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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 05/17/2005I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Corpus Christi City Council of May 17, 2005, which were approved by the City Council on May 24, 2005. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, on this the 24th day of May, 2005. Armando Chapa City Secretary SEAL MINUTES CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS Regular Council Meeting May 17, 2005 - 10:00 a.m. PRESENT Mayor Henry Garrett Mayor Pro Tem Brent Chesney Council Members: Melody Cooper (Arrived at 10:03 a.m.) Jerry Garcia Rex Kinnison Bill Kelly John E. Marez Jesse Noyola Mark Scott Citv Staff: City Manager George K. Noe City Attorney Mary Kay Fischer City Secretary Armando Chapa Mayor Garrett called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall. The invocation was delivered by Reverend Darrell Tomasek of Lexington Baptist Church and the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Scott. 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 Garrett called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of May 10, 2005. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Garrett referred to Item 2 and the following board appointments were made: Board of Adjustment Charles Schibi (Reappointed) Ramiro "Gamby" Gamboa (Appointed) Building Code Board of Appeals Cliff Atnip (Appointed) Don R. Boyd Jr. (Appointed) Water Shore Advisory Committee Roy L. Pell (Reappointed) Dr. Oscar Garcia (Reappointed) Dan S. Leyendecker (Reappointed) Chris Burnett (Appointed) Building Standards Board Renee L. Carter (Appointed) Fred Hastings (Appointed) Jesus J. Jimenez (Appointed) Gregory Glen Spivey (Appointed) David Amori (Appointed) Commission on Children & Youth Liana Gonzales (Reappointed) Penny Grochow (Reappointed) Laura Spear Smith (Appointed) Sheri Phillabaum (Appointed) Georg "G" Johnson (Appointed) Lt. Martin Arnold (Appointed) Coretta Graham (Appointed) Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 2 * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Garrett called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 3-14). City Secretary Chapa announced that Mr. Kelly would be abstaining from the vote and discussion on Item 12. Mr. Abel Alonzo requested that Items 6, 12.c., and 13 be pulled for individual consideration. Mr. Kinnison also requested that Item 13 be pulled for individual consideration. A motion was made and passed to approve Items 3 through 14, constituting the consent agenda, except for Items 6, 12, and 13, which were pulled for individual consideration. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 3. MOTION NO. 2005-143 Motion approving the purchase of two (2) Series IV, tractor loader backhoes, one (1) three cubic yard, articulating wheel loader and one (1) mini track excavator from the following companies, for the following amounts, in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0078-05 for a total of $275,273.51 based on low bid and low bid meeting specifications. The equipment will be used by the Water, Storm Water and Wastewater Departments. Three of the recommended items are replacements and one is an addition to the fleet. Waukesha Pearce Ind. Corpus Christi, Texas Item Nos.: 1, 2 & 3 $226,367.51 Grand Total: $275,273.51 J.C. Brown, Inc. Corpus Christi, Texas Item No.: 4 $48,906 The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 4. MOTION NO. 2005-144 Motion approving a twenty-four month supply agreement with Coastal Sweeping Service, of Corpus Christi, Texas for street sweeping services in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0073-05, based on low bid, for an estimated two-year expenditure of $532,788.69 of which $55,498.83 is budgeted for FY 2004-2005. The service will be administered by the Storm Water Department. Funds have been requested by the Storm Water Department in FY 2005-2006. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 3 5. MOTION NO. 2005-145 Motion approving the purchase of six tractors and one flail mower from the following companies for the following amounts in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0094-05, based on low bid, for a total amount of $211,462. These items are purchased for the Parks and Recreation Department and Storm Water Department. All items are replacements to the fleet. Funds are available in the Capital Outlay Budget of the Maintenance Services Fund and the Park Operations Budget of the General Fund. Gulf Tractors Corpus Christi, Texas Bid Items 1, 2, and 4 $92,674 Grand Total $211,462 Coastal Plains Corpus Christi, Texas Bid Item 3 $118,788 The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 7.a. MOTION NO. 2005-146 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant in the amount of $55,371 from the Corporation for National and Community Service for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 7.b. ORDINANCE NO. 026261 Ordinance appropriating a grant in the amount of $55,371 from the Corporation for National and Community Service in the No. 1067 Parks and Recreation Grants Fund for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". MinLtes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 4 8.a. ORDINANCE NO. 026262 Ordinance appropriating $196,385 from City Hall Bond Fund 3160, transferring to and appropriating in Library Capital Improvement Program Fund 3210 for the Northwest Library Expansion; amending FY 2004-2005 Capital Budget adopted by Ordinance 026188 by increasing appropriations by $392,770. An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 8.b. MOTION NO. 2005-147 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Contract for Professional Services with Solka Nava Tomo Architects, of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $196,385 for the Northwest Library Expansion. (BOND ISSUE 2004) The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 9. MOTION NO. 2005-148 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with RS Black Civil Contractors, of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $754,179 for the Laguna Madre Wastewater Treatment Plant Aeration System Rehabilitation for the Total Base Bid. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote. Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 10. MOTION NO. 2005-149 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Garrett Construction, of Ingleside, Texas in the amount of $126,964.60 for the Padre Island Sand Dollar Pump Station Paving and Landscaping. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Nlinutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 5 11. MOTION NO. 2005-150 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with Bridges Specialties, Inc., of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $37,250 for the Water Laboratory Pre -Engineered Storage Building. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 14.a. MOTION NO. 2005-152 Motion approving the Transmission and Grid Main Construction and Reimbursement Agreement submitted by Alty Enterprises, Inc., owner and developer of Greystone Unit 1 subdivision located south of Slough Road east of Rodd Field Road for the installation of 1,143 linear feet of a 12 -inch PVC water grid main. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 14.b. ORDINANCE NO. 026266 Ordinance appropriating $55,900 from the Arterial Transmission and Grid Main Trust Fund No. 4030-540450 to pay developer reimbursement request for the installation of 1,143 linear feet of a 12 -inch PVC water grid main to develop Greystone Unit 1 subdivision. An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the following vote. Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 6 regarding a Title V grant for the Municipal Juvenile Court and Juvenile Assessment Center. Mr. Abel Alonzo asked if the cash match for the grant was being used for personnel costs. Municipal Court Judge Deanie King replied negatively, saying since the Juvenile Assessment Center did not have the funds for the cash match required to apply for the Title V grant, they were using a portion of her salary as the match. Mr. Alonzo also asked for more information on the interpreter fees. Judge King replied the law required the court make language interpreters available as needed. The Municipal Juvenile Court regularly used sign language and Spanish interpreters, and had to pay them what they charged. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 6 6. RESOLUTION NO. 026260 Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit a Title V grant application to the State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, in the amount of $105,389 for language interpreters, local mileage, equipment, and office space for the Municipal Juvenile Court and Juvenile Assessment Center, with a City match of $54,291 in the No. 1020 General Fund for a total project cost of $159,680. The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 12 regarding the convention center expansion and rehabilitation project. Regarding Item 12.c., Mr. Alonzo noted this was the twelfth change order for this project. He asked if there was a way staff could be more proactive, and mentioned that Nueces County didn't seem to have as many change orders. He suggested the City could learn from the County. Mr. Chesney took exception to Mr. Alonzo's comments, pointing out that the County didn't engage in as many construction projects as the city. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 12.a. ORDINANCE NO. 026263 Ordinance appropriating $22,383.36 from unappropriated interest earnings into the Bayfront Arts and Sciences 1994B Capital Improvement Program Fund No. 3121 for Convention Center Expansion and Rehabilitation project; amending the FY 2004-2005 Capital Budget adopted by Ordinance No. 026188 by increasing appropriations by $22,383.36. An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Kelly abstained. 12.b. ORDINANCE NO. 026264 Ordinance appropriating $115,349.78 from unappropriated interest eamings into the Convention Center 2002 Capital Improvement Program Fund No. 3181 for Convention Center Expansion and Rehabilitation project; amending the Capital Budget adopted by Ordinance No. 026188 by increasing appropriations by $115,349.78. An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Kelly abstained. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 7 12.c. MOTION NO. 2005-151 Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Change Order No. 12 (final) with MoorhouseBeecroft, Joint Venture, LLC, of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of $227,782 for the Convention Center Expansion and Rehabilitation project for various architectural, electrical, mechanical, structural and other modifications. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Kelly abstained. Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 13 regarding the city's financial policies. Mr. Alonzo thanked the city for the financial policies because they led to the city's improved bond ratings, and said the city should make a better effort to inform the community about their achievement. Mr. Kirmison stated that during the Council retreat, the Council had discussed reviewing the financial policies to see if they wanted to take a different direction (e.g. planned tax rate reductions). He did not have a problem with passing the policies today, but noted they may need to be amended after the Council review. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 13. RESOLUTION NO. 026265 Resolution reaffirming financial policies adopted by Resolution No. 023319 and providing a policy to maintain the fund balance for the General Fund at an adequate level. The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Garrett referred to Item 15.a., and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following item: 15.a.. Public hearing amending the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Corpus Christi ("The City") by adopting the Corpus Christi Future Land Use Plan and amending the Corpus Christi Urban Transportation Plan (Ordinance 025251) for the City and its extraterritorial jurisdiction; establishing a unified Future Land Use and Transportation Plan for coordination of land use, zoning, subdivision development and capital improvements consistent with the public interest; amending related elements of the Comprehensive Plan of the City. Assistant Director of Development Services Michael Gunning explained the adoption of the Future Land Use Plan map was the second of three phases of a process to combine the City's Area Development Plans into a unified Comprehensive Plan document. He said a comprehensive plan illustrating future land uses and transportation for the city and extra -territorial jurisdiction on a single map benefitted the development community and the general public by providing a guide to future land use and development decisions. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 8 Mr. Gunning explained the first phase of the plan was completed on March 25, 2003 with the adoption of the Urban Transportation Plan. The 2003 Urban Transportation Plan combined all of the transportation plan maps from the Area Development Plans into a single unified transportation plan map. He said it was necessary to update and amend the 2003 Urban Transportation Plan to assure consistency with the proposed future land use plan. Likewise, Mr. Gunning said the future land use plan map would also combine future land uses of the Area Development Plans into a single map, incorporating the following elements: rezonings that have occurred since 1994; approved plats that indicate a future use different from the adopted area plans; and for some areas without an adopted area plan, future land uses had been recommended. Mr. Gunning said the proposed plans primarily represented a change in plan format rather than major changes to land use or transportation policy. He showed several slides of each of the Area Development Plans. He also reviewed a chart depicting the apportionment of future land uses in the city and ETJ as follows: 59 percent - residential use; 6 percent - commercial; 14 percent - industrial; and 21 percent - public/semi-public. Mr. Scott asked if the city's public/semi-public apportionment was in line with other communities. Director of Development Services Barbara Holly replied negatively, saying this number was high compared with other communities, but she pointed out the city's beaches were included in this percentage as park land. Mr. Kelly noted there was a significant amount of land being projected to be traditional neighborhoods going south of F.M. 624. He asked if there were any plans to provide infrastructure in this area, particularly sewer and drainage. City Engineer Angel Escobar replied the Allison Wastewater Master Plan provided for the wastewater master planning for this entire area. Drainage needs would be handled by a series of drainage ditches west of Hwy. 77 being proposed under the Drainage Ditch Master Plan, which would ultimately drain into the Nueces River basin. Mr. Gunning discussed a number of proposed amendments to the Transportation Plan, saying the city had coordinated the plan development closely with the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). The amendments were designed to keep plans current with new street development and to allow flexibility in design of street cross sections by 1) removing the design cross sections from the plan and 2) providing for minor deviations to the plan without requiring a plan amendment process. Mr. Gunning reported staff surveyed nine cities to determine what mechanisms those communities used to identify and acquire transportation plan rights-of-way. The survey showed that all the cities used a transportation or thoroughfare plan in combination with subdivision/unified development code ordinances to require dedication or reserve future rights-of-way. He reviewed a number of statistics regarding right-of-way dedications on subdivision plats. Mr. Gunning said the Future Land Use and Transportation plans were distributed to the development community and their input was included. Their comments were as follows: create options for narrower pavement width to slow traffic down; consider reducing the number of cross sections; and reducing the right-of-way on Rural Cross Sections to be consistent with Urban Cross Sections. In addition, Mr. Gunning said the Transportation Advisory Committee and the Planning Commission also reviewed and recommended the Future Land Use and Urban Transportation Plans. Mr. Scott stated Mr. Paul Schexnailder had used a Planned Unit Development, or "PUD", Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 9 to obtain narrower streets on his development on Padre Island. He thought the PUD seemed to be a way to work around the city's current ordinances, and was a long, drawn-out process. Ms. Holly replied the PUD accomplished more than just narrower rights-of-way; rather, it allowed for different design standards that put a very unique look on that area. Mr. Scott remarked the developers he had spoken with seemed to dislike the PUD process. Ms. Holly replied the PUD was worrisome to local developers because it was cumbersome process in Austin, but staff needed to train them that in Corpus Christi, it was friendly process. Mr. Gunning also mentioned a number of map street alignments changes in the Transportation Plan. He said Flour Bluff Drive was being recommended for realignment to allow for runway expansion for the Navy's new jet trainer. Cimarron Boulevard was being recommended for termination at Oso Creek. Oso Parkway was recommended for termination of the Oso Parkway Street at Holly Road with the bike trail continuing along the Cayo Del Oso consistent with the Bay Trail III Project. Finally, he said one pedestrian beach accessway was being recommended for elimination because there was already a beach access point in the Port Aransas city limits that met the separation requirement for beach access. Mr. Scott asked for a status on the extension of SPUR 3, which was important to Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi. City Engineer Escobar replied staff was working with the developers who owned the land in that area. He said the city had a proposed layout that had been presented to the local TxDOT engineer, and then staff would develop a cost estimate for the project. Mr. Escobar stated Special Assistant to the City Manager Tom Utter anticipated the city would be making a presentation to the State TxDOT office in Austin regarding the project in late July or early August. Mr. Scott asked staff to encourage TxDOT to accelerate this project. Mr. Scott asked what type of road system the city anticipated on SH 361 from Padre Island to Port Aransas. Mr. Gunning replied the city was working with TxDOT to reduce the required right-of-way from 260 feet to 200 feet, but the issue had not yet been resolved. He said the developers and staff felt an adequate cross-section could be established with 200 feet of right-of-way. There were other issues, however, related to the possible relocation of CPL/AEP power lines. Senior Planner Bob Payne explained they wanted to move their power lines from the middle of the island up to the west edge of the right-of-way. Mr. Payne said the city needed to determine how much right-of-way was needed before they made their move. There were also issues related to drainage needs, because of proposed drainage swells on either side of the road. In conclusion, Mr. Gunning said both documents were intended to be guides for development. At the same time, the use of a single planning document would facilitate the city's ability to amend the plan as needed. Mayor Garrett asked for public comment. Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke regarding his concern that the development on Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi could generate multi- story buildings which would conflict with airspace needs for NAS Corpus Christi. Ms. Cooper made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Mr. Scott, and passed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: - Regular Council Meeting \ia� 10. 2005 -Page 10 15.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE Amending the Comprehensive Plan of the City of Corpus Christi ("The City") by adopting the Corpus Christi Future Land Use Plan and amending the Corpus Christi Urban Transportation Plan (Ordinance 025251) for the City and its extraterritorial jurisdiction; establishing a unified Future Land Use and Transportation Plan for coordination of land use, zoning, subdivision development and capital improvements consistent with the public interest; amending related elements of the Comprehensive Plan of the City. The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on first reading with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Mayor Garrett referred to Item 16.a., and a motion was made, seconded, and passed to open the public hearing on the following item: 16.a. Public hearing to consider a resolution adopting the Corpus Christi MPO Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan as a guide to the Transportation Plan and Oso Parkway Plan, an element of the Comprehensive Plan for the City and its extraterritorial jurisdiction; establishing a guide for bicycle and pedestrian improvements and for coordination of land use and capital improvements consistent with the public interest. Director of the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Tom Niskala stated the proposed Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan was intended to be a guide to the Transportation Plan and Oso Parkway Plan. He explained the MPO was an agency that facilitated the coordination of transportation planning for federally funded, multimodal highway and transit projects in the urban area. He said the MPO was fortunate to receive funding for additional transportation project research, a portion of which funded the development of a regional bicycle and pedestrian plan. The plan focused on developing a comprehensive program of infrastructure improvements throughout the city, Nueces County, and San Patricio County. Mr. Niskala said their research began by examining the existing conditions in the community based on a public participation effort headed by Ms. Gretchen Arnold with Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi. Ms. Arnold provided a summary of the public's comments on existing conditions. First, she said the public did not believe bicycling was included in the transportation plan because there were no direct, safe routes to areas of employment, shopping, education, and recreation. She said lanes disappeared or outside width was not available. Second, they felt bicycling was not planned for in maintenance operations because margins or lanes