HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 07/12/2011MINUTES
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS
Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 - 12:00 p.m.
PRESENT
Mayor Pro Tem Larry Elizondo, Sr.
Council Members:
Kevin Kieschnick
Priscilla Leal
David Loeb
John Marez
Nelda Martinez
Mark Scott
ABSENT
Mayor Joe Adame
Chris Adler
City Staff:
City Manager Ronald L. Olson
City Attorney Carlos Valdez
City Secretary Armando Chapa
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called the meeting to order in the Council Chambers of City Half.
The invocation was delivered by Reverend Rick Barrera with Cornerstone Church and the
Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag was led by Council Member Leal.
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 Pro Tem Elizondo called for approval of the minutes of the regular Council meeting of
June 28, 2011 and Special meeting of June 24, 2011. A motion was made and passed to approve
the minutes as presented.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 2 and the following board appointments were
made:
Cable Communications Commission
Leo Estrada (Reappointed)
Trina Garcia (Appointed)
Drew Reining (Appointed)
C.C. Business & Job Development Corp.
Butch Escobedo (Reappointed)
Robert Bryan Gulley, DDS (Appointed)
Planning Commission
Mark Adame (Reappointed)
Marco Castillo (Appointed)
Gabriel Guerra (Appointed)
Coastal Bend Council of Governments
Rudy Garza (Reappointed)
Bill Hennings (Reappointed)
Oscar Martinez (Appointed as Regular Member)
Richie Quintero (Appointed)
Ron Olson (Appointed)
Armando Chapa (Reappointed, Alternate)
Pat Eldridge (Reappointed, Alternate)
Lawrence Mikolajczyk (Reappointed, Alternate)
Margie Rose (Appointed, Alternate)
Mayor Joe Adame (Reappointed)
Council Member Larry Elizondo (Reappointed)
Council Member Mark Scott (Reappointed)
Council Member John Marez (Appointed)
INDEXED
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 2
Retired & Senior Volunteer Program Advisory Committee
Mildred McDonel (Reappointed)
Senior Companion Program Advisory Committee
Apolonia P. Cantu (Reappointed)
Shirley A. Selz (Reappointed)
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called for consideration of the consent agenda (Items 3 - 16). Mr.
Abel Alonzo requested that Item 13 be pulled for individual consideration. Council Member Martinez
requested that Item 8 be pulled for individual consideration. City Secretary Chapa announced that
Item 12.b. is listed as an emergency ordinance but will be read on two readings. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
3.a. MOTION NO. 2011-143
Motion authorizing the City Manager or designee to accept a grant in the amount of
$761,604 from the Department of Homeland Security FEMA for funding eligible under the
2011 Port Security Grant Program (PSGP) grant.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
3.b ORDINANCE NO. 029113
Ordinance appropriating $761,604 in the No. 1061 Police Grants Fund from the Department
of Homeland Security FEMA for funding eligible under the 2011 Port Security Grant Program
(PSGP) grant to purchase law enforcement equipment for the Police Department.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
4.a. MOTION NO. 2011-144
Motion authorizing the City Manager or designee to accept a grant in the amount of
$570,000 from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Department of Homeland Security
FEMA for funding eligible under the Buffer Zone Protection Program (BZPP) grant.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
4.b. ORDINANCE NO. 029114
Ordinance appropriating $570,000 in the No. 1061 Police Grants fund from the Texas
Department of Public Safety, Department of Homeland Security FEMA for funding eligible
under the Buffer Zone Protection Program (BZPP) to purchase law enforcement equipment
for the police department.
Minutes -- Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 3
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
5.a. RESOLUTION NO. 029115
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute an Interlocal agreement
between the City of Corpus Christi and Nueces County to establish terms for the sharing of
the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program FY 2011 Local
Solicitation.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
5.b. RESOLUTION NO. 029116
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to submit a grant application in the
amount of $212,139 to the U. S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance for
funding eligible under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program
FY 2011 Local Solicitation; 50% of the funds to be distributed to Nueces County under the
established Interlocal agreement. Grant funds will be used for the enhancement of law
enforcement efforts by the Police Department and Nueces County.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
6. ORDINANCE NO. 029117
Ordinance consenting to the assignment of an On Airport Rental Car Concession and Lease
Agreement with Gulf Coast Car Rental, Inc. to EAN Holdings, LLC dba Alamo Rent A Car
and National Car Rental; authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute assignment
and assumption agreement between all parties.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
7. ORDINANCE NO. 029118
Ordinance establishing a water supply development reserve in the No. 4010 Water Fund;
reserving $221,797.53 from Federal Emergency Management Agency, as reimbursement for
Disaster 1425 (Texas 2002 Floods); in the water supply development reserve of the No.
4010 Water Fund; changing the FY 2010-2011 Operating Budget, adopted by Ordinance
No. 028252 by increasing proposed revenues by $221,797.53.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 4
9. RESOLUTION NO. 029120
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute all documents necessary,
including application, to request continued financial assistance for beach cleaning and
maintenance on North Padre Island and Mustang Island during FY 2011-2012 under the
Texas General Land Office's cleaning and maintenance assistance program.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
10. ORDINANCE NO. 029121
Ordinance appropriating $54,309.99 in developer contributions and $1,679.64 in interest
earnings for a sum of $55,989.63 in the No. 4720 Community Enrichment Fund for park
improvements, and other related projects.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
11. ORDINANCE NO. 029122
Ordinance authorizing the resale of five (5) properties for $14,500 which were foreclosed
upon for failure to pay ad valorem taxes, of which the City shall receive $785.60, plus
$2,661.64 for partial payment of City paving and demolition liens.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
12.a. RESOLUTION NO. 029123
Resolution authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute a Second Amendment to
the Interagency Cooperation Contract with the Texas Historical Commission (THC) which
extends the term of the contract through August 31, 2012, and increases the amount of
funding provided by the THC by $42,106 ($35,000 of which is contingent upon future funding
by the Texas Legislature).
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
12.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Ordinance appropriating $42,106 from the Texas Historical Commission ($35,000 of which is
contingent upon future funding by the Texas Legislature) in the No. 1069 Museum Grants
Fund for the complete reinventory of the La Belle artifact collection held at the Corpus Christi
Museum of Science and History.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 5
14. ORDINANCE NO. 029124
Abandoning and vacating a 1,764 square foot portion of a 15 -foot wide public alley right-of-
way, out of Lots 4-7, Block 9, Bay View Addition, said public right of way, being located
between Santa Fe Street and Fifth Street, and north of the Morgan Avenue public street
right-of-way, subject to compliance with the specified conditions. (First Reading 06/28/11)
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its second reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
15. ORDINANCE NO. 029125
Amending the Unified Development Code by replacing tables 1.10.5 and 4.1.1 in their
entirety, adding a provision to the definition of a Dwelling, revising the Landmark
Commission vote requirement at Subsection 3.16.2.B.1, amending a portion of Table
7.2.2.B. regarding indoor recreation, and amending the Urban Transportation Plan Design
Criteria Manual, Appendix to UDC Article 8, by inserting revised Figures 1A and 3 through
13; providing for severance; providing for publication; providing for an effective date and
providing for penalties. (First Reading -- 06/28/11)
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its second reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
16. ORDINANCE NO. 029126
Amending the Code of Ordinances Chapter 14, Article Il, Division 1, Section 14-223 (A) (1)
and adding to Section 14-202 a new definition, all relating to building occupancy; providing
for publication, providing for penalties. (First Reading — 06/28/11)
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its second reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 13 regarding ADA Improvements Group
3. Abel Alonzo, Chairman of the Committee for Persons with Disabilities, asked Engineering staff to
inform the public of this project. Director of Engineering Services Pete Anaya explained that this
project is leveraging bond funds with funds from a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to
construct sidewalks and curb cuts in selected areas. Council Member Leal asked staff to consider
the Manshiem/Sunnybrook Area as a potential ADA improvement area. City Secretary Chapa polled
the Council for their votes as follows:
13. MOTION NO. 2011-145
Motion authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute Amendment No. 1 to the
Contract for Professional Services with CH2MHill of Corpus Christi, Texas in the amount of
$392,323 for a total re -stated fee of $719,038 for the ADA Improvements Group 3 (BOND
ISSUE 2008) and Accessible Routes in CDBG Residential Areas Phase 1. (Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program)
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 6
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 8 regarding the Marina Fuel Station.
Council Member Martinez asked the staff to inform the public about the marina fuel station. Marina
Superintendent Peter Davidson stated that the Marina has been without a fuel station for three (3)
years which has made leasing of boat slips difficult. Mr. Davidson reported that with the assistance
of John Afford with Sundance Fuel, Ltd., a fuel station with specialized equipment is being installed
at the Cooper's Alley L -Head. Mr. Davidson added that the fuel station will have a credit card system
and will be opened seven (7) days a week. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes
as follows:
8. ORDINANCE NO. 029119
Ordinance authorizing the City Manager or designee to execute a five year use permit with
Sundance Fuels, Ltd. for the use of Cooper's Alley L -Head for the purpose of operating a
Marina Fuel Station for monthly rental payments of $200.00.
An emergency was declared, and the foregoing ordinance was passed and approved with
the following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting
"Aye"; Adame and Adler were absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 17 regarding the Capital Budget and Capital
Improvement Planning (CIP) Guide. Assistant City Manager Johnny Perales explained that this item
is a resolution amending the Council Policies relating to the CIP and a public hearing and first
reading of the capital budget.
Interim Director of Financial Services Constance Sanchez presented information on
Resolution No. 028994, which initiated the Council's review and implementation of the revised
polices to govern the adoption of the City's CIP and the use of the commercial paper program; the
actions taken to address the resolution.
Council Member Loeb made a motion to include language in Section 22 that all capital
projects include a statement as to the impact on the operating budget. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Kieschnick. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Leal voting "No"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
Council Member Loeb asked for clarification on Section 23. Ms. Sanchez explained that
Section 23 states that the corresponding utility rate increases will be disclosed in bond language. A
brief discussion ensued regarding the intent of this section, how the CIP projects affect utility rate
increases; and how utility monies will be spent. Assistant City Manager Perales recommended
changing the language from "will" to "may"
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called for comments from the audience on Item 17.a. Abel Alonzo,
1701 Thames, spoke regarding transparency and asked for clarification on the utility costs
associated with bond projects.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 7
Mr. Loeb made a motion to change the language in Section 23 from "will" to "may". The
motion was seconded by Ms. Martinez.
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows on Item 17.a.:
17.a. RESOLUTION NO. 029127
Resolution amending Part II, Council Policies, of the Corpus Christi Code of Ordinances, to
add five policies relating to (1) approval of the Capital Improvement Plan; (2) Capital Project
Strategy; (3) utility costs associated with General Obligation Bond Projects; (4) Utility Capital
Reserve Funds; and (5) Storm Water Capital Projects, in accordance with Resolution No.
028994.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved as amended with the following vote:
Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler
were absent.
Mayor Elizondo opened discussion on Item 17.b. regarding the following public hearing:
17.b. Public hearing and First Reading Ordinance to consider approving the FY 2012 Capital
Budget and Capital Improvement Planning Guide in the amount of $155,970,500.
