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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/13/1999I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of the City of Corpus Christi of July 13, 1999, which were approved by the City Council on July 20, 1999. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 20th day of July, 1999. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 12:00 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Henry Garrett Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero Melody Cooper* Dr. Arnold Gonzales Rex A. Kinnison Betty Jean Longoria John Longoria* Mark Scott 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 Council Member Colmenero, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States was led by Council Member Kinnison. City Secretary Chapa called the roll and verified that the necessary quorum of the Council and the required charter officers were present to conduct the meeting. Mayor Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of June 29, 1999. Mr. Colmenero asked that the minutes state that he was absent during the June 29th meeting due to a death in the family. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as amended. *Council Member Cooper arrived at 12:05 p.m. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal announced that the closed session regarding legal issues associated with the 1986 bond program had been canceled. The Mayor then referred to the board and committee appointments on the day's agenda, and the following appointments were made: (*Council Member John Longoria arrived at 12:10 p.m.) Cable Communications Commission Norma Torres (Reappointed) Charles Spencer Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance Ralph Coker Planning Commission L. Brooke Sween -McGloin (Reappointed) David Berlanga Shirley Mims Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 2 Human Relations Commission Lena Coleman (Reappointed) Sylvester Peterson (Reappointed) Daniel Carmona (Reappointed) Kelly Garza (Reappointed) Blaire Pittman (Reappointed) Joann Kernick Rabbi Paul Joseph (Advisory) ** * Landmark Commission Terry Orf Jerry Wagoner Mark Luddeke Michael Cleary Louis Alvarado * * * Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. Dr. Byron Coward, 433 Pasadena, said he owns acreage at the corner of Airline and Wooldridge. He noted that the 1986 bond program included a project to improve Airline Road from Holly Road to Saratoga Boulevard, which has not yet been completed. He said that in 1989, 1990, and 1995 a total of over $1 million was diverted from the 1986 bond funds to the McKinzie Road project. He asked that the Council make every effort to start the Airline project at the earliest possible date and he requested a letter from city staff recording the schedule on the project. Mayor Neal noted that Item 27 on the day's agenda includes a report on the status of the 1986 bond program. City Manager Garcia said staff will provide the information Dr. Coward had requested. Mayor Neal said the City Manager informed him that he was withdrawing Item 33 from the day's agenda regarding the L -Head bait stand lease. Council Member Gonzales requested an update on that project. Mr. Garcia replied that they had proposed an amendment to the lease but they were unable to come to terms over rental payments. He said the bait stand will be temporarily relocated and during that time staff proposed that the rent be $750 per month (50% of what it would normally be). Ms. Jane Stubbs has requested that the rent be $25.00 per month. Ms. Selene Pellat, 9425 Wilkins, said that up until four years ago, the Corpus Christi Housing Authority was exemplary and consistently received awards. She said when Mr. Victor De La Cruz became the Executive Director of the Housing Authority, there were several staff changes and charges of discrimination were filed with the Human Relations Commission. She said many complaints were made to the Housing Authority Board, which she said did nothing, and she encouraged the board members to resign their positions. Ms. Pellat said she was a former resident and employee and commented that she is glad that Mr. De La Cruz resigned from the Housing Authority. Mayor Neal replied that there have been many changes at the Housing Authority, and he noted that most of the board members have only served for about one year. He said he met with the board members yesterday about the direction the Housing Authority will take. The Mayor added that they will appoint another good person to the Housing Authority board. Responding to a question Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 3 from Dr. Gonzales, City Attorney Bray said the Mayor makes the appointments to the Housing Authority board and he can remove the members only for cause. He said the Housing Authority board is an independent governmental entity and they have a legal duty under the statute to manage the Authority. Dr. Gonzales asked how charges of discrimination against the Housing Authority are handled. Mr. Bray replied that the city has a contract with the EEOC to investigate and screen discrimination complaints. He said if the city is not successful in resolving the complaints, there is potential litigation. Mr. Raymond Gregg, 2713-A St. Joseph St., said he was interested in the completion of McArdle Road, which was part of the 1986 bond program. He said he is also interested in the Crosstown interchange, which would help divert traffic from South Padre Island Drive. Mayor Neal said the Crosstown interchange is on the planning board for commencement by the Texas Department of Transportation either the latter part of 1999 or early 2000. He said it is scheduled to take about 21 years to complete. Ms. Julie Quick said she lives on a sailboat in Key Allegro and she was present to show support for Ms. Jane Stubbs, with whom she works. She said regular customers at the L -Head bait stand continue to remark about city government credibility in relation to the bait stand lease issue. Ms. Quick also commented that the way in which city staff dealt with "live aboards" in the Corpus Christi marina could have been handled more professionally and compassionately Mayor Neal asked if Ms. Quick had signed a marina slip lease when she was a live aboard at the marina. Ms. Quick replied that she had a caretaker status. Mr. Rob Fredrickson said he resides on a sailboat with his wife, Julie. He said he also works at the bait stand and no progress has been made in 18 months to build a new bait stand. He also expressed his support for Ms. Stubbs. He said he hopes a bait stand will be built that the community will be proud of and people can work safely in. Mr. Fredrickson said 30 days was very short notice for the live aboards. Mr. Tracy Wright, 4928 Southern, said he has worked for Ms. Stubbs for quite a while. He said the proposed temporary bait stand facility will be very small and hot during the summer. He said the new bait stand should be built as soon as possible. Mr. Phil Rosenstein addressed the issue of uninsured motorists. He said he spoke to Police Chief Alvarez, who said it was up to the discretion of the police officer whether to let an uninsured motorist drive away or to have the car impounded. Mr. Rosenstein said the law requires automobile drivers to carry insurance and if they do not, they should not be allowed to drive. Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said he was told that the Southside Senior Center project is still over budget. He said it appears that project is on the same track as the L -Head bait stand. Mr. Hasker said he has also observed people parked outside the gates at the Naval Air Station because they do not carry insurance on their car. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 4 Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, said if the city's contracts with the lobbyists were eliminated (including the Washington, D.C., lobbyists), it would free up about $160,000. Responding to a question from Mr. O'Brien, Mayor Neal said there would be separate public hearings that day for the operating budget and the capital budget. With regard to the bait stand issue, Mr. O'Brien said it seems that the city should be working very hard to resolve it since it cannot be that complicated. Ms. Jane Stubbs, 742 Kings Point Harbor, said she signed a contract in December 1997 for a new bait stand and since then city staff has wanted to change everything. She said she has made several concessions in an effort to get the project moving, including paying $40,000 of her own money, moving her boats, and agreeing to move into a temporary facility. She said for 11 years she has never been late paying the rent for the bait stand. Ms. Stubbs said when the building was not built, city staff agreed to waive her rent until the new store was built because of numerous losses Ms. Stubbs experienced that the marina staff had witnessed. Council Member Colmenero said the bait stand issue has gotten far out of hand. He said he would like to ask staff to come back to the Council next week with a way to resolve this issue. Dr. Gonzales said he has visited the current bait stand, which he said is an embarrassment to the whole city. He said they must ensure that the city provides a facility where they can do business without endangering their lives. Council Member Garrett said he thought Ms. Stubbs should be able to start operating her business by this Friday, and if the city made a mistake, it should accept the consequences. Mr. Garcia replied that the easiest way to resolve the bait stand issue is to go back and comply with the original lease to which Ms. Stubbs and the city both agreed and build the bait stand as originally intended, for which the funding is available. He explained that Ms. Stubbs had requested a larger building and they were trying to determine ways to amend the lease to do that. Ms. Stubbs responded that the original lease states that the bait stand would be no smaller than 1,500 square feet; however, the facility that she and other city staff designed was 2,301 square feet. She said if they go back to the original contract, the project will have to be rebid. Mr. Garcia reiterated that the city has the $150,000 needed to build the facility specified in the original contract. He said they have been negotiating an amendment --at Ms. Stubbs' request --that would substantially increase the size of the bait stand. He said she has agreed to pay for that and there is a method to incorporate that payment into the lease, but they cannot come to a final agreement. Ms. Stubbs said she was never the one who wanted to change her lease, and she questioned where the plans are that are ready to be bid out for a 1,500 square foot building. Mayor Neal said the Council wants to bring this issue to a conclusion, and the parties can discuss it privately that day while the Council is in session, but he does not intend to debate it in open session. Mr. Garcia said it is highly unusual for real estate matters of this nature to be debated in this forum, which is part of the reason such issues are ordinarily dealt with in closed session. He said had it not been for specific requests on the part of three Council members, he would not have Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 5 engaged in that discussion. The City Manager added that this is a complex issue which has legal implications and neither party is completely free of liability, which warrants the advice of counsel. Ms. Stubbs said she has no intentions of suing the city. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria said she is concerned about Ms. Stubbs' needs but she is also concerned about issues raised by Risk Management. Mayor Neal reiterated that he is interested in reaching a conclusion that is satisfactory to everyone in a manner they can live with. Mr. Richard Cavada, 1606 Craig St., said he applauds Council Member Scott's vote for the people living at the marina. He added that tough decisions need to be made promptly, which is what the Council is elected to do. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for consideration of consent motions, resolutions, ordinances and ordinances from previous meetings on Items 3-24. Council members requested that Items 9, 12, 15, and 22 be withheld for discussion. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed: 3. M99-216 Motion approving supply agreements with the following companies for the following amounts in accordance with Coastal Bend Council of Governments Bid Invitation No. CBCOG-99-5 for paper goods for an estimated twelve month expenditure of $35,251.00 based on the recommended award submitted by the Coastal Bend Council of Governments. The terms of the contracts shall be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to twelve additional months, subject to the approval of the Coastal Bend Council of Governments, the suppliers, and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by Senior Community Services in FY 98-99 and requested for FY99-00. Gulf Coast Paper Co., Inc. Corpus Christi TX $33,034.43 Grand Total - $35,251.00 Labatt Food Service Corpus Christi. TX $2,216.57 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 4. M99-217 Motion approving supply agreement with the following companies for the following amounts in accordance with Coastal Bend Council of Governments Bid Invitation No. CBCOG-99-4 for food items which include canned and frozen fruit and vegetables, meats and condiments Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 6 for an estimated six month expenditure of $80,848.87 based on the recommended award submitted by the Coastal Bend Council of Governments. The term of the contracts shall be for six months with an option to extend for up to three additional months, subject to the approval of the Coastal Bend Council of Governments, the suppliers, and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by Senior Community Services in FY 98-99 and requested for FY99-00. Sysco Food Service San Antonio. TX 107 Items $28,533.79 Labatt Food Service Corpus Christi. TX 133 Items $30,240.38 U. S. Foods Corpus Christi. TX 39 Items $12,302.71 Lance, Inc. Charlotte. NC I Item $315.90 Grand Total - $80,848.87 Sam Hausman Meat Packer, Inc. Corpus Christi. TX 2 Items $9,456.09 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 5. M99-218 Motion approving a supply agreement with Borden Milk Products, LLC, Austin, Texas in accordance with Coastal Bend Council of Governments Bid Invitation No. CBCOG-99-7, for 118,537 half-pint containers of milk consisting of homogenized milk, buttermilk, low fat milk, low fat chocolate milk and skim milk, based on the recommended award submitted by the Coastal Bend Council of Governments for an estimated six month expenditure of $19,877.01. The term of the agreement shall be for six months with an option to extend for up to three additional months, subject to the approval of the Coastal Bend Council of Governments, the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by Senior Community Services in FY 98-99 and requested for FY99-00. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 6. M99-219 Motion approving a supply agreement for black and galvanized pipe fittings in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0124-99 from Alamo Iron Works, San Antonio, TX based on the total low bid meeting specifications for the amount of $26,556.01. The award consists of 219 line items of various types of fittings for pipe ranging from %" to 12". The fittings will be stocked and distributed by the Warehouse to the Gas Department and Water Department. The Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 7 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 vendor and the City Manager or his designee. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 7. M99-220 Motion approving a supply agreement with DPC Industries, Inc., Corpus Christi, TX, for approximately 1,150,600 pounds of Sodium Hypochlorite Solution for the five Wastewater Treatment Plants in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0135-99 based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $341,958.32. 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 have been budgeted in FY 98-99 and are requested for FY 99-00 by the Wastewater Department. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 8. M99-221 Motion approving a supply agreement with Van Waters & Rogers Inc. Corpus Christi, TX, for approximately 459,900 pounds of Sodium Bisulfite Solution for four Wastewater Treatment Plants in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0132-99 based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $50,589. 