HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 11/20/2001I 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 November 20, 2001, which were approved
by the City Council on December 11, 2001.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, this 1 lth day of December, 2001.
SEAL
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
r
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
2:05 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Samuel L. Neal Jr.
Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Noyola
Council Members:
Brent Chesney
Javier D. Colmenero
Henry Garrett
Bill Kelly
Rex A. Kinnison
John Longoria
Mark Scott
City Staff:
City Manager David R. Garcia
Deputy City Manager George Noe
City Attorney James R. Bray Jr.
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Recording Secretary Rachelle P. Ramon
Mayor Neal called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The invocation
was delivered by Rev. Melissa Nelson, Wesley United Methodist Church, and the Pledge of
Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Kelly. 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 November 13, 2001. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 2-14). Council members
and an audience member requested that Items 8, 9, 12 and 13 be discussed. City Secretary Chapa
polled the Council for their votes and the following were passed:
2. M2001-428
Motion approving the purchase of one prisoner transport vehicle from the Houston -Galveston
Area Council of Governments (HGAC), for the total amount of $33,487.36. The award is
based on the Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with HGAC. This vehicle will be used by
the Police Department. Funds are available through the 1999 Law Enforcement Block Grant.
This item is a replacement to the fleet.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
3. M2001-429
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a maintenance agreement
with Avnet Enterprise Solutions, Austin, Texas for hardware and operating system
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 2
maintenance and support on the City's Cisco network equipment in accordance with the State
of Texas Cooperative Purchasing Program for a total amount of $50,427.81.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
4. M2001-430
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a maintenance and licensing
agreement with SHI-Government Solutions, Austin, Texas for Novell NetWare Operating
System, Novell GroupWise and Novell ZenWorks in accordance with the State of Texas
Cooperative Purchasing Program for a total amount of $64,619.61.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
5. M2001-431
Motion approving a supply agreement with Ferguson Enterprises, Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas
for approximately 2,974 ductile iron mechanical joint, flanged and swivel fittings and
approximately 5,100 related accessories in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0017-02,
based on total low bid for an estimated annual expenditure of $31,031.80. The term of the
contract is for twelve months with options to extend for up to two additional twelve-month
periods, subject to the approval of the contractor and the City Manager or his designee.
These items are purchased into the Warehouse Inventory and charged out to the Water and
Wastewater Departments.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
6. M2001-432
Motion authorizing the acquisition of Parcel 8b, out of Lot 19, Block 7, Saratoga Place
Subdivision in the amount of $28,000 from the owner, Greg Voisin, Trustee in connection
with the Lift Station Improvements and Carolyn Heights Diversion to Greenwood
Wastewater Treatment Plant - 30" line project.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
7. M2001-433
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with
Rabalais Electric Constructors in the amount of $1,184,690 for the wastewater microwave
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 3
communication system.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
10.a. M2001-436
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a renewal Weed and Seed
grant in the amount of $175,000 for Site I North for the continued support of the Weed and
Seed Program from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
10.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024664
Ordinance appropriating $175,000 from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice
Programs, in the No. 1050 Federal/State Grants Fund for the continued support of the Weed
and Seed Program, Site I North, for FY2001-2002.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
11.a. M2001-437
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with The
YMCA of Corpus Christi, Northside Outreach Program to provide $10,000 from the
FY2001-2002 Weed and Seed Program to implement a Youth Summer Basketball and
Swimming Program.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
11.b. M2001-438
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the Park
and Recreation Department to provide $6,574 from the FY2001-2002 Weed and Seed
Program to implement a Summer Transportation Program for recreational opportunities to
youth, teens and young adults at non-traditional times. It is intended to provide transportation
and entry fees for some field trips during the summer.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 4
11.c. M2001-439
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with the Park
and Recreation Department to provide $17,000 from the FY2001-2002 Weed and Seed
Program to implement a Summer Super Sports Program.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
11.d. M2001-440
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with South
Texas Institute for the Arts to provide $13,000 from the FY2001-2002 Weed and Seed
Program to implement Prevention through the Arts programs.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
11.e. M2001-441
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an agreement with Metro
Ministries Inc. to provide $10,000 from the FY2001-2002 Weed and Seed Program to
enhance the Gabbard Memorial Health Room. The program is a primary care medical clinic
for residents of the shelter and our homeless population.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
14.a. M2001-442
Motion to amend prior to Second Reading to provide for an effective date and for consent
of franchisee.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
14.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024667
Ordinance granting to Texas Cable Partners, L.P., a six-month extension of the cable
television franchise granted in Ordinance No. 16133.
The foregoing ordinance passed on second reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
__. — r-
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 5
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 8, depository contract, and asked for an explanation.
