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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes City Council - 08/25/2020I 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 August 25, 2020 which were approved by the City Council on September 8, 2020. WITNESSETH MY HAND AND SEAL, on this the 8th day of September 2020. (S E A L) ,e-1,3e-cze, .arzi Rebecca Huerta City Secretary Corpus Christi, Texas City of Corpus Christi Rebecca Huerta, City Secretary P.O. Box 9277 Corpus Christi, Texas 78469-9277 (361) 826-3105 rebeccah@cctexas.com SCANNED City of Corpus Christi Meeting Minutes City Council 1201 Leopard Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 cctexas.com Tuesday, August 25, 2020 10:00 AM Council Chambers Addendums may be added on Friday. A. Mayor Joe McComb to call the meeting to order. Mayor McComb called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m. B. Invocation to be given by Mayor Joe McComb. Mayor McComb gave the invocation. C. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States and to the Texas Flag. Mayor McComb led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States and the Texas Flag. D. City Secretary Rebecca L. Huerta to call the roll of the required Charter Officers. City Secretary Rebecca L. Huerta called the roll and verified that a quorum of the City Council and the required Charter Officers were present to conduct the meeting. Charter Officers: City Manager Peter Zanoni, City Attorney Miles K. Risley and City Secretary Rebecca L. Huerta. Note: Council Members Roland Barrera, Greg Smith and Ben Molina participated by video conference. Council Member Michael Hunter participated telephonically. Present: 9 - Mayor Joe McComb,Council Member Roland Barrera,Council Member Rudy Garza,Council Member Paulette Guajardo,Council Member Gil Hernandez,Council Member Michael Hunter,Council Member Ben Molina,Council Member Everett Roy, and Council Member Greg Smith E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 1. Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code § 551.071 and Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 1.05 to consult with attorneys concerning legal issues related to matters involving water towers, water pressure, equipment replacement schedules, and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regulations relating to the provision of water, minimum pressure requirements, water minimum alternative capacity requirements, and other related regulatory matters. City of Corpus Christi Page 1 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 This E -Session Item was discussed in executive session. F. PUBLIC COMMENT - AUDIENCE AND PRESENTER SOCIAL DISTANCING AND PUBLIC TESTIMONY AND PUBLIC HEARING INPUT AT PUBLIC MEETINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL. To reduce the chance of COVID-19 transmission, public meetings will be held in a manner intended to separate, to the maximum practical extent, audience and presenters from personal contact with members of Community, City Staff, and City Council. This meeting will be broadcast at cctexas.com/services/council meeting -agendas -minutes -video. Public testimony and public hearing input for Public Comment and all items on the agenda at public meetings of the City Council should be provided in written format and presented to the City Secretary and/or designee no later than five minutes after the start of each meeting of the City Council. Testimony and/or public input shall be in accordance with the City Secretary's instructions, which shall be posted on the City Secretary's door and on the City website, and allow for electronic submission. The written public testimony shall be provided to members of City Council prior to voting on measures for that meeting. Written testimony shall be limited in accordance with the City Secretary requirements and shall be placed into the record of each meeting. This testimony shall serve as the required public testimony pursuant to Texas Government Code 551.007 and shall constitute a public hearing for purposes of any public hearing requirement under law. The meeting may be held telephonically or via videoconference. The public may participate remotely by following the instructions of the City Secretary at cctexas.com/departments/city-secretary. Mayor McComb referred to comments from the public. The following citizens submitted written public comments which are attached to the minutes: Bob Paulison, 15821 Almeria Ave.; John LaRue, 602 N. Staples St.; Carrie Robertson Meyer, 4401 Gulfbreeze Blvd.; Brian Williams; Shelley Tinsley, 613 Hoffman St.; Alissa Mejia, 41 Camden PI.; and Nancy Hunt, 6162 Misty Meadow. The following citizens called in: Melissa Zamora, 3917 Brawner Pkwy.; Julie Rogers, 710 Furman Ave.; Brittany Garcia, 3214 Brawner Pkwy.; and Sylvia Campos, 4410 Fir St. - spoke in opposition to Item 19. Moses Mostaghasi, 8017 Barley Dock; and Bobak Mostaghasi, 8017 Barley Dock - spoke in support of Items 13 and 14. G. CITY MANAGER'S COMMENTS / UPDATE ON CITY OPERATIONS: Mayor McComb referred to City Manager's Comments. City Manager Peter Zanoni reported on the following preparations for Hurricanes Marco and Laura. 1) Removal of Targe items from local beaches. 2) Public Works has positioned barricades in different areas of the City. 3) TXDOT is prepared to close down the JFK Causeway if necessary. City of Corpus Christi Page 2 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 Council Members and City Manager Zanoni discussed the following topics: sandbags will be stored in a warehouse throughout the hurricane season; brush pick-up related to Hurricane Hanna should be complete in about two weeks; and the schedule for brush pick-up is on the City's website. a. GOVERNMENT ACTIONS RELATED TO CORONA VIRUS Director of Public Health District Annette Rodriguez presented an update on COVID-19: COVID-19 cases by months; COVID-19 statistics as of 8/24/2020; COVID-19 death by months; COVID-19 deaths by weeks in July; COVID-19 deaths by weeks in August; COVID-19 hospitalization risk; COVID-19 recoveries -plasma donation; school year 2020 -2021 -safe return; pooling samples; and COVID-19 compliance inspections -retail establishments. H. MINUTES: 2. Regular Meeting of August 18, 2020 A motion was made by Council Member Hernandez, seconded by Council Member Garza that the Minutes be approved. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. I. BOARD & COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS: 3. Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Mayor McComb referred to Item 3. Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Council Member Molina made a motion to reappoint Amy McCoy and Twila Stevens, seconded by Council Member Smith and passed unanimously. Council Member Hernandez nominated Luis Reyes Sr. Council Member Guajardo nominated Jacob Dryden. Council Member Smith nominated Lawrence Heatley. Council Member Molina nominated Diego Solis. Jacob Dryden, Lawrence Heatley and Diego Solis were appointed with Council Members Hunter, Molina, Barrera, Smith and Guajardo voting for Jacob Dryden, Lawrence Heatley and Diego Solis. Council Member Hernandez voted for Luis Reyes. Council Member Roy voted for Luis Reyes, Jacob Dryden ad Lawrence Heatley, and Mayor McComb and Council Member Garza voted for Luis Reyes, Lawrence Heatley and Diego Solis. J. EXPLANATION OF COUNCIL ACTION: K. CONSENT AGENDA: (ITEMS 4 -12) Consent - Second Reading Ordinances Approval of the Consent Agenda Mayor McComb referred to the Consent Agenda. City of Corpus Christi Page 3 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 4. 5. 6. Council Members discussed Items 7, 10 and 12. A motion was made by Council Member Garza, seconded by Council Member Guajardo to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 9 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Abstained: 0 Ordinance approving a five-year Business Incentive Agreement between the Corpus Christi B Corporation and the United Service Organization of South Texas ("USO") in the amount of $250,000 for the creation and retention of jobs and improvements to the facility leased to the USO by the United States Navy, effective upon signature of the City Manager or designee; appropriating funds in the amount of $250,000 from the Type B Economic Development Fund; and amending the budget. This Ordinance was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032187 Consent - Contracts and Procurement Motion authorizing three, three-year service agreements, for mowing, maintenance and securing of non -code compliant properties for Code Enforcement, with each of the following vendors: J.M. Perez and Grandsons LLC of Portland, TX, Richard Herrera, Jr., dba R.H. Construction & Mowing of Corpus Christi, TX, and Luz Alicia Sierra Leal dba Alicia's Lawn Service of Corpus Christi, TX, in an amount not to exceed $150,000.00 for each contract, for a total not to exceed amount of $450,000, with FY 2020 funding in an amount of $8,333.33 available from the General Fund and Community Development Block Grant Fund. This Motion was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: M2020-144 Consent - Capital Projects Motion awarding a Professional Services Contract for design and construction administration services for Lifecycle Curb and Gutter Replacement Program to ECMS, LLC of Corpus Christi, TX, for one-year in an amount up to $100,000 with two one-year renewal options to be administratively authorized for a total amount not to exceed $300,000, with projects located Citywide, and with FY 2020 funding available from the Storm Water Capital Reserve Fund. City of Corpus Christi Page 4 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 7. This Motion was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: M2020-145 General Consent Items Resolution approving a transfer of allocation of $3,200,000 from the City of Corpus Christi's $17,960,470 Coronavirus Relief Fund established by the CARES Act to Nueces County for expenses related to the prevention, preparation for, and response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. Mayor McComb referred to Item 7. A Council Member discussed the City's transfer of funds established by the CARES Act to Nueces County for expenses related to COVID-19. This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032188 8. Resolution amending and reaffirming the City of Corpus Christi's Investment Policy and Investment Strategies for Fiscal Year 2020-2021. This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032189 9. Resolution authorizing participation in the TexPool Investment Pools and designating authorized representatives and approving participation agreement This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032190 10. Resolution authorizing the City's intent to provide a total of up to $752,000 from the City's Coronavirus Relief Fund allocation, through the CARES Act, to Corpus Christi Independent School District and Flour Bluff Independent School District ($715,000 and $37,000, respectively) as matching funds for the purchase of computer equipment necessary to facilitate compliance with COVID-19 related public health measures and tele -learning. Mayor McComb referred to Item 10. Council Members and City Manager Peter Zanoni discussed the following topics: other school districts that will seek funding from the City include Calallen ISD and London ISD. This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032191 11. Resolution adopting a substantial amendment to the City of Corpus City of Corpus Christi Page 5 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 Christi's FY2019-2020 Consolidated Annual Action Plan (CAAP), previously adopted by Ordinance No. 031814, for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and the HOME Investment Partnerships Programs funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and authorizing the execution of all documents necessary to implement the Substantial Amendment to the FY2019-2020 with outside organizations. This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032192 12. Resolution authorizing a two-year lease of 3.0 acres off Rincon Road from the Texas General Land Office ("GLO") for $10,000 annual payment to the GLO with option to extend for an additional two-year term, to be used for storage of reefing material to be used in constructing an offshore artificial reef in the Gulf of Mexico. Mayor McComb referred to Item 12. Council Members and City Manager Peter Zanoni discussed the following topics: a Council Member stated that this is a good news item and is in favor of this item; and this item is a financial benefit for the Cole Park Pier. This Resolution was passed on the consent agenda. Enactment No: 032193 L. RECESS FOR LUNCH The recess for lunch was held from 1:31 p.m. to 2:03 p.m. M. PUBLIC HEARINGS: (ITEMS 13 - 15) 13. Ordinance annexing approximately 385 acres of land at or near the intersection of FM 43 and CR 33 into the territorial limits of the City of Corpus Christi. Mayor McComb referred to Item 13. Assistant Director of Planning & Environmental Services Dan McGinn presented information on the following topics: background; aerial overview of annexation tract; aerial overview of area infrastructure; and staffs recommendation to approve the petition for annexation. Council Members and Assistant Director McGinn discussed the following topics: a Council Member's concern regarding storm water drainage system on the south side of town; and that the developer is interested in creating a TIRZ for this project. Mayor McComb opened the public hearing. There were no written comments from the public. City of Corpus Christi Page 6 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 Mayor McComb closed the public hearing. Council Member Barrera made a motion to approve the ordinance, seconded by Council Member Hunter. This Ordinance was passed on first reading and approved with the following vote: Aye: 8 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina and Council Member Smith Abstained: 1 - Council Member Roy 14. Zoning Case No. 0720-01, Bobak Mostaghasi (District 3). Ordinance rezoning property at or near the intersection of FM 43 and CR 33 from the "FR" Farm Rural District to the "CN -1" Neighborhood Commercial District and "CG -2" General Commercial District. (Planning Commission Recommendation: Approval of the "CG -2" General Commercial District and "CN -1" Neighborhood Commercial District; Staff Recommendation: Approval of the "CG -2" General Commercial District, denial of the "CN -1" Neighborhood Commercial District and, in lieu, approval of the "ON" Neighborhood Office District. Mayor McComb referred to Item 14. Director of Development Services Al Raymond presented information on the following topics: aerial overview; zoning pattern; Planning Commission recommends approval of the "CG -2" and "CN -1"; and staff recommends approval of "CG -2" and denial of the "CN -1" and, in lieu, approval of the "ON". Council Members and Director Raymond discussed the following topics: staff recommends denial of the "CN -1" because they believe the "ON" is a better buffer and neighbor than "CN -1". Mayor McComb opened the public hearing. There were no written comments from the public. Mayor McComb closed the public hearing. Council Member Barrera made a motion to approve the ordinance based on Planning Commission's recommendation, seconded by Council Member Hunter. This Ordinance was passed on first reading and approved with the following vote: Aye: 7 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina and Council Member Smith Abstained: 2 - Council Member Garza and Council Member Roy 15. Zoning Case No. 0620-02, One Rail Group, LLC. (District 3). Ordinance rezoning property at or near 501 Heinsohn Road from the "FR" Farm Rural District and "IL" Light Industrial District to the "IL" City of Corpus Christi Page 7 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 Light Industrial District. Planning Commission and Staff recommend Approval. Mayor McComb referred to Item 15. Director of Development Services Al Raymond presented information on the following topics: aerial overview; zoning pattern; and staff and Planning Commission's recommendation. There were no comments from the Council. Mayor McComb opened the public hearing. There were no written comments from the public. Mayor McComb closed the public hearing. Council Member Barrera made a motion to approve the ordinance, seconded by Council Member Smith. This Ordinance was passed on first reading and approved with the following vote: Aye: 9 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Abstained: 0 N. RECESS TO CORPORATION MEETINGS: (ITEMS 16 - 17) 16. Special Board Meeting of the Corpus Christi Housing Finance Corporation regarding an Investment Services Agreement. This Corporation Meeting was held. 17. North Padre Island Development Corporation Annual Meeting This Corporation Meeting was held. O. RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING: P. REGULAR AGENDA: (ITEMS 18 -19) 18. Motion approving Amendment No. 3 with Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi to provide professional services in the amount of $156,472.00 for a total contract value not to exceed $401,451.00 for Packery Channel Monitoring, to provide guidance following damage during Hurricane Hanna, located in City Council District 4, with funds available from Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2 Capital Fund. Mayor McComb referred to Item 18. Assistant City Manager Keith Selman presented the following information: this item was discussed during the TIRZ #2 meeting and Board Members authorized City of Corpus Christi Page 8 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 the expenditures as a corporation. There were no comments from the Council. Council Member Smith made a motion to approve the motion, seconded by Council Member Molina. This Motion was passed and approved with the following vote: Aye: 9 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Abstained: 0 Enactment No: M2020-146 19. Resolution authorizing the execution and approval of a Financing Agreement between the City of Corpus Christi and the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) related to the City's issuance, sale, and delivery of City Utility System Junior Lien Revenue Improvement Bonds in an amount not to exceed $11,425,000 to the TWDB with proceeds of said bonds to be used for a city desalination project and other matters in connection therewith. Mayor McComb referred to Item 19. Director of Water Utilities Kevin Norton presented information on the following topics: drought resilient; financial agreement strategy; TWDB loan; breakdown of the $11,425,000; 2013-2017 update; 2017-2020 update; 500,000 customers; City of Corpus Christi water supply chart; 75% trigger point chart; water demands; consumption by customer type; 2021-2029 high to low rate impact per month; next steps; and staffs recommendation. Council Members, City Manager Peter Zanoni, Director Norton, and Water Resource Manager Steve Ramos discussed the following topics: a Council Member is not against desalination, but does not agree with the process without any other cost options and information made available; a Council Member's request to see the rate model analysis; if desalination is the best option after considering other options, then a concern is the environmental impact; selling brine is not a viable option, it is more cost effective to put it back into the Bay; a Council Member's request for a public meeting to inform the public about the desalination project, and allow for public input; public participation is highly important, as is determining the impact on the taxpayers; there is not enough information available to make a decision to move forward with this project; the City's website has all the information available to the public; a Council Member's concern regarding the 75% trigger point chart; the timeline is based on the timing of the two agreements made with Steel Dynamics and Exxon; the cost of desalination would be lower if we had higher utilization of our water resources, and would lower the overall cost of water; the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) grant has a deadline of September 8, 2020; the City has an obligation because of the $2 million that has already been approved; the importance for the City to get a permit; there is a lot of misinformation on social media; this is just a step in the process before the project begins; the City has been in an industrial agreement since 2018; the industry is paying 60% of the debt service; CC Polymer has a plant City of Corpus Christi Page 9 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 that is already built, so there is no need to overpay for desalination; the City has been trying to find a water supply for our region since 2001; the number one priorities for the City are an uninterruptible water supply, streets and wastewater; the importance of this project for the future of the City; if the City borrows $11,000,000 today, the impact on the water rate is zero; the debt service is built into the current rate; the debt service for the $11,000,000 is $100,000; and a Council Member stated this project is an $11,000,000 risk for the City without approved permits. Council Member Hunter made a motion to approve the resolution, seconded by Council Member Barrera. This Resolution was passed and approved with the following vote: Aye: 6 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Nay: 3 - Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo and Council Member Hernandez Abstained: 0 Enactment No: 032194 Q. FIRST READING ORDINANCES: (ITEMS 20 - 22) 20. Motion authorizing an 18 -month service agreement with Halff Associates, Inc. of Richardson, Texas for a total amount not to exceed $273,789.00 for the development of the 10 -Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, with FY 2020 funding available from the Community Enrichment Fund and General Fund. Mayor McComb referred to Item 20. This Ordinance was postponed until September 8, 2020. 21. Ordinance awarding two construction contracts to Haas -Anderson Construction, Ltd., Corpus Christi, Texas for the mill and overlay of Ocean Drive from Louisiana Avenue to Robert Drive in the amount of $6,081,782.85 and Ocean Drive from Robert Drive to Ennis Joslin Road in the amount of $4,399,728.35 and amending the FY 2020 Operating and Capital Budget to include Ocean Drive from Louisiana Avenue to Robert Drive and Ocean Drive from Robert Drive to Ennis Joslin Road projects; appropriating $4,554,601.20 from the unreserved fund balance of the General Fund, located in Council District 4, with funding available from the 2012 and 2014 Street Bond Program, and the FY 2021 Type B, FY 2020 General, Storm Water, Wastewater, and Water Funds. Mayor McComb referred to Item 21. Director of Public Works Department Richard Martinez presented information on the following topics: this ordinance would award two construction contracts to Haas -Anderson Construction, Ltd. for the mill and overlay of Ocean Drive. City of Corpus Christi Page 10 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 Council Members and Director Martinez discussed the following topics: Council Members' support of Ocean Drive being reconstructed; construction should begin in October and be completed within ten months; this construction will cover a 14 mile stretch of roadway down Ocean Drive; and this construction will include pavement repair and markings for bike lanes. Council Member Guajardo made a motion to approve the ordinance, seconded by Council Member Hernandez. This Ordinance was passed on first reading and approved with the following vote: Aye: 9 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Abstained: 0 22. Ordinance authorizing the purchase of artificial turf materials from The PlayWell Group, Inc. of Boerne, TX, for a total amount not to exceed $72,212.43 and a three-month service agreement for installation with PlayWorks Inc. of Boerne, TX, for a total amount not to exceed $93,316.82 for materials and installation of artificial turf for splash pads at three City parks, for a total amount not to exceed $165,529.25; appropriating funds from the unreserved fund balance of the Community Enrichment Fund; and amending the budget. Mayor McComb referred to Item 22. Interim Director of Parks and Recreation Tracey Cantu presented information on the following topics: this item authorizes the purchase of artificial turf materials and a three-month service agreement for the installation of the artificial turf for splash pads and at three City parks through the BuyBoard Cooperative. Council Members and Interim Director Cantu discussed the following topics: staff recommends approval of artificial turf for the splash pads located at Lindale Park, Salinas Park and Bill Witt Park; and the artificial turf will be great for long-term maintenance of the splash pads. Council Member Molina made a motion to approve the ordinance, seconded by Council Member Guajardo. This Ordinance was passed on first reading and approved with the following vote: Aye: 9 - Mayor McComb, Council Member Barrera, Council Member Garza, Council Member Guajardo, Council Member Hernandez, Council Member Hunter, Council Member Molina, Council Member Roy and Council Member Smith Abstained: 0 R. BRIEFINGS: (NONE) S. EXECUTIVE SESSION: (ITEM 23) City of Corpus Christi Page 11 Printed on 8/31/2020 City Council Meeting Minutes August 25, 2020 23. Executive Session pursuant to Texas Government Code § 551.071 and Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct Rule 1.05 to consult with attorneys concerning legal issues related to matters involving desalination, regulatory matters involving the Texas Coalition on Environmental Quality and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, requirements of the Texas Public Information Act, and statutes and case law granting intellectual property rights related to the aforementioned items. This E -Session Item was withdrawn. T. IDENTIFY COUNCIL FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS Mayor McComb referred to Identify Future Agenda Items. U. ADJOURNMENT The following Items were discussed: the last budget workshop will be held on Thursday; a Council Member's request for the City Manager to provide more potential projects of milling other roads; and a Council Member's request for the report evaluation related to concrete versus asphalt streets. This meeting was adjourned at 4:14 p.m. City of Corpus Christi Page 12 Printed on 8/31/2020 Norma Duran From: Melissa Zamora <mzamora1818@yahoo.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 8:39 AM To: CitySecretary Subject: Request for call back - Melissa Zamora Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING Imm/dd/rr1: 08/25/20 NAME: Melissa Zamora ADDRESS: 3917 Browner CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: Desalination Finance Agreement STATE: Tx zip: 78411 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): 19 TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: 361-425-2318 1 REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: Julie Rogers ADDRESS: 710 Furman Ave CITY: Corpus Christi STATE: TX TOPIC: No loan for proposed desal project ZIP: 78404 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): 19 TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: 361-461-1967 Norma Duran From: julie rogers <rogersjuliet@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 11:09 AM To: CitySecretary Subject: Public Comment for Item 19 City Council Agenda Attachments: Public Comment V2 082520.docx Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] Please submit my public comments to the City Councilpersons. Thank you for your service. Julie Rogers 710 Furman Ave CCTX 78404 1 Your "mission is to make Corpus Christi one of the most livable communities in America. To create a vibrant, progressive, clean city that rejoices in its diversity. To keep our citizens safe and secure, and provide an abundance of economic development opportunities while paying special attention to our unique environment." Everything about Item 19 and your proposed desalination project for Corpus Christi Bay goes against that mission. Please vote NO on Item 19 and hold a series of townhalls where the debate can be flushed out; where all questions are addressed; and the harms, risks, and costs of such a proposed project are fully exposed. In closing, I would like to thank you for the recent townhall meetings held for the upcoming budget, but I'd also like to point out that if you can do that for the budget, you can do it for the proposed desal project. REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: Brittany Garcia ADDRESS: 3214 Brawner Pkwy CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: Desalination loan STATE: TX ZIP: 78411 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: (361) 660-9401 REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: Sylvia Campos ADDRESS: 4410 Fir CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: Desalination Permit STATE: Tx ZIP: AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: 361-687-7259 What is the hurry on the permit for a Desalination Plant? Why does the city want to proceed if the City has not determined, we the taxpayers want to fund this. There are multiple plans for these plants from industry, if the Heavy Industry wants this, why are they not building it themselves? Polymers is available, formally M& G. When something smells fishy it usually is. ask that you vote this down and have town hall meetings on this, or why not have had town hall meetings prior to this? Too many questions and no satisfactory answers. Your approach has been behind closed doors. Never a good thing. Government demands we have an open participation. We have multi -billion in street repairs and infrastructure was one estimate. We should prioritize that. REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/2020 NAME: Moses Mostaghasi (MPM Homes) ADDRESS: 8017 Barley Dock CITY: STATE: ZIP: 78414 TOPIC: annexation and zoning case AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): Items #13 and Items #14 TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: 361-774-3832 REQUEST FOR CALL BACK FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/2020 NAME: Bobak Mostashasi City Council ADDRESS: 8017 Barley Dock CITY: STATE: ZIP: 78414 TOPIC: annexation and zoning case AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): Items #13 and Items #14 TELEPHONE NUMBER FOR CALL BACK: 361-549-7818 Norma Duran From: Bob Paulison <bobpaulison@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 9:17 AM To: CitySecretary Subject: Public Comment / Input - 25 Aug 2020 City Council Mtg - Agenda Item 19 Attachments: Public Comment Form_25 Aug 2020_Item 19_PICC Ltr to City Council.pdf; Port Industries of Corpus Christi Letter to City Council_Desalination_Aug 2020.pdf Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Completed [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] Please accept the attached letter from Port Industries of Corpus Christi as input related to item 19 on today's City Council meeting agenda. Thank you! BP Bob Paulison Executive Director Port Industries of Corpus Christi bobpaulison@gmail.com 361.563.2888 (mobile) 1 PUBLIC COMMENT/INPUT FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: Bob Paulison ADDRESS: 15821 Almeria Ave. CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: SWIFT Loan STATE: TX ZIP: 78418 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): Item 19 If no agenda item is specified, then this will be considered a general public comment and not a public hearing. File attached to email along with this form contains input from Port Industries of Corpus Christi relating to Item 19 on today's City Council meeting agenda. Thank you. PORT INDUSTRIES witror OF CORPUS CHRISTI MOM 21 August 2020 Mayor McComb & City Council Members City of Corpus Christi 1201 Leopard Street Corpus Chrsiti, TX 78401 Dear Mayor McComb & City Council Members: Port Industries of Corpus Christi members appreciate the City's many efforts to ensure that our region has a strong, drought resistant, and reliable supply of water, and offer congratulations on the City's recent selection for SWIFT financing from the Texas Water Development Board. As regional water provider, you know better than anyone that an ample supply of clean, fresh water is crucial to everyone in the Coastal Bend; and that the City needs a diverse portfolio of reliable, affordable, and sustainable water sources to support high quality of life and continued economic vitality. Since 2014, the City of Corpus Christi, the San Patricio Municipal Water District, Port Industries members, the Port of Corpus Christi, and the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation have been working collaboratively on that issue with the goal of achieving a drought -proof water source for the area. During that period, the City has examined, in a continuous and ongoing fashion, all alternatives from conservation and reuse to groundwater and desalination; we agree with this comprehensive and rigorous approach. We also agree with the decision to secure financing for a desalination option at this time. Other sources may bring addition& diversity to our water supply, but the work that has been done since 2014 has shown that desalination is feasible, affordable and sustainable which leads us to support the City's strategy of continuing forward with preparations for desalination facilities to meet the currently known demands for water in our area. Even in good times, drought is never very far away. We must be ready. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input into the process. Port Industries appreciates the City Council's continuing commitment to developing a strong, drought resistant, and sustainable water supply system. Rick Ritter President Working for a Balanced Partnership AEP Texas Air Liquide Buckeye Texas Partners Celanese Chemows Cheniere Energy CITGO Refining & Chemicals, LP Flint Hi/!s Resources Corpus avast, LLC Guff Coast Growth Ventures Kiewit Offshore Services, Ltd. Lyonde/IBasell MODA Midstream NuStar Energy, LP OxyChem An Oak Corpus Chnst/ Port of Corpus Christi Authority TALEN Energy Valero voesta/pine Texas 222 Power Street — 78401 P. O. Box 223 — 78403 Corpus Christi, Texas Phone: 361/563-2888 PUBLIC COMMENT/INPUT FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: City Council DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: John LaRue, President & CEO, United Corpus Christi Chamber ADDRESS: 602 N. Staples Street, Suite 150 CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: Seawater Desal STATE: TX ZIP: 78401 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): item P.19 If no agenda item is specified, then this will be considered a general public comment and not a public hearing. On behalf of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, I am pleased to offer our support of the City's plans for a seawater desalination plant in the Port of Corpus Christi's Inner Harbor Ship Channel and a future plant near the La Quinta Channel in San Patricio County. Our compliments to you and your staff for the intense diligence and planning you have done over more than seven years to move a new water supply project forward. Reliable and sustainable water supply is the key to economic and business growth in the Coastal Bend. The City's long term plan to meet the area's public water needs ensures that the City's total water supply capacity will continue to meet the water demands of residents, businesses and industry in our region. The seawater desalination approach adds a drought resistant water source to our overall supply while minimizing any financial or environmental effects. It is great to see forward -thinking leadership from the City of Corpus Christi on this issue. PUBLIC COMMENT/INPUT FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/25/20 NAME: Carrie Robertson Meyer City Council and Mayor ADDRESS: 4401 Gulfbreeze Blvd. CITY: Corpus Christi TOPIC: VOTE NO on DESAL funding STATE: TX ZIP: 78402 AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): 19 If no agenda item is specified, then this will be considered a general public comment and not a public hearing. Vote NO on Item 19 -- funding desal -- on tomorrow's agenda. Putting the first facility in the inner harbor will set us on a path to catastrophic harm to our bays and our pocketbooks. The city should hold a series of public hearings where the debate can be flushed out; where all questions are addressed; and the harms,risks, and costs are fully exposed. That's transparency. That's leadership. North Beach is a tourism destination that relies on clean bay water and a healthy ecosystem to continue to show our visitors the best of Corpus Christi. We can't let the Port's growth hurt our city's #2 industry, tourism, by polluting the water with brine, hurting our marine life by changing the salinity and bay temperatures in the inner harbor. That water flows right into the water we are all swimming in here on North Beach. We will all be watching your vote tomorrow to help us decide how to vote on the ballot this November. Sarah Brunkenhoefer From: CitySecretary Sent: Monday, August 24, 2020 3:29 PM To: Sarah Brunkenhoefer Subject: FW: Letter from Port Industries of Corpus Christi Re: SWIFT Financing & Desalination Attachments: Port Industries of Corpus Christi Letter to City Council_Desalination_Aug 2020.pdf FYI. From: Rebecca Huerta <RebeccaH@cctexas.com> Sent: Monday, August 24, 2020 2:28 PM To: CitySecretary <CitySecretary@cctexas.com> Subject: FW: Letter from Port Industries of Corpus Christi Re: SWIFT Financing & Desalination Please include as public comment for Item 19. Rebecca L. Huerta TRMC, CMC City Secretary City of Corpus Christi 1201 Leopard Street 1 Corpus Christi, TX 78401 P.O. Box 9277 1 Corpus Christi, TX 78469-9277 Phone: (361) 826-3105 1 Fax: (361) 826-3113 RebeccaH@cctexas.com If your e-mail is a Public Information Request, please send to CityOpenRecords@cctexas.com. From: Bob Paulison <bobpaulison@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, August 24, 2020 12:24 PM To: Joe McComb <Joe.McComb@cctexas.com>; Rudy Garza Jr <Rudy.Garza@cctexas.com>; Paulette Guajardo <Paulette.Guaiardo@cctexas.com>; Michael Hunter <Michael.Hunter@cctexas.com>; Everett Roy <Everett.Rov@cctexas.com>; Ben Molina <Ben.Molina@cctexas.com>; Roland Barrera [council] <Roland.Barrera@cctexas.com>; Greg Smith <Greg.Smith@cctexas.com>; Gil Hernandez [Council] <Gil.Hernandez@cctexas.com>; Peter Zanoni <peterz@cctexas.com>; Rebecca Huerta <RebeccaH@cctexas.com> Subject: Letter from Port Industries of Corpus Christi Re: SWIFT Financing & Desalination [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] Good afternoon Mayor, City Council members, City Manager, and City Secretary - Attached, please find a letter of support from Port Industries regarding City activities to develop a drought resistant water supply, work on seawater desalination, and the City's recent selection for SWIFT financing by the TWDB. In addition to being a general expression of appreciation for all that work that the City has accomplished with regards to our water supply, this letter is specifically being submitted in support of item 19 on the 2.5 August 2020 City Council meeting agenda. Thank you for all that you do for our City. If I can be of further service, please don't hesitate to contact me. Best Regards, Bob Bob Paulison Executive Director Port Industries of Corpus Christi bobpaulison@gmail.com 361.563.2888 (mobile) 2 PORT INDUSTRIES 1r1 OF CORPUS CHRISTI 21 August 2020 Mayor McComb & City Council Members City of Corpus Christi 1201 Leopard Street Corpus Chrsiti, TX 78401 Dear Mayor McComb & City Council Members: Port Industries of Corpus Christi members appreciate the City's many efforts to ensure that our region has a strong, drought resistant, and reliable supply of water, and offer congratulations on the City's recent selection for SWIFT financing from the Texas Water Development Board. As regional water provider, you know better than anyone that an ample supply of clean, fresh water is crucial to everyone in the Coastal Bend; and that the City needs a diverse portfolio of reliable, affordable, and sustainable water sources to support high quality of life and continued economic vitality. Since 2014, the City of Corpus Christi, the San Patricio Municipal Water District, Port Industries members, the Port of Corpus Christi, and the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation have been working collaboratively on that issue with the goal of achieving a drought -proof water source for the area. During that period, the City has examined, in a continuous and ongoing fashion, all alternatives from conservation and reuse to groundwater and desalination; we agree with this comprehensive and rigorous approach. We also agree with the decision to secure financing for a desalination option at this time. Other sources may bring additional diversity to our water supply, but the work that has been done since 2014 has shown that desalination is feasible, affordable and sustainable which leads us to support the City's strategy of continuing forward with preparations for desalination facilities to meet the currently known demands for water in our area. Even in good times, drought is never very far away. We must be ready. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input into the process. Port Industries appreciates the City Council's continuing commitment to developing a strong, drought resistant, and sustainable water supply system. Rick Ritter President Working for a Balanced Partnership AEP Texas Air Gquide Buckeye Texas Partners Celanese Chemours Cheniere Energy CITGO Reining & Chemicals, LP Flint Hills Resources Corpus Chnsh, LLC Gull Coast Growth Ventures Kiewit Offshore Services, Ltd. Lyonde//Basel/ MODA Midstream NuStar Energy, LP OxyChem Pin Oak Corpus Christi Port of Corpus Christ Authority TALEN Energy Valero voestalpine Texas 222 Power Street — 78401 P. O. Box 223 — 78403 Corpus Christi, Texas Phone: 361/563-2888 Sarah Brunkenhoefer From: CitySecretary Sent: Monday, August 17, 2020 3:26 PM To: Rebecca Huerta Cc: Sarah Brunkenhoefer; Norma Duran Subject: FW: Desalination Attachments: Desalination Support Letter.pdf FYI. From: Brian Williams <BGW@spmwd.net> Sent: Monday, August 17, 2020 3:04 PM To: Ben Molina <Ben.Molina@cctexas.com>; Everett Roy <Everett.Roy@cctexas.com>; Gil Hernandez [Council] <Gil.Hernandez@cctexas.com>; Greg Smith <Greg.Smith@cctexas.com>; Joe McComb <Joe.McComb@cctexas.com>; Michael Hunter <Michael.Hunter@cctexas.com>; Paulette Guajardo<Paulette.Guajardo@cctexas.com>; Roland Barrera [council] <Roland.Barrera@cctexas.com>; Rudy Garza Jr <Rudy.Garza@cctexas.com>; Rebecca Huerta <RebeccaH@cctexas.com>; CitySecretary <CitySecretary@cctexas.com> Cc: Peter Zanoni <peterz@cctexas.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL]Desalination [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] Mayor and City Council, Please see the attached letter in support of the Texas Water Development Board - SWIFT loan for the Inner Harbor desalination facility scheduled for your review on August 25. Brian G. Williams, P.E. San Patricio Municipal Water District P.O. Box 940 Ingleside, Texas 78362 Office Phone (361) 777-4037 Cell Phone (361) 815-7933 http://www.sanpatwater.com Notice: Texas has a very broad public records law. All written communications to andfrom the San Patricio Municipal Water District officials/employees using District equipment are public records and available to the public and media. Your email communications may be subject to public disclosure. 1 Billie IoTennill, President Troy Mircovich, Vice President Brian Williams, Manager/District Engineer Rebecca Klaeuemann, Secretary/Treasurer August 17, 2020 Mayor and City Council Members, SAN PATR/C/® UNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT A. Larry Kalich, Director Danny C. Cox, Director P.O. B $941x' Ed Rainwater, Director Ingleside, texas 18362 Alan Miller, Director Boil Kellar, Director Tom Bridges, Director Congratulations on the Inner Harbor Desalination facility being selected to receive State Water Implementation Fund of Texas (SWIFT) funding. The effort given by the City of Corpus Christi to develop this regional drought -proof water supply shows the keen foresight and tenacity the City has demonstrated over the years to ensure adequate water supplies for the region. We would like to encourage the City to continue the progress moving forward and to accept the SWIFT loan from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB). The TWDB through its methodical process has prioritized this beneficial project and has deemed it worthy to receive a subsidized low-interest loan that will benefit the entire region. We appreciate the leadership in water demonstrated by the Texas Water Development Board. Also, our thanks to Texas Legislature, and in particular our San Patricio County members, Senator Zaffirini and Representative J. M. Lozano, for making such programs available. Again, the City should be congratulated for the efforts it has taken over the past seven years to methodically and purposefully move forward achieving the goal of a drought -proof water source. The dedication demonstrated by the Council and City staff to advance the desalination proposal has been remarkable. It has been a pleasure to work with the City and we will continue to support the City in its effort to develop a drought -proof public water source for the region. Sincerely, Brian G. Williarrfs, P.E. San Patricio MWD, General Manager Xc: San Patricio MWD Board of Directors Phone 361-643-6521 Fax 361-643-9093 Page 1 of1\i\ifj6IrJ{I ifff(1l7)t1J.I3xfticifty4'tfiki?friUrrifiliiIfir1Sd+Giteilt ffae:III•riitflr)i2fgdiVJ0pgdttr8210 i1Elq%t%Jc PUBLIC COMMENT/INPUT FORM City of Corpus Christi Enter either "City Council" or the name of the City Board: CITY COUNCIL DATE OF MEETING (mm/dd/yy): 08/19/20 NAME: SHELLEY TINSLEY ADDRESS: 613 HOFFMAN ST CITY: CORPUS CHRISTISTATE: TX ZIP: 78404 TOPIC: SOCIAL DISTANCING AND PUBLIC TESTIMONY AGENDA ITEM NUMBER (if applicable): If no agenda item is specified, then this will be considered a general public comment and not a public hearing. First and foremost I want to thank the City Council for NOT attempting to de -fund our Police Dept of Corpus Christi Texas. We need to make sure our neighborhoods and Schools and place of employment are being secured. Being an employee of one of the biggest food chains in Texas I can say I appreciate the presence of our Law enforcement Officers. As for kids getting back to school, I most certainly hope this will happen soon, as I have a brother & sister inlaw both that are First Responders and have 4 children still at home and still in college, Highschool and elementary. So they have to have 4 laptops or PC's They are also FullTime employees of the City / Hospital. I can tell you that I know it has been very stressful on them, and on top of that putting their lives in danger every day. Maybe instead of worrying whether or not people are complying with "mask wearing" we should focus on getting our city back to work. 100% People need to get back to work and kids in school. Sarah Brunkenhoefer From: CitySecretary Sent: Wednesday, August 19, 2020 10:38 AM To: Rebecca Huerta Cc: Sarah Brunkenhoefer; Norma Duran Subject: FW: public comment FYI. From: Alissa Mejia <alissain@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 19, 2020 9:53 AM To: CitySecretary <CitySecretary@cctexas.com> Subject: Re: public comment [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] Hi, I was wondering if my comment from last week was received. I haven't submitted a written comment before and don't know if a lack of reply is typical or if it might have been overlooked. thanks. On Tue, Aug 11, 2020 at 11:14 AM Alissa Mejia <alissain@gmail.com> wrote: From Alissa Mejia, 41 Camden PI. I want to thank the Corpus Christi public libraries for their phenomenal job during the pandemic. As my family's other activities stopped, our use of the library has increased. It's been one of the biggest bright spots of our spring and summer in isolation. Every library staff member I've dealt with has been unfailingly positive and friendly. Many have offered unsolicited extra advice or suggestions to further improve the experience. Each week we borrow books, a puzzle, and the library also gives us a take-home craft. That package from the library is one of the highlights of the week for my 3 -year-old twins. They have started reading their first words this summer, and some of that credit goes to the easy reading books we borrow from the library. This is also their main source of education as we are keeping them home from preschool for now. I've appreciated the adult books and the movies as well, especially as I spend more time exercising on my spin bike rather than in public. All of this is helping us stay home and entertained. Thanks for continuing to make these resources available despite the challenges. Sarah Brunkenhoefer From: CitySecretary Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 8:48 AM To: Sarah Brunkenhoefer Subject: FW: [EXTERNAL]diversity and inclusiveness Attachments: #gadfly - editorial 11-10-96.pdf; #editorial 11-16-96 Coastal Bend Sun.pdf; news Nov 1996.pdf Public Comment From: Nancy Hunt <njhunt@pdq.net> Sent: Tuesday, August 25, 2020 6:53 AM To: CitySecretary <CitySecretary@cctexas.com> Subject: [EXTERNAL]diversity and inclusiveness [ [ WARNING: External e-mail. Avoid clicking on links or attachments. We will NEVER ask for a password, username, payment or to take action from an email. When in doubt, please forward to SecurityAlert@cctexas.com. ] ] To: City Secretary Re: Buccaneer Days Coronation Pageant Did you receive a July 23, 2020 email from me addressing the issue of diversity/inclusiveness re the Coronation Pageant that is affiliated with Buc Days? In July 2019 when I presented this question to the editor of CCCT she suggested submitting it directly to the org (las Donas). She recently expressed an interest in their answer when I told her I followed her advice. If I do not receive an acknowledgement/ reply from you or members of the City Council re this email or the July 23 I suppose it will be necessary to submit a letter via USPS. BTW, it is not uncommon to experience delays and/or difficulty with my emaiis bec the unusual email address is often times flagged as spam/junk mail. Considering the critical issues facing the City re covid-19 and the needs of its residents I can certainly understand a delay in responding. The City and County has done a stellar job at executing its responsibilities that incudes advising and guiding the public during the pandemic. My Dad who loved this City would have been proud of the City today, both public and private even though his role as gadfly and watchdog would probably not be well received by all. He was one of those "old guys" from generations past who sought to disclose greed, corruption and unfair treatment of others. The attachments are intended for those not familiar with his role in the community. Regards, Nancy J. Hunt 6162 Misty Meadow #305 Corpus Christi, TX 78414 361-446-9780 361-500-5168 njhuntapdq.net 2 EDITORIALS Ale/Sunday, November 10,1996 Caput €btitt €at1t4initci STEPHEN W. SULLIVAN President & Publisher LARRY L. ROSE Executive Vice President General Manager NICK j 1MENEZ Editorial Page Editor Vice BROOKS PETERSON SYLVIA REYES Senior Editorial Writer Editorial Writer DAVID A. husis President & Executive Editor MURPHY GIVEN$ Viewpoints Editor Tom Hunt Often controversial, he was a man of his word. The death Friday of Tom Hunt took from the scene a man who was endlessly energetic. and sometimes combative. in seeking to make a differ- ence in his community. Hunt, a former president of the Tax - pavers Association, was often at odds with the Caller -Times — but not always. It bears remembering that when he ran for county treasurer in 1986 on a pledge to do away with that antiquated and unneeded office, the Editorial Board endorsed him. In 1987, the office was duly abolished — and Hunt. a man of his word. became one of those rare politicos actually to put himself out of work. He also served on the City Council, where he functioned as a kind of in- house gadfly; and in 1994, as a Repub- lican, he came within a whisker of defeating Democrat Richard Borchard for the office of Nueces County judge. Hunt, a retired Air Force officer and former insurance agency owner, was sincere in his convictions, and, as in his brief stint as county treasurer, he was a man of his word. His was a long and impressive record of service to country and community. The Coastal Bend Sun Saturday, Nov. 16, 1996 Honest and dedicated, Tom Hunt was often community's conscience Tom J. E. Hunt died Thursday, November 7, 1996, at the age of 76. He was well known and respected in Corpus Christi as an honest, strong, person decidated to the cause of good government and became one of the community's outspoken "watchdogs." If he felt there was a wrong doing he would make every effort to undo the wrong, even if the cause he embarked on appeared to be impossible. That tenacity came to the forefront when he decided that Nueces County did not need a County Treasurer. He managed to be elected to the post in 1986, then went about seeing that the job was abolished. In 1989 he was elected to the City Council. Tom J. E. Hunt died Thursday, November people who helped him during the war. With 7, 1996, at the age of 76. He was well known Edwina as the interpreter, they traveled from— and respected in Corpus Christi as an hon- villageto village looking for familiar sites. He est, strong, person decidated to the cause of knocked on doors in search of his rescuers, good government and became one of the and finally rounded up the people who community's outspoken 'watchdogs." played a key role in saving his life. During his If he felt there was a wrong doing he would 31/2 year tour of duty in France, Tom and his make every effort to undo the wrong, even if family spent most of their holidays with their the cause he embarked on appeared 10 be special friends in Doudeville, France. impossible. That tenacity came to the fore- Tom was very disturbed when he discov- front when he decided that Nueces County ered that one of his rescuers was still under did not need a County Treasurer. He man- suspicion by many of the other villagers. aged to be elected to the post in 1986, then This French underground worker purposely went about seeing that the job was abol- wanted the German Nazis to think he was ished. In 1989 he was elected to the City friendly to the Germans and perhaps even a Council. traitor. This allowed him to maintain a strong Tom J. E. Hunt was born in Kansas City, front during the process of hiding American, Missouri in 1920. Shortly thereafter his par- British and Canadian flyers. Tom was out- ents moved to Birmingham, Alabama where raged, as he knew that this particular he spent most of his childhood and young Frenchman was in fact a high level French adult life. It was there that he met his wife underground supporter. He was determirted Edwina. They were married nearly 54 years. to "make it right." In 1939 Tom enlisted in the military and in He arranged for military officers to come to World War II served as a bombardier on a 8- this tiny village (Doudeville) and make 17. On June 26, 1943 his plane was shot known , to .everyone that the Frenchman down by enemy fire in northern France. The saved many lives at the expense and safety French Underground hid Tom and another of his own family. American bands from all crew member in their homes, barns and over Europe came to the tiny village to salute wine cellars, as they made their way across Tom's friend end everyone in the village central France, southern France and with attended the ceremonin the cinema build - the help of the Basque sheep herders, ing in the center of town. • across the Pyrenees Mountains where they After his harrowing escape, Tom became were met by a British plane and flown safely a pilot and retired as a Lt. Colonel In the 'back to England. These war experiences USAF. Following his retirement he operated played a significant role throughout his adult an insurance agency in Corpus Christi from fife, and undoubtedly had a part in molding 1962 to 1985. In addition to his public serv- his strong, dedicated personality. He did not ice, he was a past president of the Corpus forget the dedication and sacrifice of the Christi Taxpayers Association, past presi- French people. dent o1 the Six Points Lions Club, a member After the war, Tom and his family were of the Corpus Christi Navy League, Military transferred to Chateauroux, France. At his Order of the World Wars, OPUS and the Re - first opportunity he traveled throughout the tired Officers Association. He also served as northern' part of France in search of the a volunteer driver for cancer patients. Tom Hunt Sr. recalled as principled Late tax reformer 'gave his all for the community' • His focus was on cutting spend- ing and reducing the tax burden. •A colleague said Hunt could be counted on to stand by his word. • 'He was a worthy opponent, always dedicated to his opinions,' said former Mayor Luther Jones. Ry ROSEMARY BARNES Caller -Times Friends and former political opponents expressed shock over Tom Hunt's death, describing the familiar figure as a principled man who always stood firm by his beliefs. A family member said that it was not widely known in the community that Hunt had been ill for several weeks. "It's a shame.This is a great loss for the community," said Hunt's friend J.E. O'Brien. O'Brien, spokesman for the Corpus Christi Taxpayers Associ- ation, reminisced about what he considers to be Hunt's finest moment — successfully crusading for the city's 68 -cent property tax cap in 1979. Hunt later became president of the association. "I met Tom in 1979, when he joined the association, " O'Brien said. "Since that time, he gave his all to this community. He gave everything he had to help the res- idents of this city." Before the tax movement, Hunt had run unsuccessfully for a seat on the City Council in 1967 on the Popular Party ticket. The next time Hunt became Tom Hunt Sr. ran for City Council in 1967, but area property tax issues brought him into politics in the late 1970s. involved in city politics was in 1979, when the tax appraisal on his three-bedroom townhouse on the Southside skyrocketed 149 percent. It was at that moment that the tax activist in Hunt emerged. He joined the taxpayers associ- ation and initiated a tax reform measure to cap the city tax rate at 68 cents and limit annual proper- ty valuation increases to 6 per- cent. er- cent. After voters approved the mea- sure, the city sued every city tax- payer, challenging the constitu- tionality of Proposition 14. as it Please see HUNT/B4 ‘A,as listed on the ballot. The taxpayers group responded with a recall drive against the council. Ultimately. the council and tax- p.rycrs association reached a compromise that retained the tax cap hut dropped the h -percent ceiling on property -valuation increases. Luther Jones, who was mayor at the time. said the Proposition 14 controversy was tearing the com- munity apart. A compromise was the only way to mitigate the dam- age. Jones said. Jones recalled that Hunt was instrumental in the compromise agreement that the taxpayers and city officials signed Int, one Sun- day evening after a weekend of negotiations. "He was a worthy opponent. always dedicated to his opin- ions." Jones said. "We disagreed on many issues.but we always got along. 1 remember the night we signed the compromise agree- ment, Tom had to borrow my glasses because he had left his at home." After leading the tax revolt, Hunt lost bids for mayor on the Taxpayers Party ticket in 1981 and for an at -large council seat in 1983. Hunt won a seat on the council in 1989, when he defeated two - term District 4 incumbent Linda Strong. Hunt lost a re-election bid in 1991 to Dr. David McNi- chols. A common theme ran through all of his campaigns — cut spend- ing at City Hall and reduce the tax burden on residents. "He worked tirelessly for everything he believed in," O'Brien said. "He kept his word as a politi- cian, unlike most politicians of today." As an example. O'Brien said, Hunt in 1986 ran as a Republican candidate for Nueces County treasurer on a platform that he would abolish the office. Hunt maintained that the office should he abolished because its function could he assumed by the county auditor at a $140,000 sav- ings a year. Hunt won. and two years later the office was closed. "I didn't always agree with Tom. but when he abolished the county treasurer's office, he did the right thing," said City Coun- cilman Jack Best."Even though we disagreed a lot. I always respected him for sticking by what he believed in." Hunt's last bid for elected office was two years ago. when he was the Republican nandidate for Nueces County judge. His opponent was Democrat Richard Borchard, a former county commissioner, 1i, ho won in a tight race. Hunt pushed for more consoli- dation of city and county services and more control of county spending. Borchard said Thursday that Hunt campaigned exactly .as everyone had expected. by blunt- ly asserting his stance on issues. "Tom Hunt is an individual who has always been outspoken." Borchard said. "In the campaign. he was very straightforward about his beliefs. For the most part. I disagreed with him. But I always respected him."