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17, agreement with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, was being withdrawn; Item 20, right-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
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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
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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
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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:
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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
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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.
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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."
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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.
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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
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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,
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.