Assistant City Manager Perales referred to a powerpoint presentation including the capital
budget approach; the capital budget highlights; funding sources by type; funding uses by program;
revenue by type; program expenditures; and the capital budgets for Park and Recreation, Public
Facilities, Public Health and Safety, Streets, Gas, Storm Water, Wastewater, and Water; estimated
water and wastewater rates pr capital projects (CIP) only; storm water impact to water rates; and the
remaining schedule.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: the schedule for the construction
work on Staples Street from Gollihar to Brawner and Williams to Saratoga; the project scope for
Sunfish Island Nourishment and Breakwater projects; utility funding debt; the seawall projects
initiated by the Type A Board to enhance the safety of the seawall; the Barge Dock improvements
and how it would affect the Art Museum; how to address the amount of funds left in the seawall fund,
viable uses of the funds, or consideration to paying the debt off early and going back to the voter to
issue a new 1/8 cents sales tax for street maintenance; preservation of seawall funds for future
maintenance; Corpus Christi Beach New Bathhouse project under review for flood zone
compatibility issues; consideration of a removable bathroom pods for C.C. Beach and Packery
Channel; multiple uses for the utility line at Packery Channel; whether it is cost effective to maintain
the transfer station at J.C. Elliott Landfill; consideration for railing at the seawall; Aquarius Street
project completion; completing the Park Road 22 Bridge design in permitting in 10 -months;
expediting the wastewater City-wide effluent water re -use master plan; the expansion of the
Greenwood Wastewater Treatment Plant; and odor control at the Greenwood Wastewater
Treatment Plant.
There was a general consensus of the Council to direct staff to provide a presentation on the
seawall projects studied and meet with the Type A Board to deliberate the future of the seawall.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 8
A motion was made, seconded and passed to open the public hearing. No one appeared in
opposition to the Capital budget. Mr. Kieschnick made a motion to close the public hearing,
seconded by Ms. Leal, and passed. Mr. Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
17.b. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
To consider approving the FY 2012 Capital Budget and Capital Improvement Planning
Guide in the amount of $155,970,500.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, and Martinez, voting "Aye"; Adame, Adler,
and Scott were absent.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 18 regarding the financial policies for
preparation of the FY2011-2012. Assistant Director of Management & Budget Eddie Houilhan
provided a brief overview of the changes to the financial policies. There were no comments from the
audience. City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
18. RESOLUTION NO. 029128
Resolution amending Financial Policies adopted by Resolution No. 028609 and providing
financial policy direction on preparation of the FY 2011-2012 Budget.
The foregoing resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 19 regarding the adoption of the
FY2012 Operating Budget. Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez explained that this item is the
adoption of the FY2011-2012 operating budget and includes ratifying the increase in property tax
revenues from last year's operating budget.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: the memo received regarding the
estimated 2% increase in property tax values and the legislative change in the TMRS rate and the
effect these changes will have on this budget; when the final appraisal values from the Nueces
County Appraisal District; the September vote on the setting the tax rate; the impact on the three-
year financial plan if the Council choose to maintain the existing tax rate; the Council not
comfortable with voting without a full Council present; recommendations if the Council supported the
effective tax rate including funding for code enforcement, animal control and streets; and the costs
associated with moving the fiscal year dates.
City Manager Olson stated that if in fact the appraisal goes from a -6% to +2%, the only thing
that changes is the tax rate not the budget.
Council Member Marez directed staff to find funds to restore funding to Mental Health/Mental
Retardation (MHMR) in the amount of $54,000. Council Member Leal stated that she would like to
see the senior center hours restored.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 9
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called for comments from the audience. Abel Alonzo, 1701
Thames, spoke regarding the estimated changes to the appraisal values and the initiatives and
changes the City Manager has made. Curt Allen, Garden Senior Center, spoke in support of
restoring the hours of operation for the senior centers and directors. Carrie Robertson, 4401
Gulfbreeze Boulevard, asked the Council to consider parks maintenance and beach cleaning during
the budget process. Abel Chapa, 902 Brock, encourage the Council to reconsider the reduction of
hours at four (4) senior centers. Manuel M. Lopez, Broadmoor Senior Center, also spoke regarding
the reduction of hours at the senior centers. Carlos Torres, President of the Corpus Christi Fire
Fighters Association, addressed the need for a new fire academy. Christine Kailas asked the
Council to reconsider the budget cuts for the Park and Recreation Department and restore the
funding for the Sister City Committee. Rolando Garza spoke regarding the concern for public safety
and lack of firefighters. John Ryan Seaman, Sister City Committee, read a fetter on the impact the
Student Exchange Program had on his life and asked for reconsideration for budgeting Sister City.
Council Member Elizondo spoke regarding the importance of public safety. Council Member
Leal spoke regarding the potential shortage of police and firefighters and asked questions regarding
the timeframe for hiring public safety officers. Council Member Martinez spoke regarding the
previous direction to find funding for the Corpus Christi Symphony. Council Member Loeb spoke
regarding the underfunding of several departments and establishing criteria for accessing the HOT
tax for funding arts programs. Council Member Marez asked questions regarding the cost
associated with a new fire academy and the status of the alternate hiring practice should the fire
contract is not renewed.
Mr. Kieschnick made a motion to table all related budget items to July 19, 2011. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Scott. City Secretary polled the Council for their votes as follows:
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and Adler were
absent.
19.a. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
19.b. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
20. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 10
21.a. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
for publication.
21.b. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
providing for publication.
21.c. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
21.d. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
21.e. TABLED TO JULY 19, 2011
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 22 regarding an amendment to the
Code of Ordinances to decriminalize parking citations. Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez
explained that the purpose of this ordinance is to amend Chapter 53, Traffic Enforcement and
Compliance which decriminalizes the issuance of parking citations.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: parking fee revenues used to
cover cost of administration.
Council Member Scott called for comments from the audience. Abel Alonzo, 1701 Thames,
asked for clarification of this ordinance and whether the decriminalization would affect parking
violations in disabled parking. Assistant City Attorney Trisha Deng explained that this ordinance only
decriminalizes parking violations under this ordinance and parking violations under the
Transportation State Law is still mandated and will be a criminal offense. City Secretary Chapa
polled the Council for their votes as follows:
22. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending Chapter 53, Traffic, Article III. Enforcement and Compliance, and Article Vi,
Standing and Parking of the Corpus Christi Code of Ordinances, by revising various sections
in said articles to make stopping, standing and parking violation a civil offense; to provide for
civil penalties; to create parking improvement fund; to provide parking citation as notice of
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 11
administrative adjudication hearing and create failure to answer citation an admission of
liability; to provide Texas Department of Motor Vehicle's record as prima facie evidence and
presumption owner as violator; to provide an increase in immobilization fee; to create an
office of administrative hearings and appoint hearing officer to conduct administrative
adjudication hearing; to provide an appeal and enforcement of hearing officer's finding; to
provide impoundment and immobilization of motor vehicle for unpaid parking citations; to
create violations to provide for penalties; to provide for publication; to provide for a repealer
clause; and to provide for effective date of October 1, 2011.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved on its first reading with the following
vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Lea, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo opened discussion on Item 23 regarding updating the ordinance
governing parking meter zones and associated rates. Assistant City Manager Oscar Martinez stated
that the City currently has 962 parking meters which are mechanical and electronic and sixty percent
of the equipment is 35-50 years old. Mr. Martinez explained that the proposal is to replace and
upgrade existing parking meters and purchase hand-held ticket writers for parking personnel. Mr.
Martinez addressed the enhancement the charges for parking meters downtown; update of rates
charged for Texas State Aquarium area; the one —year roll out with anticipated revenues of
$667,000 in Year 1; the revenue split over Years 2 & 3 for the purposes designated in the ordinance;
and the creation of the Parking Advisory Committee.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: the general fund recovering cost
from the parking improvement program prior to any revenue split occurring; concern that the public
was not aware of the revenue split occurring after expenses; the meters on Shoreline from
Lawrence to Schatzel and consideration to amend the language to state to the west side of North
Shoreline; the cost to upgrade the meters; the current inventory of meters; requiring Council approve
to expand additional meters or streets that currently have free parking; whether the performa is
based on current number of meters or future expansion; the issues that the Council would approve
and issues that the Parking Advisory Committee would approve; the concerns of Mr. Hoover with
mixed used development and tenant parking and residential representation on the committee;
concerns from the commercial development and businesses; and the membership composition of
the committee, terms and vacancies.
Council Member Marez expressed concern on the Parking Advisory Committee including
residential representation; the term expirations and vacancies; the staff member being the chairman
and the liaison; changing the language to reflect that the council member from the district
representing downtown and North Beach appoint one representative; reducing the number of
appointed representatives from the Corpus Christi Beach Task Force and Uptown Neighborhood
Initiative to one (1); and replacing those two (2) positions to residential owner and residentof the
downtown area.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called for a brief recess on this item to listen to public comment.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo called for petitions from the audience. Mike Edwards, 227 North
Water, spoke regarding the parking meter ordinance and encouraged the Council to vote no on this
issue. In response to Council Member Marez, Mr. Edwards said he supported the ordinance to
improve the technology, the rate changes, and the current locations of parking meters. Tina Butler,
Del Mar College, invited the Council to attend an event held by the Texas Association of Black
Personnel in Higher Education addressing at risk youth with a ceremony being held on July 16th at
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 12
6:30 at Del Mar Richardson Performance Hall and mixer on July 15th at the Retama Room. Colin
Sykes, 309 Aberdeen, spoke regarding reinstating the public comment time to 12:00 noon and
developing "The People's Corner" event to assemble people to discuss topics of interest.
*************
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo returned to the discussion on Item 23 regarding updating the
ordinance governing parking meter zones and rates. Council Member Loeb said the purpose of the
downtown parking program is not to generate revenue but to keep short term parking available to
park close to commercial businesses in an urban environment. Mr. Loeb stated that it is a bad idea
to create a parking system to encourage residential parking on the streets. Mr. Loeb suggested the
creation of a parking pass program for residential parking in the lowest used parking meters. Mr,
Loeb also stated that parking meters should be placed everywhere except Shoreline and if not,
those owners should not be able to receive money from the fund. In response to Mr. Loeb, City
Secretary Chapa stated that the dual service would apply to the committee and representatives from
the DMD could not be board members.
Mr. Scott made a motion to amend the ordinance to only re -meter the existing meter
locations and existing city -owned lots. The motion was seconded by Mr. Kieschnick. A brief
discussion ensued regarding the current locations and expansion of the meters. City Secretary
Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
The foregoing motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Elizondo,
Kieschnick, Leal, Marez, and Scott, voting "Aye"; Loeb and Martinez voting "No"; Adame and
Adler were absent.
There was a consensus of the Council to direct City Secretary Chapa to review the
ordinance, take comments into consideration and come back prior to second reading with
recommendations on the composition of the committee including adding residential representation;
reducing the appointments made by the Corpus Christi Beach Task Force and Uptown
Neighborhood Initiative to one (1); the staff liaison versus chairmanship; and terms.
City Secretary Chapa polled the Council for their votes as follows:
23. FIRST READING ORDINANCE
Amending Chapter 53, Traffic, Article I. Definition, Article II. Administration, Article VI.
Standing and Parking and Article VIII. Schedules of the Corpus Christi Code of Ordinances,
by revising various sections in said articles to provide additional definition; to create and
expand Parking Enforcement Officer duties; to provide installation of parking meters and pay
stations, to provide paid parking spaces and zones and location; to provide time limits on
paid parking spaces and zones; to provide fee and exemptions; to provide parking citation
for parking violation; to establish Parking Advisory Committee; to establish parking zone and
rate; to provide for penalties; to provide for publication; to provide for a repealer clause; and
to provide an effective date of August 1, 2011.
The foregoing ordinance was passed and approved as amended on its first reading with the
following vote: Elizondo, Kieschnick, Leal, Loeb, Marez, Martinez, and Scott, voting "Aye";
Adame and Adler were absent.
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Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 13
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 26 regarding the Nueces County Tax Appraisal
District - Appraisal of Property. Jay Reynolds, Assistant Chief Appraiser of the Nueces County Tax
Appraisal District, introduced Chief Appraiser 011ie Grant, Board Member Sandra Billish, and
Taxpayer Liaison Ken Cones. Mr. Reynolds referred to a powerpoint presentation including topics
for discussion; the appraisal process; primary function of the Appraisal District; mass appraisals vs.
fee appraisals; the tax calendar; how appraisals are performed; categories of properties; example of
residential property appraisal; definitions of property classification and neighborhoods; data
collection; data entry; data analysis; market analysis sales comparables; equity grid; internal quality
controls; sample ratio study report; external quality controls; IAAO standards; property value study
summary report; five-year PVS ratio; and 20 -year home sales versus last 10 year of certified number
presented to City.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: how the appraised values went
from a 6.6% drop to a 2% increase; the negative impact the inaccurate data has had on the City's
budget; the appraised value of a property in Lamar Park; how large appraisals swings in
neighborhoods are determined from one year to the next; illegal home exemptions; providing
preliminary numbers and assumptions; whether the Appraisal District could provide the City the total
aggregate values for each neighborhood; and if the rate increases over the last 11 years is
comparable with other cities.
Mr. Reynolds explained that the error on the appraised values was the result of a new
computer system reporting double the homestead exceptions. Mr. Reynolds took responsibility for
not catching the mistake at the time and since then, has been reviewing the numbers.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 27 regarding the Parks and Recreation Advisory
Committee Annuat Report. Carlos Haney, Park and Recreation Advisory Committee, provided
information on the 2010 activities; the use of social media; Park and Recreations message and
tagline; the Corpus Christi Tennis Association program; membership; volunteers of the Parks
Department; operation and maintenance of parks; the benefits of public parks; a comparison of the
percentage of the budget designated to parks in other cities; and the vitality of parks.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 25 regarding the Sports Entertainment and Arts
(SE) District Traffic Control Chaparral Street Improvements. City Traffic Engineer Charlie Cardenas
introduced Parking Patrol Supervisor Marc Denson; Police Captain Jerry Vesely; and Director of
Operations at SMG Russell Myer. Mr. Cardenas referred to a powerpoint presentation including the
background and layout; issues; pavement marking layout; event traffic control plans; and special
events parking signs. Mr. Denson provided information on the private parking lot codes and
permitting.
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: lot requirements for charging
fees; the purchase of cones and system to set out; timeframe for project; and aggressive parking lot
employees.
Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo referred to Item 27 regarding the status of the Mary Rhodes
Pipeline Phase 2 project. Director of Water Department Gus Gonzalez introduced John Wolfhope,
Anne Carrel, and Ron Guzman with Freese and Nichols who were available to respond to questions.
Mr. Gonzalez referred to a powerpoint presentation including a status update; preliminary
conceptual design; current design; project status; raw water pipeline project status; project schedule;
construction costs; public outreach; and a comparison of water demand scenarios and safe yield
supplies.
Minutes — Regular Council Meeting
July 12, 2011 — Page 14
The following topics pertaining to this item were discussed: drought concerns and the
timeline for construction.
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Note: Council Member Leal requested that the minutes be amended to include comments she
made to Item No. 19 regarding improvements to Masheim/Sunnybrook area. Motion was
made by Council Member Martinez and seconded by Council Member Elizondo to amend the
minutes and passed. Comments were made during discussion on Item 13.
There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Pro Tem Elizondo
adjourned the Council meeting at 6:06 p.m. on July 12, 2011.
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I 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, 2011 which were approved by the City Council
on July 19, 2011.
WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, on this the 19th day of July, 2011.
Armando Chapa
City Secretary
SEAL