HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/15/2008I 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 15, 2008, which were approved by the City
Council on July 29, 2008.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, on this the 29th day of July, 2008.
ia'i—xgrr-
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL
PRESENT
Mayor Henry Garrett
Mayor Pro Tem John Marez
Council Members:
Melody Cooper*
Larry Elizondo, Sr.
Mike Hummell
Bill Kelly
Priscilla Leal
Michael McCutchon
Nelda Martinez
MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 - 10:00 a.m.
City Staff:
City Manager George K. Noe
City Attorney Mary Kay Fischer
City Secretary Armando Chapa
*Arrived at 10:21 a.m.
Mayor Garrett called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Hall.
The invocation was delivered by Reverend Greg Hackett with First United Methodist Church
and the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member John Marez.
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 referred to Item 1 and the following board appointments were made:
Corpus Christi Downtown Management District
George Clower (Appointed)
Wayne Lundquist (Reappointed)
Bill Durrill (Reappointed)
Raymond Gignac (Reappointed)
Wes Hopkins (Reappointed)
Williard Hammonds (Reappointed)
Chad Magill (Reappointed)
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 2 - 10). Mr. Robert
Sarlay requested that Item 2 be pulled for individual consideration. Council members requested that
Items 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 be pulled for individual consideration. City Secretary Chapa polled the
Council for their votes as follows:
3. MOTION NO. 2008-169
Motion approving a service agreement with Heath Consultants, of Houston, Texas for
Natural Gas Leakage Survey Services in accordance with Request for Proposal No. BI -
0169 -08, based on best value for an estimated annual expenditure of $90,580. The term of
the agreement will be for three years. Funding is available in the Gas Operations budget for
FY 2007-2008 and has been requested for FY 2008-2009.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 2
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
8.a. MOTION NO. 2008-172
Motion approving the Arterial Transmission and Grid Main Construction and Reimbursement
Agreement submitted by Turner Industries Group, LLC, owner and developer of Turner
Industries Tract, Block 1, Lot 1 located south of IH -37 Access Road and east of Clarkwood
Road for the installation of 2,322 linear feet of 16 -inch PVC arterial transmission main.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
8.b. ORDINANCE NO. 027759
Ordinance appropriating $319,025.32 from the No. 4030 Water Arterial Transmission & Grid
Main Trust Fund to reimburse Turner Industries Group, LLC for the installation of 2,322
linear feet of 16 -inch PVC arterial transmission main for development of Tumer Industries,
Block 1, Lot 1 as specified in the Arterial Transmission and Grid Main Construction and
Reimbursement Agreement.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Garrett, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
9.a. MOTION NO. 2008-173
Motion approving the Sanitary Sewer Collection Line Extension Construction and
Reimbursement Agreement submitted by Turner Industries Group, LLC, owner and
developer of Turner Industries Tract, Block 1, Lot 1, located south of IH -37 Access Road
and east of Clarkwood Road for the installation of 692 linear feet of 18 -inch PVC sanitary
sewer trunk line.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
9.b. ORDINANCE NO. 027760
Ordinance appropriating $257,884.97 from the No. 4220 Sanitary Sewer Trunk System Trust
Fund to reimburse Turner Industries Group, LLC for the installation of 692 linear feet of 18 -
inch PVC sanitary sewer trunk line for development of Turner Industries, Block 1, Lot 1 as
specified in the Sanitary Sewer Trunk Line Construction and Reimbursement Agreement.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Garrett, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
10. ORDINANCE NO. 027761
Abandoning and vacating a 7,293 -square foot portion (50' wide x 145' long) of an
undeveloped and unsurfaced, dedicated public right-of-way (Charlotte Drive) out of Lot 1,
Block 1, and Lot 1, Block 2, Tropic Heights Unit 2, adjacent to and south of the
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 3
Mediterranean Drive public right-of-way; subject to compliance with the specified conditions.
(First Reading 07108108)
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its second reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye";
Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 2 regarding EMS Billing and Collections Services.
Robert Sarlay, President of Texas Medical Data Systems, ask the Council to reconsider the award
of the contract to Southwest General Services, a non -local firm. Mr. Sarlay spoke regarding the one
point scoring differential on the scoring matrix; Texas Medical Data System's 20 -year billing record
with the City; the local established office; and the difference in the proposed systems. Mr. Sarlay
stated that Texas Medical Data Systems would like to continue to work with the City.
Assistant Director of Financial Services Michael Barrera spoke regarding the Request for
Proposal Process; previous performance by Texas Medical Data Systems; and the concerns with
integration of the systems. Scott Fathergill, CEO of Southwest General Services, spoke regarding
the transition period for the new contract and collections.
Council members asked questions regarding the location of the Texas Medical Data System
office; the difference between Texas Medical Data Services and National Reimbursement Services;
the difference in the total annual costs; the amount of time the City has done business with Texas
Medical Data Systems; concerns with the Texas Medical Data Services system; whether there have
been conflicts with data sharing in the past; whether the main contributing factor of the
recommendation is that Southwest General Services has an integrated system; the services that are
integrated; the number of years for the contract; whether there is opportunity for a bidder to change
their percentage rate once bids have been received; whether the Fire Department is prepared for
the loss of funds collected during the transition period; the nature of the guaranteed revenue;
penalty fees; the guarantee difference from Southwest General Services and Texas Medical Data
Systems; how the criteria for experience of firm and service was determined; whether disregarding
recommendations and the results of the bidding process will have an effect on future contractors
competing for contracts; if Southwest General Services plans on opening a local office; the funding
budgeted for this service; the requirements for the service; how long Southwest has been in
existence; whether Southwest services any cities in South Texas; the members of the evaluation
committee; whether the evaluation team was the same as the previous bidding process; whether the
same evaluation model was used; whether staff reviewed collections percentages, billing processes,
and performance; and the lag in collections.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
2. MOTION NO. 2008-168
Motion approving a service agreement with SouthWest General Services, of Dallas, Texas
for Emergency Medical Services Billing and Collections Services in accordance with
Request for Proposal No. BI -0106-08, based on best value for an estimated annual
expenditure of $297,000. The term of the contract will be for three years with an option to
extend the agreement for up to two additional twelve-month periods subject to the
agreement of the contractor and the City Manager or his designee.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Cooper,
Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Leal voting "No".
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 4
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett referred to Item 15 regarding a presentation on Operation K.E.Y.S. (Keeping
Every Youth in School) — A High School Dropout Recovery Effort. Director of Education Initiatives
JoAnn Hooks introduced the core partnership team members including Corpus Christi Independent
School District (CCISD) Superintendent Scott Elliff, CCISD Director of High School Completion
Monica Bayarena, and the Most Reverend Bishop Edmond Carmody, Diocese of Corpus Christi.
Bishop Carmody thanked the Council for appointing a Director of Education Initiatives.
Bishop Carmody announced that a walk would take place on September 6th to visit the homes of
young people not registered for school this year. Bishop Carmody stated that the initiate to keep
young people in school is important to deal with other challenges in the community including the
problems with homelessness and diabetes.
Ms. Hooks referred to a powerpoint presentation including statistics on the high school
dropout epidemic; the dramatic consequences of dropping out; call of action; and the walk planning.
Ms. Hooks also recognized the committee members that were present. Superintendent Elliff
provided a background of the Operation K.E.Y.S. program in Houston; the results from Houston's
"Reach Out to Dropouts" Walk; the pilot initiative developed by CCISD; the goals of the walk; CCISD
annual dropout rate; and CCISD completion rate. Ms. Bayarena provided information on the walk
teams; events prior to the walk, the day of the walk, and after the walk; and a timeline.
Bishop Carmody challenged Council Member Mike Hummel) to the "Council versus The
Cleric" Racquetball Game to promote the walk to fight diabetes.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 4 regarding the purchase of two carrier mounted
telescopic boom excavators for the Street Department. Council Member McCutchon asked
questions regarding the term to pay of the tax notes and whether the debt transfers to another fund.
City Manager Noe stated that all of the tax notes are paid off between six (6) and seven (7) years,
with the bulk paid off within two years. Mr. Noe explained that debt service is paid out of the debt
service fund and tax notes appropriated out of the general fund. Director of Financial Services Cindy
O'Brien added that once the tax notes are paid off, the equipment becomes a fixed asset for the
Street Department. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
4. MOTION NO. 2008-170
Motion approving the purchase of two (2) Carrier Mounted Telescopic Boom Excavators
from Waukesha -Pearce Industries, Inc., of Corpus Christi, Texas, based on only bid, in
accordance with Bid Invitation No. BI -0190-08 for a total amount of $490,596. The carrier
mounted telescopic boom excavators will be used by the Street Department. The two units
are replacements to the fleet. Funding is available in the Street 2008 Tax Notes Capital
Improvement Project (CIP) Fund.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 5 regarding the establishment of a FICA
alternative plan for temporary and part-time employees. In response to Ms. Leal, Assistant Director
of Financial Services Michael Barrera stated that there would be no cost to the City to enter into this
agreement. Ms. Leal asked whether an employee can continue to put money in this retirement
system if the employee leaves employment with the City. Director of Human Resources Cynthia
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 5
Garcia stated that this retirement program is only during employment with the City and the employee
can withdraw their funds without a penalty. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes
as follows:
5.a. RESOLUTION NO. 027756
Resolution authorizing and establishing a FICA alternative plan under IRC § 457 (B), for
temporary employees and part-time employees who work less than twenty (20) hours per
week.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
5.b. MOTION NO. 2008-171
Motion approving a service agreement with Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Inc., of Dublin,
Ohio for FICA Alternative Plan services, in accordance with Request for Proposal No. BI -
0219 -07. The term of the service agreement will be for five years with an option to extend
for up to two additional twelve-month periods, subject to the approval of the service provider
and the City Manager or his designee.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following votes: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 6 regarding the development of the Nature Center
within the Oso Conservation Interpretive Park on Oso Bay. Council Member Hummel) asked for
information about the Nature Center. Director of Parks and Recreation Sally Gavlik said the Nature
Center will be a completely green building with indoor and outdoor classrooms and an exhibit hall
space for area schools to take the children. Mr. Hummel) asked whether the square footage has
been determined. Ms. Gavlik explained that the square footage is currently 50,000 square -feet but
may be modified. In response to Mr. Hummel), Ms. Gavlik stated that the grant is only for the indoor
facility and the City is matching $750,000 from the Enrichment Program. Council Member Elizondo
asked if the Nature Center was located near the regional park. Ms. Gavlik responded that this area
was located at the opposite end of the regional park. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for
their votes as follows:
6. RESOLUTION NO. 027757
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or his designee to submit a grant application to the
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in the amount of $750,000 for the purpose of
participating in the Local Park Grant Program to develop the Nature Center to be located
within the Oso Conservation Interpretive Park on Oso Bay, with a City match of $750,000 in
the No. 4720 Community Enrichment Fund; dedicating the proposed site for permanent
public park and recreation uses.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Elizondo,
Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Cooper was absent.
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 7 regarding the passenger facility charges for the
Corpus Christi International Airport. Council Member Leal asked for the balance of the unreserved
fund. Director of Aviation Fred Segundo stated that the fund balance was approximately $1.9 million
prior to this transaction. A brief discussion ensued regarding the Airport Board's review of the
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 6
transactions. City Manager Noe said staff would brief the Airport Board of this transaction at their
next meeting and provide the Council with any comments or concerns.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
7. ORDINANCE NO. 027758
Ordinance appropriating $1,856,054 from the unreserved fund balance in Passenger Facility
Charge Fund No. 4621 and transferring and appropriating $1,076,812 into the Airport 2000A
Debt Service Fund No. 4640 and $779,242 into the Airport 2000B Debt Service Fund No.
4641 for debt service on airport improvements; changing the FY 2007-2008 Capital Budget
adopted by Ordinance No. 027546 to increase appropriations by $1,856,054.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummel!, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and
Martinez, voting "Aye".
Mayor Garrett called for a brief recess to present proclamations and listen to public
comment.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett called for petitions from the audience. Rebecca Stroisch, 920 Waco Street,
asked the Council to reinstate the ADA inspector position and reconsider cutting the intake position
in the Human Relations Department. Pat Suter, 1002 Chamberlin, thanked the Council for their
appointments to the Clean Cities Committee and Council Member Martinez for emphasizing
recycling. Ms. Suter asked the Council to show their commitment to recycling prior to the April
election. Mike Staff, Corpus Christi Police Officers Association, invited the Council to attend an
informal seminar to allow their consultant to provide their findings. Mr. Staff asked the Council to
table the health care budget until the POA and Firefighters Associations' consultant can make a
presentation to the City Council. Mr. Staff also spoke regarding GASB 45.
Carlos Torres, President of the Corpus Christi Firefighters Association, asked the Mayor or
five council members to place an item on the agenda to allow the Associations' consultant to
present their findings to the Council. Roland Garza spoke regarding council compensation and the
areas excluded from the proposed bond proposal. Jaime Valdez, EEOC Headquarters, spoke
regarding the elimination of the intake officer in the Human Relations Department. J.E. O'Brien,
4130 Pompano, spoke regarding the budget public hearing and requested that the Council schedule
a time certain when adopting the budget and setting the tax rate. Bob Algeo, 15629 Three Fathoms,
spoke regarding metal theft; burning of wooden pallets at the beach; and using the sea turtle as the
logo on the water tower. David Loeb, 921 Chaparral, thanked the Council for including the Memorial
Coliseum, ADA improvements downtown, and wayfinding in the proposed bond issue. Mr. Loeb also
spoke regarding the need for a third pump station and an overlay for Water Street. Heidi Hodva,
Downtown Management District, also addressed the need for a third pump station downtown.
Rene Saenz, 6022 Sweet Gum, thanked Director of Education Initiatives JoAnn Hooks for
today's presentation and spoke regarding the increase in insurance rates for police and fire. Jerry
Garcia, President of the Southside Youth Sports Complex, spoke regarding organizations eligible for
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding and including the Greenwood Sport Complex
in the proposed bond issue. Jimmy Escareno, President of Westside Little League, stated that the
City had sent two letters requesting that the fields be improved to playable condition within 90 days
and termination of the lease. Mr. Escareno added that the fields are in playable condition and
provided photos showing the maintenance of the fields. Rick Reyes, Westside Little League,
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 7
requested that the league keep their lease. Mr. Reyes provided a handout of photos showing the
condition of other youth complexes and stated that the Westside fields are in great shape and
playable condition. Moses Leyba, 4254 Archdale, stated that the pictures of Westside Little League
that were presented at the previous meeting were misleading. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames, stated
that he was upset by a comment made that the Hispanic community is misrepresented.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett announced the executive sessions, which were listed on the agenda as
follows:
17. Executive session under Texas Government Code Section 551.071 regarding Arnulfo
Garcia vs. City of Corpus Christi; Civil Action No. 06-198; In the United States District Court,
with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session.
18. Executive session under Section 551.072 of the Texas Government Code to deliberate the
purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property — a 7.197 -acre tract of land out of Lot
12, Section 31, Flour Bluff and Encina) Farm and Garden Tracts, for the South Guth Ball
Field Relocation Project, with possible discussion and action related thereto in open session.
19. Executive Session under Texas Government Code Section 551.071 to conduct a private
consultation with its attorney regarding the City's water supply contract with Nueces County
Water Control and Improvement District #4, with possible discussion and action in open
session.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett recessed the regular Council meeting to hold a meeting of the Corpus Christi
Community Improvement Corporation (CCCIC).
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett reconvened the Regular Council Meeting. Mayor Garrett referred to Item 11,
and a motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing on the following zoning
case:
Case No. 0608-02, Eloy Salazar and Ricardo Martinez: A change of zoning from "F -R"
Farm -Rural District on Tract 1 to an "1-2" Light Industrial District resulting in a change of land
use from agricultural to light industrial use and a change of zoning from "F -R" Farm -Rural
District on Tract 2 to "B-4" General Business District resulting in a change of land use from
agricultural use to commercial use on property described as being 8.012 acres (Tract 1) out
of Lots 25 and 26, Section 21, Flour Bluff Encina) Farm and Garden Tracts, located south of
Rodd Village and west of the future extension of Rodd Field Road and 18.092 acres (Tract
2) out of Lots 8 and 9, Section 22, Flour Bluff Encinal Farm and Garden Tracts, located
south of Rodd Village and west of the future extension of Rodd Field Road.
City Secretary Chapa stated that the Planning Commission and staff recommended approval
of the "1-2" Light Industrial District on Tract 1 and approval of the "B-4" General Business District on
Tract 2.
No one appeared in opposition to the zoning change. Mr. Marez made a motion to close the
public hearing, seconded by Ms. Cooper, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes
as follows:
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 8
11. ORDINANCE NO. 027762
Amending the Zoning Ordinance, upon application by Eloy Salazar and Ricardo Martinez, by
changing the Zoning Map in reference to 8.012 acres (Tract 1) out of Flour Bluff Encinal
Farm and Garden Tracts, Lots 25 and 26, Section 21, from "F -R" Farm -Rural District to "1-2"
Light Industrial District and 18.092 acres (Tract 2) of Flour Bluff Encinal Farm and Garden
Tracts, Lots 8 and 9, Section 22, from "F -R" Farm -Rural District to "B-4" General Business
District; amending the Comprehensive Plan to account for any deviations from the existing
Comprehensive Plan; providing a repealer clause; providing a penalty; providing for
publication.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummel!, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, and Marez,
voting "Aye"; Martinez was absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 12 regarding the first reading to adopt the FY2008-
2009 operating budget and ratifying the increase in property tax revenues from last year's operating
budget. Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez referred to a powerpoint presentation including the
proposed amendments to the general fund; the revised adjustments to the general fund projected
fund balance; the summary of proposed fund balances for the enterprise funds, internal service
funds, debt service funds, and special revenue funds; and the budget calendar. Mr. Martinez
recommended that a motion be made to amend the original budgeted amount of $654,498,684 to
$654,740,297 to include the proposed amendments.
Council members asked questions regarding the possibility for an increase for city
employees; whether the proposed employee raise would be considered on July 22"d; whether the
water tap fees are incorporated in this budget; whether an increase for the Downtown Management
District would be a potential item; providing ambulance service full time on the island; the number of
fire engines on the island; whether 4 -wheel drive fire vehicles on the beach are equipped with the
proper equipment; whether the budget sets the tax rate; the change in the budget cycle; staffing in
the Fire Department to cover additional ambulances; the attrition rate for the Fire Department; the
general obligation debt service fund; whether the seawall improvement fund can be used for seawall
related costs; whether the seawall debt will be retired early; the expected remaining debt for the
seawall in 2013; the amount of interest paid annually for all the City's obligations; a four (4) daywork
week; the time taken from the Human Relation director to do the work of the ADA inspector and the
impact to the department; municipal court judges salaries; vacancies citywide; the number of frozen
positions; the effect of three frozen positions to the budget; the representatives from the Volunteer
Center supervising people doing community service at Municipal Court; the number of vacant or
frozen positions that are the same level as the Human Relation department position; and ways to
offset increased costs.
Ms. Cooper made a motion to amending the FY2008-2009 proposed budget by increasing
Code Enforcement - $217,733; Sister City - $17,943; Marina Advertising $22,000; and Arts
Subgranting - $18, 067; and reducing the citizen survey -$5,000 and the Chief of Staff position -
$29,130 for a new total amount of $654,740,297. The motion was seconded by Ms. Martinez and
passed.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 9
City Manager Noe said that staff would provide information on options for funding the
proposed employee increase. There was a general consensus of the Council to direct staff to bring
back a funding plan or alternatives funding sources for the Volunteer Center.
Mayor Garrett called for comments from the audience. Abel Alonzo, Chairman for the
Committee for Persons with Disabilities, spoke regarding the Intake and ADA investigator positions
for the Human Relations Department and asked the Council to consider the safety of the disabled
community. Mike Staff, 3122 Leopard, asked questions regarding the funding earmarked for GASB
45 and the amortized payment. Carlos Torres, President of the Corpus Christi Firefighters
Association, asked questions regarding the 4% salary increase recommended for firefighters and
whether there was a salary comparison done of other cities.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
12.a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Adopting the City of Corpus Christi budget for the ensuing Fiscal Year beginning August 1,
2008; to be filed with the County Clerk; appropriating monies as provided in the budget.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved as amended on its first reading with the
following vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and
Martinez, voting "Aye".
12.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance to ratify increase of $5,150,870 in Property Tax Revenues from last year's
Operating Budget as reflected in the FY 2008-2009 Operating Budget.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye".
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 13 regarding the Compensation and Classification
Plan for FY2008-2009. Director of Human Resources Cynthia Garcia provided a list of
recommended amendments to the compensation and classification plan including eliminating of the
definition of City Manager, full-time, part-time and temporary employees; adding Park and
Recreation operations skill based pay program; adjusting the minimum wage increase to reflect
upcoming changes; adjusting ranges for Police Commander; implementation of a career land for
attorneys and information technology; adjustments to the identification department salary structures;
clarifying the definition of full-time, part-time, and temporary employees; elimination of coverage for
part-time employees in the health program and grandfathering employees that currently have these
benefits; clarifying holiday, leave benefits, buyback benefits, and sick leave accrual eligibility, plan II
provisions; clarifying and correcting military leave; and clarifying nepotism language.
Mayor Garrett called for comments from the audience. Mike Staff, Corpus Christi Police
Officers Association, spoke regarding the pay salary for crime scene investigators, finger print
examiners, and police commanders.
Council members asked questions regarding the health plan coverage and the crime scene
investigator career ladder changes.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 10
Ms. Garcia stated that Section 39-309(a) should be amended to include the implementation
of the alternate choice plan for Citicare. Ms. Martinez made a motion to amend Section 39-309. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Elizondo and passed.
There were no comments from the audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for
their votes as follows:
13. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 39, Personnel, Article III, Employee
Compensation and Classification System, to revise definitions of Full-time and Part-time
Employees, add Parks and Recreation skill -based pay grades, revise Step Pay Rates for
Metro -Com Technician, revise Minimum Wage, revise Police Management pay range, add
Attorney Career Ladder, add Information Technology Career Ladder, designate FICA
Alternative Plan participation by Temporary Employees, revise Part -Time Employee Eligibility
and participation in (1) Group Hospitalization (2) Term Life Insurance (3) Disability Insurance
(4) Holiday, Sick, Bereavement, Vacation and other leave; clarify Airport Safety Officer
eligibility in Vacation Leave Accrual; modify Sick Leave "cash -in" provision; provide that
Employee may use Bereavement Leave in death of Son -in -Law, Daughter -in -Law, and Step -
Parent; to provide for 15 -day paid Military Leave in one calendar year; to amend Nepotism
Section to (1) prohibit Department Head hiring or review of Employee Son -in -Law, Daughter -
in -Law, (2) clarify Spouse's relatives, and (3) add provision to continue relationship by affinity
despite divorce or death if Child of Marriage is living; to combine Plan I and Plan II Personal
Leave into one plan; to combine Plan I and Plan II Bereavement Leave into one plan;
repealing all other ordinances, and rules, or parts of ordinances and rules, in conflict with
this ordinance; providing for an effective date.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved as amended on its first reading with the
following vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummel', Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and
Martinez, voting "Aye".
Mayor Garrett opened discussion on Item 14 regarding fee and rate increases in support of
the FY2008-2009 proposed budget. Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez announced that Item
14.e. was withdrawn by staff. Mr. Martinez provided a brief summary of the proposed rates including
proposed solid waste resources recovery fees; solid waste cart delivery fees; repealing the
nonresident library fee; library photocopy fees; reinstating a library collection fee; utility rate
increases for water, gas, and wastewater; the cost of service model for water revenues; storm water
services; gas commercial meter fees; wastewater fees; revising annual well inspection fees;
recovery of electrical services fees for marina slips; and fees for athletic programs.
Council members asked questions regarding whether the executive session discussion on
municipal water rates will be effected with the passage of the utility rate fees; the timeframe for the
mediation process with the Nueces County Water District; the reduction of meter charges for outside
city limit customers; and utility recovery fees for the marina.
Mayor Garrett called for comments from the audience. Charlie Zahn, Nueces County Water
District, asked that the mediation timeframe be extended for longer than 60 days. Mr. Zahn thanked
the Council for their willingness to allow the district to resolve the water rate issues.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 11
14.a. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Codes of Ordinances, Chapter21, Article IV, Section 21-40, by revising solid
waste resource recovery fees; enacting a cart delivery fee; providing an effective date;
providing for publication; and providing for penalties.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye".
14.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 2, Section 2-79 "Fees", by repealing the annual
nonresident library fee; providing for a library photocopy fee of $0.15 per page, and
reinstating a library collection fee of $10 for accounts referred to collection; providing for an
effective date; and providing for publication.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye".
14.c. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Chapter 55, Utilities, regarding
Water, Gas and Wastewater rates and fees; providing for an effective date; and providing for
publication.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting
"Aye"; Leal voting "No".
14.d. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 35, Article V, Section 35-117, Entitled "Annual
Well Inspections", by revising the fees; providing for an effective date; providing for
publication and providing for penalties.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Garrett, Cooper, Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez,
voting "Aye".
44.e. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
14.f. RESOLUTION NO.
Resolution authorizing adjustment of parks, recreation, cultural and leisure time activities
rental and recreational fees; adding new rental fees and recreational fees for Fiscal Year
2008-2009; providing for publication; providing for an effective date.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 15, 2008 — Page 12
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Garrett, Cooper,
Elizondo, Hummell, Kelly, Leal, McCutchon, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye".
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Mayor Garrett referred to Item 16 regarding the Bond Issue 2008 update. City Manager Noe
referred to a powerpoint presentation including a background of the process; additional projects;
projects deleted or modified; overall costs; and next steps.
Council members asked questions regarding the status of the Crosstown Commons project;
whether the Crosstown Commons land has been purchased; whether Ocean Drive was eligible for
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) participation; the Metropolitan Planning
Organization's process for changing TxDOT projects; the two phases for Williams Drive; widening
Williams Drive; the drainage on Williams Drive; whether Kostoryz will receive additional turning
lanes; bike and pedestrian improvements on Kostoryz; the type of street that Manshiem is
considered; whether residential streets are included in the project; setting a timeline for completing
projects; public notification of the Bond issue; the affects of inflation on projects; Phase 111 of the
Bayfront Master Plan project; the timeframe to complete Phase 1 ofthe Bayfront Master Plan project;
the mitigation for Laguna Shores; plans and locations for the hike and bike trails; pay as you go
financing; issuing debt; bond counsel and financial advisor fees; the reason that the financial fees
for Packery Channel issuances were more expensive; the reason that Coastal Securities was used
for the Packery Channel issuances; the reason that M.E. Allison was not used as the advisor for the
Packery Channel issuance; the underwriters for other bonds; whether the reissue of Packery
Channel bonds was private placement; conversion to government bonds; the City's Bond Counsel;
whether lawyer fees are based upon the size of the issuance; whether the Legal Department
reviews bond counsel fees; the reason that financial advisors are not selected by a comparable bid
process; risks associated with the bond issues; the size and location of the Coastal Securities firm;
whether the bond counsel is paid a percentage of the bond issue; the comparison of bond counsel
payments; whether there is any recourse on the bond issues; recycling asphalt; whether residential
areas will be considered in future bond issues; the costs for roads and infrastructure in the 2004
Bond issue; whether there are ways to accelerate road improvements; the timeframe for the
construction of the Oso Creek/Oso Bay Area Park Development; whether there is a design for the
Oso Park Development; the location for the beginning construction of the Oso Park Development;
whether there is grant funding for the Oso Creek trail system; the reason for not submitting grants
for the trail system; and the use of outside the city limit contractors.
Council Member Marez recommended that public comment on the Bond issue scheduled for
August 12th begin at 5:00 p.m. Council Member McCutchon requested a list of the principals at
Coastal Securities.
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There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Garrett adjourned the
Council meeting at 5:44 p.m. on July 15, 2008.
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