HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-09-05 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 4.a.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Z%--_ �=Pa COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: July 20
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: July 20
July 20, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Emma J. Harvat Hall, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Wangui Gathua, Marie Krebs, Lauren Merritt, Clif
Johnson, Sikowis Nobis.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers, Redmond Jones.
Meeting called to order: 7:06 pm.
Reading of Native American Land Acknowledgement: Merritt read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of Minutes from June 15, 2023: Merritt moved, and Gathua seconded.
Motion passed 6-0.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: Mica Sue Doolan spoke on the handling of a
proclamation at a Board of Supervisors meeting for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
and Girls (MMIW). David Sterling spoke on the same topic and asked for the TRC to address the
issue in the future. Terry Medina also spoke on the handling of the proclamation and views it as a
teachable moment.
Facilitator Education Workshops: Jena Kitchen of Think Peace and Larry Schooler of Kearns and
West will hold workshops for the TRC from August 1— August 3. Part of the workshops will
include an overview of strategic doing. Dillard is working on an invitation that can be sent out to
the community. City staff will work with members of the facilitation team to locate a space that is
available to hold the workshops. Facilitator LaMere suggested that a questionnaire be prepared
for the community to fill out that asks what they want from the TRC. This will be created.
At the workshops, community members will be able to make comments at the beginning and end
of each session.
Marketing and Promotion for the TRC: Johnson presented three different options of images as
possible logos for the TRC. Johnson will have the colors in the images redesigned and present
them to the TRC at a future meeting.
A Talk by the Native Partners: LaMere spoke on wanting to provide solutions that could include
creating a pamphlet about different media, or a list of resources that highlight Indigenous
authors, films, books, etc. This could also be a project the city initiates on its own. LaMere would
also like to see a centralized multicultural space here in Iowa City that would provide a safe space
for healing.
Medina discussed talking circles and the need for critical listening skills as a part of the circles.
Wanatee supports what the TRC does and the need in this community for such a commission. It
will not be easy work and the truth and healing will be difficult.
Racism on Parade Stunt at the Muscatine Fourth of July Event: Johnson County has issued a
statement condemning the incident and the TRC would like to either see themselves make a
similar statement or for the City Council to make one. Great Plains Action Society issued a
statement that included suggestions to make changes so that a similar incident does not occur in
the future.
Correspondence: None.
Follow up on Communications with the ICCSD: The district has stated that they have or will be
making the book "Teaching Columbus" available at some school libraries. Krebs will follow up.
Commission Announcements: Gathua thanked the facilitators. Dillard encouraged submissions
for the two vacancies on the TRC that are due by this Tuesday. Dillard also mentioned National
Night Out being held on August 1 and a back -to -school drive that will be held on August 12.
Johnson invited everyone to attend a South District boxing showcase on July 22. Nobiss
commented on the second annual Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Pow Wow held in
Sioux City. Krebs spoke on the racist incident at the Muscatine July Fourth Parade. Krebs ended
her remarks by highlighting why MMIW is different than all lives matter and why there is a
difference and why Indigenous women literally have no protections of any laws.
Adjourned: 9:13 PM.
City Board and Commission meetings are recorded and can be viewed in their entirety by
visiting this link.
4
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
1/5
1/19
2/2
3/2
4/6
5/4
6/1
6/15
7/20
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Gathua
12/31/24
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Nobiss
12/31/24
P
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
Vacant
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Vacant
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.b.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 1
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 1
August 1, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Sikowis (Christine Nobiss), Marie Krebs,
Lauren Merritt, Wangui Gathua.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris.
Staff present: Redmond Jones, Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 5:38.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Merritt read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: No.
Introductions: The facilitators began by introducing themselves individually, providing a brief
overview of their identities and professional backgrounds. Following the introductions, Dr.
Spalding asked all members to engage in a reflective activity. The purpose of this activity was to
encourage participants to pause and find a sense of inner calm or focus before actively engaging
in the session's activities or discussions.
Truth Commissions and Political Content: The group began to examine the resolution that
established the Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The resolution shows the three
main objectives of the commission and how they are supposed to achieve those objectives. The
resolution also explains the relationship between the commissioners, facilitators, and the public.
The resolution states that the objective of the commission is confronting and reckoning with the
past.
Iowa City's Truth Commission and Common Language: The retreat facilitators compiled a list of
words and phrases with respect to Truth and Reconciliation that were defined for ease and
learning purposes. The commission members further added words and phrases that they felt
should be listed on the glossary document.
Closing Reflections: The commissioners and facilitators shared their thoughts about the day's
session and reflected on the stories and ideas shared by all. Furthermore, the commissioners
shared what the Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation commission means to them and how they feel it
has been successful so far.
Public Comment on Items #4 Only: David Sterling commented on how this session reminds him
of an example of dialectic behavior therapy. Amos Kiche on behalf of the Johnson County African
Association spoke on how the session humbles him, how things are very complex, and thanked
the TRC members for their work.
Adjourned: 9:01.
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meetine Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
1/5
1/19
2/2
3/2
4/6
5/4
6/1
6/15
7/20
8/1
8/2
8/3
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Gathua
12/31/24
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Nobiss
12/31/24
P
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
Simmons
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
Tassinary
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
_
-
-
-
A
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.c.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Z%--_ �=Pa COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 2
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 2
August 2, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Sikowis (Christine Nobiss), Marie Krebs,
Lauren Merritt, Wangui Gathua.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Louis Tassinary, Chad Simmons.
Staff present: Redmond Jones, Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 5:32.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Dillard read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: No.
Strategic Tools needed by the TRC: The facilitators opened the conversation by asking the TRC
about their motivation and personal journeys that led them to undertake this important work.
The commissioners took this opportunity to reflect upon and share their individual reasons for
committing themselves to truth telling and reparation work for the Iowa City community.
Elaborating on their reasons, the commissioners discussed various factors that influenced their
decision. For example, they shared personal stories of witnessing or experiencing injustice,
discrimination, or historical trauma within the community.
Public Engagement, facilitations, and participating in a consensus process: After reflecting on
their personal motivations, the TRC commissioners engaged in an interactive presentation that
centered around four different TRC commissions from different parts of the world. These
commissions included the TRC in South Africa, Canada, North Carolina, and Peru.
Comparative examples and definition of public hearings and public activities: The facilitators
discussed different forms and ways in which a platform for truth telling can be established.
Including, brainstorming potential approaches that would allow community members to share
their stories, experiences, and perspectives.
Closing Reflections: The commissioners shared their final thoughts on ideas they would like to
implement to create a platform for truth telling.
Public Comment on Items #4 Only: Hiram Webber acknowledged the importance of having so
many people of color in one space at one time. Amos Kiche suggested for the members of the
TRC to document their struggles and frustrations as a part of the process that they endured.
Adjourned: 9:06
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
1/5
1/19
2/2
3/2
4/6
5/4
6/1
6/15
7/20
8/1
8/2
8/3
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Gathua
12/31/24
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Nobiss
12/31/24
P
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
Simmons
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
A
Tassinary
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
_
-
-
-
A
A
I
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.d.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 3
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 3
August 3, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Sikowis (Christine Nobiss), Marie Krebs,
Lauren Merritt, Wangui Gathua, Louis Tassinary.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Chad Simmons.
Staff present: Redmond Jones, Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 5:30.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Merritt read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda: Charlie Eastham, as an individual, asked if the TRC
would consider including the issues ICCSD students have expressed at School Board meetings as a
part of its truth and reconciliation process. Laura Bergus thanked the TRC for its work, patience,
and everything they have put into this work.
Organization of hearings: Selection or invitation of statement -givers, preparation, and
procedure: The facilitators recognize the importance of building a strong connection and
fostering a sense of trust and understanding among all participants in the TRC discussion. During
this phase, the facilitators and commissioners emphasized the significance of acknowledging
personal biases, privileges, and societal structures such as white supremacy that impact truth and
reconciliation efforts.
Organization of hearings: Envisioning how this would look in Iowa City: The commission listened
to a presentation on fact finding and how to implement the TRC in the Iowa City community. The
group discussed how data can be beneficial, but also detrimental to the fact-finding process. The
facilitators shared their understanding of facilitation and how group facilitation can be helpful in
the seeking of truth.
Strategic Doing Primer: The facilitators went over strategic doing. Strategic doing provides a new
discipline for developing and implementing strategy within the loose networks that characterize
communities and regions.
Closing Reflections: The facilitators and commissioners shared their final thoughts and ideas for
moving forward. The idea of a questionnaire for the community to share their thoughts on a truth
telling process was seen as beneficial.
Public Comment on Items #4 Only: David Sterling is stoked to see the TRC empowered. Sterling
acknowledged the robbing of their time by City actions and thanked them for their perseverance.
Adjourned: 9:14
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
[Meeting Datel
NAME
'ITERNI
EXP.
1/5
1/19
2/2
3/2
4/6
5/4
6/1
6/15
7/20
8/1
8/2
8/3
Dillard
12/31/24
p
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
p
Cathua
12/31/24
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
p
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
p
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
p
p
P
p
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
p
P
p
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
p
P
Nobiss
12/31/24
p
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
Simmons
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
A
A
Tassinary
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
A
P
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.e.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Z%--_ �=Pa COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 17
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 17
August 17, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)
Minutes Emma J. Harvatt, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Chad Simmons Sikowis, (Christine Nobiss),
Marie Krebs (via Zoom), Lauren Merritt, Wangui Gathua.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Louis Tassinary.
Staff present: Redmond Jones, Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 7:04.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Merritt read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of the meeting minutes of July 20, 2023 and August 1-3, 2023: Simmons moved, and
the motion was seconded by Merritt. Motion passed 7-0.
Phase One Work Plan: Commissioner Johnson will send staff the most recent logo creations in
preparation for the meeting on August 24.
The TRC plans to hold their first hearings in October.
Budget for Phase One: Commissioners decided to keep the proposed budget at $10,000.00 and
place $2500 in each category—special meetings, community marketing, special events,
miscellaneous pilot programs.
Strategic Doing Workshops: Two workshops will be held in September to introduce Strategic
Doing (SD) to commissioners and the community. One will be held on the 14th and the other the
16th. The plan is for commission members to send out personal invitations to persons in the
community in the area of non-profit, community, medical, religious/spiritual, business, University,
and School District.
The commission also discussed the various accessibility needs of both SD events.
Reports of Commissioners: Sikowis reported that her organization, Great Plains Action Society,
will be working alongside the City's Parks and Recreation department on an Indigenous People's
Day event for October 9. Sikowis believes this is the first municipality in Iowa to host such an
event in recognition of the day.
Adjourned: 9:05
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
1/19
2/2
3/2
4/6
5/4
6/1
6/15
7/20
8/1
8/2
8/3
8/17
8/24
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
p
P
Gathua
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Nobiss
12/31/24
A
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
Simmons
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A
P
Tassinary
12/31/24
-
-
-
-
_
-
-
-
-
-
P
A
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.f.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Historic Preservation Commission: July 13
Attachments: Historic Preservation Commission: July 13
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JULY 13, 2023 —5:30 PM —FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carl Brown, Deanna Thomann, Noah Stork, Jordan Sellergren, Andrew
Lewis, Nicole Villanueva, Margaret Beck
MEMBERS ABSENT: Frank Wagner, Christina Welu-Reynolds
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow
OTHERS PRESENT: Andy Martin, Sherry DeGraw
CALL TO ORDER:
Vice -Chairperson Sellergren called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
HPC 23-0030: 430 Brown Street — Brown Street Historic District (skvtube installation):
Bristow began the staff report noting this is in the Brown Street Historic District and located on the
corner of Van Buren and Brown. She showed a photo of the property noting the front facade of the
house has a front porch the full width of the house, it has a gable roof with a full dormer and because it
is a gable roof this house is a colonial revival and part of the sub -genre of Dutch Colonial. Bristow
stated there was an addition to match the house in the 60s or 70s and also a new garage that was
added more recently.
This project is to add Solatube skylights to the roof and she showed they fit on the roof so that the
portion of the tube on the exterior does not have to have the interior portion directly below, the skylight
can be redirected so if the skylight is put on the north side on the exterior it can light a portion of the
space inside on the south side. In this instance the exterior portion on the outside would be on the
north portion of the roof where the addition ties in and it's letting light into the space on the south side of
the roof. This will allow them to have the skylight's light on the south side but not have skylights on the
front of the house. She showed the roof plan submitted noting the squares would be the Solatubes
located pretty close to the top of the roof line.
The application says that they are adding light to their attic master bedroom suite and the other one
goes to another space. Bristow confirmed the skylights will not be visible from the street however
during the staff review she noticed that there is an option for a flat version and she showed the exterior
options for different types of roof like Shake shingles, regular shingles, slate, flat tile roof, Spanish tile,
and metal and a low profile shingle. Currently the recommendation in the staff report is to approve the
project using the low -profile option instead of the fisheye lens if it will function properly for the project
installation.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13; 2023
Page 2 of 8
Bristow stated they have very little in the guidelines about skylights but do talk about putting them on
the back of the house. They had been getting a number of applications that were all similar and they
tend to approve them all the same and so the Commission approved a staff reviewable project for
skylights as a minor review and that included conditions such as the fact that they're installed on the
rear -facing slope, that they're framed in metal as opposed to vinyl, in a color that blends with the
building roof material, that the skylights are low profile and follow the angle of the roof and do not
include fisheye lenses or other elements that protrude more than six inches above the roof surface, and
that the skylight is sized to fit between the roof joists and have a length that is no more than three times
the width. However, this project using the Solatube does not follow those conditions and that is why
this project is before the Commission for a review.
Again, Bristow stated the recommendation is to use the flat low -profile version if it functions properly
and she sent a message to the contractor but hadn't heard back. She also called the company and
they said the flat low -profile tends to be less expensive than the others and it loses about five percent of
the light normally gained but beyond that the contractor can talk about the feasibility of using that in
relationship to the recommendation.
Currently based on what the manufacturer said Bristow would have revised this to strike the "if it will
function properly for the project" from the recommendation because it appeared it is feasible, however
depending on what the contractor has to say the Commission can either strike that or not or remove it
completely.
Stork asked if the Commission is only approving this because it's not the fisheye design type. Bristow
confirmed that was correct however she would actually argue it's also not the standard rectangular one
and being the Solatube, whether it was the low profile or not, it would likely have to come before the
Commission.
Andy_Martin, contractor on this project, first stated it was interesting Bristow was told the flat one would
work because the company told him they should not mount the flat ones on a north facing slope, only
on the south face. Bristow clarified she didn't give them that much information. Martin acknowledged
the idea being the fisheye lens would allow it to be mounted on the back of the house and then they
can get that light in the front of the house, particularly in the bedroom and the bathroom areas where
they don't have a whole lot of light. He believes they wanted one for the closet too but that could
probably be done with a regular skylight depending on where that falls on the roof. Because of the roof
line the idea was that the domes were the way to go because that way they would get more light
distributed into the room.
Sellergren asked for clarification if the rectangular ones are not advised for that side of the house.
Martin confirmed he was told the low -profile ones, the flat ones, should only be used on a south face
which would put it on the street face.
Beck asked what the dimensions of the fisheye are. Martin replied it's roughly 16 by 16. He noted they
can get a 10 -inch unit and a 14 -inch but they were looking at the 14 or 16 with four along the roof and
then one on the back.
Stork asked how high the dome things stick up from the from the roof line. Martin replied it's maybe a
foot on the downward side.
Sellergren asked Bristow if historically the Commission would have seen something on a roof that
would have that shape, perhaps roof vents. Bristow is not sure, but for solar panels and skylights they
tend to like them to just be rectangular and low profile to blend in with a roof but this is on the back of
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13, 2023
Page 3of8
the house so not as visible
Sellergren is generally in favor of changes that allow people to rely more on natural light within their
house and it does sound like unfortunately the flat option will not work in this location and it is good to
prioritize placement on the back.
Bristow stated in staff's opinion it is not going to have a significant adverse effect to the nearby
Landmark property, either. Sellergren agrees and stated a circle versus a rectangle is not such a big
deal if one is more effective than the other. She believes the Commission should prioritize the option
that is more efficient and provides more light and is more effective and therefore doesn't see any
reason to not approve the round ones.
Stork stated the approval that the Commission had done in a prior project for skylights in the setup for a
minor staff review was very clearly defined as to exactly what approved and not approved and so would
approving this create a precedent and make it possible for somebody to look at this case as an
example for them to do the same thing. Bristow confirmed that's an accurate concern, but at least it is
on the back and if the Commission wanted to put the condition back in that they verify that it doesn't
work to have the flat one that would be the only thing she could really think of that they could do unless
they chose to just not approve this. She did also note the Commission would have to approve any
future projects if it was anything but the standard approved products.
MOTION: Thomann moves to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 430
Brown Street, as presented in the staff report allowing the fisheye option if the low -profile
option is not feasible. Brown second.
A vote was taken and the motion carried on a vote of 7-0 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
HPC23-0018: 511 South Lucas Street - Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District (window
replacement)
Bristow stated this project was deferred from the June agenda at the applicant's request. It's in the
Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District which has a mixture of contributing properties. This
property is a Foursquare that does have a little bump out on the north side. It has vinyl siding and at
this point in time has five 5 over 1 windows and one 6 over 1 on the front of the house. On the back are
the multi -paned fixed sash windows and another 5 over 1. When the property was recently purchased
the owners replaced all of the windows with vinyl single hung - single light windows. When that was
discovered the owners were given a notice of violation of the zoning code for doing the work without
approval and then they submitted the application and in the application, they provided the information
about the windows that they in put in. Typically what happens with a window approval project is
somebody submits an application and then staff go out and look at the windows determine if they are
able to be repaired or if they need to be replaced. The goal is to retain the historic windows because
they're made for the house and fit that house and can have an indefinite lifespan. The storm windows
themselves may need to be replaced over time. Windows are reviewed and typical things seen are
cracked paint, cracked glazing putty, missing paint and glazing putty, broken glass, missing glass,
broken and missing weights or sash cords and trim. All of these things are repairable conditions and
therefore the windows do not need to be replaced.
With this project, the windows were replaced before staff could look at them. The photos submitted with
the application don't show the type of deterioration they need to see to approve the replacement of
these windows. They can see that the storm window does not fit the window because they are filled in
with something above. They also see that there's some paint that's no longer there but they can't tell
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13, 2023
Page 4 of 8
the condition of the windows. They can see that there's been questionable glazing, but the staff
recommendation would probably be that the windows were not beyond repair.
