HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 10/10/2000I 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 October 10, 2000, which were approved
by the City Council on October 17, 2000.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 17th day of October, 2000.
(e914n—,
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
2:00 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr.
Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper
Council Members:
Javier D. Colmenero
Rex A. Kinnison
Betty Jean Longoria
John Longoria
Mark Scott
ABSENT
Henry Garrett
Dr. Arnold Gonzales
Ci y 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. E.F. Bennett, following which the Pledge of Allegiance
to the United States flag was led by James Rocha, a member of the Young Marines. 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 September 26, 2000 (rather than September 29th as stated on the agenda).
A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to the board and committee appointments on the day's agenda, and the
following appointments were made:
Sister City
Mufid A. Abudiab
Judy Benkendorfer
Andrew Boyd
Jesus Rosales
John Wright
Lamar Ynostroza
Board of Adjustment
Robert Broadway
John Martinez (Alternate)
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 2
Mr. Gene Pasahow, 4018 Kingston, said he is manager and vice president of the Senior
Softball League. He invited the Council members to participate in the league's second annual
tournament benefitting Toys for Tots on November 18th. He said there are 13 people over 70 years
old who want to play against the Council, as well as several other teams participating.
Mr. Joe Dees, 4617 McGregor, said he owns Statewide Wrecker Service. He said that several
months ago he had proposed an increase in the fees for rotation wreckers. He said the last time they
received a fee increase was 12 years ago. However, he said the city raised the storage fee from $7.50
to $15, which benefitted the city and penalized the citizens.
City Manager Garcia replied that in response to concerns that were raised, staff conducted
a survey of towing rates in different communities in Texas and determined that Corpus Christi's rates
were comparable to those in other cities. As a result, the Police Department (which regulates that
service) recommended that there be no change in rates at this time. Council Member Kirmison asked
that that memo be redistributed.
Mr. John Rocha, president of the parent organization for the Corpus Christi Young Marines,
invited the Council members to a casino night on October 20th benefitting the Young Marines,
which teaches leadership skills to youth from 8 to 18 years old.
Mr. Jack Gordy, 310 Norton St., said Forward Corpus Christi, the organization formed to
promote the bond issue and sales tax initiatives, should have spent their campaign funds for printing
political signs and other expenses in Corpus Christi. He also contested a memo from Police Chief
Alvarez regarding enforcement of the ordinance banning consumption of alcohol in city parks,
saying that ordinance is not consistently enforced.
Mr. Leon Perez, 904 Buford, said his utility bill went from $34 to $42 last month and he
questioned the reason for the increase. Mayor Neal asked a staff member to analyze Mr. Perez's
utility bill for him.
Mr. Irving Dietz, 455 Miramar, said that on September 12, 2000 the Council approved an
ordinance appropriating $13.9 million for several items, including certain street improvements
contained in the capital improvement plan. He said the agenda information stated that action
completed the 1986 bond program. However, some of the street projects were not included in the
1986 bond program, such as Cornett Drive and Ocean Drive. Mr. Dietz questioned whether other
projects will be built other than those listed in the 2000 bond program.
Mr. Kinnison replied that bond elections are necessary because the city's revenues are not
sufficient to fund all the needed capital improvements. He said the funds approved by the voters in
1986 were only used for those projects approved at that time; other projects have subsequently been
undertaken through other funding sources. Mr. Scott pointed out that the ballot language for the 2000
bond issue specifically lists the proposed projects and prohibits the funds from being spent on non -
listed projects. Mr. Kinnison added that the items in this proposal have to be substantially completed
in three years because there are other capital projects which have to be addressed in the future.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 3
Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, read a letter written 15 years ago which stated that the
Corpus Christi Taxpayers Association favors an efficient, honest and healthy respect for the public
interest on the part of city government. He said they also favor the orderly planned growth of the city
that will benefit the entire community. However, he said the city government favors developers and
realtors and is inefficient. Mayor Neal asked Mr. Hasker if that is the official position today of the
Taxpayers Association. Mr. Hasker replied that he was defending the name of the Taxpayers
Association, which wants honest government but does not feel they are getting it. He said the city
receives enough money for its capital improvements just with utility revenues.
Mr. Jimmie Till, 6034 Lost Creek, said he is a lifetime citizen of this city and he supports the
bond election. He also thanked the Mayor for participating in a recent bicycle ride event. Responding
to Mr. Till's question, the Mayor said the bicyclists did not ride over Harbor Bridge.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to the presentation on the day's agenda regarding the request for
proposals for the Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park area. City Manager Garcia explained that the city
is currently in the process of a major expansion of the Bayfront Plaza Convention Center and the
November 2000 ballot contains a proposed 1/8th cent sales tax increase to construct a multipurpose
arena to be located near the convention center and operated in tandem with that facility.
Mr. Garcia said there are a number of additional high-profile uses for that area of the city.
He said city staff has met with officials from the Port of Corpus Christi Authority and the South
Texas Institute for the Arts regarding their projects. In addition, he said city staff has updated a
request for proposals that they previously distributed to the Council which will solicit development
teams for a specialty retail development in the center of that area.
Assistant City Manager Tom Utter referred to a detailed map of the Bayfront Arts and
Sciences Park area, as well as the port area. He noted that the Solomon P. Ortiz International Center
at the port has just opened and the port is proposing to locate a new water taxi next to it with a
walking connection underneath Harbor Bridge. He said the Museum of Science and History's new
exhibit and expansion will be open next year.
Mr. Utter also said that the South Texas Institute for the Arts is planning to expand its facility
and is proposing to lease additional city property as well as approximately two-tenths of an acre of
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' (COE) property. The port is actively pursuing with the COE the
purchase of their property for a possible additional cruise ship dock east of Harbor Bridge. Mr.
Garcia noted that very large cruise ships cannot fit under Harbor Bridge and the additional dock
would accommodate those ships while still utilizing the Ortiz Center at the port.
Mr. Utter pointed out on the map several blocks of land that may be acquired in the future,
and he said an additional major pump station will be needed at the intersection of Fitzgerald and
Water streets. He also referred to the site for the proposed arena if it is approved by the voters next
month. That site is bounded by Mesquite, Chaparral, Brewster, and Hughes streets.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 4
In the area near the intersection of IH -37 and Shoreline, there is the new federal courthouse
and the CVB and Chamber of Commerce, both of which will eventually be relocated. He said the
offramp from Hwy. 181 onto Broadway will be closed by the Texas Highway Department and the
offramp onto Power Street will be changed to allow for a more gradual exit from Hwy. 181. He also
mentioned the amphitheater being planned by Mr. Dusty Durrill and the eventual closing of the
Broadway Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Mr. Utter said the port has also preliminarily considered extending Tancahua Street to the
cruise ship terminal and developing that area. In addition, the port has an agreement with TXDOT
regarding the area under the Harbor Bridge. The Museum of Asian Cultures is completing its second
phase and the Visitors Center has been very popular. He said the architects and consultants for the
convention center (and hopefully also for the arena) will be looking at how those facilities will tie
in with the other attractions in the Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park.
Mr. Garcia added that one of the only viable ways to make the most out of the marina
property is to engage in a joint venture with a private developer, and staff would like to develop a
request for proposals for the marina. Mr. Garcia and Mr. Utter then responded to Council members'
questions. Mr. Garcia pointed out that the land for the arena and for the expansion of the convention
center is currently under city ownership, and the parking areas are under public ownership of some
type (city, port or COE). He added that there are opportunities for more intensive development in
the area of the COE property, which he and Mr. Utter further explained. They also discussed use of
the existing barge dock in front of the convention center. Mr. Garcia said the timing of the
development of that area is contingent upon the sale of the COE property. Mr. Utter noted that they
would also like to make Port Avenue a major roadway into and out of the Bayfront Arts and Sciences
Park and surrounding areas.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 3-16). An audience
member requested that Item 4 be withheld for discussion. City Secretary Chapa said that Item 13.b.
needed to be amended. He then polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed:
3. M2000-353
Motion approving a supply agreement with Gonzalez Tire Company, Corpus Christi, Texas
for field tire repair service in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0102-00 based on low
bid meeting specifications for an estimated annual expenditure of $165,802. 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 have been budgeted by Maintenance Services and the Fire Department in FY00-01.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 5
5. M2000-355
Motion approving a supply agreement with Stewart & Stevenson Services, Inc., Corpus
Christi, Texas for general use automotive type filters in accordance with Bid Invitation No.
