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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 05/12/1998I 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 May 12, 1998, which were approved by the City Council on May 19, 1998. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 19th day of May, 1998. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINI JTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 2:05 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Arnold Gonzales Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero Melody Cooper Alex L. Garcia Jr. Betty Jean Longoria John Longoria Edward A. Martin Dr. David McNichols 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 Mr. George Dawson, Corpus Christi International Seamen's Center, 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 Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of April 28, 1998, and the special Council meeting of May 5, 1998. As there were no corrections, he proclaimed them approved as presented. The Mayor then noted the following changes in the day's agenda: Item 2, the resolution honoring Tom and Cora Keeler, was being postponed because the Keelers could not be present; Item 17, agreement with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, was being withdrawn; Item 20, right- of-way closure, will have some amendments; and Item N., closed session regarding collective bargaining with the Corpus Christi Police Officers Association, was being canceled. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal referred to the first presentation, an update on Operation Clean Sweep. Mr. Vic Menard, Chairman of Neighborhood Visions Inc. (the non-profit corporation which manages Operation Clean Sweep), introduced Ms. Sue Corey, the city's Zoning and Code Enforcement Administrator and a member of that organization's board. She described the recent successful mission, saying that 22 structures at 21 sites were demolished by the National Guard, the Code Enforcement Division, and the Police Department during 91.5 hours in eight days. Mr. Menard Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 2 added that the cost of most of the debris and asbestos removal was paid for from Community Development Block Grant funds. He also thanked sponsors of Operation Clean Sweep, including CITGO, BFI, Koch, and CP&L, and city staff who assisted. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The next presentation was made by Mr. Billy Parks, District Engineer for the Corpus Christi District of the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). Mr. Parks described several TXDOT projects that are currently under construction in the city and others being planned, including Holly Road, access roads along South Padre Island Drive, and Spur 3. He said TXDOT would be accepting bids on several projects in June, such as rehabilitating several frontage roads and ramps along I11-37; overlaying pavement on SH 44 near Clarkwood; and a major rehabilitation of Crosstown Expressway, which he described. He added that TXDOT has "fast -tracked" a project to install a barrier fence on SH 358/Park Road 22 in Flour Bluff to discourage pedestrians from crossing that freeway. He thanked Council Member McNichols for his involvement in that project, particularly in light of recent pedestrian fatalities on that road. Mr. Parks announced that Mr. Brian Wood will take over as Area Engineer on June 1, 1998, and he thanked Mr. Martin Timmerman for his work as the Interim Area Engineer. Mr, Parks also announced that there will be a public meeting about the JFK Causeway project on May 13`h at the Flour Bluff High School cafeteria, as well as a meeting on June 8th about the Joe Fulton International Trade Corridor. He said there are three projects for which he is recommending that planning begin: widening Crosstown Expressway from six to eight lanes from Padre Island Drive to IH -37; interchange of SH 286 (Crosstown) and IH -37; and a new Harbor Bridge. With regard to the new Harbor Bridge project, Mr. Parks said he has been talking with Mr. Frank Brogan, Director of Engineering Services for the Port of Corpus Christi Authority, about that project for a year, and he noted that it has recently received media attention. Mr. Parks commented that the planning and construction time for a new Harbor Bridge will be very lengthy, which emphasizes the need to begin planning soon. In response to questions from Mayor Neal, Mr. Parks said TXDOT anticipates letting bids for the Crosstown-SPID interchange in fall 2000 (with construction completed in about 2004). He added that another Priority I project is the Ennis Joslin/Spur 3 connection from SPID, which should be let in January 1999 and completed about 1V2 years later. The Mayor asked what would be required to move the JFK Causeway project from Priority II to Priority I in the funding cycle. Mr. Parks said that project would require about $15 million in local participation toward the estimated $33 million cost. Even if the city receives $3 million from Congress to raise the causeway, said Mr. Parks, its traffic volume of about 20,000 cars a day gives Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 3 it a poor cost/benefit ratio. For those reasons, the causeway project does not compete well with transportation projects in other Texas cities. Mayor Neal also asked about TXDOT' s mowing contract, and Mr. Parks said he thought the initial bids were excessive and he relet those bids. He agreed with the Mayor that the highways in Corpus Christi have overgrown weeds and many litter problems. Mayor Neal emphasized the need to clean up the city, and Mr. Parks said those problems exist in other TXDOT districts as well. In response to another question from the Mayor, Mr. Parks said TXDOT has a contract for $188,000 to the State Set -Aside Program which utilizes MHMR to collect trash on highways; as a result, TXDOT cannot use city and county prisoners to pick up litter. He said he would prefer to use prisoners and that stipulation needs to be changed in Austin. Council Member McNichols asked if there were other sources of funds for the JFK Causeway project, and Mr. Parks said two possibilities were the Texas Transportation Commission and the State Infrastructure Bank, which he briefly explained. Dr. McNichols asked if Mr. Parks could provide a definitive statement explaining that the causeway project cannot expect full state funding and will need local participation in order to get constructed, and Mr. Parks said he could approach the Transportation Commission with that request. Responding to Council Member Garcia, Mr. Parks said the Technical Advisory Panel, with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, prepared a packet of information regarding the issue of a new Harbor Bridge. He reiterated that planning and constructing a new bridge will take many years and he would support letting a consultant contract this year to study the issue. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria pointed out that FM 624 is in need of major expansion although it is not included in TXDOT's current list of projects, adding that she has discussed that issue with Mr. Parks and city staff. She also asked about the status of accessing the county's road and bridge fee. Mr. Hennings said the Texas Municipal League has unsuccessfully lobbied during several legislative sessions to have that fee changed and they will attempt it again in 1999. Council Member John Longoria commented on the rehabilitation of Crosstown Expressway and the need for more greenery on the city's highways. Mr. Parks said the Corpus Christi TXDOT District does not have a landscape architect on staff, although he is working to bring a landscape architect from another district here on an occasional basis. Council Member Gonzales asked about TXDOT's mowing frequency on local roadways, and Mr. Parks said mowing occurs once about every 11/2 months. Dr. Gonzales commented on the poor state of the city's roadways due to high grass and litter, and the need to raise the JFK Causeway. He also stated that the current height of the Harbor Bridge does not hamper the flow of tanker traffic to the port, and Mr. Hennings added that the port industries have indicated that a new Harbor Bridge Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 4 is not a high priority. Dr. Gonzales said he does not want to deter planning for a new bridge in the next several years, but he believes that the JFK Causeway is more important at this time. Council Member Colmenero asked about the timing of constructing a new Harbor Bridge, and Mr. Parks said he thought it would be about 20 years before it could be classified as a Priority I project and go under contract, and he also commented on the process that would be followed. With regard to the JFK Causeway project, Mayor Neal said the city is grateful about the possibility of receiving $3 million from Congress and city officials are committed to making that project a reality in the near future. * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said city prisoners should be used to mow grass within the city limits and county prisoners used for mowing in the county, and he emphasized the need to repair pot holes on streets throughout the city. Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, quoted from a report prepared by the Texas Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities regarding the lack of political power of persons with disabilities and the importance of self-determination. Mr. Phil Rosenstein discussed a proposal by the Regional Transportation Authority to double the fare for elderly and disabled persons on the Care B. He said the RTA Board will be having a public hearing on June 3`d. Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, commented on the turtle -excluder devices that shrimpers are required to use, and he said they are not responsible for the deaths of sea turtles; rather, polluted waters are killing the turtles. Mr. Jimmie Till, 1265 Southern Minerals Rd., said the refineries should be kept in mind regarding what is needed at the port. He added that state highways within the city limits are not the only roads with litter and weed problems. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 3-18. Council members and an audience member requested that Items 8, 16, and 18 be withheld for discussion. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 5 3. M98-149 Motion approving a supply agreement with Business Envelopes, Inc., San Antonio, TX in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0126-98 for approximately 2,610,000 mail -out and return envelopes and 30,000 sheets of perforated paper based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $32,546.10. The term of the agreement shall be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two additional twelve month periods, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by the Utilities Business Office and Municipal Court in FY 97-98. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 4. M98-150 Motion approving a supply agreement for muffler and exhaust system repair service in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0145-98 with Shaffer's Muffler & Automotive, Corpus Christi, for the total amount of $18,148, based on low bid. The term of the contract is twelve months with options to extend for up to two additional twelve month periods, subject to the approval of the contractor and the City Manager or his designee. The contract will be administered by the Maintenance Services Department and Fire Department. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Colmenero voting "No." 5. M98-151 Motion approving the purchase of one Hewlett Packard Unix Workstation including the server, monitor, CD-ROM Drive, uninterrupted power supply, modem, cable and one year warranty from Integrated Computer Systems, Austin, TX in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0085-98, based on low bid meeting specifications for a total of $24,459. Funds have been budgeted by the Planning and Development Department in FY 97-98. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 6. M98-157 Motion approving a supply agreement for computer paper in accordance with Bid Invitation BI -0134-98 with Nationwide Papers, San Antonio, TX, based on low bid of $15,881.91. The term of the agreement will be twelve months with option to extend for up to two additional Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 6 twelve month periods, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. The computer paper is used by the Police Department, and it is purchased into Warehouse inventory and issued out to various departments throughout the City. Funds have been budgeted by the using departments for FY 97-98. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 7. M98-153 Motion approving the purchase of hot tapping and plugging equipment in accordance with Bid Invitation BI -0159-98 from T.D. Williamson Inc., Tulsa, OK, for the amount of $111,600.50, based on sole source. The equipment is to be used by the Gas Department and is budgeted in the FY 1997-98 Capital Outlay. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 9. M98-154 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Bechtol Construction in an amount not to exceed $32,845 for the Wiggins Park Improvements. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 10. M98-155 Motion granting a two-year extension for a special permit granted to Domingo and Elena Valadez for nonresidential uses permitted in the "AB" Professional Office District (Zoning Case No. 396-1) on April 30, 1996 and extended to April 30, 1998. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 11. M98-156 Motion authorizing a parachute jump event within the City Limits on May 16, 1998 in conjunction with Halo Flight's anniversary celebration. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 7 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 12.a. M98-157 Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute an amendment to Contract No. 7460005741-98 with the Texas Department of Health in the amount of $10,464 providing for tuberculosis prevention and control services during the period September 1, 1997 - August 31, 1998. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023303 Ordinance appropriating a grant in the amount of $10,464 from the Texas Department of Health in the No. 162 Federal/State Grants Fund -Health Department for tuberculosis prevention and control services during the period September I, 1997 - August 31, 1998. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 13.a. M98-158 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a renewal grant in the amount of $528,999 in Title III State General Revenue funds and execute a contract with the Area Agency on Aging of the Coastal Bend. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 13.b. ORDINANCE NO 023304 Ordinance appropriating $528,999 from the Coastal Bend Council of Governments - Area Agency on Aging in the No. 162 Federal/State grants fund for the Elderly Nutrition Program. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 8 14.a. M98-159 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a renewal grant in the amount of $45,356 and execute a contract with the Corporation for National and Community Service for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 14.b. ORDINANCE NO 023305 Ordinance appropriating $45,356 from the Corporation for National and Community Service in the No. 162 Federal/State Grants Fund for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 15. ORDINANCE NO. 023306 Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Use Privilege Agreement with Water Works Car Wash for the right to construct, install, and maintain a private 3 -inch Force Main that will be routed through the Sand Dollar Avenue, Gaviota Drive, and Ocotal Drive right-of-ways to provide sanitary sewer service to Water Works Car Wash; and establishing a fee of $930. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 17. WITHDRAWN * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 8, Cunningham pump station storage building improvements. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 9 Council Member Garcia asked about the planned improvements to the Cunningham pump station. City Manager Hennings said air conditioning and improvements would be made to make the building suitable for archival storage of water system records. Mr. Garcia pointed out that Municipal Court also needs storage space for their records, and he asked if one large storage area could be obtained for all required records storage. Mr. Hennings said there could be one centralized storage area, although he thought it would be more expensive to do that. He also commented on the decentralized nature of the city's departments, including the Water Department. Mr. Ed Garana, Water Superintendent, explained that the Wesley Seale Dam records, which are currently located in the basement of the Cunningham plant, have begun to deteriorate and the proposal is to create a climate -controlled area in the existing lab building (once the lab equipment has been removed) which will serve as the archival area for the dam records. He said they also plan to refurbish the existing offices in the Cunningham facility for use by the Lake Texana personnel. Mr. Garcia said he was not opposed to this item if it eventually would be used for personnel, but he said staff should begin considering the idea of a centralized records storage area. Council Member Martin asked what functions are occurring at the Cunningham facility at this time. Mr. Garana replied that there are tenant activities through Koch and Celanese, but there are no city personnel there. Mr. Martin said he thought this proposal was a mistake because it involved reopening a facility that for all practical purposes has been shut down. In addition, it would involve having staff there with no supervision. Mr. Martin questioned why a storage facility could not be located at the Stevens Water Treatment Plant, and he pointed out that there is a house adjacent to the Stevens Plant that could be used. Mr. Garana explained that there is limited office space at Stevens and he had planned to move safety personnel from the Stevens plant to the Cunningham pump station. Mr. Martin said he thought this project would be very expensive. Mr. Hennings said he wished to withdraw Item 8 in order to consider options raised by the Council members. 8. WITHDRAWN Steiage Building Iruhrever.ie..ts. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 16, lease agreements for the Tex Mex Railroad Depot and the Buddy Lawrence House. Mr. Abel Alonzo expressed concern about the proposal to provide $60,000 from the FY97 Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 10 Community Development Block Grant Program to assist in the rehabilitation and relocation of the Tex Mex Railroad Depot to Heritage Park through an agreement with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance. Mr. Alonzo said that several organizations did not receive funding during the CDBG hearing two weeks ago because of a limited amount of funds; however, this project for the Alliance was funded, which Mr. Alonzo criticized. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Hennings said this proposal was approved by the City Council on March 17, 1998, as an amendment to the FY97 Consolidated Annual Action Plan. He pointed out that one of the stated purposes of the CDBG program is to promote economic development, and this proposal is consistent with that purpose. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 16.a. M98-160 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance to provide $60,000 from the FY 97 Community Development Block Grant Program to assist in the rehabilitation/relocation of the Tex Mex Railroad Depot to Heritage Park. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 16.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a twenty-year lease agreement with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance for the Tex Mex Railroad Depot to be located at Heritage Park (Lots 1 through 6, Block 79, Beach Portion of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas) to be used as a visitors center in consideration for providing complete rehabilitation of the facility, visitor services, and the continued maintenance of both the interior and exterior of the building. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 16.c. M98-161 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to provide $399,000 for the rehabilitation/relocation of the Buddy Lawrence house to Heritage Park. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 11 B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 16.d. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a twenty-year lease agreement with the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for the Buddy Lawrence house to located at Heritage Park (Lots 4,5, and 6, Block 60, Beach Portion of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas) to be used for operations of the Chamber of Commerce as well as for tourist and convention promotion in consideration of one hundred and fifty dollars ($150) monthly and interior maintenance of the facility. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 18, speed limit increase on Holly Road. In reply to Council Member Garcia, Mr. Hennings said a speed limit change was made last year on another section of Holly Road --from Carroll Lane to Ayers Street. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 18. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 53 - Traffic, Article VIII - Schedules, Section 53-254, Schedule V — Increase in State Speed Limit in Certain Zones on Holly Road (from 35 MPH to 40 MPH between Everhart Road and a point 500 -feet west of Carroll Lane). The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Colmenero, Cooper, and Martin absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for a short recess. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item K, FY 1998-99 capital budget and the 1999-2003 capital improvement program (CIP) planning guide. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 12 City Manager Hennings explained that last year the Council asked staff to accelerate the planning process this year so they will be able to consider the capital improvement budget at the same time they consider the operating budget. He said this workshop presentation on the capital budget was the first of many scheduled in the next few months for both the capital budget and the operating budget. He suggested that during the next discussion the Council focus on the city's debt service requirements in upcoming years and the likelihood of the city's capacity to accommodate additional debt through increased revenue sources, such as increasing the property tax rate or instituting a transportation user fee. Council Member Martin noted that there are three projects that still need to be completed from the 1986 bond program: McArdle Road (from Carroll to Everhart), Airline Road Phase 2 (from Wooldridge to Saratoga), and Nile Road (from Pharaoh Drive to Ennis Joslin Road). He suggested they review those three projects and determine if they can be reduced to two projects in order to close out the 1986 bond program. Mr. Martin also suggested that staff identify which projects, if any, would be sales tax -eligible. Mr. Carl Crull, Assistant City Manager for Public Works and Utilities, noted that the proposed FY 1998-99 capital budget totals $118,400,700, and of that amount, $13,095,700 is designated for airport improvement projects, such as the terminal reconstruction project, airfield drainage improvements, and parking lot improvements. The airport projects are supported by Federal Aviation Administration grants, passenger facility charges, and other airport revenue. Mr. Crull said $81,710,500 is proposed for utilities system projects (water, wastewater and stormwater), which are supported by revenues of the Combined Utility Fund. Those portions of the capital budget continue the programs initiated in previous years. Some of the water projects include the Up River Road transmission main replacement, elevated and ground storage tank rehabilitation, Stevens Plant upgrades and rehabilitation, and continuation of planning and construction of the Southside transmission main. Wastewater system improvements include continuation of the collection system rehabilitation, inflow and infiltration projects, odor control at the Laguna Madre and Allison wastewater treatment plants, and chlorine removal projects. Stormwater projects include continuation of upgrades to the stormwater system which were identified in the last capital improvements program and which had planning and design funds allocated. The Assistant City Manager said that while the airport and combined utilities system have the revenue streams to support their capital program, the remainder of the capital budget ($23,594,500) is allocated between parks, streets, public facilities, and public health and safety. Of the total proposed capital budget of $118,400,700, staff is proposing that $16,400,000 be funded through a bond election. Without a bond election, the general obligation capital budget program would be about $7 million; however, that assumes that certificates of obligation would be issued to satisfy the city's requirements for the McArdle, Nile and Airline street projects, and that the city will recover the contractor bond for the City Hall construction project and proceed with those repairs. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 13 Mr. Crull said staff has included in the proposed CIP a draft listing of projects to be funded through a bond program, which total $134,160,000 (of which $86,785,000 would be used for street improvements). He pointed out that that list will be adapted as input is received from the public, various city boards and commissions, the Planning Commission and the City Council. He briefly reviewed some of the projects included in that list. Mr. Martin asked if the proposed improvements to the health facilities, specifically the clinic, would be eligible for CDBG funds. Mr. Hennings said they would determine that and inform the Council. Mr. Martin also suggested that staff prepare a three- to five-year tentative schedule for implementing the different bond program projects which may improve the program's acceptance by voters. Council Member Cooper expressed concern that the expansion of Yorktown Boulevard (Staples to Rodd Field) was not scheduled until the fifth year of the CIP; Mr. Crull replied that the scheduling of the projects is subject to discussion. Council Member Gonzales said there has been a problem for years with the drainage ditch on Columbia that runs through several westside neighborhoods, and he requested a report on options to improve the ditch. Responding to a question from Council Member Garcia, Mr. Hennings said staff could request funding assistance from Nueces County on that project. In reply to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, Mr. Crull said most of the construction funds to improve FM 624 would come from TXDOT or the MPO, although the city might participate in utility relocations and off-site drainage. Responding to other questions, Mr. Crull said the expansion of the Northwest Branch Library would result in a total of 12,000 square feet. Mr. Hennings further discussed issues concerning the voluntary paving program and he said additional discussion with the Council was needed. Council Member McNichols pointed out that if the bond program is approved, it will result in an increase in property taxes. He then asked Mr. Crull to list the streets that presently have qualified petitions on record with the city: Annaville Road (Starlite to Violet); Catcay and Azores (Caribbean to the cul-de-sac); Jamaica Drive (Caribbean to Mediterranean); Brookdale Drive (Gollihar to Sunnybrook); Woodlawn Drive (McArdle to SPID); Laguna Shores Road (Caribbean to Mediterranean); and sidewalks on Whiting Drive (Churchill to Lanier). He said the funding for those projects alone would be $2,385,000. In response to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Crull explained the process involved in the voluntary paving program. He also described the different phases of improvements to McArdle Road that have taken place. Mr. Garcia and Mrs. Longoria questioned some of the projects, including water front improvements near the Texas State Aquarium, City Hall exterior repairs, animal control facility, and improvements to McKinzie Road, to which Mr. Hennings and Mr. Crull replied. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 14 Responding to Mayor Neal, they also discussed prior year funding amounts (work in progress) and future needs. Mr. Hennings emphasized that while much still needs to be done, much progress has also been made over the last 30 years in capital improvements in Corpus Christi. Mr. Hennings added that the next CIP discussion will be held on June 16th. ************ Mayor Neal opened the public hearing under Item 19, closure of a portion of the right-of-way of County Road 69. He then called for comments from the audience. Mr. Pat Romero said he was representing Calallen Independent School District. He said the school board reluctantly voted to support the proposal, which will require the school district and Columbia Northwest Hospital to pay for a new traffic signal and driveways to relieve congestion on FM 624. He said the board felt strongly that this should be a city project and not be paid for totally by the school district and the hospital. Ms. Natalie Carnahan, a representative of the River Ridge Homeowners Association, said the traffic light at the proposed location is sorely needed. She thanked the Council, city staff, and representatives of the school district and hospital for their cooperation. Mr. Winston Borland, CEO of Columbia Northwest Hospital, also commented on the collaborative nature of this project and the great amount of time involved on it. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria echoed his appreciation to those involved. Council Member McNichols made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Garcia, and passed. Mr. Garcia asked if the school district's funds for the project were coming from their general fund, and Mr. Romero indicated they were. Mr. David Seiler, City Traffic Engineer, further explained that at this time there are no more funds in the city's capital improvement program for traffic signal improvements, and an arrangement such as this is not unusual and follows city policy. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 19.a. ORDINANCE NO 023307 Ordinance closing, but not abandoning, a portion of the right-of-way of County Road 69 at each of its intersections with Riverway Drive and River Rock Drive, that portion at each intersection being a 5 -foot wide tract of land containing 560.31 square feet of land out of a portion of County Road 69 (Hazel Bazemore Road), and erecting barricades at each intersection to prevent vehicular access through the intersection. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 15 An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 19.b. M98-162 Motion approving an agreement with Columbia Riverside Hospital, Inc. and the Calallen Independent School District in which each entity will reimburse the City an amount not to exceed $47,500 for construction of new traffic signal control at the intersection of FM624 at River East Drive. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 19.c. M98-163 Motion approving an agreement with Columbia Riverside Hospital, Inc. for its reimbursement to the City in an amount not to exceed $20,000 for construction of two cul- de-sac tee -turnarounds at County Road 69 and Riverway Drive and at County Road 69 and River Rock Drive. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 19.d ORDINANCE NO. 023308 Ordinance appropriating $95,000 from Columbia Riverside Hospital, Inc. and Calallen Independent School District's reimbursement in the No. 220 Streets Capital Projects Fund for a new traffic signal control at the FM624/River East Drive intersection; amending Ordinance No. 023174 which adopted the FY 97-98 Capital Budget, to add $95,000 to the Streets Program. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened the public hearing under Item 20, closure of a portion of Columbia Parkway right-of-way. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 16 City Secretary Chapa read the captions of the corrected ordinances (as indicated below). Council Member Garcia made a motion to amend Items 20.a. and 20.b., seconded by Council Member McNichols, and passed. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Mr. Garcia made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mrs. Cooper, and passed. Responding to Council Member Martin, City Attorney Bray discussed the legal basis for the situation where the value can be reduced by taking away the obligation to maintain. Mr. Hennings noted that this proposal would close the whole street and lease to the company a portion of an adjoining drainage easement; consequently, the city will no longer have to maintain that street. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 20.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023309 Ordinance closing and abandoning a 12,807 -square foot portion of Columbia Parkway street right-of-way south of the South Padre Island Drive right-of-way, subject to compliance with the specified conditions and the owner, Oneta Company d.b.a. Pepsi Cola Bottling Company of Corpus Christi, replatting the property within 180 days at its expense. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed, as amended, by the following vote: Colmenero, Garcia, Gonzales, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Cooper and B. Longoria absent. 20.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a twenty-year usage lease with the Oneta Company d.b.a. Pepsi Cola Bottling Company of Corpus Christi for the occupancy of 4,560 square feet of the Airport Drainage Ditch right-of-way to allow its trucks use of the drainage right-of-way to turn, reverse, and maneuver more freely on the adjacent property; and establishing a fee of $800 as payment for the first five year lease increment. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading, as amended, by the following vote: Colmenero, Garcia, Gonzales, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Cooper and B. Longoria absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: 21. Case No. 498-1, H.E. Butt Store Property Co. No. 1: A change of zoning from an "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District and "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to a "B-4" General Business District on Mahan Place, Block 1, Lots 1, 2, and 19, located on the southeast corner Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 17 of Gollihar and Kostoryz Roads. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-4" General Business District on Lot 1, and denial of the `B-4" District on Lots 2 and 19, and in lieu, approval of a "B-1" Neighborhood Business District on Lots 2 and 19. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Gonzales made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Colmenero, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 21. ORDINANCE NO. 023310 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by H.E. Butt Store Property Company No. 1, by changing the zoning map in reference to Mahan Place, Block 1, Lot 1, from `B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "B-4" General Business District, and Mahan Place, Block 1, Lots 2 and 19, from "R -1B" One -Family Dwelling District to `B-1" Neighborhood Business District. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, 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: 22. Case No. 498-2. Reuben and Bernette Pattillo: A change of zoning from an "A-2" Apartment House District to a "B-4" General Business District on Club House Place, Lot 5, located on the south side of South Alameda Street, between University Drive and Claremore Street. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "B-4" General Business District, and in lieu, approval of an "AB" Professional Office District with a special permit for a multi-purpose pavilion, meeting hall, and swimming pool subject to a site plan and six (6) conditions. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Garcia made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded and passed. Mr. Garcia asked if parking there was sufficient, and Mr. Utter replied that it was. In response to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Utter said prior to the Pattillos purchasing Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 18 the facility, it was operated as a non-profit organization; now it is for-profit and requires new zoning. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 22. ORDINANCE NO. 023311 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Reuben and Bemette Pattillo, by changing the zoning map in reference to Club House Place, Lot 5, from "A-2" Apartment House District to "AB" Professional Office District and granting a special permit for a multi- purpose pavilion, meeting hall, and swimming pool, subject to a site plan and six conditions. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, 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: 23. Case No. 498-4 Alan Doty: A change of zoning from an "AB" Professional Office District to a "B-1" Neighborhood Business District on Lawndale Subdivision Unit 1, Block 11, Lots 18-20, located on the southwest corner of South Staples and Blevins Streets. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-1" Neighborhood Business District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Garcia made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Colmenero, and passed. Mr. Garcia asked if this business would have adequate parking, and Mr. Michael Gunning, Acting Director of Planning and Development, explained that it would. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 023312 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Alan Doty, by changing the zoning map in reference to Lawndale, Block 11, Lots 18, 19, and 20 from "AB" Professional Office District to `B-1" Neighborhood Business District. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Cooper absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 19 Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 24, adopting the Consolidated Annual Action Plan. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 24.a. M98-164 Motion adopting the FY 98 Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant and HOME Programs. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "Aye" on the CDBG and ESG programs and abstaining on the HOME program, Cooper absent. 24.b. RESOL iTION NCI, 023313 Resolution adopting the City of Corpus Christi Consolidated Annual Action Plan for Community Planning and Development Programs for FY 98; authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit the Consolidated Annual Action Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to make changes in the Consolidated Annual Action Plan if required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "Aye" on the CDBG and ESG programs and abstaining on the HOME program, Cooper absent. * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 25, community residential facility on Saratoga Boulevard. He called for comments from the audience. Mr. Danny Noyola, Superintendent of West Oso Independent School District, said the school district was opposed to the facility being located on Saratoga Boulevard. He said District 3, including the area around the West Oso schools, has been chosen as the location for many businesses that have not favorably impacted the community. Mr. David Noyola said the people in the neighborhoods around West Oso are concerned about this proposed residential treatment facility, and he asked the Council to reject the facility's proposal. Mr. Abel Alonzo urged the Council to not send the wrong message that Molina does not Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 20 count and he asked them to vote against the proposal. Mr. Lucas Jasso said there was much opposition from people in Molina regarding this facility. Mr. Robert Horton, representing Cornell Corrections, said it is the third largest private corrections industry in the United States, and they have been operating pre-release facilities (such as the one proposed) for 22 years. He said there is a problem with substance abuse and Cornell provides the vehicle for people to transition back into society. He said they chose the site on Saratoga because it is not located near a school or residential facility. Mr. Horton added that they notified the County Commissioners and County Judge about their interest in that location, and they did not receive any opposition from those county officials. He also disputed myths regarding these residential facilities. Mr. Julian Devereux, facility director of the Dallas County Judicial Treatment Center in Wilmer, said they understand the concerns raised. He said that in seven years no crimes have been perpetrated against Wilmer citizens by residents at their facility. He also described how the Corpus Christi facility would be operated. He emphasized that Cornell plans to be an asset to Corpus Christi in a variety of ways. Mr. Cliff Atnip said he has been working with Cornell representatives to find an appropriate location for a residential facility. He also referred to a list of treatment facilties throughout the city. Mr. David Noyola said the location of such a facility on Saratoga would hurt the development of that area. He and his brother reiterated their opposition. Council Member Martin said the Council did not oppose the proposal to locate a treatment facility at 1501 N. Tancahua. He also noted that the proposed location at Route 3, Box 460, Saratoga Boulevard is not even in the city limits, therefore it is not located in District 3 as stated. Mr. Utter explained that under the state statute, if the facility (even though it is located outside the city) is within 1,000 feet of residentially zoned property or a hospital or school, then it comes before the Council. At that point, the Council can take action or not. Responding to another question from Mr. Martin, Mr. Horton said he had notified the Commissioner's Court via certified mail and there was no objection raised. He added that they will be holding another public hearing on this issue. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Utter said since the Council did not take action on the Tancahua location, if it moves forward it will have to come back before the Council as a zoning case because it does not have appropriate zoning. Mr. Colmenero said the Port has verbally objected to the Tancahua location and the Alliance has objected to the proposed site at 1301 Chaparral (as did the City Council). In reply to Mr. Colmenero, Mr. Horton said the school is 1.7 miles from the Saratoga location. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 21 In reply to Council Member Garcia, Mr. Utter said if the site (measured from the property line) was located outside of 1,000 feet from residentially zoned property within the city, the Council would not have authority in this case. Mr. Garcia said he would have preferred to have more information about the proposed facility. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 25. FAILED The foregoing resolution failed to pass by the following vote: Colmenero voting "Aye"; Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "No"; Cooper absent. ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 26, stormwater management document. City Manager Hennings said this was one of a series of items needed to implement the federal government's stormwater management program. Ms. Valerie Gray, Stormwater Superintendent, said this is one of four remaining compliance due dates. She said this proposed guidance document provides technical criteria for the assessment of water quality impacts from new flood control projects. The adoption of this document is a mandatory requirement of the city's stormwater permit, which was issued on June 1, 1995 by the Environmental Protection Agency. Ms. Gray explained that this document will provide an important additional aspect to drainage design criteria addressing stormwater runoff quality, while the existing criteria focuses on stormwater runoff quantity. She then explained the proposed requirements in the management document that will affect future development. They were listed in the document under the following headings: channel side slopes, bank stabilization, vegetated buffer strips, outfall structures, velocity control structures, berms to control overland flow, and project review. She also responded to Council members' questions, and explained that the first two requirements would be carried out through a demonstration project by the city. Ms. Gray noted that this document was discussed with several members of the development community and it was presented to the Planning Commission and the Stormwater Management Advisory Committee for their review, discussion and approval. EPA's compliance due date for formal adoption of the document by the City Council is June 1, 1998. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 22 Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 26. FIRST READING ORDINANCF Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 13, Building; Construction and Related Operations; Housing and Housing Premises Standards and the Corpus Christi Platting Ordinance regarding the adoption of a Stormwater Management Guidance Document for assessment of water quality impacts from new flood control projects. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 27, bayfront parks improvement projects. City Manager Hennings said this item implemented the grant received from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for improvements on Shoreline Boulevard. He said staff had reviewed the design of this project with the Council several weeks ago and now the construction contract is ready to be awarded. The Mayor called for comments from the audience, and there were none. In response to Council members' questions, staff showed an illustration of the design and Mr. Carlos Mendez, Superintendent for Park Planning, emphasized that the project includes park lighting. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 27.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023314 Ordinance appropriating $778,175 from the sale of City property to the General Services Administration in the No. 220 Streets Capital Projects Fund; transferring $778,175 from the No. 220 Streets Capital Projects Fund to the No. 291 Parks Capital Projects Fund for Bayfront Improvement Projects; appropriating $778,175 in the No. 291 Parks Capital Projects Fund, $283,175 for the Bayfront Improvement Projects: Bayfront Parks, and $495,000 in the No. 291 Parks Capital Projects Fund for the Bayfront Improvement Projects: IH -37 Park; amending Ordinance No. 023174, which adopted the FY 97-98 Capital Budget, to add $778,175 to the Park and Recreation Program. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 23 27.b. M98-165 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Duncan -Russo, Inc. in the amount of $444,503 for the Bayfront Improvements Project - Bayfront Parks. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 28, telephone system upgrades. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Council Member John Longoria asked if staff kept track of non -budgeted expenditures during the year, and Mr. Hennings said they could provide a report. Mr. John Bacon, Director of Information Systems, said the items were included in the budget with the exception of the $23,669, and money is available for that. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 28.a. M98-166 Motion approving the purchase of telephone system hardware and software upgrades for City Hall, the Police Building and the Service Center from Norstan Communications Inc. on a sole source basis for a total cost of $75,488. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 28.b. M98-167 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with Norstan Communications, Inc. for the purchase and installation of a voice processing system for the Service Center at a cost of $43,119. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 28.c. M98-168 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement option with Norstan Communications, Inc. for the purchase and installation of a voice processing system for City Hall at a cost of $23,669. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 24 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * ************ Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 29, purchase of personal computers. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Responding to Council Member Martin, Mr. Bacon explained what is included in one of the computer units; in addition, some printers are also being purchased. He added that the computer environment is a client -server environment in which part of the processing power is on the server and part is on the workstation. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 29. M98-169 Motion approving the purchase of not more than 176 personal computers, printers, and software through the cooperative purchasing agreement with the State of Texas, through December 1999, not to exceed $404,800. These computers are the additional units included in the Human Resources/Financial computer systems approved by the City Council on March 24, 1998. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal recessed the regular Council meeting for the meeting of the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation. * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal reconvened the regular Council meeting and called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Hennings said some of the Council members had met with residents on Del Mar Boulevard who are requesting a change in the design for the Del Mar street improvement project. He said staff would provide a detailed report on the issue. Mr. Hennings said the Council had also received a copy of a letter from Mr. Juan Garza, President of Corpus Christi Power & Light Company. In his letter, Mr. Garza asked that during a future meeting the Council consider granting a franchise to his company. Mr. Hennings said another option would be to await an opinion from the Texas Attorney General. He said since the Council took action on the franchise during a prior meeting, he will not place this item on a future agenda unless instructed to by the Council. Mr. Hennings also said there will be a news event May 13th regarding the continuing investigation of the seawall, and on May 15th there will be an event kicking off the ozone action season. Minutes Regular Council Meeting May 12, 1998 Page 25 Council Member Betty Jean Longoria commented that last Sunday was an ozone action day and there was only a small item in the local newspaper. Mr. Hennings said the television weather reporters are good about announcing ozone action days. He added that the levels of ozone on Sunday exceeded the new standards, which he briefly explained. The City Manager said items scheduled for the May 19t Council meeting include the quarterly report from the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance and the monthly report on the Lake Texana pipeline. The meeting of May 26th has been reserved for interviews of city manager candidates beginning at noon. Responding to Mayor Neal, Mr. Hennings said the Ozone Task Force still meets every month, in addition to having several subcommittees working on various issues. Council Member Colmenero referred to information regarding possibly changing the roof color of Memorial Coliseum. He said it has been suggested that the roof color be coordinated with the organizations which will be using the coliseum, such as the Ice Rays hockey team. Mr. Hennings pointed out that there was a maintenance project which would put a coating on the roof but it would match the previous color. He said there were no funds to implement the many suggestions made by Mr. John Wright and a committee of the Downtown Management District, unless it is funded through the capital improvement program. Following a brief discussion, Mr. Colmenero made a motion to direct staff to meet with the DMD committee regarding the roof color of Memorial Coliseum, and to bring back a recommendation at the next regular Council meeting. The motion was seconded and it passed. Mr. Colmenero also said he had received many calls from constituents concerning problems with rodents and possums. Mrs. Longoria commented that some of those concerns can be addressed during the budget process because they pertain to service levels. Mr. Hennings added that the city's Animal Control Department does not have a program to address possums other than to pick up the animal after it has been caught and placed in a bag. He said Vector Control deals with rodent control on a limited basis, but that is basically handled by private pest control companies. Mr. Colmenero also asked that the issue of possible privatization of city services be addressed through the upcoming budget process. Mayor Neal pointed out that a complete evaluation of the Police Department would be undertaken which should correlate with Mr. Colmenero's questions. Council Member Gonzales asked about the status of the outside Police Department study. Mr. Hennings said the proposals should be brought back to the Council within the next few weeks. Responding to another question from Dr. Gonzales, Mr. Hennings reiterated that he would provide a report about the street improvements project in the Del Mar area. Coinciding with Dr. Gonzales' concems about the Del Mar project, Council Member Garcia requested additional information about the process that is followed when a neighborhood project is constructed in stages. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal declared the Council meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m. on May 12, 1998.