HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-04-18 Transcription Page 1
Council Present: Alter,Bergus,Dunn,Harmsen, Taylor, Teague, Thomas
Staff Present: From,Jones,Kilburg, Goers, Fruehling,Platz, Seydell Johnson,Knoche,
Havel, Sovers,Liston,Nagle-Gamm
Others Present: Zeimet,USG Liaison,LeFevre,Alternate Liaison
1. Call to Order
Teague: It is now 6:00 PM on April 18th, 2023. And I'm going to call the City of Iowa City
formal meeting to order. Roll-call,please. (Roll Call) All right. I want to welcome
everyone in person in those online joining us virtually. Before we get started, I just
wanted to acknowledge two things that's happening,um,here, ah, in our community. Ah,
one is,um,many of you may have heard that a 20-year-old, ah,has gone missing, ah,
Christian Martinez, and just wanted to take a moment to,um, send some great thoughts,
um, for his, ah,recovery. Um,he went missing on Saturday night, ah,April 15th. And so
there was a vidil for him at 5:00 PM and sending some thoughts, ah,to he and his family
at this time. Also wanted to acknowledge the conflict over in Sudan. We know that we
have many individuals that live in our community that have loved ones over there. Some
are visiting there themselves and just wanted to also let them know that our thoughts are
with them during this time. I wanted to just maybe take a moment of silence,um,to just
send out some positive thoughts, ah, during these times of conflict.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City City Council regular
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2. Proclamation
2.a Arab American Heritage Month
Teague: Thank you. We're going to move on to proclamations, Item Number 2. 2.a is Arab
American Heritage Month. And this is going to be read by Councilor Andrew Dunn.
Dunn: (Reads proclamation)Accepting this proclamation is Bakhit Bakhit from the Sudanese
American Community, ah, for Services and, ah,Newman Abuissa for ZOA for Arab
American Associations.
Teague: And we invite you both to come up and speak as well. Yeah.
Bakhit: Thank you,your Honor. Thank you, City Council. We appreciate this recognition. It's,
ah-thank you very much. It's heart-warming to see a community all coming,ah,Arab
Americans where we have, ah,Americans displayed in- in negative ways elsewhere, ah,
in- in this society- society. Ah, I thank you on behalf of the Arab American Institute. And
I thank you for the moment of silence for the suffering taking place today and in the last
few days in Sudan. And I just want to let everybody know that we are proud that Iowa is
the home of the mother mosque,the 100 plus year old mosque in Cedar Rapids, and
welcoming also to the Christian communities have one of the, ah, oldest Orthodox
Christian- Orthodox Christian churches in Cedar Rapids as well.
Teague: Thank you.
Abuissa: Thank you. Mayor, ah, City Council. Ah, I wish I can say more good words to you,but
I don't think I can when my country,people are dying, suffering. And it's a country on the
brink of civil war. And I think, ah,what you did for us here in Iowa, I hope it extends to
our home country. And I think every voice can make a difference to pressure the warring
general to stop the killing,to stop the k-the war, to stop the suffering. Thank you again.
Teague: Thank you both.
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2.b Arbor Day
Teague: Proclamation 2.b is Arbor Day, and this will be read by Councilor Harmsen.
Harmsen: Thank you,Mayor. (Reads proclamation). And accepting the award today, I believe is
Juli Seydell Johnson?Yes.
Seydell-Johnson: Thank you,Mayor and Council. I'd love to get up here and talk about the
positive effects of trees and thank you for all of your support in making it happen. But I
want to share the love about some of the thanks this time. We've recently received a grant
from MidAmerican Energy which we've received several years in a row for tree
replanting,but we got a grant from them and from our Iowa Department of Natural
Resources as a reforestation grant. Then the biggest kudos go to two groups.First of all,
to the Noon Rotary of Iowa City. They have shown up at least three, if not more years in
a row and done just amazing plantings for us in different areas. When I say show up,they
show up with shovels and mulchers and wheelbarrows and actually get active and plant
all these trees along with their staff. So it is so very much a- appreciated. And then
finally,the homeowners. Obviously we're planting on trees in the public grounds. Tree
City USA and our growth awards become possible because actu-homeowners and
businesses are also planting trees around us. So with big thanks to everyone and your
continued support to do that. Thanks.
Teague: Thank you.
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2.c Housing Trust Fund Week
Teague: Proclamation 2.c is Housing Trust Fund Week. And this will be read by Mayor Pro Tem
Alter.
Alter: (Reads proclamation)And accepting on behalf of the Housing Trust Fund is Simon
Andrew.
Andrew: Thank you so much,Mayor and Council,we really appreciate you doing this
proclamation. Again, I'm Simon Andrew. I'm a board member of the Housing Trust Fund
to Johnson County. In the past year,the trust fund has allocated $1.8 million for
affordable housing projects in Johnson County. The lion's share of those are within the
City of Iowa City due to the Cities generous funding of the-the trust fund and that
leverage $15 million and outside funding for those projects. And again, all but one of
those was within the City of Iowa City. There isn't a City Council in the state that does as
much for- for affordable housing as you all, and we very much appreciate it. So thank
you.
Teague: Thank you.
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2.d Sharon Malheiro Day
Teague: Proclamation to 2.d is Sharon Malheiro Day. (Reads proclamation). And receiving this
proclamation via Zoom is Courtney Reyes,who is the Executive Director of One Iowa
and we're going to welcome Courtney at this time.
Reyes: Hey everyone. My name is Courtney Reyes and I am the Executive Director of One
Iowa. My pronouns are she,her and hers. I am- I'm so honored to be here virtually with
you today to accept this award of one of the greatest folks that I've ever had a chance to
meet with and have conversations with. And I can assure you that up until Sharon's death
just two weeks ago, she was plotting with me on the phone of how we can stop the harm
at the Iowa Legislature. So this was in her blood and she has driven us to continue on in
this fight and to really show up for LGBTQ Iowans, specifically trans Iowans because
they need us now more than ever. So thank you for this,What a great pleasure. I'll be sure
to share this with all of her family members. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you.
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3.—7. Consider Adoption of the Consent Calendar as Presented or Amended
Teague: We're going to move on to item number 3 through 7,which is our consent agenda. Can I
get a motion,please,to approve the consent agenda?
Taylor: So moved, Taylor.
Dunn: Second Dunn.
Teague: Would anyone from the public like to discuss anything that is on our consent agenda,
which are items 3 through 7. If so,please come forth. If you are online,please raise your
hand and I see one person online. Welcome,Noah. And also the time limit is up to three
minutes. Please state your name.
Petersen: Yeah,My name- do you hear me?
Teague: Yes,welcome.
Petersen: Yes. Hello. Yes. My name is Noah. Read a little bit here. Resolution improving,
authorizing and directing the Mayor, executing the City Clerk to attest an agreement by
in-between- of Iowa City OPN Architects Inc,to provide agriculture, architectural and
engineering consultant services for the City,the City Hall Master Plan feasibility project.
Comment. This agenda item authorizes an agreement to provide consulting services for
the so-called master plan and feasibility city project. This project is noted in the City's
recent plan and helps ensure eventual creation of a plan that comment physically since it
needs to. Places needs city and operations for decades to come.Now,just reading that on
your agenda,which everyone there only has a paper agenda, so you go online,they will
not know that this agenda item costs 100- estimated cost $105,000 to pay an outside
consultant agency over $100,000 to tell the city [INAUDIBLE] . I think it's really
disgusting and undemocratic of you to have this over $100,000 taxpayer. The item that
[INAUDIBLE] . recommend [INAUDIBLE] to not even mention how much it costs and
you said it ended. It's not it's just not on this agenda and putting it on the consent agenda,
not allowing discussion about this. In over $100,000 to outside you're told consulting
firm recommendations on what kind of space they need. It's just really ridiculous to waste
over 100,000 [INAUDIBLE] to give this to architects to tell [INAUDIBLE]
Compensation.Now you're designing these plans like building up we building plans.
Again,the fact that we need that anymore,you should pause on the current police station
and be abolishing the police regardless. Why would you [INAUDIBLE] Not you have
any public comment on this. even what public know the agenda that this is what this It's
really does [INAUDIBLE] so. So I would like someone explains to me it's okay to have
this on the consent agenda. Hello, I asked a question, I would like a response.
Teague: This is your opportunity to speak to the Council.
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Petersen: And it's [INAUDIBLE] and answer my question tell me why you're putting $100,000
handout to your friends? I'm assuming this is a handout to one of your friends, other else,
why else would you.. What does it not tell the public what it is?But you have every other
thing- every other item has the price but this one seemingly doesn't. That's very odd.
Teague: Thank you. Anyone else like to address this topic,please come forth. Seeing no one
else for the consent agenda online or in-person. Council discussion. Roll-call,please.
(Roll Call) Motion passes 7 - 0. Could I get a motion to accept correspondence for item
Number 7a?
Alter: So moved,Alter.
Bergus: Second Bergus.
Teague: All in favor say aye. (Voice Vote)Aye. Any oppose motion passes 7 - 0.
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8. Community Comment
Teague: We're on to item Number 8,which is community comment. This is an opportunity for
members to come forth on any item that is not on our agenda. And if I can see the hands
of individuals that want to speak during this time. Okay. We're going to allow three
minutes per individual and we will,um, ask that you sign in at the podium unless you
have a sticker and you can place it in the basket. Welcome. Please state your name and
city you are from.
Protheroe: Uh,Jerry Protheroe, Iowa City. A growing group of dedicated City Park Pool
enthusiasts has organized to ensure the future aquatic capabilities and community served
by a repaired or renovated outdoor pool at City park matches what is fully accomplished
by the current pool design. We're calling ourselves City Park Pool Back to the Future,
catchy name. Because over 70 years ago,the city of Iowa City and community came
together, designed and built a pool that continues to be relevant and inclusive for Iowa
City community members. Members of City Park Pool Back to the Future represent a
cross-section of community pool users. We're not just lap swimmers. We have water
walkers,water polo enthusiasts, swim club members, a few that just like to get into pool
and then enjoy the sun afterwards. Some have a passion for 50 meter lap swimming.
Some have a really strong preference for 25 yard swimming. We have grandparents that
are now bringing in their grandchildren to the pool themselves that they grew up loving.
At the same time, the same group members, City Park Pool Back to the Future,that I just
mentioned,have different opinions on what would be acceptable for a future City Park
Pool. There are those in the group with a strong preference for historic preservation.
Others that would be happy to see a similar pool but totally redone. And then there's even
those that are fine with a brand new design. However, all of us share a common vision. A
future City Park pool with aquatic capabilities and communities served that at a
minimum,matches what is fully accomplished by the current pool design.Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. All right. And,um, and if you're wanting to speak,you can just line up and
come up to the podium. I'm gonna go online to Loulwa. Welcome. And if you're wanting
to speak,please stand at the podium and I'll address you. Welcome.
Soweid: Hi. Can you guys hear me okay?
Teague: Yes,we can.
Soweid: Hi. So my name is Loulwa, I also go by Lou. I'm an Iowa City resident and community
member and I just wanted to comment on the increase in police funding that's going to
take place in fiscal year 24. So I have my Master of Public Health. I work at the
University of Iowa College of Public Health and I care very deeply about the health and
well-being of our community. I was present also via Zoom at the last City Council
meeting in support of Laura Bergus' proposal and I noticed that there were a lot of
community members bringing up the fact that they had experienced police violence and
felt like they were actually unsafe in the presence of police. And I also saw that more
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than 40 community members supported the reallocation of police funds to local non-
profits who provide services such as nonviolent de-escalation, food,housing, and health
care to the community. The American Public Health Association has also echoed these
sentiments. They've cited law enforcement violence as a public health issue and they've
recommended that federal, state, tribal, and local authorities implement community-based
alternatives to addressing harms and preventing trauma. I really believe that moving
forward, enacting these recommended strategies would really show that you're listening
to the concerns of the people you represent and the advice of national health experts. It
would also allow you to illustrate some of the values that the Council listed in their
strategic plan by reallocating funds for policing and carceral systems into community-led
initiatives that work to make meet the basic needs of vulnerable populations. You'd be
highlighting a community-you'd be highlighting a commitment to racial equity, social
justice, and human rights and you would also be investing in the formation of new
partnerships and the nurturing of current partnerships with community organizations that
center the community's needs and perspectives. I want to end my comment by posing
these questions to all the City Council members who voted to increase the police budget.
Firstly, after hearing so much vocal support from community members against the
increase,what work are you doing now to ensure that your decision aligns with our
community values? Secondly,with so many people ringing alarm bells about police
violence or inefficacy and the need for so much more support for so many community
needs and organizations. Why were you comfortable raising the police budget almost $1
million without a careful and deliberate process including community input?And finally,
you set up the budget for fiscal year 24 was not the right place to be making changes. If
that is what you believe,then what is your plan to be ready for the budget in fiscal year
25? I urge you to consider this because next year, community organizations and harm
reduction and prevention initiatives will still be in need of more support. Many
community members will still be struggling to get their basic needs met and we will still
be showing up to demand that the City truly invest in community health and well-being
as opposed to more policing and more carceral systems. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Protheroe: Thank you. My name is Sue Protheroe I live in Iowa City. Here's why I'm here. I
recently ran across a series of podcasts called Watts Happening, created by local
developer Gary Watts. On April 4th, Gary interviewed Geoff Fruin. Gary who swims at
City Park, calls the pool a gem. In response Fruin says the pool is, "Truly a unique gem
here in Iowa City." He goes on to talk about its age and issues and then says,we'll be
moving into a design phase because we anticipate the reconstruction of that pool in 2025.
We need to find a balance between preserving that unique character while also making
sure that we're welcoming all types of swimmers and all types of users of different
abilities. Right now the pool is really fantastic if you are a lap swimmer. For people just
becoming swimmers,that pool is not as welcoming. We'll be going through a design
process here probably in the next year." I have two concerns. The fust is that Fruin has
skipped over the fust four steps in the cities on process spelled out in the RFQ. Those
steps are to review data, evaluate the current conditions of the facility,prepare a report of
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current conditions and present that report to City Council, letting Council decide whether
to renovate or rebuild. This makes me wonder whether City staff truly views the process
laid out in the RFQ is simply words on paper, or truly a process created to find the best
outdoor pool for our community. My second concern is that both Geoff and Juli Seydell
Johnson are pushing this narrative that City Park Pool isn't welcoming and pitting lap
swimmers against other users. While certainly the entrance and the bathhouse have issues
the City's own data does not support the claim that the-that the public finds the pool itself
not welcoming. And I, for one,reject that narrative. City Park Pool is a gem and part of
the reason is that the design allows so many groups of users, including non-swimmers,to
happily co-exist. As we move forward in the repair or replace process, I'd love to see City
staff working with the community to arrive at a solution that works for all of us. And
maybe stop promoting false narratives that only serve to cause distrust and division.
Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. We're gonna go online to Hannah and when we return,we'll go to you.
Welcome Hannah.
Zadeh: Can you hear me?
Teague: Yes. Please state your name and city.
Zadeh: My name is Hannah Zadeh I'm from Iowa City, Iowa.
Teague: Welcome.
