HomeMy WebLinkAboutNovember 11, 2003REGULAR MEETTNG - November 11, 2003
ROLL CALL~ INVOCATION & PLEDGE
The City Council of the City of Port Arthur met in Regular Session on Tuesday, November
11, 2003 at 8:43 a.m. in the City Council Chamber, City Hall, with the following members
present: Mayor Ortiz; Councilmembers Craig Hannah, Felix A. Barker, Thomas J.
Henderson, Rose Chaisson and Michael "Shane" Sinegal; City Manager Steve Fitzgibbons;
City Secretary Evangeline "Van" Green and City Attorney Mark Sokolow.
The invocation was given by Councilmember Henderson followed by the pledge to the
flag.
Councilmember John Beard, Jr. arrived at the City Council meeting at 8:58 a.m.
Mayor Pro Tern Tom Gillam, ][I]~ arrived at the City Council meeting at 9:10 a.m.
Councilmember Ronnie Thompson arrived at the City Council meeting at 9:27 a.m.
PROCLAMATIONS & MINUTES
The Mayor presented the following Proclamations:
(2)
(3)
November 23 - 29, 2003 as "Family Week"
November 15, 2003 as "Texas Recycle Day"
November 20, 2003 as "Great American Smoke Out Day"
PETTTIONS &COI~IMUNICATIONS
A. Speakers
(1)
Kerry LaGrone Update On City Of Port Arthur And EDC IASIS
Project
Mr. Kerry LaGrone, 13810 Champion Forrest Drive, Houston, appeared before the City
Council to introduce Project Superintendent Simon Carron. Mr. LaGrone distributed and
discussed an Employment Impact Report. He announced a groundbreaking ceremony will
be held November 18, 2003 and a local employment trailer is currently located on Jimmy
Johnson Boulevard.
II. PROCLAMATTONS & MINUTES
Minutes - Regular Meeting - October 28, 2003
Upon the motion of Councilmember Sinegal, seconded by Councilmember Henderson and
carried unanimously, the City Council approved the above-mentioned Minutes.
Minutes - Special Meeting - November 4, 2003
Upon the motion of Councilmember Sinegal, seconded by Councilmember Barker and
carried unanimously, the City Council approved the above-mentioned Minutes.
III. PETITIONS &COMMUNIICATTONS
A. Soeakers
(2)
Clay Roy Regarding Decisions Pertaining To The City's Water
Towers - NOT PRESENT
(3) Renee' Braggs Regarding Excessive Water Bill - NOT
PRESENT
(4)
Kenneth Lofton Regarding Pop Warner Port Arthur Cowboys
Football Team
Mr. Kenneth Lofton, 3625 Twelfth Street, appeared before the City Council to distribute a
football game itinerary and to request consideration in financial support for a team event
in Orlando, Florida.
Councilmember Sinegal spoke in support of the Pop Warner football program.
B. Corresoondence
None
V[l~. [TEMS REQUTR/NG TND[VZDUAL ACT[ON - NON-CONSENT
(10)
P. R. No. 12426 - A Resolution Approving The Request Of The
Pleasure [sland Commission To Temporarily Suspend The
Repayment Of The $300,000 Note As Tt Pertains To The Golf Course
Clubhouse.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Barker and seconded by Councilmember
Henderson that Proposed Resolution No. 12426 be adopted.
Chairman of the Pleasure Island Commission, Lance Bradley, 425 Island Way, appeared
before the City Council to request consideration in suspending the golf course note
payments. Mr. Bradley discussed changes and additional development plans.
Councilmember Sinegal requested a formal report for Pleasure Island's development plans
to attract revenue and tourism.
Mayor Ortiz commended the Pleasure Island Commission for its beautiful golf course.
Proposed Resolution No. 12426 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-315.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-315 reads as follows:
RESOLUT'rON NO. 03-315
A RESOLUTTON APPROVTNG THE REQUEST OF
THE PLEASURE TSLAND COMMTSSZON TO
TEMPORARTLY SUSPEND THE REPAYMENT OF
THE $300,000 NOTE AS TT PERTATNS TO THE
GOLF COURSE CLUBHOUSE.
TV. PUBLTC HEARTNGS - 9:00AM
(1) To Review The Plans For The Proposed Annexation Of The
Properties Of BASF, Chevron, U.S.A., Clark Refining &
Marketing, Equilon Enterprises, Huntsman Petrochemicals,
Texaco, Onyx And Chemical Waste Management, Which
Tncludes But Ts Not Limited To, TRACT "1" - TNCLUDTNG
TEXACO, EQUTLON And CHEVRON LEASED TRACTS AND
VTCTN]ITY: TRACT "2" - CHEVRON U.S.A., TNC.; TRACT "3" -
HUNTSMAN CORP., ETHEL CORP., EQUTLON ENTERPRTSES,
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 2
L.LC. & VICINITY; TRACT "4" - BASF PROPERTY & VICINITY,
And The ~.36 Acre Tract Of ONYX & CHEHZCAL WASTE
MANAGEMENT, As Well As To Annex Adiacent Property.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned public hearing.
The City Attorney discussed industrial negotiations, the annexation process and the
necessity of the public hearings.
Planning/Grants Director Watson appeared before the City Council and read the five
proposed service plans for each tract.
The Mayor requested to hear from anyone present in the audience who wished to speak
regarding the above-mentioned annexation.
Mr. Lynn Morris Williams, 741 West Procter, appeared before the City Council concerning
expanding and developing the job market in the community.
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Barker and
carried unanimously, the City Council dosed the Public Hearing at 9:41 a.m.
(2) To Consider Rezoning Lots I - 66, Lafitte's Landing II,
Pleasure Zsland From Heavy Commercial (HC) To Single
Family (SF). Applicant: Loran Bosarge~ Et Al; Zoning Case: 03-
05.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned public hearing.
Planning/Grants Director Watson appeared before the City Council to discuss the proposed
rezoning of Lafitte's Landing ii and explained the permitting process.
The Mayor requested to hear from anyone present in the audience who wished to speak
regarding the above-mentioned rezoning.
Mr. isaac Mills, a Lafitte Landing ii landowner, appeared before the City Council to speak
in opposition of the proposed rezoning and requested to be "grand-fathered in" to the
present zoning, it was determined that Mr. Mills would be allowed to construct an office
building with his existing building permit.
Mr. Loran Bosarge, 3576 South M. L. King Drive, appeared before the City Council to
encourage support of the proposed residential rezoning.
Mr. Stuart Salter, 8412 Hollow Bend Lane and :3770 South M. L. King Drive, appeared
before the City Council to voice support of the proposed residential rezoning.
Mr. Dali Landry, 3594 South M. L. King Drive, appeared before the City Council to request
consideration of the proposed residential rezoning.
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Sinegal and
carried unanimously, the City Council dosed the Public Hearing at 9:51 a.m.
V. UNFZNZSHED BUS~NESS
None
VIL CONSENT AGENDA
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Hannah and
carried unanimously, the following Consent Agenda items were adopted with the
exception of item C and Proposed Resolutions No. 12420 and 12428:
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 3
A. Consideration And Approvat Of Payment To Orange County
De
Emergency Services Pistrict No. 2 Zn The Amount Of
$121,369.00.
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Affordable
Ara/arena, ce Of Port Arthur, Texas To Pressure Wash City
Hall Zn The Amount Of $8,500.
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Phi/port
Ford ~fotor Company Of Neder/and~ Texas For One 2004
Model 1-Ton Service Pickup Truck With Lift Gate And Air
Compressor Zn The Amount Of $28,996 For The Transit
Department.
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Summit
E/ec~r/¢ 0£ Beaumon~ Texas For Two Adjustable Frequency
Drives [n The Amount Of $6,300 For The Utility Operations
Department (Wastewater Treatment Division).
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To De/fa
Proce~ EquJpmen¢ Inc,, Of De, ham Spring~ LA For A Self-
Priming Sewage Pump In The Amount Of $9,221 For The
Utility Operations Department (Wastewater Treatment
Division).
Gm
Hm
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Jersey
Equipment Company Of Houston Inc., Houston, Te, va$ For
One Vertical Non-Clog Sewage Pump Zn The Amount Of
$12,275 For The Utility Operations Department (Wastewater
Treatment Division).
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To TEX-PRO
Overhead Door Company Of Beaumon~ Texas For The
Furnishing And Installation Of Two Overhead Roiling Doors In
The Amount Of $6,501 For The Utility Operations Department
(Wastewater Treatment Division).
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Saladin
Pump & Equipment Company Inc., Of Beaumon¢ Texas For A
Vertical Line Shaft Mixed Flow Pump (For The Main
Wast.water Treatment Plant) In The Amount Of $19,629 For
The Utility Operations Department (Wastewater Treatment
Plant).
Consideration And Approval For Payment For The City's Share
Of The 2004 Greater Port Arthur Chamber Of Commerce
Community Calendars In The Amount Of $7,500.
Exaense Accounts
Mayor Oscar G. Ortiz:
Use Of Personal Auto In Town On City Business,
October, 2003 $ 100.00
Use Of Personal Auto Out Of Town On City Business,
41.76
October, 2003 $
Councilmember Michael Sinegal:
Use Of Personal Auto On City Business,
October, 2003
$ 100.00
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 4
Councilmember ]ohn Beard, ]r.:
Use Of Personal Auto On City Business,
August-October, 2003
$ 300.00
Councilmember Felix A. Barker:
Use Of Personal Auto Zn Town On City Business,
October, 2003
Use Of Personal Auto Out Of Town On City Business,
Octobe~ 2003
100.00
48.96
Councilmember Thomas 3. Henderson:
Use Of Personal Auto tn Town On City Business,
September-October, 2003
Use Of Personal Auto Out Of Town On City Business,
September-October, 2003
$ 194.40
$ 17.28
City Attorney Mark Sokolow:
Use Of Personal Auto On City Business,
October 8 - 27, 2003
$ 12.68
Resolutions - Consent
(1)
P. R. No. 12398 - A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Port
Arthur To Accept A Proposal From Birch Telecom To Provide
Local And Long Distance Telephone Service.
Proposed Resolution No. 12398 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-316.
(2)
P. R. No. 12406 - A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor And
City Manager To Execute A Contract tn The Amount Of
$1,247,437 Between The City Of Port Arthur And Wi/co Harsh
Buggies inc., Of Harrero, !~4 For The Construction Of Cell 46
At The City's Sanitary Landfill; Funding ts Available tn The FY
2004 Budget; Account No. 303-1601-591.59-00.
Proposed Resolution No. 12406 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-317.
(3)
P. R. No. 12410 - A Resolution Approving Payment tn The
Amount Of $74,695 For The TCEQ Annual Consolidated Water
Quality Assessment Fees For All Four (4) Wastewater
Treatment Facilities tn The City Of Port Arthur; Account No.
410-1256-532.54.00.
Proposed Resolution No. 12410 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-318.
(4)
P. R. No. 12412 - A Resolution Authorizing Acceptance Of The
Certificate Of Completion, Contractor's Certificate And
Release And Contractor's Certificate Of Guarantee On The
Demolition Of The Gilham Circle Elevated Water Storage Tank
And Approving Final Payment Of $11,600.00 To Iseler
Demolition, inc., And Authorizing The City Manager To Sign
The Certificate Of Acceptance On Behalf Of The City Of Port
Arthur, Texas; Fund No. 419-1622-531.85-00, Project No.
419702.
Proposed Resolution No. 12412 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-319.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 5
(5)
P. R. No. 12416 - A Resolution Awarding A Contract To The
Lowest Responsible Bidder And Authorizing The Execution Of
The Contract For 3anitoriai Sewices To ~fcLemore Bu//d/ng
Maintenance, [nc., Of Houston, Texas For A Total Amount Of
$19,680.00 For The Port Arthur Health Department; Account
No. 001-1301-541.32000.
Proposed Resolution No. 12416 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-320.
(6)
P. R. No. 12417 - A Resolution Authorizing The Renewal Of A
Contract To ~andra's Enterprises For Grass Cutting Services
Of Privately-Owned And City-Owned Vacant Lots Zn An Area
Of The City Designated As Area B; To Be Charged To Account
No. 001-1401-551.59.00.
Proposed Resolution No. 12417 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-321.
(7)
P. R. No. 12418 - A Resolution Authorizing The Renewal Of A
Contract To ~7oey's Tractor Service For Grass Cutting Services
Of Privately-Owned And City-Owned Vacant Lots In An Area
Of The City Designated As Area C; To Be Charged To Account
No. 001-1401-551.59.00.
Proposed Resolution No. 12418 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-322.
(8)
P. R. No. 12419 - A Resolution Authorizing The Renewal Of A
Contract To Joey's Tractor Serv/ce For Grass Cutting Services
Of Privately-Owned And City-Owned Vacant Lots In An Area
Of The City Designated As Area D; To Be Charged To Account
No. 001-1401-551.59.00.
Proposed Resolution No. 12419 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-323.
VII. ITEMS RE(~UIRING INDIVIDUAL ACTION - CONSENT
C. Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Alike
Barnette Construction Of Port Nec/es, Texas For Reservoir
Fencing In The Amount Of $15,925 For The Utility Operations
Department (Water Purification Division).
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Ttem.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Sinegal that Ttem C be adopted.
City Attorney Sokolow recommended the City Council hold this item until after the
Executive Session.
Councilmember Henderson and Councilmember Sinegal withdrew their motions to approve
Ttem C until more information is obtained.
Resolutions - Consent
(9) P.R. No. 12420 - A Resolution Approving "Food For Fines"
Week At Port Arthur Public Library.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 6
The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gillam and seconded by Councilmember
Henderson that Proposed Resolution No. 12420 be adopted.
Library Director Ray Cline appeared before the City Council to discuss the "Food for Fines"
program. He stated that he had polled other libraries prior to planning the program and
that it will be conducted one time per year.
Proposed Resolution No. 12420 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-324.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and $inegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-324 reads as follows:
RESOLUTZON NO. 03-324
A RESOLUTt'ON APPROV1~NG "FOOD FOR Ft'NES'
WEEK AT PORT ARTHUR PUBLt'C LI'BRARY.
(10) P. R. No. 12428 - A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager
To Take $6,737.50 Out Of The FY 2004 Golf Course Capital
Improvement Fund To Pay For A Portion Of The Aquila Golf,
Inc.'s Share Of The Pump Repairs At Babe Didrickson
Zaharias Memorial Golf Course, Account No. 103-2001-
601.87-00.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Barker and seconded by Councilmember
Henderson that Proposed Resolution No. 12428 be adopted.
City Manager Fitzgibbons stated the Golf Committee amended the contract to include
pump repair maintenance as a shared expense on a pro rata basis.
Proposed Resolution No. 12428 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-325.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz] Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah,
Henderson, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
Councilmember Beard was not present in the Council Chamber during the vote.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-325 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-325
A RESOLUTI'ON AUTHOP, ZZI'NG THE C1'TY
MANAGER TO TAKE $6,737.50 OUT OF THE FY
2004 GOLF COURSE CAPTTAL TMPROVEMENT
FUND TO PAY FOR A PORTI'ON OF THE AQUI'LA
GOLF, I'NC.'S SHARE OF THE PUMP REPAIRS AT
BABE DIDRICKSON ZAHARZAS MEMORIAL
GOLF COURSE, ACCOUNT NO. 103-2001-
601.87-00.
Barker,
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 7
VII.
A,
ITEMS REQUIRING INDIVIDUAL ACTION
Resolutions - Non-Consent
P. R. No. 12404 - A Resolution Pertaining To The Transfer Or
Sale Of Bent Tree Village And Park Central Village To Bent
Tree Village, Ltd. And Autumn Chase Park, Ltd.
The Mayor held the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution until after the Executive
Session.
(2) P.R. No. 12407 - A Resolution Authorizing The City Manager
To Contract With Reuben A. Brown (BW Architects) For
Professional Services For Phase I Of The Small Business
Enterprise Program In The Amount Of $36,000.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Sinegal that Proposed Resolution No. 12407 be adopted.
Councilmember Beard returned to his seat in the Council Chamber at 10:07 a.m.
City Manager Fitzgibbons explained the key issues of the phases proposed by BW
Architects and the value of IVlr. Brown's services to the city. He mentioned the Port Arthur
Economic Development Corporation would also be considered as a funding source for the
program.
Councilmember Beard also commented in support of the initiative.
Mr. Rueben Brown, 9894 Bissonet, Houston, appeared before the City Council to discuss
his role in providing assistance in developing a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program.
Mayor Ortiz discussed concerns with abatement contracts and discussed utilizing Lamar
State College Port Arthur students to monitor employment compliance of abatement
contracts.
EDC Executive Director Mills, appeared before the City Council to discuss the effectiveness
of a Small Business Enterprise Program to the infrastructure and the Economic
Development Corporation Board's approval of funding.
The following roll call vote was taken on the motion to adopt Proposed Resolution 12407:
Councilmember Barker
Councilmember Beard
Councilmember Chaisson
Councilmember Hannah
Councilmember Henderson
Councilmember Sinegal
Councilmember Thompson
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam
Mayor Ortiz
"Yes"
"Yes"
"No"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
"Yes"
Proposed Resolution No. 12407 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-326.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-326 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-326
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO CONTRACT WITH REUBEN A.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 8
BROWN (BW ARCHITECTS) FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVZCES FOR PHASE ! OF THE SMALL BUSINESS
ENTERPRISE PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF
$36,000.
(3)
P. R. No. 12408 - A Resolution Authorizing The Calling Of A
Public Hearing To Consider Whether Or Not Public
Convenience And Necessity Require The Operation Of
Proposed Wrecker Business For 3oseph Boone, Sr., DBA
Boone's Towing And Recovery.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Sinegal that Proposed Resolution No. 12408 be adopted.
City Attorney Sokolow recommended setting a Public Hearing four weeks from this date,
December 9, 2003.
Proposed Resolution No. 12408 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-327.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Henderson,
Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
Councilmember Barker was not present in the Council Chamber during the vote.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-327 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-327
A RESOLUTI~ON AUTHORIZtNG THE CALL1~NG OF A
PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER WHETHER OR
NOT PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY
REQUIRE THE OPERATION OF PROPOSED
WRECKER BUSINESS FOR 3OSEPH BOONE, SR.,
DBA BOONE'S TOWING AND RECOVERY.
(4)
P. R. No. 12413 - A Resolution Rescinding A Contract With
Atlas Tunnels & Excavation And Awarding A Contract To
Provost Demo/it/on & Construction in The Amount Of
$13,900.00 And Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For
The Demolition Of Seven (7) Dangerous Residential
Properties (Group C) To Be Charged To Account No. 105-
1431-552.59-00, Project No. C29120.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Councilmember Barker returned to his seat in the Council Chamber at 11:08 a.m.
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Gillam and
carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 12413 was adopted becoming Resolution
No. 03-328.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 9
The caption of Resolution No. 03-328 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-328
A RESOLUTTON RESCZNDING A CONTRACT Wt'TH
ATLAS TUNNELS & EXCAVATTON AND AWARDTNG
A CONTRACT TO PROVOST DEMOLTTZON &
CONSTRUCTION IN THE AMOUNT OF $13,900.00
AND AUTHORI'ZTNG THE EXECUTI'ON OF A
CONTRACT FOR THE DEMOLZTt'ON OF SEVEN (7)
DANGEROUS RESIDENTTAL PROPERTtES (GROUP
C) TO BE CHARGED TO ACCOUNT NO. 105-1431-
552.59-00, PRO3ECT NO. C29120.
(5)
P. R. No. 12414 - A Resolution Rescinding A Contract With
Atlas Tunnels & Excavation And Awarding A Contract To
Provost Demolition 8 Constru~Jon In The Amount Of
$14,200.00 And Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For
The Demolition Of Seven (7) Dangerous Residential
Properties (Group D) To Be Charged To Account No. 105-
1431-552.59-00, Project No. C29120.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion of Mayor Pro Tem GJllam, seconded by Councilmember Henderson and
carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 12414 was adopted becoming Resolution
No. 03-329.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and $inegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-329 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-329
A RESOLUTZON RESCZNDING A CONTRACT WITH
ATLAS TUNNELS & EXCAVATION AND AWARDZNG
A CONTRACT TO PROVOST DEMOLITION &
CONSTRUCTION IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,200.00
AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
CONTRACT FOR THE DEMOLITTON OF SEVEN (7)
DANGEROUS RESIDENTTAL PROPERTZES (GROUP
D) TO BE CHARGED TO ACCOUNT NO. 105-1431-
552.59-00, PRO.1ECT NO. C29120.
(6)
P. R. No. 12415 - A Resolution Rescinding A Contract With
Atlas Tunnels & Excavation And Awarding A Contract To
_rnland Environment~, .mc. In The Amount Of $14,300.00 And
Authorizing The Execution Of A Contract For The Demolition
Of Seven (7) Dangerous Residential Properties (Group E) To
Be Charged To Account No. 105-1431-552.59-00, Project No.
C29120.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion of Councilmember Henderson, seconded by Councilmember Barker and
carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 12415 was adopted becoming Resolution
No. 03-330.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 10
Voting Yes: Mayor 0rtiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-330 reads as follows:
RESOLUTTON NO. 03-330
A RESOLUTrON RESCTNDrNG A CONTRACT WZTH
ATLAS TUNNELS & EXCAVATrON AND AWARDYNG
A CONTRACT TO TNLAND ENVIRONMENTS, TNC.
I'N THE AMOUNT OF $14,300.00 AND
AUTHOR/ZING THE EXECUTION OF A CONTRACT
FOR THE DEMOLIT1~ON OF SEVEN (7)
DANGEROUS RESIDENTI~AL PROPERTTES (GROUP
E) TO BE CHARGED TO ACCOUNT NO. 105-1431-
552.59-00, PRO.1ECT NO. C29120.
(7)
Hannah, Barker,
P. R. No. 12423 - A Resolution Ratifying And Confirming
Appointment(s) To The Board Of Directors Of The Port Arthur
Housing Finance Corporation.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Beard that Proposed Resolution No. 12423 be adopted.
Councilmember Henderson nominated Mr. Jerry Mdnnis to serve as a Board Director on
above-mentioned nominee
the Port Arthur Housing Finance Corporation.
Proposed Resolution No. 12423 was adopted with the
becoming Resolution No. 03-331.
Voting Yes:
Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-331 reads as follows:
(8)
The Mayor
Session.
(9)
Barker,
RESOLUTrON NO. 03-331
A RESOLUTTON RATrFYING AND CONFIRMING
APpOI'NTMENT(S) TO THE BOARD OF DI'RECTORS
OF THE PORT ARTHUR HOUSING FTNANCE
CORPORATION.
P.R. No. 12424 - A Resolution Approving The Purchase By The
Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation Executive
Director Of A Phone System From Southwestern Bell At The
EDC Building Located At 4173 39t~ Street In The Amount Of
$9,537.24.
held the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution until alter the Executive
P. R. No. 12425 A Resolution Appointing And/Or
Reappointing A Member Or Members To The Planning And
Zoning Commission.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes
11
The ayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Coundlmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
SJnegal that Proposed Resolution No. ].2425 be adopted.
City Secreta Green read the following Planning and Zoning Commission nominations into
the record:
Mr. Philip Todora
Mr. Richard Cox
(Reappointment)
(New Appointment)
Proposed Resolution No. 12425 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-332.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
None.
Voting No:
The caption of Resolution No. 03-332 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-332
A RESOLUTION APPO?NTt'NG
AND/OR
REAPPO?NTtNG A MEMBER OR MEMBERS TO THE
PLANNtNG AND ZONI~NG COMMt'SSION.
(11) P. R. No. 12430 - A Resolution Requesting That The Economic
Development Corporation Pay Their Equal Share Of The
Pleasure Island Water Tower And Water Line Project Costs As
They Committed To Do In Their November 1999 EDC Board
Meeting. (Requested By Mayor Ortiz)
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Councilmember Henderson and seconded by Councilmember
Sinegal that Proposed Resolution No. 12430 be adopted.
City Manager Fitzgibbons reported that the Pleasure Island Water Tower and Water Line
Project costs, including overruns, were equally shared by the City, .]efferson County, the
Pleasure Island Commission and the Economic Development Corporation.
Finance Director Underhill appeared before the City Council to report that the entities have
made payments with the exception of the EDC.
EDC Executive Director Mills appeared before the City Council and requested copies of
invoices and additional supporting documentation.
Proposed Resolution No. 12430 was adopted becoming Resolution No. 03-333.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tern Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Thompson, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-333 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-333
A RESOLUTION RE(~UESTING THAT THE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PAY
THEIR E(}UAL SHARE OF THE PLEASURE ISLAND
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 12
WATER TOWER AND WATER LINE PRO3ECT
COSTS AS THEY COMMITt'ED TO DO IN THEIR
NOVEMBER 1999 EDC BOARD MEETING.
(REQUESTED BY MAYOR ORTIZ)
The City Council recessed their meeting at 11:27 a.m. for a luncheon at Rose Hill
Manor and reconvened at 1:30 p.m. with the following members present: Mayor
Ortiz, Mayor Pro Tem Gillam, Councilmembers Hannah, Barker, Henderson,
Chaisson (present in the Chamber), and Sinegal; City Manager Fitzgibbons; City
Secretary Green and City Attorney Sokolow.
Councilmember Beard arrived at the meeting during the Executive Session at 1:35
ZX. *CLOSED MEETZNG (EXECUTZVE SESSION)
Closed Meetinq:
(1) Section 551.087 Government Code - To Discuss Economic
Zncentives As Zt Pertains To Residential, Hospital,
Commercial And Residential Projects.
(2) Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The City
Attorney And Robin Morse Potential Litigation With The
Environmental Protection Agency As It Pertains To The
Superfund Site.
(3) Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The City
Attorney Pending Or Prospective Litigation With Hayes And
Affiliated Entities.
(4) Section 551.072 Government Code- To Discuss The Value Of
Land Adjacent To The Proposed Extension Of Jimmy Johnson
And Park Central Boulevard.
(5) Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With Brian
Begle The Pending Litigation Of Mills vs. City And The
Economic Development Corporation.
The City Council recessed their meeting at 1:32 p.m. to meet in Executive Session to
consider the above-mentioned topics, and reconvened their meeting at 3:50 p.m. with the
following members present: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah,
Barker, Henderson, Beard, Chaisson, and Sinegal; City Manager Fitzgibbons; City
Secretary Green and City Attorney Sokolow.
Councilmember Thompson arrived at the meeting during the Executive Session at 1:46
p.m. and left the City Council meeting after the closed session at 3:50 p.m.
VIT. ITEMS RE(~UIR[NG INDIV]~DUALACTION
Item - Consent
Consideration And Approval Of Awarding A Bid To Iq/ke
Barnette Construct/on Of Port Ne¢/zes~ Te~:as For Reservoir
Fencing In The Amount Of $15,925 For The Utility Operations
Department (Water Purification Division).
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Item.
City Attorney Sokolow recommended that the City Council table Item C.
Upon the motion of Mayor Pro Tern Gillam, seconded by Councilmember Beard and
unanimously carried, Item C was tabled pending additional information.
November 11, 2002 - City Council Meeting Minutes 13
A. Resolutions - Non-Consent
(1)
P. R. No. 12404 - A Resolution Pertaining To The Transfer Or
Sale Of Bent Tree Village And Park Central Village To Bent
Tree Village, Ltd. And Autumn Chase Park, Ltd.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gillam and seconded by Counciimember
Henderson to adopt Proposed Resolution No. 12404.
City Attorney Sokolow read the following into the record as part of the motion:
The resolution will have an Exhibit "B" as follows:
The request of Ike Akbari and his affiliated companies is approved pending the
following conditions:
That Ike Akbari and his affiliated companies
produce a true and correct copy of their
applications for FHA Insurance that they filed
with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development Multi-Family Housing Division.
That Tke Akbari and his affiliated companies
produce a copy of all earnest money agreements
for the following apartment complexes: Bent
Tree, Park Central, Stonegate, Pebble Creek,
Turtle Creek, Heatherbrook and Timber Creek.
That Ike Akbari will produce all computations of
surplus cash that have been filed by Bent Tree
and Park Central with HUD since the date of their
inception.
That Ike Akbari will sign an authorization that will
allow the City Attorney, City Manager or their
designees to review the files of HUD as it pertains
to their applications for FHA Insurance.
That the City reserves the right to rescind this
approval if these documents are not promptly
produced to the City or if these documents show
that the City's lien position or claims for excess
surplus cash will be materially compromised.
That the City will abide by the privacy procedures
of Section 552.305 Government Code if this
information is marked confidential and proprietary
by Ike Akbari. Nevertheless, this will not
preclude the City from seeking past due surplus
cash or arrearages.
Proposed Resolution No. 12420 was adopted with the inclusion of Exhibit "B" becoming
Resolution No. 03-334.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 14
The caption of Resolution No. 03-334 reads as follows:
RESOLUTtON NO. 03-334
A RESOLUTTON PERTATN?NG TO THE
TRANSFER OR SALE OF BENT TREE VTLLAGE
AND PARK CENTRAL Vt'LLAGE TO BENT
TREE VZLLAGE~ LTD. AND AUTUMN CHASE
PARK, LTD.
(8)
P. R. No. 12424 - A Resolution Approving The Purchase By
The Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation Executive
Director Of A Phone System From Southwestern Bell At The
EDC Building Located At 4173 39m Street In The Amount Of
$9,537.24.
The Mayor introduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution.
Upon the motion of Mayor Pro Tem Gillam, seconded by Councilmember $inegal and
carried unanimously, Proposed Resolution No. 12424 was adopted becoming Resolution
No. 03-335.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker,
Henderson, Beard, Chaisson and Sinegal.
Voting No: None.
The caption of Resolution No. 03-335 reads as follows:
RESOLUTION NO. 03-335
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PURCHASE BY
THE ECONOMTC DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR OF A PHONE SYSTEM FROM
SOUTHWESTERN BELL AT THE EDC BUILDING
LOCATED AT 4173 39TM STREET IN THE AMOUNT
OF $9~537.24.
The City Attorney recommended the following action:
Upon the motion of Mayor Pro Tem Gillam, seconded by Councilmember Henderson, and
unanimously carried, approval was granted for a payment in the amount of $16,116.37 to
the Germer law firm for the legal services of Attorney Guy Goodson concerning the Hayes
condemnation litigation.
Voting Yes: Mayor Ortiz; Councilmembers Hannah, Barker, Henderson, Beard, Chaisson
and $inegal.
Voting No: None.
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam left his Council seat at 3:55 p.m. and returned at 3:56 p.m.
B. Ordinances
None
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 15
C. *Reports/ nd Recommendations
(1) September, 2003 Financial Report
Finance Director Rebecca Underhill presented the above-mentioned report. Mrs. Underhill
noted the Preliminary Report for Year Ending September 2003 results are being audited
and will be presented in a revised format to the City Council in January.
Councilmember $inegal requested Convention and Tourism Executive Director Ko~zur
submit a report of hotel occupancy during the time of the Pop Warner event.
(2) Report On Bank CRA Activities
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam stated he has provided a list of questions and issues to be
addressed in the request for depository proposals. The Mayor Pro Tern requested the
banking CEO's address the City Council regarding community reinvestment. Mayor Pro
Tem Gillam read into record the following:
The Community Reinvestment Act Itself
The Community Reinvestment Act is intended to encourage
depository institutions to help meet the credit needs of the
communities in which they operate, including Iow and
moderate-income neighborhoods. It was enacted by the
Congress of 1977 and is implemented by Regulation BB. The
regulation was revised in May 1995.
In 1977, Congress enacted the Community Reinvestment Act
to require banks, thrifts, and other lenders to make capital
available in Iow and moderate-income urban neighborhoods.
Thereby, boosting the Nation's efforts to stabilize these
declining areas. Concern over potential environmental and
financial liability for cleaning up these sites has made lenders,
developers and property owners reluctant to finance
redevelopment of these properties. Rather than reuse former
urban industrial sites, businesses have instead moved to
suburban or rural green fields, which carry fewer perceived
risks to develop.
In .lanuary 1995, EPA announced its original Brownfields
Action Agenda in response to the widespread economic
development obstacles posed by urban brown fields. The
1995 - 1996 Brownfields Action Agenda encouraged a
cooperative approach by EPA, lenders and prospective
purchasers to ease fears of financial liability and regulatory
burdens. EPA has coordinated with the Office of the
Comptroller of the Currency to create incentives within the
CRA Regulations for economic revitalization and development.
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam concluded that lending institutions have a responsibility to reinvest
in Port Arthur, most importantly the areas the City Council has been attacking for the last
three to four years, the contaminated areas of the Westside and the downtown area. The
Mayor Pro Tem requested that the City Manager distribute copies of the information to the
City Council for consideration.
(3) Report On Meter Readings And Water Bills
Utility Operations Director Kelly Eldridge presented the above-mentioned report.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 16
Coundlmember Hannah suggested changing the procedures of estimating water bills to
effectively serve our citizens. Me recommended making personal contacts with citizens, as
opposed to sending a letter or leaving a door hanger and extending the work hours,
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam requested the City Manager devise a plan to monitor street, water,
storm water, wastewater and final repair maintenance operations. To reduce the number
of water bill estimations, the Mayor Pro Tern requested enacting a policy to give citizens
notification when utility workers are unable to read the water meter.
Councilmember Sinegal noted fluctuations in water billing amounts as one of the main
citizen complaints.
(2) Report On Bank CRA Activities (Continued)
Mayor Pro Tem Gillam requested the following information from the banking institutions:
1. The number of home loans and dollar amounts funded.
The number of business (commercial and retail) loans and dollar
amounts funded.
o
The plans of activity for economic revitalization in our urban areas/
Brownfields areas of the city. In particular, zip codes 77640, 77641,
77642 and 77643.
Mayor Ortiz instructed the City Secretary to compose a letter to invite local financial
institutions to appear before the regarding the above-mentioned information.
Councilmember Sinegal requested additional information concerning loan denials and the
dollar amounts.
(4) Report On Proposed FY 2004 Street Program
Public Works Director McMahen presented the above-mentioned report and requested City
Council suggestions. The Public Works Director was instructed to submit paper copies and
arrange a tour of the proposed street improvements,
(5) Report On School Zone Safety
Police Chief Tyler presented the above-mentioned report.
(6)
Report On 3oint Advisory (Port Arthur City Council & PAISD)
Committee Meeting Held On October 21, 2003
Councilmember Chaisson reported the Joint Advisory Committee discussed school safety
issues, the impending bond issue, payment of the water tower logo painting and
committee structure and noted the next meeting will be in February 2004.
Utility Operations Interim Director Eldridge reported that the contractor has started the
logo painting.
(7) Status Report On The Port Arthur Redevelopment Initiative
Port Arthur Redevelopment Initiative representatives were not present to present the
above-mentioned report.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 17
REPORTS OF BOARDS
None
VII. ITEMS REQUIRING INDIVIDUAL ACTION - NON-CONSENT
A. Resolutions
(1)
P. R. No. 12404 - A Resolution Pertaining To The Transfer Or
Sale Of Bent Tree Viliage And Park Central Village To Bent
Tree Village, Ltd. And Autumn Chase Park, Ltd.
The Mayor reIintroduced the above-mentioned Proposed Resolution for
reconsideration.
The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gillam and seconded by Councilmember Beard
to reconsider Proposed Resolution No. 12404 that was earlier approved as Resolution No.
03-334.
Mr. Ike Akbari, 4424 Markwood Court, Nederland, and Ms. Toni Jackson of Coats Rose
Law Firm--Houston, his attorney, appeared before the City Council to request revisions to
Exhibit"B" of Resolution No. 03-334. Ms. Jackson detailed concerns with the language in
the exhibit regarding producing computations of surplus cash filed by Bent Tree/Park
Central with HUD from the date of inception.
City Attorney Sokolow recommended full disclosure of the property transfer and suggested
the City Council return to Executive Session.
IX. *CLOSED MEETING (EXECUTIVE SESSION)
(3)
Section 551.071 Government Code - To Discuss With The City
Attorney Pending Or Prospective Litigation With Hayes And
Affiliated Entities.
The City Council recessed their meeting at 5:04 p.m. to meet in Executive Session to
consider the above-mentioned topic, and reconvened their meeting at 5:17 p.m. with the
following members present: Mayor Ortiz; Mayor Pro Tem Gillam; Councilmembers Hannah,
Barker, Henderson, Beard, Chaisson and Sinegal; City Manager Fitzgibbons; City Secretary
Green and City Attorney Sokolow.
The motion and second to reconsider P. R. No. 12404--Approved as Resolution No. 03-
334, were withdrawn by Mayor Pro Tem Gillam and Councilmember Beard until the
attorneys can meet.
The Mayor requested that City Attorney Sokolow consult with Mr. Akbari's attorney, Ms.
Toni .lackson, and return with a recommendation to the City Council in two-weeks.
X. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS OR REQUESTED REPORTS
Mayor Ortiz
A report on the Brownfields Regional Forum.
Mayor Ortiz announced that, Ms. Camisha Scott, of the Dallas Environmental Protection
Agency's Brownfields Office will be visiting Port Arthur on November 12-13, 2003. She will
present a workshop on Thursday, November 13, 2003, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. at
the Port Arthur Bob Bowers Civic Center and that the Port Arthur Brownfields Committee
will meet on November 13, 2003 with Mrs. Scott from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m.
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 18
CouncJlmember Henderson
A report on the installation of a traffic signal at Ninth Avenue and Lake Arthur.
City Attorney Sokolow extended invitations to attend a ceremony at the Port Arthur
Municipal Court honoring the late Municipal Court Prosecutor, Mr. Stanley George, on
Friday, November 14, 2003, at 3:00 p.m.
XI. ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
Upon the motion of Mayor Pro Tern Gillam, seconded by Councilmember $inegal and
carried unanimously, the City Council adjourned their meeting at 5:23 p.m.
An audio tape of this meeting is on file in the office of the City Secretary and is made a
part of the official minutes of this meeting.
MAYOR OSCAR G. OR'F[Z
A~E~:
CITY SECRETARY EVANGELINE GREEN
END OF REGULAR MEETING HELD November 11, 2003. APPROVED:
November 11, 2003 - City Council Meeting Minutes 19