Mr. Jorge Cruz-Aedo, Director of Financial Services, explained that due to state statutes, the city
solicits a depository services agreement that not only meets the city's operational needs but also
addresses its fiscal affairs. He said staff went through the pre-bid process with all the local banks
advising them of the expected service levels, which includes automated processing of the utility
billing functions. He said a local bank submitted an alternative bid which did not provide the
services the city was seeking. Responding to Council Member Scott, Mr. Cruz-Aedo said there is
no automated lock -box processing center in Corpus Christi, which is why bills are sent to San
Antonio. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
8. M2001-434
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a depository contract with
Frost National Bank to provide depository services for City funds.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 9, collection of delinquent accounts. Responding to
Council Member Colmenero, Mr. Cruz-Aedo said there are a large amount of miscellaneous
delinquent liens. He said this is an enhancement of the previous collection efforts. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
9. M2001-435
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a contract for the collection
of delinquent special assessments, demolition, and weed lien accounts with Linebarger,
Heard, Goggan, Blair, Graham, Pefia & Sampson, LLP, for a fee of 25% of principal and
interest collected on delinquent accounts turned over to law firm, plus a $10.00 fee for
preparation of liens and reimbursement of incurred recording fees.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
*************
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 12, sidewalk accessibility improvements, and he
asked staff to provide information. Mr. Angel Escobar, Director of Engineering Services, explained
that $400,000 for sidewalk accessibility improvements for the disabled was approved by voters in
November 2000. These funds are to be leveraged against $880,000 the city will receive from the
Metropolitan Planning Organization for a total amount of $1.28 million for ADA improvements for
the Weber, Santa Fe and Alameda street projects. He said there was also enough money to include
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 6
the Staples Street project, which was recommended by the Committee for Persons with Disabilities.
He said this will be a Texas Department of Transportation project, which will be bid in May 2002
and take about one year to complete. He said the project will include construction of the ADA ramps
at each of the affected intersections and new sidewalks where needed.
Mayor Neal asked if the lawsuit is still pending against the city, and City Attorney Bray
replied that it is. Mr. Escobar said South Staples Street, which is included in this project, was one
of the streets listed in the lawsuit. Council Member Kinnison spoke in favor of the project. In
response to Council Members Noyola and Colmenero, Mr. Escobar further explained the locations
of the improvements. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
12. RESOLUTION NO. 024665
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute an advanced funding
agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) in the estimated amount
of $240,900 for construction of barrier -free ramps and sidewalks at selected street locations
associated with the sidewalk accessibility improvements project.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 13, right-of-way (ROW) use agreement. City
Secretary Chapa noted that a substitute ordinance was submitted by staff.
Mr. Lewis Lovelace, 1549 Casa Grande, said he has been parking at Airheart Point and
fishing in the bay there for over 50 years. He said it is a popular place to fish and he suggested that
concrete steps be constructed on the bluff leading to the water. Mr. Lovelace also expressed concern
about some of the specified conditions of the proposed agreement and the size of the parking area.
Council Member Longoria said it is not Dr. Michael Mintz's responsibility to build any steps
on the bluff there because it is the city's property and not his. He said when this issue first came
before the Council, the most important issue was not cutting off public access to the bay at that
location, which has been resolved. Mr. Escobar said staff is looking into acquiring grant funds to
construct steps there and preliminary field work has been completed for that. He added that whether
or not this project proceeds, the storm drain outfall will receive needed improvements.
Responding to a question from Mr. Longoria, Mr. Michael Gunning, Director of Planning,
said the adopted plan for this area identified these vistas as opportunities to create public open
spaces; however, the plan said they should be minimized so as not to attract large groups of people.
For that reason and since there are residential properties abutting both sides of Airheart Point, staff
was recommending only enough paved space to accommodate six to eight cars. In addition, locating
the paved area closer to Ocean Drive and installing lighting will assist the police in monitoring the
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 7
vicinity. Mr. Gunning pointed out that currently people use Dr. Mintz's property to scale the bluff
to get to the water's edge. He said the lot will include a concrete, ADA -accessible space so disabled
persons can move from the parking area to the rest area. He also noted that there is a line of
demarcation beyond which the land becomes less stable and more erosion occurs. Mr. Longoria said
he would like some stairs to be constructed on that bluff in the future.
Council Member Garrett asked about long-term access to the bayfront there. Mr. Escobar said
that access area is to remain open to the public. The only time it would be closed would be
temporarily for repairs. Council Member Colmenero asked about public parking signage. Mr.
Escobar said staff can consider that idea. Mr. Colmenero suggested that the concrete section around
the rest area be extended to the bluff where the stairs will eventually be located.
Council Member Scott asked about ADA issues concerning the steps. Mr. Escobar said that
Mr. David Ramos, the city's ADA Coordinator, is looking into it. Mr. Gunning said that due to the
topographical features of some areas (such as a bluff), it is technically unfeasible or imprudent to
install an ADA feature. He said staff will obtain that determination in writing.
Council Member Chesney made a motion to amend Item 13 to substitute the ordinance
presented by staff; the motion was seconded and it passed unanimously.
Mr. Lovelace suggested that the proposed design be reversed by placing the rest area closer
to the street so it can be used by pedestrians and placing the parking area closer to the bluff. Mr.
Gunning said that cars parked near the street will alert police to the presence of people in that area.
Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
13. ORDINANCE NO. 024666
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a right-of-way (ROW)
maintenance and use agreement with Dr. Michael L. Mintz (permittee) to construct, at his
expense, a parking lot, landscaping and other public improvements in an undeveloped
portion of the Airheart Point public street right-of-way (Alta Plaza on the Bay Subdivision)
that abuts the property owned by the said permittee; with specified conditions.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed, as amended, by the
following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and
Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
Mayor Neal referred to Item 15, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing to consider vacating and abandoning a 4,261 -square foot portion of a 50 -foot wide
street right-of-way on Purl Place, north of the Robert Drive street right-of-way. There were no
comments from the audience. Council Member Scott made a motion to close the public hearing,
seconded by Council Member Chesney and passed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council:
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 8
15.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024668
Ordinance vacating and abandoning a 4,261 -square foot portion of a 50 -foot wide street
right-of-way on Purl Place, north of the Robert Drive street right-of-way; requiring the
owners, Dr. and Mrs. Robert W. Madry Jr. and Mrs. Ann C. Yeager, to comply with the
specified conditions and replat the property within 180 days at the owners' expense.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to Item 16, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing on the following zoning case:
16. Case No. 1001-06, Kate Haltom: A change of zoning from "A-1" Apartment House District
to an "AB" Professional Office District on Bayview Addition, Block 1, Lots 1 and 2, located
on the southwest corner of Buford Street and Ocean Drive.
City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the
"AB" District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Colmenero
made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Kinnison and passed. Mr.
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 024669
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Kate Haltom by changing the zoning
map in reference to Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, Bayview Addition, from "A-1" Apartment House
District to "AB" Professional Office District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account
for any deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to Item 17, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing on the following zoning case:
17. Case No. 1001-08. Cloudcroft Land Ventures. Inc.: A change of zoning from "R -1B" One -
family Dwelling District to "A -I" Apartment House District, 7.66 acres of land out of Lots
9, 10, and 11, Section 10, Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, located on the
north side of Yorktown Boulevard, approximately 550 feet west of Cimarron Boulevard.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 9
City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the
"A-1" District. Mayor Neal called for public comment.
Mr. John Torrey, 7253 Yaupon Dr., said there are already 36 or 38 apartment complexes in
District 5. He said this proposed development will only exacerbate the traffic congestion on South
Staples Street toward the mall. In response to Mayor Neal, Mr. Torrey said he lives in the Barclay
Grove subdivision, which is near the subject property. He said he did not register opposition to the
proposed zoning change.
Council Member Longoria made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council
Member Scott and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
17. ORDINANCE NO. 024670
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by Cloudcroft Land Ventures, Inc., by
changing the zoning map in reference to 7.66 acres out of Lots 9, 10 and 11, Section 10,
Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, from "R -1B" One -family Dwelling District
to "A-1" Apartment House District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any
deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
*************
Mayor Neal referred to Item 18, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing on the following zoning case:
18. Case No. 1001-09, A.J. Leasing: A change of zoning from a "B-3" Business District to an
"I-2" Light Industrial District, 6.02 acres out of Tract 7, William Robertson Farm Tracts,
located on the northwest corner of Saratoga Boulevard and County Road 37.
City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval of the
"I-2" District. No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Council Member Kinnison made
a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Colmenero and passed. Mr.
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 024671
Amending the Zoning Ordinance upon application by A.J. Leasing by changing the zoning
map in reference to 6.02 acres out of Tract 7 of the William Robertson Farm Tracts, from "B-
3" Business District to "I-2" Light Industrial District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to
account for any deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 10
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to Item 19, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing on proposed amendments to the city's dune protection and beach access plan (an
element of the Comprehensive Plan) and the dune protection and beach access regulations. City
Secretary Chapa said Council Member Kelly would abstain from discussing or voting on this item.
Assistant City Manager Tom Utter explained that the city's plan was adopted by the Council
in 1993 and staff is proposing three amendments. The first amendment is to include Packery Channel
as an action item in the plan; the second is to include the new definition of "erosion area line"; and
the third amendment pertains to the erosion restriction line, which he explained. Mayor Neal pointed
out that the seawall to which Mr. Utter referred is the seawall on Padre Island. Mr. Utter added that
according to the new definition, the erosion line would be 200 feet. He said that will not affect
anyone because generally the sand dunes are about 200 feet from the water, and construction in the
dunes is prohibited.
There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Garrett made a motion to close
the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Scott, and passed. Responding to Council Member
Colmenero, Mr. Utter said these amendments only affect the beach area on the Gulf of Mexico. He
said if the Council approves these amendments, they will be sent to the General Land Office for their
review. The GLO in turn publishes the amendments and after 60 days they become final. City
Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
19.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the City of Corpus Christi, Texas Dune Protection and Beach Access
Plan, an element of the City of Corpus Christi Comprehensive Plan, by adopting a policy
statement in support of Packery Channel, revising the definition of "erosion area line" and
description of eroding area boundary, and by revising Figure 5, which illustrates the
beachfront construction line, erosion area restriction line, and erosion area line.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye"; Kelly abstaining.