were poorly maintained, and re- surface treatments were inappropriate. Third, she said Corpus Christi and the surrounding region was considered to be inaccessible and unfriendly for bicycling according to various print media sources. She said this jeopardized the city's air quality and public health, as well tourism dollars. Ms. Arnold briefly described the public planning process used to obtain public input. She said a ride -along was conducted with cyclists and various local entities, a survey, a draft plan review by user groups, and prioritization of the plan. Mr. Niskala displayed slides of the proposed route and trail network for the northwest, Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 11 westside, southeast, southside, Flour Bluff, and Padre and Mustang Island areas. Mr. Niskala briefly mentioned the types of policies that needed to be in place to promote cycling. He mentioned updating street design standards, street maintenance operations, providing bicycle storage at public facilities, and educating the public about the rights of cyclists on the road. Mr. Niskala discussed the implementation plan for this project. The plan included the following aspects: organizing a bicycle/pedestrian program in the community; providing a plan and identifying the construction of needed facilities, identifying funding opportunities, educating cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists; enforcing laws and regulations; and providing resources for change. Regarding funding opportunities, he said the MPO mobility funds could be dedicated to individual projects, and there would probably be dedicated funds for bicycle and pedestrian projects through the enhancement project fund. He said State and foundation funded programs were also valid sources. In conclusion, Mr. Niskala said this resolution was the first step in the process in which the city's policy makers made a statement of support regarding the bicycle and pedestrian plan to the community. Mr. Scott asked how mobility funds were being used now. Mr. Niskala replied the funds were allocated to individual projects as part of the three-year Transportation Improvement Program, including the SPID Safety and Mitigation Congestion Project. With the new highway bill, however, Mr. Niskala said the MPO was hoping to see the allocations improve. He said if the Council approved today's resolution, then the MPO would have an adopted plan in place and be able to appeal for these new funds. Mr. Scott asked if the RTA could participate in this project. Mr. Niskala replied affirmatively, saying the RTA had purchased bike racks to mount on buses to support the program. The RTA could also assist financially, in collaboration with the city and MPO, to coordinate the expenditure of funds for the city's ADA improvements and the RTA's bus turnout improvements. Mr. Scott also asked about hike and bike trail improvements to Whitecap Boulevard, including resurfacing. Assistant City Manager Massey said the park and recreation and engineering departments were investigating any opportunities for GLO or park and recreation grant funding. Mr. Noyola spoke in support of the proposed Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. He asked for more specific information on the routes, especially the Westside routes. Mr. Niskala said he would provide this information. Mr. Kinnison asked if most of the funding options required a local match. Mr. Niskala answered affirmatively, saying most would require a 20 percent match. Mr. Kinnison pointed out that with all the current street construction passed in the bond election, the city would be able to meet the 20 percent match. He asked staff to be aggressive in obtaining funding for these projects. Mr. Garcia asked the MPO to provide more specific plans on Westside, Tuloso-Midway, and Flour Bluff area routes. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 12 In response to Mr. Kelly's question, Mr. Niskala replied these plans were intended to be guides for planning to be incorporated into the city's respective park, transportation, and area plans. Mr Gunning agreed, saying these guides did not have the same authorization as an ordinance, but were for planning purposes only. Mr. Kelly stated if the Council approved this resolution, then they were not making specific commitments to funding or resources. Mr. Niskala replied affirmatively. Mr. Marez spoke in support of the plans. He asked for information on the cyclists' reaction to the plan. Mr. Niskala replied the response had been positive, and cyclists had identified two priority projects, namely a long-distance route around the bay which could connect with Whitecap Boulevard, and to complete the connectivity to the current Bay Trail. Mayor Garrett asked for public comment. Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke regarding the importance of good standards for street surfacing to support cycling, and also pointed out a problem with contractors using the shoulder on Ocean Drive for construction staging for new homes. Mr. Scott made a motion to close the public hearing, seconded by Ms. Cooper, and passed. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 16.b. RESOLUTION NO. 026267 Resolution adopting the Corpus Christi MPO Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan as a guide to the Transportation Plan and Oso Parkway Plan, an element of the Comprehensive Plan for the City and its extraterritorial jurisdiction; establishing a guide for bicycle and pedestrian improvements and for coordination of land use and capital improvements consistent with the public interest. The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Mayor Garrett asked for a brief recess to conduct a swearing-in ceremony for new board and committee members and to present proclamations. ************* Mayor Garrett called for petitions from the audience. Mr. Brian Watson, 5813 Hugo, spoke regarding various issues related to the Base Realignment and Closure process. Mr. Wayne Hodge, 3122 Leopard, spoke regarding his concerns about city police officers transferring magistrated prisoners to the county hospital, saying this was the responsibility of the sheriffs department. He was concerned this was affecting the police department's ability to respond to calls. Mr. Noyola expressed concern about Mr. Hodge's comments, and asked Mr. Noe to investigate. Mr. Noe replied affirmatively, saying staff had not reported any problems to him regarding this issue. Mr. Garcia asked if prisoners were working the system by faking an illness to avoid incarceration. Mr. Hodge replied affirmatively, saying the chronic violators knew how to Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 13 exploit the system. ************* Mayor Garrett referred to the presentation on the day's agenda, a quarterly report from the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). CVB Chairman Dave Prewitt stated the board would provide their report in a video format. The video briefly discussed the results of the "Tourism Builds" report, the second part of a continuing study on the economic impact and community benefits of the tourism industry. The report was completed under the supervision of Dr. Jim Lee with Texas A&M - Corpus Christi. The CVB provided a detailed summary of the report after the presentation. According to the video, tourism generated $60 million in property taxes, hotel taxes, and sales taxes for the city. The city's current annualized hotel occupancy rate was 58.7 percent, compared with the state average of 59 percent, 58.5 percent at South Padre, and 53.7 percent at Galveston. In addition, the CVB had undertaken four new research projects at various stages of completion to gauge public opinion on the city as a tourist site as follows: a web -based interne study; a meeting planners focus group analysis to determine convention customer opinions; a customer intercept zip code analysis; and an advertising inquiry conversion study. The video stated that 56 percent of the respondents to the web -based survey chose the beach when making vacation plans. The three things respondents liked most about Corpus Christi were the beach, the aquarium, and the food, in that order. The respondents to the meeting planners focus group identified Corpus Christi as a good market for non-profit, religious groups, and associations on a tight budget. The video also provided a report on the effectiveness of the CVB's advertising. After the video, CVB President and CEO Tom Galyon stated the CVB was committed to the future of Corpus Christi. He commented the CVB had made many changes to its sales efforts by bringing on new staff and new markets, including the sports market and the eco -tourism market. The CVB was conducting a national search for the full-time eco -tourism manager. He also mentioned the CVB would have a new CD-ROM and new brochure to promote the American Bank Center and other convention facilities which would be released within the next few weeks. As the CVB's research had indicated, Mr. Galyon said the beach was the biggest draw to Corpus Christi, and thus it was incorporated into the CVB's new logo. In conclusion, Mr. Galyon said the CVB was committed to being the best tourism market organization possible with the city's current investment. Mr. Noyola asked how much the CVB spent on advertising. Mr. Galyon replied the CVB spent $523,000 a year, with approximately $49,000 in co-op advertising. Mr. Noyola asked if the CVB advertised in in-flight magazines. Mr. Galyon replied affirmatively, saying they advertised in Southwest Airlines's in-flight magazines with great success. Mr. Scott took exception to the CVB's presentation format. He said he preferred to receive the presentation in writing and before the meeting to allow him time to review it. He asked for more hard data regarding the status on convention bookings, any leads, and a comparison on how the city was doing this year compared to last year. He asked Mr. Galyon to submit a report in writing. Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 14 Mr. Kinnison asked for an update on the branding project for the I-37 and Harbor Bridge area. Mr. Galyon stated he would present more information on this project as it became available. He said the project had been referred to Mr. Raymond Gignac's firm to create a signage program and develop an infrastructure program for this area. He said the brand name had been finalized, SEA (Sports Entertainment and Arts)side Landing, but no other plan elements had been finalized. Mr Kinnison also asked for a report on the conventions booked in 2007 or 2008. He noted that under former Assistant City Manager Mark McDaniel's direction, the Council had asked the CVB to provide reports with more statistical data to better gauge the CVB's performance. He asked Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez and Mr. Galyon to focus on providing this data in their reports. Finally, Mr. Kinnison asked about the CVB's efforts to support the Velocity Games and the Conquer the Coast bicycle race. Mr. Galyon said he would provide the information. Mr. Kelly and Mr. Marez spoke in support of the eco -tourism market. Mr. Garcia asked for more specific information on the CVB's use of the HOT tax (Hotel Occupancy Tax). He also asked for information on any efforts targeting Northern Mexico tourists. Mr. Galyon replied the CVB had worked in the past with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to