Zadeh: Thank you. So I am also here to comment on the increase of the police budget that,um,
occurred two weeks ago. Um,my question to the Councilors today is how they plan to
move forward after hearing that the public it's clearly concerned,um,with this increase to
the police budget. You heard over 40 public commenters express their concern about
approving a budget that allocates over 25% of the general funds budget on police. Um, as
public servants, I am urging you to listen to our community and take real action to stop
increasing the police budget and re-allocate to other much needed services like crisis
response,um, and housing,to just list a few things. Um, and since I was cut off last time,
we were all cut off last time cause we only had one minute,um, I just want to reiterate
the experience that I showed last time. Um, when I was working as a crisis counselor
talking to folks experiencing crisis,the police were never a helpful addition,um,the
answer was never crisis response working with police. It was common place for the folks
that I was working with to,um, hesitate sharing,um,that they were in crisis because they
were worried that I was gonna call the police. Um, it-you know, I think, er, there's like a
common thing you can gauge how good a policy is by how it impacts the most
marginalized members of our community. Um, and if we want to know how it impacts
them,we should listen to them. Um, and I also want to reiterate that as we reject the
egregious, er, state legislation,um,that's threatening the lives of trans and other queer
people,um, I urge Councilors to understand the critical connection between fighting for
trans lives and allocating money away from the police. If the City is going to take action
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to protect trans people,um,that means allocating money to the services that trans and
queer people need. Police is not that service. Um, again, I'm asking you,the City Council
move forward and take real action addressing these concerns,um, and allocate money
away from the police. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Covington: Hello. My name is Mika Covington and I live here in Iowa City. And so I'm speaking
today as a resident of Iowa City,but also as the president of Next Generation of
Cystinosis. We are a 501 c3 non-profit organization. We are run by and for adults living
with cystinosis; a rare disease. And our organization works to support adults living with
the disease, educate the public, including medical field, and advocate for the needs of
those living with cystinosis. So I am here to ask the Council to, again,host a meeting
about the budget;the police budget. I have a unique perspective on this because people
living with rare diseases such as I re-rely on social security disability. With that,we can't
afford to really live in spaces that are accessible and accommodate our needs. I was just
going through this myself and had to move into a different place because it wasn't
accessible for me to have peritoneal dialysis. And so my recommendation and the
organization's recommendation is we move move of the funds from the police budget
over to establishing more affordable housing that is accessible to people with disabilities
and rare diseases. Thank you for your time.
Teague: Thank you. Yep. Welcome.
Sterling: Greetings, Council. My name is David Sterling and I'm a resident of Iowa City. I'm
following up from the dialogue at the last meeting that we had regarding the police
budget. I'd like to address the Councilors' expressed desires for more data on how to
redistribute police funding. I'll begin by providing this item. The Iowa City Community
School District could provide universal pre-K with the funds from the 4/4/23 police
department budget increase from two weeks ago. Uh,the funding that Iowa City
Community School District requested was $5,000 less than what was given to the police.
The vast majority of crime has been traced to people experiencing precarious conditions.
We often call this the struggle. The police do not educate children in the absence of
daycare nor save parents money on said care. They do not give parents extra time in their
day to get a headlight fixed; one that they might be given a citation for. They will never
give parents much needed time to guide their older children away from dangerous
behavior. Reuters reported a multi-criminologist review of 60 studies on policing. This
empirically proved,there is no valid link between crime prevention and the size of a
police force. In the requests for citizens to provide more data and input, I must ask
Council to lay out what input and data is missing. If there is a piece missing from this
puzzle, it is not apparent to the community you serve. Councilor Bergus provided a
wealth of empirical data from experts in the blog that she shared with you all. I ask you to
each share your thoughts on that data and its sufficiency. If you are unsure, I urge you to
add experts on these matters as advisors in future sessions regarding the budget. Thank
you. I yield the rest of my time.
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Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Bracewell: Hi. My name is Tristan Bracewell. Uh, I live in Iowa City. Uh, I'd also like to revisit
the dialogue that we had the last City Council meeting around the 2024 fiscal year budget
and the increase in police funding. I know a lot of you said that you felt that Laura
Bergus' amendment was rushed and that you needed to see more data. Um, so similar to
David's, I guess I just want to ask, did you all read Laura's blog because there's a lot of
data in there. Um, so I'm not sure again,what data points you're looking for that are
missing. Um,maybe you just disagree with some of that data. Um,but another data point
from there that I like to bring up is that 40% of City budget is fire and police. In our
strategic plan for the City of Iowa City it's mandated to work with relevant nonprofix-
nonprofits on crime prevention and that's only 0.4%. So I'm not great at math,but that's, I
think 100 times more spent on fire and police than on working with the relevant
nonprofits,which seems a little excessive. Um, Councilman Alter mentioned, quote,here
that the- felt the 45 people that spoke at the last meeting in favor of Laura Bergus'
amendment were maybe not representative of the whole community, er, and a lot of you
mentioned we need to get feedback from everyone. Um, so I guess I want to know what's
your plan to get that feedback and who are the relevant people you want feedback from.
Have you asked perspectives,um, from some of these nonprofit partners, from harm
reduction experts, or crisis counselors?Because I know we, er,the citizens of Iowa City,
gave a pretty overwhelming opinion, er, on increasing the police budget,um,but that
didn't really seem to have any sway on the way you voted. Um, as far as I can tell,the
only sources of input you brought up that you're listening to are the police department
itself and Geoff Fruin. Um,which is great, um,but I would- I would love to hear, er,how
you plan to get perspectives from other people that have stakes in this, er, as well. Um,
and I have a little bit of time left, so I'm just gonna hit. I know, er,Noah spoke earlier on
an item on the-the agenda here,but I want to make sure everyone got a chance to hear
that. I couldn't hear it from back there. Um,but,um, yeah there was an item on the
Consent Agenda for 105,000 to a consultant to,um, look into relocating the police
department into its own building so they have more space. Um, and tha-that number that,
er,receipt is not on, er, the agenda that's provided to us the citizens. So that did feel a
little strange to have that hidden in there, an- and you guys voted on it real quickly,um,
there. So, er, I like just wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to-to hear his point
there. Er, and I'm going to yield the rest of my time,but thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Beasley: Hello.
Teague: Hello.
Beasley: My name is Beth Beasley. I'm a life long resident of Iowa City. And I use all three of
our public pools. With my experience using all three of the public pools in my childhood
and in my adulthood and bringing my children to all three of these pools,um, as they've
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aged, I understand they need maintenance. So I know you're preparing to do that and I
would like to make sure that you're aware of all the positive pool activities that go on at
the City Park Pool because I know that's your fust,um,the fust piece that you're going to
address in the pool,um,updates or whatever you want to call them,uh,the facilities
planning. Um,but when we look at City Park Pool, um,there's shallow water that's
available for exploration, for young people, for people just to sit about in and for play.
Like I remember my children,um, doing alligators in there particularly. We have a
medium depth for play,walking, aerobics, swimming lessons, laps,medium depth. I kind
of think that that's a big play section as well. And then there's deep water diving. We have
that gorgeous super tall diving board and the water to allow people to jump off of it. Um,
it's also a confidence building,uh,tool when teaching swimming,the deep water is. And
we-when it's a long lap,we can do our,uh, our 50- 50 meter laps, including that deep
water. The pool size and design allows for this 50 meter lap swimming and also could
host competitions. Um,when I look at City Park Pool, I love the trees, I love the grassy
areas and the concrete areas that allow lounging and gathering and visiting in them as
they are already. Um, if renovation is needed, I really,um,recommend or hope that you
will consider the whole three pool system and maybe not just putting everything of
interest into the one pool at City Park, maybe spreading things out. You know, some of
the things that I saw on the plan,um, I thought might be good to help revitalize the
outdoor area at Mercer park and to revitalize the indoor area at Robert A. Lee. Think
broadly. I thank you for your time. And that's it.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome. State your name and city,please.
Eynon-Lynch: Hi, everyone. I'm Riley Eynon-Lynch from Iowa City. Ah, first of all, I just want
to say thanks for your time and patience. I know you're in a position of immense
responsibility and complexity. Um, I'm trying to do my part as a citizen and building
neighborhood strength through community engagement and building social bonds
between neighbors and doing different things to help,uh, our neighborhoods be stronger.
Um, and one of the latest things we focused on was the vote on the police,vote on the
entire budget,but specifically the $1 million for police are not,uh, last week. Um, and I-
I thought this might not be visible to you all. Uh,we- in- in my little pocket that I
engaged with,we-we did a lot of research and we held discussions and we met with and
we met with the chief of police. Uh, we debated amongst ourselves and carefully,um,
decided,you know,how best to act and how to represent ourselves. Um, and I was
personally disappointed that you voted to increase the police budget. But again, I know
that things are complicated. The bigger picture I- I want to talk about is that all these
people did this,uh,this work to try to get engaged. And our-the reaction we've got was-
it did not feel like we were particularly well heard.Not that you had to vote our way or
won't feel heard,but the-the statements from the various that voted to increase the
budget after all, didn't feel like they were addressing the points that,um,that we felt we
had carefully researched. And so on the meta level of how do we engage with City
Counselors , I think we thought that we were doing the right- a good way to do it. And it
feels now, especially coming in to see that some of the, excuse me,this is just a frog in
my throat. I'm not sick,um. I'm disappointed not to see the discussion that was promised
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about mentioned on the agenda yet or to see responses or- or follow up. Yeah, I
understand that many of you said it was too fast for fiscal Year 24. My main question is,
can you help us see how we should participate so that for fiscal year 25, it won't be too
late to either accept the data and the research and the alternatives that we're all trying to
bring. Or to understand more about why you think those alternatives are not,uh, good
solutions. So that we can move forward together. But not feel like we're just sort of
harassing and annoying you and then being ignored,which I don t think you intend to do.
I think you'd do tons of work to-to listen,um. But I know it's hard to understand how the
other side feels so it sort of not to make it a two sides thing,but I just want to represent
all the work that people are doing to try to,uh, communicate with you and let you know
that right now it's not feeling like that works. And I would like help meeting in the
middle. Thanks.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Zeimet: Hi. My name is Keaton Zeimet from Iowa City. Hi Council. I'm speaking as a student
and resident of Iowa City and not for the undergraduate student government. As you've
probably seen in the news and extreme right-wing student run ideology group is hosting a
conservative committee and self-proclaimed transphobic speaker,Matt Walsh at the
University tomorrow night. The rhetoric-rhetoric that he promotes is detrimental to the
safety and lives of the trans and LGBT-LGBTQ plus community. People in our
community. This hate speech should not be tolerated anywhere on our campus or in the
greater Iowa City area. I'd like to reaffirm that silence is compliance and hate speech in
any format should not be allowed to fester in our community. As a Council, I urge you to
take a strong stance against the transphobic rhetoric entering our community. And I invite
you to join the protests with students in the community at Hubbard Park,4-8 p.m
tomorrow. Thank you for your time.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Ross: Who controls that clock? I'm curious. Oh, it's you. Okay.Now that I've distracted you, I
get an extra second there.
Teague:Name and city,please.
Ross: I wanna remind-my name is Brandon Ross. I wanna remind,uh,people that there was a
meeting on,uh,April 4th. There was a tornado that night, and basically the people,the
citizens were shut out of the meeting. However,the councilors and the management,
were-were here and the meeting was held. Those who wanted to be in had to use Zoom
and we were just given last-minute notification. So during a very important meeting
where the budget was going on,this-uh,the people were shut out. Uh, I've been in
meetings at the City Council where we all were, uh,you know,tornado,uh,you know, in
the basement or somewhere in the back there. I got stuck with any number of councilors
wanting to tell me, ah, stories about baseball,their life stories, and things. But we all-we
all made it. Uh, anyway, so I don t think you should do that again,uh, one or the other.
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You know,postpone the meeting,uh, don't sacrifice our to tornadoes and other natural
and unnatural disasters would be a good idea. Um,my-my point here,uh, is not
unrelated to what has already been spoken about. I would- I would like to just,uh,bring
up that in 2019,Jimmy Carter. Anyone here remember Jimmy Carter?Uh,was speaking
with Donald Trump. Uh, anyone here remember Donald Trump? Choose not to
remember him. But anyway,this is not a joke. He was speaking with Donald Trump and
he said to Donald Trump,he said, "Why-why is it that we're- that you're so against China
and against other countries?"But China was of interest. Russia was in their, other
countries. And he said to Donald Trump,he said, "You know, since I was President,"
Jimmy Carter was president in 1976-1980. He said, "Since I've been President,we've
been at war in the United States, bombing people, overturning governments,attacking,
invading consistently- consistently. We've never not been bombing somebody."Jimmy
Carter said to Donald Trump, "Do you know how many- do you know how many
countries that China has attacked in that time since I was president?"And the the answer
is zero. China has attacked zero countries. Malcohn X said when John F Kennedy was
assassinated, it was a harsh comment,but we know where it comes from. He said the
chickens are coming home to roost. We live in a violent country, a militarized country,
and a policed country. And what goes on overseas,which is horrifying, comes back
home. So sacrificing homeless people and working-class people for a larger police force,
I think is a bad idea. And I think that should be reconsidered. Laura Bergus,thank you so
much for your work in this area.
Teague: Thank you. We're gonna go online to Noah. Welcome.
Fruehling: I'm going to have to ask Lily if she can do it. My names have disappeared so-
Teague: If-yeah.No-
Petersen: Hello, can you- can hear me now?
Teague;Yes,we can. Welcome.
Petersen: All right. Wonderful. Um, I would- I would just like to thank you for the last meeting.
Um,just really laying bare for everybody how much you truly really have so much
disdain for the community and you really don't care what community says. You've
already made up your decision, [INAUDIBLE] which is just the police budget. All by
you know,what you have a mass killing people on the street, and Bruce, even what you
do best you limited people's ability to comment to one minute, cutting people off. People
talking about the trauma,brutality faced by ICPD and you don't really-you obviously
don't care about that, so you cut them off when they're speaking, and then give them
another million dollars as a [INAUDIBLE] , police to do more brutality in the
community. This isn't just [INAUDIBLE] of you Bruce, it's the rest- it's all six of you
that voted to increase the,uh,budget by a million dollars. And,um. I lost my train of
thought. Umm. It's really [INAUDIBLE] and to me that the- a landlord mayor would tell
me that,he doesn't-we can't do anything for housing,but we can spend a quarter of our
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budget on policing. Really makes you think that, it's not odd,you spend a quarter of our
budget on a paramilitary force that utilizes to survails,harasses, and terrorizes their
community, does nothing to help,uh,the house community. But we can't spend any
money on housing,you just got to work with private partners,while spending a quarter of
the budget on the force that committed war crimes against his people. Because gassing is
banned by the Geneva Convention because they realized,wow,this is really terrible thing
to do to people, so they banned it. And yet, I see ICPD ,but you know what
[INAUDIBLE] they're saying no-no to White supremacy,no to police brutality. Do you
know what we're gonna do?Let's gas THE living shit of them. What's? Oh,there's an
ambulance coming because someone's having a medical emergency, send in some more
gas. We have on video camera,hearing cop said,Yeah, let them eat gas, among others.
They're just laughing. Like cops really love gassing these guys. These guys said no,
[INAUDIBLE] let's spray them, let's beat them, let's shoot them with rubber bullets. And
how has Iowa City City Council reward ICPD since then? [INAUDIBLE] Of the
budget. And you're up here now, giving them a million-dollar budget increase.No,just-
Teague: Thank you.
Petersen: It's sad.
Teague: All right. We're going to end our public comment time. Thanks to everyone that has
come forth.
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9. Planning& Zoning Matters
9.a Rezoning—JJR Davis Second and Fourth Additions Subdivisions -
Ordinance rezoning approximately 13.00 acres of property located within the JJR
Davis Second Addition and JJR Davis Fourth Addition Subdivisions and between
Mormon Trek Blvd. and Dane Rd. SE from Commercial Office Zone(CO-1)to
Intensive Commercial Zone(CI-1) (REZ23-0002).
Teague: We're gonna move on to Item number 9,which is planning and zoning matters. 9A as
rezoning JJR Davis second addition and JJR Davis fourth addition subdivisions located
between Mormon Trek Boulevard and Dane Road Southeast. Co-ordinates,re-rezone
and approximately 13 acres of property located within the JJR Davis second addition and
JJR Davis fourth addition subdivisions in between Mormon Trek Boulevard and Dane
Road Southeast from commercial zone, off his zone to intensive commercial zone. And
I'm going to open up the public hearing. And I know that our staff gave us a presentation
at our- our earlier meaning for 4:23. Um, I don't know if you have any additional
information. Any questions by Council to staff? Seeing none in the applicant developer.