19.c. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the definition of "erosion area line" in Section 10-1 of the Code of
Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye"; Kelly abstaining.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 11
19.d. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 022164, which adopted the City of Corpus Christi,
Texas Dune Protection and Beach Access Regulations, by revising Appendix III, beachfront
construction line, erosion area restriction line, and erosion area line.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye"; Kelly abstaining.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to Item 20, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing to receive input concerning the adoption of an ordinance to expand the area of the
city's state -designated enterprise zone and designate the area as a reinvestment zone.
Assistant City Manager Utter explained that Corpus Christi's enterprise zone has already
gone through one cycle and was renewed in 1997 for another seven years. He said the zone has
approximately $2.5 billion of state -designated enterprise zone projects within it, making it the largest
in the state in terms of dollars. He said this proposal basically adds all of the Corpus Christi
International Airport (CCIA) property into the enterprise zone.
Mr. Utter referred to a map to describe the existing and proposed enterprise zone boundaries.
He said that Vision Technologies Aerospace, Ltd., which is planning to move to the CCIA, will
initially create about 450 jobs and build two hangars. He said during the Council's December 1 lth
meeting, staff will bring several related items, including holding a meeting of the Corpus Christi
Industrial Development Corporation to approve the inducement resolution on the sale of bonds for
that project. Mr. Utter said the inclusion of the airport property in the enterprise zone will not only
assist Vision Technologies but potentially other companies as well.
Mr. Utter also went on to say that Item 20.c. is a resolution nominating and designating
Vision Technologies Aerospace, Ltd., as a qualified business and enterprise project. He said that
means the company can get the state sales tax on the construction rebated to them (up to $5,000 per
employee). He noted that members of the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development
Corporation were present at the meeting. He said the CCREDC is paying the consultant who is
working on the enterprise zone proposal.
There were no comments from the audience. Council Member Longoria made a motion to
close the public hearing, seconded by Council Member Chesney, and passed.
Responding to Council Member Kinnison, Mr. Utter said it was not until the morning of
November 20th that all the local parties (including the local financial institution) reached agreement
on how the Vision Technologies proposal will be structured. He said it is a very complex issue and
staff will provide additional information and proposed actions at the December 11th meeting. He
added that the airport will benefit from being included in the enterprise zone whether or not the
n
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 12
Vision Technologies nomination is approved. He pointed out that enterprise zone projects within the
zone must hire 25% of their work force from either the enterprise zone area or hire other
economically disadvantaged persons.
Council Member Kelly asked what impact this proposal would have on the school districts
that happen to be in the enterprise zone. Mr. Utter replied that the schools are not giving up any
potential tax revenues. Council Member Colmenero asked about the enterprise zone boundaries. Mr.
Utter reviewed the map and discussed the criteria that must be met in order to form such a zone.
Responding to Council Member Noyola, Mr. Utter said the airport's inclusion in the enterprise zone,
if approved by the Council, does not affect existing businesses or businesses that are not trying to
be designated as enterprise zone projects. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
20.b. ORDINANCE NO. 024672
Ordinance expanding and renewing the boundaries of the Corpus Christi Enterprise Zone and
authorizing the filing of an Enterprise Zone Application with the Texas Department of
Economic Development, further nominating the expanded Enterprise Zone a Reinvestment
Zone.
An emergency was declared and the foregoing ordinance passed by the following vote: Neal,
Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
20.c. RESOLUTION NO. 024673
Resolution nominating and designating Vision Technologies Aerospace, Ltd. as a qualified
business and enterprise project pursuant to the Texas Enterprise Zone Act, Chapter 2303,
Texas Government Code.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 21, Vision Technologies Aerospace proposal.
Assistant City Manager Utter explained that four local entities --City of Corpus Christi, Nueces
County, Port of Corpus Christi Authority and the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development
Corporation --came together and suggested that Vision Technologies apply for a grant from the
Economic Development Administration. He said U.S. Rep. Solomon Ortiz also supports the
proposal. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for
their votes as follows:
21. RESOLUTION NO. 024674
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit an application to the U.S.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 13
Department of Commerce for an Economic Development Administration grant up to
$1,500,000 to construct improvements on the property of Corpus Christi International
Airport in connection with the Vision Technologies Aerospace Ltd. proposal.
The foregoing resolution passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. The first presentation (Item
22) was the FY 2001-02 first quarterly budget/performance report. Mr. Mark McDaniel, Director of
Management and Budget, introduced Ms. Cindy O'Brien as the new Assistant Director of Budget
for the operating budget. He referred to the first quarter report, which was distributed to the Council,
noting that the report's format continues to be modified based upon input from the Council. He said
the report does not have comparisons to prior years but staff will begin to compile that information
each quarter. Council Member Longoria asked about the historical data and Mr. McDaniel explained
that with prior reports, staff could not recreate what the fund balance may have been at a certain
quarter. City Manager Garcia pointed out that the city's new financial accounting system only
became fully operational in the last budget year. He said the new system is much more sophisticated
and versatile than the city's previous financial system.