attract tourists from Monterrey, Mexico with some success. He said the CVB wished to take a new direction by partnering with the State of Texas as well to do a four city, one week sales campaign to build on these efforts. Mr. Garcia asked if the CVB had tried attracting Mexican tourist during the Christmas holidays as well as the traditional Easter holidays. Mr. Galyon said the CVB was looking at new efforts like this. * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 18 regarding the Velocity Games. Director of Park and Recreation Sally Gavlik introduced Ms. Debbie Lindsey -Opel, a Velocity Games Board member, to discuss the items. Ms. Lindsey -Opel stated this year, the Velocity Games wished to incorporate two changes to the presentation of the event, namely fencing in the area for additional security and charging an admission at the gates to support the games. She said these changes would also provide a more controlled access point to determine the number of event attendees. Ms. Lindsey -Opel stated the Velocity Games had received tremendous support this year. She thanked Mr. Brian O'Callahan, Ms. Yvonne Gottsch, and Ms. Jenny Dodge for their assistance in managing the event. Ms. Lindsey -Opel reported there were approximately 100 professional athletes would were scheduled to participate in this event. In addition, Mr. Lindsey -Opel said an amateur event was also being introduced to allow kids to compete on a skateboard ramp near the church. She said approximately $30,000 to $40,000 in cash prizes were being awarded. Mr. Chesney commented it was gratifying to see the new professional approach the Velocity Games Board had recently undertaken. He spoke in support of the event, saying the state, national, Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 15 and international publicity the city had received was phenomenal. Mr. Noyola spoke in support of the event. He asked where the skating events would take place. Ms. Lindsey -Opel replied the skating events would take place at McGee Beach in McCaughn Park. Mr. Noyola spoke in support of collaborating with the city, the Junior League, and the Velocity Games to create a permanent skating park somewhere in the city. Ms. Lindsey -Opel replied the McCaughn Park site would not be available for use in 2006, so this would give the Board a chance to explore other venues. There were no comments from the public. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 18.a. MOTION NO. 2005-153 Motion approving the application from Velocity Games, Inc. to use McGee Beach, McCaughan Park, and temporarily close the following street sections for Velocity Games: (1) East Shoreline Boulevard (northbound) including the parking lane, from Furman Avenue to Park Avenue, maintaining an 18 -foot emergency lane on the east side of this section beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, 2005 until Thursday, June 2, 2005 at 12:00 a.m. (2) East Shoreline Boulevard (northbound) from Park Avenue to Coopers Alley, maintaining an 18 -foot emergency land and traffic circulation lane on the west side of this section beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, 2005 until Thursday, June 2, 2005 at 12:00 a.m. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 18.b. MOTION NO. 2005-154 Motion approving the application from Velocity Games, Inc. to waive the requirement of Subsection (a) of Section 49-17 of the City Code of Ordinances that admission shall be free. The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 19 regarding the issuance of Certificates of Obligation for the landfill and marina projects. Director of Finance Cindy O'Brien reported the two resolutions before the Council were requesting authorization to publish Notices of Intention to issue Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation (C.O.) for both the landfill and marina projects. The city would be issuing approximately $15 million of C.O.s for the landfill project, and $4.5 million for the marina project. She said the Council had been provided information describing the project improvements in their packets. City Manager Noe added the issuance of C.O.s were related to prior Council actions authorizing staff to proceed with the opening of the Cefe Valenzuela landfill and additional boat slips Minutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 16 and infrastructure in the marina. In response to Mayor Garrett's question, Mr. Noe replied the landfill project was operating on a very tight schedule to have the facility open in time for the expiration of the J.C. Elliott landfill. Mayor Garrett also asked for a timeline on the marina project. Mayor Garrett called for public comment. Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke regarding his concern that these Certificates of Obligation were more like revenue bonds that the city was using to circumvent the need for voter approval for the possible use of property tax revenues to retire the debt on the bonds. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows: 19.a. RESOLUTION NO. 026268 Resolution by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, directing Publication of Notice of Intention to issue Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation, (Landfill Project); and resolving other matters relating to the subject. The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". 19.b. RESOLUTION NO. 026269 Resolution by the City Council of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas, directing Publication of Notice of Intention to issue Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation, (Marina Development Project); and resolving other matters relating to the subject. The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Cooper, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye". * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Garrett announced the executive session, which was listed on the agenda as follows: 20. Executive session under Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding fire collective bargaining negotiations, with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session. The Council went into executive session. * * * * * * * * * * * * * The Council returned from executive session, and Mayor Garrett called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Noe reported Fire Capt. Manuel Hernandez was involved in a serious accident that killed his wife and two daughters, and asked everyone to keep the family in their prayers. He announced a Neighborhood Pride Program meeting in NIP Area #6 at Zavala Elementary School at 6:00 p.m. tonight. He said NIP Area #6 was bounded by Agnes, Port, Highland, and Baldwin. \linutes - Regular Council Meeting May 10, 2005 - Page 17 Mr. Noe also announced a luncheon would be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday at the Holiday Inn -Airport to discuss small business opportunities program established by the 4A Board. He said Ms. Janie Barrera with ACCION Texas, 4A Board Chairman Gail Hoffman, Economic Development department staff, and other staff would be presenters. Mr. Noe stated the following items were scheduled for consideration at next Tuesday's Council meeting: four zoning cases, included the Sizemore Real Estate case that was previously tabled; a presentation on a recommended consultant to complete a utility rate study. Mayor Garrett announced the Council committee assignments for the Municipal Court Committee and the Audit Committee. He appointed Mr. Bill Kelly (Chairman), Mr. Chesney, Ms. Cooper, and Mr. Noyola to the Municipal Court Committee. He said their first order of business was to provide recommendations on the appointment of Municipal Court judges to the Council. Mayor Garrett appointed Mr. Kirmison (Chairman), Mr. Scott, Mr. Garcia, and Mr. Marez to the Audit Committee. Mayor Garrett called for Council concerns and reports. Mr. Noyola spoke regarding a possible civil injunction law against gang members. He understood a similar program was in place in San Antonio that prevented gang members from being within two miles of each other if they were members of the same gang. He asked staff to consider implementing a similar program here. Mr. Scott asked for a status report on the Packery Channel project. Mr. Noe replied the project was on track. Mr. Scott also asked about a bill on emerging technologies research centers that authorized five counties in Texas to establish research centers. He said Nueces County was not one of the counties chosen, and he asked if Special Assistant to the City Manager Tom Utter could advocate the importance of the Harte Research Center to the State of Texas. Mr. Noe replied affirmatively, saying the Economic Development Center and the Chamber of Commerce had also been active on this bill. Mr. Scott also asked about the city's stance on the gambling bills introduced in the legislature, saying it had been represented to him that the city had not been an active participant in these bills. He said he understood the city's stance was that if gambling was allowed by the legislature, then the city wanted to be a part of it. Mr. Noe agreed that this was the city's position historically, and he would look into it. Mr. Garcia asked about the $1 million overbid on the Sunnybrook/Manshiem project. He said he understood there was a statewide concrete shortage which limited the amount of available concrete by 25 percent. Mr. Massey replied the bid prices were affected by a number of factors, including cost increases in fuel and asphalt and a statewide production shortage for cement. City Engineer Escobar added that steel and PVC piping were also in short supply and subject to cost increases. Mr. Garcia asked how these supply issues affected the ability of contractors to bid for city projects. Mr. Escobar replied other governmental entities had experienced problems getting bids on projects requiring large amounts of cement. He said staff was discussing the problem with the city's consultants, and decided the timing and sequence of the project bids was crucial for success. iies - Regular Council Meeting N1,1). 10, 2005 - Page 18 Consequently, staff had made an effort to space the projects out to decrease competition with project from other governmental entities. He said the more competition there was, the higher the bid prices would be. Mr. Noe replied staff had to determine whether the supply issues were short-term or long- term problems, and then determine how to address them. In response to Mr. Scott's question, Mr. Escobar said staff was looking at ways to allow contractors to move in and out of a project quickly. Mayor Garrett reminded the Council members that there would be a joint appearance between the Council and the Commissioners Court tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. at the County Courthouse to discuss hurricane preparedness. Mayor Garrett complimented Assistant City Manager Margie Rose and Development Services staff members Michael Gunning and Barbara Holly regarding a development on Ocean Drive. He said the developers were impressed with the level of concern and professionalism the staff had displayed. Mr. Garcia echoed Mayor Garretts comments, saying the development community was pleased with the changes in city's One -Stop Center. There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Garrett adjourned the Council meeting at 2:35 p.m. on May 17, 2005. * * * * * * * * * * * * *