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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 08/18/1998I 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 August 18, 1998, which were approved by the City Council on August 25, 1998. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 25th day of August, 1998. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 2:05 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Edward A. Martin Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero* Melody Cooper Alex L. Garcia Jr. Dr. Arnold Gonzales Betty Jean Longoria John Longoria Dr. David McNichols City Staff: City Manager David R. Garcia 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 Rev. Tom Burdett, Unitarian Universalist Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States was led by Council Member Cooper. 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 August 11, 1998, and there being no corrections, he proclaimed them approved as presented. *Council Member Colmenero arrived at 2:08 p.m. ************* Mayor Neal referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. Mr. Frank Brogan, Project Director for the Lake Texana pipeline, reviewed the progress that has been made in the last month. He said the project is about 95% complete and still on budget, and to date 76 miles of pipe have been filled with water and pressure tested. In addition, the LNRA pump station is 95% complete, and the Woodsboro pump station is about 92% complete. Mr. Brogan also described slides of aerial photos of the pipeline, and he said they anticipate the pipeline to be fully operational by the end of September. Mr. Brogan also explained the process that is used in pressure - testing the line. The second presentation was made by Mr. James Dodson, Regional Director of the Nueces River Authority/Coastal Bend Division, regarding the Senate Bill 1 Regional Water Planning Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 2 Program. Using computer graphics, he described the history of regional water planning beginning with the Trans -Texas Water Program from 1992-95, which developed two integrated water supply plans. He said both plans included the following: the 1995 Agreed Order on freshwater inflows; accelerated and additional municipal water conservation; industrial water conservation; the Lake Texana pipeline; and the purchase and diversion of the Garwood water rights. He said those measures would result in 83,000 acre-feet per year of additional water, which would meet the region's water needs through the year 2039. Water demands beyond that year could be met by either of the following two plans: Plan A - build a pipeline from Choke Canyon to Lake Corpus Christi; or Plan B - modify the reservoir system operating policy regarding the level of Lake Corpus Christi, and purchase and divert additional Colorado River water. Mr. Dodson explained that the 75th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 1 in response to the 1996 drought. He described several elements of Senate Bill 1, which calls for decentralized, regional planning; involves an inclusive, open public process with 11 specific interests represented; develops water resources management strategies (rather than water supply plans); and contains explicit environmental criteria. Mr. Dodson also listed the tasks that have been accomplished in implementing Senate Bill 1, including the formation of the Coastal Bend Regional Water Planning Group in February 1998. That group, in tum, designated the Nueces River Authority to facilitate the planning program. Other tasks still to be accomplished in the water planning schedule include obtaining a grant from the Texas Water Development Board for 75% of the state's share of the cost; collecting the 25% local cost share from the participating governmental entities; preparing the regional water management plan; and submitting that plan to the TWDB by September 1, 2000. Mr. Dodson also discussed several other elements of the regional water planning process, including water supply projections, alternatives, and new tools in developing water supplies. Mr. Dodson also presented an update on the desalination feasibility study, including the status of the Tampa Bay Desalination Project; the TWDB planning grant for investigating membrane technologies; and the San Patricio Municipal Water District's (SPMWD) membrane treatment facility. He noted that the Nueces River Authority submitted a proposal in conjunction with the City of Corpus Christi, the SPMWD and Central Power and Light Company, and they have been recommended to be awarded a contract to accurately quantify the cost of various membrane treatment technologies on different levels of dissolved solids (ranging from slightly brackish water to seawater). He said former City Manager Bill Hennings had agreed to fund $10,000 toward that study, which could become a $95,000 study once the state contributes its portion. City Manager Garcia said there are still many issues that need to be discussed regarding the city's participation with the Nueces River Authority. In response to Council members' questions, Mr. Dodson further explained how the regional water planning costs would be distributed among those in the regional water system through the raw water rates. Council Member McNichols, who is a member of the Coastal Bend Regional Water Planning Group, noted that while the state mandated that regional water planning be conducted, Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 3 Corpus Christi and the region for years have been actively involved in planning and developing water resources. He pointed out that the city is paying for its share of the regional water planning costs and acting as the agent for collecting the other costs so the process can move forward. Council Member Gonzales commented that he hoped people who have publicly expressed an interest in the desalination issue will be included in the planning for it. Mr. Dodson said one of the members of the consultant team is currently the president of the American Desalting Association. The Last presentation was the quarterly update by the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance. Mr. Joe Fulton, Alliance Chairman, introduced Ms. Laurie Cook, Chairperson -Elect, and Ms. Char Beltran, Vice President of Tourism and Conventions. Ms. Cook said two new companies have opened in Corpus Christi --Billing Concepts and Millward Brown International. She also noted that South Texas has been determined to meet the general requirements as a possible location for a space port. The Alliance, in conjunction with several others, will prepare an initial qualification package to be sent to the state and to Lockheed, which