HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution - 2004-R0104 - Resolution Adopting Legislative Priorities For The 108Th US Congress - 02_19_2004Resolution No. 2004-RO104
February 19, 2004
Item No. 68
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK
THAT the City Council of the City of Lubbock hereby adopts legislative
priorities for the 108' United States Congress for the purpose of defining the position
of the City of Lubbock. Said legislative priorities are attached hereto and incorporated
in this resolution as if fully set forth herein and shall be included in the minutes of the
City Council.
Passed by the City Council this 19th
ATTEST:
Rebe ca Garza
City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
r �
bob Goodwin
Corporate Communications Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
T"ohn Knight// G
Assistant City Attorney
as/CCDOCS/Fed Priority Resolution
February 11, 2004
day
Resolution No. 2004-RO104
CITY OF LUBBOCK
2004 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
CONTENTS
• City Council Resolution
• Omnibus Legislative Policy
• Federal Legislative Policy
• Contact Information
• Appropriation Requests
o Water Infrastructure
■ Water Reuse Projects
■ Regional water and wastewater treatment
o Transportation
■ Citibus
o SAFETEA Reauthorization Funding Request
■ Marsha Sharp Freeway
o Law Enforcement
• Monitoring Requests
o North and East Lubbock Development
o Lubbock International Airport
o Fire Department
o Ports -to -Plains Corridor
o Homeland Security
o Sales Tax Streamlining Project
o HUD CDBG HOME and Public Housing Formula Study
o Other Economic Development Projects
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LUBBOCK
THAT the Ci1 Council of the City of Lubbock hereby adopts legislative
priorities for the 108 United States Congress for the purpose of defining the
position of the City of Lubbock. Said legislative priorities are attached hereto and
incorporated in this resolution as if fully set forth herein and shall be included in
the minutes of the City Council.
Passed by the City Council this _ day of 2004.
MARC MCDOUGAL, MAYOR
ATTEST:
Rebecca Garza
City Secretary
APPROVED AS TO CONTENT:
Bob Goodwin
Corporate Communications Manager
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
John Knight
Assistant City Attorney
OMNIBUS LEGISLATIVE POLICY
Approved by Council, February , 2004
Resolution #
A governing policy to enable the Mayor to direct the City of Lubbock's legislative
activities, absent specific positions taken by the City Council.
A. The City of Lubbock will support legislation that:
1. Furthers the principles of Home Rule and local self -governance
2. Brings additional revenue to the City of Lubbock
3. Strengthens the ability of the City to act in the best interest of its
citizens' health, safety and welfare
B. The City of Lubbock will oppose all bills that seek to:
1. Counter the principles of Home Rule and local self -governance
2. Impose unfunded mandates to the City
3. Limit the authority of the City to generate revenue
4. Create a loss of revenue to cities or
5. Weaken the ability of cities to act in the best interest of their citizens'
health, safety and welfare
KI
CITY OF LUBBOCK
2004 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
Appropriation Requests
• Water Infrastructure
o Water Reuse Projects
o $550,000 for regional water infrastructure
• Transportation
o Transitional operating assistance authority for Citibus (200,000
population issue)
o $2.25 million for Low Floor Buses and Vans
• SAFETEA Reauthorization Funding Request
o $20 million for the Marsha Sharp Freeway
• Law Enforcement
o $1.5 million for law enforcement technology
Monitoring Requests
• Lubbock International Airport
• Fire Department Safer Act
• Ports -to -Plains Corridor Requests
• Homeland Security — Reese Technology Center
• Sales tax streamlining project
• HUD CDBG and HOME formula study and its potential impact on Lubbock
• Public housing funding formulas
• Opportunities to fund local economic development projects
Policy Positions
Support
• Local medical providers' requests in Medicare and Medicaid funding formulas
• Advances the principles of Home Rule and local self -governance
• Brings additional revenue to the City of Lubbock
• Strengthens the ability of the City to act in the best interest of its citizens' health,
safety and welfare
Oppose
• Mandatory collective bargaining
• Counter the principles of Home Rule and local self -governance
• Impose unfunded mandates to the City
• Limit the authority of the City to generate revenue
• Create a loss of revenue to cities or weakens the ability of cities to act in the best
interest of their citizens' health, safety and welfare
0
CONTACTS
For further information, please contact:
Mayor Marc McDougal
City of Lubbock
PO Box 2000
Lubbock TX 79457
Phone: 806-775-2010
Fax: 806-775-3335
mmcdougalCcb-mail.ci.lubbock.tx.us
Bob Goodwin
Corporate Communications Manager
City of Lubbock
PO Box 2000
Lubbock TX 79457
Phone: 806-775-2006
Fax: 806-775-3335
bgoodwin(a)mail.ci.lubbock.tx.us
5
Appropriation Requests
• Water Infrastructure
o Water Reuse Projects
o $550,000 for regional water infrastructure
• Transportation
o Transitional operating assistance authority for Citibus (200,000
population issue)
o $2.25 million for Low Floor Buses and Vans
• SAFETEA Reauthorization Funding Request
o $20 million for the Marsha Sharp Freeway
• Law Enforcement
o $1.5 million for law enforcement technology
on
Water Infrastructure
• Water Reuse Project to provide drinking water for Lubbock or West
Texas residents
The City of Lubbock is committed to water conservation and water reuse.
Lubbock is located in an arid region, and we recognize that water is an important
resource that must be preserved. With this in mind, Lubbock is considering two
separate water reuse projects to assist us in our conservation effort.
The City of Lubbock's Southeast Water Reclamation Plant treats between 19 and
21 million gallons of effluent each day, and a significant portion of this effluent is
applied at the Lubbock Land Application Site and the Hancock Land Application
Site. The remainder of the City's effluent is discharged into the Brazos River and
some is used for cooling purposes at the Jones Station power plant. Because a
groundwater mound was created due to the larger amount of effluent applied to
the Lubbock Land Application Site, which was required to be remediated and
reduced by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, approximately 1.2
million gallons of water is transported from beneath the Lubbock Land
Application Site and discharged into Lubbock's Canyon Lakes Project, a series of
6 lakes that flow through the city of Lubbock.
• Canyon Lakes Water Reuse Project
Under this proposal, infrastructure will be put in place to create additional
lakes and retention capacity within the Canyon Lakes System as well as
additional pipeline transport infrastructure. This increased capacity would
allow additional treated effluent and other developed water to be
transported back into the Canyon Lakes System. Water that travels
through the Canyon Lakes System receives additional natural biological
treatment, is reusable, and with some additional treatment is of drinking
water quality. This project would provide approximately one-fourth to one-
third of Lubbock's water supply requirements, thereby reducing reliance
on nonrenewable groundwater resources and on water supplied by the
Canadian River Municipal Water Authority.
• Lake Alan Henry Recharge Project
Under this proposal, pipeline infrastructure could be put in place to direct
effluent from the Hancock Land Application Site to Lake Alan Henry, the
City of Lubbock owned reservoir in Justiceburg, southeast of Lubbock.
The recharging process will increase the amount of water in Lake Alan
Henry, which can subsequently be sold under a water sales contract to
municipalities south of Lake Alan Henry for their water supply.
7
• $550,000 to the City of Lubbock to meet regional water and wastewater
needs
The City of Lubbock is involved in numerous regional water projects to:
Provide adequate water supplies through the Canadian River Municipal
Water Authority, a regional water supply entity serving 11 member cities
(Lubbock, Amarillo, Pampa, Borger, Plainview, Slaton, Tahoka, O'Donnell,
Lamesa, Levelland and Brownfield). Member cities in turn serve the cities
of New Deal, Ransom Canyon, Buffalo Springs Lake, Wollforth,
Shallowater, Post (under construction), Canyon and Seth Ward.
• Develop alternate sources of long-term water supplies for the region as
the current sustainability of existing supplies is uncertain
• Creation of a vehicle to allow rural and small town residents in Kent and
Garza Counties to utilize Lake Alan Henry as an interim water supply.
• Meet regional demands and need for water. The City has been
approached by several neighboring cities that are running out of water
supplies and/or having problems meeting wastewater needs.
• Ensure adequate infrastructure, supply, and treatment and disposal
methods in the region, allowing water to remain within the water basin for
reuse.
• Cooperate with Water Districts in the region in planning for regional water
projects and long-term resources.
To assist with these water projects and issues, the City of Lubbock is
considering pursuing a water reclamation project with federal assistance.
(Draft legislation for this purpose follows.)
In addition, the City has requested $550,000 from the EPA Environmental
Management Program to assist with a study on how to address regional water
and wastewater needs. Former Representative Combest sent a letter of
request for these funds to Representative James Walsh (R-NY), the
Chairman of the Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development and
Independent Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee. This request was also
submitted to Senators Hutchison and Cornyn.
The City of Lubbock Water Advisory Commission is currently working to develop
a Water Resources Plan for the City. Through this process, further key projects
to ensure adequate water supplies for the regions may be identified. Funding for
specific projects may be requested as a result of this process.
108th CONGRESS
1 st Session
H. R.
To amend the Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study and Facilities
Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to participate in the design, planning,
and construction of a project to reclaim and reuse wastewater within and outside
of the service area of the City of Lubbock Water Utility, Texas.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
January 16, 2004
Mr. introduced the following bill; which was referred to the
Committee on Resources.
A BILL
To amend the Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study and Facilities
Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to participate in the design, planning,
and construction of a project to reclaim and reuse wastewater within and outside
of the service area of the City of Lubbock Water and Wastewater Utility, Texas.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United
States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. AUTHORIZATION OF LUBBOCK, TEXAS, WASTEWATER
RECLAMATION AND REUSE PROJECT.
(a) AUTHORIZATION OF PROJECT- The Reclamation Wastewater and
Groundwater Study and Facilities Act (Public Law 102-575, title XVI; 43
U.S.C. 390h et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
'SEC. 1636. LUBBOCK, TEXAS, WATER RECLAMATION AND REUSE
PROJECT.
(a) AUTHORIZATION- The Secretary, in cooperation with the City of
Lubbock Water Utility, Texas, is authorized to participate in the planning
(including an appraisal and feasibility study), design, and construction of,
and land acquisition for, a project to reclaim and reuse wastewater,
9
including degraded groundwaters, within and outside of the service area of
the City of Lubbock Water Utility, Texas.
(b) COST SHARE- The Federal share of the cost of the project authorized
by this section shall not exceed 25 percent of the total cost of the project.
(c) LIMITATION- The Secretary shall not provide funds for the operation
and maintenance of the project authorized by this section.'
(d) CLERICAL AMENDMENT- The table of contents in section 2 of Public
Law 102-575 (106 Stat. 4600) is amended by adding at the end of the
items relating to chapter XVI the following:
'Sec. 1636. Lubbock, Texas, Water Reclamation and Reuse
Project.'
10
Transportation
Citibus 200,000 Population Funding Issue
Background: Current law provides transit authorities in urbanized areas (UZAs)
with fewer than 200,000 people the flexibility to use federal funds made available
under the Section 5307 formula grant program for either capital or operating
expenses. Many transit agencies in this category use a significant portion of
federal formula funds for operating expenses. With the recent completion of the
2000 Census, Lubbock was among a number of transit agencies serving UZAs
that transitioned from "fewer than 200,000" to "more than 200,000" people.
Absent a change in current law, this transition will eliminate the flexibility that
allows these transit agencies to use formula funds as needed. If flexibility is not
granted, Citibus will have to turn to scarce local resources or reduce service to
make up for operating shortfalls. Citibus has been granted an extension for
funding through FY 2004, but will be looking for ways to retain the same level of
funding starting in FY 2005.
Proposed Legislative Options
1. Operating Assistance for Urbanized Areas with Less Than 100 Peak
Hour Buses.
A new provision could be added to 49 USC 5307 permitting the definition of small
UZAs eligible for flexibility (operating) to be defined as urbanized areas that
operate less than 100 buses during peak hour fixed route service. Citibus would
support such a change in the bill's language. H.R. 3550, the Transportation
Equity Act: a Legacy for Users (TEALU) was introduced in the U.S. House of
Representatives in November 2003. Section 3008 of the Bill includes
modification of Section 5307 (b) (2) of the Transportation Act to allow continued
flexibility in the use of Section 5307 funds for fiscal years 2004 and 2005 for
those systems that went from less than 200,000 in urbanized area population to
greater than 200,000 in the 2000 Census.
2. Transitional Authority for Urbanized Areas Above 200,000 Population
Add new provision to 49 USC 5307 that permits urbanized areas that grew from
less than 200,000 people to more than 200,000 people or were added to
urbanized areas of more than 200,000 people to use an amount of federal transit
funds equal to the amount they were allowed to use for operating purposes in FY
2002 for operating purposes through FY 2009.
11
Summary
The peak bus threshold addresses the long standing inequity of small systems
that are located in large urbanized areas. At the same time, it provides additional
protection for those breaking through the 200,000 threshold for the foreseeable
future as most operate less than 100 peak buses in fixed route service.
However, increasing the population cap to 360,000 has met some resistance on
Capitol Hill; therefore, we are willing to drop that provision and use the 100 peak
fixed route buses as the definition of small Urbanized Areas eligible for flexibility
(operating).
Citibus - $2.25 million for Low Floor Buses and Vans
The City of Lubbock received in $1.49 million for low floor alternative fuel buses
for use in FY 2004. We respectfully request $2.25 million in FY 2005 for three
low floor alternative fuel buses and ten low floor alternative fuel vans. The buses
will assist with the expansion of service to the Texas Tech Campus. The vans
will assist the federal and state initiative to coordinate transportation of all health
and human services.
12
SAFETEA Reauthorization Funding Request
• $20 million for the final segment of the Marsha Sharp Freeway (US
82162)
The Marsha Sharp Freeway has the support the Lubbock Metropolitan Planning
Organization and the Texas Department of Transportation. The project's
submission form follows.
Federal funding in the amount of $20 million will ensure that the final segment of
the Marsha Sharp Freeway is completed on schedule. The Texas Department of
Transportation (TxDOT) is scheduled to fund this project. However, this funding
is not guaranteed and the project could be delayed because of funding
constraints. This portion of the project will complete the Marsha Sharp Freeway
between Chicago and Salem Avenues.
When complete, the Marsha Sharp Freeway (named after the successful coach
of the Texas Tech University women's basketball team) will provide a limited -
access highway between Loop 289 in southwest Lubbock and 1-27 near
downtown Lubbock. This major cross-town route serves many important trip
generators that are the heart of Lubbock's economy and provide important health
and education services to the entire South Plains Region, including:
o Texas Tech University,
o Lubbock Christian University,
o Lubbock General Hospital,
o Texas Tech Health Sciences Center,
o Jones Stadium and
o United Spirit Arena.
In addition, the route provides the primary connection between the Reese
Technology Center, Texas Tech University, regional medical facilities and
downtown Lubbock.
This project will improve safety, mobility and air quality in Lubbock and includes
facilities to minimize impact on pedestrian and bicyclists.
If necessary, the project could be undertaken in two phases.
13
[Marsha Sharp Freeway (US 82/62)]
TRANSPORTATION PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA
COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
SUBCOMMITTEE ON HIGHWAYS AND TRANSIT
REMEMBER TO MAKE SURE YOU HAVE FILLED OUT THE ENTIRE
QUESTIONNAIRE.
1. Name and Congressional District of the primary Member of Congress
sponsoring the project.
Representative Randy Neugebauer, Texas 19'h
2. Other Members supporting the project.
NA
3. If the project is a highway project, identify the State or other qualified recipient
responsible for carrying out the project.
Texas Department of Transportation
4. If the project is a transit project, please identify the project sponsor (must be
an eligible recipient of Federal transit funds).
NA
5. Please categorize the project. (Check one)
Highway or Bridge X Intermodal facility (passenger)
Transit rail new start Intermodal facility (freight)_
Bus, bus equipment, or bus facility Bicycle and Pedestrian
Other (please identify)
6. Is the project eligible for the use of Federal -aid highway or transit funds under
Title 23 or Title 49 of the United States Code?
Yes
7. If the project is a highway or bridge project, is it on the National Highway
System?
Yes
8. Briefly describe the total project.
Complete the Marsha Sharp Freewav (US 82162) between Chicaao and
Salem Avenues
a. Is it part of a larger system of projects?
The project will be the 3Id of 4 projects for the Marsha Sharp
Freeway and will connect phase 1 and 2.
b. What is the total estimated cost of the project?
$257 million for the completion of Phase 1, 2, 3; Phase 3
estimated cost is $53 million
9. Please identify the specific segment for which project funding is being sought,
including terminus points.
Marsha Sharp Freeway (US 82/62) from Chicago Avenue to Salem
Avenue in Lubbock, Texas
10. What dollar amount are you requesting in the authorization for this project or
segment of a project?
$20 million ($13 million for the connecting ramps for Marsha Sharp and
Loop 289/$7 million to build the main lanes in the 3Id phase)
11. Project Schedule
a. What is the proposed schedule and status of work on the project?
Tentative construction scheduled for January 2007; ROW acquisition
98% complete; no problems anticipated for the final 2% acquisition
b. What is the current stage of development of the project? (if the
project is a transit new start, please specify whether the project is in
alternative analysis, preliminary engineering, final design, has been
issued a record of decision, under environmental review, or already
has a current full funding grant agreement).
Preliminary planning and engineering are underway and are about 75%
complete
c. Will the requested funding for the project be obligated within the
next six years?
Yes
12. Project Plan
a. Is the project part of the State's long-range plan?
Yes
b. Is the project included in the metropolitan and/or State
Transportation Improvement Program (s)?
Yes
13. Is the project considered by the State and/or regional transportation officials
as critical to their needs? Please provide a letter of support from these
officials, and if you cannot, explain why not.
Yes, letters to follow
15
14. Does the project have national or regional significance? Describe.
The project will provide regional access to the central business district,
Texas Tech University and regional medical facilities of Lubbock.
15. Has the proposed project encountered, or is it likely to encounter, any
significant opposition or other obstacles based on environmental or other
types of concerns? if yes, describe.
No
16. Describe the economic, environmental, congestion mitigation, and safety
benefits associated with completion of the project.
The project will improve safety and mobility on a major cross-town
route that connects many major traffic generators.
17. Has the project already received funding through the State's federal aid
highway or transit formula apportionments or from other Federal, State, local,
or private funds? If yes, how much and from what source?
Yes, NHS, High Priority, Corridors and discretionary funds will be used
as well as State funds. The MPO has also committed funds.
18. Has the project received funding in a previous authorization act?
Yes
19. If the project has received funding in a previous authorization act, please cite
the act(s) and amount(s) authorized.
Phase 2 of the project received $20 million in TEA-21.
20. Has the project received funding in a previous appropriations act?
No
21. If the project has received funding in a previous appropriations act, please
cite the act(s) and amount(s) appropriated.
NA
M
Law Enforcement Technology Grant
• $1.5 million to the City of Lubbock for law enforcement technology
In 2003, Lubbock received $496,750 from the FY 2003 Omnibus
Appropriations Act. Additional funding in FY 2005 will complete the funding of
this project and will improve law enforcement technology, allowing for better
communications between law enforcement officials in the region.
This project is an upgrade of fire and police dispatch and police records
management. The upgrade includes changing to a Windows based system
and includes mapping (required for wireless 911), laptops and other
communications and record keeping technology. This project will improve
dispatching and records management, allow the Lubbock Police Department
to better communicate and share information with their state and federal
counterparts, and improve the performance and safety of officers on patrol by
allowing them to access and file reports. The vehicle locator system will also
allow dispatchers to better deploy patrol units when responding to crimes and
emergencies.
17
MONITORING REQUESTS
• North and East Lubbock Development
• Lubbock International Airport
• Fire Department Safer Act
• Ports -to -Plains Corridor Requests
• Homeland Security — Reese Technology
Center
• Sales tax streamlining project
• HUD CDBG HOME and Public Housing
Formula Study
• Opportunities to fund local economic
development projects
North and East Lubbock Development
Corporation
Growth and prosperity remain important objectives for Lubbock. But, fostering
balanced growth with reinvestment and redevelopment throughout our city
ensures the vitality of older businesses and allows all residents to live in healthy,
secure neighborhoods. In 2002, the City Council appointed the North and East
Lubbock Development Commission to study the problems and potential of this
area of our city. Ultimately, the Commission identified several recommended
courses of action. In response to the Commissions recommendations, the City
Council established a funding source, hired a consulting firm to put together a
Master Plan and Marketing Plan, and most recently hired John Hall as the
Community Development Corporation's Executive Director.
The work that has been initiated in Lubbock will be similar to the successful
SouthFair Community Development Corporation in South Dallas. This project will
be unique in the revitalization of large tracts of land, providing for large and
diverse opportunities for housing and economic development.
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Lubbock International Airport
Background
Lubbock International Airport (LIA) is critical to West Texas because of its remote
location. Lubbock International Airport is the strongest airport in the West Texas
region. LIA has four airlines, offering 29 Flights a day to 7 cities. Though LIA has
a great deal to offer, like other airports, it has been affected by September 11
and a recession resulting in fewer people flying, less airport revenues, and some
increased costs.
The Financial Impact of the Transportation Security Administration
After September 11, there was a pressing need to increase security at our
nation's airports. However, these additional security costs are more difficult for
smaller airports to absorb. Most smaller airports struggle to break even or are
subsidized by their municipal government. Keeping costs low in order to attract
air service to their communities is paramount. Any Transportation Security
Administration mandates affecting smaller airports should include adequate
funding support. Without adequate funding, small airports' only alternatives are
to increase their fees to airlines and risk loss of air service, or be subsidized by
municipalities with scarce resources and fiscally tight budgets.
Your assistance in monitoring the Transportation Security Administration
mandates is needed. The TSA was a quick, response to the terrorist attacks of
September 11. Perhaps now is an appropriate time to re-evaluate this
organization.
The Lancer MOA
This Lancer MOA issue is specific to Lubbock International Airport. When Reese
Air Force Base closed in 1996, the Air Force retained established training areas
around Lubbock and redistributed these areas to other bases. Lubbock has
constantly worked with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Air Force to
ensure that these training areas do not interfere with the civilian traffic flying in
and out of Lubbock International Airport. Ensuring these commercial flight
patterns has been a complex and difficult process. In the past, all affected parties
were able to reach a compromise that met everyone's needs.
The establishment of the Lancer MOA Southeast of Lubbock was the most
recent compromise. After two years of intense negotiations, both civilian and
military agreed to use the airspace simultaneously. Implementation of the
compromise requires the installation of a radar site and radio equipment and the
establishment of new procedures at the Tracon in Lubbock and at the Fort Worth
center. While the process is moving forward there have been rumors recently
20
that factions within the FAA have softened their resolve to uphold their
commitment to the City of Lubbock. Lubbock supports our military, and this
compromise allows air crews to train and defend our country, but it must be in a
manner that also allows the West Texas economy to enjoy the benefits of a fully
accessible airport. Your assistance in monitoring the process and ensuring that
all parties remain committed to this agreement would be appreciated.
Airport Improvement Program Funding
Another very important issue for all airports is the Airport Improvement Program
(AIP). As you are aware, AIP funding is vital to airports across the country that
depend on these monies for capitol improvement projects. Your assistance in
monitoring AIP legislation to ensure its passage as well as helping to ensure that
any separate aviation issues are handled in a manner that avoids delaying AIP's
passage is important to LIA.
The Interport Trade Center at LIA has more than 1,000 acres available for
development, providing a business -friendly location with exceptional
transportation infrastructure that includes access to air, rail and highway
systems. Through an agreement with the Port of Corpus Christi, the Interport
offers the advantages of a Foreign Trade Zone. The area has also been
designated a Texas Enterprise Zone. With cooperation from Market Lubbock,
Inc., the Interport offers research support and job creation incentive grants to
new and expanding businesses located in the Interport area.
The Interport is an important asset to the City of Lubbock and has the potential to
spur economic development and maximize the use of LTA's impressive
infrastructure assets. Lubbock International Airport (LIA) recently added a
railroad spur and corporate tenants to the Interport project. In the future, LIA may
request federal funding for multimodal transportation projects related to these
expansions.
21
Fire Department SAFER Act
The Lubbock Fire Department has requested that the SAFER Act be monitored
in 2004. The Act calls for a sliding scale in which federal funds would pay 90% of
the first year salaries of newly hired Firefighters. This amount would be reduced
to 50% by the third year, and municipalities would assume responsibility over the
full amount of the salaries by the fifth year.
Lubbock is currently adding additional Firefighters to each Fire Station in order to
comply with a State law, commonly called the "two in two out rule". Under this
law, two Firefighters must be present at the scene before two separate
Firefighters can legally enter a burning structure. Lubbock City Council has
approved a five-year plan to comply with "two in two out" whereby 48 Firefighters
will be hired -- adding 9 each year for the first four years and hiring 12
Firefighters the final year.
Dependant upon the extent of compliance rules attached to the SAFER Act, the
Lubbock Fire Department is extremely interested its monitoring as a possible
means to offset some of the hiring costs associated with the five-year plan.
22
Ports -to -Plains International Trade Corridor
The Ports -to -Plains International Trade Corridor is a planned four -lane divided
highway that will facilitate the efficient and effective transportation of goods and
people from Mexico and border cities through the heart of America to Denver and
ultimately to Canada. Lubbock is located on the Ports to Plains Corridor. Our city
was extremely active in starting the Ports to Plains initiative and is also an active
participant in the Ports to Plains Coalition's activities. The City of Lubbock
supports efforts to initiate construction along the Ports -to -Plains Corridor.
The Ports -to -Plains Corridor was designated a High Priority Corridor on the
National Highway System by TEA-21 (PL 105-178). In October 2002, President
Bush signed legislation (PL 107-259) completing the route designation of the
Ports -to -Plains Corridor.
The following are the 2004 priorities of the Ports -to -Plains Coalition:
Construction
• Funding for truck reliever routes along the Corridor
• Construction and widening of segments along the Corridor from two to four
lanes
Federal Facilities
• Interior Inspection Facilities that can improve homeland security and border
inspection efficiency by inspecting trucks at inland facilities using intelligent
transportation data systems (ITDS)
• Training Facilities in Corridor communities for border and homeland security
personnel
Intelligent Transportation Systems
• Design and installation of broadband infrastructure, creating an innovative
"technology superhighway" along the Corridor. This system will promote
economic development (international trade, rural healthcare, education,
commerce) and increase the security and efficiency of international trade by
allowing communities and government agencies along the Corridor to take
advantage of broadband technology.
• Intelligent Transportation Data Systems (ITDS) to increase the efficiency of
border operations and address congestion in border cities.
23
x
Transportation Project Evaluation Criteria,
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
Subcommittee on Highways and Transit
1. Name and Congressional District of the primary Member of Congress sponsoring the
project.
Representative Randy Neugebauer. Texas Congressional District 19.
2. Other Members supporting the project.
INOI&4
3. If the project is a highway project, identify the State or other qualified recipient
responsible for carrying out the project.
Texas Department of Transportation
4. If the project is a transit project, please identify the project sponsor (must be an eligible
recipient of Federal transit funds).
N/A
5. Please categorize the project. (Check one)
Highway or bridge X
Transit rail new start
Bus, bus equipment, or bus facility
Intermodal facility (passenger)
Intermodal facility (freight)
Bicycle and Pedestrian
Other (please identify)
6. Is the project eligible for the use of Federal -aid highway or transit funds under Title 23 or
Title 49 of the United States Code?
YES
7. If the project is a highway or bridge project, is it on the National Highway System?
YES
8. Briefly describe the total project.
Improvements to National High Priority Corridor #38
a. Is it part of a larger system of projects?
YES —National Highway System, the Texas Trunk System and National High
Priority Corridor #38
b. What is the total estimated cost of the project?
$309,500,000
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9. Please identify the specific segment for which project funding is being sought, including
terminus points.
Improvements to National High Priority Corridor #38 from Patricia south through
Midland to the western Glasscock County Line.
4-lane SH 349
From Patricia (Dawson CO)
Reconstruct, add 2 lanes
$111,000,000
to Midland County Line
Reliever Route at
From SH 349 at the Martin/Midland
Reliever Route
$26,000,000
Midland
County Line to SH 191
4-lane SH 158
From Midland east to Glasscock County
Reconstruct, add 2 lanes
$66,000,000
Line
4-lane FM 1788
From SH 191 south to IH 20
Reconstruct, add 2 lanes
$57,000,000
US 287
From US 87 south of Big Spring to US
Reliever Route
$49,500,000
87 north
10. What dollar amount are you requesting in the authorization for this project or segment of
a project?
$150,000,000
11. Project Schedule
a. What is the proposed schedule and status of work on the project?
The overall project schedule is for completion within the next 6 years.
b. What is the current stage of development of the project? (If the project is a transit
new start, please specify whether the project is in alternative analysis,
preliminary engineering, final design, has been issued a record of decision, under
environmental review, or already has a current full funding grant agreement.)
The project is in the preliminary engineering stage of development.
c. Will the requested funding for the project be obligated within the next six years?
12. Project Plan
a. Is the project part of the State's long-range plan?
YES
b. Is the project included in the metropolitan and/or State Transportation
Improvement Program(s)?
YES, the STIP
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13. Is the project considered by the State and/or regional transportation officials as critical to
their needs? Please provide a letter of support from these officials, and if you cannot,
explain why not.
YES; copies of support letters are attached
14. Does the project have national or regional significance? Describe.
YES; the project represents a significant portion of NHP Corridor #38 and the Texas
Trunk System. It is on the National Highway System, and significantly contributes to
the economic development of the West Texas region.
15. Has the proposed project encountered, or is it likely to encounter, any significant
opposition or other obstacles based on environmental or other types of concerns? If yes,
please describe.
NO
16. Describe the economic, environmental, congestion mitigation, and safety benefits
associated with completion of the project.
The economic and safety benefits to the West Texas will be significant. The
environmental and congestion mitigation benefits for the entire region will be just as
significant. The economic impact both direct and indirect on the West Texas region
will be realized from job growth created by the development of NHP Corridor #38.
Improved safety of the Corridor will result directly from the improvements as they are
completed. Environmental benefits and congestion mitigation for West Texas and the
surrounding region will result from the alternative route NHP Corridor #38 will provide
for traffic that currently uses other more congested routes.
17. Has the project already received funding through the State's federal -aid highway or
transit formula apportionments or from other Federal, State, local, or private funds? If
yes, how much and from what source?
NO
18. Has the project received funding in a previous authorization act?
NO
19. If the project has received funding in a previous authorization act, please cite the act(s)
and amount(s) authorized.
NO
20. Has the project received funding in a previous appropriations act?
NO
21. If the project has received funding in a previous appropriations act, please cite the act(s)
and amount(s) appropriated.
NIA
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Homeland Security
The City of Lubbock respectfully recommends pursuing the use of Reese
Technology Center for homeland security purposes as a long term project. The
City of Lubbock proposes a combination of federal, state, and local agencies
create a Crisis Response Center (CRC) with national and regional
responsibilities in Homeland Security. The CRC components may include the
following:
• Response to terrorist or natural events with rapidly deployable resources
• Training facilities for medical responders and other key personnel
• Research to develop detection, treatment and protection, and surveillance
and response protocols.
The City of Lubbock, Reese Technology Center, Texas Tech University, Texas
Tech University Health Science Center, Texas Tech Institute of Environmental
and Human Health, South Plains College, and the Breedlove Dehydrated Foods
operation are some of the local resources available for this project.
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Sales Tax Streamlining Project
The Streamlined Sales Tax Project is an effort to achieve uniformity in the
administration and collection of sales taxes. Texas is one of 40 member states in
this project. The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 2425, putting Texas on the
path to full compliance with the streamlined sales tax procedures.
However, the Texas Legislature enacted some technical changes in State law
that divides sales taxes into two categories — taxes on products and taxes on
goods. This was a compromise that says the ultimate recipient of sales tax on
services is the city or county where the services is performed, as called for in the
agreement. But, the sales tax on products goes to the city or county where the
sale took place.
The Sales Tax Streamlining Project may ultimately ask Congress to establish
similar requirements. As Lubbock is a retail hub for West Texas and has service
and manufacturing operations within our city, we are interested in monitoring
federal involvement in the Sales Tax Streamlining Project.
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HUD CDBG HOME and Public Housing
formula study and its potential impact on
Lubbock
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has completed a formula study for both
the Community Development Block Grant and HOME programs. This study
analyzed the current formulas and 2000 Census data to determine if the current
dollars are being directed towards the areas with the largest need. In this case
need was defined as "poverty". The study resulted in 4 possible changes to the
formulas: (1) Revert to a single formula rather than the 2 formulas used by CDBG
now (2) Modify current formulas (3) Address median income (4) Eliminate pre-
1940 housing as a factor in the CDBG formula.
HUD has not made a recommendation, but plans to do so in 2004 -- probably
before the President submits his budget to Congress. The possible impacts may
be that the formula changes would make CDBG and HOME more of an anti-
poverty program rather than an urban renewal program. Historically, Lubbock
uses its allocation primarily for anti -poverty strategies. Changing the formula
could impact our funding in either a positive or negative direction depending on
the overall policy direction.
The City of Lubbock is currently monitoring the proposed changes in these
formulas to determine how they will impact our allocation.
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Resolution No. 2004-R0104
Other Economic Development Projects
The City of Lubbock is in the midst of establishing economic development
projects and initiatives to supplement growth within the community and the West
Texas area. The region is receiving increased national attention for its
participation and success in Big XII athletics, the Ports -to -Plains Trade Corridor,
and biotechnological and agricultural research.
To enhance the economic changes, funding of local cultural projects and
redevelopment of underutilized areas is an important priority for the City. The
Silent Wings Museum, Buddy Holly Center, the Mackenzie Park Amphitheater
and American Wind Power Center offer cultural opportunities to visitors and
locals as well as growing economic activity. The proposed Military Small Arms
Museum and Hispanic Heritage Center will continue to increase economic
development and diversity within the region. Redevelopment of older parts of the
City such as North University and North and East Lubbock also provide more
area and incentives for economic growth.
Information regarding each of these specific projects will be provided as needed.
Currently, the City of Lubbock is not requesting any specific amount of funds for
operating expenses of these projects. However, as the community and projects
grow, there will be a need for capital funds to accommodate expansion.
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