Mr. McDaniel then reviewed highlights of the General Fund, noting that current ad valorem
property tax year-to-date (YTD) collections are behind when compared to the prior year due to the
timing of receipts. (Tax bills are mailed in September and typically paid by January 1st.) He said
YTD collections on other taxes, including sales taxes, are actually more favorable compared to the
prior year, which is surprising in light of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Listed under other
revenue is the Central Power and Light settlement which was recorded in the General Fund as a one-
time item.
With regard to General Fund expenditures, Mr. McDaniel said general government
expenditures are up due to the treatment of reimbursements, which he explained. He said public
safety expenditures are up but they are where they should be in terms of percentage of total budget.
He said budget staff meet with police staff about every six weeks to discuss budgetary issues. Mr.
Garcia said that as a result of discussions during the budget process, there have been major changes
in the organization of the financial accounting responsibilities. Mr. McDaniel said that YTD water
revenues are down compared to last year due to conservation efforts and the presence of more rain.
In addition, gas revenues are down, which is to be expected due to gas prices, and wastewater
revenues are down due to timing issues.
Referring to the Police Department budget, Mayor Neal expressed concern that Police
administration expenditures are the same percentage over budget this year as they were last year. Mr.
McDaniel said staff is watching that budget much more closely and he noted that the overall Police
Department budget is at 22.3% of expenditures versus 23.4% in the prior year.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 14
Council Member Garrett asked Mr. McDaniel if the Budget Office cuts the Police
Department budget. Mr. McDaniel replied that they do not cut it significantly. He said the idea is to
give the Police Department the resources they need to operate and then hold them to their budget.
Mr. Garrett said it is very important to give them the necessary resources.
Mr. McDaniel also discussed YTD expenditures and revenues for the internal service funds
and special revenue funds, as well as the financial impact of the September 11th attacks. He said
only the major funds with the greatest potential exposure were included: General Fund, Airport
Fund, Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund, Visitor's Facilities Fund, Combined Utility Fund, Maintenance
Services Fund and the Marina Fund. He said overall Corpus Christi is faring well compared to other
cities, some of which have experienced significant revenue decreases. He said as expected, airport
operations have been impacted more than any other due to the nature of the September 11th attacks.
Mr. Garcia said a task force was appointed after the attacks to review security of the city's
facilities. He said there will be an item on the next Council agenda dealing with the utility system
and capital investments that will be needed to increase security efforts.
Council Member Kinnison commended staff for their work on this report and he commented
on the estimated beginning unreserved balance, which is $8.16 million. He noted that that figure was
down to approximately $1 million just three years ago. Council Member Colmenero said he is
pleasantly surprised to see that Corpus Christi is faring as well as it is despite the September 1 lth
attacks. In response to a question from Mr. Colmenero, Mr. McDaniel discussed the seasonal affects
of the enterprise funds. Mr. Garcia added that those funds have substantial reserves specifically
because they are so weather -dependent. Mr. Colmenero also commented on overtime budgets in the
police and fire departments. Mr. Garcia pointed out that in addition to reservists being called away,
there are an unusually high number of people retiring this year in those departments.
Council Member Garrett said he was surprised that the Municipal Court did not show more
of an increase in revenues as a result of the marshals program. Mr. McDaniel replied that staff
budgeted a healthy increase in terms of overall revenue and he said he believes it is a timing issue.
Mr. Garcia said staff anticipates that the revenues will even out after an initial spike due to the
collection of backlogged unpaid tickets. Council Member Chesney thanked staff for their efforts.
Mayor Neal suggested that staff provide additional information about the city's reserves. Mr.
McDaniel said they intend to do so during the presentation on the capital budget. Mr. Garcia noted
that Mr. Mario Tapia, former acting budget director, is overseeing the capital budget.
*************
The second presentation (Item 23) was the quarterly update on the city's health insurance
program. Mr. Cruz-Aedo first reviewed the total cash flows for all the health plans for the period
August -October 2001. He said the contributions were $4.07 million and health care costs were $3.9
million, for a net income of $133,741. He said the ending balance in FY 2000-01 was $604,652 for
a total amount of $738,393. Mayor Neal pointed out that this is a "cash -in, cash -out" system and not
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 15
an accrual system. Mr. Cruz-Aedo said most of the claims come in within a 90 -day period. The
Mayor noted that the management of this fund has greatly improved over the last year. Mr. Garcia
cautioned that $740,000 is a thin margin in terms of the volatility of heath care costs.
Mr. Cruz-Aedo then reviewed the percentage of claim dollars for all the plans as follows:
out-patient hospitalization, 23.39%; in-patient hospitalization, 22.44%; diagnostic, x-ray and lab,
18.9%; physician's services, 16.16%; and prescriptions, 10.94%, which comprise 90% of the total
cost. He said the goal of the plan is to keep as many of the costs within the network; currently it is
93.06% in -network. Mr. Cruz-Aedo also discussed preferred -provider organization savings and cash
flows for the four individual plans.