Um, any comments by-yes,welcome. Thank you. Dave Larsen, is that your name?
1. Public Hearing [Continued from 4/4/231
Larsen: I hope so.
Teague: All right. Welcome.
Larsen: Um,John Dane and I were partners and we created the, er,where the fust Menards
building went. I don't know if you know where that is or where that was. That's where
Procter& Gamble is now located. And we develop that. After we got done with that,we
started up and started to get interested in his farm up by his house there. So let's see if we
can work this correctly. You see what I'm showing you? Okay. Can you guys see it okay?
Teague: Yes.
Larsen: So yeah,that's great. So George and John are brothers and John Dane house,they built
their houses,John's to the North and George's to the south. And you can see the view here
in John's house or endurance- George's house, overlooking the airport runway. And then
also looking downtown,you can see the downtown also from this side. So the view from
John's house and George's house is to the north,northeast, east, south east and south. And
that's where the view is. And I'll show you later on kind of the elevations of that in just a
second.So let's go to the beginning here and I'll go to page 3 maybe. Where is it Ashley?
How do I get back to page 3?
Platz: Page 3 you just hit tab.
Larsen: Okay.
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Platz: That's page 3,right there.
Larsen: That's page 3. Okay. So here, in the beginning before Mormon trek came through
George's house and his property was to the West. John's property was to the east. And
then when Mormon trek came through, George did not want to develop land. John did. So
what they did was they did a flip or an exchange. And let's see if I can get to the
exchanger. There we go. So then John took the south part along Mormon trek and then
George took the east part of his house there. So that was his 17 acres and then John had
the other 20-some acres. But included in John's 20 acres was this very steep hill-hill,
which is right there to the east of Georgia's property. So from the beginning,back before
Mormon trek was created,um John did want to develop the property. And if you look up
above there uh where the rezone is being taken,there's a line there and that's the old fence
row between John Dane and the Davis family. Okay. And the Davis family owned all the
land to the south. And then John own over here and north of that fence row. And so John
does own or his family now owns everything north of that old fence line. And they are in
favor of the zoning back-back where it was. So that kind of gives you that flavor. Switch
in. So here's a topography of how steep that hill to the east of John's property. And I've
sat there at the picnic table. And wild away two or three hours easy,watching plane's
gone landing and watching the downtown there, it's a beautiful view and I hope George's
property is converted to a park. It'd be perfect. It's a beautiful view. So we're very much
in favor of that. During the construction of Mormon trek,Mormon trek,they had to dig
down at least 20 feet of dirt and- and so that left 20 feet on the east side and 20 feet on the
west side. So all that dirt was moved over to the Minard site, the new Minard site. And
that's how we got rid of all that dirt, it's huge 400,000 cubic yards. So that's what
prepared this way. And Mormon trek is a Beltway and you guys probably already know
that eventually would go over and connect with Scott Boulevard. So McAllister is part of
that. And we'll continue on- on through. Here's a closer view. So George's house sits
around 750 feet above sea level and if you go to the east,that's around 670 feet above sea
level. So there's a drop there of around 70 feet to the East. To the West,there is still a
drop there of about 18 feet. So George's house sits does sit on a hill um on both sides of
that. And so- so our initial zone was CI-1 and so that whole area, if we go backwards let's
see here. Yes. Where the purple there? Well, you can see it there. Uh, so all of that CI-1
was all Zone CI-1. But then PIP printing came along and learned a lot. And so the city
said that they wouldn't fit in the CI-1 zone. So, um, PIP had-we had to go in and change
the zone from CI-1 to CO so the PIP could fit there. So since then,uh,back in,um,back
in 2013,there was an ordinance that was made. Let's see here. Right there. It's gonna be
hard to read,but it was in your packet. Hopefully you had an opportunity to read it. And-
and I can mention some of that. So this ordinance was created and into CI-1 zone
became part of its CC-2. So what we have here,they encouraged-the City Council
encouraged the establishment of this ordinance. They wanted to see more variety and that
CI-1 zone. So CC-2 came along where you can have eating establishments, drinking
establishments,banking,you could have banking, dental offices,personal service
oriented retail,uh,hospitality, sales oriented retail, uh,religious and private group
assembly. So as a wide variety of things and as a result of that,that's CI-1 zone became
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probably one of the top commercial zones to have. Because it lended so much flexibility.
And it was really,uh,pretty awesome that they came up with this,uh,plan. It really
encouraged people to come and purchase property there. As PIP will probably tell you,
he's been there since I think 2007. During that period of time,nobody except for the
University who's going to put a clinic there. And since then,uh,nobody has purchased
the office zone. Office zones been a kinda hit due to the COVID thing and people are
now working at home. So if- if the city wants to recoup some of the money it's spending
on that,uh, extension of Mormon trek all the way over one of the ways to do that is to get
this back to where that land can bring in some really amazing,uh,prospects of a wide
variety there. You can still even have office there so there not changing. So what it
amounts to CI-1 is actually three zones, CC-2, CI-1, and CO-1. So you can- so like I said,
it's one of the better zones out there. Um, so,um, we don't feel we're in conflict with,
um-with the park. We enc-we would encourage and loved to have a product there. The
people that work there currently are always out at noon,walking that area. And it would
provide an awesome area to go and eat your lunch. I hope it happens sooner than later. I
don't know the timetable on that. If it's- if it's tomorrow or if it's 30,40 years from now, it
needs to be there. And we also,um,had a potential client. Um, let's see an item,back one
right there. We had a potential client that was going in just to the West of where the
Telephone Tower and George Dane's house is. And one of the things that the city staff
and the Council recommended is that we put a row of pine trees and trees all along there.
So it acts kinda as a buffer between the commercial or the CI-1 and their house. So that is
another possibility that would help-help promote the CI-1 zone there. I think though the
CI-1 zone,probably,um,the intensive use of a CI-1 zone probably would be less likely
than maybe the CC-2 because of the cost,the cost of the land is getting a little higher
above what you would use it in a CI-1 zone, like- like Menards,they paid $3.50 a square
foot over there. Whereas,um,this is a lot higher than that. So it would only allow maybe,
uh, some people that can afford it more. So anyway, I encourage,uh, I encouraged the
use, I'll repeat it again. I think it's probably one of the best commercial zones and it would
not be offensive. Like there are opportunities to create downward lighting,um, as is in
place in the Billion Auto area. Uh, this isn't necessarily going to be an auto area. Even
though the Billion,uh, company,uh, is currently,uh,the Mormon Trek properties that
people that have the-the offer on the this land and going in for the rezoning,but the
Billion Auto is being taken over by another private individual. And that ends individuals,
uh, investment criteria are different than Billion family. They're encouraging-they want
to get into more real estate development like shopping, strips centers and so forth. So,
um,we'll see. But I think I encourage you guys to look at the financial facts. It's
necessary and that we encourage and would love to have that park-that park there. So
any questions?Did I go over my three minutes.
Harmsen: I- I do have a couple of questions for you. Um,you said that you and John Dane were
partners for a long time and you were partners during the time when they did sort of the
swap of land for development when Mormon trek came in. During that time period,you
guys were partners than two?
Larsen: Yeah.
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Harmsen: My question-
Larsen: We own some property in there together, actually.
Harmsen: Oh, okay. Okay. My question is,uh, looking at the screens you have up here,the CI-1
to the South and Southwest of the George Dane property. When that was switched around
and made CI-1,was there-was there any pushback at that time to the existing CI-1 that's
in the South and Southwest?
Larsen: Yes. The same situation that exists today.
Harmsen: Okay.
Larsen: Same George Dane's family has always wanted to like George in the beginning when
John and George traded properties,they didn't want to be part of the development. They
didn't want to develop their land. John did. And so,um, at that time,they expressed their
concerns that they didn't want but it's still went through to CI-1. So that hasn't changed
over the last 20 approximately years. They still have that same- same feelings towards the
development.
Harmsen: Thank you.
Teague: Say no other questions. Thank you.
Larsen: Yep.
Teague: All right,would anyone from the public like to address this topic? If so,please step to
the podium. There is a sign-in sheet there. There's also some stickers on the back that you
can sign in. I want to see how many individuals want to speak to this topic. If I can have
at show of hands. I see 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and then two online. Okay. So I'm gonna
keep it at three minutes if no one else joins and if someone else joins and I am gonna to
drop the time down at that point. Welcome.
Hughy: Thank you.
Teague: Please state your name and city.
Hughy: My name is Timothy Huey and I'm from Davenport. Uh, I was here in April 4th and I
was here at 4 o'clock, a work session with the planning commission and I think you have
an excellent process here,but which you review rezonings and allow full consideration of
all the issues. I wanna to speak to your comprehensive plan and your,um, south district
plan, south central district plan for the airport. Uh, I think those both are excellent
examples of documents to help you make judgments like this. And,uh, a comprehensive
plan always addresses conflicting,uh, issues and it's up to your planning commission and
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our City Council to determine where the preponderance lies in that. And I would submit
that you have a unique situation here. A unique situation both because of the lay of the
land,that this is a high knoll that overlooks, as has been said, of 360 degree view of the-
of the pr- of the,uh, area. And you also have a unique ownership situation here. If land is
over $3 a square foot,you can do the math and what 17 plus acres,uh, is worth, and you
have a family here that has dedicated that to the public and so their concerns about the
rezoning of this land to an intensive commercial isn't related to their economic benefit,
it's related to the benefit of the community. And so I think that's a very unique situation
and,uh, I'll let others speak to the,um, irrevocable trust,the legal mechanisms that set up
to ensure that that does become a park at,uh, some point in the future. And all they're
asking for is for you to look at your comp plan, look at good planning, and have that
transition. And yes,you can buffer with,you know, our provided evergreen trees along
the edges of- of commercial property. But by very name, intensive commercial indicates
that the use is more intensive than the office commercial. And so if you go from the
intensive commercial there on the,uh, south and west side of Morgan Trek Boule-
Mormon Trek Boulevard, and then on the east side,that office commercial allows that
transition to the park and open space. You have a unique area here where you have the
airport and the fairgrounds. You have single-family,uh,um, development,you have
agricultural,but you have intense commercial,you have industrial. So you have to look at
how can you protect this park and that's what the Dane family,uh,trust is asking for.
They're not asking you to take anything away from the current landowner. Uh, I don t
think anything has changed since,uh, 2007 when they established the current zoning.
And,um, I realized that's the recommendation your planning commission and from what
they said to you,you know,they had valid reasons for that. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. We're gonna go online to Noah. Welcome. And those that are wanting to
speak, I do ask that you join in in a line,please. Oh,um,we're gonna go to Larry.Noah
took his hand down. Welcome Larry. Online.
Ellingson: Okay.Now I'm unmuted. Can you hear me?
Teague: Yes. Welcome to- state your name and city,please.
Ellingson: My name is Larry Ellison. I'm from Iowa City. I've had the privilege,uh, of knowing
Jane and the- and the Dane family and I've been out to their property. Um, sometimes I
wonder if all the commissioners had been there because one was implying you couldn't
see to the west where you can-this is a pristine property. I- I- one of the reasons I came
to Iowa City was because of the parks. My very first home was on,uh, Oak Crest and
Holt,three houses away from city park. My third grade daughter,when I arrived at this
community and I and my wife used that park every single day for every single season.
And this property is going to be superior to that when it becomes a park, I'm truly believe
it will become a park. I know George's plans and I know what he intended.And I'm- I'm
very concerned. I had been out there at nighttime. I have looked and,you know, I- I
understand that the city is trying to make the lights so that they are as positive as they can
be,but they aren't. I- I hope any of you have been out there, go out there and see what it
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does. It takes away the ambiance of the beauty of that land. There is no other park in any
community around us that has the beauty that that land has. Um,you know,you can just
see so far in so many directions the beauty is- is- is tough and I- I'm very concerned that
if we go to the CI-1, that that beauty will be taken away. If,you know,when you look
around,you see commercial properties,the city park that I live by for-they never had that
happen and,uh, I don't think the city would allow it. And- and this is a gift to the city that
I think should be used as it was planned to be used. Uh,we can still have houses be built
around it in it's current,uh,uh,rating. I don't think it needs to change. That's just my-my
honest opinion from someone that's been there day and night and other times and seeing
the beauty and,uh, loves parks. That's one of the three things that brought myself and my
family to this community. And I thank you for your time and I- I definitely opposed
changing the-the scenario. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Teague: Welcome.
Zitler: Rod Zitler, Iowa City. I'm here to speak against the zoning change. Um,thank you for
having me,um,Mayor and Council members. I want to talk about the opportunity to plan
ahead. Uh,the future park needs to be designated on the cities and counties
comprehensive and master planning documents, informed and intentional decisions are
made when planning for future designated areas,whether they be schools, libraries, fire
station,waterways, or parks. Creating transitions and buffering spaces between users is
wise and thoughtful community planning. Thoughtful foresight of city leaders and
planners will benefit this community and keep future generations from wondering what
were we thinking of when we did this. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. I'm gonna welcome Noah online.
Petersen: All right. Can you hear me?
Teague: Yes,welcome.
Petersen: Okay. I'm also going to urge you to not change this zoning. What the previous
speaker's saying is to [INAUDIBLE] [INAUDIBLE] to have more parks. I mean,
whenever you [INAUDIBLE] are not the [INAUDIBLE] That's just- that's just a pretty
simple thing,but yes,that's what we should be doing,we should be [INAUDIBLE]
promotes the common good that's good for everybody,not capitalists to profit off of land
that should be public land that everyone gets to enjoy rather than just a couple of people's
money. Yes turn this into a park,not some commercial whatever. I mean if you care
about climate change and the local ecology environment,having more parks helps reduce
pollution and will capture more carbon,having more plants,the parks are good. Have
more parks please. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
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Rickey: Good evening,Mr. Mayor,members of Council. My name is George Rickey. I'm from
Iowa City and I'm here to vote against the rezoning request. And I'll start out with a
passage from a song, a group that was just here a couple of weeks ago. The Nitty-Gritty
Dirt Band. I want to stand upon a rock and watch the river flow with the blue sky above
me in the valley down below. I want to hold my head up high and listen to the wind.
Because when it's gone, it won't be back again. The topography of the area is just
absolutely exceptional. I've been there, I've been able to see that the cupula at City High
from there. It's George Dane has left the city with a beautiful blank canvas that you can
develop as you see fit. As a park with its potential myriad of uses, it is of far more
beneficial use than being encroached by commercial concrete and- and- and then
encapsulation. And its- it's aesthetics. People will come to a beautiful park. They may not
come to a park if it's surrounded and encapsulated by massive commercial development.
So in closing, and here's the aesthetics point of view, it is a critical factor,which is the
very reason why you do not see the Mona Lisa displayed next to a hot dog cart. Thank
you very much.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome and if you're seated in just waiting for your turn, or just raise your
hand so I'll be sure to call you up, okay? Great.
Tiet: Uh, my name is Dan T. I signed in earlier. Uh, I own the PIP printing company up-up in
the corner up there and also the building. Moved in-we moved in there in 2007. The city
changes that from CIl to COI so we would fit in and,uh, since 2007, and then with that
COI zoning,no other company has bought a lot. There's been no buildings buildup there
and,uh,this is a part of Iowa City, I think's been underdeveloped for a long time.
Changing zoning,you say one would encourage development but also add a lot of
business to that side of Iowa City. Why leave that area undeveloped?As one of the fust
purchase of a lot in that area,we would approve a zoning change from COI to CIl. That
change would encourage that part of Iowa City to be-to be developed because the
zoning's not changed. This area may sit vacant for years since it has since 2007, and that
is not good for the city or the community. So as one of the fust people up there to buy
one of the lots,we would encourage a zoning change,which I think would be good for
everyone. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome.
