HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/12/2005I 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 July 12, 2005, which were approved by the
City Council on July 19, 2005.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, on this the 19th day of July, 2005.
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - 10:00 a.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Henry Garrett
Council Members:
Brent Chesney
Jerry Garcia
Rex Kinnison
Bill Kelly
John E. Marez
Jesse Noyola
Mark Scott
ABSENT
Mayor Pro Tem Melody Cooper
City 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 Pastor Brian McDonald of Glad Tidings Assembly of God
and the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Kelly.
Mayor Garrett called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of June 28,
2005. A motion was made and passed to approve the minutes as presented.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
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Mayor Garrett referred to Item 2 and the following board appointments were made:
Cable Communications Commission
Dr. Bruce Nelson Stratton (Appointed)
Robert A. (Bob) White (Appointed)
Committee for Persons with Disabilities
Abel Alonzo (Appointed)
Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation
Gail Hoffman (Appointed)
Sam J. Susser (Appointed)
Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau
POSTPONED
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Planning Commission
R. Bryan Stone (Reappointed)
Johnny R. Martinez (Appointed)
James Skrobarczyck, Sr. (Appointed)
*
Mayor Garrett called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 3 - 20). City Secretary
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 2
Chapa announced that Mr. Noyola was abstaining from the vote and discussion on Items 8 and 14.
Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, requested that Item 16 be pulled for individual consideration.
There were no Council comments. A motion was made and passed to approve Items 3 through 20,
constituting the consent agenda, except for Item 16, which was pulled for individual consideration.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
MOTION NO. 2005-213
Motion approving the purchase of forty (40) portable radios from Dailey & Wells
Communications, Inc., of San Antonio, Texas in the amount of$35,695. The award is based
on sole source. The portable radios will be utilized by the Health Department. Funds are
available from the Health Department Grant Fund.
Che foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
MOTION NO. 2005-214
Motion approving the purchase of one (1) pickup truck from Philpott Motor Company, of
Nederland, Texas for the total amount of $31,106. The award is based on the Cooperative
Purchasing Agreement with the Houston Galveston Area Council of Governments. This unit
is a replacement. Funding is available from the FY 2004-2005 Beach Operations Budget.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
MOTION NO. 2005-215
Motion approving the purchase of emergency response pharmaceuticals from HHS Supply
Service Center of Perry Point, Maryland in accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0123-05,
based on low bid, in the amount of $65,568. Funds are available in the Fire Department
Grants Fund.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
ORDINANCE NO. 026329
Ordinance appropriating $13,500 in training revenues received from Del Mar College into
the General Fund Fire Department for purchase of a thermal image camera and transmitter;
amending the FY 2004-2005 Operating Budget adopted by Ordinance No. 025878, by
increasing estimated revenues and appropriations by $13,500 each.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 3
RESOLUTION NO. 026330
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit an application to the
Texas Forest Service for a grant in the amount of $30,000 to fund a professional forester
position with a $24,000 match from Fund 1020 Park Operations.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
MOTION NO. 2005-216
Motion authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute an agreement with M. Dee
Koch, PhD for psychological services for the Police, Fire and Aviation Departments. The
term is for three years at an hourly rate of $40 with an estimated annual cost of $113,200.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, and Scott, voting "Aye-; Cooper was absent; Noyola
abstained.
9.a. MOTION NO. 2005-217
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept supplemental grant funding
in the amount of $11,580 from the Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA)
for the motor vehicle theft enforcement grant within the Police Department.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
9.b. ORDINANCE NO. 026331
Ordinance appropriating $11,580 from the Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority
(ATPA) for the Motor Vehicle Theft Enforcement Grant within the Corpus Christi Police
Department in the No. 1061 Police Grants Fund.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Cooper was absent.
10.a. RESOLUTION NO. 026332
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to accept a grant from Wal-Mart in
the amount of $1,000 to promote recycling.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett,
Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Cooper was
absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 4
I0.b. ORDINANCE NO. 026333
Ordinance appropriating estimated $25,000 from Corporate Entities in the No. 1051 Solid
Waste Grants Fund to promote recycling.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
-Aye"; Cooper was absent.
11. MOTION NO. 2005-218
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to authorize payment of Invoices
856068 and 856069 for twelve months software maintenance with HTE, Inc., of Lake Mary,
Florida in an amount not to exceed $123,941. Included in the maintenance agreement are
the HTE modules for Utilities Business Office, Central Cashiering, Accounts Receivable,
Collections, Development Services, and Housing and Community Development.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
12. MOTION NO. 2005-219
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Change Order No. 8 to the
construction contract with King Isles, Inc., of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of
$286,742.36 for the C-4 Street Reconstruction Project, Part B - Ayers Street/Gollihar Road
to complete the project. (BOND ISSUE 2000)
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
13. MOTION NO. 2005-220
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute Change Order No. 4 to a
construction contract with R. M. Wright Construction Co., of El Paso, Texas in the amount
of 593,490.01 for the replacement of existing piping at the Everhart/Staples Lift Station.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12. 2005 - Page 5
14. MOTION NO. 2005-221
Motion authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a construction contract with
Robles and Sons, Inc., of Cibolo, Texas in the amount of $275,000 for the Corpus Christi
International Airport Air Traffic Control Tower Demolition Project.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
15. ORDINANCE NO. 026334
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a Use Privilege
Agreement with BL Real Estate Holding Company, LP (Owner) for the right to construct and
maintain a private 2 -inch PVC force main to extend approximately 60 linear feet across the
Wyndale Drive street right-of-way and approximately 10 linear feet within the Claudia Drive
street right-of-way, located just east of Laguna Shores Road and north of Martha Drive;
establishing a fee of $220.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Cooper was absent.
