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.
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