Mitchell: Thank you. Mayor Teague and members of the City Council,my name is Dennis
Mitchell. I'm a trust officer at MidWestOne bank. We're trustee of the George Dane
Family Trust and my goal here today is just to focus on a couple of items and hopefully
the, er, documents that we've submitted have made this clear that, er,the land,the 1700s
acres that adjacent to the area to be rezoned will eventually become a park. That part is
not in doubt under Mr. Dane's family trust agreement. There is the ability for certain
family members to live there for a period of time,but that period will likely expire sooner
than later. Other than the current occupant,none of the other family members that would
qualify indicated in interests to live there so we do anticipate this land going being
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donated for a parks sooner than later. The other thing I just wanted to clarify, although
the land is technically donated to the Iowa National Heritage Foundation, condition of
that gift is that the land be made available to the city for a park. So the only reason it
would not be a City of Iowa City Park in the future is if the city declined it for some
reason. So we do not anticipate that happening. Again,we just don't think,you know, one
thing I would respectfully disagree with Susan Craig on is there is-there is a view of this
adjacent property. It's a good view and I think having a more intensive,potentially
commercial use there as opposed to say in an office use is going to impact that park and
the enjoyment of their part going forward. So I'd happy to answer any questions,but
otherwise, I do appreciate your time and consideration.
Teague: Thank you. Welcome and there is a sign-in sheet unless you have a yep. Great. Thank
you. If you put your name in the basket,you're good.
Dane: Good evening. Bob Dane, I've addressed you before. I'm back again. A quick couple of
points from the work session earlier today. The Council was correct and that the city will
never own the park,but neither was it to remain in the family. Dane did this on purpose.
As a trust officer for over 30 years while paying attention to city governments and the
university foundations around him,this was the best way to preserve the Dane family
park. Having a third party MidWestOne in this case,manage this part of his estate and to
transfer- and it's transferred to the Iowa Heritage Trust Foundation,would ensure that the
control of these 17 acres would not be launched as part of a property selling- settlement
in a divorce,nor were these plans for this park be changed by a four-three vote by some
future City Council,where it might be subdivided and the quality forever gone from
public access. It is also true that the Danes are on both sides of this issue. I can
completely understand why my cousins are party to this request. The location,the size of
their acreage is such that the best way to market it is to be part of a larger sale. I would
also point out that sometime in the late '40s or'50s, our grandfather split his businesses
and their farmland between my dad and uncle John. It is true that the majority of the land
related decisions were in concert but that does not mean that all would, should or could
be. One of the best like land for like land that preserve control was the like land- like land
swaps that they did to preserve control of the east of dad's house down over the hill into
what? So that also would be part of the Dane family Park. Thus preventing buildings
rising from the lower farm,blocking the view to the east. If he had anticipated the
expansion of Mormon trek and future zoning issues,he might have done more to the
West. I did approach my cousin's about purchasing the Dane acres. I was told that it was
not possible as they are currently under contract pending the zoning request. This is why
we have been addressing this current adjoining change and the future of a car dealership
upon it. The applicant only builds car dealerships as we have. I added some more stuff
tonight, sorry. And we have for the South and West also opposed when it became a CIl.
A tree buffer, as anticipated by Dane would on the Southwest kind will grow. I spent the
last two summers removing trees along the southeast fence that had grown tall enough to
block the view to the fairgrounds. This will happen with any buffer they had in the future.
Teague: Thank you-thank you. Welcome. Please state your name and city,please.
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Driscoll: Good evening. I'm Jane Driscoll. I live in Iowa City and I am the eldest grandchild of
Georgia and Marjorie Dane. I thought I would start with,what would George say?What
would he say in his own words? Some people would reminisce when he would say four
score and seven years ago,because for 30 years he recited the Gettysburg Address at the
Memorial Day services at Oakland and Memory Gardens cemeteries. But we're not
talking about that today. We are and this is a quote "here to visit with you about a piece
of high ground southwest of the airport and East of Dane road. At some future time, it
will become a city park." From 1999 letter to City Council and I believe the parks and
rec, "It is interesting that we-that there are many laws,rules, and regulations for the
protection of wetlands,historic sites from the past and the habitat of endangered species.
Economic factors tend to preserve and protect from dislocation established commercial
enterprises. But there is little designed to protect and preserve locales from which the
beauty of nature can be observed and enjoyed. Perhaps this is because Iowa has so many
scenic beauty areas. However,these are fast disappearing. There are few in and around
Iowa City where the beauty of our River Valley can still be enjoyed. The beauty of the
landscape is a gift from our Creator. The opportunity to enjoy it was our gift from Harold
and Ethel Dane and they had the foresight to acquire it almost 100 years ago and pass it
on for us to enjoy. That it can still be enjoyed is due to the fact that neither Harold or
Ethel or we have succumbed to the plays of developers. If we were interested in the quick
buck,this would all ready be subdivided and have a bunch of houses on it. It was never-
it never seemed to right that this gift of beauty and the gift of its enjoyment should be
converted to personal economic gain.Not all inheritances have to be in dollars. It seems
to us that the best inheritance we could pass onto our grandchildren and all those who
follow would be the continued opportunity to enjoy this place of beauty. Some of the
concerns we express are more for the benefit of those who will follow in the future and
not for ourselves. We know that the Indians enjoyed this area because of the arrowheads
are-his youngest son picked up in the fields south of the home. We feel a responsibility
to try and preserve and protect these things similar sites on the hills in and around Iowa
city."
Teague: Thank you. Welcome. Please state your name and city,please.
Ballard: Thanks. My name is Steve Ballard. I live in Johnson County. And I'm here with my law
partner,Alp Zora. We- we're with the Leff Law Firm and- and we were asked to help the
George Dane Family Trust explain to the city and put in- information together to explain
why this rezoning request is a bad idea. This is a done deal. This park-this land,this 17.5
acres, is going to be a park. George-you've heard a lot about George Dane. He's a
remarkable man. That-that-that's not why the Council should deny this rezoning request.
His brother,John Dane,was a remarkable man. John's wife,Allegra Dane, was a
remarkable woman. And George's wife,Marjorie,was a remarkable. They were all
remarkable people. They were all supremely dedicated to others in their communities.
You couldn't go to a war memorial, a veterans memorial, any service in Johnson County
since the time I've been here,which is 33 years, and not see John Dane, George Dane,
Bob Dane. So these people are committed to community and to selfless giving to others.
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The point in describing who George Dane was is to explain the care with which he went
about ensuring that this land would be a park. As the son Bob said, George had been
around,he had-he was a trust officer. He had seen foundations, okay?He had seen what
happens when land gets conveyed someplace for a particular purpose and then things
change. And years roll by, and the recipient of that land,whether it's the City of Iowa
City or Johnson County or somebody else says,you know,really,we should not have it
be a park anymore. We should sell it. We should develop it. We should put a fire station
there. Okay?And that's within that owner's right to do, all right? The reason that
organizations such as the Bur Oak Land Trust exist,the reason that such organizations as
the Iowa Natural-Natural Heritage Foundation exist is to create an entity, a thing,that
will be there forever to own this land and make sure it's a park. And fust thing that
George Dane said in his trust is,make it a park forever. And the second thing he said
was, go to Iowa City and find out if Iowa City wants to have a say in developing the park
and managing the park. And the third thing he said was there's income that derives from
this trust and a portion of that income will go to maintain and protect this park. You don't
get a do over, all right? If the Council re-zones and property develops commercial
intensive,he can't take it back. All right? The b- a buffered, a tree buffer just isn't as good
as-
Teague: Thank you.
Ballard: The buffer that we're asking-
Teague: Thank you.
Ballard: That will be there if you deny the rezoning.
Teague: Thank you. All right. Well, thanks to everyone that commented on this item. I am going
to close the public hearing.
2. Consider an Ordinance(First Consideration)
Teague: Can I give a motion to give fust consideration?
Bergus: So moved,Bergus.
Alter: Second,Alter.
Teague: Council discussion.
Taylor: Well, I'll- I'll start then if no one else is going to jump in. Because fust I'd like to thank
the Dane family for the tremendous gift of land. I mean, it's just remarkable that a family
would,uh, do something like this. Uh, and it's just not seen very often. Mr. Dane's vision
for the land was for it to become a park that everyone could enjoy. Parks are a major part
of this city. I commend Parks director,Juli Seydell Johnson, for the work that she does.
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Her plate is full, and that plate is a big plate. That was apparent when I looked,uh, over
the long list of the parks and recreation areas we have in our city. What I saw on this list
is that less than half of our parks have this amount of acreage. And they are not bordered
in any way by intensive commercial zones. When determining adjoining landscape to a
park, consideration should be taken as to what would be compatible with a park, and not
have adjacent neighbors that can potentially contribute to light and noise pollution that
would compromise the peace and tranquility of a park setting. It's been mentioned that
lighting can be downs-uh,made to move downward so that it's not so offensive and
bright. I have to say that I live up to the sou-north of this property less than a mile away
in a lovely neighborhood. Iowa City is very hilly. My home kind of sits up on a hill. I
look out my back door and I can see the bright lights from those car dealerships. I know
that's where it's coming from and it's very bright, still very bright. And that's like a mile
away to the North. So I can't imagine what it would be like in that closer vicinity. Our
strategic plan calls for us as a city to provide high-quality open space for members of our
community. You can't find much more high-quality than this space as has been
mentioned. And it would be a shame to taint this-this beautiful vista with intensive
commercial growth. CO-1 zoning would be more appropriate and compatible, and why I
believe that the current CO-1 zoning should be maintained.
Bergus: There's just a few things that I want to make sure we're focusing on as we have this
discussion,um,because we've heard some really compelling,um, comments and thank
you so much to all the family members and everyone who has such a vested interests in
the property adjacent to the property that we're talking about. So I heard a lot of this land,
this property,this park,will be a park. The land that's proposed to be a park is not in the
city limits and is not the property that we're talking about today. And so there is,you
know, one portion of one side of that proposed park land that abuts the property that
we're talking about today. And then there are much larger portions along the South and
on the Southwest corner that are already zoned to the requested zoning. So I just want to
make sure that we're understanding. We're not talking about taking away a park. We're
not talking about,um,zoning property that would be proposed to be a park into intensive
commercial. We're talking about property that is already zoned commercial and the use of
that land,not the George Dane Trust land. And I think that's really important. And when I
think about that,there's a few different things that come to my mind,which is,um,how,
uh, deliberate I understand George Dane was in his planning and understanding of what
that property that is the 17 some acres,not the 13 acres that we're looking at.Uh,that's up
for rezoning. And I think he understood. And we all need to understand that locking
property into a particular use is done through the mechanisms that he used to do that. So
he owned it and he had a very strategic and intentional plan as to how it would be used in
the future and how it could be conveyed in the future. The property that we're talking
about is not subject to that plan. And I think,you know, it's the phrase that,uh, Sarah
Baron has said to us a few times, it's always in my head,which is property rights and at
property lines. And to the extent that they don't,we have regulations to govern that. So,
uh, a- a neighbor can't cause a nuisance to,uh, an adjoining property owner. We have
regulations relating to that. Um, since the time that George Dane made the plan for- for
his property,which is again, outside the city limits. Um,we also have adopted sensitive
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area ordinance,um,which addresses the use of those areas that might be sensitive slopes
or woodlands, or wetlands. I rode my bike all around this proposed-the land that's
proposed to be rezoned. It is turf grass primarily. It is very far down,you know,the hill
where the cell tower is, that's George Dane's land. Um, and I really believe that the vistas
that everyone has spoken so compellingly to are to the North,towards the airport and
towards the river,um,towards the East, towards downtown,which is Northeast. Um, and
when you- if are on the George Dane property, I'm looking towards this property,what
you see is car dealerships that are already there. I think the other thing about the park and
the impact of the lighting, if it becomes a city park, our parks tend to close at dusk,um,
so there wouldn't be public use after dark that would be infringed by adjoining uses. So
this is not an easy decision. There's obviously a lot of,um, incredible legacy and concern
and care for the area. And I really appreciate the-the family history that we got about,
you know,two brothers who had different-very different ideas about this land. Um,but I
really think that-that having an adjacent property owner along one edge sort of veto a
use,um,that otherwise appears to be fully compliant with our car plan on our zoning
code just wouldn't-wouldn't be the right call.
Teague: Let's jump right out there.
Alter: I have gone back and forth on this. I can't even count how many times,um, and so I've
really sat with this,uh, and I think the real unfortunate thing in my mind,because I came
up at the invitation of the family, got to see all of the land and the-the vistas,the views
are amazing. But it is also true they are up high. And,um, I- I think that when this
becomes a park,those views are going to remain spectacular. Uh, I do agree with
Councilor Bergus that when you look out,um, and I'm so directionally challenged,but
when you look towards the car dealerships,you see the car dealerships,right? I mean,
that's not particularly one of the higher points of the-the park and- and the Dane family
even noted that that would that development that was unfortunate,right?You can still see
an amazing sunset. Um,where I've been trying to work through,um,what the
responsibilities of a Councilor are,um, and how we have to view this. My sense of this
was, if not, what would George do,um, someone spoke to this to say,what were we
thinking when?Right. And I thought I knew that answer. But one of the tough decisions
of being a Councilor as having to waste so many different facets. And I am very mindful
of the fact and appreciate so much the thoughtfulness and the-the expertise that George
Dane um,brought to make sure that this is going to be a park. But as Councilor Bergus'
says, also,we're not talking about the land that will become a park. It is the land that's a
budding it. And it is a sliver um,that is not zoned consistently with the rest of the land
that is also lower in it's um, on the hill. And so I think I have a different answer than I
thought I would have to. What-what-what-what's the answer to what wa- was Council
thinking 20 years from now? That question. And I think it is that we need to balance a lot
of different considerations, and um,rezoning it creates more flexibility for opportunities
for development that I- I would hope in honestly, do not become a car dealership. I
realized that's who owns it. Um,but I was thinking, God,how-how amazing would it be?
It's zoned um, if rezoned, it could be for restaurants and other businesses that would
actually be really nice attraction for a park-next to a park.Now I don't know that that's
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going to be the case. But looking at all of the criteria of what we can go buy to make a
decision that's not just about,unfortunately,how do we feel about this,but what are we
compelled to use as our um,metrics for making a decision? It hurts me,but I have to go
with rezoning it.
Harmsen: I also want to,uh,thank the members of the Dane family,uh, for the kind invitation to
come out and see the property,uh, and it was able to,uh,make that happen on a- on a
beautiful uh, sunny afternoon. And I'm not one of the ones where we were getting winter
2.0. So that was a nice bonus. Uh, it is a beautiful property and there is a beautiful view
there. Uh, I know when we were standing out there close to the apple orchard, I believe it
was,which is just not too far away from the cell tower,uh, and looking out. And if you
look straight to the north,uh,you can see,uh,that they aren't-they aren't kidding. You
can see the,uh,the straight to the north. You can see things like the,uh, children's
hospitals, some of the hospital complex. Looking off to the right,um, I think the,you
know-you know,we can see that general direction of,you know, some of the city laid
out um, off to the east. Um there was that nice hill coming down towards that sort of
wooded area and some of the John Dane farmland. Um, and we could even see the tops
of the buildings from the Johnson County Fairgrounds. But one of the things that have-
have-have to-have to point out notice that all of those things are not the direction of this
proposed property change,um,which is one of the things that sort of one of the many
things that jump out at me,um, and is you know, a-the fact this is going to be a park
someday is great. The fact that it's going to be um,preserved for that is an amazing
testament to George Dane and his foresight and planning,um, and to his family who
every single one of them who I spoke with is,uh, 100% on board and adamant of making
this into what George Dane wanted to have I- didn't have the privilege of meeting
George,but clearly he made an impression uh, on many-many people, friends and family
alike. And- and that speaks so well. Uh,but looking at this, one of the things too, and I
believe Councilor Bergus' mentioned this and Councilor Alter too was just looking at the
existing property and what's around it. And looking at for the proposed property,the-
we're talking about changing has about- about 200 feet or so of that is the boundary that
shares with the uh, George Dane property. Um, at the same time, there's already this
intensive,uh,the Cl one zoning is- is around 1,500 feet of already shared border. Um,
what- in terms of what the border and what's bordering and right next to and neighboring
um, it's a small fraction compared to what's already there. Um, and the fact that they're
really the best views the airport the- looking at the City High is actually not in that
direction. Um, standing there by that apple orchard and looking out over the proposed
change property?Um,no,those fields on- on- on prairie, I don't know if they are prairie-
prairie,but they're grass a turf grass I think uh, somebody called it. And then the-the
view that way is that direction is existing car lots,uh,highway one,the traffic there and
the commercial areas um,that are across the highway. So the McDonald's and um I don't
know some of the other businesses that are already there. So I- I think I- I'm going to
have to find myself sort of,uh, coming down on the side of a- a- a Council members
Burger snf Alter um,that when I weigh all of this together, it's very- it's very tough
decision. Um, it's one that I've also spent a lot of time with. Um,but I also see that it's
sort of,uh, so that was the- the amount of the boundary on the fact that these things were
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zoned originally CI-1, and they changed only to make um, accommodations for PIP
printings because of the way the zoning classifications were broken out at that time. Um,
so I will probably,uh,have to vote that way as well,but not an easy decision and not one
that I took lightly.
Thomas: Usually on land use issues. I'm among the fust,but I did want to listen to some of the-
the comments that I've-have heard tonight, as well as from those of you who presented to
us and with your-with your comments. You know, I certainly support the vision of the
park,um,beautiful high ground. I toured the property and the fact that George Dane and
family have elected to preserve that and- and open space was a- a grand gesture. Um,
what I've been concerned with is- and I think the-the whole question is of the zoning,the
Cl versus the- CI-1 versus the commercial office, it does seem to me a bit of a-you
know, it's- it's a concentration of commercial development. Uh,the intention behind the
CI-1 zone was to try to better diversify what the options might be in part due to the fact
that the commercial office didn't seem to be moving. And,um,with that CI-1 zoning and
looking at the language and the-the zoning code, it did refer to the fact that special
attention must be directed toward buffering the negative aspects of allowed uses from
adjacent residential zones and I would include on- in that regard public space. And then
looking at the history of the rezoning in this general area,what I saw consistently was the
emphasis on the use of visual buffers to begin to mitigate the negative impacts on- on the
name property in this case. Uh,there is also concerned about the impacts of the buffers
on Mormon Trek itself which is a major corridor through the area. But-but in our instance
here it's about the-the future park. And what I'm concerned about is that,uh,with the
way this is being,uh, submitted to the Council is that we're-we're,uh, doing this
rezoning and the abstracts so to speak. We're not seeing a specific project associated with
the rezoning. And so with that being the case the- it's extremely difficult to understand
how we would,um,use buffering to address any negative impacts because we don't have
a project. Uh, and so,you know, a tool we would have the buffering. It's-it's very difficult
to predict how one would,um, as a condition on this rezoning try to identify or articulate
what that buffering would be. So what I've-what I would like to suggest to the Council is
considering how we might,uh, incorporate the question of how-how to,uh,not simply
leave this as an administrative process. I'm- I'm really interested in maintaining a sense of
public engagement,uh,through this effort. And so what I-what I would like to suggest to
the Council to consider would be as a condition on this rezoning,which as I understand it
right now there are no conditions would be that,we would,uh,require that a site plan,
um, showing- depicting the proposal whatever that might be,would require the-the
review and approval of the Planning and Zoning commission and the City Council,uh,
because it's really as I said, it's- it's an abstract rezoning as we're doing without a project
attached to it,um,makes articulating as a condition the buffering element is- is extremely
difficult. Um, but it- I'm-I'm hoping that in this way with staffs involvement at the,um,
administrative level and then further public review,uh, subsequent to that,uh,that we
would continue to engage the-the public,uh, in this process and also have,uh, an
opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the buffer as proposed by staff. So that would
be my suggestion as we-we consider doing a- a condition on this project,uh, so that we-
we address the fact that there is no project associated with the rezoning right now. Uh, I,
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you know, I've been around. Mike Hench talked about in the work session,how long he's
been around. I've been around for awhile too. Uh, I was on Planning and Zoning,uh,
when the bill- a billion dollar-billion dollar,uh, show- a showroom,uh,was developed.
You know we saw where it was initially proposed in the slides and then it was, er,
eventually relocated in the current location. That went through rezoning with conditions.
We saw the site plan just as we saw the site plan for its original location. We don't have
that opportunity with this rezoning. So I'm- I'm asking Council to see if we couldn't
incorporate it either as a condition. Uh,having that opportunity to see a plan- a site plan
developed,uh, after staff has gone through the administrative review.
Teague: I wonder if our city attorney could address that and I want to make sure that,um, I
understand your proposal. You're proposing that if this is approved- approval with the
condition,uh,to require a- a site plan,that would show the proposal. So if I can have the
city attorney.
Goers: Certainly,uh, Councilor Thomas did speak to me shortly before the,uh,work session
about this possibility and we had some discussion. And,uh,my answer to him was that
probably the best vehicle for that is of course the site plan itself which includes,uh,
codified standards for screening for dumpsters and storage and loading and unloading
areas and traffic circulation. It's-it's a pretty comprehensive ordinance with requirements
and so forth. Uh, and I think that that's probably why I told Councilor Thomas and I
remain,uh, of the belief that that's the best vehicle for that. Uh, of course, Councilor
Thomas is suggesting that,uh, or proposing that that'd be approved not just at the
administrative level,but at the,uh, at Planning &Zoning, and,uh, Council level. Uh,
currently the code,uh, differentiates between minor site plans and major site plans. Uh,
any site plan with more than 12 residential units obviously not applicable here,uh, or
more than 10,000 square feet of commercial space would require a major site plan
review. Uh, if either the,uh,neighborhood development services director or owners of
20% of the property within 200 feet of the rezoned property were to,uh,request it,then
planning and zoning,uh, approval would be required for the site plan. Uh,my answer to
Councilor Thomas was that there was probably a way we could make that work. That is
that,uh,we could probably impose a condition,uh, such as requiring Planning and
Zoning and,um, Council approval for the site plan. Uh,my hesitations are- are several
fold. One is that normally any conditions for the conditional zoning agreement are
included in the,uh, conditional zoning agreement,uh,which needs to be signed before
the conclusion of the public hearing. Uh,that hearing is now closed. Um, I apologize to
Councilor Thomas that I did not think of the timing of when he would raise this issue
with Council. Um, that said,uh, certainly our office would do its best to impose that
requirement if it is the will of the majority of Council members. And if we're not able to
do that on a strict base, is certainly the sense of Council could be passed on to,uh, staff as
they do their administrative review and/or you could suggest strongly that the
Neighborhood Development Services Director,uh,would request the,uh,major site plan
review, as I mentioned before. Um, I think that's probably the options that are available to
us. The only other hesitation I have aboutuh, doing it in that fashion is presently this is a
requested rezoning,uh,that does not have a project attached. Uh,there are a number of
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the surrounding properties to the South and South East don't have a project attached
either. They're-they're already its own CI-1 that-that happens all the time. Uh, it doesn't
have to be the case that there's a specific project that's brought forth. I think it would be
inappropriate for this Council to do anything to suggest that a rezoning cannot and will
not move forward for this property unless there's a specific project put forth. And so my
hesitation is I'm not sure when-,um,when Planning and Zoning or when Council would,
uh,reconsider their zoning or unless maybe I'm misunderstanding. The idea is we would
go ahead and approve the zoning tonight, subject to that requirement. Then as I-then I'm
back to my earlier answer, our office would do the best we could to impose that
requirement at this point and- and certainly take the sense of Council with us,uh,to the
administrative level.
Alter: When you say what you just said,um.
Goers: There's a lot, I'm sorry.
Alter: With the sentiment-no thank you. Um,with the sense that staff would carry out their
administrative work with the understanding or with the strong sentiment of Council that
this is the type that we would like to see.
Goers: Sure.
Alter: Does that mean at some point then it would go through P&FZ and back to Council or is it
simply the staff now understands that Council strongly prefers that as much as possible
these-these-these additional the-the the site plan would be desired?
Goers: Well, of course,the site plan doesn't come forth until there's an actual project.
Alter: Right-right-right.
Goers: And- and so presumably at that point when there's an actual project before you,the site
plan would be developed and it would go uh,you know through the normal
administrative procedures. But again, if the sense of Council is that you wish to make
sure that neighborhood development services imposes a major site plan review standards
that would then require that the site plan go through Planning and Zoning. It would still
not go through Council to be clear but yeah.
Alter: Right. Okay. Thank you.
Bergus: Do I understand correctly,Eric that there's some discretion as far as the major site plan
review and triggering that on staffs part or it's only with that square footage threshold for
a commercial?
Goers: Well, there's two things. So the weather, it's a major or minor site plan,there's-there's not
discretion there. It's either at least 12 residential units or at least 10,000 squire feet of uh,
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commercial space. But from there, let's assume it makes that threshold and now it's a
major site plan. From there,there is discretion,the discretion is twofold. One, discretion
on the part of the Neighborhood Development Services Director who can just say yay or
nay, I think it should go to planning and zoning. And the second part, of course, is the
kind of objection petition if you will, that if uh,neighborhoods who own at least 20% of
the property within 200 feet,they can require it by bringing forth the petition.
Bergus: Okay,thank you for that clarification.
Goers: Sure.
Dunn: Question for you,what constitutes commercial space, if this were to be whatever
conditionally or however we're going to-we might go about this?What constitutes that in
the case of uh, like it's- it's a car lot or something like that?Would the lot itself be, is it
the whole footprint of the building? Is it what's inside?
Goers:No, I believe it's the footprint of the building. And to be clear, it's currently zoned
commercial and we're rezoning applications for a different flavor of commercials. I mean,
whatever is gonna be built there is gonna be commercial. It's just uh,how many square
feet of commercial space,not the lot area. The build space.
Dunn: Sure, sure.
Fruin: I might suggest if the Council is gonna go down this path,this is- this-this would be
unusual. I understand what-what is trying to be accomplished here,but the site plan
review is a fairly technical process that you're doing the policy work here and then the
site plan review is more on the technical side um. If you'd like staff, I could put Danielle
on the spot and talk about how we review site plans and the types of things that we look
for. Because what I don't want to happen is for you to go down this path and not exactly
know what that site plan review is going to look like for either you or the planning and
zoning commission,because when that's presented to you,you're going to have those
same technical standards to review it again. So I don't want to create a false you know
idea of what that site plan review might look like, so we'll only do it if you want it,but
we-we can have staff talk to you about site plan reviews and what that looks like if it
would be helpful for you.
Sitzman: Thank you, Geoff. Danielle Sitzman,Neighborhood and Development Services
Coordinator. Um, so in the previous presentation, I did walk through what site
development standards are regulated and are included in Chapter 5.
Goers: Well, yeah, a title 183-3-2 design standards.
Sitzman: Sure. And those include off-street parking. So the design and configuration of off-street
parking. The sign code is actually part of site development standards. Access
management is regulated by those standards. So that would be where access to the site is
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allowed to offer public streets, so driveways. Intersection visibility. So making sure that
uh, intersections of streets are clear of obstructions so that traffic flow is safe.
Landscaping and trees, screening and buffering which is accomplished both through
landscape and hardscape materials. So there are different degrees of screening and
buffering required based on different um, features of the site. They're not linked to the
zoning district,they're linked directly to the use of the site proposed,um, and that would
be in a spectrum of um, lower growing shrubs uh,with more capacity to uh higher
growing shrubs with less uh,views through them to even use of walls um, above a certain
height to screen undesirable views of those features of the site. Typically those are
vehicles and some view-screening views of vehicles from pedestrians and the public way.
But it also um, does come into play when there's storage of outdoor materials. Outdoor
lighting is another standard in the site development standards that is broken out
somewhat in our code by zoning districts. So it's a slightly different number of um,
lumens, allowed per acre, I believe as a unit of measurement used in that section. Uh,
there's some performance standards which are mostly about industrial uses. Some
vibration,noise, odors,things that might be uh,negative byproducts of industrial process,
then are sensitive areas ordinance as part of our site development standards. So all of
those features like stream corridors,um, floodplains,wetlands,prairie remnants, steep
slopes are regulated through the sensitive various review. Floodplain management and all
of the things that go with that are also insight development standards and then uh,
requirements for neighborhood open space are- are included in that section. Those
sections are very prescriptive, so we are given as staff the direction as the imposition of
that code and what to enforce. And when we get a site plan review,we go through each
and every one of those things very meticulously and make sure that the site plans are in
conformance with that. It's not uncommon for a site plan to go through multiple rounds of
reviews to make sure that the design of those things are fully in compliance with our
code. So that's conducted by urban planning staff. Um, it's a rotating duty so any one of
my staff might be given a side plan at some point to review. So that's how that works.
Goers: One point I would add is again,because there's no project presently before you and I'm
not sure when one would come,um, if Council were to approve this, is that those
standards that uh,Danielle just mentioned and so forth, as I mentioned are codified and
so forth. And if the Council was of the belief that those standards are uh, insufficient in-
in any way,uh, as Danielle mentioned that they already addressed exterior lighting and
some of the language they mentioned is that they want to be able to maintain adequate
security while preventing a nuisance or hardship to adjacent properties or streets. Staff is
already thinking about those things in addition to screening for equipment and storage
and loading and parking and transportation and so forth. If Council was of the belief that
there should be uh, different standards for site plan review uh, or a different site plan
designs,uh, Council can change it uh,you know by going through the normal ordinance
amendment process and could likely do so well ahead of any project, if that's Council's
desire.
Alter: This has been tremendous information. Uh, I guess I would just put this out, sorry thanks,
to my fellow Councilors that um, it sounds and I appreciated hearing that these-these are
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very prescriptive in actuality. And staff who has been trained on doing this to look for it
uh,would be whoever's up on the rotation would go through that and that there's multiple
like you said, oftentimes there's multiple uh, iterations of doing this. Um,my general
concern to the rest of Council would be,uh,while Eric said that we could change it if we
felt that we needed to-the rabbit hole or a rabbit warren,that getting into this kind of
work when we're not trained to do it does concern me. I think it can be done with the best
of intentions and I think that you know we're here to oversee you know what-how are we
going to be best stewards of policy and of the city in general. But if our intention is to
really roll up our sleeves and get involved in changing things,that's where I'm a little bit,
like I think it would make sense if it was in a very focused way for a very particular
project that we don't know yet. And that it would also be in relation to understanding
what's the best way to um,have whatever project would come before us in relation to this
park. To do it simply because we think that we know better would be problematic. So I'm
just sort of throwing that out there.
Thomas: Well, one- one thing I would say is that you know Eric mentioned I did speak with
them before our meeting, and um,you know when Danielle just gave it a fairly thorough
description of the type of review. Uh, one of the concerns I have is with this project in
addition to the fact that we-the buffer is- is still a concern to me is that the type of buffer
that may be appropriate here um,would-would need to reflect the more rural scale of this
setting and that as she described them,the you know some of the buffering elements that-
that we typically review are more of an urban nature not-not so much a setting where
you're talking about a different scale of environment and a different set of issues that
you're facing in terms of, in this case,preserving and buffering-buffering negative
impacts and promoting and preserving the view shed that you have there. So it's a
different-it's kind of a different context in which to understand buffering. So I do think
there would be, as Eric said, a kind of an opportunity here uh,to at least evaluate our- our
uh,you know site review process uh,to anticipating that there are situations where this
kind of sit-these sorts of issues will come up and that our current standards uh,may not
address them effectively.