17. ORDINANCE NO. 026335
Ordinance appropriating $476,950.11 from City Hall Capital Improvement Program Fund
3160 and transferring the $476,950.11 to and appropriating in the General Fund 1020 for
capital improvements to the Corpus Christi Natatorium; amending the FY 2004-2005 Capital
Budget adopted by Ordinance No. 026188 by increasing appropriations by $476,950.11;
amending FY 2004-2005 Annual Operating Budget adopted by Ordinance No. 025878 by
increasing revenues and appropriations each by $476.950.11.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
-Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 6
18. ORDINANCE NO. 026336
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute a four-year lease with the
Texas State Aquarium Association ("TSAA") to operate the parking lot in the right-of-way
of Highway 181 (Harbor Bridge) in consideration of TSAA's payment of the bond fund note
of approximately $150,000 annually, maintenance of the landscaping and parking lot, and
if parking revenues exceed $400,000 annually, payment to City of 50% of the excess
revenues.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
-Aye"; Cooper was absent.
19. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 53, increasing
parking meter rates on Breakwater, West Surfside, East Surfside and U.S. Highway 181 East
Access Road from twenty-five cents per hour to fifty cents per hour; providing for penalties;
and providing for effective date of August 1, 2005.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye";
Cooper was absent.
ORDINANCE NO. 026337
Waiving the 60 -day waiting period and publication of legal notice; renaming the park at 2120
Hudson St. from Midway Park to Nancy Todd Garrett Memorial Park. (First Reading
6/28/05)
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its second reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye";
Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 16 regarding an agreement for governmental
relations services. Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke against the agreement for lobbyist services
because he questioned whether it was necessary to have a full-time lobbyist in Washington, D.C.
He also questioned the funding for the agreement, which was being split between the general fund
(1/3) and the water fund (2/3), saying the water fund was being overly used for this purpose. Council
Member Scott, Council Member Garcia, and Mr. Noe spoke in support of the lobbying efforts of
Meyers & Associates. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 7
16. MOTION NO. 2005-222
Motion authorizing the City Manager to execute an agreement between the City of Corpus
Christi and Meyers & Associates for governmental relations services.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett referred to Item 21, and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the
public hearing on the following zoning case:
Case No. 0605-02 H. E. P. Developers, Inc.: A change of zoning from a "R-1 B" One -family
Dwelling District to a "RE" Residential Estate District. The property is 19.98 acres out of
Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, Lot 18, Section 48, located along Graham
Road and 670 feet east of Flour Bluff Drive.
City Secretary Chapa said the Planning Commission and staff recommended the denial of
the "RE" Residential Estate District and in lieu thereof, approval of a `R-1B/SP" One -family
Dwelling District with a Special Permit, subject to seven (7) conditions.
Assistant Director of Development Services Michael Gunning reported the applicant was
requesting the change in zoning to improve a 19.96 acre tract off of Graham Road and west of Flour
Bluff Drive for development of a 19 -lot single-family subdivision on minimum one -acre lots. He
said the aforementioned Planning Commission and staffs recommendation was contingent upon a
Special Permit requiring the developer to provide a retention or detention pond either on- or off-site
to account for the additional run-off that may occur during high rains periods. Mr. Gunning said the
applicant was in agreement with the "R-1B/SP" One -family Dwelling District zoning with a Special
Permit.
No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. A motion was made, seconded, and
passed to close the public hearing. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
21. ORDINANCE NO. 026338
Amending the Zoning Ordinance, upon application by H.E.P. Developers, Inc., by changing
the zoning map in reference to 19.98 acres out of Flour Bluff and Encinal Farm and Garden
Tracts Lot 18, Section 48, from "R -1B" One -family Residential District to "R-IB/SP" One -
family Dwelling District with a Special Permit subject to a site plan and seven (7) conditions;
amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviations from the existing
Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviations from the existing Comprehensive Plan.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with the
following vote: Garrett, Chesney, Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 8
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett referred to Item 22.a., and a motion was made, seconded, and passed to open
the public hearing on the following item:
22.a. Public hearing to consider and nominate applications to the Office of the Governor for
Renewal Community Commercial Revitalization Deduction allocations.
Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez explained that Corpus Christi was one of 40
designated Renewal Communities across the country. He said the city could nominate up to $12
million in the current year for Renewal Community Commercial Revitalization Deductions. Each
company with an eligible project submitted an application and, if approved, would have
approximately two years from the approval date to incur the expenses and realize the deductions.
He said today staff was presenting its recommendations for several local businesses that submitted
applications for 2005 funding. He said the nominated projects requested $2,055,000 in 2005 funds,
and also included a binding commitment of $2.5 million for the 2006 allocation requested by DRD
Reel Interests, LLC. Mr. Martinez stated descriptions of each business submitting an application
were available in the Council's packet.
Mr. Kinnison asked how much funding would be remaining from the 2005 allocation after
today's action. Mr. Martinez answered approximately $9 million of the $12 million 2005 allocation
would remain. Mr. Kinnison asked if there were any applications pending. Mr. Martinez replied
there may be some additional businesses indicating an interest. In reply to Mr. Kinnison's question,
Mr. Martinez stated at the end of the year, any remaining funds would be gone.
Mr. Kinnison asked if the coliseum project would be eligible for Renewal Community
funding. Mr. Martinez answered affirmatively, saying the coliseum was in the designated Renewal
Community area. He said staff had referred to this in the draft RFQ for the coliseum submitted for
the Council's review recently as a possible incentive for developers. Mr. Kinnison asked if the city
could "tag" a portion of the available 2005 funding for the coliseum project. City Manager Noe
replied given the timeframe for the RFQ process, the selection of the developer, and the actual
construction, it may be better to allocate funding from the 2006 allocation. Mr. Kinnison disagreed,
saying even in a worse case scenario, it was better than wasting the funding.
