1997-12-22 Public Hearing and Regular Meeting of City Council

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e e City Council Meeting Minutes December 22, 1997 Page 2 Mr. Steve Valarius, 140 Hazel, La Porte, Texas addressed Council on the Sign Ordinance. Mr. Valarius advised Council the Old 146 Group was concerned about the proposed changes with regards to temporary signs. The committee does not support the proposed changes but does promote attracting new residents to La Porte. The Old 146 committee suggested if the City does allow temporary signs that the owner of the sign should place their name, address and telephone number on each sign. Mr. Joe Watkins, 111 Howald Ct. addressed Council concerning a right-of-way obstruction problem in Crescent Shores. Mr. Watkins advised this problem dates back to May 1997. 5. RECEIVE REPORT FROM EXXON REGARDING PIPELINE LEAK AT MYRTLE CREEK AND CANYON SPRINGS - R. Herrera Mr. Larry Harlen, Exxon Public Affairs Coordinator provided a detailed report of the events surrounding the pipeline leak at Myrtle Creek and Canyon Springs. Mr. Harlen informed Council that Exxon took this leak: very seriously although it was small in volume. He extended an apology from Exxon and stated they understand citizen concerns. Exxon was first contacted last Monday at 11 :45 AM by the Harris County Pollution Control indicating there were vapor indications of a hydro carbon nature coming from near the manhole cover close to the pipeline. Exxon responded immediately by terminating the product in the pipeline. This pipeline extends all the way to San Antonio. At this point the block valves were closed and that section of the line was isolated. In addition, they took the pressure off the line. All appropriate agencies were notified at this time. What was found at that point were traces of gasoline coming from the manhole cover next to that pipeline. The City of La Porte Fire Department became involved at this point and began their operations that deal with this type of problem. Mr. Harlen further reported that Exxon also detected traces in Big Island Slough. The General Land Office became involved with the operation as well. Exxon reported they got ahead of the product and prevented it from going further down the road. Leak repairs were completed by Wednesday morning and the pipe removed was sent to the lab for analysis as to why the leak occurred. Thursday consisted of clean up and Friday was largely spent on working with the agencies on site assessments and evaluations. Mr. Harlen advised there were no fatalities and citizens reported three (3) claims. There were a number of fish killed in the creek and some ducks did get in the gasoline. None of the ducks died from this event. Lastly, Mr. Harlen reported it is believed the leak: was caused by internal corrosion. Exxon is making every effort to determine the cause and will be implementing future preventative