Council members' questions about different aspects of the temporary board and the crime control district. In reply to other questions, Mr. Hennings noted that previously Police Chief Alvarez had submitted a proposal to add 50 officers to the force over five years, and a one-eighth cent sales tax increase would fund that manpower over the long-term, which was one approach to that funding need. He added that if a one-eighth cent tax increase was proposed for the crime control district, then the maximum amount that could be proposed for the economic development initiative would be three-eighths of a cent, for a total of a half -cent sales tax increase. He said there would be a presentation on the Community Progress Partnership (CPP) next week. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 8 Council Member Cooper expressed concern that placing both the crime control district initiative and the economic development initiative on the same ballot in November might create confusion for the voters, resulting in them not being approved. Responding to Mr. Martin, Mr. Bray said the temporary board is the entity that has the authority to place the crime control district initiative on the ballot. Mr. Martin said that if the City Council would like to see the crime control district put before the voters, they should be prudent in appointing board members who also feel the citizens should be allowed to vote on the issue. A brief discussion ensued about the make-up of the temporary board. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience. Mr. J.E. O'Brien said people in this community generally support public safety, but because of the city's track record on various issues, he thought the possibility of the voters approving even a one-eighth cent tax increase was very slim. Mr. Roy Martinez said he did not think that all the options had been reviewed, such as possibly reducing the Regional Transportation Authority budget. Mayor Neal replied that the city does not have any authority over the RTA's half -cent sales tax; state legislation would be required to change that. Mr. Al Jones, Chairman of the CPP, said they would be bringing an almost -final report of the CPP next week. He said throughout the CPP process, they have understood the need for improved public safety, and the passage of the legislation allowing for the creation of a crime control district complimented those efforts and did not compete with them. Mayor Neal said the Council had been given a proposed resolution concerning the crime control district. Mr. Capelo made a motion to table the resolution until July 15th, saying that in Section 1 the resolution sets the tax rate at one-eighth of a cent. He said the City Attorney needed to provide an opinion on whether the Council has the authority to set that rate. Mr. Martin seconded the motion to table, and it passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Gonzales voting "No." Mr. Hennings said the next budget issue to be discussed was a review of Police Department law enforcement block grant funding. He explained that the Police Department is applying for three federal grants, one of which is on the day's agenda and another grant, brought before the Council a few weeks ago, with which staff is proposing to buy additional vehicles or replacement vehicles to improve the quality of the police fleet. The third grant will be coming before the Council in the near future to add additional officers to the police force, similar to the "Cops Ahead" grant of a few Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 9 years ago. Police Chief Alvarez explained why he was proposing to use one of the grants to purchase vehicles for the police fleet --23 police package vehicles and 10 unmarked vehicles, which he described. He noted that the fleet loses between three and four vehicles per month due to high mileage and resulting maintenance problems as well as accidents that occur. The Police Chief said this grant was a good opportunity to improve the fleet, which will have to happen sooner or later. Mr. Martin questioned the status of the police computer program. Chief Alvarez said the computer program is paid for and staff was waiting for it to be implemented. Mr. Martin asked if "crash and burn" vehicles were covered by the city's self-insurance fund, and Mr. Hennings replied that they were not. Mr. Martin suggested that the Police Department establish a system to meet that need. Mrs. Cooper asked if this grant was separate from a previous grant request to hire a consultant to study the Police Department's efficiency, and the Chief said it was separate. In reply to Mr. Garcia, Chief Alvarez said the unusable worn-out police vehicles are sold at auction. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal deviated from the day's agenda and opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: 7. Case No. 697-4. Patrick J. & Benigna T. Kotzur: A change of zoning from a "R -1B" One - family Dwelling District to an "AB" Professional Office District on Fairbairn Addition, Lots 1 and 3, located on the southwest corner of Up River Road and Werner Lane. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Martin made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Garcia, and passed unanimously. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 022978 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Patrick J. and Benigna T. Kotzur, by changing the zoning map in reference to Fairbaim Addition, Lots 1 and 3 from "R -1B" One - family Dwelling District to "AB" Professional Office District; providing for publication. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 10 An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Capelo, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Cooper absent. ************* Mayor Neal opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: 8. Case No. 697-5, S.F. Estates. Inc.: A change of zoning from a "B-1" Neighborhood Business District and "B-4" General Business District to a "R -IC" One -family Dwelling District on South Fork Subdivision, Block 2, 5.77 acres out of Lot 7, located along the east side of Rodd Field Road along the south side of The Mansions Drive. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Garcia, and passed unanimously. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 022979 Amending the zoning ordinance upon application by S.F. Estates, Inc., by changing the zoning map in reference to South Fork Addition, Block 2, 5.77 acres out of Lot 7 from "B-1" Neighborhood Business District and "B-4" General Business District to "R -1C" One -family Dwelling District; providing for publication. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; J. Longoria absent. ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 5, High -Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Initiative. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 5.a. M97-179 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $30,229 in supplemental funding from the Executive Office of the President, Office of Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 11 National Drug Control Policy to support the Police Departments role in the Texas Coastal Corridor Initiative in the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo absent. 5.b. ORDINANCE NO. 022974 Ordinance appropriating $30,229 in supplemental funding from the Executive Office of the President, Office of National Drug Control Policy to support the Police Departments role in the Texas Coastal Corridor Initiative in the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area in the No. 162 State/Federal Grants Fund. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 6, Southwestern Bell telecommunications franchise. There were no comments from the Council, and the Mayor called for comments from the audience. Mr. Roy Martinez said he objected to the proposal, adding that raising the franchise fee was another way of getting around the 6% rate cap. Mr. Hennings replied that under the present agreement, a large portion of the 9-1-1 fee collected by the Council of Governments comes from inside the city limits, although most of it is spent outside the city. The proposal is to obtain a more equitable distribution of that charge. In addition, the proposal calls for increasing the franchise fee so that the city will be recovering a fair return on the use of the public streets and easements by the telephone company. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 6.a. RESOLUTION NO. 022975 Resolution adopting a City Council Policy governing City Consent under Article IX, Section 2, of the City Charter for the use of City rights-of-way by providers of certain telecommunications services. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 12 6.b. M97-180 Motion to amend by substitution, prior to second reading, ordinance granting Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, pursuant to Article IX, Section 2, of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi, a Municipal Consent for use and occupancy of the public rights-of-way for the purpose of providing telecommunications services, for a period of two years commencing 60 days after passage of this ordinance. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin. McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." 6.c. ORDINANCE NO. 022976 Ordinance granting Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, pursuant to Article IX, Section 2, of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi, a Municipal Consent for use and occupancy of the public rights-of-way for the purpose of providing telecommunications services, for a period of two years commencing 60 days after passage of this ordinance. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading, as amended, by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." 6.d. M97-181 Motion to amend by substitution, prior to second reading, ordinance granting Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, pursuant to Article IX, Section 2, of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi. A Municipal Consent for use and occupancy of the public rights-of-way for the purpose of providing telecommunications services, for a period of 60 days. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." 6.e. ORDINANCE NO. 022977 Ordinance granting Southwestern Bell Telephone Company, pursuant to Article IX, Section 2, of the Charter of the City of Corpus Christi, a Municipal Consent for use and occupancy of the public rights-of-way for the purpose of providing telecommunications services, for a period of 60 days. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading, as amended, by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 13 "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." ************* Mayor Neal called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 9 through 22, and Council Members requested that Items 13, 14, and 19 be withheld for discussion. Mr. Hennings said he was postponing Item 15. There were no comments from the audience on any of the consent items. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 9. M97-182 Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 435 tons of Hydroflourosilicic Acid in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0153-97 with Pencco, Inc., Bellville, Texas, based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $59,773.35. The term of the agreement will 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 96-97 and have been requested for FY 97-98. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 10. M97-183 Motion approving a supply agreement with Ridgeway's, Corpus Christi, Texas for blueprinting service in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0156-97, based on low bid, for a total estimated annual expenditure of $48,085.91. The term of the agreement will 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 using departments in FY 96-97 and requested for FY 97-98. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 11. M97-184 Motion approving supply agreements for approximately 1,212 automotive and commercial batteries in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0163-97 with the following companies based on low bid for a total of $41,298.90. The term of the contract will be twelve months with 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. These batteries will be used by Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 14 Maintenance Services, Fire Department, and Park and Recreation. Funds have been budgeted by these departments for FY 96-97 and requested for FY 97-98. Texas Battery Service Corpus Christi. Texas Automotive Batteries Total: $24,584.90 Energy Battery Corpus Christi, Texas Commercial Batteries Golf Cart Batteries Total: $16,714.00 Grand Total: $41,298.90 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 12. M97-185 Motion approving the purchase of a truck -mounted water tank and spray system in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0166-97 from Crosstown Ford, Corpus Christi, on the basis of best bid in the amount of $81,088. The truck will be used by the Solid Waste Services Department and is included in the FY 96-97 Budget. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 15. POSTPONED $183,902 with Bracco Cat.structiat. Company fel the O.N. Steven s . Treat...et.t Plant. Aa,n atria O L;ne Piping I..stallat:a.. prej.,et. 16. M97-188 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract in the amount of $34,925 with Industrial Services USA for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant: Natural Gas Heater and Nitrogen Generator Addition project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 17. M97-189 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract in the amount of Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 15 $19,960 with Fairbairn Electric for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant: High Service Pump Building No. 1 Electric Feed Replacement project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 18. M97-190 Motion granting a six-month extension for a Special Council Permit granted on June 25, 1996 to Arlington Heights Church of Christ for a retirement complex (Zoning Case No. 596- 6). The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 20. ORDINANCE NO. 022981 Amending the Code of Ordinances Chapter 53 - Traffic, Section 53-250 - Schedule I, One- way Streets and Alleys, Section (a-1) School Areas, by establishing a one-way traffic pattern on 17th Street in the direction of Prescott Street to Elizabeth Street, during the school hours of T.G. Allen Elementary School. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 21. ORDINANCE NO. 022982 Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a 10 -year lease with Central Park Little League for 4.32 acres at Price Park in consideration of Central Park Little League maintaining the Premises and improvements and operating a little league program; and providing for publication. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 22. ORDINANCE NO 022983 Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a 10 -year lease with a 10 -year option to renew with Corpus Christi Independent School District to install, repair, maintain and operate a Ropes Team Building course located on approximately .78 acres of the 5.08 acre Casa Linda Park adjacent to Baker Middle School. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 16 The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 13, purchase of bucket trucks. Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Hennings said in next year's budget staff is using lease/purchase agreements for the General Fund replacement equipment that they feel need to be purchased. He said an exception is the pumper truck in the Fire Department, which is an annual requirement and is not being financed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 13. M97-186 Motion approving the purchase of three aerial bucket trucks in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0168-97 from Commercial Body Corporation, San Antonio, for the total amount of $294,754 on the basis of low bid. The trucks will be funded through the City's lease/purchase contract with GE Capital. The trucks will be used by Street Services Department and Parks and Recreation Department and are included in the FY 96-97 Budget with funding to be requested for the succeeding fiscal years. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 14, airport telephone system. In reply to Council Member Capelo, Mr. John Bacon, Director of Information Systems, said there were two proposals but one was disqualified because the necessary information was not furnished. He added that staff called several companies, and they responded that they did not think they could be competitive on this proposal. Mr. Bacon further explained the proposal process, and Mr. Capelo expressed concern about the level of competition in that process. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 14. M97-187 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with Wiltel Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 17 Communications, Inc., for the purchase of a new telephone system at the Corpus Christi International Airport. The agreement is for an equipment purchase price of $33,878, which includes a two-year warranty. The agreement also includes three one-year warranty extensions for $3,401.28, $3,005.28 and $3,005.28 respectively. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Capelo voting "No." * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 19, amendments to the City Investment Policy. Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Hennings said the current maximum allowable stated maturity for repurchase agreements is 31 days, and the City Investment Committee recommends that the term for repurchase agreements be increased to 365 days to increase investment opportunities. Dr. McNichols requested more information about repurchase agreements. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 19. RESOLUTION NO. 022980 Resolution amending the City Investment Policy to revise primary policy objectives; extend the maximum term for repurchase agreements; and to modify the Investment Committee Membership list. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal announced the closed session, pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 551.071, regarding the following: Kelly Lewis Jr. v. City of Corpus Christi et al, No. 94-1650-B, 117th District Court, Nueces County, Texas, with possible action in open session; and Onesimo Cruz et al v. City of Corpus Christi, No. 89-4954-D, 105th District Court, Nueces County, Texas, with possible action thereon in open session. The Council went into closed session. The Council returned from closed session. Council Member Capelo made a motion to approve the following actions, seconded by Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 18 Council Member Cooper. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 022984 Ordinance appropriating $1,500,000 from the Unreserved Fund Balance of the Self - Insurance Fund for lawsuit settlement. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "No"; McNichols absent. M97-191 Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute necessary documents in Onesimo Cruz et al v. City of Corpus Christi, No. 89-4954-D, 105th District Court, Nueces County, Texas, to settle all claims of all parties against the City for $1,500,000, in accordance with the agreement negotiated by the City's attorneys. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Capelo, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "No"; McNichols absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Hennings said there were several items scheduled for the July 15th Council meeting, including the public hearing on the city budget, the presentation on the Community Progress Partnership, the formal contract on the Wesley Seale Dam engineering study, and the closed session on the northside area land use planning (litigation around the Hillcrest area). Mr. Hennings said the meeting would begin at 10 a.m. and the closed session could be held during the lunch break, with the budget hearing beginning at 2 p.m. In his report, Mayor Neal said he had received several calls concerning the city's wastewater winter averaging program, and he requested more information. The Mayor also said he was extremely disappointed with the condition of the city and the lack of cleanliness, and he stressed the need to find ways to address that problem. Mayor Neal called for Council concerns and reports. Council Member Garcia requested an update on the Community Youth Development Program (78415 ZIP code area), and he suggested that an educational video be made about the heave at the Wesley Seale Dam, similar to the video made about the Lake Texana pipeline. He asked that staff look into possibly increasing the salary of the part-time judge at Municipal Court. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 8, 1997 Page 19 Council Member Cooper reported concerns from residents of St. James Court about the existence of a tall mound of concrete and other debris from the dredging of an adjacent ditch. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria suggested that after the budget is approved that staff develop a plan to try to clean up the city. Council Member Capelo asked the Council members to suggest names of people to possibly serve on the Community Youth Development Program Steering Committee. In addition, he asked that there be a discussion next week about the Wesley Seale Dam Oversight Committee, including its goals. Mr. Garcia asked if there was a plan for street improvements to older streets. Mr. Hennings replied that there are two ways to accomplish that: through the Community Development Block Grant program and also through the voluntary pavement program and bond elections. Mr. Garcia said he was concerned about the streets around Sam Houston Elementary. He also commented on possibly implementing a free day for people to dispose of trash at the landfill to assist in the clean-up effort. Mr. Hennings noted that people can take trash from their own residence to the landfill by showing their utility bill. Council Member Gonzales advised the Council that he intended to discuss the restriction in the City Charter against city employees participating in city politics. A brief discussion ensued, and Mayor Neal said that much more discussion was needed. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal declared the Council meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m. on July 8, 1997.