Mr. Kinnison asked about marketing efforts for the program. Assistant City Manager
Martinez replied the city could be more aggressive about marketing the program. Currently, a staff
person (intern) provided information to self-referred callers and business referrals from the EDC.
The city also had information about the program on its website. In addition, Mr. Mannti Cummins,
the city's consultant for this program, marketed the programs to businesses as well. City Manager
Noe stated the city had held a number of workshops and public presentation programs in the past to
inform the public.
Mr. Noyola was surprised there weren't more applicants for the credits. Mr. Martinez replied
there were seven applicants that qualified, but there may have been other applicants who were
deemed ineligible because they did not meet the city's criteria. He asked Mr. Cummins to elaborate.
Mr. Cummins replied the city had established two critical criteria for businesses to meet in the
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 9
application process as follows: proven financial resources and site control (own the property or have
an option to purchase the property). He said there were any number of potential projects in the
business community, but only those that met this criteria were nominated. He said there were two
projects which could become eligible for the credits before the end of the year. Mr. Cummins
emphasized there was a $10 million per project limit.
In response to Mr. Noyola's question, Mr. Cummins replied the city held a fall and spring
seminar at the Small Business Development Center to promote the Renewal Community program.
He said most of the projects nominated today were referred through these seminars. Mr. Cummins
also pointed out the geographic area for the Renewal Community, Census Tracts 35 and 50, was
greatly expanded by Council action thanks to a new law that took effect in October 2004. He said
the city and the South Texas Business Fund would be conducting an orientation bus tour of the
Renewal Community area at 9:00 a.m. on October 6, followed by an seminar at Del Mar College.
Mr. Noyola asked if any other census tracts could be added. Mr. Cummins replied the program
ended on December 31, 2009, so there would probably not be another opportunity to add another
census tract.
Mr. Marez asked if the city had expended all the available allocations in past years. Mr.
Martinez answered negatively, saying it didn't hurt the city other than not making full use of the
available tax credits. Mr. Marez stated the city needed to make more of an effort to promote the
program. He noted some of the nominated projects did not create new jobs, and he asked that new
job creation be a consideration during the selection process.
A motion was made, seconded, and passed to open the public hearing. There were no
comments from the audience. A motion was made, seconded, and passed to close the public hearing.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes on Item 22.b. as follows:
22.b. RESOLUTION NO. 026339
Resolution nominating projects to the Office of the Governor for Renewal Community
Commercial Revitalization Deductions
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett referred to Item 23, and a motion was made, seconded, and passed to open the
public hearing on proposed FY 2005-2006 Operating Budget. Assistant City Manager Oscar
Martinez briefly explained the assumptions used in formulating the budget. He also reviewed the
budget approval calendar. He noted the budget included a half -cent decrease in the maintenance and
operation (general fund) tax rate and a voter -approved 2.5 cent increase in the debt service fund. In
addition, the utility funds reflect rate increases to fund capital improvement projects as approved in
March 2005, as well as an additional percentage adding to those rate increases to cover the cost of
the 2004 bond projects. Overall, he said there was a slight increase in the number of full-time
equivalents (FTEs) in the budget. The budget also was consistent with the city's goal of continuing
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 10
to increase the city's fund balance. Finally, he said operating funds all reflect revenues in excess of
expenditures in all funds.
Mr. J.E. O'Brien, 4130 Pompano, spoke in favor of reducing the city's proposed operating
budget by $1.5 million and decreasing the tax rate as previously suggested by several Council
members. He spoke against utility rate increases, particularly those affecting natural gas rates.
In response to Mr. Chesney's question, City Manager Noe replied the effective tax rate does
not include any new improvements. To calculate the effective tax rate, Mr. Noe said the concept was
to take all of last year's taxpayers, and adjust them for this year so that they would pay the same
amount of gross taxes as last year. Thus. the only growth in revenue would be new improvements
(new houses, new commercial development, etc.). Mr. Chesney asked staff to provide information
on the revenues obtained due to new improvements. Mr. Noe answered affirmatively, noting the
number was a moving target because staff would have to base on the last report from the Nueces
County Tax Appraisal District.
Mr. Chesney stated if the city were to make budget cuts, then he would prefer that the
effective tax rate stay the same. if the new growth was not included in the formula, then he felt this
was somewhat equitable. Mr. Martinez said staff would extrapolate the number since the Appraisal
District has not submitted an estimate for new growth this year. Mr. Scott also asked staff to provide
the hard figure on new development revenues as soon as it was available. Mr. Noe replied the hard
figure would not be available until the end of July.
Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke against utility rate increases and in favor of a
reduction in property taxes. He also expressed concern that the city would end up subsidizing SMG's
operation of the arena, and spoke in favor of more fiscal controls in SMG's contract.
A motion was made. seconded, and passed to close the public hearing. Mr. Kinnison stated
to discuss two items during next week's first reading of the budget. First, he asked staff to see if the
cost for repairs for the Harbor Playhouse and the Art Museum of South Texas could be incorporated
into the budget. Second, he expressed concem about the tax increases, utility rate increases, and fee
increases included in the budget, which he had already discussed with Mr. Noe and Mr. Martinez.
He asked them to present the various cost reduction options they had discussed to the Council. He
said he hoped the Council would not focus solely on a property tax decrease; rather, it may be
preferable to consider utility rate or other rate decreases. He said not everyone in the community was
a property owner, but everyone was affected by the monthly charges from the utility office.