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 have been budgeted in FY 98-99 and are requested for FY 99-00 by the Wastewater Department. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 10. M99-223 Motion approving the purchase of a fire station alerting system in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0142-99 from Zetron Inc., Redmond, WA, on the basis of only bid of $28,279. Funds are budgeted in the FY 1998-99 budget by the Fire Department. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 8 11. M99-224 Motion approving the purchase of eight computers, five monitors and three network interface cards from Microtek Sales, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas, for the South Texas Library System (STLS), in accordance with the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program for a total of $16,553. Funds are available through the STLS-LSA grant. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 13. M99-226 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Tiburon Inc. in the amount of $41,171 for maintenance and software support services on the Police Department's records management and computer-aided dispatching system. The term of the contract is for one year. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 14.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023685 Ordinance appropriating $33,968 from the Unreserved Fund Balance designated for the Municipal Court Computer System; amending Ordinance No. 023387, which adopted the FY 98-99 Operating Budget, by adding $33,968 to the No. 1020 General Fund for the purchase of technical services including computer programming to establish an interface between the Police RMS System and the Municipal Court Management System. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 14.b. M99227 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Tiburon Inc. up to the amount of $33,968.00 for technical services which will include the necessary programming to establish an interface between the Police RMS system and the Municipal Court Management System. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 9 16. M99-229 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract in the amount of $144,700 with R.S. Black Civil Engineers & Contractors/Materials and Machinery, a joint venture, of Corpus Christi, TX, for the Holly Road Pumping Plant suction header rehabilitation project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 17. M99-230 Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute a construction contract in the amount of $129,145 with Haeber Roofing of Corpus Christi, Texas for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant chemical building roof replacement. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 18. M99-231 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract in the amount of $92,556 with D&R Sales for the O. N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant parts storage facility. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 19. M99-232 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract in the amount of $19,600 with R.S. Black Civil Engineers & Contractors/Materials and Machinery, a joint venture of Corpus Christi, Texas for the Savage Lane Pumping Plant - additional pumping unit. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 20. M99-233 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with H&G Contractors in the amount of $196,545.55 for the wastewater pipe yard construction. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 10 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 21. M99-234 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with D&R Sales in the amount of $140,740 for the wastewater metal warehouse building. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 23.a. M99-235 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept $3,000 of FY97 Home Investment Partnership Program funds administered through the Corpus Christi Community Improvement Corporation. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 23.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023687 Ordinance appropriating $3,000 of FY97 Home Investment Partnership Program funds in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for homebuyer assistance activities approved by the City Council on May 13, 1997. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 24.a. M99-236 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a renewal grant in the amount of $193,006 and execute a contract with the Corporation for National and Community Service for the Senior Companion Program. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 24.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023688 Ordinance appropriating $193,006 from the Corporation for National and Community Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 11 Service in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for the Senior Companion Program. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 9, supply agreement for wrecker service. He asked City Attorney Bray about the status of reviewing possible amendments to the wrecker service ordinance. Mr. Bray replied that one of the city's attorneys is reviewing it with the Police Department and they are preparing a report for the Council. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 9. M99-222 Motion approving a supply agreement with E&J Truck & RV Service, Corpus Christi, TX, for wrecker service for City owned vehicles - Group I, in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0111-99 based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $44,239. The term of the contract 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 Maintenance Services and the Fire Department in FY 98-99 and requested for FY 99-00. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 12, occupational medical services contract. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Pat Alba, Director of Risk Management, said the city would only pay for the number of employees it sends to the contractor for pre-employment physicals. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 12. M99-225 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Concentra Managed Care Inc. at an estimated annual cost of $96,285 for occupational medical services. The term of the contract is for one year with three additional one-year options. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Gonzales absent. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 12 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 15, Naples Street collection line upgrade. Council Member Colmenero asked about the duration of the cured -in-place pipe method. Mr. Angel Escobar, Acting Director of Engineering Services, said they estimate that it will last over 50 years following the repairs. He said that method has been used for about 20 years and it is well - proven. He added that they will be conducting complete asphalt repair of the affected streets. Mayor Neal said a citizen expressed concern about inaccessibility of those streets during rain periods. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 15. M99-228 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with King Isles Construction Company in the amount of $939,490 for the Naples Street collection line upgrade project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 22, approval of resale bids on foreclosed properties. In reply to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Tom Utter, Assistant City Manager for Development Services, said if the city has a paving lien or care -of -premises lien on a property, the city receives a proportion of that back when the property is sold. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 22. RESOLUTION NO. 023686 Resolution authorizing resale of four properties shown on the attached and incorporated Exhibit A which were foreclosed upon for failure to pay ad valorem taxes and miscellaneous liens, for minimum opening bid amounts equal to prices listed on the attached Exhibit A. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Gonzales and Kinnison absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal noted that since it was not yet 2:00 p.m., the Council could not begin the discussions on the public hearings (which had been advertised to begin at 2:00 p.m.). Consequently, Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 13 he opened discussion on Item 35 on the regular agenda, interlocal agreement with the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) for street improvements. City Manager Garcia explained that the city had a contract with the RTA which, prior to this year, split the contribution between funding the city's ambulance service and street improvements. He said the RTA has indicated a strong desire to not fund the ambulance service but to have all of their funds go toward street improvements. He said the city entered into discussions with the RTA to increase their contribution because of the amount of damage the buses cause to the streets and the resulting maintenance requirements. Mr. Ogilvie Gericke, Acting Assistant City Manager for Public Works and Utilities, said that for 1999 the amount being funded for general purpose street improvements will be $936,000. He said it will include regular street maintenance projects, such as seal coating, overlay, and reconstruction; an additional $500,000 will be included for special projects. He said the RTA is suggesting that the special projects for 1999 include 22 new concrete bus tumouts on Leopard Street between Rehfield and McKinzie roads and the repair and improvement of existing pull-outs, curb and gutter, sidewalks, and ADA ramps at 10 locations. In addition, the RTA agreed to include the improvement of the Port/Ayers intersection, pavement overlay on Ayers Street, and signal improvement (monies will come out of the LCI grant). Mr. Gericke added that staff is recommending the $500,000 be set aside in a special Street Capital Projects Fund to ensure that it is not co -mingled with the city's operating expenses. Responding to Council Member John Longoria, Mr. Gericke said the $500,000 is restricted to specific projects. Mr. Garcia said the city has not yet received the $936,000 principally because the agreement with the RTA expired last year. At this time they are negotiating for the increased amount of $500,000. Mr. Gericke added that the amount contributed by the RTA through the annual agreement will depend on their sales tax receipts. He said the projects that will be paid for with the $936,000 were selected from a list provided by the city and agreed to by the RTA. A discussion ensued regarding the special projects earmarked for the $500,000 as well as a comparison of Corpus Christi's RTA contribution to those made by regional transportation authorities in other Texas cities. There was also discussion regarding the possibility of the Corpus Christi RTA directly contracting for the street projects. Mayor Neal requested an updated memo regarding the streets that have been damaged by bus traffic. He then called for public comments. Mr. R.F. Hasker said more emphasis and money needs to be focused on the condition of the bus stops. Mr. Abel Alonzo said he uses public transportation and he is concerned about the negative public perception of the RTA. He said he attends most of their board meetings and he feels they are running the agency very efficiently. He added that the authority must act independently. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 14 Mayor Neal referred to the previous discussion regarding the RTA directly contracting the work. He asked Mr. Longoria if he thought Section 2 ("Special Projects") of the agreement regarding 1999 street projects should be amended to include a provision which would allow the RTA to directly contract for the projects. Mr. Longoria replied that that provision is written in the other agreement. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 35.a. RESOLUTION NO. 023693 Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an interlocal governmental agreement with the Regional Transportation Authority for the Regional Transportation Authority to provide the City money annually for street improvements purposes. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 35.b. ORDINANCE NO. 023694 Ordinance appropriating $500,000 from the Regional Transportation Authority in the No. 3530 Street Capital Projects Fund for the Special Projects 1999 street improvement program; amending Ordinance No. 023474 which adopted the FY 98-99 Capital Budget, by adding $500,000 to the No. 3530 Street Capital Projects Fund. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal presented honorary citizenship certificates to French exchange students Armel Jacquet and Jean Baptiste Peloux. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria recognized Mr. Chuck Cazalas of CITGO and Mr. Rich Tuttle of Koch for the participation of those companies in the northside youth basketball program. The Mayor then called for a brief recess. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal reconvened the Council meeting and opened the public hearing on the following zoning case: Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 15 25. Case No. 699-1 Jackson S. Ryan, Jr.: A change of zoning from a "B-4" General Business District and "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to an "A-2" Apartment House District on Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, Section 11, being 5.79 acres out of Lot 1, located on the east side of South Staples Street, approximately 750 feet south of Saratoga Boulevard. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "A-2" Apartment House District. Mayor Neal called for public comment. Mr. John Torrey, President of the Barclay Grove Neighborhood League, said the organization approved a petition to be drafted in opposition to this zoning case. He said the proposed apartment complex on the subject property poses a serious negative potential impact on several infrastructure elements, including traffic, utilities, schools, and public services. He added that apartment occupancy is down and the apartments will provide no benefits to families. Mr. John Newman, President of Country Club Homeowners Association, said there has been an increase in traffic through the Country Club subdivision between Everhart and Staples over the last few years. He said the proposed apartment complex will cause additional increases in traffic, and he added that growth should be controlled. Mr. Rocky Ryan, the applicant, said the location is ideal for multi -family uses and the surrounding zoning is consistent with that, adding that it is not a viable location for single-family housing. He said the apartment market is quickly recovering and there is a need for them. He noted that the apartment complex will be a gated community with individual, monitored security systems in each unit and he added that it will be an adult housing community. Council Member Colmenero made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Cooper, and passed. Mr. Michael Gunning, Acting Director of Planning, then showed a computer presentation of the subject property and surrounding uses. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 023689 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Jackson S. Ryan, Jr., by changing the zoning map in reference to being 5.79 acres out of Lot 1, Section 11, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts from "R -1B' One -family Dwelling District and "B-4" General Business District to "A-2" Apartment House District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 16 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 26, a public hearing regarding Annaville Area street improvements -Margie Drive. There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Cooper made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Scott, and passed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 26.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023690 Ordinance closing the public hearing on proposed assessments for improvements to the following highways in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas: Annaville Area Streets No. 3, Phase II, Margie Drive between Leopard Street and Martine Drive; imposing assessments totaling $25,026.54 against property abutting the improvements, affected railways, and property and railways owners; fixing corresponding liens on property and charges against property owners; providing for subsequent adjustment of assessment amounts and the corresponding liens and charges based on as -built conditions; specifying assessment payment terms and lien enforcement measures. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 26.b. M99-237 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract in the amount of $178,627.50 with Asphalt Paving and Construction of Corpus Christi, Texas for the Armaville Area Street Improvements No. 3, Phase 2 (Margie Drive) project. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on the first part of Item 27, a public hearing on the FY 99-00 operating budget. City Manager Garcia gave a brief computer presentation reviewing adjustments that have been made to the summaries of revenues and expenditures. He noted that the Council's priorities in funding public safety, recreation, and streets programs are being followed in the allocation of funds. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 17 Mr. Paul Koepke, President of Beautify Corpus Christi Association (BCCA), said they suggest the Council consider the Park and Recreation, Streets, and Solid Waste departments as necessary items in keeping the city clean. He said BCCA is providing input to the proposed amendments to the property maintenance and solid waste ordinances to be discussed next week. He emphasized the importance of the city having the funds to enforce the ordinances. Ms. Inez Adams, 523 Airline, said she is a past chairperson and current advisory member of the Library Board, as well as a member of the La Retama Club, which started the library about 90 years ago. She said the city's libraries continue to grow and this is not the time to cut back on the libraries' services, books, and materials budgets. Ms. Gloria Rodriguez, 4417 Hamlin, President of the Library Board, said city staff operates a very efficient library and they would like to see that continue. She noted that technology has changed many aspects of library services, and she said the board would like the Council to restore $115,000 to the materials budget to maintain 1998 funding levels. Ms. Paige Dinn, 214 Ohio, asked that the Council maintain the libraries' materials budget and the youth programs in the Park and Recreation budget. She discussed the importance of those line items to the community's youth. Mr. J.E. O'Brien suggested that in order to fill some of the budget requests made by the previous speakers, the Council should eliminate the lobbyists' costs. With regard to Solid Waste, he said it appears that for several years, revenues have exceeded expenditures by about $6 million a year. He said when solid waste rates were raised in 1995, the intention was to put money aside to fund the new landfill, but he cannot find that information in the financial statements. Mr. O'Brien also expressed concern about excess charges to the Utility Fund, and he questioned the adoption of the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance's budget. He urged the Council to decrease unnecessary spending and increase the basic services' budget where possible. At the request of Council Member Kinnison, Mr. Garcia explained the source of the $400,000 for the Special Projects Debt Service Fund (which was discussed in detail last week). Mr. Kinnison also requested a future update on the landfill plan, particularly the financing aspect. Mr. Jose Marroquin referred to photos he had provided to the Council showing damaged streets in his neighborhood. He also asked what to do about people who speed through that area, and he said the contractor of the Mary Rhodes Pipeline should be held liable for the water that has not flowed through the pipeline. Mayor Neal replied that the city has not lost the money that was paid as part of the contract for Lake Texana water. He added that Mr. David Seiler, Traffic Engineer, can work with Mr. Marroquin regarding installing traffic -slowing devices in his neighborhood. Ms. Laurie Cook, Chairperson of the Greater Corpus Christi Business Alliance, said the Alliance submitted their FY 99-00 budget at the end of May. She noted that in June, the Alliance provided the Council with a detailed presentation about their future plans, which includes a targeted Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 18 marketing plan for the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) and the Economic Development Department. She said those efforts can in turn increase the city's tax base and revenues to the General Fund. Mr. Ralph Ehrlich, General Manager of Ramada Inn Bayfront (one of the city's convention hotels), asked that the Council provide the full amount of the CVB's budget request. He said the competition for conventions is very stiff and the recently approved increase in the hotel/motel tax will begin to help the city move forward. Mr. Jim Snow, General Manager of the Omni Hotel, said he represents 550 associates and the hotel pays $750,000 in property taxes. He said that as a convention hotel, they are concerned about the lack of funding for the CVB. Mr. Snow reviewed the expenses of several CVB-funded programs, and he encouraged the Council to approve the Business Alliance's funding. Ms. Barbara Balmer, General Manager of the Red Roof Inn on SPID and President of the Hotel/Motel/Condominium Association, said they are concerned about taking hotel/motel tax dollars and distributing them among non-profitable returns, She said in the past the hotel/motel tax has been viewed as a "cash well" to dip into, but something needs to be done to ensure a return on those monies. She said every part of the city is affected by tourism revenues. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing on the operating budget, seconded by Council Member Colmenero, and passed. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Items 28.a. and 28.b., first reading ordinances for the FY 99-00 operating and capital budgets. Council Member Kinnison presented a motion to utilize the $750,000 in supplemental funds. He said in preparing his proposal, he tried to incorporate the issues that Council members had expressed interest in as well as the need to provide basic services. Mr. Kinnison then reviewed the elements of his proposal for the use of additional funding: brush truck for Fire Department, $12,228 (lease); additional street funding, $175,000; Health Department, $64,056; Census 2000 project, $20,002; Solid Waste automated pilot project, $90,000; election costs, $100,000; Library book budget, $50,000; Parkdale Library 40 -ton condensing unit, $20,000; Library telephone system, $35,000; Mayor's Office, $2,500; two EMS replacement ambulances, $31,128 (lease); Business Alliance -economic development, $127,500; middle school recreation program, $30,650; street residential traffic management, $42,645; and Police transport officers, $47,430. Mr. Kinnison said that with regard to the proposed funding of $127,500 for economic development by the Alliance, he said $27,500 would be to restore the amount cut from the original budget; the remaining contribution of $100,000 would be in the form of a challenge grant. He said Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 19 in the Alliance's presentation about their economic development program, they indicated their goal of raising $500,000 from private sources. He said the city's contribution would be a 1-5 match (up to $100,000) to fully fund their program. Mr. Kinnison added that while his proposal totals $848,139 (more than the $750,000 available), there is an agenda item reflecting a change in the retirement factor for employees and additional monies are available. He added that his proposal complies with the Council's financial policies. Council Member Scott seconded Mr. Kinnison's motion. Council Member John Longoria made a motion to amend Mr. Kinnison's motion by removing the conditions placed on the economic development funding for the Alliance; Council Member Gonzales seconded Mr. Longoria's motion to amend. Mr. Kinnison said he did not accept Mr. Longoria's amendment and he would like a vote to be taken on it. Council members commented on whether to remove the conditions on the Alliance's economic development funding in the amount of $127,500. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Mr. Longoria's motion to amend. It passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Neal, Kinnison, and Scott voting "No." Mrs. Longoria made a motion to table until later in the meeting Mr. Kinnison's motion to allocate the additional funding; seconded by Dr. Gonzales and passed. Mayor Neal then called for Council comments on the operating budget, including the supplemental budget requests. Mrs. Longoria asked about the impact of deleting the Planner II position in the Planning Department, which Mr. Gunning explained. She also asked how the proposed imaging system in the City Secretary's Office would benefit city employees and the public, which Mr. Chapa explained. Mrs. Longoria also commented on demolition funds through the Housing and Community Development Department. Dr. Gonzales expressed concern about proposed budget cuts that would affect the following programs: Ben Garza neighborhood basketball program; compliance audits for hotel/motel tax; and Latchkey staff Dr Gonzales said he also wanted the Council to review the city's travel budgets and the budget of the Communications and Quality Management Department. Dr. Gonzales also discussed the city's lobbyists in Austin. He said that as a former legislator, he is aware of the legislators' activities in the interim between the legislative sessions. He said he will support reconsidering the lobbyists for next year based on the issues that will come up. He then made a motion to eliminate funding for the three Austin lobbyists during the interim; seconded by Mrs. Longoria. The Council members then commented on the issue of the Austin lobbyists. Following the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 20 discussion, Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Dr. Gonzales' motion, which failed to pass by the following vote: Gonzales voting "Aye"; Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "No." With regard to Dr. Gonzales' question about travel expenses, Mr. Garcia said he did make reductions in the city's travel budgets but he needs direction from the Council if they wished to make additonal specific reductions. He said he can provide the Council with more detailed information on the issue. Mr. Colmenero said he would consider staying within a boundary of 15% to 20%. Mayor Neal asked if that includes all city travel, and Mr. Colmenero agreed. Dr. Gonzales said he thought they were addressing staff travel. Mr. Garrett then asked about the proposed elimination of the Park Planning division, which Mr. Tony Cisneros, Director of Park and Recreation, explained. Mr. Kinnison recommended that the item in the supplemental budget for the establishment of the city marshals program be included in the budget on a revenue -neutral basis. Ms. Barb Sudhoff, Director of Municipal Courts, explained several aspects of the city marshals program. Mr. Garcia said if the Council approves, staff will include the marshals program in the budget as Mr. Kinnison had suggested. Responding to Mrs. Longoria, Fire Chief J.J. Adame explained why the department's first priority for supplemental funding would be for a hazardous materials truck. Mrs. Longoria also asked Mr. Herb Canales, Director of Libraries, about the central library's need for a Y2K compliant telephone system and a condensing unit at Parkdale Library. Dr. Nina Sisley, Director of Public Health, discussed the need for a new roof at the Health Department and for chemicals for Vector Control. Mr. Garrett asked about plans for the public safety communication consolidation, which Mr. Garcia and Capt. Leonard Scott discussed. In reply to Mayor Neal, Police Chief Alvarez said the Police Department cannot absorb the $54,466 needed for the first year of the community oriented policing program (COP), which they were requesting from the General Fund. There was also a discussion about overtime costs in the Police Department, and Chief Alvarez responded to Mr. Longoria's questions about the COP program expenses. Mr. Chapa responded to Mayor Neal's questions concerning election expenses. Dr. Gonzales questioned Mr. Garcia about vacancies in city departments, which the City Manager and Mr. Rudy Garza, Assistant Director of Management and Budget, explained. Mayor Neal said he would like to support Mr. Garrett's suggestion that the Police Department look carefully at funding the first year of the COP program out of the drug fund money. Mr. Garcia replied that staff has direction from the Council to implement the COP program, and they will identify the resources they need to do so. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 21 In his proposal to fund several supplemental budget items, Mr Kinnison agreed to substitute the leased hazmat truck ($29,000) for the brush truck, which increased the total amount needed by $17,000. Mrs. Longoria said she would like to find a way to fund the following items: document imaging system for the City Secretary's Office, $70,000; demolition/mowing, $50,000; and Park Planning Superintendent, $40,000. Dr. Gonzales made a motion to place Mr. Kinnison's proposal back on the table for discussion, seconded by Ms. Cooper, and passed. Mayor Neal suggested that the funding for the Solid Waste automated pilot project be reduced from $90,000 to $80,000, and the Library book budget from $50,000 to $43,000 in order to accommodate the extra funding for the hazmat truck. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Mr. Kinnison's motion and it passed unanimously. Mr. Longoria said the Alliance had requested $295,000 from the Visitors Facility Fund, and he made a motion to instead contribute $155,000 from the following sources: $100,000 from Convention Center operations; $30,000 from cultural facility maintenance; and $25,000 from the Visitors Facility Fund balance. Mr. Scott seconded Mr. Longoria's motion. A discussion ensued, and Mr. Hal Peterson, Director of Convention Facilities, responded to Council members' questions regarding operating expenses at the convention center, coliseum, Heritage Park, and the Water Garden. Mr. Cisneros also discussed the scope of work included in cultural facilities maintenance. Mr. Longoria made a motion to provide $155,000 to the Alliance as he had previously stated, seconded by Mr. Colmenero. Dr. Gonzales made a motion to amend Mr. Longoria's motion (thereby amending the first reading ordinance) to direct the City Manager to find the funds to provide full funding to the Alliance in the amount of $295,000; seconded by Mrs. Longoria. Following discussion by the Council, Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on the amended motion. It passed by the following vote: Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Neal, Kinnison, and Scott voting "No." Mayor Neal called for public comment on the Visitor Facility Fund. Mr. J.E. O'Brien said he could not believe the Council was about to adopt a budget and they did not know what they were adopting. He suggested it would be more practical to wait until next week to have the first reading on the budget so they could know what they were voting on. There were no other comments from the public or the Council on the other funds. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Item 28.a. as follows: 28.a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Adopting the City of Corpus Christi Budget for the ensuing fiscal year beginning August 1, 1999, to be filed with the County Clerk; appropriating monies as provided in said budget. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 22 The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading, as amended, by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." Mayor Neal then opened the public hearing on the FY 99-00 capital budget. He called for comments from the audience. Mr. J.E. O'Brien referred to the revised copy of the capital improvement planning guide. He said it shows $16.4 million in the Solid Waste CIP for the new landfill to be paid for by certificates of obligation. Mr. O'Brien questioned whether that would abuse the certificate of obligation act. He said he thought the City Manager had said the landfill would be paid for with revenue bonds. If that is the case, Mr. O'Brien wondered if that would involve setting up a separate fund. Mr. Garcia replied that there would be a combination of certificates of obligation and revenue bonds. He said the source of payment for those bonds would be revenue from the Solid Waste Department, which Mr. Bray further explained. Mayor Neal and Mr. Kinnison further questioned the new landfill costs, which Mr. Garcia and Mr. Utter discussed. Mayor Neal called for Council comments on the various capital improvement projects grouped by major departments as they appeared in the CIP planning guide. Mr. Garcia and Mr. Peterson also answered Council members' questions about public facilities capital projects. With regard to street projects, Mayor Neal asked staff to provide at that time a summary report on the 1986 bond program. Utilizing a computer presentation, Mr. Garcia reviewed the status of the bond program, which had five major goals: to address the city's most immediate needs; improve existing facilities; enhance the quality of life; provide for growth; and respond to the Corpus Christi '90 target objectives. Mr. Garcia said the voters approved bonds totaling $104,945,000 for projects in the following categories: airport, $4,785,000; aquarium, $4,000,000; drainage, $5,560,000; public health and safety, $9,900,000; parks, $14,875,000; streets, $49,935,000; and wastewater, $15,890,000. He said the total available proceeds of the sale were $99,113,000. Mr. Garcia then summarized the activity in each of the project categories. In wastewater, all 13 projects proposed (totaling $15,890,000) have been completed at a cost of $13,383,848. In drainage, the 12 proposed drainage projects have been completed and, through the use of state funds and CIP funds, nine additional drainage projects were completed, at a total cost of $4,875,546. With regard to the aquarium, $4,000,000 was authorized and that project is closed out with a balance of $0.42. For public health and safety, bonds were authorized in the amount of $9,900,000. With interest earnings the total budget was $10,646,768 and the project cost totaled $10,424,752. All of those projects were completed with the exception of Fire Station No. 4, which is currently in progress and scheduled to open in a few months. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 23 Mr. Garcia said most of the 17 airport projects have been completed with the authorized funding. He said four of the projects have been substantially expanded through the use of passenger facility charges and FAA grants and it now involves a complete reconstruction of the existing airport. The authorized park and recreation project funds were $14,875,000 and the amount actually issued was $13,457,925. Project costs were $12,702,374 and there is a balance of $755,551 which are allocated to several projects. He noted that most of the park and recreation projects have been completed, and the Oso Creek project was divided into five separate phases. Responding to Mrs. Longoria and Mr. Colmenero, Mr. Cisneros and Mr. Garcia discussed the recommendation to reprogram funds for Castle River, Cenizo, Country Estates, and Tuloso parks to other projects, as well as the Oso fishing pier. In reply to Mr. Scott, Mr. Bray said bond counsel has reviewed the document being discussed and they determined that the handling of the various projects was within the parameters of the bond ordinance in a completely legally way. Mr. Garcia then referred to the street projects. He noted that $49,935,000 was authorized for several street projects and $42,100,061 has been spent. He said the balance of $4,744,906 has been allocated to several street projects and with the $4,000,000 that will be approved as part of the CIP, staff feels they can complete the full range of projects. In summary, Mr. Garcia said the total bonds issued were $97.5 million; with interest earnings of $15.3 million, the total available funding was $112.8 million. The city has spent $106.4 million for the completed projects and $6.3 million is allocated for the remaining 1986 projects. Mr. Garcia then reviewed several projects that were listed in the 1986 bond brochure as well as additional projects that have been completed. Mr. Garcia and Mr. Escobar also responded to Council questions. Mr. Garcia noted that the 1986 bond sale was based on several assumptions, including that there would be a 10% growth rate in appraised values per year. However, in 1986 the bottom dropped out of the market in Corpus Christi and it took 10 years for property values to return to 1986 levels. In addition, in 1986 the exemption for senior citizens was $18,000; shortly thereafter it was increased to $50,000. He noted that all of the bond funds were spent on allowable projects and, through leveraging of funds, substantially more improvements have been completed. There were no other comments from the audience or the Council on the rest of the capital improvement projects. Mrs. Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mr. Scott, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Item 28.b. as follows: 28.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Approving the FY 1999-00 Capital Budget in the amount of $149,213,700. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading as follows: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 24 Mayor Neal thanked city staff for their efforts in preparing information regarding the 1986 bond program projects. He said he hopes the community can now move forward with the understanding that the actions the Council is taking are going to allow them to finish the 1986 bond program based on the recommendations of the Legal, Engineering, and Budget departments as well as the city's bond counsel. Mayor Neal also asked Mr. Escobar and Mr. Cisneros to provide the Council with a schedule and quarterly update on the remaining street and park projects. *******ass*** Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 29, revising classification schedules. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 29. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Approval of ordinance amending Ordinance 3658, as amended, Subsections 251 through 257, revising classification schedules as reflected in Exhibit A. Approval of Ordinance amending Ordinance 8127, as amended, to reflect housekeeping revisions to the Managerial Group Pay Plan for FY 1999 -2000, with no changes to the salary ranges, attached as Exhibit B. Approval of Ordinance amending Ordinance 8127, as amended, Section 520, to reflect housekeeping revisions with no changes to the salary ranges to the Executive Pay Plan FY 1999 - 2000, attached as Exhibit C. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, subsections 501 and 508, to consolidate salary schedules A and B into one new salary schedule for classified positions (Grades 8 through 43), effective August 2, 1999, with no changes to the salary ranges. Amend Ordinance 3658, Subsections 103 and 151.2 to clarify probationary employees' civil service status. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, Subsection 550, to provide for suspension of exempt employees under FLSA without loss of exemption. Amend Ordinance 8127, Section 552, to incorporate salary advancement based upon performance. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, Section 551.4, to provide for pay advancement upon transfer to position with same pay grade, but different job class code. Amend Ordinance 8127, Section 551.7 to correct title by adding Executive Pay Plan. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, Subsections 951.12(a), 951.12(b), 952.5, and 952.13, to clarify payment of vacation and sick leave upon termination by employees eligible for retirement under Texas Municipal Retirement System. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, Subsections 951.1(a) and (b), 951.4(a), and (b), 951.9 (a) and (b), 952.1, 952.9, and 952.11 to biweekly instead of monthly as the basis for leave accrual and administration of other leave provisions. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, Section 900, to add Friday after Thanksgiving as "Floating Holiday." Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, by adding a new Subsection 713 to provide for certification pay for Aviation Public Safety Officers. Amend Ordinance 8127, as amended, to clarify language on Compensation upon initial employment in Section 551.1. Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 25 The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 30, amending the Civil Service Board rules. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 30. ORDINANCE NO. 023691 Ordinance amending the Civil Service Board Rules and Regulations, as amended, Article III, Section 3, Probationary Period, regarding positions with 12 -month probationary period and extensions up to 12 months; amending Article VI, Section 6, as amended, Reduction in Force, to set out criteria for selection of categories of positions citywide for deletion and selection of incumbents by seniority as defined in board rules and regulations; amending Article VII, Performance Ratings, to incorporate provisions of City Manager's Performance Evaluation Plan Policy; and providing for severance. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 31, updated service credits. There were no comments from the audience. The Mayor noted that the city does not have a 2 -to -1 match for employees, which he explained. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 31. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Authorizing and allowing, under the act governing the Texas Municipal Retirement System, "Updated Service Credits" in said system for service performed by qualifying members of such system who presently are in the employment of the City of Corpus Christi; providing for increased prior and current service annuities for retirees and beneficiaries of deceased retirees of the City; and establishing an effective date for such actions. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 32, utilities rates. He called for comments from the Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 26 audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 32. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 55, Utilities, regarding water, gas, and wastewater rates; providing for an effective date. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 33. WITHDRAWN O dinancc amending lease agrccmcnt with Patricia Jane Stubby for operation of L Ilcad bait staid. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 34, application to the State Infrastructure Bank. He called for comments from the audience, and there were none. Responding to Council Member Betty Jean Longoria, City Manager Garcia said if Nueces County does not provide their share of the funding for the JFK Causeway elevation project, the city will not take out the SIB loan. Mayor Neal said they would write a formal letter to the Commissioners Court and a few Council members said they would attend the Commissioners Court meeting the next day. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 34. RESOLUTION NO. 023692 Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute and submit an application to the State Infrastructure Bank for a loan in the amount of $4,000,000 to finance the City's share of the JFK Causeway Project, and further authorizing the City Manager to negotiate financial terms of the State Infrastructure Bank loan for submission to the City Council for final approval. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 36, upgrade of the city/RTA/county radio system. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 27 36.a. ORDINANCE NO. 023695 Ordinance appropriating $114,282.65 from the Radio System Capital Replacement Reserve in the No. 1020 General Fund for the purchase of Year 2000 compliance upgrade for the City/Nueces County/Regional Transportation Authority radio system; amending Ordinance No. 023387, which adopted the FY 98-99 Operating Budget, by adding $114,282.65 to the No. 1020 General Fund; subject to approval by the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and Nueces County (County). An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 36.b. M99-238 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a purchase contract with Ericsson Inc. in the amount of $114,282.65 for the Year 2000 compliance upgrade of the City/RTA/Nueces County radio system. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." ************* Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia reviewed the presentations that will be given at next week's meeting. He noted that one of the presentations regards privatization and reengineering. He said generally staff makes those presentations but he wondered whether the Council would allow outside presenters to address the Council. Following a brief discussion, there was consensus of the Council to allow representatives of United Water and U.S. Filter to address the Council for 10 minutes each. Mayor Neal commended City Secretary Chapa for obtaining the professional designation of acceptance as a fellow in the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. Mr. Chapa received the Academy for Advanced Education Certification in his field. Responding to a question from the Mayor, Council Member John Longoria said the city is accepting applications for a Municipal Court judge vacancy through the end of July. Mr. Chapa said the city has advertised through the newspaper, city job bulletin, and is sending letters to all the members of the Bar Association. Mayor Neal asked about the status of the property maintenance ordinance. Mr. Garcia said there are three major ordinances on property maintenance, visual obstructions for traffic, and solid Minutes Regular Council Meeting July 13, 1999 Page 28 waste which will be discussed next week. The Mayor also said that Mayor Emeritus Luther Jones will be bringing a resolution to the Council asking for their approval of Mayor Neal's desire to seek the nomination of Texas Municipal League President. He then called for Council concerns. Council Member Scott requested a written time table on the Ennis Joslin and Nile Drive improvement projects. He requested a copy of the report documenting damage caused to streets by RTA buses. He also asked about the time table on the Ethics Commission recommendations. Mr. Bray said they would be presented to the Council either August 24th or 31st. Mr. Scott also asked about odor concerns on the island. Mr. Garcia said he would provide information. Mr. Longoria said he was asked to serve on the Attorney General's Municipal Advisory Committee, which will meet July 16th. He said since he is unable to go Mrs. Longoria will be attending in his place and he asked Mr. Bray to provide information for that meeting. Council Member Colmenero referred to a copy of a videotape about the Bilingual Theater, and he asked that staff address the concern about graffiti at Kid's Place. He also forwarded an invitation to the Council on upcoming prayer services, and he asked for information on the improvements at McCaughan Park and the Art Center expansion. Council Member Garrett asked if the Council would be addressing the Alameda hospital district issue. Mr. Garcia said they will discuss it on August 31st. Mr. Garrett also asked Neighborhood Improvement to investigate a house at 5403 Lexington Rd. He also reported excessive debris in Flour Bluff. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria noted that she is president of the Texas Association of Mayors, Councilmembers and Commissioners and their state convention will be held this weekend in Lubbock. She said Corpus Christi is hosting the breakfast on Sunday since it will be the host city for the AMCC convention in 2000. She added that there is a possibility she will be appointed or elected to the state TML board. Council Member Kinnison said he understood that the Crime Control and Prevention District's budget is changing dramatically and he asked that it be provided to the Council. He asked if the presentation next week on the Mary Rhodes pipeline will be addressing how the city can take its full allotment of water next year; Mr. Garcia said they will discuss that. Mr. Kinnison asked that the Council photo at the airport be updated. Mr. Chapa noted that they are planning to take a group photo of the current Council to be included in the city's archives. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal declared the Council meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m. on July 13, 1999. *************