HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 08/22/2000I 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 22, 2000, which were approved
by the City Council on August 29, 2000.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 29th day of August, 2000.
SEAL
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
12:05 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr.
Council Members:
Javier D. Colmenero
Henry Garrett
Dr. Arnold Gonzales
Rex A. Kinnison
Betty Jean Longoria
John Longoria*
Mark Scott*
ABSENT
Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper
City Staff:
City Manager David R. Garcia
Deputy City Manager George Noe
City Attorney James R. Bray Jr.
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Recording Secretary Rachelle P. Ramon
Mayor Neal called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall.
The invocation was delivered by Rev. Stelios Sitaras, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church,
following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Betty
Jean Longoria. 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 Council Retreat of May 2, 2000, the regular meeting of July 25,
2000, and the special meeting of August 4, 2000. A motion was made and passed to approve the
minutes as presented.
*Mr. Scott arrived at 12:07 p.m. and Mr. Longoria arrived at 12:08 p.m.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to the board and committee appointments on the day's agenda, and the
following appointments were made:
C.C. Downtown Management District
Ernest "Buz" Maxwell (Reappointed)
H.T. "Buster" Patterson (Reappointed)
Willard Hammonds Sr. (Reappointed)
Erik Lee Ward (Reappointed)
Wes Hoskins
Wayne Lundquist
Jennifer Quick
Mark Adame
Park & Recreation Advisory Committee
Marvin Spears (Reappointed)
Sandra Billish (Reappointed)
Robert Tamez (Reappointed)
Vic Menard (Reappointed)
Rome Gregorio
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 2
Cable Communications Commission
Hector Morales (Reappointed)
Joel Yowell
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal announced the following executive sessions:
3.a. Executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding City of
Corpus Christi v. Advisory Commission on State Emergency Communications, No. 99-
02304, 201" District Court, Travis County, Texas, with possible action related thereto in
open session.
3.b. Executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 551.071 regarding AT&T
Cable television franchise negotiations with possible action related thereto in open session.
3.c. Executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding Jon
Harwood et al v. City of Corpus Christi, No. 00-4149-G, 319th District Court, Nueces
County, Texas with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session. (The
executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding Five
Citizens of Corpus Christi v. City of Corpus Christi et al No. 00-275-G, 319th District Court,
Nueces County, Texas, was cancelled.)
The Council went into executive session. The Council returned from executive session.
Mayor Neal made the following motion, seconded by Council Member Colmenero:
3.a. M2000-277
Motion directing the City's attorneys to appeal the District Court decision in City of Corpus
Christi v. Advisory Commission on State Emergency Communications, No. 99-02304, 20151
District Court, Travis County, Texas.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience.
Mr. Jack Gordy, 310 Norton St., said he had spoken with Mr. Jay Reining, First Assistant
City Attorney, who told him that the city has not issued citations for violations of the state Highway
Beautification Act. Mr. Gordy said he subsequently called the Austin office of the Texas Department
of Transportation regarding Mr. Reining's comments. He added that he has continuously complained
about specific locations of illegal signs and they are still there.
Mr. Roland Barrera, representing the Hispanic Contractors Association, said that while they
are pleased with the proposal to develop a minority contractor/subcontractor participation plan, they
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 3
are still concemed about the need to include more participation in the airport terminal construction
project. He said they were not involved in the process for the airport project.
Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said a study released by the Galveston District Office of the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers does not support the proposal to dredge Packery Channel due to the
negligible environmental benefits in relation to the high cost of the project.
Mr. Phil Rosenstein said political candidates and their workers do not knowingly put up
political signs on state right-of-ways; rather, they are erected on private property. He said he agrees
with a previous comment by Mrs. Longoria that there are more important concerns in the city other
than enforcement of sign regulations. He said he feels the Highway Beautification Act on this matter
is discriminatory, ambiguous, and unconstitutional.
Mr. Rocco Montesano, Executive Director of the U.S.S. Lexington Museum on the Bay,
expressed his appreciation to the Council and city staff for their cooperation with the filming of the
film "Pearl Harbor," including the need to quickly close certain streets. He said the film's actors and
crew were impressed with Corpus Christi and would film here again if the opportunity arose.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, said since the Council has voted to appeal the summary
judgement against the city regarding the 50 -cent charge for 9-1-1 services (Item 3.a.), he suggested
that everyone's telephone bills be reduced by 50 cents as promised by previous Councils. He also
invited Mayor Neal to welcome several hundred former aviation cadets and naval cadets who are
coming to Corpus Christi for a reunion on October 17, 2000.
Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, said that on behalf of the children in the county, he wished
to thank Mayor Neal and Council Members Gonzales and Kinnison for appearing before the
Commissioners Court to express their concerns about the safety of children, which he said is an
issue that should have no dollar signs attached to it.
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Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 4-27). Council members
and an audience member requested that Items 8 and 27 be withheld for discussion. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed:
4. M2000-278
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement to provide
$75,000 from the FY2000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to Gulf
Coast Council of La Raza for improvements to the facility located at 2203 Baldwin
Boulevard.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kirmison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 4
5.a. M2000-279
Motion approving the reimbursement application submitted by Mark D. Stockseth, owner
and developer of Lot 1, Block 1, Stockseth Tract, for the installation of an off-site, over -
depth sanitary sewer collection line.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
5.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024138
Ordinance appropriating $101,929.71 in the No. 4220 Sanitary Sewer Line Trust Fund to pay
Mark D. Stockseth's reimbursement request for installing an off-site, over -depth sanitary
sewer collection line to develop Lot 1, Block 1, Stockseth Tract.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
6.a. M2000-280
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of
$10,000 from the State of Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for tobacco compliance and
prevention activities.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
6.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024139
Ordinance appropriating $10,000 in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund from the State
of Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts for tobacco compliance and prevention activities.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
7.a. M2000-281
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an contract with the Texas
Department of Protective and Regulatory Services for funding in the amount of $500,000
from the Community Youth Development Program for the 78415 Zip Code for projects as
recommended by the Community Youth Development Steering Committee.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 5
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
7.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024140
Ordinance appropriating $500,000 from the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory
Services in the No. 1060 Federal/State Grants Fund to fund the Community Youth
Development Program in the 78415 zip code.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
7.c. M2000-282
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a subcontract with
Communities in Schools, Inc. in the amount of $333,355 to provide services for youth ages
6 to 17 in the 78415 zip code.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
7.d. M2000-283
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a subcontract with the
Housing Authority of Corpus Christi in the amount of $23,758 to provide services for youth
ages 17 years of age and under in the 78415 zip code.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
7.e. M2000-284
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a subcontract with the Park
and Recreation Department in the amount of $20,141 to provide services for youth ages 6
to 17 in the 78415 zip code.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
7.f. M2000-285
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a subcontract with Youth
Odyssey, Inc. in the amount of $33,215.00 to provide services for youth ages 12 to 17 in the
78415 zip code.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 6
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
9.a. RESOLUTION NO. 024141
Resolution accepting a $15,000 grant from Texas Department of Transportation to develop
a communication plan to promote pedestrian safety and authorizing the City Manager or his
designee to execute all related documents.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
9.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024142
Ordinance appropriating $15,000 received from Texas Department of Transportation in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund to develop a communication plan to promote pedestrian
safety.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Cohnenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
10.a. M2000-287
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant from the Coastal Bend
Regional Advisory Council in the amount of $3,358.05 to be used to purchase computer
equipment for the Corpus Christi Fire Department's EMS Division.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
10.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024143
Ordinance appropriating $3,358.05 from a grant from the Coastal Bend Regional Advisory
Council in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund to purchase computer equipment for EMS
Department.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
11.a. M2000-288
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a renewal grant in the amount
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 7
of $196,866 and execute a contract with the Corporation for National and Community
Service for the continuation of the Senior Companion Program.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
11.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024144
Ordinance appropriating $196,866 from a grant from the Corporation for National and
Community 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, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
12.a. ORDINANCE NO. 024145
Ordinance transferring $741,744 from the No. 1020 General Fund to the No. 1050
Federal/State Grants Fund; appropriating $741,744 in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants
Fund as matching funds for Senior Community Service Programs.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024146
Ordinance appropriating $25,000 from the Senior Community Services reserve funds as
matching funding for Senior Community Service Programs in the No. 1050 Federal State
Grants Fund.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
13.a. M2000-289
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Attachments No. 02, 03, and
04 to Contract No. 7460005741-2001 with the Texas Department of Health in the amount
of $162,823 for tuberculosis prevention and control, $124,258 for immunization services,
and $117,975 for regional/local health operations.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 8
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
13.b. ORDINANCE NO, 024147
Ordinance appropriating a grant from the Texas Department of Health in the amount of
$405,056 in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund; $162,823 for tuberculosis prevention
and control; $124,258 for immunization services; and $117,975 for regional/local health
operations.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
14. RESOLUTION NO. 024148
Resolution supporting the application by Nueces County for funding for the restoration of
the Historic Nueces County Courthouse from the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation
Program.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
15. ORDINANCE NO. 024149
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Use Privilege
Agreement with Williams Communications, Inc. dba VYVX Inc., in Texas for the right to
install, and maintain 30,753 1.f. of fiber optic communications cable in city street right-of-
way (Cantwell Drive, Sam Rankin Street, North Alameda, Savage Lane, Carancahua, Up
River Road, Palm Drive, Comanche Street, 19th Street, Howard Street, Kinney, Waco,
Blucher and North Carancahua); establishing a fee of $36,753.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
16. ORDINANCE NO. 024150
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Use Privilege
Agreement with the United States General Services Administration for the right to construct,
install and maintain enhanced pedestrian walkways, retaining walls, landscaping, and
architectural lighting (in association with the new Federal Courthouse) in the street right-of-
ways of a portion of IH 37 and Shoreline for the consideration of the General Services
Administration constructing, installing and maintaining the improvements.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 9
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
17. ORDINANCE NO. 024151
Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 023395 by authorizing the City Manager or his designee
to extend until February 1, 2001, the 24 -month Use Privilege Agreement (authorized by
Ordinance No. 023395) with Fulton Construction/Coastcon Corporation, a joint venture, to
use a portion of the bayfront improvements/IH 37 park (Gateway Park) "Park Project" as a
construction yard in conjunction with its construction of the new U.S. Federal Courthouse,
in consideration of payment of $917 per month to the Unrestricted Park Trust Fund and
indemnifying excess park construction costs as set out in the agreement.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
18. ORDINANCE NO. 024152
Ordinance approving the amount of $153,384.44 (from King's Crossing Realty, Ltd.) as
developer's contribution for in lieu of the half street construction (with supporting public
utility infrastructure) of Strasbourg Drive and Loire Boulevard, as required by development
of King's Crossing Unit 13, Block 2, Lot 1; and establishing a City interest-bearing account
in the Infrastructure Trust Fund for the deposit of developer's contribution; and restricting
said monies for the completion of "improvements" at the time of platting and development
of the properties directly adjacent to and abutting the secured "improvement " opposite
King's Crossing Unit 13, Block 2, Lot 1.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
19. ORDINANCE NO. 024153
Ordinance approving $53,115.11 (from King's Crossing Realty, Ltd.) as developer's
contribution for in lieu of half street construction (with supporting public utility
infrastructure) of Strasbourg Drive, as required by the development of King's Crossing Unit
13; and establishing a city interest-bearing account in the Infrastructure Trust Fund for
deposit of developer's contribution; and restricting said monies for completion of
"improvements" at time of platting and development of properties directly adjacent to and
abutting the secured "improvement" opposite King's Crossing Unit 13.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 10
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
20. ORDINANCE NO. 024154
Ordinance approving $51,653.70 (from Braselton Land Ventures Inc.) as developer's
contribution for in lieu of half street construction of Patti Drive (with supporting public
utility infrastructure), as required by development of The Village at Dunbarton Oak Unit 1;
and establishing a city interest-bearing account in the Infrastructure Trust Fund for deposit
of developer's contribution; and restricting said monies for completion of "improvements"
at time of platting and development of properties directly adjacent to and abutting the secured
"improvements" opposite The Village at Dunbarton Oak Unit 1.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
21. M2000-290
Motion setting a Public Hearing to be held September 26, 2000 on the November 7, 2000
Economic Sales Tax Ballot Propositions.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
22.a. RESOLUTION NO. 024155
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept the Federal Aviation
Administration Grant No. 3-48-0051-30-00 in the amount of $504,000 for the purchase of
a replacement ARFF Truck with Extendible Elevated Waterway, Driver's Enhanced Vision
System (DEVS) and Personal Protective Clothing.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
22.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024156
Ordinance appropriating $504,000 from the Federal Aviation Administration Grant No. 3-48-
0051-30-00 in the No. 3020 Airport Capital Improvement Fund to purchase of a replacement
ARFF Truck with Extendible Elevated Waterway, Driver's Enhanced Vision System
(DEVS), and Personal Protective Clothing.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 11
23.a. RESOLUTION NO. 024157
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept Federal Aviation
Administration Grant No. 3-48-0051-29-00 in the amount of $69,636 for the construction
of airfield access road.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
23.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024158
Ordinance appropriating $69,636 from Federal Aviation Administration Grant No. 3-48-
0051-29-00 in the No. 3020 Airport Capital Improvement Fund; appropriating $7,737 in the
No. 4610 Airport Fund from Capital Reserves and transferring it to and appropriating it in
the No. 3020 Airport Capital Improvement Fund; for construction of airfield access roads;
amending Ordinance No. 024130, which adopted the FY 00-01 Budget by adding $7,737 to
the No. 4610 Airport Fund.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
24. RESOLUTION NO. 024159
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept Federal Aviation
Administration Grant No. 3-48-0051-31-00, contingent upon receipt of the grant offer, in the
amount of $800,000 for the Terminal Apron Improvements project.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
25. ORDINANCE NO. 024160
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute four separate five-year farm leases
to Kocurek Farms for utilization of 244.12 acres; T. M. and D. H. Bemsen Farms for
utilization of 336.78 acres; McDonough Farms for utilization of 359.45 acres; and Kelly
Farms for utilization of 494.1 acres of land located at Corpus Christi International Airport,
with each lessee paying a rental fee of $25 per acre per year.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading as follows: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
26. ORDINANCE NO. 024161
Amending the City of Corpus Christi, Code of Ordinances by revising Chapter 15,
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 12
Emergency Management, regarding powers, duties and responsibilities of the Office of
Emergency Management; providing for the declaration of a local state of disaster, and other
emergency orders; providing for Mayoral designation of certain emergency management
officials, providing for penalties.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading as follows: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 8, beach cleaning. Council Member Scott said he had
received a complaint from the Island House condominiums that the city was doing a poor job of
cleaning the beach in front of the seawall. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
8. M2000-286
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute all necessary documents for
continued financial assistance through the General Land Office for beach cleaning and life
guarding on Padre Island during FY 2000-01.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 27, FY2000-01 capital budget.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien said his main objection is to the inclusion of the Packery Channel project
in Years 2 and 3 of the capital improvement program.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
27. ORDINANCE NO. 024162
Approving the FY 2000-2001 Capital Budget in the amount of $143,347,400.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading as follows: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to the presentation on the day's agenda. Mr. Angel Escobar, Director
of Engineering Services, gave a review of the airport terminal construction project. Using a computer
presentation, Mr. Escobar explained that in 1997 an inspection revealed potential structural problems
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 13
with the existing terminal building. The following year, John F. Brown conducted a feasibility study
to determine the maximum amount of funding the airport could generate for capital improvement
projects without utilizing other city funds. In April 1999 Arthur Gensler & Associates were selected
as the project architect for the airport reconstruction project, and on August 11, 2000, bids for
constructing the new facility were opened.
Mr. Escobar said the $36.1 million airport capital improvement project involves the
following entities: the City Council, the airport, the Airport Board, the airlines, the Federal Aviation
Administration, and the terminal tenants. The overall project has been separated into 10 separate
projects: temporary terminal, $1.5 million; roadway and parking improvements, $7.8 million; aircraft
apron, $2.7 million; terminal reconstruction, $22 million; airport wastewater lift station relocation,
$520,000; tower demolition and paving, $185,000; tower asbestos removal, $60,000; airfield
electrical projects, $515,000; service road, $70,000; and airfield lighting improvements, $750,000.
Mr. Escobar then reviewed the separate projects. He said the temporary terminal (Phase
1/Contract No. 1), which is about 67% complete, was scheduled first in order to permit continuous
operation during demolition of the old terminal and construction of the new facility. The terminal
reconstruction (Phase 2/Contract No. 4) consists of the remodeling of the west portion of the
terminal as well as construction of the new facility. He said the new terminal is scheduled for
completion by Thanksgiving 2002. He also referred to diagrams comparing the layout of the current
facility versus the planned facility.
The Engineering Director said that bids for the aircraft apron project (Phase 3/Contract No.
3) are scheduled to be opened on August 30, 2000. He said that project is necessary to meet FAA
space separation requirements and it will permit the use of larger aircraft. The roadway and parking
improvements (Phase 4/Contract No. 2) are currently being designed by Russell-Veteto Engineering
(a local firm) and that contract is anticipated to be awarded in January 2001. He said the project will
provide for a new entry roadway, landscaping and parking facilities and it is being timed to facilitate
efficient holiday operations.
He continued that the airport wastewater lift station relocation (Phase 5/Contract No. 5) is
also currently being designed. It will be relocated during the terminal construction to provide for
continuous wastewater service to the terminal and other airfield tenants. Mr. Escobar noted that that
project is being funded by the wastewater utility and not through airport funds. The airfield lighting
control improvements (Phase 6/Contract No. 10) are necessary to provide the new FAA tower with
the newest technology and safety improvements in airfield lighting controls. The architectural and
engineering contract is currently under negotiation and its anticipated completion is November 2001.
Mr. Escobar said the airfield electrical projects (Phase 7/Contract No. 8) will allow for the
relocation of the beacon, which is necessary due to the new FAA tower. It will also include an
emergency generator to provide enhanced electrical capacity for the new terminal building and
expanded airfield lighting. The tower asbestos removal (Phase 8/Contract No. 7) will permit the
demolition of the existing control tower in compliance with applicable TNRCC regulations, and the
tower demolition and paving project (Phase 9/Contract No. 6) will provide for the demolition of the
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 14
old tower upon occupancy of the new FAA tower. The construction of two service roads (Phase
10/Contract No. 9) will allow for the separation of vehicular traffic from aircraft traffic along the
airside space, thus completing the airport terminal capital improvement program.
Mr. Escobar noted that this whole program has been carefully planned in phases to ensure
that the existing airlines and other airport tenants are kept in operation throughout the construction
period. He said the current program design does not require the city to hire an additional project
manager to oversee construction. The single contract for the terminal reconstruction phase relies on
the use of a general contractor's staff, rather than city staff or consultant's staff, and effectively
utilizes the limited time allotted for construction. It also increases accountability that the project will
be completed on time and within the available funding.
Mr. Escobar said staff has reviewed the credentials and submittals of the low bidder, Fulton
Construction/Coastcon, and the consulting architects have recommended that the Council consider
awarding the contract to that company with the base bid and each of the six additive alternates.
Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Escobar said the total cost of the 10 phases
of the project is $36.1 million. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria asked about the original
architect of the terminal building. City Attomey Bray stated that the statute of repose is 10 years on
architects and engineers. City Manager Garcia pointed out that since the city is the owner of the
terminal facility, it is the city's responsibility to maintain it in a safe condition. He added that the old
terminal experienced a failure in the post -tensioning system of the concrete.
In reply to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Escobar briefly explained the construction of
the temporary terminal by Beecroft Construction. Council Member Garrett asked about Pinson
Drive, and Mr. Dave Hamrick, Airport Operations Manager, said it will remain open during and after
the airport construction project.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 28, minority contractor/subcontractor participation.
He explained that he and other Council members recently met with representatives from various
groups following the discussion of the airport contract. He said in an attempt to arrive at a fair way
to deal with similar projects in the future, he was submitting this proposal for the formation of an
advisory committee, which will develop and recommend plans to allow for maximum minority/small
contractor and subcontractor participation in construction projects.
Council Member Gonzales said that while the formation of this committee should help the
city in the future, he did not think there was any need to include the Hispanic, Black, and Corpus
Christi Chambers of Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, or the C.C. Regional
Economic Development Corporation. He said the committee should consist of representatives in the
construction fields and they should not have to waste their time explaining things to others who are
unfamiliar with those activities.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 15
Council Member Kinnison said he wanted to make sure that this committee would not be
setting policy, which is the role of the Council. Mayor Neal said the purpose of having the committee
under the direction of the City Engineer and the Engineering staff was to allow those discussions to
take place in the early stages. He said he would leave that up to the Engineering Department to bring
whatever recommendations they make to the Council.
Council Member John Longoria said if the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was excluded
from this committee, contractors that are members of the Hispanic Chamber but not other
organizations risk being excluded or uninformed about upcoming projects. A discussion ensued.
Council Member Colmenero said it is important to have individuals who know and understand the
industry well without creating another bureaucracy.
Mayor Neal called for public comment.
Mr. Isidore Salazar, Chairman of the Hispanic Contractors Association, said he thought the
committee should be limited to people who are construction -oriented. He said their job would be
more difficult if they had to educate the other members of the committee.
Dr. Gonzales made a motion to exclude the following organizations from the committee:
Convention and Visitors Bureau, C.C. Regional Economic Development Corporation, Corpus Christi
Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Black Chamber of Commerce;
seconded by Mrs. Longoria. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council and the motion to amend Item
28 failed to pass by the following vote: Colmenero, Gonzales, and B. Longoria voting "Aye"; Neal,
Garrett, Kinnison, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "No"; Cooper absent.
Mr. Chapa then polled the Council for their votes on Item 28 as follows:
28. M2000-291
Motion authorizing the City Engineer to appoint an advisory committee to develop and
recommend plans to allow maximum minority/small contractor and subcontractor
participation in the various construction projects.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Gonzales voting "No"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 29, airport bonds. Mr. Jeff Leuschel, of McCall,
Parkhurst and Horton, bond counsel to the city, said the three ordinances that relate specifically to
the bonds are designed to achieve several purposes. The master ordinance sets forth all the basic
covenants and requirements for the operation and funding of the revenue finance system for the
airport. He said the bonds are secured solely by the revenues generated at the airport, including
passenger facility charges, and none of the funds (such as the General Fund) are available as security
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 16
for the payment of debt service on the bonds.
Mr. Leuschel said there are two separate series of bonds. The Series 2000A bonds (specified
private activity bonds) are to finance improvements at the terminal. The Series 2000B bonds
(traditional municipal bonds) will be used to finance improvements to the roadways, parking lots,
etc. He noted that the Intemal Revenue Code specifies a procedure to solicit public comment on the
private activity bonds. He said a notice was published in the August 6, 2000 edition of the Corpus
Christi Caller -Times to meet those requirements about the hearing. A motion was made, seconded,
and passed to open the public hearing to receive comments from the audience.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien said his comments are not directed against this project. However, he said
there is a concern about issuing more debt without voter approval, for which he gave specific
examples. He asked if there was a shortage of airport revenues, whether the old bonds would have
to be paid for from property taxes.
Mr. Leuschel replied that the statutes which authorize the city to issue airport revenue bonds
do not require an election to be held. With respect to the general obligation bonds, the model that
has been presented on the finances takes into account the continued transfers from the Airport Fund
to pay the debt service on those bonds. However, if there are not sufficient revenues after paying the
revenue bonds' debt service, then ad valorem taxes would be made available to pay the debt service
on the general obligation bonds.
Mayor Neal then made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member
Colmenero, and passed (Cooper absent).
Mr. Jorge Cruz-Aedo, Director of Finance, said that on August 17th the Series A and B bonds
were priced for their potential sale. He noted that this is the first airport bond issue based solely on
the airport's revenues. The Series A bonds are $13.01 million and the Series B bonds are $9.64
million, for a total of $22.65 million. He then described the ratings of the bonds and their use. Mr.
Mark Seal, of M.E. Allison and Company, commented on the financial environment during this bond
sale.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
29.a. ORDINANCE NO. 024163
Master Ordinance establishing the General Airport Revenue Bond Financing Program with
respect to the Issuance of Obligations by the City of Corpus Christi, Texas payable from
General Airport Revenues.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 17
29.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024164
First Ordinance supplementing the Master Ordinance authorizing the issuance, sale, and
delivery of City of Corpus Christi General Airport Revenue Bonds, Series 2000A (exempt
facility bonds); and approving and authorizing instruments and procedures relating thereto.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
29.c. ORDINANCE NO. 024165
Second Ordinance supplementing the Master Ordinance authorizing the issuance, sale, and
delivery of City of Corpus Christi General Airport Revenue Bonds, Series 2000B, and
approving and authorizing instruments and procedures relating thereto.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
29.d. ORDINANCE NO. 024166
Ordinance appropriating $13,010,000 from the proceeds of the sale of City of Corpus Christi
General Airport Revenue Bonds, Series 2000A (exempt facility bonds) in the No. 3024
Airport 2000A Capital Improvement Program Fund for the purpose of constructing,
improving, renovating, enlarging and equipping the Corpus Christi International Airport.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
29.e. ORDINANCE NO. 024167
Ordinance appropriating $9,640,000 from the proceeds of sale of City of Corpus Christi
General Airport Revenue Bonds, Series 2000B in the No. 3025 Airport 2000B Capital
Improvements Program Fund for the purpose of constructing, improving, renovating,
enlarging and equipping the Corpus Christi International Airport.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 18
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 30, airport terminal construction contract. There were
no comments from the audience. Council Member John Longoria expressed confidence in Mr.
Fulton's ability to construct this facility. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
30.a. ORDINANCE NO. 024168
Ordinance appropriating $2,299,303 in Passenger Facility Charges in the No. 4620 Passenger
Facility Charges Fund for the Corpus Christi International Airport Terminal Building.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
30.b. M2000-292
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with
Fulton Construction/Coastcon, A Joint Venture in the amount of $16,472,000 for the Corpus
Christi International Airport Terminal Construction Project.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 31, tax year 2000. There were no comments from the
audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
31. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Prescribing the taxes to be levied, assessed and collected by the City of Corpus Christi, Texas
for tax year 2000 and for each succeeding year thereafter until otherwise provided and
ordained and such other years as the same may be applicable.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero,
Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper
absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 32 regarding combination tax and revenue certificates
of obligation. There were no comments from the audience. Responding to Council Member
Kinnison, City Manager Garcia said this includes the interest payments that were accrued to the
Utility Funds for the amount that they were borrowed; consequently, they will be made whole for
the original amount plus earned interest. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 19
32. RESOLUTION NO. 024169
Resolution by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas directing publication of
Notice of Intention to issue Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation, Series
2000, and resolving other matters relating to the subject.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 33, landfill final cover system. City Secretary Chapa
said Item 33.a. needs to be amended to exclude the word "Falcon" from the company's name. There
were no comments from the audience. A motion was made, seconded, and passed to amend Item
33.a. as stated by Mr. Chapa.
Responding to Council Member Garrett, Mr. Kevin Stowers, Assistant Director of
Engineering Services, said this is the final cover for cells (sectors) 1-4 of the J.C. Elliott Landfill;
however, other cells remain in operation at this time. Mr. Garcia referred to a map of the affected
cells. Assistant City Manager Ron Massey explained that once a cell reaches its approved capacity,
the city has 12 months to complete the final cover of that cell. He said staff estimates that the
remaining life of the Elliott Landfill is about five years. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes
as follows:
33.a. M2000-293
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract in
the amount of $1,441,112.60 with Environmental Specialities International, Inc. of Baton
Rouge, Louisiana for the J.C. Elliott Landfill - Final Cover System Installation project.
The foregoing motion passed, as amended, by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
33.b. M2000-294
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for quality control
testing and preparation of the Final Cover System Evaluation Report (FCSER) in the amount
of $101,060 with Trinity Engineering Testing Corporation of Corpus Christi, Texas for the
J.C. Elliott Landfill - Final Cover System Installation project.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 20
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 34, air quality research projects. There were no
comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
34.a. M2000-295
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No.2 to grant
contract No. 582-0-31274 with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission which
funds air quality planning and research for $465,075.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
34.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024170
Ordinance appropriating $465,075 from the Texas Natural Resource Conservation
Commission in the No. 1050 FederaUState Grants Fund for air quality research and planning.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
34.c. RESOLUTION NO. 024171
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No. 1 to
Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Texas A&M University - Kingsville in the amount
of $316,500 for air quality research and planning program.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
34.d. RESOLUTION NO. 024172
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No. 1 to
Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Texas A&M University -Corpus Christi in the amount
of $110,000 for pollution prevention partnership and educational outreach program.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 35, art foundation lease amendment. There were no
comments from the audience. Responding to Council Member Scott, Mr. Garcia said the $15,000
was provided through a CDBG grant. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 21
35.a. M2000-296
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to purchase property located at 2031
Agnes Street for the Corpus Christi Art Foundation, Inc. dba South Texas Institute for the
Arts to add a multi -use recreational area. The amount allocated for this purpose is $15,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
35.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the "First Amendment to the Lease
Agreement" with the Corpus Christi Art Foundation, Inc. dba South Texas Institute for the
Arts for the lease of two properties from the City for consideration of one dollar per year for
the purpose of developing a youth activities park and to provide bus access to the Antonio
E. Garcia Education Center, and providing for the automatic renewal of the lease term for
an additional ten years.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero,
Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper
absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 36, Downtown Management District lighting
improvements. There were no comments from the audience. Mr. Scott pointed out that the DMD
taxes the businesses in its boundaries to obtain these funds. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council
for their votes as follows:
36.a. M2000-297
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the
Corpus Christi Downtown Management District and Central Power and Light Company for
the construction of Phase 2B of proposed sidewalk area street lighting improvements in the
Downtown Business District at a cost not to exceed $130,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
36.b. ORDINANCE NO 024173
Ordinance appropriating $130,000 from the Corpus Christi Downtown Management District
in the No. 1020 General Fund - Street Lighting Activity for Phase 2B of sidewalk/street
lighting improvements in the Downtown Business District; amending Ordinance No. 024130,
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 22
which adopted the FY 00-01 budget, by adding $130,000 to the No. 1020 General Fund -
Street Lighting Activity #12460-530210.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Cohnenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 37, Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program. He
called for comments from the audience.
Mr. Ray Allen, Executive Director of the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, thanked
the city for their participation and for proposing these projects, which have a great environmental
benefit and economic impact. He said they will be coming back with additional projects in the future.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
37.a. M2000-298
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a reimbursement contract
with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program for the following projects:
1) Ropes Park Extension Project in the amount of $50,000
2) Corpus Christi Beach Shoreline Stabilization - Habitat Creation Project in the
amount of $85,000
3) Ecotourism Project in the amount of $75,000
4) Bay Debris Removal Demonstration Project - End of Pipe Collection System
in the amount of $50,000
5) Outreach Campaign for Seagrass Protection, Storm Water Pollution, and Bay
Stewardship in the amount of $50,000
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
37.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024174
Ordinance appropriating $50,000 from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for Ropes Park Extension.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 23
37.c. ORDINANCE NO. 024175
Ordinance appropriating $85,000 from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for Corpus Christi Beach Shoreline Stabilization -Habitat
Creation Project.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
37.d. ORDINANCE NO. 024176
Ordinance appropriating $75,000 from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for the Ecotourism Project.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
37.e. ORDINANCE NO. 024177
Ordinance appropriating $50,000 from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for the Bay Debris Removal Demonstration Project -
End of Pipe Collection System.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye";
Cooper absent.
37.f. ORDINANCE NO. 024178
Ordinance appropriating $50,000 from the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program in the
No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for Outreach Campaign for Seagrass Protection, Storm
Water Pollution, and Bay Stewardship.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett,
Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Cooper absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal recessed the regular Council meeting for the annual meetings of the following
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.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 24
Mayor Neal reconvened the regular meeting and called for the City Manager's report. Mr.
Garcia stated that upon implementation of the new city budget, certain structural changes were made.
He said the Risk Management Department and Purchasing Department now report to the Finance
Director and that department has been renamed the Financial Services Department. He said there
were no changes in personnel or salaries. Also, he noted that Ms. Bonnie Allin, Aviation Director,
has left the city and they have begun a national search to fill her position. In the interim, Assistant
City Manager Jorge Garza is serving as the Acting Aviation Director.
Mr. Garcia also said that Mr. Rudy Garza, Acting Budget Director, left to work for the City
of Austin and a search for a budget director has begun. Consequently, Mr. Garcia said he has asked
his assistant, Mr. Mario Tapia, to serve as the Acting Budget Director, and to have Ms. Yvonne
Haag, Community Relations Coordinator for the Communications and Quality Management
Department, to perform Mr. Tapia's duties in the City Manager's Office in the interim.
Mayor Neal referred to an article in the day's newspaper regarding the efforts of the Corpus
Christi Army Depot to hire new employees through a cooperative program with Del Mar College.
He then called for Council concerns and reports.
Mr. Garrett asked Mr. Garcia if he offered Mr. Rudy Garza the position of budget director.
Mr. Garcia replied that he did not. Mr. Garrett said he received a letter about a partially completed
structure at 3861 Ocean Drive which is an eyesore. He said he has also received a letter from a
concerned resident about the use of River Canyon Park. Mrs. Longoria and Mr. Tony Cisneros,
Director of Park and Recreation, said that the topography in that area prevents it from being used as
a neighborhood park, which they explained.
Mr. Scott asked staff to investigate issues regarding funding for a portion of I-69 as well as
FHA loans for new homes on Padre Island. He also asked if the city is up to date on its financials;
Mr. Cruz-Aedo replied that the city is reconciled with all bank statements through the end of July.
Dr. Gonzales congratulated Mr. Herb Canales on the opening of the Janet F. Harte Library
in Flour Bluff, and he asked that the Council be notified when staff cuts services to major parks in
the city. He also asked whether there is a committee which monitors underground pipelines in the
area. Mr. Garcia and Mr. Juan Ortiz, Emergency Management Coordinator, explained that the LEPC
has a subcommittee for pipelines and they are in the process of collecting that information.
Mr. Longoria asked about the city's participation in the Community Development
Corporation (CDC). Assistant City Manager Tom Utter explained that the city assisted in
establishing the CDC, which is a bank -owned corporation approved by the comptroller of the
currency. He said the corporation's board consists of representatives from banks and community
interests. He said the CDC is one of the vehicles the city is using in its new construction program
for 150 new homes; in addition, the CDC has raised from its members about $250,000 to $300,000
and the corporation is assisting the city in small-business lending efforts through the Housing and
Community Development program. The city has $500,000 of CDBG funds in the CDC. Mr. Utter
said staff will provide a more in-depth report.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
August 22, 2000
Page 25
Mrs. Longoria forwarded a letter from a representative of the South Texas Institute for the
Arts in which he said the Agnes facility is not handicapped user-friendly.
Mr. Colmenero reported an alley with high weeds along Ayers Street between private
property and the La Armada area. He also referred to a recent article from a Texas newspaper
regarding an advertising contract that was awarded by the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors
Bureau. He requested a report on the history of a previous transaction involving the person who was
awarded the contract. Mrs. Longoria said she received a phone call from a former CVB board
member who served during the time of that transaction and who expressed concern about it. Mr.
Garcia pointed out that staff would have to obtain that information from the CVB.
Mr. Colmenero also said it would be helpful for the Council to be informed about activities
by the Police Department in the Belton Street area (the location of recent gang killings). Dr.
Gonzales said he attended a meeting at a church in the Belton Street area and members of the city-
wide Ministerial Alliance came together to help resolve problems there. Mr. Colmenero thanked staff
for an update on the CDBG projects, and he asked about the economic development corporation
appointments. Mayor Neal replied that that issue will be on the agenda for discussion next week and
for appointment during the September 12th meeting.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the
Council meeting at 4:47 p.m. on August 22, 2000.
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