Therefore, a combination of these items may be preferable in order to reach out to more of the
community.
Mr. Chesney stated he understood the utility rate increases were tied to the infrastructure
improvements needed for Bond 2004 projects. He asked if Mr. Kinnison was suggesting a utility
rate decrease that would slow the progress on the infrastructure projects. Mr. Kinnison replied he
was asking staff to look at reductions specifically in the general fund, which would focus more on
solid waste charges, for example. Mr. Noe added in the general operating budget, there were two
major sources of revenue, property taxes and increases in solid waste fees. He said there was a
potential for some play between those two sources to implement the reductions.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 11
Mr. Chesney reiterated his desire to keep the effective tax rate at the same level, and then
make any reductions. He was Less interested in a combination of reductions in the tax rate and fees.
Mr. Noe replied staff would provide a number of options for the Council's consideration.
Mr. Noyola agreed with Mr. Chesney. He spoke against any fee reductions that would
negatively affect service provision in affected departments, saying he wanted to see the same levels
of service that were being provided now. if not better. City Manager Noe replied staff shared Mr.
Noyola's concern about maintaining levels of services, and would make recommendations that would
have minimal impacts on service. He said the goal was to yield higher levels of services in key areas
such as street maintenance and neighborhood services.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett referred to the presentations on the day's agenda. The first presentation was
Item 24, a crime statistics presentation by Police Chief Pete Alvarez Jr. Mayor Garrett clarified that
Mr. Kinnison had requested the presentation specifically to discuss ways to engage the community
in reducing the city's property crime rate to enhance police efforts. Mr. Kinnison added that
compared with other cities. property crime was a significant problem in Corpus Christi, and it did
not bode well for the city. He felt that focusing on enforcement efforts alone would not reduce the
property crime rate. Thus, he wished to discuss any societal problems which caused citizens to
commit the crimes in the first place, and ways to address these problems.
Police Chief Alvarez discussed the way the media reported on crime statistics. He said the
Corpus Caller -Times reported Corpus Christi had the fourth highest violent crime rate in Texas (June
22, 2005), and Forbes Magazine reported of 150 cities, Corpus Christi was ranked 147th in crime
(May 5, 2005). In addition, he mentioned a number of scandals in which cities such as Philadelphia,
New Orleans, Atlanta, and Baltimore were accused of underreporting crimes to lower their crime
rate. Chief Alvarez stated the city's police department reported crimes accurately.
Chief Alvarez stated when looking at crime statistics, it was important to understand the
crime trends in the city. Chief Alvarez said to have a complete picture of the crime in the city, he
would discuss statistics on all crimes, not just property crimes. He noted that property crime was
one of the most common offenses committed in most cities, and perhaps nationally.
Chief Alvarez stated the city used the Uniform Crime Report (UCR) measurement that the
FBI required annually of every law enforcement agency in the country on certain crimes such as
homicide, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, theft, and auto theft. He said the purpose of the UCR
was to provide information about long-term crime trends; help officials guide police programs; and
assist in prioritizing government resources. In addition, the FBI noted the primary objective of the
UCR was to generate a reliable set of crime statistics for use in law enforcement administration,
operation and management. The public relied on these date for information on the fluctuations in
the level of crime from year to year. He emphasized that the FBI cautioned and strongly discouraged
data users from ranking cities and using the data as a measurement of law enforcement effectiveness.
Chief Alvarez discussed the pitfalls of ranking cities based on the UCR, according the FBI.
First, he said crime statistics create misleading perceptions. Second, rankings ignored the
Lacs - Regular Council Meeting
I my 12, 2005 - Page 12
uniqueness of each locale, including population density and degree of urbanization; composition of
population and cultural conditions; and policies of other criminal justice components (i.e.
prosecutorial, judicial, and correctional). Finally, he said rankings do not reflect crime reporting
differences.
Chief Alvarez reviewed a number of graphs depicting the crime rates from 1996-2004. He
noted that he chose to begin the analysis in 1996 because it was the year he was named police chief.
For violent and property crimes combined, he said the crime rate was down 28 percent, from 30,467
crimes in 1996 to 21,935 crimes in 2004. Violent crimes during 1996 to 2004 were down by 33.9
percent. He attributed the decline to better curfew enforcement; the community policing effort; the
Juvenile Enforcement Team; Crime Control District funding; and the Juvenile Court. Finally, he
said property crime during this time frame was down 27 percent.
Chief Alvarez discussed the importance of involving the community in reducing the property
crime rate. He said property crimes were crimes of opportunity, so it was important to educate the
public to properly secure their belongings. In addition, he said high unemployment rates and drug
addiction contributed to the social problem. He agreed with Mr. Kinnison that police efforts alone
would not reduce the crime rate.
Mr. Kinnison noted the property crime rate chart in the Chiefs presentation showed a 30
percent increase in the crime rate between 2000 and 2004. In 2000, the crime rate was closer to
15,000 crimes. Between 2001 and 2004, the property crime rate was flat. Emphasizing that this was
not solely an enforcement issue, he stated it was evident this was a community problem. He said he
would like the city to set a target number and work towards achieving a reduction in the property
crime rate. Chief Alvarez replied that the crime rate naturally fluctuated from year to year. It was
difficult to pinpoint the exact reasons why the crime rate was lower in a particular year, but lower
unemployment rates could be a factor. City Manager Noe added the police department was placing
its emphasis on creating effective programs to address problem areas, like property crime.
Chief Alvarez displayed a number of charts comparing the crime rates of Corpus Christi with
other major Texas cities. He said among Texas cities in the 150,000 to 500,000 population range,
the city had a 28 percent reduction in crime between 1996 to 2004, the largest reduction seen.
Chief Alvarez discussed a chart depicting the city's crime rates for various classifications of
offenses between January through May 2005. Compared with the same time frame last year, he said
the crime rate was down 7.7 percent.
Chief Alvarez reported on the police department's current programs to affect crime as
follows: Hotspots program (2004); Auto Theft Prevention Authority (2001); Family Violence Unit
(1999); Juvenile Crime Effort (continuing since 1990s); and gang enforcement (Juvenile
Enforcement Team - since 1990s). He then reported on new initiatives as follows: pawn shop detail;
the development ofa five-year strategic plan; and incorporating new technology (e.g. Wi-Fi cameras
and new CAD/RMS). He singled out the pawn shop detail as a way to curb property crime.
Chief Alvarez highlighted the Hotspot program, which had accumulated $80,000 in
recoveries between March and June 2005. The Auto Theft Task Force's efforts resulted in a 33
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 13
percent decline in auto thefts between 2001 and 2004, and a 21.5 percent decline between January
and May 2005. City Manager Noe added that auto burglaries area are a particular problem affecting
the hospitality industry. Auto thefts are currently a misdemeanor offense in many cases, and there
has been an effort to upgrade the crime to a felony to increase the severity of the penalty. He said
the city may look at joining forces with other cities to add this to our legislative program.
Chief Alvarez displayed a graph depicting the reported incidents of family violence between
2000 and 2004. These crimes had declined 18.8 percent in that time frame.
Finally, Chief Alvarez discussed police efforts to combat gang activity, primarily through the
Juvenile Enforcement Team (JET). He said violent crime by juveniles decreased from 135 incidents
in 1996 to 33 incidents in 2004. Property crime by juveniles decreased from 772 incidents in 1996
to 228 incidents in 2004. Mr. Noyola spoke strongly in favor of using a civil injunction program
against gang members similar to one used in San Antonio. Chief Alvarez agreed, saying it was a
labor-intensive process but worth it.
Chief Alvarez concluded by saying the crime rates in the city were reflecting a decrease, and
the city seemed to be in good shape.
Mr. Kelly expressed concern about the fluctuations in violent crime rate between 1996 and
2004. He asked Chief Alvarez to explain the fluctuations. Chief Alvarez stated the crime rate
fluctuated, and he could not give a specific answer on the cause. Mr. Kelly took exception to this,
saying he wanted to know why the city's standing in relation to other cities had dropped, even though
the crime rates had remained steady over the last six years. He asked why the police department
wasn't talking to the other cities to see what they were doing right. City Manager Noe replied the
department's belief was that the city shouldn't be comparing our numbers with those of other cities.
Thus, staff was not convinced that the city's ranking truly had changed, but could develop the
information. Mr. Kelly acknowledged that the police department had taken a proactive stance by
introducing a number of outstanding programs. However, he still thought it was a good idea to speak
with other cities to learn from them if in fact the city's standing was slipping compared with other
cities.
Chief Alvarez reiterated that the police department reported the numbers accurately, and did
not make any attempts to tailor them to enhance the city's position. Mr. Kelly replied he did not
expect Chief Alvarez to change the criteria for reporting to paint a rosier picture; rather, he would
like to see real improvement. He emphasized that he was not upset with the police department's
performance. He was only looking for ways to improve the city's standing. Chief Alvarez replied
there was always room for improvement, and staff could speak with other cities to see what they
were doing.
Mr. Scott took exception to Chief Alvarez's comments about changing the criteria for
reporting crimes to benefit the city, saying the Council never asked him to do that. City Manager
Noe stated no one supported the idea of playing with the numbers to accomplish an artificial goal.
He said Chief Alvarez's point was not to focus only on the numbers because of differences in
reporting between cities as an operational issue, not necessarily because of dishonesty.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 14
City Manager Noe stated the statistics are useful because they focus on trends, and the trends
in some instances are flat. The biggest challenge for the city is to discuss the non -policing factors
that relate to the plateau, including societal factors, educational issues, criminal justice issues, and
the like. He said the city as an organization needed to discuss how to impact these indicators in
addition to the policing aspect of the equation. Mr. Kelly agreed, saying it was frustrating that the
crime rates had reached a plateau in some areas. Mr. Noe replied what the city could do was identify
four or five issues that the community might set as goals and priorities to make an impact on the
numbers.
Mr. Noyola stated he was not concerned with how Forbes Magazine or any other entity rated
the city. He accepted the statistics provided by Chief Alvarez, and his only concern was to see those
numbers decrease over time.
Mr. Scott stated while Chief Alvarez may not be concerned with the city's standing in crime
rates compared to other cities, it was a concern to potential businesses that were interested in locating
here. He named a number of national publications that had rated the city poorly in regards to violent
and property crime. Mr. Scott said he would like to see the city move past the plateau in its crime
rate. He asked Chief Alvarez to provide five-year trends for all the statistics he had discussed today.
He also asked for a graph of the unemployment rate over the last five years to see if there was a
correlation with crime. He told Mr. Noe and Chief Alvarez that he appreciated getting to this point,
but he wanted to see the city's crime rates decrease further. He wanted to see realistic targets for
reductions in crime and plan on how to reach them. He thought the police department should take
the lead in mobilizing a community-based initiative in reducing crime. Chief Alvarez replied the
police department could use 100 more officers if they were to lead such an initiative, saying the city
had one of the lowest ratios of officers per thousand citizens. Mr. Scott stated he would like to see
a game plan on how the Chief would use these officers. Chief Alvarez stated he was working on a
five-year strategic plan which would provide this information. Mr. Scott said he wished he had seen
this plan three years ago. Mr. Noyola spoke in support of the Chiefs request for more officers,
saying funding seemed to be the primary issue preventing an increase in officers.
Mr. Marez spoke in support of enhancing the number of police officers on the force. He
spoke against any reductions in the budget that could detrimentally affect service levels. He said he
would like to see more officers included in the budget to give the Chief the resources he needed.
Mr. Chesney agreed with Mr. Scotts comments about seeing a five-year plan before
approving an increase in the number of officers. City Manager Noe added that the Chiefs plan
would probably include departmental measures only, and would not address community-based
issues. He recounted the department's efforts in formulating the Crime Control District five-year
plan, and he said it would be useful to include them in the discussion.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett called for petitions from the audience. Mr. Bill Kopecky, 3609 Topeka, spoke
regarding the proposed street closures on Elizabeth and Third Streets, asking the city to reconsider
the way they handle advertising and notification for arterial streets.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 15
Mr. Johnny French, 4417 Carlton, asked the Council to reconsider the city's policy not to
pick up opossums from residences. Mr. Scott agreed that he did not like this policy either, and he
asked Mr. Noe to let the Council know how much it would cost to resume this services.
Mr. Jack Gordy, 4118 Bray, spoke regarding his concerns about the management of the
public access studio.
Ms. Cruz Colomo and Mr. R.E. Byer spoke against Mr. Gordy's characterization of the
management of the public access studio.
Mr. Roland Garza spoke regarding his concerns about the quality of the construction work
and materials on Horne Road, 19th Street, Kostoryz Road, and Archer Street, while the work on
Alameda and Santa Fe Streets seemed to be adequate. Mayor Garrett echoed his concerns, saying
it didn't appear the work was being inspected well. Regarding the 19th Street and Elizabeth Street
projects, City Engineer Angel Escobar said the work involved placing a new 16 -inch water line in
both locations. He said the initial work the contractor completed was unsatisfactory; subsequently,
the contractor has begun re -doing the work. He is supposed to do a complete seal -coat of the street.
Mayor Garrett asked for a status of the Archer Street project. Mr. Escobar stated the area
where the curb and gutter and the asphalt reach needed to be re -done. The contractor has been
contacted, but he did not have a time line on when the work would be completed.
Mayor Garrett reiterated his concern about substandard work, particularly on Gollihar Road,
saying staff needed to scrutinize the work to ensure quality.
Mr. Noyola expressed concern that it appeared some parts of town, like Santa Fe Street, were
getting better quality work. He said there were problems on Ayers Street, Gollihar Road, and
Sunnybrook. City Manager Noe explained that these streets had different types of work done (e.g.
street reconstruction vs. utility work) which resulted in different standards of work. Mr. Noyola
replied it shouldn't matter what type of work was done, the end result should be a driveable street.
He stressed that the projects should be completed correctly and on schedule.
Mr. Garcia agreed with Mr. Noe that there were different standards for different types of
work, such as between patch work and utility work on a street. He did not believe the city was
accepting substandard work.
Mr. Scott commented that the Santa Fe/Alameda project was actually a Bond 1986 project
that took over 15 years to complete. It was not completed expeditiously as some were suggesting
today.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett called for a brief recess to present proclamations.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 16
Mayor Garrett recognized Mr. Adam Rios, 2022 Airline #1011, for public comment. Mr.
Rios spoke regarding his concerns about underage drinking and asked the city to pass a resolution
to discourage it. He mentioned he had seen alcohol served at Cole Park. City Manager Noe stated
alcohol was not allowed at city parks, but he was not sure how this pertained to rentals of city
facilities in parks, and he would look into it. Mayor Garrett asked for a copy of the city's alcohol
policy in Cole Park. The Council asked Mr. Rios to speak with Mr. Noe about drafting a resolution
for their approval.
The last presentation was Item 25, a report on a City Council Focus Area, enhanced
intergovernmental relations. City Manager Noe stated at the Council Retreat in May 2005, the
Council identified six Priority Focus Areas, one of which was enhanced intergovernmental relations.
He said this was the second of six Focus Areas to be presented for implementation in the coming
y ear.
Mr. Noe discussed the benefits of enhancing relationships with other governmental entities
as follows: cost savings; cost avoidance; improved efficiency through functional distribution of
services to citizens; added value to services delivered; multi -organizational capacity building; and
basis for future planning.
Mr. Noe mentioned a number of potential local government partners as follows: Nueces
County; Independent School Districts (ISDs); Port of Corpus Christi; Regional Transportation
Authority (RTA); Del Mar College; Texas A & M University - Corpus Christi; Coastal Bend Council
of Governments; and any others the Council may suggest.
Mr. Noe stated the city had already engaged in partnerships with a number of
intergovernmental entities. He listed the city's accomplishments to date with Nueces County as
follows: Metro -Com; 800Mz radio system; City -County Health department; development
coordination; and Commissioners' Court broadcast. Future opportunities for partnerships could
include the following concepts: joint procurement for reduced cost (i.e. fuel, equipment and
materials, temp services, cell phone service, and radio maintenance); sharing of best
practices/opportunities for cooperation (e.g. computer services, beach maintenance, risk
management); and joint planning (storm water, streets, and parks).
Mr. Noe listed the city's accomplishments with the Corpus Christi Independent School
District (CCISD) and other ISDs as follows: High School reform initiative (Moody High School);
Digital Cities "proof of concept" to facilitate interaction between parents, students, and
administrators; joint use/reciprocal agreements, such as the shared use of the Natatorium; fiber optic
network access; and the Flour Bluff ISD/Janet Harte Library joint venture. Future opportunities
could include the following concepts: information sharing (presentations, progress reports); school
crossing guard coordination; security services; library services (Southside Library); and joint facility
planning (parks, recreation facilities, etc.).
Mr. Noe mentioned the city's accomplishments with the Port of Corpus Christi as follows:
Fulton Corridor; Port area planning; economic development; Digital City "proof of concept" (video
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 17
surveillance); and security cooperation and collaboration (radios et al). Future opportunities for
partnerships could include the following concepts: information technology; Wi-Fi; and homeland
security.
Mr. Noe briefly discussed the accomplishments with the RTA as follows: bus stop program;
ADA curb cut program; radio and AVL; American Bank Center - special event Park -n -Ride; Livable
Cities grants; and planning. Future opportunities for partnerships include the following concepts:
information technology and Wi-Fi; and planning for service response during emergencies.
Mr. Noe listed the accomplishments with Del Mar College and Texas A & M University -
Corpus Christi as follows: American Bank Center arena; Central Kitchen facility/operation; Small
Business Development Center; public safety training; legislative initiatives; legislative initiatives;
and information technology. Future opportunities for partnerships included the following concepts:
alignment of health and public safety training; joint library use; and information technology
applications and Wi-Fi.
Mr. Noe listed the city's accomplishments in partnering with the Coastal Bend Council of
Governments as follows: regional coordination and planning for 12 counties; federal and state grant
allocation and review; and city representation. He highlighted the need for the city to take a more
active leadership role on the Council of Governments.
Mr. Noe discussed the next steps in the implementation plan. First, he said staff would hold
meetings with representatives of each partner or group of partners to discuss opportunities, and plan
a joint meeting with the policy body. Second, staff would meet with ISD's and arrange for regular
presentations to the Council on progress on matters of mutual interest. Third, staff would explore
the opportunity to hold a meeting of all governmental agencies in the area on a single topic. Finally,
staff would review progress in six months.
Mayor Garrett stressed the importance of good intergovernmental relations and coordination
during asked emergencies. Staff responded to questions about the RTA's role during emergency
evacuations. Mr. Noe stated the Wi-Fi system would facilitate communication and coordination
between intergovernmental entities.
Mr. Scott asked Mr. Noe to add an issue for discussion with Nueces County regarding the
issuance of dune permits for island development. He said most counties give cities the authority to
issue dune permits to centralize the development permit process. He said Corpus Christi was the
only city that did have the authority to do this. Mr. Noe said in previous discussions, it was learned
the county had a committee controlling this function that felt they were fulfilling this function well
and were not interested in ceding this power to the city. He said he would discuss the matter with
the county again.
Mr. Scott also asked Mr. Noe to include a public relations component to this effort. He also
advocated the development of an initiative to make this city a world-class city.
Mayor Garrett spoke in support of staffs efforts, stating the community wanted their
government to work together.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 18
Mr. Noyola asked staff to speak with the RTA about coordinating efforts during a hurricane
evacuation. He spoke in support of joint procurement of fuel and equipment.
Mr. Marez suggested allowing CCISD to post general information and possibly show their
meetings on the city's public access channel. Mr. Noe said he would speak with them about finding
ways to get better access to the cable system.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 26 regarding the joint use of the Del Mar College
Public Safety training facility. Mr. Chesney asked if the firefighters association had been informed
about today's presentation. Chief Adame replied that during the design phase of the project, staff
ensured that the association was invited to participate on three occasions. He said they attended one
meeting. He said staff made an effort to discuss the issue with them. Mr. Chesney asked staff to
circulate the proposal to all firefighters.
Fire ChiefJ.J. Adame stated Mr. Chris Black, chairperson of Del Mar College's Department
of Public Safety Education, would provide an overview of the project. Mr. Black provided a project
description. He said the project was designed to provide state-of-the-art training for law
enforcement, firefighters, occupational safety and health technicians, emergency medical paramedics,
and Homeland Security personnel. In addition, it was designed to expand job training opportunities
for first responders and other professionals employed with South Texas safety agencies. Finally, he
said the goal was to compliment existing city and county fire and police training.
Mr. Black provided a detailed review of plans for the training facility. The facility included
a classroom building, a training field with a four-story burn tower. a two-story burn residence, a
drafting pit, a street system, and a driving pad. He described the propane elements in the facility,
the HazMat area, and the vehicle bay. Finally, he described the Hogan's Alley area for confined
space rescue training and shoot -don't shoot training. Mr. Black stated the project would be
substantially completed by August 21. 2006.
Mr. Black discussed the training capacity of the facility. He said it had 35 training features,
25 of which could be used simultaneously. The facility would be available 16 hours a day, 7 days
a week in 25 areas, totaling 2,800 possible training hours a week and 134,400 training hours a year.
The facility would be available a minimum of 20 hours a week, with no established maximum. The
only requirement was that groups must schedule their training, possible using a web -based request
system, coordinated by Assistant Fire Chief Rick Trevino.
Mr. Black stated the minimum established training needs for firefighters were 20 hours/year
for continuing education and 960 hours a year for the 16 fire stations.
Mr. Noyola expressed concerns about any safety issues for the neighborhood since propane
was being stored at the facility. Chief Adame replied any equipment and materials used in the
facility would have to meet code requirements and National Fire Protection Association
requirements. If there were any issues, Chief Adame said he would notify the neighbors.
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 19
Mr. Noyola asked if the city's firefighters could use the facility as much as possible. Chief
Adame replied affirmatively, saying Chief Trevino would help coordinate the training to work with
their schedules.
Chief Adame briefly discussed the Fire department's responsibilities in the agreement as
follows: provide water and natural gas to the Del Mar College (DMC)'s training field at no cost;
provide supervision for CCFD training participants; provide maintenance and repair for DMC's
SCBA; provide maintenance and repair services for pumps on DMC's fire apparatus; provide vaults;
culvert pipes, and manways for the construction of a confined space training prop; pay DMC the
adjunct faculty hourly rate for a qualified technician; encourage its staff to participate in the
educational activities of DMC; reimburse DMC for consumables used in fire, EMS, or HazMat
training; reimburse DMC for any damages caused by negligence or misuse; cooperate with DMC in
the future development of the fire training field; and designate at least two CCFD personnel to be
trained as technicians to operate fire props on the fire -training field. Chief Adame noted that the Tri -
Data report recommendations were very keen on this joint venture.
There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa advised the Council that
they needed to make a motion to authorize the agreement between the Corpus Christi Fire
Department and Del Mar College for the joint use of the Del Mar College Public Safety training
facility. Mr. Scott made a motion to this affect, seconded by Mr. Chesney, and passed.
26. MOTION NO. 2005-223
Motion to authorize an agreement between the Corpus Christi Fire Department and Del Mar
College for the joint use of the Del Mar College Public Safety Training Facility.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 27 regarding an agreement with the Nueces River
Authority. The Council had no questions regarding this item. There were no comments from the
public. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 026340
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement
with the Nueces River Authority for regional water planning, protection, and development
services
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting -Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 28, regarding the city's participation in the AEP
Texas Central Company's true -up proceeding. Assistant City Manager Martinez stated this
resolution authorized the city to intervene in the proceeding that could lead to an increase of $2.4
billion which would increase customer bills approximately $9 a month for the next 15 years. The
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12. 2005 - Page 20
resolution would also authorize the city to procure the services of a legal firm to intervene, with the
cost covered by AEP.
Mr. Scott expressed concern about the attorney assigned to the case, Mr. Geoffrey Gay with
Lloyd Gosselink, Blevins, Rochelle, & Townsend. He said he didn't care for Mr. Gay's method of
negotiating with the industry. He asked Mr. Noe to actively participate in this matter. Mr. Noe
replied this was a formal proceeding that would not require as much private negotiations. Mr. Scott
also asked Mr. Noe to communicate to Mr. Gay that there be no unnecessary delays in this case, and
to improve his ability to communicate with industry. He asked staff to provide a status report in 30
or 60 days.
Mr. Kinnison asked Mr. Noe to invite Mr. Gay to describe the process, his time line, and his
objectives in the case in closed session. He also asked Mr. Noe to have the city's negotiator in the
firefighters contract issue speak with the Council during the next few weeks. Mr. Noe replied staff
was already working on scheduling this meeting.
There were no comments from the public. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their
votes as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 026341
Resolution of the City of Corpus Christi, Texas authorizing intervention in AEP Texas
Central Company's true -up proceeding to be filed at the Public Utility Commission of Texas,
authorizing the joining with other intervening cities to coordinate efforts to protect municipal
and ratepayer interests; authorizing the hiring of attorneys and consultants; and requiring
reimbursement of the cities' ratemaking costs.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Chesney,
Garcia, Kelly, Kinnison, Marez, Noyola, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 29 regarding parking prohibitions in the downtown
area near the arena and baseball stadium. Council Member Kelly abstained from the vote and
discussion on this item. Mr. Noe stated staff was recommending this item be tabled until July 26.
A motion was made, seconded, and passed to table Item 29 until July 26.
29. TABLED UNTIL JULY 26, 2005
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Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 21
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* * * * * * * * * * * *
*
Mayor Garrett called for the City Manager's report. City Manager Noe reported the Health
Department was partnering with the Tuloso-Midway Independent School District to sponsor a back
to school immunization clinic to held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at T -M Primary School. It will
be open to the public. Fees are $5 per child, and $10 per family. Parents must bring their child's
immunization record.
Mr. Noe reported the following items were scheduled for the July 19 agenda: first reading
of the budget ordinance; annual Downtown Management District presentation; and discussion
regarding downtown development as one of the Council's Focus Areas.
Mayor Garrett reported that from this point forward, he would break for proclamations and
public comment beginning at 11:45 a.m., no later.
Mayor Garrett called for Council concerns and reports. Mr. Noyola gave Mr. Noe a number
of pictures illustrating how the city's solid waste trucks were damaging the streets. He also said a
number of citizens had requested the Council to issue a resolution on the eminent domain issue. He
said he did not support the use of eminent domain by cities.
Mr. Scott reiterated his request to obtain five-year figures on the crime statistics the Police
Chief presented today in this week's packet. He also asked for any correlation between the crime rate
and unemployment. He asked about the $31,000 reduction in library books included in the proposed
budget. Mr. Noe said the total book budget for the library was $300,000, and staff chose to make
equipment repairs with this small reduction. In response to Mr. Scott's question, Mr. Martinez said
the cost of books was included in the bond sale for the Southside Library.
Mr. Scott asked for an update on the skate park project. Mr. Noe replied staff met with the
engineer, park planning consultant, and Grindline to evaluate the three viable sites in Cole Park.
Director of Parks and Recreation Sally Gavlik added Grindline was supposed to have a
Minutes - Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2005 - Page 22
recommendation within the next two weeks. In response to Mr. Scott's question, Mr. Noe said the
information would not be available in time for the budget discussion. Mr. Noe added there was a
reserve appropriation in the general fund of $200,000 to use for the skate park.
Mr. Chesney asked for estimates on the cost for reinstating city pick-up of opossums but look
at possibly charging a user fee. Mr. Noe replied affirmatively, but noted there was a private company
that would do it for $35.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Garrett adjourned the
Council meeting at 3:12 p.m. on July 12. 2005.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *