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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 01/30/2001I 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 January 30, 2001, which were approved by the City Council on February 13, 2001. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 13th day of February, 2001. / Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 2:10 p.m. PRESENT Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr. Mayor Pro Tem Betty Jean Longoria Council Members: Javier D. Colmenero Melody Cooper Henry Garrett Dr. Arnold Gonzales Rex A. Kinnison John Longoria ABSENT 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 Father Bob Dunn, Most Precious Blood Catholic Church, following which the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member John Longoria. City Secretary Chapa called the roll and verified that the necessary quorum of the Council and the required charter officers were present to conduct the meeting. Mayor Neal called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of January 23, 2001. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented. * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience. * Dr. Bill Farmer, 622 Atlantic St., said he was representing the New Hearts Transplant Support Group, which assists all persons who have received a major organ transplant. He said he received a new heart three years ago. He noted that there are no transplant facilities in Corpus Christi, so a vast majority of transplant patients go to Galveston, Houston or San Antonio. Dr. Farmer said the city's health insurance requires that the procedure be performed in Dallas. He urged the Council to direct staff to address that situation. City Manager Garcia said the Council will be reviewing the city's health care plan at their next meeting on February 13th. Mr. Jack Ussery, 6234 Norchester, encouraged people to join the Purple Martin Society (at no charge) and to pick up plans to build a bird house for the Purple Martins at the Gulf Coast Humane Society. He said the Purple Martins come here every year from South America. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 2 Ms. Dorothy Kucera, 4637 Wilma, said people are working to raise $2,019,000 for the expansion and renovation of the Art Center on Shoreline Drive. She said the center received a $195,000 grant from the Meadows Foundation for the project, and the balance they need to raise is $163,000. She said they are grateful for the Council's support. Mr. Jack Gordy, 310 Norton St., said that in the last 12 months, no one has been prosecuted in Corpus Christi for violation of the Highway Beautification Act and the city's highway beautification ordinance. He said the city sent a letter to the Regional Transportation Authority on November 9, 2000 regarding signs in the rights-of-way in violation of the state law. He said he counted 40 signs off Crosstown Expressway between Gollihar and Leopard that are violating the law. Mr. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, said he was speaking on behalf of Forward Corpus Christi. He thanked the City Manager and senior staff for their efforts on the bond issue last November. He said Forward Corpus Christi is an inclusive group interested in the city's economic development and they will continue to monitor the city's progress on the bond projects. * * * * * * * * * * * ** Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 28, creation of the Committee for Persons with Disabilities. City Secretary Chapa explained that the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities asked the Mayor to consider establishing, through ordinance, a Committee for Persons with Disabilities which can advise the Council on related issues. Mayor Neal called for public comment. Mr. Dick Johnson, Vice -Chairperson of the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities, thanked the Council for considering creating the new standing committee. Mr. Jon Harwood, Parliamentarian, also spoke in favor of forming the new committee. Mayor Neal noted that the committee would serve as an advisory body to the Council and the City Manager regarding issues affecting persons with disabilities in Corpus Christi. He said it will consist of nine members serving staggered terms. He thanked the members of the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities for their input. Responding to Council Member Gonzales, Mr. Chapa said the whole Council will be voting on the members of the new committee, as established in the ordinance. He added that the Chairperson of the committee will be a voting member of the Human Relations Commission and the Building Official of the city will be an ex -officio, non-voting member of the new committee. Council Member Colmenero commented favorably on this proposal. Dr. Gonzales suggested that a representative of the Park and Recreation Department serve as an ex -officio member to ensure that accessibility issues in parks and recreational facilities are addressed. Mayor Neal said the Council could pass the ordinance on first reading and have the Mayor's Committee meet with Mr. Chapa regarding possible amendments (such as Dr. Gonzales' suggestion) prior to the second reading. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 3 28. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Ordinance providing for the creation of the Committee for Persons with Disabilities and its purpose, membership, rules, powers and duties. The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading as follows: Neal, Colmenero, Cooper, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Scott absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. The first presentation was the quarterly update on the spaceport effort. Mr. Ray Covey, Director of Economic Development Programs for Texas with AEP, explained that this effort was begun in 1998 because of a request for qualifications from Lockheed Martin. He said they have set their sights on a particular company, Space Access LLC, which appears to have the necessary technology to satisfy the needs of the future. Mr. Covey said the Texas Aerospace Commission (TAC) and other entities have identified three potential sites in Texas to locate a spaceport: Fort Stockton, Brazoria County, and in Kenedy County 60 miles south of Corpus Christi. He said the South Texas Spaceport Consortium, comprised of organizations spanning over 10 counties, has been formed to support the South Texas site. The consortium's board of governors consists of several city and county elected officials and representatives from higher education institutions, economic development corporations, and other entities. He also announced that "Spaceport Day" will be held in Austin on February 21st. Mr. Covey said that in order for Texas to successfully compete for a spaceport site, the TAC is requesting $3.1 million to allow the three spaceport authorities to conduct environmental impact studies, spaceport licensing, and other studies in anticipation of being selected as a site. In addition, there is a request to establish a trust fund for spaceport activities. Mr. Covey then responded to questions from Mayor Neal and other Council members. He said the consortium has engaged Olivarri and Associates to help prepare for the "Spaceport Day" in Austin, and the board will meet this week to finalize the plans. He said Space Access has indicated their interest in a Texas spaceport site and the consortium has been working with them, but other companies are developing technology and could be potential users of a spaceport as well. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The second presentation was regarding options for a third golf facility. Mr. Tony Cisneros, Director of Park and Recreation, said that during their retreat in May 1999, the Council identified the need for a third golf facility and later that November, request for interest packets were sent to golf facility development teams. Based on that information, in July 2000 request for proposal (RFP) packets were sent to 20 development teams, but no responses were received by the October 10, 2000 due date. He said some of the concems raised by the development teams included the location of the proposed golf course on 300 acres near the J.C. Elliott Landfill, which is still in operation, and the Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 4 inability of the city to guarantee the use of treated effluent for irrigation. Using a computer presentation, Mr. Cisneros then described the following options: light the executive nine -hole course at the Gabe Lozano Golf Center; build an additional nine holes at the Oso Beach Golf Course; build a third golf facility at the Cayo del Oso city property; purchase an existing daily fee golf facility if offered for sale; build a third golf facility at a location that is yet to be purchased; wait and build a third golf course at the Elliott Landfill after it closes; maintain the status quo with both existing golf facilities; or perform a market analysis/feasibility study to assess possible options for the city to pursue. Mr. Cisneros responded to several Council questions and comments on each of the options. With regard to the use of effluent as irrigation, City Manager Garcia said the city is holding discussions with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission regarding the use of treated effluent as part of the city's required water releases. Council Member Gonzales said there are ways to design a golf course without the need for extensive irrigation. Mr. Cisneros said at one time there was a possibility of using donated land in the northwest area, but it was tied to an unsuccessful proposal for a factory outlet center. Council Member Betty Jean Longoria asked about a possible site near the airport, and Mr. Garcia said staff can look into it. Council Member John Longoria asked staff to also follow up on the northwest site. Dr. Gonzales noted that the sport of golf is a money -making industry, and he said staff needs to illustrate the financial benefits associated with the various options. Mr. Cisneros said that the city's golf centers are run as enterprise operations; i.e., whatever monies they bring in are used to pay for those facilities. He noted that currently there is a golf surcharge to raise funds to build a third golf facility. There has been discussion about using those monies to improve the existing golf facilities or establishing an additional surcharge for needed capital improvements. Mr. Cisneros then discussed the following funding options: utilize the current golf surcharge revenues, which average $100,000 per year and total approximately $300,000 to date; establish an additional golf surcharge of $1 to $2 per golf round; or utilize a future bond issue (the funding amount would be dependent upon the number of proposed golf facility projects). He said staff is asking that the Council allow them to issue requests for proposals to firms which specialize in golf market analyses and feasibility studies. Mayor Neal referred to the option of building an additional nine holes at the Oso Beach Course, and he asked how the city could fund that project. Deputy City Manager Noe said the city could use a certificate of obligation, in which case the city would use the revenues from the enterprise fund to pay back the bonds, but there is also the secondary pledge of the property taxes, which does not require voter approval. Mr. Noe said the second option would be to use a revenue bond, but there may be difficulty in obtaining a feasibility study to show the bond holders that this is a viable project. A brief discussion ensued about building the additional nine holes and making the Oso Beach facility a first-class course at an estimated cost of $1.5 million. Mr. Garcia said the plan would involve increasing the golf surcharge to pay the annual debt service on the bonds. Mr. Cisneros discussed the current fees and surcharges. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 5 Council Member Kinnison questioned the need to hire a firm to conduct a market analysis and prepare financial information; he said the city can do that internally. He also said he was interested in the construction of a third golf facility. Dr. Gonzales said the city should approach this as a major economic development project and have experts determine what the golfing needs are in Corpus Christi. He said they also need to seek the input of local golfers and golf associations. Mr. Longoria said that adding holes to either of the two existing courses creates more wear and tear on them. He also said he believes city staff has the capability of preparing the market and financial information. Mr. Noe said if the city was to issue bonds for a project based on revenues generated from the facilities, the city would need an outside feasibility study to present to the bold holders and rating agencies. He said if the city owned the land already or it was donated, a new golf facility would cost $4 million to $6 million Additional discussion ensued. Mayor Neal said there appeared to be a consensus of the Council that they were not interested in the following options: lighting the executive course at Lozano; purchasing an existing golf facility; or waiting to build a golf course at the landfill after it closes. They were in agreement about looking into the options of building a facility at the Cayo del Oso or on other purchased or donated land, or building an additional nine holes at Oso. The Mayor asked staff to bring proposals back to the Council for a vote at their next meeting on February 13th. Dr. Gonzales said he did not want to completely rule out lighting the executive course at Lozano. ************ The third presentation was the quarterly update on the 2000 Bond Issue projects. Mr. Angel Escobar, Director of Engineering Services, explained that the presentation referred to Items 5-13 on the day's consent agenda. He said he would be addressing the first eight contracts (Items 5-12), consisting of public health and safety, park and recreation, and museum improvements. He noted that the architectural and engineering contracts were all awarded to local firms. Mr. Escobar said staff explained these projects in detail to the City Major Projects Advisory Committee, as well as to the architects and engineers, affected city departments, and local architectural associations. He pointed out that staff has compiled extensive engineering standards which were distributed to the Council. Mr. Escobar referred to graphs illustrating the time lines for each of these bond projects and he responded to Council members' questions. Mayor Neal called for a brief recess. Upon reconvening, Mr. Kevin Stowers, Acting Assistant Director of Engineering Services, introduced Mr. Raymond Gignac of Gignac & Associates; Andrew McLean of Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates (TVS); and Bernardo Forte -Brescia of Arquitectonica (ARQ). Utilizing a computer presentation, Mr. Gignac said that for the last two years his firm has been following the planning for the convention center expansion and arena construction. He said they are aware of the goals and vision for the city and they recognize that this is an opportunity to redefine the Corpus Christi bayfront. As a result, they sought to assemble a design team with the best Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 6 credentials. Mr. Gignac said TVS is a nationally recognized leader in convention center design, with over 30 projects to date. They have waterfront master planning experience in such cities as Savannah, Mobile, Long Beach, and San Juan, and their firm consists of over 260 design professionals. In addition, TVS has experience with convention centers in San Antonio, Arlington, Lubbock, and Irving. Mr. Gignac said ARQ, an internationally renowned architecture firm, has been involved with the newest and most innovative arenas and stadia, including in Miami, Atlanta, New York, and Sao Paulo. ARQ also has waterfront design experience, having completed projects in Miami, San Juan, and San Francisco, and their Texas projects include the Houston Convention Center Hotel and the Dallas White Rock Development. Mr. Gignac said his firm has 25 years of experience in Corpus Christi. He said they have an understanding of constructability issues and experience with multi - consultant projects. Mr. Gignac also described the credentials of Sasaki Associates (in association with Robert Gignac of Corpus Christi), the landscape architects; and Walter P. Moore and Bovay Engineers (in association with Govind & Associates). Using photographs and drawings, Mr. McLean of TVS and Mr. Forte -Brescia of ARQ described several projects they have completed in various cities. Mr. Forte -Brescia described the key site issues of Corpus Christi's convention center and arena: four-sided site (waterfront, downtown, highway, and Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park); interacts with the waterfront; includes approaches from the downtown area; has a presence via the highway and Harbor Bridge; and participates in the vision of the Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park. Other issues that have to be addressed are concealing the loading areas and assessing parking options. Mr. Forte -Brescia said key building issues are: convention center expandability; sense of arrival; interior and exterior renovation; and visual connection to Corpus Christi Bay. He said TVS and ARQ will explore connections between the convention center and the arena, and in the construction of both they will incorporate applicable hurricane codes, address the waterfront condition, and create a sustainable design. He added that the teams will also address phasing the development in order to ensure continuing operations. He discussed the firms' familiarity with multiple bid packages and the importance of small and local business participation. Mr. Escobar then responded to questions from the Council. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 5-27). No items were withheld for discussion. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 5. M2001-026 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract with Chuck Anastos Associates, Inc. for a total fee not to exceed $67,558 for the Renovation of Senior and Recreation Facilities (Bond Issue Project No. B-1). Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 7 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 6. M2001-027 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract in the amount of $69,816 with ArchitecTKO for the Renovation of Senior and Recreation Centers (Bond Issue Project No. B-2). The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 7. M2001-028 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an engineering services contract in the amount of $87,664 with Urban Engineering, Inc. for Outdoor Sports Facilities - Irrigation (Bond Issue Project No. B-3). The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 8. M2001-029 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an engineering services contract in the amount of $37,500 with Shiner Moseley and Associates for the Renovation/Development of the following existing parks: (Bond Issue Project No. B-5) a. Los Encinos Park b. Parker Park c. South Bluff Park d. St. Andrews Park The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 9. M2001-030 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract in the amount of $50,010 with Bright + Dykemas Architects, Inc. for the Renovation and Development of the following existing parks: (Bond Issue Project No. B-6) a. Nueces River Park b. Oak Park c. Surfside Park d. West Guth Park Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 8 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 10. M2001-031 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an engineering services contract in the amount of $28,800 with Turner Engineers Inc. for the Museum of Science and History Fire Suppression System and Museum HVAC System (Bond Issue Project No. B-7). The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 11. M2001-032 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract in the amount of $122,014 with Roots/Foster Associates for the following projects: a. Mustang Island Fire Sub -Station (Bond Issue Project A-1) b. ADA and Coed Improvements at Fire Stations (Bond Issue Project A-1) c. Health Department Roof Repair (Bond Issues Project A-1) d. Bayfront Convention Center/Selena Auditorium Roof Repairs (not a G.O. Bond Issue project). The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 12. M2001-033 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract in the amount of $261,725 with Bennett, Martin, Solka & Tomo for the Animal Control and Vector Control Facility (Bond Issue Project No. A-2) The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 13.a. ORDINANCE NO. 024348 Ordinance appropriating $583,600 from the anticipated revenues from the 2% Hotel Occupancy Tax; amending Ordinance No. 024130 which adopted the FY00-01 Budget by adding $583,600 to the Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund, transferring $583,600 to and appropriating in the No. 3180 Convention Center Capital Improvement Program Fund to begin the Bayfront Convention Center Expansion and Rehabilitation Project; amending Ordinance No. 024162 which adopted the FY00-01 Capital Budget by adding $583,600 to the No. 3180 Convention Center Capital Improvement Program Fund. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 9 An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 13.b. M2001-034 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an architectural services contract in the amount of $4,476,850 with Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback and Associates, Inc. for the multi-purpose arena and Bayfront Convention Center Expansion and Rehabilitation projects providing that $1,383,600 is currently authorized with the remaining balance of $3,093,250 being authorized only upon appropriation of funds. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 14. M2001-035 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with Union Pacific Railroad Company in the amount of $33,804 to facilitate the construction of Gate No. 2 of the Storm Surge Protection Gate Rehabilitation/Replacement Project by allowing the removal and replacement of railroad tracks. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 15. M2001-036 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Post Construction Lease with Phoenix Demolition for the Nourishment of Corpus Christi Beach Project to allow the right of access for the removal of 126,000 cubic yards of sand from the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 16. M2001-037 Motion authorizing the acquisition of Parcel 1 located on Holly Road for the Force Main Repair and Replacement Project (Line B) - Hardwick Drive to Wooldridge Road for $17,673 from the owner, Fred J. Raible, Trustee. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 10 17. M2001-038 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Change Order No. 1 for an additional amount not to exceed $22,550 with Mitchell's Unlimited of Robstown, Texas for a total restated amount of $77,800 for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant: Primary and Secondary Basins No. 3 and No. 4 Flocculator Equipment Rehabilitation. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 18. M2001-039 Motion approving the purchase of two trailer mounted water pumps from Air Specialty & Equipment Company, Corpus Christi, Texas, in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0071- 01, based on low bid, for a total of $29,400. The pumps will be used by the Water Department and are replacements to the fleet. Funds are available through the FY00-01 Capital Outlay Fund. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kirmison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 19. M2001-040 Motion approving a supply agreement with Borden Milk Products LLC, Austin, Texas, in accordance with Coastal Bend Council of Governments Bid Invitation No. CBCOG-01-2, for 118,537 half-pint containers of milk consisting of homogenized milk, buttermilk, low fat milk, low fat chocolate milk and skim milk, based on the recommended award submitted by the Coastal Bend Council of Governments for an estimated six-month expenditure of $22,177.94. The term of the agreement shall be for six months with an option to extend for up to three additional months, subject to the approval of the Coastal Bend Council of Governments, the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted by Senior Community Services in FY00-01. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 20. M2001-041 Motion approving supply agreements with the following companies, for the following amounts for treating approximately 4,800 tons of sludge de -watering polymers for an estimated annual expenditure of $47,697.60 in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0018- 01, based on low bid. The term of the supply agreements will be for twelve months with an option to extend for up to two additional twelve-month periods subject to the approval of the supplier and the City Manager or his designee. Funds have been budgeted in FY00-01 by the Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 11 Wastewater Department. Polydyne, Inc. Norcross. GA Broadway Treatment Plant $10,406.40 Cytec Industries, Inc. W. Patterson. NJ Oso and Allison Treatment Plants $37,291.20 Grand Total: $47,697.60 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 21. M2001-042 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract with Clean Harbors Environmental Services, Inc. for the Household Hazardous Waste Disposal services at the J.C. Elliott Landfill. These services will be rendered on an "event" basis, four (4) times per year and funded by the Storm Water Department. The estimated annual expenditure for this service is $90,000. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 22. RESOLUTION NO. 024349 Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit a grant application to the Texas State Energy Conservation Office in the amount of $200,000 for conversion of 12 Solid Waste collection vehicles to liquefied natural gas fuel. The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 23.a. M2001-043 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $133,900 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, for funding available for continuation of a project to prevent minors from purchasing and consuming alcohol and to execute all related documents. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 23.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024350 Ordinance appropriating $133,900 from the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, in the No. 1050 State and Federal Grant Fund to implement a project to prevent minors from purchasing and consuming alcohol. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 12 An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 24. M2001-044 Motion approving the purchase of 10 Eventide digital instant recall recorders from VistaCom, Hillsboro, Texas, in accordance with the State of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program for the total amount of $17,950. The Police Department will use the equipment in the 911 Emergency Communications Center. Funds are provided through the Police General Fund FY00-01 Budget. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 25. M2001-045 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a professional services contract with Texas A & M University - Corpus Christi. The focus of the evaluation will be on outcome measures of the Weed and Seed Projects. The evaluation will include measures of juvenile delinquency, crime, unemployment, welfare, child abuse, dropout, and other school measures. The cost of the evaluation will not exceed $25,000. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 26. ORDINANCE NO. 024351 Ordinance changing the name of Belden Street to Concrete Street between North Tancahua Street and the west end of Belden Street. The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 27. ORDINANCE NO. 024347 Ordinance ordering a General Election to be held on April 7, 2001, in the City of Corpus Christi for the election of mayor and eight council members; 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; enacting provisions incident and relating to the subject and purpose of this ordinance. An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 13 Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 29, Rincon Bayou project. City Attorney Bray explained that the city has proposed to the Nueces Estuary Advisory Committee that in return for the city implementing the Rincon Bayou project, all pass-throughs of water would cease, without implementation of any drought management measures, when levels reached 50% of the reservoir system capacity. Mr. Bray reviewed the current agreed order with the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC), which states that when water impounded in the reservoir system is less than 70% of storage capacity, a target amount of 97,000 acre-feet is to be delivered to the Calallen Monitoring Station or the Nueces Delta according to set targets for each month. In addition, releases from reservoir system storage shall not be required to satisfy the targeted inflow amounts. He said when the level reaches less than 40%, pass-throughs may be reduced to 1,200 acre-feet if the city implements Condition II of the drought plan. In the month the level reaches below 30%, pass- throughs may be reduced to zero if the city implements Condition III. Mr. Bray then reviewed the conditions of the drought management plan. Mr. Bray said the proposed revision to the agreed order states that the city will restore the Rincon Overflow Channel and evaluate and (if possible) implement improved hydrology measures. The steps involved are to purchase the necessary easements and land, obtain the permits, and proceed with construction. He said the city will also design, permit, and construct a delivery system (pipeline) to transport 2,000 to 3,000 acre-feet per month of water from the Calallen pool directly to the Upper Rincon Bayou area. The amount transported will not exceed actual pass-throughs required in a particular month. Mr. Bray said that the proposal also calls for the city to design, fund and implement a long- term monitoring plan and for the city to automatically implement specific demand -reduction measures, depending on the reservoir levels. In return, pass-throughs would be limited to 1,200 acre- feet per month when the reservoir system is between 40% and 30% of capacity, and pass-throughs would be eliminated when the system is at 30% of capacity. Mr. Ed Garana, Water Superintendent, described the location of the proposed pipeline to the Rincon Bayou. Mr. Bray and Mr. James Dodson, Deputy Executive Director of the Nueces River Authority, responded to Council members' questions. Mr. Bray said the lowest reservoir level was 25.5% in 1996. He also discussed the beneficial effects of the Mary Rhodes Pipeline. Mr. Dodson said the additional firm yield from this proposal is estimated to be 3,000 acre-feet per year, and their goal is to reach an agreement with TNRCC by April. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 29.a. M2001-046 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Contract Amendment No. 1 to contract between HDR Engineering, Inc. and the City of Corpus Christi (Motion No. M2000-011) to provide professional engineering services to assist City efforts on the Rincon Bayou Project, not to exceed $130,000. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 14 The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 29.b. M2001-047 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a professional services contract with The Kleberg Law Firm for land acquisition services in connection with the Rincon Bayou Project, at the rate of $175 per hour for principal attorneys, $65 per hour for paralegals, and $260 per day for landmen, plus expenses. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. 29.c. M2001-048 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a professional services contract with attorney Tim Brown to provide legal services in connection with proceedings at the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission regarding the Rincon Bayou Project, and to provide legal advice and document preparation services in connection with administrative agency, intergovernmental and legislative matters affecting the City's water interests, at the rate of $140 per hour, plus expenses. The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Colmenero, Garrett, Gonzales, Kinnison, B. Longoria, and J. Longoria voting "Aye"; Cooper and Scott absent. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia said the next Council meeting is scheduled for February 13th and items to be discussed include health insurance, street renaming policy, and golf course options. He reported that there was a break in a line at the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant and staff notified TNRCC and repaired the break. Mr. Escobar further described the incident. Mr. Garcia also announced that Assistant City Manager Jorge Garza was retiring from the city and his last day will be January 31, 2001. Mayor Neal called for Council concerns and reports. Responding to Mr. Garrett, Mr. Garcia said fewer and fewer veterinarians have wanted to participate in the city's licensing program; he added that he will provide a detailed report. Dr. Gonzales noted that the National League of Cities Congressional City Conference will be held in Washington, D.C., on March 9-13, 2001. He asked if the Council could change the meeting date from March 13th so the Council members would not have to leave that conference early. City Secretary Chapa said that Council Members Melody Cooper and Betty Jean Longoria had indicated that they would be returning on March 12th. Mayor Neal asked Mr. Chapa to poll the Council members who will be attending the conference and determine whether that Council meeting needs to be rescheduled. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting January 30, 2001 Page 15 Dr. Gonzales also asked whether the new security company had started working at City Hall. Mr. Garcia said staff will check on the actual start date of the contract. Dr. Gonzales suggested that prior to the Council elections in April, they consider holding an economic summit with such entities as the Port of Corpus Christi Authority, Texas A&M University -Corpus Christi, Del Mar College, the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Economic Development Corporation, and others. Mayor Neal said he thought that was a good idea and he noted that there is a limited time to hold such an event prior to the election. Responding to Mr. Longoria, Mr. Cisneros explained that there was a 14 -foot strip of land that was identified as excess park land in the November election that should not have been identified. He said South Bay Park was donated to the city at two different times and that strip of land was contained in the second donation. Mr. Longoria also commented on the carpet that will be used in the Frost building renovation. Mr. Escobar replied that an addendum to the bid was sent out stating that the city will accept substitute brands of carpet if they are of equal quality. Mr. Longoria also asked if fire stations contain sprinklers. Mr. Garcia said there are fire stations that were built 30 years ago in compliance with the building codes in effect at that time, but staff will check on their status. However, more recently constructed buildings comply with the current codes. Mrs. Longoria thanked staff for their participation in public meetings regarding the Omaha street improvements and the opening of a sports bar in the northwest. She also referred to a letter written by Mr. John Morales in which he made several offensive remarks. Mayor Neal said he has given a copy of that letter to the City Attorney and the City Manager and he wants to know what they can do about it. Dr. Gonzales asked staff to recommend ways to assist airport customers, particularly senior citizens, with the distances they have to walk in the terminal. Mr. Garcia said he spoke with the airport staff about vehicles that are used to transport people within airports. He said Corpus Christi's airport has narrow corridors but staff is reviewing different options. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the Council meeting at 6:18 p.m. on January 30, 2001. *************