will then issue a request for proposals to successful candidates in November. Ms. Cook also announced that the Alliance's Economic Development Department will be hosting the Texas Economic Development Council in September, and she discussed efforts by the Alliance and their membership in retaining the 512 area code in the Corpus Christi area. She also reported on the success of the Legislative Weekend that was held in Corpus Christi last month. She noted that 32 legislators were in attendance, including Speaker of the House Pete Laney, and they represented 30 different House committees (including eight committee chairpersons or vice chairs). She thanked the city for its participation, in particular Ms. Linda Hodge for coordinating the children's activities during the weekend. In response to Dr. McNichols, Ms. Cook said that Shiner, Moseley & Associates has been hired as a consulting engineer on the space port project and they are working closely with the Texas Aeronautical Commission on it. Mr. Joe Moseley and Mr. Gary Bushell, CEO of the Alliance, briefly described the space port project. Ms. Beltran said that on August 1st the Alliance began their new program of work and they have entered into discussions with Texas National Tour Company, which "packages" Texas cities as tourist destinations. She said the Alliance has a direct consumer advertising program in place through December and they have hired USA 800 to take the calls that will be generated through that advertising campaign as well as to track the calls. Ms. Beltran added that the Alliance now produces a six-month calendar of events, and Texas A&M is proposing to conduct a visitor profile study for the Alliance. She also reminded the Council that Mr. Jose Luis Calderon, a television producer from Mexico City, visited Corpus Christi last week scouting locations for tourism programs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 4 Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. Mr. Jim Hietpas, 3723 Rojo Court, said the city has not been assisting disabled persons; as an example, he said there are broken sidewalks and uneven curb cuts that create an impediment for persons with disabilities. He also said he has been stopped by the police for using his motorized wheelchair in the street because cars are blocking sidewalks, particularly along Ayers Street. Mayor Neal asked City Manager Garcia to have Police Chief Alvarez or his representative attend the next meeting of the Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities to obtain specific information on the concerns raised by Mr. Hietpas. The Mayor added that the city has been working to assist disabled persons, such as through meeting ADA requirements in accordance with the city's budget constraints. Council Member John Longoria pointed out that the city has a telephone number that people can use to report such things as cracked sidewalks, malfunctioning traffic signals, etc. Ms. Kay Noyes, 930 Coral, echoed Mr. Hietpas' call for better access for disabled persons. She said a wheelchair-bound friend of hers has to cross Everhart (in the area between Holly Road and North Shea Parkway) to get to work. She said her friend would like to have a pedestrian - activated yellow crossing light installed --at the proper height for a person in a wheelchair --to allow him to cross Everhart safely at that location. Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, said when the Council adopted its budget, people were told that the same tax rate would fund the budget and there would be no tax increase. However, he said, at their last meeting eight Council members voted to publish a notice entitled "Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Increase." Mr. O'Brien also quoted from a portion of the July 28, 1998 minutes regarding the employee classification ordinance, which was passed as an emergency due to substantive changes that were made which were not part of the ordinance on first reading. He questioned whether the emergency reading complied with the definition of an emergency as outlined in the City Charter. He said the Charter also requires that a written request by the Mayor or five Council members be submitted to declare an emergency. He said he thought the practice has been that the written request is signed after the fact, and he added that hopefully that will be changed. Mr. O'Brien also questioned items on the consent agenda that are passed as an emergency. Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, said he attends the board meetings of the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance and he encourages full inclusion and diversity on that board, which he said has not yet been achieved. He also said the Alliance should report negative items as well as positive ones in order to gain the confidence of the community. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 3-15. City Secretary Chapa stated that Council Member Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 5 Betty Jean Longoria had filed a disclosure affidavit and she would be abstaining from discussing or voting on Item 7. Council members and an audience member requested that Items 4, 7, 10, 12, 13, and 14 be withheld for discussion. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 3. M98-281 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an amendment to the agreement with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance authorized by Motion M98-160 (assisting rehabilitation/relocation of the Tex Mex Railroad Depot to Heritage Park) to increase the amount funded by the City by $33,450. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 5. M98-283 Motion approving a supply agreement with International/Hughes Supply, Corpus Christi, Texas, for approximately 29,000 feet of Schedule 40 PVC pipe ranging in size from 1/4" - 12"; 16,000 fittings; and miscellaneous cements and primers in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0184-98 based on low total bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $67,333.02. The term of the supply agreement will be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two additional twelve-month periods, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds are budgeted in FY 98-99 by the using departments. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 6.a. ORDINANCE NO. 0234Q6 Ordinance adopting a portion of the FY 98-99 Capital Budget to implement the Kostoryz Road - South Padre Island Drive to Holly Road Drainage Improvement Study, Stage 1. 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." 6.b. M98-284 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for engineering Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 6 services with Goldston Engineering, Inc. for a total fee not to exceed $187,800 for the (a) Kostoryz Road Utilities Adjustments - Holly Road to Saratoga Boulevard; (b) Kostoryz Road - South Padre Island Drive to Holly Road Drainage Improvement Study; and (c) Lift Station Improvements & Carolyn Heights Diversion to Greenwood Plant projects. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 8.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023407 Ordinance appropriating $77,300 from the Unreserved Fund Balance in the No. 132 Maintenance Service Fund to upgrade City -owned elevators to comply with state law; amending the FY 98-99 Budget, adopted by Ordinance No. 023387, to increase appropriations by $77,300 in the No. 132 Maintenance Service Fund. 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." 8.b. M98-286 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Montgomery Kone in the amount of $77,300 to upgrade City -owned elevators to comply with the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 9.a. M98-287 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $17,827 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division for the continued operation of the Police Department's Crime Analysis Unit and to execute all related documents. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 9.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023408 Ordinance appropriating $17,827 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 7 Justice Division in the No. 162 Federal/State Grants Fund for the continued operation of the Crime Analysis Unit; transferring $37,952 from the No. 102 General Fund and appropriating it in the No. 162 Federal/State Grants Fund as grant matching funds. 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." 11. M98-289 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement for funds provided from the FY 98 Emergency Shelter Grant Program with the following agencies: a. Corpus Christi Metro Ministries, Inc. - $63,500 to provide essential services, operation & maintenance, minor rehabilitation and homeless prevention at 1919 Leopard. b. Hope House - $14,000 for operation and maintenance at 658 Robinson. c. Dos Mundos Day Care School, Inc. - $35,000 to provide essential services, operation and maintenance and homeless prevention at 849 Erwin. d. Gulf Coast Council of La Raza - $43,000 to provide essential services and operation and maintenance at 2203 Baldwin Boulevard. e. Catholic Social Services - $10,000 to provide homeless prevention at 1322 Comanche f. The Women's Shelter - $10,000 to provide essential services, operation and maintenance and homeless prevention. g. Coastal Bend Legal Services, Inc., - $7,500 to provide essential services and homeless prevention at 102 Pueblo Street. h. The Salvation Army - $10,000 to provide essential services and operation and maintenance at 1507 Mestina. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 15. ORDINANCE NO, 023412 Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 13, Buildings; Construction and Related Operations; Housing and Housing Premises Standards, to increase the technical construction code fee schedules; providing an effective date of September 1, 1998. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 8 Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 4, agreement for additional services with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance. He then called for comments from the audience. Mr. J.E. O'Brien referred to the portion of Item 4 which states "in consideration of additional funding of $110,000 as previously approved by the City Council for the Alliance's budget," and he questioned whether it is in violation of the Texas Constitution (Article 11, Section 3). Mr. O'Brien also quoted from an Attorney General's 1974 opinion regarding the question of whether a county may become a dues -paying member of a Chamber of Commerce, which is a corporation. City Attorney Bray replied that that Attorney General's opinion was directed at the powers of counties, which are considerably different. He said the Constitutional provision has to do with not owning stock in business corporations, and he pointed out that the Alliance is a non-profit corporation. Mr. Bray added that this kind of contract is fully authorized in various parts of the Texas statutes and there is consideration for the Alliance performing services that are being paid for. Mr. Abel Alonzo said that while he does not agree with everything the Alliance does, he feels that eventually they are going to do the right thing and he has confidence in Mr. Bushell. Mr. Alonzo said if the Latin market program is successful it will increase the city's tax base and provide jobs. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 4. M98-282 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an Agreement for Additional Services with the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance whereby the Alliance will develop and implement a Latin Market Program aimed at increased convention and tourism business and trade with Mexico, South and Central America, and the domestic Hispanic market in consideration of additional funding of $110,000 as previously approved by the City Council for the Alliance's budget. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; McNichols voting "No"; Garcia abstaining. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 7, Airport Ditch outfall improvements. In response to Council Members John Longoria and Arnold Gonzales, Mr. Carl Crull, Assistant City Manager for Public Works and Utilities, described the location of the Airport Ditch and channel enhancements that will be made to La Voila Creek running north and south of Saratoga Boulevard to Oso Creek. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 9 7. M98-285 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for engineering services with Govind & Associates Inc. for a total fee not to exceed $329,853 for the airport ditch outfall improvements and Broadway Plant lift station and diversion to Greenwood Plant/Nueces River Delta project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, J. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; B. Longoria abstaining; Colmenero and Martin absent. ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 10, Police Department Gang Analysis Unit. Replying to Council Member John Longoria, Police Chief Alvarez said the Gang Analysis Unit will consist of a gang analyst and a data entry clerk who will handle all of the intelligence that the police gathers regarding gangs in the city, including identifying gangs and establishing gang trends. Mr. Longoria said he thought the Police Department was doing an exceptional job in addressing that problem. Council Member Garcia asked how the Police Department's efforts are measured. City Manager Garcia replied that the Council needs to be informed about decreases in crime as a result of police efforts. Chief Alvarez pointed out that to date, crime in Corpus Christi has decreased by 9.6% from last year's statistics. He added that staff prepares monthly and annual statistics reports for the FBI which shows the department's progress. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 10.a. M98-288 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $62,732 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division to establish a Police Department Gang Analysis Unit and to execute all related documents. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 10.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023409 Ordinance appropriating $62,732 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division in the No. 162 Federal/State Grants Fund to establish a Police Department Gang Analysis Unit. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 10 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 discussion on Item 12, agreements for CDBG funds. In response to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, Mr. Tom Utter, Assistant City Manager for Development Services, said the organizations will oversee their own projects and the city will monitor them. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 12. M98-290 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement for funds provided from the FY 98 Community Development Block Grant Program with the following agencies: a. Boys & Girls Club of Corpus Christi - $150,000 for improvements to the facility at 3902 Greenwood. b. Goodwill Industries of South Texas, Inc. - $150,000 for the expansion of the facility at 2961 S. Port Ave. c. Gulf Coast Council of La Raza - $200,000 for the construction of Phase 1 of a charter school. d. Housing Authority of the City of Corpus Christi - $47,000 for ADA compliance and security fencing at 1410 Arlington and 4117 Gollihar. e. The Salvation Army - $37,500 for restroom ADA compliance at 1502 Lipan. f. The Ark Assessment Center Emergency Shelter for Youth - $112,500 for the construction of a facility at 12910 Up River Road. 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 13, relocation of Kelly Air Force Base workload. Council Member Gonzales said it is important for the legislative delegation from Corpus Christi to be made aware of the Council's and the Alliance's support for relocating the jobs from Kelly AFB. City Manager Garcia said they were endorsing a community -wide effort that is being spearheaded by the Alliance. He added that copies of the resolution will be sent to the congressional delegation and the appropriate military officials. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 11 13. RESOLUTION NO 023410 Resolution endorsing the resolution of the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance supporting the relocation of power system workloads from Kelly Air Force Base to Corpus Christi Army Depot. The foregoing resolution 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 14, compliance with the Fair Housing Act. Council Member Garcia noted that the Council had discussed the proposed amendments to the city's ordinance last week upon first reading, and he had indicated then that he thought the Council needed to add two more members to the Human Relations Commission (for a total of 15). Mr. Garcia then made a motion to amend Item 14 prior to second reading to appoint two more members to the Human Relations Commission; specifically, one member who shall be in the business of selling dwellings and one member in the business of renting dwellings. He said he wished to maintain open lines of communication on the commission. City Attorney Bray distributed copies of suggested language in accordance with Mr. Garcia's proposed amendment. Council Member Colmenero seconded Mr. Garcia's motion to amend. Council Member Gonzales said he wished to make a motion to table because he had not had an opportunity to meet with members of the community on the proposed amendment. He said regardless of any good intentions, Mr. Garcia's proposal would send out the wrong message. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria questioned Mr. Garcia's proposal, saying that none of the other members of the commission represent a specific interest, with the exception of the Director of Coastal Bend Legal Services, who holds an indefinite term on the commission. Mr. Garcia replied that last week the Council was told that a good rapport had developed between the Human Relations Commission, the Apartment Association and the Board of Realtors during the process of bringing the city's ordinance into compliance with the Fair Housing Act. Council Member John Longoria said he did not see the need to specify that two members of the Human Relations Commission represent the interests of selling and renting of dwellings. He said currently the commission members are appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council, and he said they would make certain that the commission reflects the various racial, religious, ethnic and other groups in the community. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 12 Rev. Willie Davila, Chairman of the Human Relations Commission, said currently there are two people on the commission who are in related business activities: the vice president of Landlord Resources and another member who manages properties. He said in the past there have been members from the real estate industry who have served on the commission. Rev. Davila said the system works the way it is currently structured, and he envisioned practical problems with Mr. Garcia's proposed amendment. Mr. Garcia said he thinks housing interests should be represented on the commission since it will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the Fair Housing Act. Dr. Gonzales said he would withdraw his motion to table. Mr. Abel Alonzo said he understood Mr. Garcia's good intention in proposing the amendment, but he said the system is working now. He said the Mayor and Council now have the power to appoint anyone they wish and he urged the Council to vote against Mr. Garcia's motion. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on the motion to amend Item 14, and it passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Garcia, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Cooper, Gonzales, J. Longoria, and B. Longoria voting "No." Dr Gonzales spoke against the change in the Human Relations Commission membership that had just been approved. He said last week when the Council considered the ordinance on first reading, there was consensus on the amendments that would be made. He said now it appears that the commission is being "stacked" with certain members, and it is unfair to those who support fair housing but who do not support the change in the membership. Dr. Gonzales reiterated that they should have had time to debate the membership issue. He then made a motion to table Item 14 for one week, but the motion died for lack of a second. Mr. Garcia pointed out that the minutes from last week's meeting reflected his comment that he wished to add two more members to the commission. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Item 14 as follows: 14. ORDINANCE NO. 023411 Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 24, Human Relations, Articles I-IV "Discrimination in Housing"; providing for Fair Housing Act compliance, prohibiting discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, family status, or national origin; providing a procedure for investigating and settling complaints of discriminatory housing practices; giving the Corpus Christi Human Relations Commission power to issue subpoenas and order discovery to conduct hearings, to order relief, to assess civil penalties not to exceed $50,000; providing for enforcement by the City Attorney; providing for civil remedies and attorney's fees; providing for criminal penalties; providing for other matters related thereto; and establishing an effective date. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 13 The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading, as amended, by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: 16. Case No. 798-1. First National Bank: A change of zoning from a "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to a `B-4" General Business District on McKinzie Partition, Tract 6, being 3.791 acres out of Item 6 (McKinzie Subdivision, Block 2, Lot 1), located on the southeast corner of McKinzie and Up River Roads. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-4" District. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience. Mr. Chris Yauklin, 10602 Atlanta, said that while he thought the bank would be appropriate next to his neighborhood, he was concerned about future uses of the subject property if it is rezoned to "B-4" and the bank is no longer operating there. He said "B-4" zoning would allow undesirable uses such as topless bars, automotive businesses, and nightclubs, and he felt it would be a mistake to grant that zoning just to allow the bank to increase the height of its sign. Mr. Robert Gandy, President of First National Bank, said that at the Planning Commission meeting they had a long discussion with the neighbors. He said the bank has been in operation since 1934 and they intend to invest about $2 million in the subject property. He added that "B-4" zoning is appropriate because the property is located on IH -37 and McKinzie Road, a major arterial. Mr. Gandy said the neighborhood is protected by a large cedar fence and their homes do not front on McKinzie Road. Council Member Garcia made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Colmenero, and passed. In reply to Mr. Garcia, Mr. Utter said the Zoning Ordinance does not allow special permits for signage, which he explained. He added that it is an issue that continues to come up and staff probably needs to review it further. With regard to the "B-4" zoning, Mr. Utter pointed out that `B-4" already exists on two of the other corners, and he emphasized that sexually oriented businesses are not allowed in `B-4." Council Member Betty Jean Longoria also expressed concern about the `B-4" zoning, saying that that property along McKinzie between Leopard Street and Up River Road consists of family type businesses as well as a library. Mr. Utter said the vote at the Planning Commission was 4-3 in favor of `B-4" zoning. He said the bank is requesting `B-4" not only to accommodate a certain size sign but also for it to be high enough to be seen from the highway overpass. Mr. Bob Payne, Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 14 Assistant City Planner, pointed out that the proposed bank building's height exceeded the height limitations for the existing `B-1" zoning; therefore, "B-4" zoning would be required. Responding to Council Member McNichols, Mr. Payne reviewed a map of the subject property and adjacent properties. Dr. McNichols said that while he was not opposed to a bank being located there, he was concerned about future uses if the property is rezoned to `B-4." Mr. Utter pointed out that the Council could grant a special permit to accommodate the height of the bank building but not for the signage. Mr. Chapa polled the Council, and the ordinance failed to pass by the following vote: Cooper, Garcia, J. Longoria, and Martin voting "Aye"; Gonzales, B. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "No"; Colmenero absent. Mayor Neal said that with a zoning case such as this, he wanted to be sure that all Council members were present for the vote. Mr. Longoria asked if the applicant could reapply for the zoning change; Mr. Utter said he could not reapply for a period of one year after the rezoning was denied. Mayor Neal noted that Mr. Colmenero had returned to the meeting, and he asked how the zoning case could be reconsidered. City Attomey Bray said it would require a motion by one of the people who voted on the prevailing side. Mayor Neal made a motion to reconsider Item 16, seconded by Mr. Longoria. Mr. Chapa polled the Council on the motion to reconsider, and it passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; Gonzales and McNichols voting "No." Mr. Chapa then polled the Council for their votes on Item 16 as reconsidered: 16. ORDINANCE NO. 023413 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by First National Bank, by changing the zoning map in reference to Lot 1, Block 2, McKinzie Subdivision, from "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "B-4" General Business District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviation from the existing Comprehensive Plan. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, J. Longoria, and Martin voting "Aye"; Gonzales, B. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "No." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 15 17. Case No. 798-3, Morteza Shafinury: A change of zoning from an "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to a "B-4" General Business District on Bass Subdivision, Block 27, Lot 0, located on the north side of Saratoga Boulevard, approximately 200 feet west of Summer Ridge Drive. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-4" District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member McNichols made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Colmenero, and passed. Council Member Martin asked if this case represented "phased down" zoning Mr. Utter had previously discussed. Mr. Utter said it did not; rather, this case involved a major arterial where the arterial is becoming "B-4" and the properties backing up to the arterial are "R -1B." He said the properties to the west and east of the subject property are `B-4," as well as across the street. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 023414 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Morteza Shafinury, by changing the zoning map in reference to Lot 0, Block 27, Bass Subdivision, from "R -1B" One -family dwelling to "B-4" General Business District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviation from the existing Comprehensive Plan. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for a brief recess. * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal opened discussion on Items 18 and 19 regarding the taking of land designated as a wildlife and bird sanctuary at the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant for the construction of sludge lagoons. City Manager Garcia explained that the Council had discussed this item at length last week, and one of the reasons it was tabled for one week was to explore the possibility that MCS Technologies could perform the work for less cost than in the proposed contract. He said staff met with representatives of MCS Technologies and they realize the full scope of the project and agree that they could not perform the work for less money. Consequently, he said staff is prepared to move Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 16 forward with the original recommendation. The Mayor called for comments from the audience. Mr. Tim Chaney, representing MCS Technologies, thanked the Council for the opportunity to present their technology to the city. He apologized for the fact that they had not learned about this project before last week, and he said they feel that with more time they could have refined their proposal and possibly have been competitive. He also pointed out that the equipment used in the centrifuge process requires very little room to operate. Mr. Chaney also referred to questions raised last week by Council Member Martin, and he stated that MCS Technologies does not have projects identical to this project in which they were treating this type of sludge material. However, he said, the cities of Chicago and Detroit employ the centrifuge technology using the same type of equipment as MCS Technologies. Council Member John Longoria asked what MCS Technologies would do with the material that would result (after the sludge was mechanically de -watered). Mr. Chaney said his company, which typically deals with industrial wastes, would not assume responsibility for the processed material, but he said it would not be difficult to deal with. City Manager Garcia reiterated that MCS Technologies' process would cost between $400,000 and $600,000 more than the recommended process. Ms. Pat Suter thanked city staff for meeting with representatives of the Audubon Outdoor Club of Corpus Christi Inc. regarding the issue of access to the sanctuary at the Stevens Water Treatment Plant and to "Pollywog Pond" (the east and west sludge lagoons). She said that while they are not happy with the loss of the 35 acres of habitat at the treatment plant, they hope they can come to a working relationship with the city. She also invited the Council to the hawk festival that will be held in September in Calallen. Ms. Suter added that in the future they would appreciate it if the Council held a public hearing on an issue and then waited a week before taking any action. Council Member McNichols said he was disturbed by an article in the local newspaper about some agreements that had apparently been made without first discussing it with the Council. In particular, he said he did not want any restrictions placed on future development or use of the Stevens Plant property. He asked about public access to that area, and City Manager Garcia said the members of the birding community had particularly expressed interest in having access to Pollywog Pond. Mr. Utter added that the 10 acres that would remain as habitat at the Stevens Plant site could be made accessible to birders once per year during the annual bird count. City Manager Garcia clarified that staff had also discussed making other land accessible to birders that the city already owns. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 18.a. RESOLUTION NO. 023415 Resolution relating to the taking of the land designated as a wildlife and bird sanctuary at the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant for the construction of sludge lagoons. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 17 The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye." 18.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023416 Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 6, Animal Control, by repealing the provision designating portions of the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant as a wildlife and bird sanctuary. 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.a. ORDINANCE NO, 023417 Ordinance adopting a portion of the proposed FY 98-99 Capital Budget for construction of the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant: Sludge Lagoons and Presedimentation Basin Rehabilitation, Stage 1 project. 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. M98-291 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Garrett Construction, Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $2,348,968 for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant: Sludge Lagoons and Presedimentation Basin Rehabilitation, Stage 1. 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 20 regarding the collection, transportation, and disposal of liquid wastes. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. In response to Council Member Garcia, Mr. Crull explained that staff had provided a comparison of what a person would pay to have their septic tank pumped out versus what a person using the wastewater system would pay in wastewater charges. In response to another question from Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 18 Mr. Garcia, City Manager Garcia and Mr. Crull explained that the prices listed in the background material were staff's estimate of the current rates in the marketplace, although the city has no control over what private companies charge their customers. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 20.a. M98-292 Motion to amend prior to second reading by substitution of a revised ordinance which establishes an effective date of February 15, 1999; provides for permit revocation appeal to the City Manager; defines "territorial jurisdiction"; and provides for penalties consistent with the Commercial and Industrial Waste Disposal Ordinance. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "No." 20.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023418 Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 55, regarding the collection, transportation and disposal of liquid wastes; providing for repeal of conflicting ordinances. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia voting "No." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 21, establishing a fee schedule for the sale of mulch. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 21.a. M98-293 Motion to amend prior to second reading by amending Section 21-33 to read that the Director of Solid Waste Services shall sell mulch and shall allow residents to take small quantities of mulch at no charge. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia and Martin voting "No." Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 19 21.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023419 Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 21, Garbage, Trash, and Other Refuse, to establish a fee schedule for the sale of mulch; providing for an effective date of September 1, 1998. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading, as amended, by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Garcia and Martin voting "No." ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 22, purchase of computer networking equipment. City Manager Garcia explained that this equipment will establish the network connections at City Hall, Municipal Court, and Maintenance Services. He noted that Item 23 will provide for expansion of the computer network into the Phase 2 systems, which had not previously been planned. He said it will involve connecting all of the major remote locations of the city, allowing for automation of bookkeeping, personnel and financial records. Mr. Garcia said this will be accomplished within the budget because savings had been achieved in other areas. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 22. M98-294 Motion approving the purchase of networking equipment from McCall Services, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $261,676 to connect basic sites for the new computer systems. This purchase is made through the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program. Funds are available through the Computer System Replacement Fund. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, McNichols, and Neal voting "Aye"; Martin absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 23, purchase of networking equipment for enhancements to the basic system. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Responding to Council Member McNichols, City Manager Garcia said this item is very cost- effective because it creates the electronic network in several city facilities, allowing for sharing of information among them. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 20 23. M98-295 Motion approving the purchase of networking equipment from McCall Services, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas for Phase II of the computer replacement project in the amount of $274,203 for enhancements to the basic system which will add additional sites not previously scheduled for service connectivity. This purchase is made through the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program. Funds are available through the Computer System Replacement Fund. 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 24, purchase of computer implementation assistance services. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. In response to Council Member McNichols, Mrs. Barbara Sudhoff, Director of Municipal Courts, explained that representatives from Court Specialists (the selected vendor for the new court computer system) do not have experience in implementing Hewlett Packard products. Consequently, the implementation assistance program from Hewlett Packard will assist the court staff and the vendors in configuring the computer hardware. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 24. M98-296 Motion authorizing the purchase of Hewlett-Packard's Server system Implementation Assistance Service (Jump Start) from BCS Systems, Houston, Texas, for the total amount of $31,980. This purchase is through the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program. The service will be utilized by Municipal Court in implementing the new automated system. Funding will be provided through the Computer System Replacement Fund. 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 25, purchase of computer equipment for the South Texas Library System. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa said that since tie bids were received from Computer City and Microtek Sales for the purchase of 23 color monitors, the award would have to be determined by a casting of lots. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 21 Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Utter said the 23 color monitors (Item 25.b.) will cost $4,784 and the grand total of the computer purchases is $76,642. Mr. F.D. Glenn, Purchasing Agent, placed the names of Computer City and Microtek Sales in a box, and City Attorney Bray drew the name of Computer City. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 25.a. M98-297 Motion approving the purchase of computer equipment from the following companies for the following amounts to be used by the South Texas Library System in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0194-98 for a total of $76,642 based on low bid, low bid meeting specification, and best bid ($4,784 is awarded trader Motion No. M98-298). Funding will come from state and federal grants. Computer City Corpus Christi. TX Items 1-5, 7, 10-13,18, 22, 24, 30,31,33, 34, 39, 41&45 $52,506 UNX Cybernetics Corpus Christi. TX Items 26, 27 & 29 $1,689 DD Computer Warehouse Corpus Christi, TX Item 20 $358 Microtek Sales Corpus Christi. TX Items 9, 25, 28,37, 38,42-44 $4,487 DIR Austin. TX Items 6, 14-17,19, 21,23, 32 $10,399 TOTAL: $71,858 Microstop Computer Systems Corpus Christi. Texas Item 36 $1,980 Computer Education Solutions Corpus Christi. TX Items 35 & 46 $439 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; McNichols absent. 25.b. M98-298 Motion approving the purchase of 23 color monitors (Item 8) from Computer City, Corpus Christi, Texas, for a total of $4,784. The grand total of bids awarded under BI -0194-98 is $76,642. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; McNichols absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 22 Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 26, Crosstown Expressway illumination rehabilitation. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Council Member Martin asked if the Texas Department of Transportation would be carrying out the illumination rehabilitation project separate from the resurfacing project. Mr. Crull said they would not --he said TXDOT officials have set a bid date of November for the overlay project, which will include the lighting project. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 26. M98-299 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an advance funding agreement with the State of Texas, acting through its Texas Transportation Commission, setting forth responsibilities for the reconstruction of expressway illumination of S.H. 286 (Crosstown Expressway) from Interstate 37 to S.H. 358 (S. Padre Island Drive Expressway), and authorizing the deposit of $96,155.40 with the Texas Department of Transportation as the City's share of construction costs. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garcia, Gonzales, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, Martin, and Neal voting "Aye"; McNichols absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 27, structure of the Municipal Arts Commission. In response to questions from the Mayor, Mr. Dan Whitworth, Acting Director of Park and Recreation, explained that this was a result of the Community Cultural Plan that was developed through public input in conjunction with the Municipal Arts Commission (MAC). He said the staffing within the Park and Recreation Department's Cultural Services Division has been aligned to coincide with the recommendations from the leadership committee of the Community Cultural Plan, along with these recommended changes in the MAC. Mayor Neal pointed out that one of the recommended changes was to take away appointment of the commission members by the mayor. Mr. Whitworth replied that that was an oversight on the part of the staff. Council Member Martin made a motion to table Item 27 to correct that oversight; the motion was seconded and it passed (McNichols absent). 27. POSTPONED Ainentditig the Cenpus Clnisti Codc of Ordiaai.ccs, Chapter 2,Adrh,istiatiei., Division 6, Municipal Arts Commis'siei., S&tiei, 2 100, L'stublishc,d; Ft act,oa, Me„ the s/np and 2-101, Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 23 Cet„mi0sion expanding thc meinbeisl.ip fren. 15 to 17, and restructuring thc apyeirdn..ent criteria for new members. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 28 pertaining to the Sister City Committee. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 28. FIRST READING ORDINANCF Amending the Corpus Christi Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Administration - Division 13, Sister City Committee, Section 2-154, Officers, by changing the method of electing officers; Section 2-155, Minutes, Etc., by standardizing the time frame for distribution of minutes; and Section 2-156, Funds, by correcting the department's name. 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 recessed the regular Council meeting to conduct the annual meetings of the quasi -city corporations: Corpus Christi Housing Finance Corporation, Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation, Corpus Christi Industrial Development Corporation, and Corpus Christi Health Facilities Development Corporation. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal said the closed session, regarding Isaac Valencia, et al v. City of Corpus Christi, Cause No. 97-6099-C, 94'h District Court, Nueces County, Texas, was canceled. He then called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Garcia noted that one of the items scheduled for the August 25th Council meeting is the first reading ordinance on the lease with the Buccaneer Commission. He said he would be meeting with Park staff to review the Council policy concerning charges for special events. He said items scheduled for the September 8th Council meeting include the quarterly presentation by the Crime Control and Prevention District Board and a presentation on the Latchkey Program. Mr. Garcia added that the Council members will be invited to a press conference on August 24th in the Council Chambers regarding new initiatives for the Americans with Disabilities Act, specifically enforcement initiatives for people who park illegally in handicapped parking spaces. Minutes Regular Council Meeting August 18, 1998 Page 24 Mayor Neal asked City Attorney Bray to prepare a memo regarding the emergency ordinance issue that was raised. He then called for Council concerns and reports. Council Member Colmenero expressed concern about an Alliance tourism contract regarding Hispanic telemarketing and he asked for a report. Council Member John Longoria said he had met with the City Manager regarding the city's legislative agenda and he had suggested that a package of legislative issues be prepared for the three lobbyists who were recently hired for the city. City Manager Garcia said he had discussed that issue with Mr. Bray and he intends to present the Council with a specific legislative program that will serve as the city's "game plan" in Austin. He said the Texas Municipal League (TML) is holding a legislative conference to help cities prepare for the legislative session next year. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria announced that Corpus Christi is hosting a regional TML meeting on August 20`h at the Museum of Science and History. Council Member Garcia asked staff to look into the area on Everhart that was addressed by Ms. Noyes earlier in the meeting. He also asked for an update on the resolutions to Nueces County. Mayor Neal replied that he had removed those items from the Commissioners Court agenda. Mr. Garcia also asked about the county judge's proposal to use funds from the tobacco settlement for possible consolidation of health services. City Manager Garcia said he had met with Judge Borchard regarding that issue and he will provide the Council with a report. Council Member Garcia also commented on the need for a "safety net" to ensure that the funds the city provides to different organizations are used for the intended purposes. The City Manager replied that that was one of the reasons why the contract with the Alliance included a series of performance standards against which they can measure the success of the contract. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal declared the Council meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m. on August 18, 1998. * * * * * * * * * * * * *