Regardless, the windows are now gone so the project that is before the Commission is the fact that the
windows that they installed don't meet the requirements of the guidelines. The original windows were
double hung and the new windows are single hung, the new windows are vinyl instead of wood or metal
clad wood, the new windows are just a single light sash instead of a 5 over 1 or 6 over 1 like the front
window, and in addition they don't meet the requirements that they are the same size as the existing
window because they used what's known in the construction industry as a pocket replacement window
which is an entire window and frame that sits within the frame of the original window and reduces the
size of the view out. Bristow stated they don't approve pocket replacements when people want to
replace a window because it's fairly invasive and tend to approve sash replacement first. She
explained in this situation there were multiple things about these windows that they could not approve,
the single pane of glass and the fact that it's smaller are just a few.
Bristow stated this application was deferred from last month because they're working with the owners
who have been responsive but do live out of state. The owners have notified Bristow that they do agree
with the staff recommendation included in the staff report.
The first recommendation included in the staff report is to replace the windows with vinyl windows,
which staff recommends denying because those windows do not meet guidelines. By denying the
recommendation it allows the owners to appeal if they want.
Staff has made a recommendation that allows the Commission some leniency with the approval of the
project. The Commission could decide to approve the replacement of all the windows with windows
that would follow the guidelines but staff allowed for the leniency by making a recommendation that
replaces the windows on the front of the house with new windows that follow the guidelines right away
and replaces the other vinyl windows as they fail with windows that match those on the front. This
takes away any misunderstanding that they can continue to use vinyl in the future when they
need to replace the windows.
Stork asked long vinyl windows usually last. Bristow replied it varies but they often have a limited
warranty of maybe ten years, but will actually last longer depending on if they are solid vinyl or vinyl
clad and how they are cared for.
Beck asked what the consequence is if the owner refuses the staff recommendation and doesn't
replace any of the windows. Bristow stated it's a violation of the zoning code and they will be fined.
Sherry DeGraw was a former commissioner on the Historic Preservation Commission and is now with
the Friends of Historic Preservation and noted if the owners go against what they're supposed to do the
City has the ability to not give them more future building permits until they correct the problem that
needs addressing.
Brown stated part of their charge is trying to make historic relevance enticing so homeowners want to
do it because it's better and it sounds like the homeowners are receptive to this alternative.
Sellergren noted there is a real possibility that no new homeowner will come along and want to
completely rehabilitate a historic home and with this compromise there's the potential that the home
could actually be brought back to some kind of splendor.
MOTION: Brown moves to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 511 South
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13, 2023
Page 5 of 8
Lucas Street, as presented in the application. Sellergren second.
A vote was taken and the motion was denied on a vote of 0-7 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
MOTION: Beck moves to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 511 South
Lucas Street replacing the windows on the front of the house with new windows that follow the
guidelines and replacing the other vinyl windows as they fail or before with windows that match
those on the front. Stork seconded.
Brown asked if this house is sold or the ownership changes does this Commission or the City office
track these type of projects. Bristow confirmed that part of her process on reviewing a project is to go
back and look these up and note sometimes things are approved with conditions that affect things in
the future.
A vote was taken and the motion carried on a vote of 7-0 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF
Certificate of No Material Effect -Chair and Staff review
HPC23-0032: 1409 Sheridan Avenue — Longfellow Historic District (front and side porch repairs):
Bristow stated this is a cute little bungalow that's right along the creek, it has a screen in porch where
they tried to work with the architecture and now it has some porch repairs needed and some of the
railing will be replaced and just some other basic porch repairs.
Minor Review -Staff review
HPC23-0033: 428 East Jefferson Street — Jefferson Street Historic District (site stair replacement and
porch stair repair):
Bristow stated this is a Foursquare that used to have an open porch, it's covered in metal siding, and
they need to work on their front steps. She noted the guidelines are clear that a wood porch has wood
stairs and a concrete porch would have masonry or concrete stairs. Therefore, they cannot approve
the porch stairs as concrete again and they'll have to be wood if replaced so they're repairing them so
they can remain concrete for now. The stairs in the yard will be concrete again.
HPC23-0035: 420 North Linn Street — Northside Historic District (front stair and railing re lacement :
Bristow stated this property shows up on the 1868 bird's eye view map of Iowa City so it was built
before that. The 1899 Sanborn map shows that it is pink which means that it is brick and it has two
individual porches which would have had separate roofs. Historically it was clad in wood siding. Over
time they've combined the porches and added asbestos siding over the wood siding. It originally was a
duplex. The current project is just to replace the steps, the railing on the deck is not being replaced
right now.
Intermediate Review —Chair and Staff review
HPC23-0022: 28 South Linn Street Old Post Office)— Local Historic Landmark in the Iowa Cit
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13, 2023
Page 6 of 8
Downtown Historic District (exterior rehabilitation, cleanina, repairs, and reconstruction)
Bristow stated this is the senior center, which was the Old Post Office, and it is going to go through a
thorough exterior rehabilitation. They have hired a historic preservation architect, Pete Franks from
Frank's Design Group out of western Iowa. They came through and did a thorough study of the
condition of the building and discovered some very interesting things. One was the fact that the
building itself is constructed out of brick, the limestone is just a thin face material that covers the whole
thing. Also fascinating is the way they constructed the piers, they are just exposed brick on the roof
side and there's no cladding or limestone covering over that. She noted bricks have mortar joints and
mortar joints fail and need to be repointed. The overall condition assessment showed that the whole
railing system and those piers are falling outwards because as the brick has been repointed and the
joints have expanded because of significant water infiltration. Therefore, the entire railing will come
down and be reconstructed and all of the limestone cladding of the piers will be reset.
Bristow shared the architect's drawings to give a scope of work for the exterior project. It is a basic
repair, restoration and rehabilitation of the exterior envelope of the existing 1929 building. They'll
dismantle and reconstruct the existing limestone parapet piers to correct for out of square and out of
plumb conditions, reconstructing with reinforced CMU cores, meaning they'll put steel reinforcement in
the cores of the concrete block. They'll install a new membrane roof and then do a full exterior veneer
restoration. Individual wall pieces will be replaced with a new limestone that matches the existing.
Regarding the stone, the only thing that was questionable from a staff point of view is that they had
proposed to use some sealant with masonry that is highly controversial because it can prevent the
stone from breathing so water that gets in there can be trapped and cause the stone to burst apart
when it freezes. Guidelines disallow sealant and the National Park Service treatment for masonry also
would disallow that so staff asked the architect about the amount of staining and deterioration and they
are actually only to put sealant on the top surface of the cornice, allowing the rest of that stone to
breathe so staff did feel that that was an appropriate installation. Bristow noted all of the modern
windows will be replaced but not the trim, they will just be repairing all of the wood trim. The windows
were replaced when it became the senior center with ones that didn't match the historic windows, so
now they will replacing all of the windows with windows that follow guidelines and match the historic
configuration. The storefront doors will be replaced as well because they've reached the end of their
lifespan.
HPC23-0031: 625 South Governor Street — Governor -Lucas Street Conservation District 8 -foot rear
fence):
Bristow stated the owners are putting in a fence around most of their rear yard that will be eight feet tall
It will be a solid fence and will be painted with a mural on one side, as the owner of this house is an
artist. The house next door has an extensive 1960s apartment building attached to the back with a
parking lot so most of the fence will go between the parking lot and their yard and then back along the
alley which is a heavily traveled alley. It came to staff for review because it was taller than six feet and
needed a permit.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JUNE 8. 2023:
MOTION: Villanueva moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's
June 8, 2023, meeting, as written. Stork seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-
0 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
July 13, 2023
Page 7 of 8
Bristow welcomed new commissioner Andrew Lewis. Lewis stated he has lived here for quite some
time, he came here for grad school moved into a house on Davenport Street, so in Goosetown. He
now works at the University in the Center for Language and Culture Learning.
Commission Officer Election
Bristow stated they need to have an election of officers, for both Chair and Vice -Chair. She explained
basically the role of the chair is to run the meeting and if the chair is not available the vice chair will step
in. Also every time they have a certificate of no material effect or an intermediate review Bristow will
send the chair an email and the chair will either respond or call if there are questions. They also talk
about what's on the agenda in advance, but how much contact or how much the chair wants to be
involved is up to them.
MOTION: Brown moved to appoint Sellergren as Commission Chair. Beck seconded the
motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
MOTION Villanueva moved to appoint Stork as Commission Vice Chair. Brown seconded the
motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0 (Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
Signage at 942 Iowa Avenue
Bristow stated per the Civil Rights Grant in 2016 they put two properties on the National Register and
put up informative signage out in front of them. The signage in front of 942 Iowa Avenue was damaged
so they've taken it down to get it repaired. She wanted to make the Commission aware of this because
she has gotten calls about the missing signs which right now are in the office of the street's
superintendent and once they are fixed they will put them back up.
Bristow noted their awards are coming up and very soon she will schedule a meeting for the committee.
Since it's the 40th anniversary of the awards they are asking Channel 4 to do a little video. If anyone
on the Commission wants to help with that part of the project let Bristow know. The awards will be held
September 28th at the Highlander.
Brown noted he and Stork spoke briefly after the June meeting about the idea of adding an educational
component so if everyone wants can be put it on a future agenda in the Commission discussion section
and they can brainstorm about topics.
ADJOURNMENT
Thomann moved to adjourn the meeting. Beck seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0
(Wagner & Welu-Reynolds absent).
The meeting was adjourned at 6:26 pm.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD
2022-2023
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
--- = Not a member
TERM 7/14
8/11
9/8
10/13 11/10
1/12
2/9
4/13
5/11
6/8
7/13
NAME
EXP.
1-3/22
BECK,
6/30/24
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
MARGARET
BOYD, KEVIN
6/30/23
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
0/E
X
X
--
BROWN,
6/30/23
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
CARL
LARSON,
6/30/24
X
O/E
O/E
O
KEVIN
X O/E X
SELLERGREN,
6/30/22
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
JORDAN
X X O/E
X X X
STORK, NOAH
6/30/24
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
THOMANN,
6/30/23
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
DEANNA
I
X I X X
VILLANUEVA,
6/30/25
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
NICOLE
WAGNER,
6/30/23
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
FRANK
WELU-
6/30/25
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
REYNOLDS,
CHRISTINA
LEWIS,
ANDREW
__
-_
-_
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
X
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
--- = Not a member
Item Number: 4.g.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Human Rights Commission: June 27
Attachments: Human Rights Commission: June 27
Approved Minutes
Human Rights Commission
June 27, 2023
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Bijou Maliabo, Jahnavi Pandya (via Zoom), Roger Lusala, Ahmed Ismail, Doug
Kollasch, Kelsey Paul Shantz, Sylvia Jons (via Zoom), Suyun Channon.
Commissioners absent: None.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers, Veronica May.
Recommendation to City Council: No.
Meeting called to order: 5:35 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Kollasch read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public comment of items not on the agenda: None.
Approval of meeting minutes of May 23, 2023: Kollasch moved, and Paul Shantz seconded. Motion passed
7-0.
Outreach and Engagement Update from Police Department: May reported on the activities of the
department that included Coffee with a Cop, providing department tours, and a program that featured the
Mexican consulate for the state of Iowa. Upcoming events include Emergency Services Summer Camps, a
Coffee Connection with the South of 6 Business District, and a hydrant party with Parks and Recs. The
Department is also working on coordinating several community events for National Night Out.
Request to change the name of the Native American Land Acknowledgement to the First Nations Land
Acknowledgement: Pries asked for the commission to work with members of the Ad Hoc Truth and
Reconciliation Commission to change the name to First Nations, which Pries considers to be more
accessible whereas Indigenous, in his opinion, is more professional. One of the original authors suggested
changing the title to the actual tribes of this area and so it would be titled "The loway, Sac and Fox Land
Acknowledgement". Paul Shantz and Jons will work with Great Plains Action Society on reviewing the land
acknowledgement and looking at actual restorative measures the Commission can take to make it not just
performative but action oriented.
Commission Committees:
Breaking Bread — No update.
Reciprocal Relationships —Channon looks forward to this committee working on Welcoming Week which
will be held on September.
Building Bridges — No update.
Statement on Sudan: Commissioners reviewed the statement and agreed that the Center for Worker
Justice for Eastern Iowa should be added to the list of area resources. Commissioners also will ask that the
City Council do a proclamation that discusses the current situation in Sudan. Ismail moved, and Channon
seconded. The motion passed 8-0 to release the statement.
2023 Immigrant Entrepreneurs Summit: Commissioners who wish to attend the Summit should let staff
know so that they can be registered. The Office is a sponsor of the event and invited Commissioners to
participate not just in the event but also as possible keynote speakers. Staff will follow up with organizers
to further discuss roles the Commission can play at the event.
Partnerships with Recreation Department:
a. Mental Health Celebration —October 14, RAL Social Hall (Maliabo, Pandya).
b. Indigenous Peoples Day — October 9, RAL Social Hall (Paul Shantz, Jons).
c. All Around the World —November 18, RAL Social Hall (Lusala, Maliabo, Jons).
Staff will send a response email to the Recreation Department and cc the Commissioners who wish to
participate in the planning of these events.
Social Justice Racial Equity Grants: Commissioners will reach out to each organization that received
funding to arrange a time for a site visit. Commissioners volunteered for the following agencies.
AI-Iman Center — Maliabo, CommUnity — Maliabo, Center for Worker Justice — Kollasch, Houses into
Homes —Channon, Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County— Ismail, Great Plains Action Society, Wright
House of Fashion — Lusala, Natural Talent Music — Pandya.
One Community One Book: The selection for this year is "The Farm" by Joanne Ramos. The University of
Iowa Center for Human Rights will host the author on Sunday, October 8 from 1:30 pm — 2:30 pm in room
C20 at the Pomerantz Center.
Announcements of commissioners: Lusala reported out on the Juneteenth and Pride events that occurred
recently in the community. Channon has been working on planning the "Welcome Week" along with Jons
both are excited about the upcoming events. Jons also mentioned that she is working on the ceremony for
the Goldberg Prize for Peace in the Middle East. Maliabo was in DC for three days for a United Nations
Convention, and while there she met with local elected officials in Congress. Paul Shantz spent the past
week in Columbia at a symposium "The Peace in Our Cities" that she helped to organize. It is a coalition of
22 cities and over 40 not -for -profits that are committed to reducing violence in cities by half by the year
2030. Paul Shantz also noted a book study on "Bleeding Out: The Devastating Consequences of Urban
Violence" written by Thomas Alt the book collects insight on violence reduction strategies in cities across
the United States. Pandya will be working on a project that is modeled after the United Nations to train
volunteers to assist in documenting health care within a community, particularly mental health. It is
sponsored by the University of Iowa Department of Public Health and will be held in August. Kollasch
expressed gratitude for the great job Iowa City Pride always does for the annual Pride event.
Announcements of staff: Staff reminded commissioners to submit their profiles so that they can be
featured in The Lens newsletter.
Adjourned: 6:51 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://citychanne14.corrsfvideo.html?series=Local%2OGovernment.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP•
1/24
2/28
3/28
4/25
5/23
6/27
7/25
8/22
9/26
10/24
11/28
Roger Lusala
2023
P
13
P
P
P
P
Bijou Maliabo
2023
P
P
P
P
P
P
Kelsey Paul Shantz
2023
P
P
A
P
P
P
JahnaviPandya
2024
P
P
A
P
P
P
Sylvia Jons
2024
P
A
P
P
P
P
Doug Kollasch
2024
P
P
P
P
P
P
Suyun Channon
2025
P
P
P
P
A
P
Ahmed Ismail
2025
P
P
P
P
P
P
Vacant
2025
-
-
-
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.h.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Library Board of Trustees: July 27
Attachments: Library Board of Trustees: July 27
Iowa City Public Library Boardof Trustees
Meeting Minutes
July 27, 2023
2na Floor - Boardroom
Regular Meeting - 5:00 PM
FINAL
Tom Rocklin - President Lucy Santos Green John Raeburn
DJ Johnk - Vice President Joseph Massa Dan Stevenson
Hannah Shultz - Secretary Claire Matthews
Members Present: DJ Johnk, Joseph Massa, John Raeburn, Tom Rocklin, Hannah Shultz.
Members Absent: Lucy Santos Green, Claire Matthews, Dan Stevenson.
Staff Present: Elsworth Carman, Sam Helmick, Jen Miller, Brent Palmer, Jason Paulios, Angie Pilkington,
Katie Roche.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. Rocklin called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. A quorum was present.
Approval of July 27, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda. Johnk made a motion to approve the July
27, 2023 Board Meeting Agenda. Shultz seconded. Motion passed 5/0.
Public Discussion. None.
Items to be Discussed. FY23 Strategic Plan Review. Carman said final numbers aren't yet ready for
every item on the report. The report does show how the library addressed the goals of the past three years.
Johnk asked when end of year data would be available. Carman said final budget and statistical reports will be
available at the next two meetings. Johnk shared an interest in reviewing them once available.
Raeburn noted the Library Use Policy and asked what the Conduct Database is. Carman said this is an internal
database that is used to record behavior incidents in the library. The database contains information such as
who was involved, what happened, photos, and suspension details. Raeburn asked who has access to it.
Carman said all library staff. Carman has had requests from patrons who want to see their own records and he
has worked with legal in these individual instances. The database has always been able to email everyone on
staff when an incident occurs but a recent update allows staff to print suspension notices based on the
documentation. Johnk asked what auditing looks like and gave the example of access to police or health
records. Johnk asked how do you close the loop on staff abusing access to this information. Carman shared we
cannot tell which staff are looking at the Conduct Database or from where. Carman shared confidentiality is
covered in orientation with all new staff and access to the Conduct Database is treated confidentially in the
If you will need disability -related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contactlen Miller, Iowa City
Public Library, at 319-887-6003 orjennifer-miller@icpLorg. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
same way library records are. Carman could not recall an issue with staff misusing the information stored but
it would be treated very seriously if it ever happened. Johnk asked about the library's data retention policy.
Palmer said data retention details are on the library privacy website but it does not include the Conduct
Database. Paulios said it is modified ad hoc. Johnk discussed data retention in his profession. Paulios said there
have been instances of patrons in the database who have passed away, which are handled once staff are
aware of the situation.
Rocklin noted the importance of strengthening assessment and evaluation of programs. Rocklin asked Carman
if he could provide an example of an action that was taken from data in surveys. Carman said when reopening
the library after COVID there was concern about browsing the collection, survey data led to the creation of
Staff Picks ... Just For You. Rocklin said that was a great example.
Pilkington and Helmick entered at 5:10 pm.
