Recognitions and Communications
The Mayor will be presenting the following: 1. Recognizing Alexander High School Junior Captain Juan Montoya who earned All-State honors, honorable mention at guard by the Texas Sports Writers Association for 6A. Montoya helped the Bulldogs average 4.7 yards per carry and 301.9 total offensive yards per game as they went 6-6 and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. 2. Recognizing United High School Sadey Rodriguez for breaking her own city record in the discus with a throw of 143'8 at the LISD Invitational Relays. 3. Recognizing Tommy Treviño, a senior at Alexander High School for winning 1st place in the B Class Division of ATV's Lone Star Quad Racing (LSQR) series. 1. Recognizing Las Promesas de Laredo, a Community Youth Development Program, a division of Southwest Key Programs for their work with families and school aged children living in south Laredo who have completed the programs including a series of leadership lessons. On Friday, February 16th, the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) will start the day with a cleanup of Slaughter Park followed by a community picnic to celebrate their accomplishments. The YAC is also planning to continue their efforts with several projects including collecting jeans for the homeless, collecting items for the troops, putting positive signs to take back their streets, and a doggy wash to collect items for a local animal shelter. 2. Recognizing Mr. Lazaro Medina for his many years of service as a Shriner helping many children receive needed medical attention by assisting with their transport to the Houston Shriners' Hospital for Children and Ruth B. Cowl Clinic in Laredo.
Citizen comments Citizens are required to fill out a witness card and submit it to the City Secretary no later than 5:45 p.m. and identify themselves at the microphone. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker. No more than three (3) persons will be allowed to speak on any side of an issue. Should there be more than three (3) people who wish to speak on a particular issue, they need to select not more than three (3) representatives to speak for them and the presiding officer may limit the public comments further in the interest of an orderly meeting. Speakers may not pass their minutes to any other speaker. Comments should be relevant to City business and delivered in a professional manner. No derogatory remarks will be permitted.
Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez (Supplemental Agenda) Discussion with possible action on presentation by the City Manager on Item V of the Ethics Commission Agenda of February 14, 2018, as it pertained to the proposed amendment to the Ethics Code involving the exception to Section 2.09; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Vidal Rodriguez, Council Member Alberto Torres Jr., and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Discussion with possible action on an invitation by AIA Laredo to the Laredo City Council and the City of Laredo staff to participate in an Urban Design and Economic Development Workshop and Lecture by Urban Planner, Joe Minicozzi of Urban 3 (specializing in land value economics, property and retail tax analysis and community design); and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Request by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. Discussion with possible action to assist the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) as an official sponsor of the 2018 CLEAT Convention being held in Laredo, Texas, September 20-22, 2018; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alex Perez and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez Discussion with possible action to instruct and authorize staff to install speed humps at 1600 Milmo Ave., under the Special Provision of the Speed Hump Installation Policy, and to authorize the use of asphalt type speed humps, instead of a speed cushion, which is currently required under the policy; and any other matters incident thereto. City Council District III Priority Funds will be used for this project.
APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES 1. Appointment by Mayor Pete Saenz of Maria Teresa Fonseca to the Building Standards Board. 4. Appointment by Council Member Rudy Gonzalez of Sergio Chavez, Jr. to the Parks & Leisure Services Advisory Committee. 5. Appointment by Council Member Rudy Gonzalez of Elizabeth Lopez to the Laredo Commission for Women.
COMMUNICATIONS a. Presentation by Raul Moreno, General Services Administration (GSA) on the construction update on the Juarez - Lincoln International Bridge Project, the improvements to Bridge I and the upcoming closure of North bound vehicular traffic.
PUBLIC HEARINGS Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $50,625.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Health Educator II, R32 for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Healthy Texas Babies Program for the term from execution date through August 31, 2018.
Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Special Use Permit for a Restaurant Serving Alcohol, on Lot 1, Block 1, Northridge Commercial Plat, located at 8511 McPherson Rd. Suites 109, 110 & 111; providing for publication and effective date. Staff supports the application and Planning & Zoning Commission recomends approval of the Special Use Permit. ZC-24-2018 District VI
FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 5. 2018-O-033 Authorizing the City Manager to ratify and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $250,000.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Chief of Health Education, R39 for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Obesity Prevention Program for the term of February 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019. (AS AMENDED) 6. 2018-O-034 Authorizing the City Manager to ratify and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $224,584.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Health Educator I, R29 position and one (1) Caseworker, R34 position and six (6) contract employees for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Zika Health Care Women's Health Prevention Services in our target area for the term of January 18, 2018 through June 30, 2018. 7. 2018-O-035 Amending the City of Laredo 2017-2018 Special Police Fund budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $182,174.40 to fund the Rifle-Resistant Body Armor Grant Project and to accept said grant award in the amount of $182,174.40 from the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division. The funds will be used to equip 480 officers at risk of shootings with bullet-resistant personal body armor compliant with the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard for rifle protection. The Rifle-Resistant Body Armor Grant performance period is from January 01, 2018 through December 31, 2018 and may not exceed 12 months. No local match is required. Funding available in Special Police Fund. 8. 2018-O-036 Amending the City of Laredo's FY 2018 annual budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $124,952.07 in the General Fund. The revenues are from forfeiture cases involving abandoned and unclaimed money from the Laredo Police Department Property and Evidence Section. These funds will be used for PD buildings that are in dire need of repairs and improvements. Funding is available in General Fund and will be utilized as approved by City Manager. 9. 2018-O-037 Authorizing the City Manager to allow the City of Laredo Utilities Department to sell sanitary sewer capacity in the amount of $617.00 per gallon per minute (GPM) to the development community that are required to participate in the construction of the Eastern Chacon Creek 36” Interceptor Project due to the lack of capacity of the existing sanitary sewer system; allowing the development community to do the improvements in lieu of payment of the sanitary sewer capacity; amending the wastewater annual budget 2017-2018 by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $100,000.00; and providing for an effective date. This interceptor will provide extra capacity to the Eastern Chacon Creek Watershed Service area and will start from the Vaquillas lift station to the siphon at the intersection of Gates and India. The sale of the sanitary sewer capacity will be enforced to the development community during the recordation of the platting process that includes the interest from the bond. Properties requesting an increase of sanitary sewer capacity beyond those designated in the original plat will be subjected to the additional payment of the extra sanitary sewer capacity. The estimated cost of the improvements including the interest will be $7,088,153.00. Utilities Department recommends increasing the cost per GPM by 2% on October 1st of every year. Fees collected will be set aside in the sanitary sewer capacity projects account. 10. 2018-O-038 An Ordinance of the City of Laredo, Texas, amending Chapter 14, Article II., Section 14-9, of the code or ordinances by amending section 14-9 (m) to eliminate the brush pick up fee in its entirety for city residents paying garbage fees and waiving the bulky item and debris fees for residents who claim illegal dumping has affected their property/residence and who provide a signed affidavit attesting to the fact and specifying bulky items may be collected at no charge during schedule semi-annual and special collection events; providing that this ordinance shall be cumulative; providing a severability clause; and declaring an effective date. 11. 2018-O-039 An Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article II, Section 2-16, “Departments of the City,” of the Code of Ordinances by creating the Economic Development Department; providing that this ordinance shall be cumulative; providing a severability clause; providing for publication; and declaring an effective date.
2018-O-031 Amending Chapter 28, Article IX Public Right of Way Management; Amending Section 28-165, Definitions; Amending Section 28-174, Permit Required; Clarifying Section 28-215, Fees; Providing for a Repealing Clause; providing for publication, severability, and effective date.
2018-O-032 Amending the Subdivision Ordinance Handbook of the City of Laredo by revising Chapter III, Subdivision Design Standards, Section 3-2 Streets and Alleys (R) Pavement Standards, Pavement Specifications for Public and Private Streets; providing for publication, severability and effective date. (AS AMENDED)
All of the following items may be acted upon by one motion. No separate discussion or action on any of the items is necessary unless desired by a Council Member. X (a) RESOLUTIONS 12. 2018-R-24 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a non-financial agreement between the City of Laredo - Public Libraries and the Webb County Head Start Program to coordinate services provided to Head Start families. 13. 2018-R-26 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $85,790.75 to the Office of the Governor’s Homeland Security Grants Division (HSGD) for the purpose of funding the 2018 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)-Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA) Grant. This funding will be used to replace one fully equipped bomb vehicle that is essential and necessary in the prevention of terrorism events. No local match is required. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 14. 2018-R-27 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $80,000.00 to the Office of The Governor, Criminal Justice Department (CJD), for funding the 2019 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for the period of October 01, 2018 through September 30, 2019. This funding will provide overtime for the Anti-Gang Unit which will target Criminal Street Gangs by identifying, monitoring, suppressing and documenting criminal gang activities and maintaining the TX-Gang database. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 15. 2018-R-28 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the estimated amount of $108,000.00 to the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division for the General Victim Assistance Program Grant under the 2019 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) for the period of October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2020. This grant will fund the Crime Victims Service Coordinator position, travel/training and equipment & supplies affiliated with the grant program. The City of Laredo will be responsible for a required match of 20% of total grant funds. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 16. 2018-R-29 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $225,000.00 to the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, for funding the 2019 Body-Worn Camera Program for the period of June 01, 2018 through September 30, 2018. The purpose of this program is to aid municipal police departments in establishing or enhancing body-worn camera (BWC) programs. The City of Laredo will be responsible for a required 20% match of total project cost. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 17. 2018-R-30 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Alberto & Jennifer Garcia for a proposed project located at 420 W. Montgomery St, Lot 12; Block 177; Eastern Division that consists of new construction, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a five (5) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of Economic Development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $195,581.39, estimated annual tax abatement total of $1,434.72 and estimated total fee waivers of $3,190.50. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 18. 2018-R-31 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Armando Soto for a proposed project located at 1915 Rosario St., Lot 2; Block 1085; Eastern Division that consists of new construction, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a five (5) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of economic development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $110,100.00, estimated annual tax abatement total of $701.33 and estimated total fee waivers of $1,681.00. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 19. 2018-R-32 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Frank Group Properties limited for a proposed project located at 916 Salinas Ave, south 61.25 feet of Lot 6 & the south 61.25 feet of Lot 7; Block 127; Western Division that consists of rehab, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a ten (10) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of economic development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $163,892.16, estimated annual tax abatement total of $1,044.00 and estimated total fee waivers of $3,028.00. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 20. 2018-R-33 Authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a license agreement with U.S. Customs and Border Protection for controlling vegetation (carrizo cane removal) along the banks of the Rio Grande at Santa Rita park; said license agreement will allow the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s contractor to control vegetation (including, but not limited to, visually inspecting, marking, mowing, cutting, clipping, trimming, topping, pruning and/or shredding vegetation; removing cut vegetation and/or other debris; and/or implementing erosion control measures); there is no financial impact to the City of Laredo. 21. 2018-R-34 Resolution correcting the recorded volume and pages for a drainage easement dedication to the City of Laredo through Resolution 2017-R-92 to properly reflect volume 1774 pages 289-293, Webb County Official Public Records and authorizing the City Manager to execute the revised donation agreement documents that set forth the terms of the drainage dedication. 22. 2018-R-36 Designating and creating Phase II of the Economic Development Incentive Program within the Arts and Entertainment District along Iturbide “IT” Street from Flores Avenue to Juarez Avenue, for bars and restaurants only, to include reimbursement of the City's portion of the sales tax (1%) with a cap equal to the start-up investment over a 5-year term and the waiving of permit fees for rehabilitation of existing buildings as allowed by Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code. X (b) MOTIONS 24. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for Economic Development services with the Greater Laredo Development Foundation doing business as the Laredo Economic Development Corporation in the amount of $560,000.00 for fiscal year 2017-2018. Funding is available in General and Bridge Funds. 25. Consideration for approval of the Roof Replacement for the City of Laredo Health Department located at 2600 Cedar Avenue Project as complete; release of retainage; and approval of final payment in the amount of $35,241.32 to ALC Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final construction contract amount is $704,826.38. Funding is available in the 2015 and 2016 CO Issues. 26. Consideration for approval of the CDBG Sidewalk Project District VIII (20 City-Blocks) as complete; release of retainage; and approval of final payment in the amount of $15,500.00 to ALC Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final construction contract amount is $150,500.00. Funding is available in the 42nd Action Year CDBG Grant. 27. Consideration for approval to award a professional services contract to Sherfey Engineering Company, L.L.C., Laredo, Texas, for an amount of $65,780.00 for design and preparation of plans and specifications for the El Eden Park Improvements to include a splash park, sidewalks, shade structures, picnic tables, benches, landscaping, lighting, and other amenities deemed necessary and located at 4735 Loma Vista Drive. Design work is to be done on a fast track basis. Funding is available in the 43rd Action Year CDBG Grant. 28. Authorizing the City Manager to grant a public fireworks display permit for the City of Laredo at Uni-trade Stadium located at 6320 Sinatra Pkwy. It will take place on March 24, 2018. The technicians for the display will be Pyrotecnico. 29. Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute contract payments with Spectrum for providing the existing 9-1-1 telephone network and maintenance for the South Texas Region, including Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb and Zapata Counties, in the amount of $106,000.00. Payments are for the period of September 1, 2017 through August 31, 2018. Funding is available in the 9-1-1 Regional Fund. 30. Authorizing the City Manager to ratify payment in the amount of $51,964.58 to the Firm of Greenberg Traurig, L.L.P. for past legal services related to the oral argument and post submission brief in Texas Supreme Court Case No. 16-0748 styled City of Laredo v. Laredo Merchants Association. The City has paid $415,668.70 to date in defense of its Checkout Bag Reduction Ordinance at issue in this case. Funding is available in the General Fund. 31. Consideration to award annual supply contract FY18-029 for the purchase of general electrical supplies to all City departments in an estimated amount up to $300,000.00 to the following vendors: 1) 3-G Electrical Supply, Laredo, Texas (Primary Vendor) 2) Core Supplies & Materials, Laredo, Texas (Secondary Vendor) This contract establishes discount percentage pricing for those electrical supplies most commonly utilized by City departments. The term of this contract shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning as of the date of its execution. This contract may be extended for two additional one year periods upon mutual agreement. All items will be purchased on an as needed basis and funding will be secured from the respective user departmental budgets. 32. Consideration to award contract FY18-028 for the purchase of heavy duty equipment for various city departments to the following vendors: Nueces Power Equipment, Laredo, Texas in the amount of $707,929.37 for the purchase of six (6) backhoes, one (1) case tractor, one (1) mini-excavator, and one (1) pad foot roller; 1. AG Pro-Company of Texas, Weslaco, Texas in the amount of $179,158.38 for the purchase of three (3) utility vehicles, four (4) riding mowers and two (2) tractors with tillers; 2. Ron Grant Equipment, Laredo, Texas in the amount of $49,950.00 for the purchase of five (5) backhoe trailers. 3. Funding is available from the 2015 Contractual Obligation Bond, Sports & Community Venue-Unitrade, 2017 Solid Waste PPFCO, and 2017 Sewer Revenue Bond. 33. Consideration to ratify contract FY18-027 for the purchase of veterinary medication to the following bidders: 1. Miller Veterinary, Fort Worth, Texas (Primary Vendor) in an amount up to $60,000.00 2. MWI Animal Health, Boise Idaho (Secondary Vendor) in an amount up to $60,000.00. The term of this contract shall be for a period of two (2) years, subject to future appropriations, beginning as of the date of its execution; contract may be extended for one, additional one (1) year period upon mutual agreement. All medications will be secured on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Laredo Animal Care Department Fund. 34. Consideration to award annual contracts FY18-030 for the purchase of truck tires to the following bidders: 1. Items 1, 3, 4, & 5: Southern Tire Southwest, Columbia, Missouri in an amount up to $400,000.00; and 2. Item 2: GCR Tire Centers, Nashville, Tennessee in an amount up to $75,000.00. All tires will be secured on an as needed basis. The term of this contract shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning as of the date of its execution. This contract has two extension periods. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget. 35. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter into a three (3) year contract for the Collection of Delinquent Property Taxes with the firm of Flores, Flores, and Canales, P.L.L.C. 36. Refund of property tax in the amount of $747.83 payable to Kish Manwani due to an overpayment. Tax account # 558-01704-070. 37. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amounts to be adjusted for the month of January 2018, represent a decrease of $10,655.77. These adjustments are determined by the Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders. 38. Consideration to ratify the issuance of an emergency purchase order by the City Manager in the amount not to exceed $90,000.00 to United Rentals, San Antonio, Texas for the rental of two 7500 GPM skid mounted diesel pumps, associated 18" HDPE by-pass pipe, manifold, and fittings at the El Pico Water Treatment Plant Intermediate Pump Station #2. Funding is available in the Waterworks-Water Treatment Division.
Consideration to adopt the 2018 Federal Legislative Agenda for the 115th U.S. Congressional Legislative Session.
STAFF REPORTS Discussion with possible action on ongoing audits and/or irregularities identified by the Internal Auditor including the potential assignment of other and/or additional auditing duties; and any other matters incident thereto.
Status Report on the Washington D.C. trip scheduled for March 4 - 8 to include private sponsorships collected by Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC).
XIII. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD 41. Authorizing the Mass Transit Board to allow the Public Transportation Operator (El Metro) to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding among the Laredo Metropolitan Planning Organization ("MPO"), the Texas Department of Transportation ("TxDOT") and El Metro, the Laredo Public Transportation Operator as per the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) promulgated regulations 23 CFR 450.314. No financial impact. XIV. ADJOURN AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Request by Mayor Pete Saenz Discussion with possible action on the study in the Northwest quadrant traffic study from Colombia Road State Highway (255) to IH 35 along Mines Road addressing freight mobility and local non commercial traffic for the purpose of alleviating congestion and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion with possible action to prioritize the outer loop roadway initiating in South Laredo in coordination with Bridge V timeline and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion with possible action on the City's and State's Traffic Synchronization Project and any other matters incident thereto.
Request by Council Member George Altgelt Discussion and possible action to require the City of Laredo Animal Shelter to change their policies to allow for low cost adoption alternatives in order to gain control of the number of animals that are being euthanized weekly. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel)
Discussion with possible action to schedule a workshop to present the possibility to defease the debt from the 2011 and 2014 Sports Venue Tax Bonds and the possible transition to 4A-4 B or Economic Development D istrict taxation and any matters incident thereto. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel and Council Member George Altgelt)
Discussion and possible action to audit the City of Laredo's ADA compliance for all city facilities. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel)
Discussion and possible action to build a public boat ramp for canoes and kayaks at the Max Mandel golf course.
Request by Council Member Roberto Balli Discussion with possible action to design and construct cycling lanes along Zacate Creek between Chicago/Taylor and Jefferson/Lyon to connect same to the San Bernardo/Santa Maria cycling lanes. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. and Council Member Nelly Vielma)
Request by Council Member Roberto Balli (Supplemental Agenda) Discussion with possible action to create and adopt an ordinance addressing attendance of appointees, set schedule/calendar for meeting dates, and quorum policies as it pertains to the City's Boards and Commissions; and other matters incident thereto. ( Co-Sponsored by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez, Council Member Vidal Rodriguez, and Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr)
Discussion with poss i b le action to create a n O rd i n a nce and/or Resolution req uiring the C ity Secretary to publish o n the C ity's Webs ite all Candid ate and Office holder Campaign F i na nce Reports ( C F R) and Campaig n Treasu rer Appoi ntme nts by a Candidate (CTA) with i n 48 h o u rs from submission to the C ity Secretary's Office and that an O n l i ne Archive be made avai lable for all previously fi led C F R's and CTA's ; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-S ponsored by Council Member Roberto Balli)
Discussion with possible action to create a n o rd i n a nce to al low law enforcement and/or constitue nts acting in g ood faith to rescue a ny a n imal that may be left i n a ve h icle , s pecifically d u ri n g extreme weather con d itions; and any other matters incident thereto.
Request by Council Member Nelly Vielma 1. Discussion with possible action to create a Citizens' Advisory Board to assist the Financial Innovation Officer to make technological improvements, department and budget efficien cies recomme nd ations to C o u n cil and any matters incident thereto. (Co-sponsored by Council Member George Altgelt) XV. ADJOURN
Feb 20, 2018 City Council
Recognitions and Communications
The Mayor will be presenting the following: 1. Recognizing Alexander High School Junior Captain Juan Montoya who earned All-State honors, honorable mention at guard by the Texas Sports Writers Association for 6A. Montoya helped the Bulldogs average 4.7 yards per carry and 301.9 total offensive yards per game as they went 6-6 and advanced to the second round of the playoffs. 2. Recognizing United High School Sadey Rodriguez for breaking her own city record in the discus with a throw of 143'8 at the LISD Invitational Relays. 3. Recognizing Tommy Treviño, a senior at Alexander High School for winning 1st place in the B Class Division of ATV's Lone Star Quad Racing (LSQR) series. 1. Recognizing Las Promesas de Laredo, a Community Youth Development Program, a division of Southwest Key Programs for their work with families and school aged children living in south Laredo who have completed the programs including a series of leadership lessons. On Friday, February 16th, the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) will start the day with a cleanup of Slaughter Park followed by a community picnic to celebrate their accomplishments. The YAC is also planning to continue their efforts with several projects including collecting jeans for the homeless, collecting items for the troops, putting positive signs to take back their streets, and a doggy wash to collect items for a local animal shelter. 2. Recognizing Mr. Lazaro Medina for his many years of service as a Shriner helping many children receive needed medical attention by assisting with their transport to the Houston Shriners' Hospital for Children and Ruth B. Cowl Clinic in Laredo.
Citizen comments Citizens are required to fill out a witness card and submit it to the City Secretary no later than 5:45 p.m. and identify themselves at the microphone. Comments are limited to three (3) minutes per speaker. No more than three (3) persons will be allowed to speak on any side of an issue. Should there be more than three (3) people who wish to speak on a particular issue, they need to select not more than three (3) representatives to speak for them and the presiding officer may limit the public comments further in the interest of an orderly meeting. Speakers may not pass their minutes to any other speaker. Comments should be relevant to City business and delivered in a professional manner. No derogatory remarks will be permitted.
Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez (Supplemental Agenda) Discussion with possible action on presentation by the City Manager on Item V of the Ethics Commission Agenda of February 14, 2018, as it pertained to the proposed amendment to the Ethics Code involving the exception to Section 2.09; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Vidal Rodriguez, Council Member Alberto Torres Jr., and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Discussion with possible action on an invitation by AIA Laredo to the Laredo City Council and the City of Laredo staff to participate in an Urban Design and Economic Development Workshop and Lecture by Urban Planner, Joe Minicozzi of Urban 3 (specializing in land value economics, property and retail tax analysis and community design); and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Request by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. Discussion with possible action to assist the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT) as an official sponsor of the 2018 CLEAT Convention being held in Laredo, Texas, September 20-22, 2018; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alex Perez and Council Member Roberto Balli)
Request by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez Discussion with possible action to instruct and authorize staff to install speed humps at 1600 Milmo Ave., under the Special Provision of the Speed Hump Installation Policy, and to authorize the use of asphalt type speed humps, instead of a speed cushion, which is currently required under the policy; and any other matters incident thereto. City Council District III Priority Funds will be used for this project.
APPOINTMENTS TO COMMISSIONS, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES 1. Appointment by Mayor Pete Saenz of Maria Teresa Fonseca to the Building Standards Board. 4. Appointment by Council Member Rudy Gonzalez of Sergio Chavez, Jr. to the Parks & Leisure Services Advisory Committee. 5. Appointment by Council Member Rudy Gonzalez of Elizabeth Lopez to the Laredo Commission for Women.
COMMUNICATIONS a. Presentation by Raul Moreno, General Services Administration (GSA) on the construction update on the Juarez - Lincoln International Bridge Project, the improvements to Bridge I and the upcoming closure of North bound vehicular traffic.
PUBLIC HEARINGS Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to accept and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $50,625.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Health Educator II, R32 for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Healthy Texas Babies Program for the term from execution date through August 31, 2018.
Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance (Map) of the City of Laredo by authorizing a Special Use Permit for a Restaurant Serving Alcohol, on Lot 1, Block 1, Northridge Commercial Plat, located at 8511 McPherson Rd. Suites 109, 110 & 111; providing for publication and effective date. Staff supports the application and Planning & Zoning Commission recomends approval of the Special Use Permit. ZC-24-2018 District VI
FINAL READING OF ORDINANCES 5. 2018-O-033 Authorizing the City Manager to ratify and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $250,000.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Chief of Health Education, R39 for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Obesity Prevention Program for the term of February 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019. (AS AMENDED) 6. 2018-O-034 Authorizing the City Manager to ratify and execute a contract from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), amending the FY 2017-2018 budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $224,584.00 and amending the FY 2017-2018 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) Position Listing by adding one (1) Health Educator I, R29 position and one (1) Caseworker, R34 position and six (6) contract employees for the City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) Zika Health Care Women's Health Prevention Services in our target area for the term of January 18, 2018 through June 30, 2018. 7. 2018-O-035 Amending the City of Laredo 2017-2018 Special Police Fund budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $182,174.40 to fund the Rifle-Resistant Body Armor Grant Project and to accept said grant award in the amount of $182,174.40 from the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division. The funds will be used to equip 480 officers at risk of shootings with bullet-resistant personal body armor compliant with the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standard for rifle protection. The Rifle-Resistant Body Armor Grant performance period is from January 01, 2018 through December 31, 2018 and may not exceed 12 months. No local match is required. Funding available in Special Police Fund. 8. 2018-O-036 Amending the City of Laredo's FY 2018 annual budget by appropriating additional revenues and expenditures in the amount of $124,952.07 in the General Fund. The revenues are from forfeiture cases involving abandoned and unclaimed money from the Laredo Police Department Property and Evidence Section. These funds will be used for PD buildings that are in dire need of repairs and improvements. Funding is available in General Fund and will be utilized as approved by City Manager. 9. 2018-O-037 Authorizing the City Manager to allow the City of Laredo Utilities Department to sell sanitary sewer capacity in the amount of $617.00 per gallon per minute (GPM) to the development community that are required to participate in the construction of the Eastern Chacon Creek 36” Interceptor Project due to the lack of capacity of the existing sanitary sewer system; allowing the development community to do the improvements in lieu of payment of the sanitary sewer capacity; amending the wastewater annual budget 2017-2018 by appropriating revenues and expenditures in the amount of $100,000.00; and providing for an effective date. This interceptor will provide extra capacity to the Eastern Chacon Creek Watershed Service area and will start from the Vaquillas lift station to the siphon at the intersection of Gates and India. The sale of the sanitary sewer capacity will be enforced to the development community during the recordation of the platting process that includes the interest from the bond. Properties requesting an increase of sanitary sewer capacity beyond those designated in the original plat will be subjected to the additional payment of the extra sanitary sewer capacity. The estimated cost of the improvements including the interest will be $7,088,153.00. Utilities Department recommends increasing the cost per GPM by 2% on October 1st of every year. Fees collected will be set aside in the sanitary sewer capacity projects account. 10. 2018-O-038 An Ordinance of the City of Laredo, Texas, amending Chapter 14, Article II., Section 14-9, of the code or ordinances by amending section 14-9 (m) to eliminate the brush pick up fee in its entirety for city residents paying garbage fees and waiving the bulky item and debris fees for residents who claim illegal dumping has affected their property/residence and who provide a signed affidavit attesting to the fact and specifying bulky items may be collected at no charge during schedule semi-annual and special collection events; providing that this ordinance shall be cumulative; providing a severability clause; and declaring an effective date. 11. 2018-O-039 An Ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article II, Section 2-16, “Departments of the City,” of the Code of Ordinances by creating the Economic Development Department; providing that this ordinance shall be cumulative; providing a severability clause; providing for publication; and declaring an effective date.
2018-O-031 Amending Chapter 28, Article IX Public Right of Way Management; Amending Section 28-165, Definitions; Amending Section 28-174, Permit Required; Clarifying Section 28-215, Fees; Providing for a Repealing Clause; providing for publication, severability, and effective date.
2018-O-032 Amending the Subdivision Ordinance Handbook of the City of Laredo by revising Chapter III, Subdivision Design Standards, Section 3-2 Streets and Alleys (R) Pavement Standards, Pavement Specifications for Public and Private Streets; providing for publication, severability and effective date. (AS AMENDED)
All of the following items may be acted upon by one motion. No separate discussion or action on any of the items is necessary unless desired by a Council Member. X (a) RESOLUTIONS 12. 2018-R-24 Authorizing the City Manager to execute a non-financial agreement between the City of Laredo - Public Libraries and the Webb County Head Start Program to coordinate services provided to Head Start families. 13. 2018-R-26 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $85,790.75 to the Office of the Governor’s Homeland Security Grants Division (HSGD) for the purpose of funding the 2018 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP)-Law Enforcement Terrorism Prevention Activities (LETPA) Grant. This funding will be used to replace one fully equipped bomb vehicle that is essential and necessary in the prevention of terrorism events. No local match is required. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 14. 2018-R-27 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $80,000.00 to the Office of The Governor, Criminal Justice Department (CJD), for funding the 2019 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) for the period of October 01, 2018 through September 30, 2019. This funding will provide overtime for the Anti-Gang Unit which will target Criminal Street Gangs by identifying, monitoring, suppressing and documenting criminal gang activities and maintaining the TX-Gang database. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 15. 2018-R-28 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the estimated amount of $108,000.00 to the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division for the General Victim Assistance Program Grant under the 2019 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) for the period of October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2020. This grant will fund the Crime Victims Service Coordinator position, travel/training and equipment & supplies affiliated with the grant program. The City of Laredo will be responsible for a required match of 20% of total grant funds. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 16. 2018-R-29 Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $225,000.00 to the Office of the Governor, Criminal Justice Division, for funding the 2019 Body-Worn Camera Program for the period of June 01, 2018 through September 30, 2018. The purpose of this program is to aid municipal police departments in establishing or enhancing body-worn camera (BWC) programs. The City of Laredo will be responsible for a required 20% match of total project cost. Funding is available in Special Police Fund. 17. 2018-R-30 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Alberto & Jennifer Garcia for a proposed project located at 420 W. Montgomery St, Lot 12; Block 177; Eastern Division that consists of new construction, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a five (5) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of Economic Development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $195,581.39, estimated annual tax abatement total of $1,434.72 and estimated total fee waivers of $3,190.50. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 18. 2018-R-31 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Armando Soto for a proposed project located at 1915 Rosario St., Lot 2; Block 1085; Eastern Division that consists of new construction, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a five (5) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of economic development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $110,100.00, estimated annual tax abatement total of $701.33 and estimated total fee waivers of $1,681.00. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 19. 2018-R-32 Authorizing and approving a fee waiver and a tax abatement agreement between the City of Laredo and Frank Group Properties limited for a proposed project located at 916 Salinas Ave, south 61.25 feet of Lot 6 & the south 61.25 feet of Lot 7; Block 127; Western Division that consists of rehab, in accordance with authorized guidelines and criteria established for the Neighborhood Empowerment Zone (NEZ). This agreement will be for a ten (10) year period and will abate taxes on new improvements for the purpose of economic development. The project has an estimated capital investment total of $163,892.16, estimated annual tax abatement total of $1,044.00 and estimated total fee waivers of $3,028.00. Guidelines and criteria for the agreement are set forth in the attached agreement and information. 20. 2018-R-33 Authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute a license agreement with U.S. Customs and Border Protection for controlling vegetation (carrizo cane removal) along the banks of the Rio Grande at Santa Rita park; said license agreement will allow the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s contractor to control vegetation (including, but not limited to, visually inspecting, marking, mowing, cutting, clipping, trimming, topping, pruning and/or shredding vegetation; removing cut vegetation and/or other debris; and/or implementing erosion control measures); there is no financial impact to the City of Laredo. 21. 2018-R-34 Resolution correcting the recorded volume and pages for a drainage easement dedication to the City of Laredo through Resolution 2017-R-92 to properly reflect volume 1774 pages 289-293, Webb County Official Public Records and authorizing the City Manager to execute the revised donation agreement documents that set forth the terms of the drainage dedication. 22. 2018-R-36 Designating and creating Phase II of the Economic Development Incentive Program within the Arts and Entertainment District along Iturbide “IT” Street from Flores Avenue to Juarez Avenue, for bars and restaurants only, to include reimbursement of the City's portion of the sales tax (1%) with a cap equal to the start-up investment over a 5-year term and the waiving of permit fees for rehabilitation of existing buildings as allowed by Chapter 380 of the Texas Local Government Code. X (b) MOTIONS 24. Authorizing the City Manager to execute a contract for Economic Development services with the Greater Laredo Development Foundation doing business as the Laredo Economic Development Corporation in the amount of $560,000.00 for fiscal year 2017-2018. Funding is available in General and Bridge Funds. 25. Consideration for approval of the Roof Replacement for the City of Laredo Health Department located at 2600 Cedar Avenue Project as complete; release of retainage; and approval of final payment in the amount of $35,241.32 to ALC Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final construction contract amount is $704,826.38. Funding is available in the 2015 and 2016 CO Issues. 26. Consideration for approval of the CDBG Sidewalk Project District VIII (20 City-Blocks) as complete; release of retainage; and approval of final payment in the amount of $15,500.00 to ALC Construction, Inc., Laredo, Texas. Final construction contract amount is $150,500.00. Funding is available in the 42nd Action Year CDBG Grant. 27. Consideration for approval to award a professional services contract to Sherfey Engineering Company, L.L.C., Laredo, Texas, for an amount of $65,780.00 for design and preparation of plans and specifications for the El Eden Park Improvements to include a splash park, sidewalks, shade structures, picnic tables, benches, landscaping, lighting, and other amenities deemed necessary and located at 4735 Loma Vista Drive. Design work is to be done on a fast track basis. Funding is available in the 43rd Action Year CDBG Grant. 28. Authorizing the City Manager to grant a public fireworks display permit for the City of Laredo at Uni-trade Stadium located at 6320 Sinatra Pkwy. It will take place on March 24, 2018. The technicians for the display will be Pyrotecnico. 29. Authorizing the City Manager to enter into and execute contract payments with Spectrum for providing the existing 9-1-1 telephone network and maintenance for the South Texas Region, including Jim Hogg, Starr, Webb and Zapata Counties, in the amount of $106,000.00. Payments are for the period of September 1, 2017 through August 31, 2018. Funding is available in the 9-1-1 Regional Fund. 30. Authorizing the City Manager to ratify payment in the amount of $51,964.58 to the Firm of Greenberg Traurig, L.L.P. for past legal services related to the oral argument and post submission brief in Texas Supreme Court Case No. 16-0748 styled City of Laredo v. Laredo Merchants Association. The City has paid $415,668.70 to date in defense of its Checkout Bag Reduction Ordinance at issue in this case. Funding is available in the General Fund. 31. Consideration to award annual supply contract FY18-029 for the purchase of general electrical supplies to all City departments in an estimated amount up to $300,000.00 to the following vendors: 1) 3-G Electrical Supply, Laredo, Texas (Primary Vendor) 2) Core Supplies & Materials, Laredo, Texas (Secondary Vendor) This contract establishes discount percentage pricing for those electrical supplies most commonly utilized by City departments. The term of this contract shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning as of the date of its execution. This contract may be extended for two additional one year periods upon mutual agreement. All items will be purchased on an as needed basis and funding will be secured from the respective user departmental budgets. 32. Consideration to award contract FY18-028 for the purchase of heavy duty equipment for various city departments to the following vendors: Nueces Power Equipment, Laredo, Texas in the amount of $707,929.37 for the purchase of six (6) backhoes, one (1) case tractor, one (1) mini-excavator, and one (1) pad foot roller; 1. AG Pro-Company of Texas, Weslaco, Texas in the amount of $179,158.38 for the purchase of three (3) utility vehicles, four (4) riding mowers and two (2) tractors with tillers; 2. Ron Grant Equipment, Laredo, Texas in the amount of $49,950.00 for the purchase of five (5) backhoe trailers. 3. Funding is available from the 2015 Contractual Obligation Bond, Sports & Community Venue-Unitrade, 2017 Solid Waste PPFCO, and 2017 Sewer Revenue Bond. 33. Consideration to ratify contract FY18-027 for the purchase of veterinary medication to the following bidders: 1. Miller Veterinary, Fort Worth, Texas (Primary Vendor) in an amount up to $60,000.00 2. MWI Animal Health, Boise Idaho (Secondary Vendor) in an amount up to $60,000.00. The term of this contract shall be for a period of two (2) years, subject to future appropriations, beginning as of the date of its execution; contract may be extended for one, additional one (1) year period upon mutual agreement. All medications will be secured on an as needed basis. Funding is available in the Laredo Animal Care Department Fund. 34. Consideration to award annual contracts FY18-030 for the purchase of truck tires to the following bidders: 1. Items 1, 3, 4, & 5: Southern Tire Southwest, Columbia, Missouri in an amount up to $400,000.00; and 2. Item 2: GCR Tire Centers, Nashville, Tennessee in an amount up to $75,000.00. All tires will be secured on an as needed basis. The term of this contract shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning as of the date of its execution. This contract has two extension periods. Funding is available in the Fleet Maintenance budget. 35. Consideration to authorize the City Manager to enter into a three (3) year contract for the Collection of Delinquent Property Taxes with the firm of Flores, Flores, and Canales, P.L.L.C. 36. Refund of property tax in the amount of $747.83 payable to Kish Manwani due to an overpayment. Tax account # 558-01704-070. 37. Approving monthly adjustments to the tax roll. The amounts to be adjusted for the month of January 2018, represent a decrease of $10,655.77. These adjustments are determined by the Webb County Appraisal District and by court orders. 38. Consideration to ratify the issuance of an emergency purchase order by the City Manager in the amount not to exceed $90,000.00 to United Rentals, San Antonio, Texas for the rental of two 7500 GPM skid mounted diesel pumps, associated 18" HDPE by-pass pipe, manifold, and fittings at the El Pico Water Treatment Plant Intermediate Pump Station #2. Funding is available in the Waterworks-Water Treatment Division.
Consideration to adopt the 2018 Federal Legislative Agenda for the 115th U.S. Congressional Legislative Session.
STAFF REPORTS Discussion with possible action on ongoing audits and/or irregularities identified by the Internal Auditor including the potential assignment of other and/or additional auditing duties; and any other matters incident thereto.
Status Report on the Washington D.C. trip scheduled for March 4 - 8 to include private sponsorships collected by Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC).
XIII. RECESS AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL AND CONVENE AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD 41. Authorizing the Mass Transit Board to allow the Public Transportation Operator (El Metro) to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding among the Laredo Metropolitan Planning Organization ("MPO"), the Texas Department of Transportation ("TxDOT") and El Metro, the Laredo Public Transportation Operator as per the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) promulgated regulations 23 CFR 450.314. No financial impact. XIV. ADJOURN AS THE LAREDO MASS TRANSIT BOARD AND RECONVENE AS THE LAREDO CITY COUNCIL
Request by Mayor Pete Saenz Discussion with possible action on the study in the Northwest quadrant traffic study from Colombia Road State Highway (255) to IH 35 along Mines Road addressing freight mobility and local non commercial traffic for the purpose of alleviating congestion and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion with possible action to prioritize the outer loop roadway initiating in South Laredo in coordination with Bridge V timeline and any other matters incident thereto.
Discussion with possible action on the City's and State's Traffic Synchronization Project and any other matters incident thereto.
Request by Council Member George Altgelt Discussion and possible action to require the City of Laredo Animal Shelter to change their policies to allow for low cost adoption alternatives in order to gain control of the number of animals that are being euthanized weekly. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel)
Discussion with possible action to schedule a workshop to present the possibility to defease the debt from the 2011 and 2014 Sports Venue Tax Bonds and the possible transition to 4A-4 B or Economic Development D istrict taxation and any matters incident thereto. (Co-sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel and Council Member George Altgelt)
Discussion and possible action to audit the City of Laredo's ADA compliance for all city facilities. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Charlie San Miguel)
Discussion and possible action to build a public boat ramp for canoes and kayaks at the Max Mandel golf course.
Request by Council Member Roberto Balli Discussion with possible action to design and construct cycling lanes along Zacate Creek between Chicago/Taylor and Jefferson/Lyon to connect same to the San Bernardo/Santa Maria cycling lanes. (Co-Sponsored by Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr. and Council Member Nelly Vielma)
Request by Council Member Roberto Balli (Supplemental Agenda) Discussion with possible action to create and adopt an ordinance addressing attendance of appointees, set schedule/calendar for meeting dates, and quorum policies as it pertains to the City's Boards and Commissions; and other matters incident thereto. ( Co-Sponsored by Mayor Pro-Tempore Alejandro "Alex" Perez, Council Member Vidal Rodriguez, and Council Member Alberto Torres, Jr)
Discussion with poss i b le action to create a n O rd i n a nce and/or Resolution req uiring the C ity Secretary to publish o n the C ity's Webs ite all Candid ate and Office holder Campaign F i na nce Reports ( C F R) and Campaig n Treasu rer Appoi ntme nts by a Candidate (CTA) with i n 48 h o u rs from submission to the C ity Secretary's Office and that an O n l i ne Archive be made avai lable for all previously fi led C F R's and CTA's ; and any other matters incident thereto. (Co-S ponsored by Council Member Roberto Balli)
Discussion with possible action to create a n o rd i n a nce to al low law enforcement and/or constitue nts acting in g ood faith to rescue a ny a n imal that may be left i n a ve h icle , s pecifically d u ri n g extreme weather con d itions; and any other matters incident thereto.
Request by Council Member Nelly Vielma 1. Discussion with possible action to create a Citizens' Advisory Board to assist the Financial Innovation Officer to make technological improvements, department and budget efficien cies recomme nd ations to C o u n cil and any matters incident thereto. (Co-sponsored by Council Member George Altgelt) XV. ADJOURN