BI -0003-01 based on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $50,000. The term of
the supply agreement will be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two
additional twelve-month periods, subject to the approval of the supplier and the City
Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by Maintenance Services and the Fire
Department in FY00-01.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
6. M2000-356
Motion approving the purchase of network servers in the amount of $39,742 from Business
Integrators, Inc. of Houston, Texas through the Qualified Information Systems Vendor
(QISV) program of the State of Texas. Funds have been budgeted by MIS, Museum, Legal
and Gas Departments.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
7. M2000-357
Motion approving purchase of one year Master Licensing Agreements for Novell NetWare
Operating System, Novell GroupWise and Novell ZENWorks through Department of
Information Resources (DIR), Austin, Texas in the amount of $117,671.47. The licensing
agreements are purchased in accordance with the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing
Program. Funds have been budgeted by MIS in FY00-01.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye", Garrett and Gonzales absent.
8. M2000-358
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with
Reese Contracting for a total fee not to exceed $73,777 for the Miscellaneous Storm
Drainage Improvements (Weber Road and Brett Street).
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 6
9. M2000-359
Motion authorizing the acquisition of Parcels 17, 18, 22 and 23 out of Artemus Roberts
Subdivision, all located between Violet Road and McKinzie Road north of State Highway
44, from the owner Lyondell Petrochemical G.P. on behalf of Equistar Chemicals, LP for
$33,400 in connection with the Southside Water Transmission Main Project - Stevens Plant
to Clarkwood Road and for other municipal purposes.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
10.a. M2000-360
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No. 2 to the
contract for consulting services with the Center for Coastal Studies in the amount of $53,672
for Ecological/Biological Monitoring of Treated Wastewater Diversions in the Rincon Delta
and Nueces Bay.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
10.b. M2000-361
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No. 2 to the
contract for consulting services with the Conrad Blucher Institute in the amount of $86,286
for On -Going Salinity Monitoring in the Rincon Delta and Nueces Bay.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
10.c. M2000-362
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Amendment No. 2 to the
contract for consulting services with the University of Texas Marine Sciences Institute in the
amount of $110,953 for biological monitoring of the effects of wastewater effluent diversions
on primary and secondary production in the Rincon Delta and Nueces Bay.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
10.d. M2000-363
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for consulting
services with Alan Plummer and Associates, Inc., of Austin, Texas, in the amount of $45,920
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 7
for analysis, evaluation, and report preparation required by Texas Natural Resources
Conservation Commission discharge permit related to the Wastewater Effluent Diversions
in the Rincon Delta and Nueces Bay.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
11.a. ORDINANCE NO. 024243
Ordinance appropriating $1,738,199 from Federal Aviation Administration Grant No. 3-48-
0051-31-00 in the No. 3020 Airport Capital Projects Fund; appropriating $34,000 in
Passenger Facility Charges (PFC) in the No. 4621 PFC Fund for the Airport Commercial
Apron.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
11.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024244
Ordinance appropriating $95,958 from Federal Aviation Administration Grant No. 3-48-
0051-31-00 in the No. 3020 Airport Capital Projects Fund; all funds will be used for a new
Airfield Lighting Control System and other improvements in association with the new
Federal Aviation Administration Control Tower.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
11.c. M2000-364
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an engineering contract in
the amount of $104,530 with IMDC, Inc. of Houston, Texas for Airfield Lighting
Improvements.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
12.a. M2000-365
Motion approving the reimbursement application submitted by Hossein Mostaghasi, owner
and developer of Brighton Village Unit 8A, for the installation of 620 linear feet of an off-
site 8 -inch PVC sanitary sewer collection line and replacement of an existing manhole
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 8
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024245
Ordinance appropriating $55,929.71 in the No. 4220 Sanitary Sewer Trust Fund to pay the
reimbursement request of Hossein Mostaghasi for the installation of 620 linear feet of an off-
site sanitary sewer collection line and replacement of an existing manhole to develop
Brighton Village Unit 8A Subdivision.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, 13. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
14.a. M2000-366
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept two grants from the Corpus
Christi Health Foundation providing for portable equipment for the dental program and
recording and presentation equipment for the health education program in the respective
amounts of $22,000 and $6,500.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
14.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024248
Ordinance appropriating $28,500 from the Corpus Christi Health Foundation in the No. 1050
Federal/State Grants Fund for portable equipment for the dental program and recording and
presentation equipment for the health education program.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
15. ORDINANCE NO. 024249
Ordinance appropriating $15,000 from the Blanche Moore Foundation in the No. 6010 Trust
Fund -Youth Sports for the expenses of the Corpus Christi Magic Blanche Moore Baseball
Team; amending Ordinance No. 024130 which adopted the FY00-01 Budget, by adding
$15,000 to the No. 6010 Trust Fund -Youth Sports.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 9
16. ORDINANCE NO. 024250
Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute five rent -a -car concession lease
agreements with Pagan -Lewis Motors dba Budget Rent-A-Car of Corpus Christi, Inc.;
Coastal Bend Rent-A-Car, Inc. dba Avis Rent-A-Car; Mar Jean Texas, Inc. dba Hertz Car
Rental; National Car Rental of Corpus Christi, Inc.; and Southwest - Tex Leasing Co., Inc.
dba Advantage Rent-A-Car for operation of a rent -a -car concession at Corpus Christi
International Airport in consideration of payment of the greater of a guaranteed minimum
concession fee or ten percent of the concessionaire's gross monthly revenues for a term of
18 months with a month to month holdover period thereafter terminating on the date of final
completion of the new airport terminal facility.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero,
Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales
absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 4, wrecker service.
Mr. Joe Dees, owner of Statewide Wrecker Service, said he has had this contract in the past
and it would be more cost-effective to have one vendor rather than two. Mr. Mike Barrera, Director
of Materials Management, said the reason the city divided the contract into two was because vendors
said they were not equipped to provide all the necessary services under one contract. Mr. Garcia
noted that the city has a wide variety of vehicles (from large garbage trucks to small sedans) and the
towing contract has to accommodate all the uses. Responding to Council Member Kinnison, Mr.
Barrera discussed the "mix" of vehicles. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
4. M2000-354
Motion approving supply agreements with the following companies, for wrecker service for
City owned vehicles and equipment in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0001-01 based
on low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $58,985. The term of the contract shall
be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two additional twelve-month periods,
subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have
been budgeted by Maintenance Services and the Fire Department in FY00-01.
Holly Towing Service
Corpus Christi, Texas
Group I
$42,360.00
Galvan Super Towing
Corpus Christi, Texas
Group II
$16,625.00
Grand
Total:
$58,985.00
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 10
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 13, Omaha Drive street improvements. City Secretary
Chapa said that on Item 13.b. the date of the public hearing needs to be changed from November 28,
2000 to November 21, 2000 because there is no Council meeting on November 28th. Council
Member Colmenero made a motion to amend Item 13.b. as stated, seconded by Council Member
Betty Jean Longoria and passed (Garrett and Gonzales absent). Mr. Chapa polled the Council for
their votes as follows:
13.a. RESOLUTION NO. 024246
Resolution determining the necessity for and ordering the improvement of the following
highway in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas for the Omaha Drive Street
Improvements: Omaha Drive from I.H. 37 to Leopard Street, specifying that certain of these
improvements will be paid for partly by the City and partly by assessments while others will
be paid for entirely by assessment; and directing the City's Director of Engineering Services
to file a Notice of Proposed Assessment with the Nueces County Clerk.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison,
B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
13.b. RESOLUTION NO. 024247
Resolution approving plans and specifications for improvements to the following highway
in Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas for the Omaha Drive Street Improvements: Omaha
Drive from I.H. 37 to Leopard Street, approving the Director of Engineering Services'
Project Construction Cost Estimate including an estimate of the portion of costs to be paid
by the City and the portion to be paid by assessments' setting a public hearing on these
proposed assessments to occur during the November 21, 2000 City Council Meeting;
directing the City Secretary to arrange to publish notice of public hearing;, and ordering the
Director of Engineering Services to provide written notice of the public hearing to property
owners.
The foregoing resolution passed, as amended, by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero,
Cooper, Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales
absent.
Mayor Neal called for a brief recess.
*************
Mayor Neal deviated from the regular agenda and opened discussion on Item 19, education
revenue bonds. He called for comments from the audience.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 11
Dr. Maria Luisa Garza explained that they received a very favorable interest rate for their
project and, as a result, will be able to construct the entire project. City Secretary Chapa polled the
Council for their votes as follows:
19. RESOLUTION NO. 024252
Resolution of the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas approving the issuance
of up to $6,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of City of San Antonio, Texas, Higher
Education Authority, Inc., Education Revenue Bonds (Dr. Maria Luisa Garza Academy of
Transitional Studies Charter School Project), Series 2000 by the City of San Antonio, Texas,
Higher Education Authority Inc. for the Dr. Maria Luisa Garza Academy of Transitional
Studies Charter School located in the City of Corpus Christi.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison,
B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 17, proposed multipurpose arena project. City
Manager Garcia said staff has gone through the process of evaluating arena managers and they are
recommending negotiating a contract with SMG for management of the arena, contingent upon the
outcome of the November election.
Deputy City Manager Noe gave a brief computer presentation about the selection of the arena
management firm. He said use of a private management firm, which was a recommendation of the
PKF study, adds technical expertise plus leverage for bookings. In addition, early selection of the
firm allows for public information for voters as well as pre -opening design input by the firm.
Mr. Noe said the scope of services includes the following: planning and programming; design
review; pre -opening operations tasks; furniture, fixtures and equipment recommendations;
advertising and naming services; and facility management. He said the request for proposals were
issued on August 28, 2000 and two proposals were received on September 15, 2000 from the two
most established firms in the industry --SMG and Global Spectrum. He said the selection committee
consisted of the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, Acting Assistant Engineer, and Director of the
Convention Center.
Mr. Noe said staff contacted facilities across the country which were operated by both SMG
and Global Spectrum. He said other city officials told them there is a distinct advantage to having
a vendor with regional connections to provide enhanced bookings. He noted that SMG operates three
facilities in El Paso and four in Houston; SMG also has pre -opening contracts in Laredo and
Beaumont. Mr. Noe stated that there is no financial impact at this point, and if this action is approved
by the Council, it will allow staff to negotiate an agreement with SMG for both the pre -opening
services and the long-term management agreement.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 12
Mr. Justin White said SMG is the largest facility management company in the United States
with 112 facilities (31 convention centers, 47 arenas, 19 theaters, 9 stadiums, and 6 others). He said
many of the facilities they manage are located in the south and southwest. For instance, in Houston
alone SMG manages the Astrodome, Astrohall, and Astroarena, as well as the new NFL stadium and
the new exposition center there.
Mr. White described the work of the management company during the pre -opening process,
including preparing a marketing and financial analysis, five-year operating proforma, and a pre-
opening budget. He said during that time they will also work with the major tenants, such as the
IceRays and Texas A&M University -Corpus Christi, and possibly sign such long-term contracts as
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. He discussed the importance of marketing the facility
before it opens, and he noted that there were 467 events booked by the time they opened the
Pontchartrain Center in Louisiana.
Mr. White listed several entertainment acts which played during the last month in 10,000 -seat
or less arenas, including Elton John, Luis Miguel, Tim McGraw, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Faith Hill,
Marc Anthony, Juan Gabriel, Britney Spears, Stone Temple Pilots, Counting Crows, and many
others. He also said one of the largest promoters in the country, who manages such acts as Faith Hill
and Tim McGraw, has committed to bring some of his acts to the Laredo arena once it is completed.
The promoter said if he can bring well-known acts to Laredo he can also bring them to Corpus
Christi, thus taking advantage of SMG's leverage regarding bookings.
Mr. White said SMG has over $4 billion worth of development experience during the last
seven to eight years. He also stated that there is currently enough parking around the downtown site
of the proposed Corpus Christi arena to accommodate attendees. Mr. White also listed several family
shows that have appeared in their facilities, including ice skating, rodeos and wrestling. He said that
in a three-day period one facility had a hockey game, a rodeo, and an ice skating show, which reflects
the versatility that is possible. He noted that the cost of the Bosier City facility, opening next month,
was $35 million (excluding the land) with 10,000 permanent seats and 2,000 retractable seats.
Responding to Council Member Colmenero, Mr. White said promoters of entertainment acts
and family shows prefer to have venues located fairly close together. In addition, Laredo will have
its own WPHL hockey team which will provide for a good rivalry with Corpus Christi. Mr. White
said naming rights, advertising and other issues are negotiable. Mr. Garcia said prior to coming
before the Council with their recommendation, staff conducted extensive reference checks on the
two facilities managers' existing contracts, and every person they talked to said they were very
satisfied with their contracts.
Council Member Scott requested a copy of the acts that have performed in SMG's facilities
around the country. Replying to a question from Mr. Scott, Mr. White said the contract can be
incentive -based or a flat fee with an incentive tied to it. He added that they have to be careful not to
affect the tax-exempt status of the bonds. Mr. Scott commented on arena football, which Mr. White
said is very popular now, as is wrestling. He also briefly discussed how they would schedule events
in the arena while accommodating the needs of the primary tenants.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 13
Council Member Kinnison said this multipurpose arena would still be needed even if the
IceRays no longer played here, since there are many other events that could be held in the arena. He
said the information Mr. White is providing can be passed along to the citizens prior to the election.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
17. RESOLUTION NO. 024251
Resolution selecting SMG as the contractor for Planning and Management Services for the
proposed Multipurpose Arena, and directing the City Manager to undertake negotiations with
SMG to complete an agreement for such services.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison,
B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 18, cable television franchise. There were no
comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
18.a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance granting to TCI Cablevision of Texas Inc. an acceptance of an agreement relating
to the cable television franchise granted in Ordinance No. 16133, as amended, to extend said
franchise for six months in consideration of TCI providing a franchise fee payment to City
of five percent and based upon consideration of requirements relating to the transfer of the
franchise to Texas Cable Partners, L.P.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Cooper,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Colmenero, Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
18.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance authorizing transfer of a cable television franchise from TCI Cablevision of
Texas, Inc. to Texas Cable Partners, L.P., subject to requirements.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Cooper,
Kinnison, B. Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Colmenero, Garrett and
Gonzales absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal announced the executive session (Item 20), pursuant to Texas Government Code
Section 551.071 regarding the claim of Gilbert Burgus et al, with possible discussion and action
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 14
related thereto in open session. The Council went into executive session. The Council returned from
executive session. Mayor Neal made the following motion, which was seconded by Council Member
Cooper. He called for a voice vote and it passed as follows:
20. M2000-367
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute documents settling the claim of Gilbert
Burgus et al by purchasing the home located at 7101 Edgebrook in Corpus Christi, Texas,
for $115,000, as recommended by the City's attorneys.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Kinnison, B.
Longoria, J. Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Garrett and Gonzales absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia said there are four presentation
items scheduled for the October 17th Council meeting: the Planning Commission's update, parking
enforcement program, drought management plan and water pass-through, and the quarterly update
on the Wesley Seale Dam project. He added that there will be no Council meetings on the following
dates: November 7th (first Tuesday of the month), November 28th (close to Thanksgiving),
December 5th (first Tuesday), and December 26th (close to Christmas). Mr. Garcia said the
canvassing of votes from the November 7th election will be conducted on November 13th at 10 a.m.
In addition, regular Council meetings will be held on November 14th, November 21st, December
12th and December 19th. The first meeting in 2001 will be held on January 9th.
Mayor Neal noted that the "State of the City" address will be given on October 16th at the
Bayfront Plaza. He requested that Mr. Angel Escobar, Director of Engineering Services, give the
Council an update on the 1986 bond program during the next Council meeting on October 17th. He
said the Council should also look at the water issue, and he asked for an update on the city's
legislative agenda. Mr. Utter said he could provide that during the November 14th meeting. The
Mayor said Mr. Escobar had given the Council a memo dated August 17, 2000 regarding possible
revisions to the street renaming process. He said the Council was supposed to get more information
in September and he noted that there is another request to rename a street. He also requested an
update on the remodeling/construction of the new senior center at the Garden Center location. He
then called for Council concerns and reports.
Mr. Colmenero forwarded tickets to the Council for the event benefitting the Young Marines,
and he requested an update on the leaking water situation at City Hall.
Mr. Scott said a TEX-21 meeting will be held on October 13th in Corpus Christi, and he
asked about new trigger points for the water levels. Mr. Garcia said there is a study currently
underway regarding the reservoir levels and the impact of the Mary Rhodes Pipeline. Mr. Scott asked
if the Council could extend the period for accepting public comment on the proposed tax increment
financing district on Padre Island through the end of October. Mayor Neal noted that Congress is still
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
October 10, 2000
Page 15
working on the financing of the bill so it would be premature for the Council to take any action at
this time. There was consensus of the Council to extend the public comment period as requested by
Mr. Scott. He also suggested that the Council pass a resolution in the near future tying the living
wage rate to the jobs development program.
Mr. Longoria asked about the street renaming memo. He said political conflicts among
Council members will result if they make it easier for citizens to request that a street be renamed.
Mr. Garcia said when the issue came up some time ago, it became apparent that part of the problem
was the amount of work that has to be done by staff in securing the names of all the property owners
along the affected street. City Secretary Chapa said the fee that is charged to the applicant is very
small compared to the amount of work that is required. Mrs. Longoria said she did not think it was
the city's responsibility since an individual or group was requesting the name change. Mayor Neal
suggested that staff send the August 17th memo back to the Council.
Mr. Longoria said there is a problem with people parking on sidewalks at businesses that
front on South Padre Island Drive. Mayor Neal said that is also a problem in neighborhoods. City
Attorney Bray said that at the least that practice violates state law in obstructing a passageway. Mr.
Longoria said the city has an ordinance banning mobile (temporary) signs and there is a proliferation
of colored mobile signs. Mr. Norbert Hart, Director of Housing and Community Development, said
some signs are permanently anchored and are legal, on -premise signs. He said staff will be enforcing
the temporary sign violations.
Mr. Longoria also said the city received a $350,000 grant from the Justice Department but
only $170,000 is available for distribution to non-profit agencies. He said the common practice has
been that an agency only use 10% of grant funds to administer a program, but the city is spending
52% of the grant funds on administration. Mr. Tony Cisneros, Director of Park and Recreation, said
there are two distinct functions: administrative and program. Mr. Longoria said the city keeps
$180,000 of the grant and adds $50,000 from CDBG funds, for an actual total of $230,000. He asked
about the Safe Haven sites, and Mr. Cisneros said the city works with 14 such sites. He said he
would provide more information on the Safe Haven sites. Mr. Garcia said staff can schedule a full
presentation on the Weed and Seed program at the next Council meeting. There was consensus of
the Council to receive a presentation on that issue.
Mrs. Longoria said some residents along Ocean Drive place brush and trash in the bicycle
and jogging paths, which creates a hazard. She also suggested that a complete history of the city's
revenues be included in the presentation next week about the 1986 bond program. Mr. Scott said his
goal in next week's bond presentation is to show that the items the voters approved are either
completed or are being constructed at this time.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the
Council meeting at 5:15 p.m. on October 10, 2000.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *