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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 08/29/2000I 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 29, 2000, which were approved by the City Council on September 12, 2000. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 12th day of September, 2000. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 2:00 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper* Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero Henry Garrett* Dr. Arnold Gonzales Rex A. Kinnison Betty Jean Longoria John Longoria Mark Scott 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 Pastor Robin McCullugh-Bade, Galilean Lutheran Church- ELCA, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Colmenero. City Secretary Chapa called the roll and verified that the necessary quorum of the Council and the required charter officers were present to conduct the meeting. Mayor Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of August 22, 2000. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented. *Council Members Cooper and Garrett arrived at 2:04 p.m. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 2, designating an area in the North Padre Island seawall area as a tax increment financing (TIF) district. City Secretary Chapa stated that Council Members Garrett and Gonzales had filed disclosure affidavits regarding this item and they would be abstaining from discussing or voting on it as required by state law because they own nearby property whose value may be affected. A motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing. Assistant City Manager Tom Utter said the placement of sand in front of the North Padre Island seawall and the opening of a channel to the Gulf of Mexico has been discussed for many years. He said the 1999 Water Resources Development Act includes the "North Padre Island Storm Damage Reduction and Environmental Restoration Project." He said that project involves the placement of sand in front of the Padre Island seawall to restore the beach and protect the seawall. The sand is to be taken from the dredging and channelization of a reopened Packery Channel. The project is preliminarily estimated to cost $30 million, with $19.5 million being provided by the Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 2 federal government and $10.5 million as the local match. Mr. Utter noted that the Water Resources Development Act also requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) to undertake two findings: 1) to determine if the project is environmentally acceptable; and 2) to determine if the project is technically sound. The COE, which has initiated those two projects, requested that a local sponsor step forward. During its March 21, 2000 meeting, the City Council accepted that responsibility and authorized the preparation of a preliminary financial plan for a possible tax increment financing district on North Padre Island. Mr. Utter said the proposed district contains 1,930.3 acres of principally undeveloped land with development centering on hotel, motel, condominium and business uses. In addition to the seawall and Packery Channel projects, staff is preliminarily recommending the construction of a beach/visitor parking facility on the seawall on city -owned property at a cost of $750,000. He went on to say that the city engaged the services of Economic Research Associates (ERA) to provide estimates of tax increment funds to be generated by development in the proposed district. Under the conservative development scenario, cumulative tax revenues between 2001-2020 are estimated to be $90 million, while the opportunistic scenario estimates revenues to be $139 million. Mr. Utter explained the concept of tax increment financing: the additional taxes brought about by the new development would go into a fund to pay for the public improvements which caused the new development to take place. Mr. Utter said the COE expects the technically sound portion of the study to be completed by the end of November 2000, and the study regarding the environmental aspects is scheduled for completion in summer 2001. He said if those reports are favorable, the COE could be ready to sign a project agreement with the city in January 2002. Mr. Utter added that the project would be financed through the sale of bonds to interests on the island; consequently, it is in the best interest of the bond purchasers to have the development take place. In addition, there is a condition stipulating that the maintenance of the facility would be taken care of before any bond payments would be made. He also noted that presentations and discussions with staff have been held with the participating entities. Mr. Dan Martin, partner in the firm of ERA, said that ERA are leisure -time economists. He said two years ago ERA completed a tourism development strategy for Corpus Christi and previously the firm had conducted about 10 other studies here. For this project, Mr. Martin said ERA conducted two studies: a tax increment financing projection and an economic impact study for possible development in the TIF district. Under the latter study, ERA looked at impacts of new visitors, construction, related jobs and wages, and finances. Mr. Martin proceeded to give a computer presentation describing the scope of their studies and their conclusions, including the conservative and opportunistic scenarios previously discussed by Mr. Utter. Mr. Jeff Leuschel, of McCall, Parkhurst and Horton, said he has reviewed several of the documents before the Council, including the proposed first reading ordinance. He said this financing structure (the TIF) is becoming more commonly used throughout the state in the development of underdeveloped properties. Mr. Leuschel said the preliminary finance plan and the proposed Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 3 ordinance comport with the requirements of the statute, and the notice of the public hearing was duly given. He said he was sure the final financing plan will reflect comments made during this public hearing as well as meetings with other taxing units in the area. Mr. John Michael, of Naismith Engineering, said Nueces County spent approximately three years reviewing the overall economic, technical and environmental feasibility aspects of this project. He said the technical coastal process work was performed by Dr. Nick Kraus, who was previously with the Conrad Blucher Institute for Surveying and Science. (He has since left to lead the Corps of Engineers' inlet research program.) The economic work was performed by Hammer, Siler, George Associates of Atlanta and the coastal engineering and cost estimating was performed by Shiner, Moseley & Associates of Corpus Christi. Mr. Michael noted that the Texas General Land Office (GLO) performed a peer review of the Blucher team's work, which was paid for by the state and was separate from Naismith Engineering's work. He said the GLO's peer panel concluded that the work prepared for Nueces County was thorough and based on solid science. He said that panel made some specific recommendations regarding development of a long-term sand management plan for the project, but they indicated that could be done as the project moved forward into design and implementation. He said in essence the COE is performing a peer review of the original peer review. Mr. Michael said that as Dr. Kraus conducted his study, two tropical storms hit Padre Island, which highlighted the need to protect the seawall there. The seawall itself protects an area containing a considerable amount of public and private development. He said FEMA's flood