Bergus: There's one piece about this location that I also just want to make sure we're thinking
about,which is it's so close to the intersection of Highway 1 and 218 and like it's really
on the interchange. And I- I- I appreciate what you're saying about the difference in like
the rural versus urban but I- I think we've really committed a very long time ago to this
being commercial property at a very heavily trafficked interchange, and then the
investment of pushing Mormon track and then McAllister threw us for the purpose of
development. And I- I think it's- it's- I just worry that we're gonna nitpick to the point that
real estate never develops. And we have to- I mean, I think that's kind of what we're-
we're seeing with that CO zone. If we're unwilling to make it more flexible and I just- I
want us to be real in the context of our budget discussion last meeting about our revenue
challenges, and that I just-yeah, I- I think- I think it's I don't want us to go down the path
of dis-incentivizing development because of that adjacent use when we have mechanisms
to address that interface.
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Teague: I wanted to allow Councilor Thomas to go fust before me because I knew that this
question was gonna,uh, come up about the rezoning,um, or this you know thought
process that I just mentioned. And so fust I wanted to say to,um, the family that allowed
us to come,Mayor Pro Tem and I,uh, to the property and see it was- er, it's absolutely
gorgeous,um,to be on the land to look across it in every direction was phenomenal. Um,
excited to you know further discussions about this being a park. Beautiful and I don't
wanna take that away and thanks to George Dane and what he thought would be great for
the Iowa City community. I- I have to say that he had-he hit the-he hit the nail on the
head with this location as one of a kind. I've heard all of my Councilor- fellow
Councilors,uh,talk about this, I think the biggest challenge,um,that I've had throughout
this-throughout this process is being all that land and looking all around and not knowing
exactly what a proposal is for this- for this property. Um, and I looked at the-um,you
know I look at the CA-1 and as well as the CO-1,what is permitted when these special
exceptions and all of that. But when I do walk away and I look at you know where the-
what's surrounding this property which is let's CI-1,um, I- I have to agree with some of
the other Councilors begrudgingly,um,that this is you know something that is a part of
our comp plan, it makes sense,um, for this to be CI-1. What is that buffering going to be?
You know that still has to be determined. I know through the site plan,um,that a staff is
skilled to do that working. And so but begrudgingly, I do support this,um,because of the
facts of our comp planned in our zoning ordinance. And I think when we're talking about
what is the-you know the big scope here when we're-this park is going to be closed after
dusk,you know some of the light and concerns, I hear that, I understand that but I'm
going to vote for this. And I do want to say thanks to all of the family members and all of
the supporters that came out to express your concern and your thoughts. I did hear you
and I do understand the love. I get it, I get the love for this property and to all the people
that reached out,that show that the name family has really made a mark on this
community and I think that this park,when it does become a park that love and that
vision that George Dane had will definitely live on and be enjoyed by every member of
this community.
Dunn: I think I'll just close out my comments. I don't want to beat a dead horse or say anything
that's already been said. I'm acknowledging the fact that we have a tremendous
opportunity here in our community,uh, for- for a public park is something that I don't
really,uh,take-take lightly. Uh, I have visited,uh,the property, I've spoken with the-
with the Danes on both sides of this issue,um, and I'm also counting the votes here. I
waited until the end,uh,to try to figure out where the Council would go,uh,on the issue,
um, and I find myself in the position where,um, I do support,uh,more public process,
uh, in this decision. More so what Councilor Thomas is- is proposing being that we at this
point cannot if I'm understanding this correctly you know impose conditions on the
rezoning at this point. Um, I think that there is a vested public interest in being able to
have some conditions on- on this particular property that we're looking at not the,um,
future park property but the one that we're actually rezoning. I think that there is a public
interest,um, given what I see as an eventuality in- in this case. Um, so I would- I would
support,um,that kind of public input process that Councilor Thomas is proposing. Um, I
think it makes sense given the extremely unique situation and difficult decision that we're
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presented with today,um, as well as the fact that there are four votes to rezone. So we
should do something that er, gets us the best situation for everyone. That's I think
ultimately,um, our collective goal in our charge here. So my personal advocacy is if we
can include more public process,um, in a potential project proposal,um, as- as Councilor
Thomas is- is discussing.
Teague: And I think if I understood it correctly,we've already passed the point of,um,requiring
a condition,but,uh, our attorney could correct me. We can,um, stay to our staff to
express our overall intentions for this property,um, and that'd be relayed to the
developers. So and personally, I think that that's been delayed to the developers right
now. But- so if you're- I don't know how Councilor Thomas envisioned at this point for
the condition to be done. I guess,the legal way that will be for this to be voted down and
for this the-the P&Z process to start over again.
Goers: Let me interject here for just a moment. Er,the hesitancy would have with the Council
voting down the rezoning,which of course Council can do if it's Council's wish. But,um,
the,uh,property owners couldn't- could not then come back with a similar, er,
substantially similar rezoning request. Um,because Council has already said no and they
can't just kinda keep taking additional bites at the apple.Now obviously,they could,you
know,request a different zoning I'm not sure what the zoning that would be. They could,
um,you know, do some other things but-but not many other things. So if Council were to
vote no now that would probably be it for,uh,taking this back to,uh, CI-1 zoning.
Dunn: I guess,then I prefer a little bit stronger language would,will be okay with directing
rather than suggesting.
Goers: You're talking about directing,uh, staff in this case a neighborhood development
services,uh, director to, ah,make go through the requirements of a major site plan review
and taking it to if- if it is a major site plan,uh,to go to,uh,planning and zoning for
approval?
Dunn: Yes.
Goers: Sure.
Fruin: One thing I'd urge you to keep in mind is your rezoning that the rezoning request is 13
acres. Um,we don't necessarily how this,know how this property may be subdivided
down the road and you want to have those same requirements on properties that may be
fronting Mormon trek, for example or North-North of Grace drive,um.
Bergus: Can- can staff just let us know if it is subdivided what the process would be as far as any
additional review, like at the plating stage?
Sitzman: Sorry, it was the question what's the remaining development process for this land?
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Bergus: If it was subdivided? Since I know there's a number of lots already on the two.
Sitzman: So if it were to be re-subdivided the only time it would go through a preliminary plat
again which includes the public hearing and would come through P&Z to City Council
would be if there's a major difference in what was previously pre-preliminary plotted and
we have another agenda item later tonight where that is the case,um,they're adding
public streets in that instance and so we needed them to go back through the process so
the acceptance of public streets would be acknowledged as part of the intention for
development. In this case it's already,uh, a number of commercial lots already served by
a street network that's built. So I can't imagine much of a change in a planning process
that would necessarily trigger that preliminary plat step. Likely, it would just be re-
subdivision of something that's already subdivided in that follows the final plat process
which is just a technical review and,um,paperwork necessary for that for subdividing
agreements that is typically on a consent agenda does not go to planning and zoning
commission.
Bergus: Thank you.
Harmsen: Would it work just to say anything that would be along Dane Road Southeast from
Eagle View Drive to Grace Drive and just would that be a simple way to just whether it's
subdivided or stays the same.
Goers: I'm sorry I'm-I'm not sure I understand the premise. I understand the area you're
describing. But,
Harmsen: Okay, if the, if I- if I'm looking- I'm looking now at the Johnson County map there,
um,there is Dane Road Southeast which runs from Eagle View Drive,uh,to Grace Drive
which is essentially the Eastern border of the property that's requesting the zoning
change,um, if we were to do some- something like what Councilor Dunn has proposed to
direct staff for anything that's any development that's on that road whether it's a
subdivided into two pieces are all the same piece. As we get further over the other side of
Grace drive right next to PIP printing that's even further away from the property and so I
would be probably less. I mean, and so if we're just trying to figure it out how do we
handle this in case they subdivide later if we were just to say Dane road- along Dane
road.
Thomas; That's the principle frontage.
Harmsen: The principal frontage with the-the-the shares at 200 feet with the George Dane
property? That's my thought. I don't know if that gets us- if that's a simple solution or not.
Goers: And that would be the property that would go through that planning zoning and
[OVERLAPPING].
Harmsen: The master review.
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Goers: Got it.
Harmsen: Or site planner. Does that make sense?
Goers: It certainly we could do that if that's the will of Council. The only hesitation I have about
that is that might rely somewhat on institutional memory. So if- if this development
comes nine years from now and,you know,we don't remember apologies in advance uh
but of course a lot of other things would probably happen between now and then too,but,
uh,will certainly do our best.
Harmsen: I mean, I'd be okay with that direction being given?Just my opinion.
Dunn: Yeah.
Bergus: Can someone clarify what that direction would be?
Goers: Well, let me see if I can recap and see correct me if I'm wrong. The indication is if there's,
uh, a property that comes forth for a site plan review and it borders Dane Road Southeast,
uh,that the,uh, and it's a major site plan that the neighborhood,uh, Services Director,uh,
Neighborhood Development Services Director would request the planning and zoning
approval per her authority. Doing I see some quizzical looks maybe I didn't get that quite
right.
Harmsen: I think that's.
Goers: Oh I did [OVERLAPPING]
Thomas: I think that's right.
Harmsen: I think that's right yeah.
Bergus: They're like implications if this is forgotten or doesn't happen. I mean, it just I'm kind of
uncomfortable with the idea that we're saying,hey you know-
Goers: Let me. [OVERLAPPING]
Bergus: -Danielle doesn't do this then.
Goers: Understood. Let me be clear.
Alter: [INAUDIBLE] we do this all over again.
Goers: Tracy Hightshoe is the.
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Bergus: Thank you. [OVERLAPPING]
Goers: is in Development Services so it'd be she and not,uh,Danielle who is in trouble. To be
clear that we're talking about a sense of the Council. We're not talking about,uh,you
know an explicit conditional zoning agreement that's going to be enforceable down the
road and so forth you just have to trust staff that-that we're going to do what you ask us
because that's our job we-we do what you ask us to do.
Begus: I believe that is your job whether we direct you explicitly or not.
Goers: Correct,that's my point.
Bergus: I'm- I'm comfortable either way because I don't think it makes a practical difference.
Goers: Yeah-yeah.
Teague: All right so are we ready for votes or do you need something?
Goers: Well, no,just I'm- I'm sensing at least four people who are in support of this idea, I pause
to make sure that I see enough,yes. So,yeah,that's all we need for that part of it and now
I think we're back to the underlying vote for and the rezoning.
Teague: All right. We're gonna go ahead and do roll-call,please. (Roll Call) Motion passes 6 -
1. Can I get a motion to accept correspondence?
Dunn: So moved,Dunn.
Harmsen: Second,Harmsen.
Teague: All in favor say aye. [Voice Vote] Aye. Any oppose?Motion passes. 7 - 0.
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9.c Preliminary Plat—Western Home GPD of Iowa City - Resolution approving
the preliminary plat of the Western Home GPD of Iowa City,a Resubdivision of
Oudot A of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church—Part One,Iowa City,Iowa.
Teague: Item 9.c,Preliminary Plat Western home, GBD- GPD of Iowa City resolution approving
the preliminary plat of the Western home GPD of Iowa City, a resubdivision of Outlot A
of St. Andrew Presbyterian Church part 1 Iowa City, Iowa. Can I get a motion to
approve,please?
Alter: So moved,Alter.
Taylor: Second, Taylor.
Teague: And welcome,Danielle, once again.
Goers: If I can just interject real quickly. Previously, I've recused myself from,uh,these matters
because our church was in the process of selling, ah, one of these slots. We have now
closed on that lot and I don't believe I'm conflicted any longer. Thank you.
Teague: Thank you.
Sitzman: Thank you,Mayor Danielle, system and neighborhood development services. As
you've indicated this as a preliminary plat, ah, application tonight before you for, ah, land
shown here in the white outline. This is for, um,the rezoning. I'm sorry,not a reason,this
is a platting area to include 35 single-family homes,nine or eight duplexes, 30
multifamily units, 2010 home-style units, one- and one Assisted Living Building with
approximately 32 beds. Also included in the proposal,uh,reviewed at rezoning was a
neighborhood commercial use. Um,the subject property,um,this is the preliminary plat
for the subject property. What you might recall seeing previously as part of the rezoning,
which included a planned development overlay was the overlay showing the-the housing
units. It's nicely color-coded here. So I- I wanted to show this just to remind you of the
variety of housing types propo-proposed. This is the plat that, uh, fulfills that, ah,plan by
drawing the lot lines. There are three lots essentially in this development to incorporate
all of those housing types. Lot 1 is inside the loop. It's approximately seven acres,
includes single-family duplex, and multifamily which-with that neighborhood
commercial component. Lot 2 is above the loop. It's about 15.5 acres and it includes
single-family and multifamily. Lot 3 is the Southwest corner here. It's,uh, four acres and
includes townhomes and assisted living and memory care. Then there is an outlot,um,
Outlot Z which contains a turnaround culdesac for that loop street system. It does show
that street network as well. That street network will be public streets. When we review
preliminary plats we have a series of criteria that we review, including compliance with
the comprehensive plan, although that was done. Also at rezoning compliance with any
conditions that replaced it,that rezoning and compliance with all of the subdivision code
regulations that are applicable. So as I mentioned, comprehensive plan was already
evaluated at rezoning. It's the proposed development is in compliance with the
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comprehensive plan. When looking at the conditional zoning agreement, oftentimes
conditions are to be fulfilled in the future and so not necessarily would be satisfied at the
time of preliminary plat, and is the case here. There's some fees to be paid which will
need to be satisfied before the issuance of building permits. Also, a condition that needs
to be satisfied with the final plat. So we will continue to monitor and ensure that those are
performed as necessary. So otherwise,the preliminary plat meets the applicable
requirements at this time. We also review, as I said, a variety of the subdivision standards
that apply to the property,the preliminary plat does substantially match the previously
reviewed and approved preliminary plan development overlay that I showed you with the
color-coding and preliminary sensitive areas development plan,which is-was also
reviewed. The preliminary plat does satisfy the necessary subdivision design standards of
Chapter 15 of the City's Code. So this slide shows you where we're at in the development
process overall. The step that we're at is highlighted in blue. So the previous rezoning
was performed. This is the preliminary plat that comes to you through the Planning and
Zoning Commission. There would be a necessary final plat to be filed. Usually, again,
only come to City Council at consent. And then staff takes over for site plan reviews and
review of the final sensitive areas development plans, add site plan, and then the
issuances,building permits, and compliance with the building code. So based on a review
of the relevant criteria in subdivision code, staff did recommend approval of this
preliminary plat with new additional conditions. At their April 5, 2023 meeting,the
Planning and Zoning Commission concurred with staffs opinion and voted 7 - 0 to also
recommend approval. I'm happy to answer questions.
Teague: Seeing no questions. Thank you. Will the developers or the applicant,uh, like to give
any comments?Hello,welcome.
Long: Hello, Steve Long Iowa City with Salida Partners representing Western Home
Independent Living Services from Cedar Falls. We've been working on this,uh,year-
year-and-a-half. I can't remember now. We're excited to bring this community,uh, as- as
Danielle said, a mixed-use community to Iowa City. I've been involved with Western
Home most of my life having grown up in Cedar Falls despite being an Iowa City for a
long time now, don't say how many years. But Mike Welch's here from Welch
Development design Civil Engineer, if you have any specific questions. And I also
apologize Chris Hansen and Pat O'Leary from Western Home were here for about a little
over two hours with us in the lobby,but they ended up heading back to Cedar Falls. So
still open for any questions.
Teague: Great. Seeing none. All right. Anyone from the public would like to address this topic?
Seeing no one in person or online Council discussion.
Dunn: I just want to reiterate that I'm really excited for this project. Uh, I think it's going to bring
a lot,uh,to the community and,uh,really provide an excellent service to our seniors.
Thomas: You know I would concur. I- I often speak about projects that I think or I hope will
serve as a model, and I do think this is pointing,you know, in that direction in terms of if
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we're thinking about, ah, diversity of housing types, site plans that do create a sort of-
have a coherence to them. Uh, create in this case around the-what it looks like to be the,
um,what-you know,the water feature there that's storm water retention actually
becomes a focal feature within the-within the development. Um, I think this one will-
will certainly be successful and I- again, I hope it will help inform how we site plan for
similar projects in the future.
Taylor: I agree with our Councilor Thomas and Dunn. I'm also very excited to see this area
develop. Uh,the area for this development contains many sensitive features,uh,
wetlands,woodlands, stream corridor, and regulated slopes and,uh, certainly must have
posed to a challenge to navigate those areas, ah,while balancing construction plans and at
the same time conserving the habitat,uh, so I commend you for that because it looks like
you really took that to great thought,uh, as much as you possibly could. Uh, and with its
mix of- of housing as,uh, Councilor Thomas sort of mentioned,the different housing
types and uses. Uh, it,uh, comes close to the missing middle,uh,that concept that some
of us on Council have been talking about for quite some time,but have yet to see really a
development that-that reflects that. Um, so if this are- if this area, sorry, can be
developed with minimal disruption,uh, of the habitat and the sensitive areas,then I'm-
I'm all in favor of it.
Teague: Roll call,please. (Roll Call) Motion passes 7 - 0.
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9.d Preliminary Plat Melrose Commercial Park -Resolution Approving
Preliminary Plat of Melrose Commercial Park Subdivision Iowa City,Iowa (SUB23-
0002).
Teague: Item 9.d,Preliminary Plat Melrose Commercial Park, whereas the illusion of proven
preliminary plat of marrows commercial park subdivision, Iowa City, Iowa. Can I get a
motion to approve,please?
Dunn: So moved,Dunn.
Bergus: Second,Bergus.
Teague: And welcome again,Danielle.
Danielle: Thank you again,Mayor. This is,um, approval of,uh, another preliminary plat. The
City Council approved a final plat in 2021 for the subject property under a different title.
At that point it was called IWV Commercial Park, which divided the site into two lots.
Since the approval of the final plat,the owner has chosen to re-subdivide the property in
order to incorporate public streets and a total of eight commercial lots. The replant now
includes those public streets and therefore,must go,was required to go back through the
process of a preliminary plat, and including the public comment at pla-Planning and
Zoning Commission. Just wanted to show here on the lower part of the screen the
previous plat which shows those two lots.Now showing on the top of the screen the
streets network and the eight lots proposed. Um,not a great deal of change other than to
incorporate those features anticipating still commercial development in this area. Again,
the criteria that we review as part of a preliminary plan includes compliance with
comprehensive plan which would have been considered at re-zoning as well, compliance
with any conditions placed at that re-zoning and compliance with the subdivision code.
So this property was found to be-the use found to be in compliance with a
comprehensive plan at the time of re-zoning and continues to be considered,ah,
compliant with a comprehensive plan. There were conditions placed on this property with
the conditional zoning agreement at the time of that re-zoning. Again,not all the
conditions need to be satisfied at this time so we've evaluated which ones are still
pending and we'll track those. One of the conditions that has been satisfied and so it's
noted here as well. So the preliminary plat meets the applicable required conditions and
post it the zoning as our relevant at this time. And again,we review the subdivision code
requirements when looking at plats for a proposed plats that will be fulfilled eventually
with the final plat. Their preliminary plat substantially matches the previously reviewed
and approved plan development overlay and preliminary sensitive areas development
plan,which reviewed at re-zoning. And the preliminary-preliminary plat seatify- satisfies
a necessary subdivision design standards of chapter 15. Again,this slide shows the
previous development steps. We're kind of redoing some of those last steps with the re-
planning. So we're doing a preliminary plat again,that will still need to be a final plat to
match this preliminary plat, and then again, site plan review for commercial properties,
including the final sensitive areas development plan and building permits. So based on a
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review of the relevant criteria and subdivision code, staff did recommend approval with
new additional conditions. Um, and again, at the April 15th meeting,the Planning and
Zoning Commission and concurred with staffs opinion and voted seven to zero to also
recommend approval. Happy to answer questions.
Alter: Was there any,um, I'm looking at the-the new,um, subdivisions and it looks like there's
eight of them as opposed to two,right?
Sitzman: Right.
Alter: So out of curiosity, did the developer- I'm just thinking why would there be eight of them
rather than say I don't know,three to accommodate the-
Sitzman: I would let them answer that question. What we understand is that this is closer to their
final,um, intended sale of those lots and it would be more appropriate for the type of
develop- development they're hoping anticipating. It's probable that at the initial stages
with the two lot development that not all of those plans are finalized.
Alter: Got you.
Sitzman: So it's not abnormal to see re-plating
Alter: Yeah.No. I just wondered why it went from like two to eight,but like I said, curiosity.
Bergus: Just a quick clarification,Danielle, sorry. Want to make sure I'm understanding the
conversation that if there hadn't been the public streets,the change from two to eight
wouldn't have come before us?
Sitzman: Correct.
Bergus: Okay. Thank you.
Teague: Is the applicant or developer here and want to make any comments?Welcome.
Marner: Thank you. John Marner with the,MS Consultants representing the developer. To
answer your question briefly, I think Danielle did a great job of covering the topics,but to
answer your question directly,there has been some interest in the property. This is an
effort to provide lots that are of seeming interests to various potential developers for the
area. There's a mix of lots. The lots closest to Melrose Avenue, I think are three acres,the
lot south of- on the southern edge of the property are larger and then you have the two
larger lots to the west. The one other thing I'd point out is the sensitive areas that are on
the property. There is a- an existing 350 foot vegetative and noise buffer that was
provided through the zoning process, and it's the previously approved preliminary plat
that's maintained with this subdivision layout,you'll notice that the cul de sac stopped a
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little bit shorter the South property line, it stops at that 350 foot buffer for that reason.
And I'm available for any questions, if you have any.
Alter: Thank you.
Teague: All right. Anyone from the public like to address this topic, if you're online,please raise
your hand. Seeing no one Council discussion? Roll call,please. (Roll Call) Motion
passed at seven to zero.
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10. Regular Formal Agenda
10.a Utility Rate Public Hearing- Ordinance Amending Title 3,Entitled "City
Finances, Taxation And Fees," Chapter 4,Entitled "Schedule Of Fees,Rates,
Charges,Bonds, Fines,And Penalties" of the City Code to increase or change
charges and fees.
Teague: Item number 10.a, is utility rate public hearing this an ordinance amending title three
entitled city finances,taxation and fees. Chapter 4 entitles schedule of fees,rates,
charges,bonds, fines, and penalties. Other city code to increase or change charges and
fees. I'm going to open the public hearing and welcome Jacklyn.
1.Public Hearing
Fleagle: Hey,Jacklyn Fleagle,Assistant Finance Director. Uh, good evening,Mayor and
Council. I'm here to go over the utility rate increases approved as part of the FY24
Budget. Here you'll see outlined all of the increases that will go through. Uh,this is all of
them laid out. We'll go through each one in more detail on the following slides and then
our final two slides,will go through what those might look like, all put together as part of
a like minimum monthly bill. We'll start with a water fund. Um, again,this is approved as
part of the FY24 budget and three-year financial plan,um, suggesting a rate increase of
four percent,raising the minimum monthly rate from $8.19-$8.52 percent per month.
This would go into place starting July 1st,um, expected to regenerate approximately
$400,000 annually to cover increased costs of water treatment products, equipment, and
labor. Um, a water increase was last adopted in FY21,but not put into place until FY22,
it was delayed because of COVID. Um, and then next slide here you'll see kind of laid
out the projected revenues and expenses for the water fund. Uh,the large spike that you
see in FY24 corresponds with,um, some large capital projects,um,being the collector
well,number 2, cleaning and upgrade. So that's the-the cause of that large spike. and you
see it start to drop off in fiscal year 26 and beyond due to the pay off of some,um, a
revenue debt there. Moving over to wastewater. Um, again, approved as part of the FY24
budget,um,we would- are suggesting a rate increase of two percent. The minimum
monthly rate would go $8.15-$8.31 per month. I- expecting it to generate approximately
$240,000 annually to cover the cost of wastewater treatment products, equipment, and
labor. Uh,the last increased done for the wastewater rate was done actually in 2009 so
quite some time. Ah, a gain, showing the projected revenues and expenses for
wastewater,uh,the-you'll see the large dip,um, in 24 is due to the pay off of our debt
service. So there's no debt service payments in 24. And then we're expecting it to go back
up again,um,with the, ah,planned issuance of revenue debt in- in 24 for a digester
complex rehab and digester gas improvements. Um, so seeing those payments come back
on in FY25 going forward. The refuse fund,there are the three rate increases within the
refuse fund. The fust one being the curbside solid waste rate there seeing,um, expecting
a rate increase of dollar per dwelling unit per month with the merit increase for additional
carts. That would take the monthly rate from $13 to $14 per month starting July 1st,
expecting to generate approximately $190,000 annually to cover the cost of increased
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tonnages, cost of fuel, equipment, and labor. The last,uh, increased for curbside, solid
waste was done in FY23. We're doing a similar rate increase for the curbside recycling
fee with one dollar increase per dwelling unit per month,the rate going from $6.50-$7.50
per month and expecting to generate approximately $190,000 annually to cover those
same kind of expenses;the increased tonnages,the cost of fuel, equipment and labor. Uh,
similarly,the last increase was done for FY23 at $0.50 per dwelling unit. The third and
final rate increase for the refuse fund are the-the bulky item pick-up rate. Uh,there-
having a rate increase of$7.50 per item for the fust item and then four dollars per
additional item after that. So the fust rate item would go from $12.50- $20 per item, and
then the additional item would go $6-$10 per item starting July 1st,uh,we're expecting
this would generate about $7,000 annually to cover again,those same kind of expenses,
the increased cost of fuel, equipment and labor that we're seeing at the last increased. Um,
I don't- I actually,this is a comment. I don't think that this was increased in 23. I think
this is probably been some time. And then here kind of lays out the whole fun and
together for refuse,um, showing the revenues and expenses projected going forward.No
major spikes in there that we're seeing in some of the other funds. Moving on to landfill,
uh,the one fee increase suggested for landfill fund is that minimum tipping fee increase,
in rate increase of seven dollars per visit for Iowa City residents and $7.50 for non Iowa
City residents. This would take,um,the rate up to $14 per visit for Iowa City residents
and $15,um, for non Iowa City residents. We would expect this to generate about
$150,000 annually to cover the cost of equipment and labor. Um, let's see, in this last was
increased in FY2020. Here's that graphical explanation of expected revenues and
expenses going forward. The-the large expenses that you're seeing in FY23 and FY24
are largely for CIP projects. So FY23 is the landfill sell and then 24 is the landfill
equipment building replacement. Um, so that's why those two expense years are
substantially higher. Then the stormwater fund is next,um,rate increase of$0.50 per
equivalent residential unit per month for the stormwater utility fee, uh, increasing it from
$5-5.50 per month for a single residential properties and $2.50-3 per month for multi
residential properties. Expecting to generate approximately $175,000 annually to cover
increased cost of equipment and labor. The last increase done for stormwater was in
2020. And then again,that graphical explanation of the revenues expenses going forward
projected. Um, fairly static there's some slight jumps in 24 and 26 for different CIP
projects,but nothing super significant. And then the final fee increases that will go
through are in the parking fund,um, expecting a rate increase of$5 per month for permit
revenue. So starting with the monthly ramp parking,uh,that would increase $85-$90 per
month paid monthly, and then a similar increase then if you're paying annually. Um, all
day surface lot parking lot permits would go $65-$70. Similarly, an increase if paid
annually. Um,the monthly off hour surface parking permit goes $59-$63. Um,this would
also include an annual moped scooter and motorcycle permit,uh, increasing $90-$95 per
year. We would expect this to generate about $108,000 annually to cover increased cost
of equipment and labor within the parking fund. The last parking permit fee increase was
done in FY2017. And then in this graph you can see again those same revenues and
expenses projected out,um,the slight,um, uptake in FY24 is going to be for a CIP
project in the tower place drainage modifications. So those are all of the individual
increases by fund. And then here it lays out what the minimum monthly utility bill might
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look like for a- a resident,um, showing the current rate,we would expect about a
minimum monthly being $44.83 then with all of these fee rates included in factoring
them in,but go up to $47.83. And this is for irregular resident. Um, and then we also
included,um, a monthly discounted utility bill might look like. Um, but the same rate
increases. So going from $14.52-$15.39,um, as in a minimum monthly discounted bill.
Questions?
Teague: Thank you. Would anyone from the public like to address this topic? If online,please
raise your hand. Seeing no one, I'm going to close the public hearing.
2. Consider an Ordinance(First Consideration)
Teague: Could I give a motion- could I get a motion to give fust consideration?
Alter: So moved,Alter.
Thomas; Second Thomas.
Teague;All right, Council discussion?
Bergus: It's always tough to do. Utility increases, especially when we know people are facing
rising costs,but we are facing rising costs too. And,um, I think are all of these in
enterprise funds. Is that correct?
From: Yes, that's correct.
Bergus: And so,you know,these are funds that buy our policies are self-sustaining and so in
order to,you know,pay for the increases in labor and fuel and equipment and materials,
um, and you have to raise rates. I'm grateful we're doing it incrementally and would
rather see these small increases,you know, a couple of years in a row rather than big
jumps.
Teague: The other thing I appreciate it was that last slide,the minimum monthly discount and
our utility discount program. For eligible Iowa City utility customers,they can receive a
discount of 60% of the minimum water and sewer charges, 60% of the monthly
stormwater charge, and 75% of the refuse recycling and organics charges each month.
And that's why we saw such a significant small amount there. So roll call, please. (Roll
Call) Motion passes 7 - 0.
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10.b Proposed Conveyance of an Underground Utility Easement to MidAmerican Energy
-Resolution approving the conveyance of an underground utility easement to
MidAmerican Energy Company across Auditor's Parcel 2001020.
Teague: We are on to item Number 10.b,Proposed Conveyance of an Underground Utility
Easement to MidAmerican Energy Company. Resolution and proving the conveyance of
an underground utility easement to American energy company across auditors parcel
2001020. I'm going to open the public hearing and welcome Scott.
1. Public Hearing
Sovers: Good evening,Mayor and Council. Scott Sovers,Assistant City Engineer. This item is
for the conveyance of a non-exclusive electric,uh, easement to been American energy
than the city's property generally located Northeast.Northeasterly of the third Thornberry
Dog Park within the Peninsula. The approximate location of the easement is outlined in
red on the slide. It's important to note that this is a part of the-part of a collaborative
project between the city and Mid-American Energy to provide a secondary power feed to
the city's Peninsula oilfield. I know it was short,but that concludes my presentation. I'd
be happy to answer any questions.
Teague: I don't hear any. Thank you. All right. Anyone from the public like to address this topic.
If online raise your hand. If in-person come forth. Seeing no one, I'm going to close the
public hearing.
2. Consider a Resolution
Teague: Can I get a motion to approve,please?
Bergus: So moved,Bergus.
Alter: Second Alter.
Teague: Council discussion?Roll-call,please.
Goers: Harmsen?
Alter: I'm sorry. I thought you were going to say no.
Goers:No.
Alter: My bad.
Goers: (Roll Call).
Teague: Motion passes seven to zero.
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10.c Hickory Hill Park Shelter and Restrooms -Resolution approving project
manual and estimate of cost for the construction of the Hickory Hill Park Shelter
and Restrooms Project,establishing amount of bid security to accompany each bid,
directing City Clerk to post notice to bidders, and fixing time and place for receipt
of bids.
Teague: Item 100,Hickory Hill Park Shelter and Restrooms,resolution improvement project
manual and estimate of cost for the construction. The Hickory Hill Park Shelter in
Restroom project has to have sufficient amount of bid, security to accompany each bid.
Directing city clerk to post notice to bidders and fixing time and place for receipt of bids.
I'm going to open the public hearing and welcome Juli.
1. Public Hearing
Seydell-Johnson: Juli Seydell-Johnson,Director of Parks and Recreation. This is a repeat. You
saw this a few months ago, is packaged with our other summer projects for this summer
due to some issues with the bidding we're bidding-rebuilding it. So this is the north
entrance of Hickory Hill Park off Conklin Street. It is replacing the current shelter and
restroom that is their current condition. This is the last of these older versions of the
shelter with connected restroom. And what we'll be doing is making it into two separate
buildings. One will be down here,the restroom would be moved closer to the parking lot
area,um, and we'll include storage area for the friends of Hickory Hill for their volunteer
efforts and the equipment they keep there. Um, and this one shows the shelter and the
restroom and the type of shelter which we have in several of the other parks. So happy to
answer any questions.
Teague: Hearing none. Thank you. Anyone from the public like to address this topic if online,
please raise your hand. If in-person come forth. Seeing no one at this time, I'm going to
close the public hearing.
2. Consider a Resolution
Teague: Could I get a motion to approve,please?
Bergus: So moved,Bergus.
Alter: Second Alter.
Teague: Council discussion. Roll call, please. (Roll Call) Motion passes 7 - 0.
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10.d 2023 GO Bonds Bidding Procedure- Resolution Directing the Advertisement
for Sale of$9,655,000* (Dollar Amount Subject To Change) General Obligation
Bonds, Series 2023,And Approving Electronic Bidding Procedures And
Distribution of Preliminary Official Statement
Teague: Item 10.d 2023, GO Bonds Bidding Procedure,resolution directing the advertisement
for sale of 9,655,000 general obligation bonds series 2023, and approve proven an
electronic bidding procedures and distribution,uh,preliminary official statement. Can I
get a motion to approve,please?
Dunn: So moved,Dunn.
Alter: Second Alter.
Teague: And we're going to welcome Jacklyn back.
Fleagle: All right. Jacklyn Fleagle,Assistant Finance Director back. So this is just the next step
in improving the city's general obligation bonds to fund our CIP plan for the year. Uh,
this resolution approves the advertisement of the $9.6 million GO bonds and the sale
document, otherwise known as our preliminary official statement. Uh,this document is
what it gets sent out to all the potential bidders that the,um, for the city's bonds. The
resolution also approves the procedures used to bid on the bonds. The state will happen
May 2 during the morning and then in the evening. We will bring back the results of the
bidding for you guys as approval.
Teague: Great. Thank you. Anyone from the public like to address this topic? So please raise
your hand online. And if you're in the audience, come forth. Seeing no one. Council
discussion. Roll call,please? (Roll Call) Motion passes seven to zero.
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10.e Contract to Analyze Racial Disparities and Traffic Stops -Resolution
approving a contract with the University of Iowa to analyze racial disparities in
traffic stops.
Teague: Item 10.e, contract to analyze racial disparities and traffic stops. Resolution, improving
the contract when the University of Iowa to analyze racial disparities and traffic stop. Can
I get a motion to approve,please?
Dunn: So moved.
Taylor: Second.
Teague: Moved by Dunn, seconded by Taylor. And welcome, Chief Liston.
Liston: I'm Dustin Liston, Chief of Police. Thank you,Mayor and Council. This is a resolution in
or no agreement with the University of Iowa Public Policy Center to,um, continue our
traffic study. Um, and the Iowa City Police Department's been collecting data on traffic
stops since 1999 and in 2004,the University of Louisville produced a study studying the
traffic stops and the calendar year of 2002. And of their recommendations was to
continue conducting those studies. And in 2006,we entered in an agreement with Dr.
Chris Barnum from St. Ambrose University and he conducted those studies from 2006-
2020,the last of which was published in 2021, and it's currently on our website. So,um,
the department continues to seek the most effective research-backed methods to analyze
demographic data on traffic stops with the goal of identifying any racial disparities. The
University of Iowa Public Policy Center has proposed research, informed traffic study
that implements several strategies that will bolster the current understanding of racial
disparities in Iowa City traffic stops. The goal of the study is to present a holistic
comprehensive evaluation intended to complement past analysis of Iowa City traffic stop
disparities. This traffic study will support the department's continued commitment to
eliminating racial profiling,heightening awareness of implicit bias-bias, and building
trust and respect between law enforcement and all communities and persons in Iowa City.
And working with the University of Iowa Public Policy Center additionally supports the
Iowa City Police Department's desire to work with community partners and invest in
local collaborations. With me tonight I have Dr. Ethan Rogers from the Public Policy
Council or Public Policy Center. If you have any questions of him and I'll take any
questions as well.
Alter: One of the questions I have are perhaps the only question I have is,um, noted,that the
study will support commitment to eliminating racial profiling,heightened awareness of
implicit bias, and building trust and respect,within those categories, does the work and
the analysis and the takeaways lead to actual action items,um,within the department?
Liston: Absolutely. We've been doing this with Dr. Barnum for going on 15 years now. And
that's one of the things we cover in every annual evaluation with individual officers. It's
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also influenced our training. It's influenced the policy or bias-base policing policy that we
use. This research does it influence all of those decisions?
Alter: One other question and perhaps it might also apply for you, doctor, is,um, so what's going
to be, I don't know, different heightened emphasized more what-what is IPP going to be
able to add to this particular kind of study?
Liston: I think he can probably answer that better than I can,but we think it's expanding on what
we're currently doing. Times have changed certainly over the last couple of years,much
more research has been done. Some of the things Dr. Barnum we're doing,we're kind of
groundbreaking at the time. And times keep,research keeps improving and I think that's
some of the things we're looking for with the Public Policy Center.
Rogers: Thank you. Um,Assistant Research Scientist Ethan Rogers working at the University of
Iowa Public Policy Center,um, first off just see if I can thank you to Chief Liston for
reaching out er,to discuss potential project in this regard,um. To answer your questions
specifically, one big contribution that we aim to identify is a thorough description first off
fundamentally about traffic enforcement itself,um, to try to reveal and show the public
exactly what traffic enforcement and it looks like and has looked like at least over the
past decade. So longitudinal examination is also going to be centered to this focus of the
project,um, in large part because many of the previous proposals are- are snapshots in
the year. This is to hopefully give us a guidance in terms of where we've been and where
we're going in terms of disparities. The other big contribution is looking into the actual
analyses of the racial disparity. So as we propose,we're using multiple analytical
strategies in large part because there is a lot of debate even in the academic community,
about the best way to assess disparities and traffic enforcement. So our hope is to by
showing multiple different strategies and even within strategies,multiple different
approaches that we can kind of give that comprehensive look.
Alter: Thank you very much.
Harmsen: Will your look,uh,be just at traffic or will you look at other sorts of interactions as
well?
Rogers: Um, for this project, we're spoke- er, focusing specifically on traffic enforcement. Um,
other- other types of calls for service or pedestrian er, er, stops can be examined in other
projects but for this,we're focusing specifically on traffic.
Harmsen: Thank you.
Thomas: And- and what detail in terms of the location of the stock?
Rogers: Yes. So looking at or just being coming familiar ourselves with what the stock data can
include, er,right now, er,the geographic indicator as those contexts stones, er, so there
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are relatively large, er,portion of the Iowa City, um, geography. Er,but we're hoping as
we move forward to be able to get some more precise geographic indicators there.
Bergus: I have a question just about the longitudinal ness. Um, I think if mentioned that the last
time the sea named Bruce, er, study was done was 2020 and we have the results from 21.
Did you continue to collect the same data throughout that time period?
Liston: Right. And it's Dr. Emerson or excuse me,Dr. Barnum made some suggestions on data
collection and that's one of the things we'll work with the university too. We can-we can
change which data we collect but we certainly have maintained that data collection. The
last study, er,Dr. Barnum did was 2019 and 20. He did both of those at the same time
and that was published in 2021 but we've-we continue to maintain that data collection.
Bergus: So then I just have a really nerdy follow-up question. From, er, doing ride alongs, I've
watched the officers kinda input the data based on the questionnaire that we have, any
concerns with how kind of like the software side of that for the officers will be
implemented?Do we have the tools to smoothly do that?
Liston: We do and that is something that we do tweak from time-to-time. Someone decides it
typically a researcher says,Hey, it would be nice if you guys captured this data and we'd-
and we can- can we can amend our software to capture that.
Bergus: Thank you.
Teague: Thank you both. Anyone from the public line to address this topic? If online,please
raise your hand, if in-person please come forth. I'm gonna welcome Noah online.
Peterson: Hello, can you hear me?
Teague: Yes,welcome.
Peterson: Okay cool. Um, so I'll say but just like this is another annoying thing is on the agenda,
you don't list the price of this being estimated to be roughly $70,000. Be nice we have
that easily accessible on the agenda especially when I know I-unless there's a change
since the last meeting I mentioned we had been printed all agendas. You don't have all
the details of the agenda items,you just have what's available online unless you close.
Click on the hyperlink and yet click on the hyperlink to see the cost of this. Be nice to
have on your descriptions of- on the agenda just say how much it costs. Just like every
other,most other items have that cost. Be nice to just an accessibility thing to do that. Ah,
another thing is um, I mean, sure this is study is nice I guess but like wha-what's the
point we should just not have cops in traffic stops and periods? So there's no chance for
them to you know, start murdering,brutalizing people like they commonly do throughout
that nation on traffic stops. I mean that-that just stop sending armed agents of the state
after people on track it stops. That's the easiest solution to stop any racial disparities is to
stop having armed agencies going after people for traffic. I mean that's-that's an
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incredibly easy concept and that's something that you should do. So set up a department
that is not on there-the cops that deals with traffic issues. So you don't have to be sending
armed agents of the state with the ability to kill on every single tropics up,which is what
happens when the cops are doing it,there's always an opportunity for this cops get trigger
happy or sorry, getting baton happy or changed or happy or pepper spray happy or
handcuff happy. And I mean like you all the data you won't believe it's not when you just
don't have cops. If you wanna like solve the problem,to stop having cops had people
interacting with traffic incidents and it's not a difficult concept. Do any of you not
understand that? That's the question. I would like you to respond my question even if it's
Fitts's denial answer your question, I'd like you to do that. Hello, anyone there?
Teague: We are here. Anything else?
Peterson: Can you hear me?
Teague: Yes,we can.
Peterson: Have you heard my questions?Hello. Did you hear my question?
Teague:Noah,you know that you can speak to Council at this time.
Peterson: I love it when you say that because opinions requests and you just choose not to.
That's a choice on your hand part and you should make better choices.
Teague: Thank you. Anyone online or in the, er, audience who wanna address this topic? Seeing
no one, Council discussion? Roll call,please. (Roll Call) Yes. Motion passes 7- 0.
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11. Council Appointments
ll.a Parks & Recreation Commission -Parks & Recreation Commission - One
vacancy to fill an unexpired term,upon appointment- December 31,2024.
(Christopher Odinet resigned)
Teague: Item number 11, Council appointments. This is l La, we have parks and recreation
commission. One vague set of filler uninspired term upon- ap-upon appointment through
December 31, 2024. There is a gender balance requirement, one male,um, Council
discussion.
Alter: I just wanna kick it off by saying I was incredibly impressed by the number of people who
applied and um,how qualified everyone is. This is really impressive and- and thank you
everyone who's applied because I was incredibly impressed.
Dunn: I'm just again to clarify,we have to fill this position with the male.
Teague: Correct and there are four identified here.
Bergus: I would put for Jordan Brown. Um, I did reach out to make sure that this person was still
interested and he said he was.
Thomas: I would put out Mitch Lingo.
Taylor: I also liked Mitch Lingo. I think what I liked about his statements was that he really
stressed on that multi-generational benefit of- of our park system and I appreciated it that.
Alter: Um, someone that had I believe been, er,up for this once before is,um,Aaron Broege
and, er, I liked that he has,um,background in parks and rec through. He has a BA in
sports admin and recreation,he has a couple of years of county parks maintenance
experience, supervisory experience in public park development,um, so I would put forth
his name.
Teague: Or there is- [OVERLAPPING]
Alter: And I also like Jordan.
Teague: Yeah. There's quite a few people. Well, I don't know.
Bergus: I don't know if it's relevant,we all got an email from Mitch Lingo indicating he's
running for school board as well.
Dunn: Correct.
Alter: Yes.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City City Council regular
formal meeting of April 18,2023.
Page 58
Harmsen: Would just say that Aaron and Jordan were the two that had jumped out at me as well
so out of many good applicants?
Dunn: Would say Jordan is my preference at this time.
Taylor: Although I- I'd noticed that Jordan,um, is also interested in the board of adjustment and-
and said that-that was actually his preference was the board of adjustments.
Harmsen: Is that thank you.
Bergus: That is why I reached out to him to make sure he was still interested in serving on Parks
and Rec so for what it's worth.
Teague: I think great applicants I mean, I would throw-throw my name behind Aaron for now
and just to see where we land. So we have Aaron with I'm going to say two people,
Jordan with two people, and Mitchell with two people.
Bergus: I don't have strong feelings. They're all good applicants.
Alter: Yeah. This is true.
Harmsen: I guess I could go with-with Aaron as well. Or was I one of the two I wasn't sure you
were?
Teague:No you weren't one of the two.
Harmsen: Well put me down as the third then.
Teague: I didn't have you listed anywhere. Becaue you like-[OVERLAPPING] You liked two.
[OVERLAPPING] Yeah.
Harmsen: Because I liked two.
Alter: We put that portion at the end.
Teague: So we have three for Aaron two for Jordan two for Mitchell. So we have seven people
somewhere. Anyone who want to move their support?
Taylor: I could probably go with-with Aaron Bert- Bert-Bert Broege
Teague: Okay. So we have a majority for Aaron Broege. Can I get a motion to appoint?
Dunn: So moved,Dunn.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City City Council regular
formal meeting of April 18,2023.
Page 59
Harmsen: Second,Harmsen.
Teague: All in favor say aye. [Voice Vote] Aye. Any opposed motion passes 7 - 0.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City City Council regular
formal meeting of April 18,2023.
Page 60
14. City Council Information
Teague: We are at item Number 14,which is Council- City Council information.
Bergus: Its getting that time of year we got lots of events going on. I'll just list a few. This
Thursday evening at 5:30 pm at the Iowa City Public Library is the Community Police
Review Board public forum. A couple of people have provide—as of their last meeting, a
few people had emailed in questions,but people are also welcome to attend and ask
questions of the Commission at that time. And they're going to include a discussion of the
police department values, as well as just general information about the commission. Um
the Energy Blitz is this Saturday. I don't even know what neighborhood it's in. Creekside
Neighborhood. Thank you,Rachel. And rain date would be May 6th,but people on the
Creekside neighborhood should be excited about volunteers knocking on their doors to
give them amazing tools to save up to like $75 a year in energy and divert 500,000
pounds of things, greenhouse gases, it's late. I'm sorry. I had it in my brain. Then on
Sunday.. That's Saturday. Then on Sunday is the south district team up to clean up event.
So walk-up volunteers are totally welcome if you're not signed up. Folks are meeting to
sign in and kind of get their assignments and go throughout the south district
neighborhood to beautify. So you can anything from picking up trash along streets and
trails to spiffing up some garden beds and working in the edible forest and Wetherby
Park. So if folks want to meet on Sunday morning at 10:00 A.M. at the mural on the
backside of Faith Academy, is where we will be.
Alter: Actually, I think that the like staging zone is like going towards Broadway in Sandusky at
the entrance of the
Bergus: South End.
Alter: Yeah. Thank you for the directions. The south end of the south district.
Bergus: Then the 27th,there's a really cool another climate thing where Jane Wilch and Sarah
Gardner will be doing there speaking of,which is normally a Zoom event in person at
Big Grove. I think that's in the evening on the 27th.
Teague: Hearing no more announcements.
This represents only a reasonably accurate transcription of the Iowa City City Council regular
formal meeting of April 18,2023.