Raeburn asked what stricter terms initiated for expiring titles meant on page 15 of the report. Carman said
because of budget constraints and increased collection use staff adjusted how often a material is repurchased
based on use of the material or digital expiration. Raeburn said it was a sensible change for items not being
used. Raeburn said it is clear other libraries are struggling with this and asked if this was an initiative ICPL
should address. Carman said as COVID started Anne Mangano was involved in the conversation but as other
issues have arisen it shifted to a different level of urgency. Helmick shared they have been working with a
conservative representative in Iowa to draft an eBooks bill to begin the conversation. Carman said the next
step would be to ask Mangano to outline what the current national conversation looks like in a report.
Board of Trustees Annual Report. Rocklin shared this is a report that goes to the City of Iowa City and was
drafted by staff. Carman said staff intentionally bring this report to the Board in advance of the deadline for
review. Johnk loved the intentionality of the verbosity and felt the present company was often too humble.
Rocklin agreed the accomplishments were all things that were done. Shultz asked about the date of the
intellectual freedom statement. Carman believed it was done in FY22. Rocklin said February 2022. Rocklin
suggested bringing the annual report to the next meeting as three members were missing.
FY23 NOBU Budget Request. Rocklin noted a revision was made. Carman removed the Board recognition
event and moved those funds ($1,500) into staff learning, with the intention to use these funds for a
Leadership Retreat in late 2023. Rocklin said the Board will join the Leadership Team at a staff retreat for
recognition. Raeburn noted OCLC was a nonprofit company being replaced by a for profit company and asked
why it was being replaced. Carman said Mangano is the most informed on this but was absent. Johnk said the
intent was to explore options as a pilot program. Johnk made a motion to approve the FY23 NOBU Budget
Request. Raeburn seconded. Motion passed 5/0.
Staff Reports. Director's Report. Carman discussed the position study and noted Rocklin attended the
consultant presentation. Carman shared ALA President, Emily Drabinski, visited Iowa City. Carman said the
Intercultural Development Inventory is an optional opportunity for Board participation. Carman said if the
Board participates the Library Leadership Team could as well.
Departmental Reports. Adult Services. Paulios noted the graph and photos in his report. Paulios noted the
new Adult Day Camp program had many 20-year-olds, a demographic the library doesn't typically reach.
Rocklin asked about information request data. Paulios said information requests are tracked for the State
Library. Traditionally Inter-library loan (ILL) requests are reference questions that get tracked with the same
weight as true reference questions. Paulios noted ILL's were down this year which effected reference question
data. Paulios said Post-COVID has also had an effect and noted patrons are more self-sufficient with tools like
ChatGPT. Paulios said staff need to track State requirements but also need to think about the other statistics
we are working on. Paulios said incoming phone calls are down at the Switchboard in general, nationally
If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact Jen Miller, Iowa City
Public Library, at 319-887-6003 orjennifer-miller@icpLorg. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
phone calls are trending high. Paulios said patrons learned during the COVID reopening to go to the
Information Desk to get guest passes instead of the Page Station. Pilkington asked if this is library wide data.
Paulios said no, just adult services and explained every service point has their own totals. Carman said he
doesn't think this data veers away from national trends and part of the gate keeping in librarianship has
shifted to providing access. Paulios said the next goal is tracking how time is spent. Paulios said summer has
been busy. Helmick said the ease of checking out an item has made room for new questions on the
Bookmobile.
Community & Access Services. Helmick is proud of the library team and has hired four new part time staff.
Helmick is excited about new collaborations with Southeast Junior High for teens and tweens. Helmick shared
social media statistics are up. Carman shared the NOBU budget will allow staff to pay for digital evaluation
tools to learn more about our social media footprint. Johnk noted bus rides will be free in August and asked
how it will affect library foot traffic. Helmick said staff are changing language from ride and read to read, ride,
repeat. Rocklin said funding for free bus rides is only for two years. Carman said not surprisingly feedback from
patrons has included people tearing up. Carman is proud of Transit and the City of Iowa City.
Miscellaneous: News Articles. None.
President's Report. Rocklin attended the position study meeting with the consultant as he is responsible
for signing off on the Director's questionnaire. Rocklin has sat through many position studies and felt this one
was effective and informative. Carman and Rocklin had a conversation about a finance committee and Rocklin
invited Trustees to share ideas with him to make it more effective. Rocklin noted the cultural development
opportunity was free and encouraged trustees to sign up for it.
Announcements from Members. None.
Committee Reports. None.
Communications. None.
Consent Agenda. Massa made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Johnk seconded. Motion
passed 5/0.
Set Agenda Order for August Meeting. Rocklin shared the August agenda will have 4th quarter
financials and statistics, a policy review, the memorandum of agreement between the Friends Foundation and
the Library Board of Trustees, and the Board Annual Report.
Rocklin shared he has chaired Boards in the past and has become known for running quick meetings. Rocklin
said he intends to slow down this time. Shultz asked about the Johnson County representative status. Rocklin
said the Library Bylaws and the Library contract with Johnson County are in conflict about what it takes to
appoint a Johnson County representative on the Board. City of Iowa City legal believes the Johnson County
contract to be the more binding of the two. The Johnson County Board of Supervisors agree Robin Paetzold
can continue on in another term but this has not yet been presented to City Council. Rocklin expects that this
will go through in August and Paetzold will rejoin the Board in August as a representative of the county.
Rocklin intends to revise the Library Bylaws so the two documents match.
Adjournment. Rocklin adjourned the meeting at 5:44 pm.
If you will need disability -related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting, please contact Jen Miller, Iowa City
Public Library, at 319-887-6003 orjenn ifer- miller@ icpL org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
Board of Commissions: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
Name
Term Expiration
9/22/2022
10/27/2022
11/17/2022
12/15/2022
1/16/2023
2/23/2024
3/6/2023
3/23/2023
4/27/2023
5/25/2023
6/22/2023
7/27/2023
8/24/2023
Johnk, DJ
6/30/2025
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
IKim, Noa
6/30/2027
OE
R
R
R
R
R
R
(Kirsch,
6/30/2023
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Caro)
(Massa,
6/30/2027
X
X
XX
X
X
Jose
(Matthews,
6/30/2023
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claire
Paetzold,
6/30/2023
X
OE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Robin
Raeburn,
6/30/2027
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jahn
Rocklin,
6/30/2025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
"
Tom
Santos
Green,
6/30/2029
OE
X
Shultz,
6/30/2025
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
1�annah
Stevenson,
6/30/2027
X
X
X
X
X
X
O E
X
XDarnel
KEY:
X
PRESENT
O
ABSENT
OE
EXCUSED ABSENT
NM
NO MEETING HELD
R
RESIGNED
TE
Term Expired
Item Number: 4.i.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Z%--_ �=Pa COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Parks & Recreation Commission: July 12
Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: July 12
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED
MINUTES OF JULY 12, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Alex Hachtman, Rachel McPherson, Melissa Serenda, Brian Morelli,
Aaron Broege
Members Absent: Connie Moore, Missie Forbes
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Matt Eidahl, Gabe Gotera
Others Present: Sue Protheroe, Mitzi Read, Justin Fishbaugh, Jill Fishbaugh, Carin Crain, Marc
Cannon, Anne Stapleton, John Downer
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Morelli, seconded by Serenda, to approve the May 10, 2023, minutes. Motion passed 5-0
Moore and Forbes absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Sue Protheroe, speaking on behalf of City Park Pool: Back to the Future, thanks Dir. Juli Seydell
Johnson, City Mgr. Geoff Fruin, & the City Council who have met with members of the steering
committee, listened to their vision plan, and offered good advice and public engagement. Protheroe says
that CPP: BTF members have been thinking about the public outreach meeting that Parks & Rec staff are
planning for Phase 2, should the City Council decide to rebuild City Park Pool, which Brad Barker
referred to as an open house in his council presentation on June 20. Protheroe suggests, regarding the
format, to benefit the community and bolster the integrity of the public engagement process, to have a
meeting with breakout groups of community members, Parks and Recreation Commission members,
department staff members, and design team members, where each group would select a facilitator and a
recorder to discuss a standard set of guiding questions focused more directly on user and design issues.
After a predetermined amount of discussion time, a spokesperson from each table could share salient
points with the large group. Protheroe says that the advantages of this format are that community
members would have an opportunity to hear one another's ideas, community members would feel heard
and that they had participated in the process in an authentic way, and that staff and consultants would
have the opportunity to hear community ideas in a setting that has a lab dialogue. Protheroe proposes that
if this process works, then another meeting could follow the presentation of the three pool designs.
Protheroe says that she is speaking to the Commission about this now rather than in September because
she knows how quickly a plan can be locked into place.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 2 of 10
Anne Stapleton begins by welcoming both Commissioner McPherson and Commissioner Broege to the
Parks and Recreation Commission. Stapleton thanks department staff, Gabe Gotera for helping her earlier
in the week with a cheerful attitude. Stapleton states that she is a solution -oriented person, but that there is
no problem with the RAL pool yet. Stapleton says that for the past 19 months, administrators have only
allowed access into the RAL pool on limited hours, which currently are Monday -Friday 2.75 -hour & 2 -
hour periods, Saturday until noon, and Sunday evenings. Stapleton reminds the commission that the RAL
pool is a treasure valued by Iowa Citians as shown by the 1,100 signature documents from Summer 2022
supporting the maintenance and improvement of the pool and survey respondents from the Recreation
Masterplan who ranked Aquatics number one above all other programs and preferred the downtown
central location for accessibility. Stapleton says that she has been a swimmer at RAL pool for 37 years
and that the location has always been very popular with swimmers, with swimmers having to wait for an
available lane multiple times during the current summer season. Stapleton states that there were 21
swimmers in the 6 -lane pool that same day. Stapleton lists a series of problems caused by the current
scheduling, no downtown swimming for folks after a traditional work shift, Mercer Pool closing for a
swim meet leaving no indoor pool, children need to learn to swim but are unable to tolerate the Mercer
pool temps, all of which could be solved by extending open swim hours at RAL pool to the same as at
Mercer pool. Stapleton says that the numbers provided by staff do not equate to the actual number of
people in the pool at a given time, encouraging the commission to look at the July pool numbers when
released to see if it includes her observation of 21 pool users at noon on July 12, 2023. Stapleton asks the
commission to not make decisions about limiting the pool hours based on numbers provided in the
commission agenda packets.
Carin Crain starts by addressing a common goal between the department and herself, that everyone needs
the opportunity to learn how to swim. Crain states that she is concerned that the department is missing
key opportunities to achieve this goal. Crain says that when walking into the RAL facility, there is no
indication that swim lessons are offered. Crain says that she attends the family swim nights on Sundays
and Saturdays, where there are many children all in life jackets, pointing out that children love to be in the
water but do not know how to properly swim. Crain says that the number of children that know how to
swim can be increased by publicizing the availability of swim lessons either throw signage, emails, or
even a staffed table at the family swim nights. Crain says that she has two school -aged children in the
system that have taken swim lessons but that she has never received any email from Iowa City Parks and
Rec about swim lessons. Crain asks the commission if they truly want every child to know how to swim,
then why is the commission not taking every step possible to publicize this. Crain refers to a New York
Times article on drowning deaths, stating that while drowning deaths has gone down, this statistic is still
high for children of color which the department can address by offering more swim lessons. Crain says
that she hears that the swim lessons are commonly full but talks about how in March 2023 there were still
opening in Level 2 & Pre -School swimming lessons. Crain says that now there are openings in Level 4, 5,
& 6 swimming lessons, which are a result of kids taking the earlier lessons but not persisting to a higher
degree of water safety.
ROBERT A. LEE POOL FALL 2023 HOURS — Asst. Supt. of Recreation Matt Eidahl
Dir. Juli Seydell Johnson introduces Assistant Recreation Supt. Matt Eidahl. Seydell Johnson explains
that this item is not typically something that the commission would actually weigh in on and that
ultimately it is a staff or administration decision. Seydell Johnson elaborates that is not something that
would be recommended to the city council but rather to the department staff, and that the item was added
to the agenda due to the amount of public input received. Seydell Johnson refers to the staff report,
pointing out that sets of numbers from both department staff and the Save RAL Pool group were provided.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 3 of 10
Assistant Recreation Supt Matt Eidahl says that the reasons for his presence at the meeting are not only to
speak as the person in charge of customer service staff at both RAL & MPAC but also as the member of
staff who pulls the numbers for open swim times. Eidahl states that since September of 2022, RAL Pool
has had open swim hours Mon -Fri 6:15am-9am & l lam- Ipm, Sat 6:15am-3pm, and Fri & Sun $2 swim
from 5pm-8pm. Eidahl states that Mercer Pool hours are Mon -Sat 6:15am-8pm, Sun 11 am-8pm, and Tue
& Thu $2 Swim from 9am-11 am. Eidahl says that since Oct 2022 he has been recording pool attendance
numbers which include pool pass scans, daily admissions, special events, private reservations, water
fitness classes, swim team counts, and water certification classes that are open to the public. Eidahl adds
that items that are not included in the count are internal certification classes and in-service training that
are closed to the public. Eidahl explains that this data allows staff to see how these facilities are being
used by the public and how attendance is distributed during open hours. Eidahl refers to the first graph in
the memo that shows the RAL average daily pool admission from 6:15am-9am has a consistent average
of 17.9 users, which were made using numbers pulled from ActiveNet but also numbers from the Save
RAL Pool group. Eidahl refers to the second graph showing RAL pool daily admissions from l lam- 1pm
which has seen the monthly average increase from 12 to 20.2 users. Eidahl notes that in the last 2 months,
there have been groups of 10-13 users utilizing the deep end during that time versus just the lap lanes.
Eidahl refers to the third graph showing the average daily attendance of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center
from 6am-9am, 9am-11 am, and 11 am -1 pm. Eidahl explains further that the MPAC 6am-9am averages at
22.6 users, the 9am-1 lam has increased from 19 users to 26, while the l lam- 1pm has increased from 12
users to 17. Eidahl believes that the sharp increase during the 9am-1 lam is due to the $2 swim which sees
a lot of different groups and families utilizing the shallow pool. Eidahl says that based on this data, the
Parks & Recreation department recommends that the 2023 Fall hours be consistent with the 2022 Fall
hours.
Seydell Johnson explains that what this item is regarding is setting the hours from September through the
end of winter break. Staff would re -look attendance figures around November to determine what to do for
the following semester's hours.
Commissioner Broege asks what numbers are not included in the pool attendance. Eidahl responds
numbers not included are staff training or when the pool is closed to the general public, such as
certification classes and in-service training.
Commissioner McPherson asks for clarification on the difference between the council and the
commission regarding this Item. Seydell Johnson explains that this is generally a staff decision, but that
staff has brought it to the commission to receive their advice/recommendation on how to move forward
since the item has received a large amount of public interest.
Commissioner Serenda asks for a reminder of what the limiting factor is that would prevent the pool from
being opened for longer hours. Seydell Johnson responds that when looking at pool operations, the
efficiency and effectiveness of lifeguards and staffing must be considered across the entire Aquatics
program, so originally the RAL hours were cut for low attendance and for putting resources where they
are being used. Seydell Johnson explains that staffing -wise, it costs about $75 for two lifeguards across
two hours, which at the time of the hours being cut, were being used for 1 or sometimes 0 swimmers. The
idea was that hours would be trimmed at RAL knowing that MPAC was still open during that time.
Serenda asks if there is anything that would prevent the department from opening a few days a week with
some expanded hours as a good faith demonstration to make the hours available as a test for the fall.
Seydell Johnson explains that that can be the Commission's recommendation to staff.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 4 of 10
Commissioner Broege asks if the staff sees a spike in lifeguards during the university school year. Seydell
Johnson says typically not enough to make a noticeable difference. Seydell Johnson adds that aquatics
supervisors are usually entering Fall schedules now, so staff that are hired or currently working already
know what they're going to be working.
Commissioner McPherson refers to the correspondence in the packet and asks if the same standard should
be used for measuring the pool attendance when the MPAC pool is 3x the size of the RAL pool. Seydell
Johnson says that she does not believe the size of the pool is important in consideration, but rather looks
at the pool on a granular level as the number of lifeguards present is the same between facilities. Seydell
Johnson says that past decisions had been based on the overall numbers at MPAC and keeping that
consistent. Seydell Johnson makes the point that the decision-making should not be one pool vs the other,
but more so how the department provides a service to the public, what other services are provided in
town, and how can recreation services be used to the most impact.
Commissioner Morelli asks for clarification on what the staff recommendation is. Seydell Johnson
answers that the staff recommendation is to keep the RAL hours the same as they currently are, 6:15am-
9am and 1 lam-Ipm, and return the evening hours to Fri & Sat after the summer swim season is complete.
Seydell Johnson says that not many people are looking for the Ipm-5pm hours as those hours see low
attendance across the board and that the more discussed focus is the RAL 9am-1 lam. Commissioner
McPherson asks about after -work hours for the RAL pool. Seydell Johnson says that typically swim
lessons take over the RAL pool during those hours.
Commissioner Morelli asks if the review is coming up, regarding the future of indoor pools. Seydell
Johnson explains that the current Item is regarding pool hours at RAL and that the discussion of
opening/closing of any indoor pools, until after City Park Pool is done at the end of 2025. In the
meantime, staff will be monitoring attendance numbers and making operational hours for the upcoming
fall season.
Chairman Hachtman opens Item 4 to Public Comment.
Carin Crain disagrees with the staff recommendation before giving a handout to the commission
members. The handout shows a graph comparing both the physical size difference between RAL Pool &
MPAC Pool and the attendance difference of early morning & midday sessions between the pools. Crain
uses the graph to state that on average there is only 2 more swimmer at MPAC Pool over RAL Pool,
while MPAC Pool has 3x the water surface, showing that it is MPAC Pool that is underused and that if a
cut should happen it should be MPAC Pool over RAL Pool, not that she wants any cut to happen at all.
Crain disagrees that MPAC Pool is cheaper since there should be more guards available for a larger
surface area pool. Crain states that that department has said that the RAL pool hours will increase if the
attendance increase, but that no exact number/goal has been stated. Crains says that when the target is not
known, having 2 fewer swimmers does not justify cutting open swim hours. Crain makes that point that
not as many swimmers will be attending RAL Pool, since if they arrive at 8:40am they will be kicked out
at 9am, while swimmers arriving at MPAC Pool at 8:40am could swim straight to Ipm. Crain does not
believe that the department's own data supports their staff recommendation and asks that RAL Open
Swim Hours at least be from 6am-Ipm. Crain compliments staff on the concept of the Pool & Pad Crawl,
but points out that it is scheduled at MPAC on a day that MPAC is closed.
Seydell Johnson clarifies that the Pool & Pad Crawl schedule has been correct on social media. Eidahl
explains that the MPAC event will instead be in Mercer Park with water balloons, activities, and an
inflatable slip -and -slide staffed by lifeguards.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 5 of 10
Marc Cannon says that this discussion has been happening for years and asks why the accuracy of the
numbers are still being discussed. Cannon says that he spends 2 hours, 3 days a week counting attendance
at RAL Pool and that he knows how to count, meaning that there is something radically wrong when it is
said that these numbers are not accurate. Cannon asks the commission members what their role in this
process is and why are numbers still being discussed. Cannon says that numbers are numbers before
asking the commission to take their time when considering that MPAC pool is 3x the size of RAL pool,
look at the averages, how are they derived, and why are there so many caveats.
Justin Fishbaugh asks Eidahl specifically why he can not find anything on the Recreation website talking
about what Matt discussed earlier regarding the Pool & Pad Crawl. Seydell Johnson & Eidahl explain that
the correction was made on social media where the initial post was made. Fishbaugh says that was the
only item he wanted to bring to staff s attention.
Seydell Johnson responds to the prompt, won't it take more lifeguards to cover a larger surface area pool
like MPAC, yes at a point if the pool were full. Seydell Johnson continues that the number of guards
necessary is comparable when both pools are not close to their overall capacity. Seydell Johnson says
when looking at the balance of resources, staff have to consider how to be efficient and effective with tax
dollars. Not only do pool numbers have to be analyzed, but also how the pool space is used. Seydell
Johnson refers to the increase of users during the RAL 11 a-1 p and says that about 8-10 of those users are
all condensed in the diving, leaving generally the same number of users in the lap swim area. Seydell
Johnsons says that capacity can still be increased in all areas of the pool, especially when the pools are not
near capacity. Seydell Johnson explains that how the pool is used is a factor when considering hours, and
it can be challenging to define a cut -and -dry attendance number to reach.
Seydell Johnson states that the department does advertise swim lessons and that most sessions are full.
Seydell Johnson details that not all classes are full now, but this is because after registration, if there is a
larger amount of people on a waiting list for a Level 2 class, but not much interest in a Level 4 class, the
call could be made to move the Level 4 instructor to Level 2 at a later date.
Commissioner Broege asks if the people in the RAL deep end for water aerobics are included in the pool
attendance counts. Seydell Johnson confirms that they are included in the counts.
Commissioner McPherson says that her recommendation would be to extend the RAL open swim hours
from 9am-1 lam. McPherson mirrors earlier conversation, that people wouldn't come to swim at 8:40am
if it were to close at 9am, quoting Robinson (1989) The Field of Dreams, "If you build it, they will
come". McPherson believes that Marc Cannon had made a fair point about the dedication of the people
who have been coming to talk about it for the last year and says that while she may not know the money
situation, believes it could be worth the tax dollars and that it won't be appeasing a small group of people.
McPherson comments on the unique nature of the central location for the pool and what it brings to the
community, having an incredible variety of programs and people present in the facility.
Commissioner Serenda agrees with McPherson and says that she feels that the commission has been
dealing with a lot of hypotheticals over the past year regarding whether more users would come if there
were more hours or if that growth just is not present. Serenda says that to her, someone not involved with
the staffing, it would be an easy test to open the pool from 9am-1 lam and perhaps the occasional evening
swim. Serenda states that if there is demand for those hours, then it should be evident after the hours are
provided which would provide more data for further seasons.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 6 of 10
Commissioner Broege says that both swim counts are showing a steady increase and that it would be
worth extending the hours just for the Fall/Winter of 2023 as a trial period to see if it affects attendance
Broege states that if the number goes up, then the argument is there to keep the extended hours.
Commissioner Morelli asks if there are any scenarios planned for extended hours and what these hours
would look like. Morelli believes that to get a solid sense of the matter, a change would have to be
implemented for every day of the week, as opposed to only extending hours for 1 or 2 days of the week
Seydell Johnson says that staff would strive for consistency in a pool schedule and would either extend
hours as either Mon -Fri, Mon & Wed & Fri or Tue & Thu. Seydell Johnson agrees that only having
extended hours for one day would be difficult, especially in terms of staffing.
Chairman Hachtman says that the commission seems to be leaning towards adding a consistent schedule
of extended pool hours for a trial period, to get a better indication of the data. Hachtman asks if there are
any ways to poll swim users for their preferred extended hours. Seydell Johnson replies that a survey this
late in prep for the Fall season would not see the results in time to make the schedule. Seydell Johnson
says that if the commission is wanting to do the 2 -3 -day extension, then staff can look over the pool
counts by day to determine the best trend to follow, or the commission could recommend extending for
the 5 days of the week. Commissioner Morelli asks if RAL open swim hours could match MPAC open
swim hours for the duration of the trial period. Seydell Johnson does not recommend the extension for the
afternoon hours. Commissioner Morelli asks about the budget impact and what the exact dates are for the
Fall 2023 season. Seydell Johnsons states that the extra 2 hours would cost roughly an extra $75 a day
which she believes is worth it for a trial period. Seydell Johnson explains that the Fall hours would likely
begin the Tuesday after Labor Day through the beginning of the University of Iowa's winter break.
Seydell Johnson reiterates the recommendation to staff, as a trial period from the Tuesday after Labor
Day through the beginning of winter break, adding the Mon -Fri 9am-11 am hours and tracking attendance
to see how the numbers fare.
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Director of Parks & Recreation — Juli Sevdell Johnson
Parks and Rec Month: Dir. Seydell Johnson announces that July is National Parks & Recreation month,
which was recently proclaimed in Iowa City. Seydell Johnson says that there will be a full-time all -staff
training over the lunch hour planned for the following day. Seydell Johnson invites the members of the
commission to attend and meet staff from all department divisions. Assistant Supt. Eidahl encourages the
commission members to stay past Ipm after the training to see the Mercer Park Hydrant Party.
Project Updates: Seydell Johnson gives updates on several different department projects. The Mercer
Park Aquatic Center Entrance project is not going as smoothly as preferred, but that that is not unexpected
on this type of project. Several the concrete panels will have to be removed and repoured to ensure the
correct slopes for ADA standard. Seydell Johnson expects the current phase to be completed within a few
weeks. Seydell Johnsons announces that the Hunter's Run playground is completed and open for use.
Seydell Johnson says both Kiwanis Park and Happy Hollow Park are waiting for the playground to be
delivered before installation can be finished. Seydell Johnson explains that the contractors should be able
to complete the playgrounds before the contracted end date in October, but that more work completed by
now would be appreciated. Seydell Johnson praises Chadek Green Park, talking about how the
playground installation is complete and on the arrival of raised garden plots for accessibility. Seydell
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 7 of 10
Johnson says that the North Hickory Hill Shelter & Restroom project is behind due to a material delivery
delay. Seydell Johnson reassures that the project is still expected to be complete during the fall.
City Park Pool: Seydell Johnson says that consultants have been coming in and out of town for the past
week to look over City Park Pool, with a larger meeting with the entire consulting team scheduled for
next week. Seydell Johnson describes the Standing Water Test conducted when the pool was closed on
July 5, where the water pumps are turned off and the water level is observed. Over 12 hours, the pool was
seen to drop 5 inches. Seydell Johnson adds that this test was also conducted the week prior when the
pool was closed due to air quality, showing the same results. Seydell Johnson talks about the Dye Test,
where someone in scuba gear goes around the pool with red dye, aiming to find where the pool is leaking.
Seydell Johnson did not want to give a final report on the matter but confirmed that the pool is not
holding water very well. Seydell Johnson adds that the consultations have requested for staff incident
reports and maintenance logs to try and find any areas of the pools that have been consistently
problematic in the past. Seydell Johnsons believes that the project is on track for reporting to council
during either the August 15 or the September 5 City Council meeting, where a decision will be made to
either repair or replace City Park Pool.
Commission: Seydell Johnson announces that Commission Member, Doloris Mixon has resigned from her
commission seat to accept a paid job within the Parks & Recreation department. Seydell Johnson
elaborates that there are now 2 commission openings, the first spot being for Penandjo Lemoupa and is
expected to be appointed in August, while Mixon's spot is expected to be filled within 2 months.
Assistant Recreation Superintendent— Matt Eidahl
Sporting Goods Drive: Assistant Supt. Matt Eidahl explains that for National Parks and Recreation
Month, the department is sponsoring a Sporting Goods Drive, encouraging the community to donate new
or slightly used equipment to either the Robert A. Lee Community Recreation Center (RAL), the Mercer
Park Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym (MPAC), or City Park Pool. Eidahl explains that the equipment will
be collected for the entirety of July before being donated to kids in need or different neighborhood
groups.
Summer Events: Eidahl brings up the 50 events that are being hosted by the Recreation division over the
summer. These events include Tuesday night Rec n' Roll, Thursday night Party in the Park, Saturday
movie night, Water Wednesdays & Food Truck Fridays at City Park Pool. Eidahl elaborates on the
Recreation divisions involvement in bigger events like Arts Festival, Juneteenth, and the Block Party.
Eidahl closes by talking about a Recreation Division all -part -time -staff training at City Park Pool. Eidahl
says that the event was well received with about 230 part-time staff in attendance. Due to the number of
staff at the training, both MPAC and RAL closed at early at 6pm.
Chairman Hachtman asks if there are any specific equipment that staff are looking for. Eidahl responds
that they are acceptation anything from fishing gear to t -ball helmets and can be suited to any season of
the year. Commissioner McPherson asks if a rowing machine would be accepted. Eidahl responds that the
equipment would have to be suited for neighborhood kids and their interests, so a rowing machine is
likely not that fit.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 8 of 10
CHAIRS REPORT:
Chairman Hachtman announces his opportunity to accept the proclamation from Mayor Teague June 20
City Council meeting. The proclamation established July as Parks & Recreation month in Iowa City, IA.
Hachtman takes the moment to thank the individuals who came to speak to at the City Council meeting to
talk about City Park Pool.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner McPherson talks about spending time in the Oakland Cemetery, talking with staff.
McPherson says that the staff there are big tree people who want to put in the work to raise trees in the
cemetery, but that they are heavily limited by their budget. McPherson clarifies that while this is not
urgent, it would be worth it to see about having more trees present, adding to the beauty that is already in
the Cemetery.
Commissioner Morelli ask Dir. Seydell Johnson for more context about what's happening regarding the
Court hill Park Shelter. Seydell Johnson explains that the new shelter by the playground was installed and
that there are still plans for a smaller shelter by the basketball court. Seydell says that this project would
be installed by department staff and is waiting on materials, but that at this point, it is not likely to be
completed by the Fall season.
Commissioner Broege says that there is a lot of underutilized space in Scott Park, which could be used as
an opportunity to add additional amenities, such as a new park shelter or community garden plots. Seydell
Johnson explains that the largest open spaces in Scott Park are a part of the stormwater management
system for the Public Works department and by design floods regularly during a normal summer, making
it not viable for additional structures. Broege is glad that the space can be effectively used by the Frisbee
Golf league, given the circumstances behind Scott Park.
Commissioner Serenda makes note of the Pollinator Prowl event that she is enjoying. Serenda explains
that the event a wooden pollinator hidden in 16 parks across town, which members of the community are
encouraged to go and out and find before taking a picture to send in for a prize drawing. Serenda says that
the event is a fun way to get out and see some of the parks. Serenda comments that there are other parks
that have functionality in stormwater management and would be interested in learning more about them in
a future topic.
Commissioner Morelli brings attention to a "really cool" solar system installation along the bike trail
between Court Hill Park and McPherson Park with the planets in relatively correct distances. Morelli
explains that the project was a partnership with Willowwind School, with a lot of community members
checking it out. Seydell Johnson echoes Morelli's gratitude towards the school, crediting the students and
staff for reaching out to the department and for the planning of the installation.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 9 of 10
Commissioner McPherson refers to the prior May 10, 2023, Parks and Recreation Commission meeting
and asks if a consultation firm has been decided for the City Park Pool project. Seydell Johnson confirms
that lead firm is Williams Architects out of Chicago, joined by several sub -consultants. Counsilman-
Hunsaker is the primary aquatic sub -consultant and has experience with swimming pools in the Midwest.
Barry Dunn, who was part of the Recreation Masterplan will be helping with public input if the project
gets to that phase. Hitchcock design is the landscape architect on the team, who is also working on the
Mercer Athletic Field project.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chairman Hachtman calls the meeting to adjourn at 6:05 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 10 of 10
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
N
M
O
N
T
00
00
N
O
N
TERM
[�
�
00
01
N
N
M
V)
�
[-
EXPIRES
Aaron
12/31/24
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
NM
X
Broege
Missie
12/31/25
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
O/E
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
Forbes
Alex
12/31/24
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
Hachtman
Rachel
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
McPherson
Doloris
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
Mixon
Connie
12/31/25
*
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
Moore
Brian
12/31/25
X
O/E
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
Morelli
Boniface
12/31/23
O
O/E
O/E
O
O
NM
O
O
LQ
O
O
Penandjo
Lemou a
Melissa
12/31/23
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
Serenda
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
Item Number: 4.j.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Z%--_ �=Pa COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Planning & Zoning Commission: August 2 [See Recommendation]
Attachments: Planning & Zoning Commission: August 2 [See Recommendation]
I
�f"r CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: August 17, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner
Re: Recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission
At its August 2, 2023 meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission have the following
recommendations to the City Council:
By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommend approval of the proposed amendments to Title 14
Zoning as illustrated in Attachment 2 to enhance land use regulations related to improve
housing choice, increase housing supply, and encourage affordability with the exception of the
proposed amendments related to accessory apartments.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
MINUTES FINAL
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
AUGUST 2, 2023-6:OOPM—FORMAL MEETING
E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Susan Craig, Maggie Elliott, Mike Hensch, Maria Padron, Chad
Wade
MEMBERS ABSENT: Billie Townsend
STAFF PRESENT: Sara Hektoen, Kirk Lehmann, Anne Russett
OTHERS PRESENT: Jim Throgmorton, Lorraine Bowans, Donald MacFarlane, Wally
Plahutnik, Gregg Geerdes, Ellen McCabe, Tim Fleagle, Bob
Burchfield, Sharon DeGraw, Paula Swygard, Martha Norbek,
Nancy Carlson, Ross Nusser, Scott Hawes, Rebecca Kushner,
Karyl Bohnsack, Kelcey Patrick -Ferree, Mary Bennett, Mary Beth
Slonneger, Ginnie Blair
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommend approval of the proposed amendments to Title 14
Zoning as illustrated in Attachment 2 to enhance land use regulations related to improve housing
choice, increase housing supply, and encourage affordability with the exception of the proposed
amendments related to accessory apartments.
By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommend deferral of the proposed amendments related to
accessory apartments to the first meeting in October and requested that neighborhood
associations to be conferred prior to that meeting.
CALL TO ORDER:
Hensch called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None,
CASE NO. REZ23-0001:
Consideration of an amendment to Title 14, Zoning, to improve housing choice, increase housing
supply, and encourage affordability.
Elliott stated she had a conversation with Bob Miklo, former planning staff member, regarding
these zoning changes on Friday, July 21, the conversation centered on the implications these
new rules may have on older neighborhoods but she can be impartial regardless of conversation.
Russett began the staff report providing some background information and noted this process
started with City Council adopting its first Affordable Housing Action Plan in 2016. The Plan
identified 15 action steps including changes to zoning regulations and the changes to the zoning
regulations were the only action items that were not completed after its adoption. In 2019 the City
adopted a Fair Housing Choice Study which reviewed impediments to accessing housing
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 2 of 27
because of protected class, such as race, gender, or disability, as codified in the Federal Fair
Housing Act. This study included recommended actions to affirmatively further Fair Housing
based on extensive public inputs such as targeted feedback from stakeholder interviews, focus
groups, a Fair Housing Survey, public events and a public adoption process. One of the most
significant Fair Housing issues identified was a lack of affordable rental housing and improving
housing choice was one of the many strategies recommended to help address this issue. In 2022
the Affordable Housing Action Plan was updated to build off of previous efforts in support of
affordable housing. A number of public input sessions were held including a City-wide survey,
general outreach activities, targeted stakeholder meetings and other events. Later in 2022, the
City Council adopted the Strategic Plan, which drew upon previous planning work, studies and
community conversations. One of the action steps included in the Strategic Plan is advancing
prioritized recommendations in the 2022 Affordable Housing Action Plan. In addition to these
adopted plans and public engagements, there's been several meetings with this Commission. In
February 2023 staff from Neighborhood and Development Services provided a comprehensive
overview to the Commission of how the City works to address housing affordability and staff
discussed its efforts to support housing through financial incentives. Staff also presented an
initial summary of the proposed amendments that will be detailed tonight. In April, staff presented
the results of the 2022 Residential Development Analysis, which looked at housing development
over the course of the 2022 calendar year. This analysis determined that if residential growth
continues at its recent pace, the City will only be able to accommodate less than 6300 new
residents by 2030 when the projected demand is over 10,000 new residents. At the same
meeting, Councilmember Thomas presented the City Council Strategic Plan. Last month, staff
provided a comprehensive summary of the proposed zoning code amendments this Commission
will be considering tonight.
Russett stated housing affordability is a complex issue, there is no one solution and there are
many factors that influence housing affordability. The continued growth within the community
driven by the quality of life and strong economic base, in addition to a housing supply that is not
meeting the demand generated by this growth can result in continued high prices and rents,
which indicate there's an unmet demand for housing. When thinking about housing affordability,
there is a role for zoning. Zoning regulations can restrict development and act as a barrier to
create a diverse housing stock, or they can support and allow a diversity of housing options for a
community. Staff are proposing amendments to the code that help to ensure that zoning
regulations don't act as a barrier but instead allow and encourage a diversity of housing types.
The goals of the proposed zoning code amendments include increasing housing supply to meet
the current demand and increasing housing diversity to improve housing choice by removing
barriers for housing types that generally cost less than detached single family. Those can include
townhomes, duplexes, and accessory apartments. The City wants to incentivize income
restricted affordable housing through density bonuses and other tools, they want to address Fair
Housing issues to ensure persons with disabilities have equal access to housing and want to
implement the adopted Plans in place.
Russett presented a slide that showed the variety of Plans. In addition to the Comprehensive
Plan, the proposed amendments align with the adopted Land Use Policy direction as well as the
other plans already mentioned. Again referencing the Strategic Plan, the proposed amendments
are tied to the City's core value for racial equity, social justice and human rights. They're aimed
at removing and addressing systemic barriers present in all facets of City government, including
land use decisions, and also aligns with the Housing and Neighborhood impact areas which
encourages updating the zoning code to encourage compact neighborhoods and ensure a
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 3 of 27
diverse housing stock and addressing the unique needs of vulnerable populations in low to
moderate income neighborhoods. Finally, the Strategic Plan recommends advancing the
prioritized recommendations of the 2022 Affordable Housing Action Plan.
Lehmann presented the proposed amendments, noting in the staff report they received was a
very technical description and in this oral report he will try and describe them in more generally
understandable terms. Again, the way they are reviewing these proposed amendments is that
generally they are a prerequisite to enable the construction of housing units that tend to be more
affordable within the community than what's currently allowed. Again, this really complements
other programs that more directly subsidize low- and moderate -income households and
affordable housing that is rent and sale price restricted. But with that being said, it does also
include incentives to produce affordable housing that is income restricted and rent and sales
price restricted. Lehmann acknowledged there will still be barriers to affordable housing within
the community as this isn't something that will solve affordable housing, but rather trying to make
sure the zoning code is not one of those barriers to affordable housing within the community.
The proposed amendments are organized under five general categories; increasing flexibility for
a range of housing types, modifying design standards, providing flexibility to enhance the supply
of housing, creating regulatory incentives for affordable housing, and then also more generally
addressing fair housing. The first set of standards related to increasing flexibility for a range of
housing types includes four different proposed amendments with the purpose of providing for
flexibility of housing types to help increase the supply of housing and also increase the diversity
of housing types available with a focus on housing types that tend to be more affordable to lower
income households, especially in standard detached single-family zones. Lehmann gave a
summary of the proposed amendments, the first change would be to allow duplexes and up to
two attached single family uses more widely in lower density single family zones, specifically RS -
5 and RS -8 zones. Currently these uses are only allowed on corner lots. The second change is
to allow townhome style multifamily uses in higher density single family zones, which would be
RS -12 zones. Currently the code allows for up to six side by side single family townhomes but if
they're on a common lot it is currently not allowed. This would be allowing up to six side by side
multifamily townhomes on a single lot. The third change would be to allow second story
multifamily through a simpler process in certain commercial zones, specifically the CC -2 or
community commercial zone, and then also to enable the Board of Adjustment to allow ground
floor residential uses in commercial zones through a special exception which requires a certain
set of specific and general approval criteria are met. Generally the approval criteria are intended
to make sure that the commercial intent of the zone is maintained even with residential uses and
also to provide protections for historic properties. With a special exception, the general criteria
are generally related to impacts the surrounding property owners, compliance with the
Comprehensive Plan, making sure there are utilities, etc. The fourth change would be to treat
assisted group living more similarly to multifamily uses. Assisted group living are things like
congregate or nursing homes, generally they look similar to multifamily uses and act similar to
multifamily uses. This would allow these uses in more zones then currently allowed and in some
cases streamlines the approval for these uses in those zones, specifically in the low density
multifamily (RM -12) zone. Additionally, this change would no longer allow this use in the
intensive commercial zone, which is generally a zone that shouldn't accommodate household
living uses.
Lehmann then went into more analysis of each change. For allowing duplexes and up to two
attached single family uses more widely in lower density zones, the existing situation is that
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 4 of 27
these uses are only allowed on corner lots, but they do tend to be more affordable than the
detached single-family homes. The 2022 Affordable Housing Action Plan recommends
expanding where these uses are allowed from just corner lots to additional lots in lower density
zones. In terms of anticipated impacts, staff started by looking at existing parcels and although
they believe the primary impact will be in greenfield sites this is going to allow these uses more
readily and in more locations. Again, they would expect the primary impact to be greenfield sites,
but for existing areas it would allow some existing lots to possibly accommodate duplex uses. If
the use would be allowed in existing parcels will be based on lot size and lot characteristics. This
proposed change would allow up to a maximum of 2900 lots around the community to
accommodate duplex uses. In addition to this amendment being adopted, there is a lot size
reduction proposed later in the code that would decrease the minimum lot size required for
duplex use in a RS -5 zone from 12,000 sf to 10,000 sf which could allow up to an additional 2200
lots that could accommodate these uses. However, based on experience in zones that already
allow duplex uses within the zone, specifically the RNS-12 zone (a zone located predominantly
near downtown that does allow duplex uses already) they haven't seen substantial
redevelopment in that area over the past 30 years. Since 1992, five single family homes have
been demolished to build a duplex and that's only about 1 % of current parcels. Lehmann noted
what they've also seen over that time are more units converted from duplex to single family units
rather than vice versa. Again, staff believes this would be a modest change on existing parcels
with the primary impact being in newly developing areas. This change would also make it similar
to the new form -based zones the City has recently adopted. Lehmann showed a map of the
primary impact areas for those duplex uses, particularly where there could be new subdivisions
in greenfield sites but also some scattered through a number of areas located in older portions of
the City including areas near the Northside, Morningside, Twain, Longfellow, and Oak Woods
neighborhoods, as well as a substantial portion in the South District.
The second change is looking at townhome style multifamily uses in higher density single family
zones. Lehmann reiterated up to six attached single-family townhomes are already allowed but
this change will just allow it on a single lot. Reasons for this change are because it does
facilitate a flexibility in a range of housing types, it also can be more affordable while providing a
similar look from the street. He showed two images, one an attached two single family townhome
and another multifamily style townhome noting they look very similar from the street with the
main difference being the lot arrangement. In terms of anticipated impacts, staff doesn't
anticipate this would have a large impact on the number of units produced but does add that
flexibility in which can make that cost of construction a little more affordable.
The third change is looking at multifamily uses in commercial zones. Currently second story
commercial in the Community Commercial zone requires Board of Adjustment approval which
requires additional time and resources. Also, currently multifamily uses are not allowed on the
ground floor in most commercial zones (that is mainly restricted to Central Business zones). In
terms of the anticipated impacts of the proposed changes, it would simplify the process to allow
mixed-use buildings where there is commercial on the ground floor and residential above which
is called a vertically mixed-use building in important commercial centers. This would allow the
Board of Adjustment to approve multifamily buildings in most commercial areas as long as the
approval criteria mentioned in the packet are met, and that in turn facilitates what is called
horizontally mixed-use development, where they might have a single lot with a multifamily
building and a commercial building on it. In the past to allow those would require an OPD
rezoning or would require different zones with different parcels, so this simplifies that process as
well. Again, he showed on a map where these proposed amendment would be allowed as long
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 5 of 27
as they met the certain standards.
The final change in this category is to treat assisted group living uses more similarly to
multifamily uses. Lehmann reiterated assisted group living includes group care facilities like
nursing homes and assisted group living facilities. The standards for assisted group living uses
are generally more restrictive, but a best practice is to treat them similar to similarly sized
household living uses, which in this case that's multifamily. For example, Hickory Trails Estates is
a new assisted living use that's being built, it looks very similar to multifamily and has similar
impacts. In terms of the anticipated impacts, this would simplify the process to allow these uses
in lower density multifamily zones, specifically the RM -12 zone, and would allow group living in
all zones that allow multifamily which primarily expands it to commercial zones. This change
would also no longer allow group living uses in the intensive commercial zone.
Lehmann next reviewed the second set of proposed amendments related to modifying design
standards. In this category they have three different standards, the first is to eliminate two
multifamily site development standards to provide flexibility. He noted these are specifically
material standards such as currently multifamily uses must have a two -foot masonry and/or brick
base or it could be a dressed concrete base. The second is that facade materials must wrap
three feet around the corner of a unit. Reducing those material standards would increase the
flexibility allowed and would help reduce the cost of construction for those uses. The second
standard would be to adjust the design standard of duplex and up to two attached single-family
units in midblock locations, again specifically in those lower density residential zones. The
standard is the dwelling must be designed such that it would do so without having garages that
dominate the streetscape limiting garages to 60% of the facade and also limit to 20 feet
combined of garage face. Lehmann explained this would allow either one double wide garage
with two parking spaces or two independent single wide garages. He did note the garages could
be wider if they're setback 15 feet, similar to what is required in form -based zones, but that does
prevent them from dominating the streetscape. Additionally, if there is a rear alley they must
utilize it. The third/final standard is related to townhome style multifamily uses, again this is to
simplify the process by which a setback is reduced and replace a minor modification process
with just an administrative process, and that's tied to allowing those uses more liberally in the
RS -12 zone especially.
Lehmann stated this proposed amendment would affect multifamily group living and institutional
and civic uses in residential zones in the Central Planning District having to meet certain design
standards. However, the 2016 Affordable Housing Action Plan did recommend amending some
of these standards and as a result the two standards of the two feet of masonry or brick must be
around the base of the building, and that materials must wrap three feet around the corner of a
building would no longer be required. However, it does retain other standards that more directly
address the visual interest in a building which includes things like ensuring visible entrances,
affecting the scale of the building, standards related to balconies and exterior stairways. Other
standards related to building materials, standards related to mechanical equipment, and also
architectural style standards in the Central Planning District would continue to apply. Again, the
goal is to decrease the cost of construction and increase design flexibility without substantially
impacting visual interest.
The second standard is related to allowing duplexes and up to two attached single family uses in
midblock locations, specifically in lower density single family zones. The current requirement is
that each unit's main entrance and garage are restricted to different streets, built around the idea
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 6 of 27
that these uses have to be on corners. This proposed amendment is to change that and have a
mid -block location while achieving a goal to prevent garages from dominating the street. If it
were to have rear access, which is required if there was an alley, the garage size wouldn't be
restricted as it wouldn't dominate the streetscape in that case. Also, if it's setback 15 feet it could
have more than 20 feet of combined garage face however would still be restricted to 60% of the
total width of the fagade. The goal is to make sure that these are uses or standards that keep
compatibility while still allowing the mid -block duplexes.
Finally is simplifying the waiver for townhome style multifamily uses, specifically as it relates to a
parking setback. In the current code parking must be setback from streets through 15 feet of
building depth and they cannot build parking within the first 15 feet of building depth. This poses
a problem for lots that are on the corner where a unit would need additional building space
between that and the side street. Currently that can be waived by minor modification, but that
requires additional time and process which includes an administrative hearing notification period.
The proposed amendment allows a straight waiver of that side street lot line which as a result
has very limited impact. It's a very specific proposed amendment, but again is tied to facilitating
those townhome style multifamily uses, especially in areas where attached single family uses are
already allowed.
Lehmann moved onto the third set of proposed amendment changes that are tied to providing
additional flexibility to enhance the supply of housing. Again, there are three changes in this
category with the first reducing lot sizes for detached and attached single family and duplex
uses. This would specifically affect some zones, mostly lower density single family zones, but
does have some limited impacts on medium -density multifamily zones as well and would reduce
lot width and lot size for RS -5 and RNS-12 if there is rear access and only if there's rear access,
and it would reduce lot width for RM -12 and RM -20. For duplex and detached single family it
would reduce both lot size and lot width.
The second change would be to increase the bedroom limit for missing middle housing types
outside of the University Impact Area. Lehmann explained that would specifically be looking at
multifamily where there's currently a cap of three bedrooms for multifamily dwelling units and for
duplexes and single family detached there's currently a cap of four bedrooms for a dwelling unit.
This would increase that to four and five bedrooms respectively, specifically outside of the
University Impact Area.
The final change would be to allow and encourage accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in a broader
variety of contexts and to try to reduce barriers to construction. One of the reasons they're
focused ADUs is because they're a great way to increase housing supply without substantially
impacting the appearance of a neighborhood. A lot of these changes are based on those that are
recommended by the AARP, which has really encouraged ADUs in recent years and so has the
Housing Action Committee of the Johnson County Livable Communities Group, which includes a
number of stakeholders. Changes are things such as allowing these uses in any zone that allows
household living uses on any lot with two or less dwelling units. It would remove the requirement
that the unit be owner occupied and it would remove limits on the number of bedrooms and
residents as those would be capped by other standards that are in the rental code. This change
would allow increased size for these dwelling units, as long as they're less than half the size of
the primary use, it would remove the requirement for an additional parking space and also
simplify some design requirements.
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 7 of 27
Regarding the analysis of these proposed amendments, in terms of reducing lot sizes and
widths, the existing situation is there are many lots that were platted prior to 1962 that are non-
conforming as that was when the most substantial zoning code changed that increased the lot
sizes. Best practice is to reduce minimum lot sizes to perpetuate patterns of economic and
demographic segregation and it is also a best practice to reduce or minimize non -conformities
within the zoning code. In terms of the anticipated impacts, it wouldn't bring approximately 85%
of non -conforming lots in the RS -5 and RNS-12 zones into compliance with the zoning code and
around 300 lots would remain non -conforming in these zones but a lot of those are lots that are
flagged lots in historic areas. This also provides flexibility for the arrangements of lots in new
subdivisions, which includes smaller lots being allowed, especially in the RS -5 zone. For
example, in terms of the cost reduction that this could bring, assuming land prices are around $5
a square foot, the proposed reduction for an RS -5 zone could reduce the cost of construction by
approximately $10,000 so especially in lower price points that can be a significant factor in
affordability. Another impact is that reducing lot sizes for duplexes allows them on a wider variety
of existing lots. Lehmann showed some examples of areas of the City that were platted long ago
with smaller lots, like the Morningside neighborhood. It's low-density single family residential but
has 50 -foot lots with 7000 square feet lots. Again, approximately 300 lots wouldn't become
conforming even with these changes, those are mostly in Towncrest and in the Northside
neighborhoods where lot sizes are smaller than even the proposed standards, but it does bring a
substantial number of these non -conforming uses into compliance. Finally, this would also bring
new developments closer into alignment with what's allowed in a form -based zone since form -
based zones do allow duplexes in even the lowest density residential zone.
The second change would be to increase the bedroom limits outside the University Impact Area.
Currently the number of bedrooms are restricted for duplexes, attached single family and
multifamily uses City-wide and the problem with this is that the bedroom caps limit where large
households can live and pretty much limits them to detached single family housing, which does
increase housing costs for those household types and as a result the 2022 Affordable Housing
Action Plan did recommend amendments to these standards. The impacts of the proposed
amendment would be to allow the construction of units for larger families outside of the
University Impact Area in a wider variety of housing types. In addition, it would retain the
bedroom cap for the University Impact Area to avoid some of the situations that caused the
bedroom caps to be adopted in the first place.
The final change is related to encouraging accessory apartments in a variety of contexts and
reducing barriers. ADUs have been allowed in Iowa City for quite some time, more than 40
years, but over the past 30 years the development has been relatively limited. The City has only
52 ADUs when there have been 13,000 eligible lots under the current code. There are barriers
within the code and some of the barriers that have been identified by AARP are things like the
owner occupancy requirement and additional parking standards. In the 2022 Affordable Housing
Action Plan it recommended trying to promote or encourage where ADUs are allowed and
expanding those. There is also a large demand for smaller units as approximately 36% of
households in Iowa City are single person households and more than 40% of renter households
are single person households. In terms of anticipated impacts, staff doesn't anticipate that all
eligible units are suddenly going to provide ADUs but the goal is really to encourage their
development and reduce those barriers. The 13,000 parcels that are currently eligible will remain
eligible under the proposed amendment however, there are new parcels that would be able to
accommodate ADUs and they would imagine that would happen gradually, like any change. This
would include up to 1400 new units allowed by expanding the zones and uses to which these
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 8 of 27
may be accessory. For example, allowing them in RNS-12 zones or allowing them in other zones
that allow single family detached uses, and also allowing them accessory to duplex uses. In
addition, it would allow up to 3100 new units by removing the owner occupancy requirements.
With that being said many of the renter occupied detached single-family uses are located within
the University Impact Area so that is something to be mindful of. With the changes proposed it
would allow standalone accessory dwelling units, and it is imagined that that's how many of
these would be constructed, in addition to there being other barriers to construction. Even with
the City trying to remove as many barriers as possible, they still have to have conforming lot
sizes and meet the other standards in the code with regards to lot area, coverage standards, and
open space. Those standards wouldn't change, it's just allowing an ADU if there's room for it. In
addition, staff anticipates that allowing ADUs in more areas supports the City's sustainability
goals. By increasing housing supply in those areas, they anticipate that those are the most
walkable areas of the community. That also ties into reducing the parking space that's required
because that ties into the goals of encouraging alternative transportations. The City is really
trying to encourage walkable communities. Lehmann showed a map of the areas that would be
able to build ADUs and noted they are scattered throughout the community, a lot of them are
located lot downtown, but the goal is to encourage ADUs throughout the community and remove
as many barriers as possible.
The fourth set of standards is tied to creating regulatory incentives for affordable housing,
specifically focused on income restricted housing, also rent restrictions and/or sales restrictions
for owner occupied housing. This is tied to increasing housing choice, diversity, supply, flexibility,
and reducing cost. The income and rent levels are determined based on the current practice in
the City which is generally 80% of the area median income for owner occupied and generally
60% of area median income for renter occupied. Lehmann noted rents are tied to fair housing
market rents and sales limits are tied to HUD sales limits. The two proposed changes are
creating a density bonus for affordable housing units in conventional zones and that would be a
20% density bonus, or 20% of units are affordable housing for 20 years. It would allow additional
regulatory flexibility as well, specifically tied to setbacks and building height. The second
standard would eliminate minimum parking requirements for affordable housing, where that
housing is affordable for 20 years. It would only affect that 20% of units that are affordable, or as
many units as are affordable, it doesn't affect the market rate units in that development. In terms
of the impacts, a lot of these bonuses are already part of the RiverFront Crossings and form -
based zones that were recently adopted, especially density bonuses and parking reductions, but
they're not present in conventional zones. So, impacts would be to provide a voluntary incentive,
something that can encourage the construction of those income restricted affordable units, and
they'd be administered during the typical reviews. A lot of that would be site plan or building plan
review or it may be an OPD plan or subdivision depending on what standard is being requested.
The goal of additional units in terms of the density bonus is to provide additional rents that can
help offset the costs of affordable housing and density bonuses are one of the most common
affordable housing incentives seen in communities. Again, it may also provide flexibility for
setback and height standards, if those are needed, depending on the circumstance. Lehmann
noted there can also be a reduction in the minimum parking requirements to provide another
incentive by reducing the cost of providing those affordable housing units. Design flexibility is the
second most common incentive provided for affordable housing bonuses. The goal is to reduce
the cost and incentivize the construction of those income restricted units.
The final set of changes are related to addressing Fair Housing and are specifically focused on
persons experiencing disabilities. The first is related to providing a reasonable accommodations
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 9 of 27
process that is currently handled through disparate processes throughout the zoning code. It is
something that the City is required to do by Federal law, currently there just isn't a standardized
process that's clear and apparent, so this amendment is clarifying that process. It is best practice
provided as an administrative process and try to require as few hoops as possible for persons
experiencing disabilities so that it doesn't draw attention to their disability and doesn't become a
hurdle. The impact of the proposed amendment is to create a simple, comprehensive process to
evaluate all these requests and to reduce the need to call attention to the disability. The second
would be to reclassify community service long term housing uses as a residential use. Currently,
these uses are housing with supportive services for persons with a disability that are owned by
nonprofits. Currently, they're treated as institutional uses rather than residential uses and as a
result they're more restrictive in where they're allowed. Again, it is best practice to regulate
housing for persons with disabilities like similarly sized household living uses. By treating these
uses as residential the City would strike the community service long term housing use as a
distinct category and it would be allowed as a household living use, which would simplify the
process by which they're allowed and would also expand where they may be located. Group
living would also no longer be allowed in intensive commercial zones as it is determined that isn't
appropriate for household living uses. It would also eliminate some standards that are different
for this type of use. Currently, the standards have reduced parking requirements and increased
or higher density allowances for these zones. This would again treat them like any other
multifamily use if it was a multifamily building or be treated like a single-family use depending on
which kind of building the household use was located in. Lehmann noted currently there are only
two properties that are in this category and they're both owned by Shelter House. They would
become legal non -conforming uses and while it is best practice to create as few non -conformities
as possible within the zoning code, the purpose of treating housing for persons with disabilities
similarly to residential uses outweighs that creation of a non -conforming use in staff's opinion.
Staff did discuss this with Shelter House leadership and stated these uses would be allowed to
continue as they currently are allowed, they'd just become a non -conforming use. If the use was
terminated, it wouldn't be allowed to re -open. The proposed amendment also does specify the
supportive services that are accessory to a use, and that only serve the residents of a building,
would be allowed in a household residential zone. So, on a smaller scale, there could be a case
where someone has household help that lives with them and provides assistance or in a larger
use it could be a case where there's supportive services that help them live within their housing
unit, whether that be employment services or other things. However, since people come from off
site to use those services, it would become a broader separate use that would no longer be
allowed.
Lehmann explained in terms of the way that these amendments were constructed, all are based
largely on national best practices. They looked at organizations that have a really broad scope in
the way that they look at housing affordability and equity, one of them being the American
Planning Association, they also looked at information by the National Association of Counties
and then also AARP, the Association for Retired Persons. They looked at what's working
throughout the nation and what's not working in terms of enhancing equity and enhancing
affordability. In terms of equity, and in terms of the American Planning Association, they really
focus on the equity and zoning policy guide which has a number of different recommendations
with regards to zoning codes, things like allowing a broad range of housing types, reducing
minimum lot sizes, allowing ADUs, treating assisted group living and housing for persons with
disabilities as residential uses, allowing administrative approval of reasonable accommodations,
all things to further equity within the community. The National Association of Counties provides
specific recommendations for individual counties based on their characteristics. They classify
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 10 of 27
Johnson County as a high growth — high cost community so a lot of their housing policies are
focused on making it easier to build small, moderately priced homes, making the development
process simpler and shorter by streamlining approval processes and also expanding vouchers or
income supports for low income renters, which ties into things like incentives for affordable
housing. Finally, AARP is also very interested in affordable housing. A lot of the ADU standards
are tied to those AARP findings and recommended policies by the Johnson County Livable
Communities group. They did identify things like owner occupancy requirements, parking
requirements, conditional use permits, and discretionary standards related to design or
neighborhood character can really limit the use of ADUs. AARP pointed to recent changes seen
especially in California and Oregon's legislation and also in Seattle's 2019 Local Code revisions,
where a lot of them have moved away from rental restrictions. They have also seen this in other
communities such as Ann Arbor recently.
Staff is also recommending these proposed amendments because they do believe that they are
currently consistent with the current Comprehensive Plan. The vision statement for the
Comprehensive Plan is creating attractive and affordable housing for all people that is the
foundation of a healthy, safe and diverse neighborhoods throughout the City. The Plan lists
strategies and goals such as ensuring a mix of housing types, encouraging development of
smaller lots, ensuring a balance of housing types, and supporting infill development in areas
where infrastructure is already in place. The Comprehensive Plan also has a Future Land Use
Map that shows where different uses might be allowed. Within most of the community it notes
that it's appropriate for two to eight dwelling units per acre and that is the lowest density future
land use designation. Staff did take that into effect when looking at the proposed amendments as
well. Within the Comprehensive Plan it really does stress that even with these density limits that
a variety of housing types should be encouraged throughout all areas of the community.
Lehmann did note staff did receive seven pieces of correspondence, three were included in the
agenda packet, and four were submitted late, so those were handed out tonight and have also
been emailed to the Commissioners separately.
Staff recommends that Title 14 Zoning be amended as illustrated in Attachment 2 to enhance
land use regulations related to improve housing choice, increase housing supply, and encourage
affordability.
In terms of next steps, upon a recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, a
public hearing would be scheduled for consideration by City Council. The earliest possible time
that could occur is September 5, and then they would have a third consideration and possible
adoption by October 3 at the earliest.
Hensch asked what the date on the Comprehensive Plan was. Lehmann noted it was adopted in
2013 and the City is currently in the process of developing an RFP for a comprehensive plan
update since it's been about 10 years, which is pretty standard.
Hensch asked under amendment number one to increase flexibility for range of housing types,
why not just think about expanding the use of RS -12 since that allows all the multiple types.
Lehmann acknowledged that is a possible amendment that could happen however, the problem
is that would not comply with the current Comprehensive Plan since the current Comprehensive
Plan specifies that two to eight dwelling units per acre would be allowed. Staff focused on
amendments that comply with the current Plan.
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 11 of 27
Hensch asked regarding the amendment to the modified design standards and having to put
masonry or brick or requirement to the ground, that's essentially the same as what it is for single
family residences, meaning there's no requirement for a single family to have that. Lehmann
confirmed that is correct and there is no requirement and this is just making it the same standard.
Hensch noted amendment number three provides additional flexibility to enhance the supply of
housing. Why increase the number of bedrooms when demographics show family sizes are
significantly shrinking, it seems contrary to the reality and these additional rooms are just going
to be filled up with a bunch of people who are renting rooms essentially. Lehmann stated it's
really tied to the fact that there's an unnecessary restriction for different housing types seen
especially outside of the core. The just renting out rooms is a very real concern, especially in that
University Impact Area, so that's why that area is excluded from the proposed amendment.
Lehmann shared the example of Habitat for Humanity had proposed attached single family uses
with five bedrooms in the South District and currently that's not allowed under the code.
Lehmann noted a lot of the times it's tied to intergenerational households and also larger families
that just can't find housing in Iowa City and so a lot of those people have to either find a
detached single-family home or move to a different community where that might be allowed.
Hensch noted if they are increasing the number of bedrooms and decreasing the lot sizes, so
where do kids play. Lehmann stated the City does have open space requirements and rear
setback requirements that would continue to be in effect and those standards are intended to
create room for children to play.
Hensch asked regarding the University Impact Area, when was that determined, looking at the
map it just looks too small and doesn't reflect the reality of where students live. Lehmann stated
he believes that was adopted in 2012 and was specifically tied to parking standards, it was tied
to the zoning districts at the time, specifically limited to areas that aren't lower density single
family zones.
Hensch asked about the accessory dwelling unit issue and isn't a real barrier to the creation of
accessory dwelling units the cost of construction, particularly detached ADUs because if it is
something that people had a need for constructing only 52 ADUs in 30 years is like one and a
half year, so the demand clearly isn't there. His first thought is affordability because
intergenerational households would jump all over this because it seems to be the answer to
things. Lehmann agreed that the cost of construction and obtaining financing are barriers to
ADUs but staff really has made its recommendations based on the fact that they don't want the
zoning code to be that barrier to the construction of ADUs. Some of the barrier could be tied to
the fact that current zoning standards are unnecessarily limiting construction.
Hensch noted wouldn't it just be an expansion of houses that are used as rentals because
investors who have the deep pockets are going to be the only ones that can afford to build these
and then rent them out to students. His concern is about neighborhood integrity, he has been in
Iowa City since 1985 and it's pretty obvious where rentals are where they're not and
neighborhoods start declining where there are lots of rental houses because they are just not
maintained with the standards that people maintain their personal dwelling. He thinks it's very
important to be respectful of people who want to maintain the integrity of the neighborhood. If
someone spends everything to buy their house and now the houses on both sides are rentals
that changes the integrity of the neighborhood. He feels organizations are going to purchase
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 12 of 27
these properties and it's just another way to get another rental in there. Lehmann acknowledged
that's a possibility but what staff was focused on is making sure that the zoning code is not a
barrier. Hensch stated he loves the concept because he a big fan of generational housing.
Padron doesn't understand how increasing the number of bedrooms will create more affordable
housing. Additionally, if they have more houses with more bedrooms is there a way to ensure
that those are going to be owned by families and not just rented to multiple people. Lehmann
replied it really is a matter of specifically accommodating different household arrangements
within different household types. Currently, single family homes don't have a cap on the number
of bedrooms that they can have but everything else that has a cap on the number of bedrooms
so single-family homes are currently the only dwelling types that can accommodate larger
families. However, those are also more expensive than other housing types such as multifamily
and attached single family or duplex uses. The City has gotten requests for some of those larger
uses in more affordable housing types but it is not allowed under the current code. Regarding
restricting owner occupancy or renter occupancy, Lehmann stated the zoning code doesn't really
consider owner or renter occupancy, except in the case of accessory dwelling units, the rental
code tries to address those situations.
Craig noted these proposed changes seem to be doing some things that provide more flexibility,
similar to the form -based code. The neighborhood she thinks of is the Peninsula that was
deliberately designed to include multiple living arrangements in one building. There are a lot of
apartments and ADUs, that's a neighborhood that was designed specifically to have denser
housing, it that the same as form -based code. Lehmann confirmed that is correct, approximately
a third of the 52 ADUs are in the Peninsula neighborhood. In terms of the form -based code these
standards are significantly closer to what's allowed in them. For example, the proposed minimum
lot sizes for RS -5 and RS -8 are similar to what's allowed in the T3 (suburban transect,
neighborhood edge and neighborhood general zones) in the form -based code. Duplexes are
also allowed in all the T3 zones. both side by side and stacked. There is no corner requirement
for duplexes in the form -based zones. In terms of other changes, the duplex use are still
significantly larger in an RS -5 zone than is allowed in the neighborhood edge zone but uses that
are allowed are similar and single-family lot sizes would be similar.
Elliott noted at the July 5 meeting she had asked a question about somebody coming in and
tearing down an affordable single-family house and making it higher cost and having more
people living on the land. The response was something about covenants controlling that, what
does that mean. Lehmann stated private covenants are another barrier to different housing
types in communities. Covenants are legal restrictions that run with the land, often homeowner
associations, and they often restrict what type of housing can be built, such as only single-family
detached housing. That's a barrier to housing but that's something that's not considered here
because they do expire after 21 years unless they're renewed, so they can change over time.
Quite a few areas have private covenants that restrict to single-family detached only, mostly in
outlying areas. They became common in the 60s, when there were still racial covenants that
restrict where persons of color can live. Nowadays it can only restrict to type of building such as
single-family detached only.
Elliott asked about the neighborhoods close to downtown that have historic and conservation
districts and explain more about why their lots sizes are not an issue. Russett stated in the local
historic districts and local conservation districts the only place the demolition of an existing
structure would be allowed if it's deteriorated beyond repair so a demolition in a historic
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 13 of 27
conservation district and a new structure being built is unlikely. Elliott clarified that there are
some historic and conservation districts that are outside University Impact Area. Lehmann
confirmed that is correct for Longfellow, but there are none on the west side.
Elliott noted by looking at the numbers in the northside, there could possibly be over 2000
accessory units and including the University Impact Area it would be 3100. So if 75% of those
units that are allowed by removing the owner occupancy requirement would be in the University
Impact Area. Lehmann confirmed that is correct but they still have to meet all other regulations.
noted part of what comes from the previous question about private covenants and then also
about smaller lot sizes, lots do have to be conforming lots to have an ADU, they do have to meet
the open space standards, setbacks, and coverage standards. There are a number of standards
that are in place to ensure high quality places, and that rear yards still exists. Staff's analysis did
not look at that detail of each lot because to do so they'd have to look individual lot by individual
lot basis, calculate the amount that's covered by a building, etc.
Elliott asked about the percent of single-family duplex uses in areas close to the University that
are rental based but not exactly in the University Impact Area. Lehmann noted it's hard to come
up with those numbers because rental units change all the time.
Hektoen stated initial development of covenants usually are not put in place until after a
development has been started so wouldn't it apply to the initial development of a greenfield site
within a subdivision, they could potentially be implicated if someone wanted to redevelop an
existing lot. Elliott stated there could be developments out there that can exist now with all the
houses in the subdivision as single-family houses. Hekteon stated that is more of a historic relic
and she hasn't seen them very recently but again, the City's not involved in approving those or
enforcing them, they're imposed by the developer after the developments been built, so if a
developer wants to put duplexes in the middle of a block under the proposed amendments
private covenants wouldn't restrict that necessarily.
Wade asked about the rear access requirements, and if there's an alleyway on a duplex, does
that require that the garage access is off alleyway. Lehmann confirmed that is correct.
Hensch opened the public hearing.
Jim Throgmorton (814 Ronalds Street) stated he is co-chairing the Northside Neighborhood
Association steering committee and began by distributing a written statement. City staff proposed
a series of major amendments designed to improve housing choice, increase housing supply and
encourage affordability. Just on Friday staff issued the long complicated supplement to the initial
report and he has spent much of the last couple of days reading it and trying to digest it. On
Sunday his co-chair Sherry McGraw and he guided a zoning matters community forum about
staffs proposed changes, roughly 50 Iowa Citians, some of whom are here right now, attended
the event at the library. Attendees asked many questions and offered many comments about the
proposed amendments. The questions and comments ranged from purely technical ones like
what is an ADU to the expressly political ones. The technical comments revealed that most
residents do not understand the zoning processes and political comments revealed a very broad
range of political views. Throgmorton commends City staff for carefully considering how to
promote the development of more affordable housing through the use of zoning tools. He finds
himself agreeing with and supporting most of the proposed changes. Many of them seem to
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 14 of 27
open up existing future conventional residential zoning districts, especially RS -5, to a more
diverse range of housing types. Doing so is a progressive response to historical evidence that in
cities all over the country conventional residential zoning has been exclusionary by design.
However, the proposed amendments are the most significant alterations to the zoning code in
nearly 20 years and changes of this magnitude and complexity deserve to be carefully studied
and discussed by all affected stakeholders. To the best of his knowledge, there were no
consultations with the general public or neighborhood associations prior to the issuance of the
proposed amendments. Additionally, to the best of his knowledge there have been no reports to
the local news media. The steering committee thinks it is extremely important for the
Commission to defer voting on proposed amendments tonight and to think of ways to in which a
broader community discussion about the proposed changes can be conducted. They strongly
believe that neighborhood association meetings must be recognized as key stakeholders in this
process. The Northside Association finds it difficult to fully assess how the amendments would
affect the Northside and other neighborhoods in the UTA. However, they think some of the effects
might be harmful. This concern largely stems from the fact that the housing market in these
neighborhoods is profoundly affected by the intense demand for off -campus student housing.
Although all of the UTA neighborhoods are affected by this demand, the particular effects vary
from neighborhood to neighborhood. In each case, it is important to account for the social and
material realities. They have recently completed an inventory of property of the Northside
Neighborhood. This inventory of 994 properties reveals that the Northside is already quite
diverse in housing types, ages, ownership and assessed values. The written statement provides
more details. The most important the 2023 assessed values of the 467 single family homes. The
single-family owner -occupied properties range from $76,000 to $1.1 million. Almost 14% of the
single-family properties are assessed in the $100,000 range or below, 46 are assessed in
$200,000 range. Moreover, the inventory reveals that 175 Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
and other incorporated entities own property in the Northside. These private enterprises own and
presumably rents 27% of the properties classified as being single-family owner. One individual's
various LLC owns at least 56 properties in the neighborhood. Again, the details are available on
the written statement. As he read the staffs August 2 supplementary memo, the possibility of
perverse effects applies primarily to the proposals concerning accessory dwelling units,
especially items 3C, 4A and 4B in combination. With this mix of amendments and incentives,
especially the removal of the requirement that one unit be owner occupied, private investors are
likely to sweep up properties in the RNS-12 parts of the Northside and Goosetown, they are
likely to demolish older, lower cost, owner -occupied structures and replace them with larger
rental structures coupled with rentable ADUs. The overall supply of housing increases the
supply of affordable owner -occupied housing would shrink. Throgmorton strongly opposes
applying the staffs proposed ADU changes to the RS -8 and RNS-12 parts of the Northside for
the unique reasons associated with neighborhoods in the UTA. He noted what he has said is very
consistent with the conversations he's had with other members of the steering committee and
with neighbors who attended that forum on Sunday.
Lorraine Bowans (925 Barrington Drive) currently lives in Windsor Ridge but spent 30 years in
the Longfellow area, along South Governor Street between Burlington and Bowery. She has
served in a lot of capacities in different things. She is a member of the Johnson County Livable
Communities, but is not here tonight representing them, these are her personal views. She is
100% behind the ADUs but has also lived in a historic house. Their house on South Governor
was built in 1864 and there used to be a lot of duplexes and rooming houses on that section of
street when they moved in there in 1985. It was 80% rental at one time then around 2000 many
of those have been converted from duplexes and rooming houses back to single family homes.
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 15 of 27
Their house was a duplex when they bought it, the house next door was a triplex with a unit in
the garage and it was a duplex house. Bowans noted they can be made beautiful but she wants
to preserve the historic buildings they left. She worked for the City engineering department in
1978 and it broke her heart to see all the historic houses on Johnson and Van Buren and all
those places just demolished for housing for students. She also worked with Ann Freerks to
make Longfellow, the South Governor and Lucas Street areas into the second conservation
district. They put a lot of time and effort in keeping neighborhoods historic. She noted they can
have ADUS and can be converted back to duplexes and things and not ruin the integrity, they
have to be very careful. Bowans noted the conservation districts and the historic districts all have
very strict guidelines, just to change a front porch they had to go in front of the Historic
Commission to make sure they were doing the right thing. She would like to see the conservation
and historic areas owner -occupied to help preserve that, because Governor Street, when they
moved in, was a distressed neighborhood, their property taxes were basically nothing, and when
they left they had gone up from around $700 a year in 1985 to over $6000. When the
neighborhood was owner occupied, and even when they were rentals, looked nice and was
taken care of. She would like to suggest part of the reason there are not more ADUs is they only
had a one story -one stall garage. Their lot was a third of an acre and they wanted to build a
carriage house because everybody along their alley had carriage house because they backed up
to Summit Street. They couldn't build carriage house because it was non -conforming by City
code so when they did build their large garage, which was 26 by 40, they thought about putting in
something and were going to go in and argue about it to be the place where her parents would
move into when they retire. Unfortunately, things got too pricey and they couldn't afford to build.
But on larger lots one can make the carriage house and make it look beautiful for an ADU. She
encourages some outside the box ideas. Bowans noted the other thing are covenants, when a
subdivision is developed, they develop lots, where the roads are going to go and things like that.
When a developer gets a plot of land, they subdivide it, they put in their streets and everything,
and then they decide what buildings to build. Covenants usually last 20 or 22 years, and then
they are renewable twice for 11 years, and then they're gone. She lives in Windsor Ridge and
they no longer have covenants. Their house was built in 1996, but it's for the neighborhood to
have kind of a uniform design. Additionally, she is a member of that AARP advocacy team and
there are some changes to Medicaid coming and in Iowa they lost 23 nursing homes last year
and six this year so far. The one in Iowa City is almost being shut down.
Donald MacFarlane (620 Summit Street) was the founder of the Summit Street Historic
Neighborhood Association, which is a carve out from Longfellow. He strongly endorses the
thought that the Commission should not vote on this tonight until they've had a chance to talk to
the neighborhoods. They should talk to the neighborhoods because the motivation for this
change does not come from reality, it comes from theory. It comes from theories set 50-70 years
ago, and by and large have never been proved to be either right or not right. He likes to live in
this town because of its vibrancy and its vibrancy comes from young people who come to this
town. They come as students and they need student housing, and how much student housing,
they need enough for 26,000 students. There is also a need for married student housing, and
after that young faculty housing, and after that senior faculty housing, plus all the other people in
town. These constituency groups were never mentioned, students were never mentioned,
neighborhoods were never mentioned, historic and conservation districts were almost never
mentioned. They haven't done a survey of X number of college towns, because college towns
are very, very different than other towns. Have a look at them and see if there's something that
was better than what they've done. Don't go to some theory, from an organization somewhere,
there's never actually done this. He is not sure if there is a constituency for affordable housing.
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 16 of 27
When he was young, he bought a house, it wasn't affordable, it was terrifying. It was way beyond
his imagination. He couldn't think he could possibly own that house but did it because they
wanted to live in a beautiful house. They did it because it was going to be a beautiful
neighborhood and they thought they would invest in that and eventually it will become a family
asset. And all of those things have become true, the house is in RS -5, the map shown was hard
to see but this amendment is staying his street is going to be rezoned for duplexes, why convert
those beautiful houses to duplexes. The answer is that young people who want to buy the best
possible house that they can even though unaffordable, will not come to Iowa City, they go to
Coralville, North Liberty, Solon, or wherever. They won't want to buy a house on Summit Street,
which is moderately expensive, because of the probability that house prices will decline and not
rise, they will not have a family asset if they buy a house on Summit Street, because some
theory tells us that our big beautiful houses should actually be duplexes.
Wally Plahutnik (430 North Gilbert St) stated he is not part of any organized group, he is a
Democrats and no one ever went broke overestimating the averse corporate landlords in Iowa
City. He asks the Commission to keep that in mind when they're offering the possibility for them
to double their money on a lot. He'd also like them to consider postponing this vote to get in
touch with neighborhoods. He served on planning and zoning during the last writing of this code
and during the previous development of all the district plans. What some regard as poison pills
in that code was really carefully thought out and they regarded them as features rather than
bugs, AARP disagrees with that, but they had a consensus of folks who did agree that they were
features and not bugs. The first question is if this is indeed about affordable housing. He failed
somewhere to find the numbers of results that are they're going to get from this. When they have
a plan like that, that's great, he wants to see what the plans goals are to increase some
affordable housing. At some point from staff it'd be great to hear if they proceed with this plan
what X percent increase in affordable housing will be achieved. Like mentioned, the UI impacts
zone, which he lives in, seems like it's going to be immune from quite a few of these things, but
that's not the issue. By expanding bedrooms what they're doing is expanding the UI impacts
zone and not shielding the impact zone. The duplexes on the corners were really carefully
worked on, thought out, talked about, discussed and again, they saw that it's a feature not a bug.
He asked a theoretical question of how many duplexes on a block is okay, if they are on the
corners and now in the middle, and more between the middle and the corners, well that's a
whole different block, and with accessory houses in the back, it's going to make a serious impact
on any neighborhood. Please consider postponing this and going through some of the processes
of community engagement before a final proposal, because there's a lot of good ideas in there
but there are some unintended consequences.
Gregg Geerdes (890 Park Place) lives in mosquito flats but has a rental property in Goosetown
and a rental property on Summit Street. He noted one of the things that apparently happened
over the last 10 years been a trend away from this idea to preserve neighborhoods. He
remembers when this whole controversy about conservation districts, historic districts and all
those things came into play, and the idea was that they wanted to preserve the neighborhood
because they were attractive to people and places for people wanting to live. Now it seems like
they're getting away from that. The accessory dwelling units apparently can be built in most
zones including conservation zones and historic preservation. Does Historic Preservation require
construction requirements, or any other design standards, these things which are built in historic
or conservation zones and the answer appears to be no because that would be an impediment
or an obstruction to expanding housing. Now the overall principle here seems to be one of
density. Densities now becomes good but that's a big leap for a lot of people have chosen to
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 17 of 27
leave Iowa City to build in North Liberty or Tiffin or Solon or variety of other places because they
have been able to find desirable places to live and raise their family due to denisity. These
owner occupiers are building in RS -5 but he asks them to keep in mind that there is competition
out there. If they make this less desirable for families, they've got other places to go and that's
what they will do, they're already doing that. The objective could be to bring them back not drive
more out. Geerdes noted regarding group homes, two weeks or maybe months now, there were
several articles in the paper about halfway houses, so what is a group home, is a halfway house
or people getting out of prison home a group home. Perhaps that is something that they want to
address again, they're seeking to extend a desirable community. He encourages them to note
the examples in Portland and San Francisco mentioned, obviously if they read The New York
Times, Washington Post, there's a great deal of coverage about how those zoning and
accessible housing ordinances in those areas have failed and have given the exact opposite
result. There is a bill this week where Minneapolis which famously outlawed single-family zoning
in the last few years, is now rethinking its position because developers have abandoned and are
going to St. Paul and adjacent suburbs that don't have those restrictions. Tread lightly, Iowa City
is a good community, it's attractive to people, that's why they come here. Don't put anything in
front of them that deters that or detracts from the desirability that they all enjoy.
Ellen McCabe (Housing Trust Fund in Johnson County) stated diversity in housing options can
help make more housing more affordable. In addition to further incentives to add housing that is
affordable need to be put in place. She works with developers everyday who want to create
housing that is affordable, and they can work to lower the barriers that they face, including the
design standards, it may not sound like brick on the facade is an issue but the developers
expressed that every single aspect of the process adds cost. The Housing Trust Fund supports
changes that will help the estimated 13,450 households with low incomes in Iowa City who are
spending more than 30% of their income on their housing. That is the same cost burden by their
housing.
Tim Flea_qle is a student at the University of Iowa and is a homeowner on the Northside, he
wanted to say he believes that the proposed changes to the zoning code will benefit not just him
as a homeowner and in certain neighborhoods, but him as a student. He has a young family,
they're trying to grow that young family, and they may be priced out of their neighborhood
because of the lack of affordable housing in that neighborhood. The zoning changes put forth
today would allow for an increase in diversity of housing, whether that's renting or owning, and
allow them to stay in the neighborhoods they want to be in. These are evidence -based policies
that have shown through rigorous peer reviewed articles to improve outcomes in certain
neighborhoods. A lot of opposition he's heard today are people who are speaking out to
continue to have exclusionary zoning for the purpose of excluding other people, mostly students,
of which the City is made off of students. A lot of the comments are they don't want students in
their neighborhoods.
Bob Burchfield (1107 Muscatine Avenue) has owned a home on Muscatine Avenue for over 49
years, his neighbors always got a mix of students, houses that are rented as homes, and
longtime homeowners. He was a student here, he loves students, they're not anti -students. He
just objects to the process being used to rush these amendments through. October is just a few
months away, and this is such a massive change. He objects to most of the proposals, but what
he finds most objectionable is they are writing language that is being used to deceive and
distract from what's really being done here. Everyone is for affordable housing but they know that
in truth what this really does is allow developers to continue to make more money. He generally
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 18 of 27
doesn't see developers living in these neighborhoods, students are living in these
neighborhoods, the developers aren't living in these neighborhoods. He doesn't think he heard
anything tonight that wasn't directed towards developers can't do. He didn't hear anything about
what those of them in their neighborhoods can do to maintain viable and stable neighborhoods.
He doesn't generally attend these meetings or speak because he doesn't expect this City staff or
Commission or City Council to be any different than the ones that throughout the years have
allowed developers to profit by attacking the downtown, and their neighborhoods, he just wishes
for once that they'd be honest about what they're really doing.
Sharon DeGraw lives in the Northside and after the July 5 Planning and Zoning meeting took
place, a few of them started to actually read what was in the code, the code changes and
realized the different variables and the way that they would interact to cause so many different
things that they weren't sure they could predict everything. They wondered if the people on the
Planning Commission also felt the same way and if they could predict all the outcomes and staff
could and if City Council will. So they put together this little meeting and called it a neighborhood
forum. There was one week between announcing it and actually having it so they felt scrambled
and they didn't know who would show up. But 50 people from different neighborhoods, mostly in
the University Impact Areas did show up and they were responding to many of the things that
people were talking about at this point. She asks that the Commission defer voting on this
because there are many that would wish to meet and talk about variables.
Paula Swygard (426 Douglass Street) noted they've heard a lot of general comments, she
comes with some specific comments about how this might impact particularly her. Maybe the
answers are somewhere in all that documentation, but she couldn't find them. At the end, they
have an appendix with lots of red strikeouts and little bit of black with all the amendments in
there. Her questions pertain specifically to stand-alone accessory apartments and is there
specific approval criteria for a standalone accessory apartments, do the setback requirements for
those conform to the underlying zone, what is the setback between the principal dwelling and the
stand-alone, what is the height limit for the stand-alone. Swygard gave the example of her little
single family three-bedroom house, in an RS -8 zone, it is only 832 square feet and her
neighbor's home, in the same zone right next door, is 672 square feet. Many apartments are
larger than her house, but there are also many small homes like hers in older parts of Iowa City.
So calculating the dimensions of the house behind her, at the current 30%, a detached unit of
368 or 468 could be built, depending how the square footage of the four seasons porch is
considered. At 50%,under a new proposal, either a 613 square foot or a nice 781 square foot
home could be built on her lot, both of those are comparable to her house and her neighbor's
house that are considered single family homes. So given the size of her house, she has a hard
time thinking of a detached apartment of nearly 800 square feet as a separate apartment and not
two single family homes on the same lot. Investors alike find this to be a way to increasing
housing on their properties. However, the cost of building a detached unit, the size of a small
house, and therefore the rent to make it a good investment, won't make it affordable. One other
comment on page 21 of the staff memo sites the APA equity and zoning policy guide regarding
ADUs it states quote "but it may be necessary to limit them to properties where the primary
dwelling unit is the owners primary residence to avoid speculative investment, particularly when
used as short term rentals" and that is Iowa City in a nutshell. The best practice of requiring that
one unit be owner occupied should remain especially when it comes to detached accessory
homes.
Martha Norbek (906 S. 7th Avenue) is a local architect who specializes in the green building. She
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 19 of 27
first wanted to say the staff did a great job putting this together, there's so much research, the
maps, the data, she's very impressed. One of the things she noticed was they said up front that
affordable housing is complicated, so is climate action and those two go together very nicely.
When they're increasing density of units, they're reducing transportation and carbon from
transportation. When they can do a duplex reducing the amount of carbon that is required to
build that building, they're creating a common wall so the total amount of heat that's required to
heat those two dwellings is less than if it were two separate dwellings. It's a win for climate. One
of the things about climate action and affordable housing is there's no one solution. There's no
big idea that's going to solve the problems. This is going to be thousands of ideas cumulatively
put together addressing the issue. She is very excited about many of these proposals, they have
imperative to act on both housing and climate and if they're sitting here like, oh this possible bad
outcome for me personally might affect me negatively, then they're never going to create
change. She hears people say they are scared of density, that as a proxy for classism and she
thinks they just need to call it out for what it is. The existing neighborhoods are not going to be
just ransacked and she knows this because she designed her mother's house at 1618
Muscatine, after a house that had been horribly neglected was demolished, which is one of the
52 ADUs. They had to work really hard to come up with a solution to provide an apartment to a
young man who's economically stressed for $500, utilities included, and her mom is still going to
be able to pay for the entire construction costs of that unit in 15 years, and when she's less able,
they can have someone living upstairs who can take care of her and check in on her every day.
This is the reality of an aging population. Her mom's needs are what ADUs are all about, it's
been a huge success for her. Norbek is also working on a project at 724 Ronalds where a house
was demolished after being neglected for many years, they are working with the Historic
Preservation Commission and it has not been easy. It is $300 to $350 a square foot to build on
that property so it's not like people will just waltz in, tear things down and build new, it's just not
going to work. If someone pays $150,000 to $200,000 for a property that has an existing house
just to tear it down and build new at $300 to $350 a square foot, no one's going to buy that
house. They're $150,000 out before they even buy one wood stud, it just doesn't make sense.
Therefore, the concept that people will come in and demolish neighborhoods isn't rational, she
has studied it, she has considered buying properties in those neighborhoods, she's looked at
adding ADUs, it's very difficult and it's very expensive, epecially in historic preservation areas.
Also, when they're talking about theory, let's look at ourselves and our hearts and what we're
thinking and question how to they want to support those less than us, this guy who's renting from
her mother for $500 a month, that's the story that they want. They have created affordable
housing with that ADU. Norbek gave an example of a new house on Bloomington Street where
they tore down a house on a corner lot and now they're trying to sell that house for $500,000 and
guess what, no one's buying, it's been on the market for months so good luck to them to actually
make their investment back. These fears about the existing neighborhoods are not based in
reality, they're based in fear. Norbek is desperate to see climate action accelerate and these
proposals will help make that happen.
Nancy Carlson (1002 E. Jefferson Street) stated all of them want affordable housing, they want
everybody to be able to afford to live and to have a living space, that isn't the question. If they
were I Dream of Jeanie or whatever TV program from back in the 50s where the genie or the
whatever could wiggle her nose and everything would turn out perfectly. It's too bad they don't
live in a city like that, where they could wiggle their noses and go poof and it was all be solved, it
would be wonderful, unfortunately that was a TV program and this is reality and if they are going
to deal with living here they need to live in the situation that they are in. She has lived in her
house on Jefferson Street for 40 years. It was a working-class neighborhood and she has
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 20 of 27
watched structure after structure, whether is was house owned by a working class person, or if it
was rented out to a lower class person, she has watched over the years these houses either
being changed into rent -by bedrooms or torn down and turned into a rent -by bedroom situations.
It's it has been sad to watch her neighborhood disappear so that these people could do
structures with rent -by bedroom structures. Carlson has nothing against students, they need a
place to live affordable just like others do. The problem is that they acquired the neighborhood
and that doesn't allow anybody else to live in the neighborhood and have access to housing and
that's why she is very much afraid of these ADUs because she is afraid it's going to be another
rent -by bedroom thing developers will do. Regarding the expense, developers have other
developments and write those things off. The individual person who lives in their house and does
an ADU does not have that. A developer can depreciate it out over 20 years. So she is asking
them to please stop and think about not how wonderful the idea of having all these ADUs are
and what they could do for the community because while they could she thinks they need to stop
and think about what is the reality of the places where they live. They need to take into
consideration not only providing housing for people but to make sure that by these actions they
are not decreasing that.
Ross Nusser (202 N. Linn Street) is a local real estate agent and developer and also a resident
of the Northside. He commends the City's attempt to try and help assuage the problem of
affordable housing and trying to do something. He thinks the density is what happens when
density can come affordable housing. He also respects the right to comment and to engage the
public and is in total support of his fellow neighborhoods wanting to have more of an input on
this. But by and large, he thinks that if they want to address a problem, they have to do
something. Nusser thinks that this code amendment shows that they can do something, this is
substantive change that can entice affordable housing and can entice different types of
developers. He doesn't buy into the slippery slope fallacy as allowing ADUs will create a boon
for developers investing in. Construction prices are too high, it's too expensive and cost
prohibitive to remodel some of these older structures and then to build in the rear of the lot,
assuming that they have the appropriate setbacks, it doesn't seem like it would likely work out
financially.
Scott Hawes (Executive Director, Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity) stated Habitat for Humanity
focuses on home ownership, specially affordable homeownership. He thinks this is an idea that
everybody understands but wanted to bring it to the forefront of how impactful homeownership
can be specifically for children and for families. In addition to being an asset, actually owning a
home allows children to stay in the same school district, allows them to get to know their
teachers, allows them to get to go to school with their peers for as long as they live there. There
are other benefits in addition to actually the financial ones that come with owning a home. The
way he looks at these amendments is that it improves the opportunity for people who are of low
income to purchase a home, specifically, the amendments to the zero lots or attached single-
family amendments. It is cheaper, especially at Habitat, if they can build a zero -lot line, it is much
cheaper than a detached single-family house. Because those costs are lower it makes it more
affordable for folks to purchase and provides more opportunities. Hawes supports especially the
provisions that would allow more diverse housing. In response to a question that Mr. Hensch
said, specifically about increasing the size of bedrooms in a home, it might be true that families
are starting to decrease in size, but there's still going to be larger families and they're going to
need housing and all that's available is smaller homes, then they're not going to have a house.