elevations for the development there were based on the ongoing integrity of the seawall. Mr. Michael noted that the continuing maintenance of Packery Channel will provide future sources of renourishment for the beach in front of the seawall. Mr. Michael added that in response to a request by Congress several years ago, the Corps determined that they could not justify the project based solely on its environmental merits, given the constraints they had to work under. However, he said staff is working with the Corps to get the cost - to -benefit analysis where it needs to be. Mr. Jim Shiner, of Shiner, Moseley & Associates, said the Blucher Institute had done much work on specific aspects of the project, such as the length of the jetties and the width of the channel. In determining cost estimates, Mr. Shiner said his firm did not just rely on their experience with similar projects but they also talked with four different dredging contractors and two different out-of- state contractors which do nothing but rock construction of this type. He noted that the three major cost items on this project are dredging, jetties, and shoreline protection, and they feel those numbers are valid. Responding to questions from Mayor Neal, Mr. Utter said the TIF bonds are proposed not to be a general obligation of the city, the county or any governmental entity; they would solely be the responsibility of the tax increment. He reiterated the preliminary cost breakdown of $19.5 million federal monies and $10.5 million local, and he said the conservative scenario estimates that the TIF Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 4 will produce three to four times the amount necessary to amortize the bonds. Mr. Utter and the other speakers then answered several Council members' questions. Mayor Neal called for public comment. Mr. Joe McComb, a Nueces County Commissioner, said the impact on the city from this project is significant. He said the property value behind the seawall has diminished significantly because of the rolling easement of the property line established by the state. Mr. McComb noted that Nueces County has been interested in this project for years but one of the options that was not available to the county was the creation of a tax increment financing district; consequently, the county could not pursue that method of funding the project. After the city stepped forward as the project's sponsor, the County Commissioners passed a resolution supporting the city's active participation in this project. Mr. Joe Wilson, 2018 Caribbean, said he is in favor of the project although he does not own any real estate on Padre Island. Mr. Frank Hankins, 721 Crestview Dr., said the Corps has not completed its studies and he questioned whether this action is not premature. He said he will not speak in favor of or against this project but the time line is important. Mr. Trian Serbu, 14310 Playa del Rey, said the TIF concept is supposed to be for blighted areas. He said growth on Padre Island has increased tremendously in the last decade despite the absence of this project. He said the construction and maintenance costs will be much higher than projected, adding that this proposal is a hoax. Ms. Gail Hoffman, Executive Director of Associated General Contractors, said she was reaffirming her support for this project, which can have a tremendous economic impact on the area. Mr. Bill Braselton, 6038 Edgewater, said this is an excellent way to increase property values and utilize the potential of Padre Island. Mr. Cliff Zarsky, 5202 Wooldridge, said when he served on the Council 20 years ago he believed then and continues to believe that tourism and convention business are some of Corpus Christi's best assets. He said this project is one of the city's best opportunities for growth. Mr. Don Feferman, 318 Bermuda, said he was a lawyer for the Padre Isles project for over 20 years beginning in the late 1960s. He said that project has developed very slowly in comparison to what the developer thought would happen. He said now he has no financial or professional interest in Padre Island, although he feels this project will benefit the whole city. Mr. Bill Goin, representing the Padre Island Business Association, said this project is not only important to Padre Island but to the whole county. He urged the Council's support. Mr. Richard Pittman, President of the Padre Isles Property Owners Association (PIPOA), said 7,500 residents currently live on Padre Island, which has over $40 million in property values. He Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 5 showed pictures of the seawall when it was first built (with an extensive beachhead); covered with high tides; and damage resulting from Hurricane Allen. He asked the Council to support the project. Mr. Gene Knight, Director of the PIPOA, said they support this project for the safety and welfare of the community. He said this is the final piece of the puzzle because the city has already built the public infrastructure to support the growth on the island. He said the island is basically zoned and settled on the west side of Park Road 22, while the east side is not. He said Packery Channel is the centerpiece of that side of the island. Mr. David Cheek, CEO of the C.C. Association of Realtors, recognized his organization's members who were present. He said they support the project and urged the Council to approve it. Ms. Elizabeth Walker, 13969 Das Marinas, said she has been in favor of this project for years. As a wildlife photographer, she would never support anything that would endanger that part of her life. Ms. Betty Spencer, 13845 Hawksnest Bay Dr., said that if the projected development does not occur, it would appear that the city would have to step in to protect its investment, which would involve taxpayer dollars. She expressed concern that the Council was not using the TIF to directly help the Hispanic and African-American areas of the city but rather to benefit certain developers, real estate agents, and others who stand to make millions of dollars from this project. She said it is the Council's responsibility to gain the public's support. Mr. Jeff Frahm, 13501 Royal Fifth Court, said there is a broad base of information in support of the Packery Channel project. He encouraged people to rely on facts when making a decision about this project. Mr. Foster Edwards, 118 Alta Plaza, said he was glad the Council found a way to finance this project. He said many people believe this project will cause tremendous economic growth that will benefit not only the city but the entire community. Mr. Byron Wooldridge, 6705 Deerwood, said the money coming from the federal government is the citizens' tax money. He expressed concern about the design and effect of the jetties and whether the channel would compromise the integrity of the island as a barrier island, which puts the city at a possible risk. He added that the citizens have twice said "no" to this project. Mr. Jack Gordy, 310 Norton, said there was not much reassurance by the project's proponents that it would not have an impact. He said the Council promised to support the people and during the county's bond election in 1997, the people turned down this project. He added that his federal income taxes will be used for Packery Channel against his wishes. Mr. Dixon Clements, Executive Officer for the Builders Association, said their membership is supportive of the TIF district and the Packery Channel project. He said it will put in motion a tremendous growth opportunity for the community, meaning new jobs and economic development. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 6 Ms. Marie Speer said the beach erosion is inevitable and she said it would be prudent to wait until the Corps of Engineers' report is completed before proceeding. She noted that the Corps will be holding a scoping meeting on September 7th, and she said that Del Mar has not yet voted on it. Mr. Joe Hall, Pastor of Seabreeze Ministries on Padre Island, said he moved to Corpus Christi because he feels it is a dynamic community and he is supportive of the project. He said he hopes the Council will use good common sense on this issue and not succumb to hysterics. Mr. Gene Guemsey, 7522 Holly Road, said he owns real estate on Padre Island. He said in the weeks after this proposal was first discussed, he sold $200,000 worth of lots on the island to be developed, and much more growth is expected. Mr. Tom Niskala, CEO of the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber has passed a resolution in support of this project, which is important to the community. Ms. Dorothy Spann, member of the Del Mar College Board of Regents, said she has supported the Packery Channel project in the past. However, she said this proposal will cost the college money, which she explained. Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, said the voters in this community have said "no" to Packery Channel, yet the politicians persist in pursuing it. He expressed concern about the legitimacy of the public hearing and the process the Council is following, including the TIF time table. He referred to the Attorney General's handbook on economic development laws for Texas cities regarding the formation of TIFs. He said he believes no formal presentation has been made to the Flour Bluff school district. He said he also thought the ordinance's wording violates the Texas Property Tax Code. City Attorney Bray replied that the "optional" reference in the time table should have been struck. He said the statute does not require the formal hearings to be prior to the public hearing; in fact, the statute has no specific requirement for when the formal presentation will take place. He said the presentation to Flour Bluff will occur on August 31st in full compliance with the Act, as will all the presentations. Mayor Neal pointed out that it is not intended that Flour Bluff ISD be a participant in the TIF, which Mr. Bray confirmed. He added that if the financial forecasts for the TIF district are correct, Flour Bluff ISD will experience a windfall. Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, said he is glad there are so many positive, proactive people speaking out during a Council meeting. He said Corpus Christi has not grown because citizens are not willing to pay the price for that growth. Mr. Alonzo added that this issue should not be addressed from an ethnic standpoint. Ms. Pat Suter, 1002 Chamberlain, said she has been against the dredging of Packery Channel for a long time. She asked whether the city, as a sponsor of the project, will do anything except sell the bonds. Mr. Garcia briefly reiterated the concept of tax increment financing and he added that the city is not obligated in any way other than the sale of the bonds. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 7 Mr. Charles Spencer, 13845 Hawksnest Bay Dr., said he was opposed to the development of the TIF district. He said he and his wife were initially intrigued by the proposal to dredge Packery Channel but now they believe it is a risky project that will only benefit developers, contractors and others in similar fields. He said the TIF concept has been convoluted for other than its original purposes, and he quoted criticisms made about this project. He said it should be put to the voters. Ms. Kay Noyes, 930 Coral, said she is completely opposed to dredging Packery Channel. She said she does not want to see taxes or insurance increase anymore. Ms. Kim Irwin, 13957 Das Marinas, said she is a real estate agent on Padre Island and she was offended by the comments made against realtors. She said realtors spend their money in this community and serve as ambassadors here. She said she is in favor of the TIF district because it will take the burden off the taxpayers, provide new jobs, and stimulate the economy. Mr. Ed Williams, 15622 Three Fathoms Bank Dr., said he is also a realtor on the island and it is clear that unless the city experiences some economic upturn, city services will be affected. He said why not spend federal tax dollars in this community rather than elsewhere. He said hotels and a possible convention center will not be built on the island without some incentive. Mr. Joey Jarreau, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Convention and Visitors Bureau, said this project will have great economic impact on the tourism industry. He said citizens such as he and his wife want to raise their families in a city with great economic potential. Mr. Alex Harris said it is important to deal with the facts about this project. He said the taxpayers said they did not want to spend their money on this project, so the Council found a way to fund this project without using their tax dollars. He said it is very important to move this community forward. Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said he and Ms. Suter have been against the Packery Channel project from the beginning. He said the TIF proposal is a disaster waiting to happen, and he said this is an example of "pork barreling." He said this issue should be placed on the ballot. Ms. Mary Beth Nelson, 2721 Erie Dr., said she is vice -chair of the state board of Common Cause, an organization that tries to hold power accountable. She said there is a problem with erosion of public trust in Corpus Christi, adding that this issue has been twice rejected by the voters. She said there is time to place this issue on the ballot in November. Mr. John Trice, 13706 Tajamar St., said he has been in the banking business on Padre Island for 10 years. He said the creation of the TIF district will provide high-quality development by people who have the money and wherewithal to protect the environment. He said the members of the Padre Island Business Association do not want Padre Island to be a Miami Beach. Ms. Marsha Williams said she and other realtors want Corpus Christi to move forward. She noted that many realtors own property, some of them owning multiple properties. She said people Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 8 leaving Corpus Christi tell the realtors that if Corpus Christi does not move forward, it will move backward. She urged the Council's support of the project. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Cooper, and passed. Mayor Neal asked about the dredging and maintenance issue. Mr. Utter said the estimated total project cost of $30 million includes a $4 million maintenance reserve. He said the Corps will help determine if that amount is sufficient, and he emphasized that they intend to ensure that this project is maintained. Mr. Michael further described the issue of ongoing dredging. Responding to other questions from the Mayor, Mr. Utter said a participating entity does not give up any of the taxes it is now receiving; rather, only the tax increment created by the new private investment would go into the TIF district. Mr. Garcia said they are also anticipating an accelerated increase in the property values in the area, which will be captured. He reiterated that they are not asking the Flour Bluff ISD to participate because of the loss of federal funds that could occur. Mr. Utter said the time period of this program will be determined by the need to pay off the bonds and build up the maintenance reserve. He said they are estimating that to be less than 20 years. He noted that major development on Padre Island will create jobs and economic development activity all across the city and the area. In reply to Mayor Neal, City Secretary Chapa stated that in 1989 the Council approved an ordinance establishing a comprehensive plan for Padre Island. One of the elements of the plan was the development of Packery Channel. He said under the initiative and referendum clause of the City Charter, citizens submitted a petition to the city which included approximately 8,500 signatures. He said his office verified some 6,500 signatures and the ordinance was repealed. Council Member Kinnison referred to the issue raised about a possible burden on the city's General Fund. Mr. Utter explained that the police and fire beats on the island receive fewer calls than in any other portion of the city. He said the proposed TIF district is a compact area close to the police and fire facilities; consequently, he said they do not anticipate additional police and fire services. He said staff will provide a written report about beach cleaning that might be needed. Mr. Utter said the city's bond counsel worked with city staff and ERA to make sure the study met the tests for the bonds. He also described the time frame for receiving the Corps' reports and the bond sale process. Responding to Council Member Scott, Mr. Utter said ERA estimates (conservatively) that an additional $3.6 million in hotel/motel tax revenue will be generated by the increased development, with around $686,000 going into the General Fund from sales tax revenues. Mr. Garcia said that earlier Mr. Leuschel had said this proposal meets the necessary tests. Mr. Utter said the Corps of Engineers will be holding a scoping meeting on September 7th from 7-9 p.m. at the Bayfront Plaza Convention Center, Room 220. He further described the concept of tax increment financing and the issue of how the rolling property line in front of the seawall affected property values there. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 9 Mr. Scott asked whether it is less expensive to pump sand from out in the gulf to renourish the beach in front of the seawall. Mr. Michael said when Galveston had to renourish its beaches, it had to pump in sand from three miles offshore, which was about three times more expensive than it would be to mine the sand adjacent to the beach. Mr. Garcia said that for the Corps to proceed with this project they need a local partner that has the ability to pay for it, which is part of the reason staff is recommending the formation of the TIF district at this time. Council Member Colmenero requested additional information about the police and fire calls on the island. Responding to Mr. Colmenero, Mr. Garcia said nothing they are doing that day changes the tax rate; in addition, almost all of the residential properties have been excluded from the TIF district. Mr. Utter described why it is in the developers' best interest to support this project, and Mr. Garcia discussed the history of TIFs. Mr. Garcia said city staff have been meeting monthly with staff from the Corps regarding specific aspects of the design of Packery Channel. Mr. Colmenero said he took exception to a previous speaker's comment that this project entails selective development. He said this Council has been working very hard to expand possibilities to all areas of the city, and people should not be raising the issue of color. Mayor Neal said that for years a substantial number of citizens have cloaked their "loyal opposition" in the form of mistrust of government. He said on several occasions he has asked those citizens what they would be willing to support, and they do not offer suggestions. He said if they are not in favor of growth, they should just say so. The Mayor also said the long-term benefit of this community is in their hands and they need to put aside those things that divide them in order to create more opportunities. Mr. Scott delineated the many benefits of this project and the steps that need to be taken for it to proceed. He said he thinks this is a good plan and the public should have the opportunity to participate. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 2.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Designating a certain area within the jurisdiction of the City of Corpus Christi as a tax increment financing district to be known as "Reinvestment Zone Number Two, City of Corpus Christi, Texas," establishing a Board of Directors for such Reinvestment Zone, and other matters relating thereto. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales abstaining. Mr. Scott said he thought the public should have 30 to 45 days to provide written comment to the proposal and then let staff develop answers to those questions. Mayor Neal suggested that the second reading of the ordinance be considered at the Council's October 17th meeting. He then called for a brief recess. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 10 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. Ms. Pat Suter complimented the Park and Recreation employees for their efforts in Blucher Park and Suter Park, and she asked them to not tell people to drop off animals in those parks. Mr. Mike Baker, 4641 Gayle Circle, said Heritage Park is a slowly dimming sparkle on the bayfront due to budget constraints. He urged the Council to tour Heritage Park to see the changes for themselves and to direct staff to find ways to address the problems there. Mr. Gregory Boss, 14328 Playa del Rey, discussed the problem of excessive boat speeds and jet ski speeds in Packery Channel, and the desire of the neighbors to have a "no -wake zone" established there. Mr. Bray said that issue could be scheduled for the September 12th meeting. Mr. Jack Gordy said he had suggested in 1997 that prisoners be used to clean the utility poles and remove illegal signs. He said removing the signs is not enforcement; issuing citations for those violations is enforcement. Mr. Byron Wooldridge said that in 1994 and 1995 he suggested that a city -owned co- generation plant could make money for the city, but members of the previous city government called him a liar. However, now a 1,340 mega -watt co -generation plan will be built in this area, and the city of Tampa Bay has shown that desalination is a feasible source of water. He also said he had offered in a letter to Mr. Garcia to study for free the problems the pipeline pumps were having, but he was turned down. Mr. Wooldridge said he does not trust the Council and he will fight any tax increases they want to impose. ************* Mayor Neal referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. The first presentation was made by Mr. Billy Parks, District Engineer of the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). Mr. Parks gave an overview of several current Priority 1 TXDOT projects, including those on sections of the following streets: FM 2444, to rehabilitate the roadway and widen it; FM 1889, to rehabilitate the roadway and add shoulders; Park Road 22, to add travel lanes and shoulders in each direction; SH 286, to install a freeway management system for detection and verification; SH 358, to install a surveillance system for detection and verification; and projects to replace certain bridges and approaches. Mr. Parks and members of the TXDOT staff also answered Council members' questions and discussed other transportation issues, such as I-69, the JFK Causeway, and the Five Points interchange. The second presentation was made by Deputy City Manager Noe regarding the creation of a corporation under Section 4A of the Development Corporation Act of 1979. Mr. Noe explained Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 11 that the 4A corporation, which will officially be called the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation, will oversee the implementation of any and all sales tax initiatives which may be approved by the voters on November 7, 2000. He said the duration of the corporation would run concurrent with the sales tax propositions. Mr. Noe then reviewed two specific articles of the proposed articles of incorporation for the 4A corporation. He said highlights of Article 4 are that it tracks the provisions of the election ordinance, including those on the economic development sales tax; requires funds from each proposition to be accounted for separately; and it empowers the corporation board to develop policies on contracts/recapture provisions subject to the Council's approval. He said Article 9, which deals with the corporation's board of directors, includes the following provisions: five -member board with one-year terms expiring on August 31st of each year; six-year term limits (similar to other city boards); the City Manager is the Executive Director; the City Secretary is the Assistant Secretary; the board elects its own officers; and the board is subject to the open meetings and open records provisions. In conclusion, Mr. Noe said staff is asking that the Council provide direction on the articles of incorporation, after which staff will bring this item back to the Council on September 12th for approval of the articles and appointment of the board. Council Member Garrett said he was under the impression that there would be a board of directors for each of the three sales tax initiatives. City Attorney Bray replied that under the statute there can only be one 4A corporation and one board of directors. Council Member Kinnison asked if the corporation will have a budget. Mr. Noe said the board will approve a budget and submit it to the Council for their approval. Mr. Garcia said anything that goes to the board will be developed by city personnel, who work for the City Council. Mr. Noe said the bonds will be the corporation's debt. Mr. Kinnison suggested that the board members' terms expire on July 31st to coincide with the city's fiscal year. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Bray said all three of the 1/8th cent sales taxes have to be administered solely for the purposes allowed by the act and contained in the ballot ordinance. Dr. Gonzales expressed concern that the five -member board would be responsible for overseeing the activities of the sales tax initiatives for the seawall, multipurpose arena, and job development program. Dr. Gonzales and Mrs. Longoria said they thought the board would deal specifically with job development. A discussion ensued about the role of the 4A corporation and the role of the Economic Development Corporation (which is a separate entity consisting of a 15 - member board). Mr. Garcia and Mr. Bray responded to Council members' questions about several aspects of the 4A corporation. Mayor Neal pointed out that the proposed articles clearly state that the purpose of the corporation is to "undertake, maintain, and finance projects" authorized through Propositions 4, 5, and 6 on the election ballot for November 7, 2000. He said the Council needs to move forward and appoint a board that will be inclusive and made up of people who have an understanding of how those things should and can be done, and who will be good trustees of the funds. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 12 Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 4-20). Council members requested that Items 6, 7, and 9 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: 4. M2000-299 Motion approving a supply agreement for approximately 43,600 hours of temporary custodial services for the Convention Center and Coliseum in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI - 0156 -00 with L.K. Jordan & Associates, Corpus Christi, Texas, based on low bid, for an estimated annual expenditure of $353,160. The term of the contract will be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two additional twelve-month periods, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds are budgeted in FY00-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 5. M2000-300 Motion approving the purchase of fourteen (14) radios with chargers, belt clips and batteries from ComNet Ericsson, Ingleside, Texas, for the total amount of $34,701.50. The award is based on sole source and will be used by the Fire Department. Funds for three of the radios are budgeted under the Fire Department's operating budget as replacements. Funding for the remaining eleven radios are available under the WMD Grant Program. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 8. M2000-304 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for professional services in the amount of $84,700 with Bennett, Martin, Solka and Torno Architects, Inc. for the Senior Community Services Central Kitchen. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 10.a. M2000-305 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $144,290 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division for funding eligible under the FY 1999 Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grants Program and to execute all related documents. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 13 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 10.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024179 Ordinance appropriating $144,290 from the State of Texas, Office of the Govemor, Criminal Justice Division, in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for funding eligible under the FY 1999 Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grants Program; transferring $16,032 from the No. 6010 Law Enforcement Trust Fund and appropriating it in the No. 1050 FederaUState Grants Fund as matching funds. 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." 11.a. M2000-306 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $137,514 and to execute a contract and all related documents with Texas State Library and Archives Commission for the continued operation of the Interlibrary Loan Referral Center located at the Corpus Christi Public Library. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 11.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024180 Ordinance appropriating $137,514 from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for operating the Interlibrary Loan Center by the South Texas Library System, administered by the Corpus Christi Public Library in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 12.a. M2000-307 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $61,385 and to execute a contract and all related documents with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for the continued operation of the Technical Assistance Negotiated Grant Program administered by the South Texas Library System, which is located at Corpus Christi Public Library for the State Fiscal Year 2000-01. 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 August 29, 2000 Page 14 12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024181 Ordinance appropriating $61,385 from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for technical assistance to the South Texas Library System administered by the Corpus Christi Public Library in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants 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." 13.a. M2000-308 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $764,420 and to execute a contract and all related documents with the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for the continued operation of the South Texas Library System located at Corpus Christi Public Library for the State Fiscal Year 2000-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 13.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024182 Ordinance appropriating $764,420 from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission to operate the South Texas Library System administered by the Corpus Christi Public Library in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants 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." 14.a. M2000-309 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to sign a grant agreement with the United States Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation in the amount of $205,065 for site security improvements and enhancement at Choke Canyon Dam. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 14.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024183 Ordinance appropriating $205,065 from the United States Department of Interior Bureau of Reclamation for site security improvements and enhancement at Choke Canyon Dam in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grant Fund. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 15 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." 15. M2000-310 Motion approving an Interlocal Agreement with the Coastal Bend Council of Governments for E9-1-1 Service, PSAP Equipment and Addressing/Addressing Maintenance. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 16. RESOLUTION NO. 024184 Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Mutual Aid Fire Fighting Assistance Agreement between Naval Air Station Corpus Christi and Corpus Christi Fire Department, Corpus Christi, Texas. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 17. RESOLUTION NO. 024185 Resolution approving the dissolution of the Corpus Christi Health Facilities Development Corporation. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 18. ORDINANCE NO. 024186 Ordinance abandoning and vacating a 1,541.72 -square foot portion of a 10 -foot wide utility easement out of Lots A and B-3, Block 1, Paisley Tract; requiring Shelby/Estus Realty Group, the owner of said property, to comply with the specified conditions and replat the property within 180 days at owner's expense. 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." 19. ORDINANCE NO. 024187 Ordinance abandoning and vacating a 1,100 -square foot portion of a 10 -foot wide utility easement out of Lot 15, Block 38, King's Crossing Unit 1, Phase 1 and Lot 17, Section 9, Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 16 Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, requiring Williamson T. Hough, Jr., the owner of said property, to comply with the specified conditions and replat the property within 180 days at owner's expense. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." 20. ORDINANCE NO. 024188 Ordinance ordering a Special Election to be held on November 7, 2000, in the City of Corpus Christi on the questions of authorizing obligations of the City supported by ad valorem taxes and authorizing a sales and use tax pursuant to Section 4A of Article 5190.6, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes; providing for procedures for holding such election; providing for notice of election and publication thereof; providing for establishment of branch early polling places; designating polling place locations; authorizing a joint election with Nueces County; and enacting provisions incident and relating to subject and purpose of this ordinance. 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 6. Council Member Gonzales said he had just received answers to his questions on both Items 6 and 7. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 6.a. M2000-301 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Non -Residential Standard Performance Contract with Central Power and Light for an LED Traffic Signal Changeout Program. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Scott absent. 6.b. M2000-302 Motion approving the purchase of 488 LED traffic signals, 1,165 LED pedestrian signals and kits, 836 LED traffic signal kits, and assorted mounting hardware from the following companies for the following amounts, in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0097-00, based on low bid and low bid meeting specifications. The LED equipment will be installed by the Traffic Signals Division of the Street Department. Funds have been budgeted in FY00-01. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 17 Control Technologies of Texas Tomball, Texas Items 1.1, 1.3, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2, 11 & 12 $535,666.86 ACM Highway Products Round Rock. Texas Items 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0 and 13.0 $173,705.70 Grand Total: $854,371.37 Consolidated Traffic Controls Arlington. Texas Items 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, and 2.0 $137,870.81 Traffic Parts, Inc. Suring, Texas Item 10.0 $7,128 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Scott absent. 7. M2000-303 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Elite Construction Company for a total fee not to exceed $224,180 for the Theodore Merchant "Buddy" Lawrence House Renovation. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Scott absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 9, Bayfest lease. He pointed out inconsistencies in the insurance requirements. Mr. Bray replied that it appeared the item contained both the standard form used by staff for street closures as well as the indemnities included in the Bayfest contract. The Mayor also questioned when workers compensation was pulled from the requirements for people performing work for and on city property. City Manager Garcia said he would withdraw this item to be brought back at a later date. 9. WITHDRAWN ---- •- • -- - - sections for the Bayfcst 2000 Festival, September 29 October 1, 2000. a) Northbound Shorclinc Boulevard (inside lane only), bctwccn westbound Interstate 37 and Ilugh..s Street, frn.i 9:00 a....., Wednesday, Sept -Lail , 20 through 8 00 a...c Friday, September 29 and from 6:00 a.m., Monday, October 2 through 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 4, 2000. b) Southbound Shorclinc Boulevard (full closure), bctwccn wcstbound Interstate 37 and Ilughes Street, f.en. 9:00 a. Wednesday, .npte.nber-20-through 5:00 p.m., c) Northbound Shorclinc Boulevard, (full closure), bctwccn westbound Interstate 37 and Ilughcs Stied, front 8.00 a.m. Friday, September 29 through 6:00 a..tr Mot.day, Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 18 October 2, 2000. • 8:00 a.m. Friday, Septe„ bro 9 thiough 6:00 a.n.,, tvlenday, O,stobcr 2, 2000. (full closures), tach bctwccn Watcr Strcct and N. Shorclinc Boulcvard, from 8:00 a.m., Friday, September 29 through 6:00 a.m., Monday, October 2, 2000. Mayor Neal called for a brief recess. ************* Mayor Neal referred to Item 21, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following zoning case: 21. Case No. 0600-12, C.A. Kaczenski: A change of zoning from an "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to a `B-1" Neighborhood Business District on Alameda Park, Block 6, Lot 29, located on the east side of Everhart Road, between Meridian and Pompano Place. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "B-1" District, and in lieu thereof, approval of a `B -1A" Neighborhood Business District. Mr. Michael Gunning, Director of Planning and Development, gave a brief presentation describing this zoning application. Mayor Neal called for public comment. Mr. Paul Brandes, 4150 Harry, said he and his wife were opposed to this type of business zoning. He said in that area of Everhart Road, properties have been rezoned several times. He said he thought rezoning to "AB" Professional Office District would be a more appropriate zoning for the subject property. Mr. Gunning said the applicant not only wished to open a hair salon, which is allowed under the "AB" zoning, but to also sell hair products to the public, which is not allowed. Consequently, staff was recommending the `B -1A" Neighborhood Business District. He added that the applicant was planning to invest a lot of money in the property, including removing a dilapidated structure and replacing it with a new structure that will be residential in character. Mrs. Nora Govett, 4146 Harry St., said she was not opposed to professional office zoning but to the traffic that currently exists on Everhart Road. She said the neighborhood business zoning would create more traffic. Dr. Gonzales made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mr. Scott, and passed. Responding to Mr. Scott, Mr. Gunning said one of the unique aspects of the "B -1A" zoning is the limitation on the amount of lot area a building can cover (basically 50% of the lot area). He said he thought the `B -1A" zoning would be far more limiting with regard to traffic than many of the "AB" uses because of the limited size of the building. Mayor Neal said this area is similar to the area around Moore Plaza, and he suggested that the Planning Commission look at busy streets such as Everhart Road which are changing from Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 19 residential to commercial uses. Mr. Gunning noted that the `B -IA" zoning has an incentive to limit the number of driveways. Mr. Garrett asked about the zoning of specific lots near the subject property, and Mr. Gunning said they are residential. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 21. ORDINANCE NO. 024189 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by C.A. Kaczenski by changing the zoning map in reference to Lot 29, Block 6, Alameda Park, from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to "B -1A" Neighborhood Business 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, Cooper, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Colmenero and Garrett voting "No"; J. Longoria absent. ************* Mayor Neal referred to Item 22, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following zoning case: 22. Case No. 0600-13. E.V. DeLeon: A change of zoning from an "I-2" Light Industrial District and "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District to a `B-4" General Business District on 2.527 acres out of Forsman Tract, located on the northwest corner of Morgan Avenue and Espinosa Street. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-4" District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Dr. Gonzales made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mr. Scott, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 024190 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by E. V. DeLeon by changing the zoning map in reference to the south 2.527 acres of Forsman Tract out of Lots 1 and 2, J.P. Connell Farm Lots, from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District and "I-2" Light Industrial District to "B-4" General Business 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, and Scott voting "Aye"; J. Longoria absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 20 Mayor Neal referred to Item 23, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following zoning case: 23. Case No. 0700-02, St. Luke's United Methodist Church: A change of zoning from an "A-1" Apartment House District to a "B-1" Neighborhood Business District on Lindale Park Unit 4, Block 36, Lots 1 and 2, located on the northwest corner of McCall Street and Reid Drive. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended denial of the "B-1" District, and in lieu thereof, approval of a Special Permit for an off-site parking lot with a two- year limit subject to five (5) conditions. Mr. Gunning referred to page 306 of the support material and said staff was recommending an amendment to the fourth special permit condition regarding landscaping which would delete the requirement for canopy tree planting. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Mr. Scott made a motion to amend the ordinance as discussed by Mr. Gunning, seconded by Mr. Colmenero, and passed. Dr. Gonzales then made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Ms. Cooper, and passed. Responding to Mr. Kinnison, Mr. Gunning said the landscaping requirement will be 15% of the street yard, excluding the driveways. Mr. Scott asked if the applicants were in agreement with the amendment, and Mr. Gunning said they were. He added that the ordinance allows for a two-year period for the special permit and the applicant has the option of requesting an extension to the special permit. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 024191 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by St. Luke's United Methodist Church by changing the zoning map in reference to Lots 1 and 2, Block 36, Lindale Park Unit 4 (currently zoned "A-1" Apartment House District) by granting a Special Permit for an off-site parking lot, subject to five (5) conditions; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed, as amended, by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; J. Longoria absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal referred to Item 24, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following zoning case: 24. Case No. 0700-04, Koch Petroleum Group L.P.: A change of zoning from an "R -1B" One - family Dwelling District with a "SP" Special Permit, "A-1" Apartment House District', "A- 1" Apartment House District with a "SP" Special Permit, and "B-1" Neighborhood Business Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 21 District to `B-3" Business District on Nueces Bay Heights Extension, Block 25, Lots 1 through 4, and 17 through 20, located on the east side of Nueces Bay Boulevard, between Moore and Minton Streets. City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the "B-3" District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Mrs. Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mr. Scott, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 24. ORDINANCE NO. 024192 Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Koch Petroleum Group, L.P. by changing the zoning map in reference to Lots 1 through 4 and 17 through 20, Block 25, Nueces Bay Heights Extension, from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District, "R -1B" One - family Dwelling District with a "SP" Special Permit, "A-1" Apartment House District, "A-1" Apartment House District with a "SP" Special Permit, and "B-1" Neighborhood Business District to "B-3" Business 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, and Scott voting "Aye"; J. Longoria absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 25, graffiti control. City Secretary Chapa stated that members of the Junior League, a proponent of this action, were present earlier but had to leave to attend another meeting. There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Garrett said that when this ordinance was originally drafted a few years ago (when he served as Police Chief), they carefully avoided the very changes staff was recommending. Mr. Garcia said staff's intention was to balance the need for an incentive to remove graffiti while also protecting the rights of property owners. He noted that a citizen whose property has been vandalized with graffiti has the choice of removing the graffiti himself or allowing a volunteer organization to remove it for him at no cost. He said if at some point in the future the volunteer programs are no longer in existence, the penalties would also cease. Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Garcia and Mr. Tony Cisneros, Director of Park and Recreation, described how the public will be informed about this program. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 25. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Amending the City Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 33, Offenses and Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 22 Miscellaneous Provisions, Article VI. Graffiti Control, by holding property owners responsible for the removal of graffiti from their property; providing for criminal prosecution for failure to remove graffiti from their property; allowing the City, after reasonable notice, to remove the graffiti if the property owner fails to do so; 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." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 26, amending the election ordinance. Mr. Cisneros said this was the final list of proposed land being recommended for sale. He described some amendments staff was recommending, including adjustments to the acreage amounts and that the parcel previously referred to as Parkview Park was actually Crestmont Park. Council Member Gonzales referred to the map of Meldo Park, and Mr. Cisneros said single- family residences are located on one side of the park and church property is located on the other side. Mr. Bray said he thought that area was zoned "R -1B." Council Member Colmenero made a motion to amend Item 26 as recommended by staff, seconded by Council Member John Longoria, and passed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 26. ORDINANCE NO. 024193 Ordinance amending the election ordinance adopted on August 29, 2000 (ordering a Special Election on November 7, 2000) to add a ballot proposition for sale of certain park land An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed, as amended, by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye." * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 27, prescribing the taxes to be levied. Mr. Jorge Cruz- Aedo, Director of Financial Services, said this is the adoption of the tax roll and it is very close to staffs projections in the budget. There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Gonzales referred to the table of General Obligation bonds and interest maturing August 1, 2000 -July 31, 2001. He noted that the principal is $8.1 million and the interest and fees are $11.1 million, which Mr. Cruz-Aedo confirmed. He said staff is always looking at ways to lower the city's interest costs. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 27. ORDINANCE NO. 024194 Prescribing the taxes to be levied, assessed and collected by the City of Corpus Christi, Texas Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 23 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 second reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; B. Longoria absent. ************* Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 28, approving the 2000 tax levy. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 28. M2000-311 Motion approving the 2000 Tax Levy of $47,727,872 based upon the adopted tax rate of $.623726 per $100 valuation in accordance with Section 26.09(e) of the Texas Property Tax Code. 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 29, concessionaire agreement. Mr. Garcia explained that the city had a five-year agreement with Noble Food Service for the concessions at the Bayfront Plaza Convention Center and Memorial Coliseum. He noted that the city is in the midst of a major renovation of the convention center and one of the consultant's recommendations was to go to an exclusive catering agreement for the convention center. He said one of the provisions of those contracts is to require that the successful concessionaire participate in the finish -out and capital improvement of the building. Mr. Garcia said since they are not yet at that point in the construction schedule, staff's intent is to extend the existing concessionaire contract for one year until staff can go out for an exclusive long-term contract. Council Member John Longoria said he has constituents who are interested in bidding on this contract, even if it is only for one year. He added that Noble Food Service has not been receptive to certain situations and he would not support the proposed extension of Noble's contract. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Garcia and Mr. Hal Peterson, Director of Convention Facilities, pointed out that the whole character of the concession agreement may change not only because of the convention center expansion but also because of the possible addition of an arena. Dr. Gonzales said he thought staff should request new bids now rather than extending this contract. Council Member Scott asked what would be the downside of bidding it out for one year. Mr. Garcia replied that staff believes the city would receive less money for a one-year contract because any new concessionaire would have to purchase the equipment to provide the services. Mr. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting August 29, 2000 Page 24 Scott asked if Noble is a local company, and Mr. Peterson said it is. In reply to Council Member Kinnison, Mr. Peterson described some of the equipment required and the time table for the convention center. Council Member Colmenero said he thought staff's proposal was feasible. Following additional discussion, Mr. Garcia said staff would do whatever Council directed them to do, but he would rather spend the time developing a long-term contract than preparing to go out for bids for a one-year contract. Mayor Neal called for comments from the audience, and there were none. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes: 29. FAILED Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 022393 to cxtcnd the Bayfront Plaza Convention Ccntcr and Memorial Coliacum Conccsaionairc Agreement with Noble Food Service, Inc. for a period of one year (January 1, 2001 to January 1, 2002). The foregoing ordinance failed to pass by the following vote: Colmenero voting "Aye"; Neal, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "No"; Cooper and B. Longoria absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia noted that the Corps of Engineers will be holding a public scoping meeting on September 7th at 7 p.m. at the convention center. He added that the Legislative Weekend is scheduled to begin September 15th, and the next Council meeting will be held September 12th with a workshop beginning at noon. The Mayor asked if the proposal to raise the level of Lake Corpus Christi, as recommended by Freese & Nichols, requires any action on the part of the Council. Mr. Garcia said it will require approval by the TNRCC. The Mayor then called for Council concerns and reports. Mr. Garrett asked that Police Sgt. R.L. Garcia and Sgt. Kelly Isaac be recognized for their efforts in the investigations of the recent gang -related shootings. Dr. Gonzales asked that city staff be available to assist Council members with questions at public meetings. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the Council meeting at 8:20 p.m. on August 29, 2000. * * * * * * * * * * * * *