The Financial Services Director said that as of July 31, 2001, the Citicare and Citicare Q -Plus
plans combined continue to perform as expected with a strong positive balance, while the Citicare
Fire plan's expenses continue to increase with no change in premiums. Staff is negotiating with the
union to address those issues. The Public Safety Citicare plan was under -funded at the end of the last
fiscal year. However, on November 13, 2001 a new labor agreement between the city and the police
union addressed the plan's deficiencies through plan design changes and a premium increase.
In addition, Risk Management has reviewed existing benefit policies to align the contracts
with the end of the city's fiscal year (July 31st) and the department will issue a request for proposals
for pre-certification/utilization review within 30 days. Risk Management is preparing for the January
2002 open enrollment process for employees and retirees and a benchmark of customer satisfaction
has been obtained through an employee survey. Mr. Cruz-Aedo also discussed the city's workers'
compensation administration, safety program, general/auto liability, and purchased insurance. He
said health education is offered through the annual health fair (which includes many preventive care
services) and the diabetes management program.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
The third presentation (Item 24) was the beach cleaning study by Shiner, Moseley and
Associates Inc. Mr. Jim Shiner said the primary focus of' the study was to determine how beaches
(those primarily in the state of Texas) are cleaned and the cost to do so. He said they interviewed
representatives of the following entities: Texas General Land Office, Florida Department of
Environmental Protection, Cameron County (which has 4.5 beach miles), South Padre Island (7.5
miles), Port Aransas (6.6 miles), Galveston Park Board (35 miles), and Galveston County (32 miles).
Mr. Shiner said all the entities interviewed perform most of the beach cleaning themselves
and many contract out the provision of portable toilets and one entity contracts out trash pick up. He
said most of the areas --particularly those with heavily used beaches --clean their beaches daily while
some do so less frequently in the winter. He said seaweed is a major factor in beach cleaning and
many areas rake the seaweed and place it at the dune/vegetation line. He said in that location the
seaweed can dry quickly and decompose and act as a fence for the dunes. He added that the
communities provide barrels for trash collection and portable toilets.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 16
Mr. Shiner also discussed the types of equipment that the communities use, including rakes,
cleaning machines, tractors, maintainers/front-end loaders, and trucks. He said a local businessman,
Mr. John Torrey, has developed a seaweed cleaning machine that he is getting patented. Mr. Shiner
said they recommend looking at Mr. Torrey's machine very closely as the city proceeds with its
beach cleaning efforts.
With regard to cost, the City of Port Aransas spends about $69,000 per mile each year to
clean its beaches, followed by South Padre Island and Cameron County. Corpus Christi has 5.4 miles
of beach to clean and it would cost about $240,000 based on the average to clean the beach or about
$373,000 based on the maximum (those figures do not include equipment capitalization). Mr. Shiner
also discussed two possible scenarios for Corpus Christi --investing and not investing in a beach -
cleaning machine, and the types of equipment and crews that would be needed under both scenarios.
He said Shiner -Moseley recommended that the city use tractors with rakes and buckets and possibly
a cleaning machine to clean the high -activity beaches on a daily basis. He said the key to making this
project work is an innovative supervisor who can adapt the crews to the city's needs.
Responding to Council members' questions, Mr. Shiner briefly discussed Mr. Torrey's
seaweed cleaning prototype and Mr. McDaniel addressed beach -cleaning costs in the annexation plan
for Mustang Island. Mr. Garcia said a city task force has been working on Mustang Island to begin
the process of improving the beach quality. Mayor Neal called for a brief recess.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 25, first reading ordinances of the annexation
program. There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council:
25.a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance annexing Wood River Areas A and B contiguous to the city limits in the vicinity
of the Wood River Subdivision; providing for a service plan for the annexed areas of land;
providing that the owners and inhabitants are entitled to all rights, privileges, and burdens
of other citizens and property owners of the City of Corpus Christi and are subject to and
bound by the City Charter, ordinances, resolutions and rules; providing for amendment of
the official maps of the City of Corpus Christi, and providing for an effective date.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
25.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance annexing Padre Island Area C, Tracts 1 and 2, contiguous to the city limits in the
vicinity of the Nueces-Kleberg County Line and adjacent to South Padre Island Drive (Park
Road 22) and south of Sea Pines Drive; providing for a service plan for the annexed tracts
of land; providing that the owners and inhabitants are entitled to all rights, privileges, and
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 17
burdens of other citizens and property owners of the City of Corpus Christi and are subject
to and bound by the City Charter, ordinances, resolutions and rules; providing for amend-
ment of the official maps of the City of Corpus Christi, and providing for an effective date.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
25.c. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance annexing Area D, a 919.17 acre area in the vicinity of Mustang Island, southeast
of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, between the city limits of the City of Corpus Christi and
the west city limits of the City of Port Aransas, contiguous to the city limits of the City of
Corpus Christi; providing for a service plan for the annexed area of land; providing that the
owners and inhabitants are entitled to all rights, privileges, and burdens of other citizens and
property owners of the City of Corpus Christi and area subject to and bound by the City
Charter, ordinances, resolutions and rules; providing for amendment of the official maps of
the City of Corpus Christi, and providing for an effective date.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
25.d. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance annexing Area E, Gulf of Mexico Water Area east of Port Aransas and Aransas
Pass containing 13,128.45 acres of water area, more or less, adjacent to Mustang Island and
partly in Nueces County, Texas and partly in Aransas County, Texas, and contiguous to the
city limits of the City of Corpus Christi; providing for a service plan for the annexed area of
land; providing that the owners and inhabitants are entitled to all rights, privileges, and
burdens of other citizens and property owners of the City of Corpus Christi and are subject
to and bound by the City Charter, ordinances, resolutions and rules; providing for amend-
ment of the official maps of the City of Corpus Christi, and providing for an effective date.
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
25.e. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance annexing Mustang Island Area F, Tracts 3A, 3B, 4 and 5 located between
Mustang Island State Park and the City of Port Aransas and contiguous to the city limits of
the City of Corpus Christi; providing for a service plan for the annexed area of land;
providing that the owners and inhabitants are entitled to all rights, privileges, and burdens
of other citizens and property owners of the City of Corpus Christi and are subject to and
bound by the City Charter, ordinances, resolutions and rules, providing for amendment of the
official maps of the City of Corpus Christi, and providing for an effective date.
r-
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 18
The foregoing ordinance passed on first reading by the following vote: Neal, Chesney,
Colmenero, Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 26, Consolidated Plan time table. There were no
comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
26.a. M2001-443
Motion adopting the timetable for the FY2002 Consolidated Plan/Annual Action Plan that
is the planning and application process for the Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) and Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG)
programs.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
26.b. M2001-444
Motion reaffirming Community Development Block Grant Program objectives and
guidelines as previously adopted by the City Council on March 22, 1994 (Ordinance No.
021901).
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 27, employee union dues payroll deductions. He
called for comments from the audience.
Mr. Jack Gordy, 310 Norton St., said last week the Council voted on the issue of "dues
check -off' but they did not have to because the Mayor could have directed staff to do so. He said
there are about 1,000 city employees who are looking forward to having that option. He also
commented that payroll deductions for dues are not complicated to implement. He said he hopes the
Council members will not change their minds on this issue.
Mr. Mike Bertuzzi said he was speaking on behalf of the Corpus Christi Chamber of
Commerce. He said they believe the Council moved forward too quickly in taking formal action on
the matter of dues check -off. He said they were asking the Council to table this item until a policy
can be developed that complies with the state law and affords all affected parties, including city
employees, the opportunity to participate in an open discussion of this issue.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 19
Mr. Sam Beecroft said he was representing the South Texas Chapter of Associated General
Contractors of America Inc. He read a resolution in which that organization requested that the vote
on city employee dues check -off be tabled until proper procedures governing its administration have
been established. He said the organization, which represents 235 employers in Corpus Christi and
surrounding communities, supports the development of a policy being implemented to promote and
define the relationship between employee groups and management.
Mr. Joe Adame, Chairman of the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development
Corporation, said their high priority is to ensure the continuation of existing industry. He said the
board feels that a policy should be established before the Council actually votes on the issue of dues
check -off.
Mr. Mark Pitt, representing the United Steel Workers of America, said a 1'/2 -hour
presentation was made to the Council last week covering all aspects of the dues check -off issue. He
said he does not know if last week's vote was procedurally incorrect but, if it was, it should be
corrected. He said the Council members on the opposing side lost the vote and are now saying it was
illegal and they do not want to vote again.
Mr. P.S. Vera said he cannot understand how the Council can vote again on an issue they
have already decided. He said the city employees need their help.
Mr. Stan Wilt, 5421 Parliament, said people have the right to govern themselves and have
control over their personal business. He asked the Council to vote positively on dues check -off.
Council Member Noyola said that according to the agenda memo for the November 20th
meeting, this issue was again before the Council because of a concern that the vote last week
occurred on a presentation item. He said the Council was in agreement last week to direct the City
Manager to develop policies and procedures to deal with the civilian union's concerns. Mayor Neal
said he recognizes that there is an organization representing city employees.
Responding to a question from Mr. Noyola, Mr. Garcia said that after the Council took its
vote last week, city staff members had initial meetings to discuss how they would implement a
payroll deduction system for union dues as well as a policy for working with the union. Mr. Noyola
said that apparently the Council needs to vote again on the dues check -off issue because they might
have violated the Open Meetings Act with their action last week. Mr. Noyola called for the question;
his motion died for lack of a second.
Council Member Kelly asked if the Council had endorsed any particular organization, and
Mayor Neal said they had not. Mr. Kelly said the South Texas Public Employees Association is also
interested in the city's employees.
Council Member Garrett made a motion to table Item 27 until January 22, 2002, in order to
give the City Manager time to develop and bring back to the Council for their consideration a policy
to administer dues check -off. Council Member Chesney seconded Mr. Garrett's motion to table. City
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 20
Secretary Chapa polled the Council and the motion passed as follows: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero,
Garrett, Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, and Scott voting "Aye"; Noyola voting "No."
27. TABLED
vt.an fit,-tmg the City Mai.agci to uaplc„ilc..t ducs clic.l.-eff cap
aaIcry cIIy cuip1OytC,.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal opened discussion on Item 33 under the emergency supplemental posting
regarding the volumetric survey of Lake Corpus Christi Reservoir. City Manager Garcia said this
survey can only be conducted when the reservoir is full. Mr. Ed Garana, Water Superintendent,
described the process to be followed by the Texas Water Development Board and he noted that the
report indicating the reservoir storage capacity amount should be completed by May 2002. There
were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes:
33. M2001-446
Motion authorizing the City Manager to enter into a contract with the Texas Water
Development Board for the purposes of performing a volumetric survey of Lake Corpus
Christi Reservoir in an amount not to exceed $40,000.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye.”
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal announced the executive sessions, pursuant to Texas Government Code Section
551.071 regarding the following:
28. Larry Young et al v. City of Corpus Christi, No. 01-647-C, 94th District Court, Nueces
County, Texas, with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session.
29. Executive session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding Mary
Collins et al v. City of Corpus Christi, No. 01-646-C, 94th District Court, Nueces County,
Texas, with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session.
The Council went into executive session. The Council returned from executive session.
*************
Mayor Neal called for petitions from the audience.
Mr. R.F. Hasker, 1813 Wallace, said a statement was made previously that Senator Carlos
Truan, who opposed a possible General Land Office grant for Packery Channel, was misinformed.
ir
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 21
Mr. Hasker said the election on the Packery Channel issue was bought and paid for by realtors and
supporters. He said the beach is eroding three to five yards each year and he added that $30 million
will not be enough to complete the Packery Channel project.
Mr. Brian Watson said he supports the firefighters in their efforts to gain stronger recognition
and appreciation in the community. He asked the Council to give full consideration to their requests.
Mr. Jack Gordy said that smoking should not be allowed at City Hall's entrances, particularly
the Staples Street entrance, through which many visitors pass. He criticized the eight Council
members who voted to table the dues check -off issue.
Mr. Isaac Valencia, President of the Corpus Christi Police Officers Association, said he had
been delayed in getting to the meeting. He said it is apparent that there are some philosophical
differences with payroll deduction for city employees. Mayor Neal said Mr. Valencia was
commenting on an agenda item and he had already called for comments at that time.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Neal called for the City Manager's report. Mr. Garcia said there would be no Council
meetings on November 27th and December 4th; the next meeting will be December 1 lth beginning
with a joint meeting at noon with the Economic Development Corporation. He said other items
scheduled for the regular meeting on December 11th are the capital budget presentation, second
reading of the annexation ordinance, and a presentation on "e -government."
Mr. Norbert Hart, Director of Housing and Community Development, announced that the
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department had dispersed the following grants: $480,000
to Corpus Christi Metro Ministries; $139,000 to the Coastal Bend Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation
Center; $385,000 to the Salvation Army; and $176,000 to Goodwill Industries. Mayor Neal said this
was the first time in two years that those agencies came together for a single grant application.
With regard to the executive session, Mayor Neal made the following motion, which was
seconded by Council Member Chesney:
28. M2001-445
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute a legal services agreement with Lowell
Denton, Denton, Navarro & Bernal, to represent the city in Lary Young et al v. City and
Mary Collins et al v. City at an hourly rate of $200 for shareholders, $145 for associates, and
$65 for paralegals, plus expenses, subject to appropriation and certification.
The foregoing motion passed by the following vote: Neal, Chesney, Colmenero, Garrett,
Kelly, Kinnison, Longoria, Noyola, and Scott voting "Aye."
Mayor Neal called for Council concerns and reports.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
November 20, 2001
Page 22
Mr. Chesney said he is still working on the Friends of the Park program and he asked
interested persons to contact him. He said he and Council Members Garrett and Colmenero will be
holding a town hall meeting in January in District 2.
Mr. Scott said there is a homeless man living under the SPID overpass at Airline Road and
he commented on the poor street conditions in Jackson Place. Assistant City Manager Ron Massey
said that Mr. Escobar was addressing that situation. Mr. Scott also asked about the operation of
Wesley Seale Dam. Mr. Massey said that reservoir can only hold a certain amount of water and due
to the recent rains, the water is continuing to enter the reservoir; as a result, it has to be passed
through to the Nueces River. He said that water cannot be captured in Choke Canyon Reservoir. Mr.
Scott said there needs to be a better utilization of the watershed. He also commended the City
Manager for his hiring of upper-level staff members and he recognized the presence of his parents
at the meeting.
Mr. Garrett asked about the status of constructing an executive nine course at Oso Golf
Course. Deputy City Manager Noe said staff will provide information during the December 11th
meeting. Mr. Longoria said he and Mr. Chesney were appointed by Mayor Neal, who is the President
of the Texas Municipal League, to represent the city on the Resolutions Committee. He asked staff
to review the proposed resolutions. He also requested the final command chart of the Police
Department and he asked staff to give their presentation about the new "one-stop" center to the end
users before they present it to the Council. Mr. Chesney asked staff to investigate a drainage problem
on Chenoweth Drive.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Neal adjourned the
Council meeting at 5:47 p.m. on November 20, 2001.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *