2011-09-26 Regular Meeting of La Porte City Council minutes

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City of Pasadena Director of Public Works Robin Green spoke on behalf of the City of Pasadena. Mr. Green advised the City of Pasadena has funded the first phase of the project. Councilmember Mosteit asked that City Council be assured that the City of La Porte receives drainage benefits and proposed projects in the City of La Porte will not be delayed based on what the City of Pasadena does. City of Pasadena Director of Public Works Robin Green commented if La Porte City Council approved the project, an agreement would clearly state the City of Pasadena would make improvements to drainage. City Engineer Julian Garza advised City Council that drainage projects in La Porte will not be delayed and are moving forward. Mr. Garza also advised the projects were on the Harris County Flood Control District Improvement Plan, as well; and a meeting is planned with Harris County Flood Control District for an update on these projects. Councilmember Leonard questioned the purpose of control structures. Gary Struzik, with Klotz and Associates, informed there are two purposes of the control structures, for conveyance of storm water and to create a water feature. Councilmember Engelken expressed his concerns regarding downstream effects not being addressed, the fifty -seven homes destroyed in the Brookglen Subdivision, and the lack of assistance from Harris County Flood Control District. Councilmember Engelken also commented he was in favor of improving drainage but was opposed to the de- annexation. Mayor Rigby commented he would contact Mayor Isbell and inform him of Council's discussions and concerns. (c) Discussion or other action regarding group homes, (aka community homes, residential personal care homes, living centers and assisted living centers) — D. Wilmore Chief Building Official Debbie Wilmore presented a summary. City Council directed staff to send the issue of registration of group homes to the Planning and Zoning Commission. (d) Discussion or other action regarding a presentation by Marc Campos of Celanese Corporation on their project to convert natural gas into ethanol. — Mayor Rigby Marc Campos of Celanese Corporation provided a presentation on a project to convert natural gas into ethanol. Mayor Rigby will sign a letter of support. 11. STAFF REPORTS (a) Receive report from Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott regarding the delinquent tax collection process — K. Powell Attorney Jason Bailey with Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott provided d report on the delinquent tax collection process. Councilmember Zemanek questioned why properties with delinquent taxes since the 1980's are still on the delinquent tax list. Mr. Bailey informed those delinquent tax properties are either `upside down or underwater,' have deceased heirs, or are probate and /or bankrupt properties that are to be resolved by Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott. Page 6 of 7 September 26, 2011, City Council Meeting Minutes