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.
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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
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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.
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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:
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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."
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.