Hawes asks that they just consider that. Yes, there might be some demographic changes or
trends going one direction, but it won't be the end of larger families with multi generations. The
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 21 of 27
last thing that he has to say is that great neighborhoods come in a lot of different shapes and
different sizes, and they look very different. You can have a great neighborhood with a duplex or
a zero -lot on the corner and mid -block. You can have a great neighborhood with an ADU, you
can have a great neighborhood with a smaller lot where the children play in a common space or
at the park. He likes that the City is making an effort to recognize that neighborhoods look
different and they can be great no matter what they look like and that zoning won't be a barrier to
having a great neighborhood.
Rabbi Rebecca Kushner (325 Ferson Avenue) stated she fails to be convinced that density
bonus benefits a neighborhood necessarily, especially with traffic concerns, she lives in Manville
Heights and they've had an extreme increase in traffic density since the building the construction
in North Liberty. Some streets are almost impassable, she doesn't even walk them anymore.
Also, Manville Heights has no grocery stores, no convenience stores, why are they packing so
many people in position whether it's no bus route, no way to walk downtown, it's pretty far. She
is also not understanding why diversity and divisive come in balance and it's balancing one
against the other. Of course everybody wants housing for everybody. Everybody wants the world
to be Kumbaya and function and yet she would have really welcomed if the decision had been
transparent for the neighborhood associations. She learned of this just by chance and that
seems like something is being kind of bowled over against or despite the neighborhood's
development.
Karyl Bohnsack (Executive Officer, Greater Iowa City Area of Homebuilders Association) is also
on the Johnson County Livable Community Coalition, the Johnson County Affordable
Homeownership Coalition, and she has been a past board member of Iowa Valley Habitat for
Humanity. She wants to thank the staff for taking the time to meet with and answer questions
with the ABA, the Affordable Homeownership Coalition, the Affordable Livable Coalition, this is a
good start but as the memo says it's not going to resolve all the issues related to housing
affordability. There have been a lot of compromises that have been made about design
standards, the way ADUs look, the way the duplexes look, there's been multiple moving parts to
this in the eight and a half years that she's been the executive officer and meeting with City of
Iowa City staff. Bohnsack wanted to say that they support these changes and proposals that are
being made to zoning code, it's the things that zoning can do to help with affordability. The
Livable Community Coalition supports the accessory dwelling units, not to make neighborhoods
a plethora of rental opportunities, but so people can continue living in place in their homes, so
that someone can either look in on an elderly person or if you're living at home you can live in the
ADU in the backyard, or someone else can take care of your family and understand the use of
that whether it's aging and its abilities, so it's a good thing. As far as the group homes, three of
the student build houses that were done in Iowa City were for Reach For Your Potential and
there were areas that they could not build those homes and the students couldn't get that
education. The zoning changes will help to be able to build those home and treat them like every
other multifamily house, rather than an institution so they support that as well.
Kelcev Patrick -Ferree (652 Sandusky Drive) a member of the South District Neighborhood
Association but is here in her personal capacity to say she supports these changes. She also
wants to specifically thank City staff for answering questions and for mentioning that they have
looked at other college towns and seen what they've done with their zoning. She wants to
remind everyone here that the old regulations in place have caused problems. In 2015 it was
found that Iowa City was the 14th most economically segregated city in the country and they've
been working on fixing that ever since. This change will finally start to make some of the bigger
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 22 of 27
changes needed in housing types in order to address these issues. The fact that Iowa City is that
economically segregated areas has caused problems for the schools over and over and over.
Her kids go to Alexandria Elementary in the southeast part of Iowa City but they have been
assigned to go to middle school at Northwest Junior High in Coralville because of how
economically segregated Iowa City is. So she appreciates that they're finally doing something
about this. She has been participating in all of these meetings for almost a decade at this point,
and the reports that the staff presented are not new, this is not surprising. It's not being put on
people at the last minute, staff have come and talked to the South District Neighborhood
Association regularly, they come and talk about zoning issues, they've talked about form -based
code a lot when that was affecting their area. This is not something that is being dumped on
people at the last minute. These are people who have not participated in this process because
they didn't think that affordable housing was going to affect them until they found out that it was.
The City is moving in the right direction. There's free bus service, they are reducing parking that
is true, but they're adding a lot of incentives. This is going to help avoid sprawl, this is going to
help be more environmentally friendly. She loves this inclusive zoning, she enjoys that this is
going to make things more walkable and more bikeable, which is what a lot of young people
want. It is unlike North Liberty, Tiffin and other cities in the area. She just wants to really
emphasize this has been a decade long process, City staff is always accessible, they will talk to
you about anything you have questions about.
Mary Bennett (1107 Muscatine Avenue) She has watched Planning and Zoning as well as the
Historic Preservation Commission and City Council. She's heard arguments for 45 years on what
some of these plans are to be, she's been on a planning committee for some of these things as
well. Yet she did not know about this until Sunday and she is plugged into what's going on. She
knows it's not deliberate for the City to hide this information but if it's going to impact her, she
wants to have input. Therefore, she encourages the Commission to defer any vote or decision on
this until they do gather input. She applauds all these progressive leaders that have come up to
the podium, whether they're from Habitat for Humanity, or whatever sector that helps the
disadvantaged of the community, but it sounds like the City has been in rather intimate
conversation with them for quite a long time, and not with other people. She doesn't want them to
be turning their backs on 50 years of successful historic preservation activity in this town, which
many dedicated people have spent an equal amount of time trying to educate and inform people
about the community's history and the ties that bind us and give us a level of stability that's often
lacking in other communities. Bennett acknowledged they live in stable neighborhoods but she is
not classist, she resents being accused of that, and she's not sexist, and she's not racist. They
all want affordable housing. She sat in these planning and zoning meetings and bought the bill of
goods that said they need density downtown to combat urban suburban sprawl and keep things
out by the Highlander as farm land but then at the same time, they're having developers come in
with plans for every single square inch of this county and surrounding area. On a personal level
she just had a friend who's been waiting for years to return to Iowa City, since 1985, but the
market was pricing her out. Unfortunately, she paid double the value of a house over on
Burlington Street. The classic example is of a former University of Iowa football player who's a
millionaire who came in and brought the property and is turning it off for twice that amount. He
didn't address the drainage and sewer pipe issues in the basement, he just had the windows
painted shut up and put carpeting over the hardwood floors. Now anyone coming back into that
neighborhood has even higher costs trying to rehabilitate that property because of the historic
building. So how does a single mom afford to rehab these houses that have been allowed by
landlords to turn into blight ridden places where they haven't kept up the moisture problems and
the drainage problems where they haven't addressed lead paint problems. If they want to talk
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 23 of 27
about climate change, well every time they tear down a house, where does that material end up,
it ends up in the landfill. People want yards where they can step out onto the porch, they want to
have gardens, they want walkability, these are all things the neighborhoods in this University
Impact Zone enjoy. Bennett stated they are not elitist, they're living in mixed neighborhoods,
there are students and she love students, she taught students for 45 years, students are the
future. But they also have to live with old people, middle aged people, young people and children
and she thinks some of this plan is very much a slap in the face to some of the older people in
this community who have dedicated their lives to making it a better place to live, and enjoy the
neighbors and the friends, and the things that this town has offered. She asks that they please
wait and listen to them, they do support what they're trying to do. There's a lot of wisdom in the
report which she appreciates and applauds, but it's also textbook oriented and it's not in
humanist values embedded in it other than to use the shield of diversity and disability to again
excuse what the developers are doing. They're lining their pockets at others expense and she
means those who've been below the highest income levels in this town. This has repeatedly
happened her entire life in Iowa City, she has been marching up to this podium trying to
encourage sensitivity among the leaders at whatever level they're at. They're investing an
enormous amount of time, but she asks that they give this some time and don't always look at
the bottom dollar.
Mary Beth Slonneper (937 E Davenport Street) lives in Goosetown and stated she has not in any
way absorbed everything in the 65 page report, but she just found out about this recently so she
is in the group that says please hold off a little bit longer to listen to the neighborhoods. She
thinks the value for Iowa City is that what they have that North Liberty and Tiffin and all the other
areas don't have is the historic neighborhoods and beautiful houses that reflect that. In
Goosetown, in the 1990s, her husband and her were given a grant by the City and so she is
trying to suggest possible other ways of looking at encouraging affordable housing. Goosetown
is probably at the bottom or near the bottom of the list of wealthy homes and they were given a
grant, a depreciating grant, that if they put money into restoration that loan would be taken away,
it was possibly 10 years, would there be a way of doing that, giving people grant money to
upgrade some of these very small homes instead of getting them out to the landfill and letting
developers come in. She encourages the Commission to think about creative ways of looking at
some of these properties rather than just alliterating them.
Martha Norbeck wanted to make clear that this is not changing historic or conservation district
requirements and that none of the historic preservation or conservation district rules are being
changed by any of these things. Hekteon confirmed that was correct.
Sharon DeGraw wanted to clarify about the one house that was referred to at the corner of
Bloomington and Union Street. What happened was the little cottage that was there was listed or
valued for around $160,000 and when the new house was constructed it has three bedrooms
upstairs and a bedroom in the basement, or studio or something in the basement and that house
was originally listed for $590,000 and it didn't sell. Subsequently bedrooms have been rented out
and they've seen them listed for about $900 - $1000 per bedroom, per month. If you multiply that
by four, that's getting close to $4,000 a month, those are pretty expensive prices. Some people
will priced out that. If one were to take the cottage in the Goosetown area cleared a lot, removed
the house, would it be possible to do a duplex, have four college students in each duplex and
charge again somewhere between $700 and $1,000 per person. And then do ADU in the back
with two bedrooms again, that seems like it's getting close to $7000 to $10,000 per month and
that's a game changer. That's more what they're worried about in terms of transforming the
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 24 of 27
neighborhoods in the Northside area.
Jim Throgmorton stated they have to ask if they really understand what staff has recommended.
Are they confident that they understand how these proposals will actually affect development in
this City. If the answer's no, then they should not vote tonight. Another thing he'd like to say is
they have a council election in November and there are four seats up for election. A large part of
this particular proposal, technically good though a key part of it is the politic aspect. He knows
this Commission is not making political decisions but are they confident of the political will in the
City to make the biggest change in the zoning code in 20 years and to make it before the council
elections.
Nancy Carlson stated at this point, their area, the impact area, has the highest land property
taxes per square foot of any area in the City. One of her fears is if they continue to allow more
and more development on each of these lots, does this make each of these lots more valuable
and does that mean that the people who are live in this area will see their property taxes go up.
If it does, and these changes are allowed, and there is more development they are going to price
out some of the people who don't have a lot of money who are trying to stay in the neighborhood
because of the rise of property taxes.
Ginnie Blair agrees with a lot of what has been said, she is all for affordable housing and is very
fond of the idea of ADUs, which originally she thought meant accessible dwelling units and they
were supposed to be the granny flat version of the back of a lot to help people age in place, and
it was important that was for owner occupied as an extra dwelling, that all makes perfect sense.
Affordable housing is important but she doesn't understand how extra housing is necessarily
going to make them affordable, because there's this voluntary part. Developers can build a
certain way and get a deal, but they don't have to. She is also wondering if all the townhouses
that are being built up around town, are those less expensive places to live because it doesn't
seem so. She loves Habitat, and The Housing Fellowship and is in favor of climate change but
doesn't see any regulations for any of that. She wishes the City would work with those people for
the greater good.
Hensch closed the public hearing.
Craig moved to recommend approval of Title 14 Zoning to be amended as illustrated in
Attachment 2 to enhance land use regulations related to improve housing choice,
increase housing supply, and encourage affordability.
Padron seconded the motion.
Craig noted as everyone has said tonight this is a very complicated issue but when they look at
what started all this five years ago, there was a charge to look at the zoning code and it's taken
that long and worked through many housing affiliated organizations to get to where we are today.
She thinks the staff has done an outstanding job and they're here to find solutions, to improve
housing choice, increase the housing supply, and encourage affordability. Will any of these
things actually happen, they don't know because they're not in charge of that, someone has to
build these places. She also thinks there are bad landlords and bad developers and there are
good landlords and good developers and people who want to preserve the feel of community in
Iowa City but just can't afford to do it right now. The City has to give them the tools that let the
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 25 of 27
good people do the good stuff. She thinks staff has brought forward a proposal well researched
that is trying to give people the tools that we think they need. People want absolutes, they want
predictions, but no one can predict what's going to happen. There's no assurance that it's going
to work, they are just doing their best to give the good people the right tools to do the good things
and that's why she supports this.
Padron doesn't have much to say, she likes the proposal and her main reason for supporting it
would be the sustainability part that was mentioned, mainly reducing carbon emissions and sees
density as less transportation and more ways of walking. She wants to give it a shot and it may
not work out but it may.
Hensch stated he is in favor with the majority of this, but like others have said tonight, he'd like
some more discussion and an opportunity to vote on these separately. He thinks he would vote
no on this because he really wants to vote on them separately. He might be able to be
persuaded on a couple of things. Hensch asked if this motion is voted down, is this just it, if this
motion fails then is this done tonight. Hekteon stated the Commission could ask for it to be
presented again at a future meeting or it could just go to City Council without Commission
recommendations. Additionally, the amendment on the floor could be amended.
Hensch stated he would support this motion if he could make some amendments to it because
his big concern is there should be an ownership requirement for the ADUs, particularly for the
attached ADUs. He would support this if they could have an amendment to allow that.
Wade wanted to share a little bit from where he is coming from and then the second part on the
ADU. He agrees there's no single solution, looking to bring back people to the community that
couldn't afford originally and also retain people in the community, from affordability. As far as the
ADU portion, he looks at that in two ways, from private ownership that was a good example of
the age in place and having somebody living on the same property that helps later in life but also
for private ownership, that's the owner occupied and provides a pathway for private owner to
essentially build value within their existing property to make it more affordable for their personal
ownership. That's the reason he's leaning towards private ownership on ADUs.
Elliott first wanted to thank everybody who's been here, it's been very helpful to hear everybody's
opinions to help them understand the issues. She was really impressed with the packet, all the
information was very helpful. She remains somewhat up in the air, she comes from one of those
historic district situations and really values the neighborhoods there. She doesn't want to upset
the neighborhood feel but does feel they need to move forward. With hesitation she will support
this.
Craig stated if they can pass majority of this tonight, she is willing to amend her motion to take
out 3C.
Craig amended her motion to recommend approval of everything except the language
related to accessory apartments, which should be discussed more.
Craig stated she is not in favor of the owner occupancy requirement and feels like concerns have
been concerns that the neighborhood associations should have been involve. She would like the
staff to give the neighborhood associations an opportunity to discuss and then based on that
discussion bring this back at a later time.
Planning and Zoning Commission
August 2, 2023
Page 26 of 27
Padron seconded the amendment to remove the section of proposed amendment 3C
regarding accessory apartments and talk about it later.
A vote was taken supporting the passage of all proposed amendments except the
proposed amendment regarding accessory apartments (3C). The motion passes 5-0.
Craig moved to defer the proposed amendments related to accessory apartments (3C) to
the first meeting in October and requested that neighborhood associations to be
conferred prior to that meeting. Padron seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the
motion passed 5-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: JULY 19,2023:
Elliott moved to approve the meeting minutes from July 19, 2023. Craig seconded the motion, a
vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0.
PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION:
Russett announced that a new commissioner was voted in last night by Council so hopefully they
will be joining the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Elliott moved to adjourn, seconded by Wade and the motion passed 5-0.
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2023-2024
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
8/3
9/7
10/19
11/2
11/16
12/7
12/21
1/4
1/18
2/15
3/1 1
4/5
4/196/21
7/5
7/19
8/2
CRAIG, SUSAN
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
ELLIOTI-MAGGIE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
HENSCH MIKE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
NOLTE MARTS
O/E
O/E
_
- --
- --
-- --
-- --
-- --
_ _ I
— ..
_ _
_ _
__ --
-- --
-- --
-- --
PADRON MARIA
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E I
X
SIGNS, MARK
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
TOWNSEND, BILLIE
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
WADE, CHAD
---
---
---
X
O/E I
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Not a Member
Item Number: 4.k.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
�--'°�'��� COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
September 5, 2023
Senior Center Commission: July 20
Attachments: Senior Center Commission: July 20
Approved Minutes
July 20, 2023
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
July 20, 2023
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Members Present: Angela McConville, Susan Mellecker, Lee McKnight, Warren
Paris, Jay Gilchrist, Nancy Ostrognai, Tasha Lard
Members Absent:
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, LaTasha DeLoach
Others Present: Bob Untiedt
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by McConville at 4:00 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE JUNE 15, 2023, MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the June 15, 2023. Motion carried on a
vote of 5/0. Paris/Lard
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
TRAIL PRESENTATION:
Bob Untiedt is the executive director of TRAIL (Tools and Resources for Active
Independent Living). The Senior Center has provided space for TRAIL's
administrative office in room 302 since 2017. Untiedt thanked the Senior Center
for use of the space. Untiedt reviewed how TRAIL was formed and noted it is
based part of the Village -to -Village network. TRAIL provides social programming
and volunteer support services. TRAIL members request assistance with various
tasks (such as transportation, yard work, or attending medical appointments) and
volunteers can sign up for these requests. TRAIL previously had a recommended
vendor program that vetted vendors but found that during the pandemic it
became too difficult to keep up with the changing landscape of the businesses.
They are hoping to start a member forum where people can recommend vendors
Approved Minutes
July 20, 2023
who they have worked with. Recently, a program called Life Transitions has been
created, which contracts with a social worker to assist TRAIL members who are
going through various life transitions. McConville asked if TRAIL still had a
phone buddy program, Untiedt noted that it is still part of their programming.
Melleker noted she had previously been the member service coordinator for
about two years for TRAIL. She asked how many volunteers TRAIL has. Untiedt
noted that there are currently 54 volunteers with about 30 being active in the last
two months.
Commissioners discussed the SEATS program as opposed to TRAIL's
transportation options and differences between them.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
DeLoach encouraged commissioners to note the DEI bulletin board on the first
floor. She reported the affinity groups including the Queer Elders group and
Elders of Color are continuing to meet. Elders of Color had their second meeting
and participation is increasing. She is working with the Downtown District on
some options for having restaurants provide meals once a month that community
members could pay a fee for and eat at the Senior Center. The Senior Center will
be working with Easton Designs on an annual report. The feasibility study for
Friends of the Iowa City Senior Center is complete. DeLoach spoke with the City
Manager's office, and they are looking into the possibility of hiring part time
hourly staff to bring back some evening and weekend hours. She also wanted to
make commissioners aware of the Renew Active partnership with United Health
Care that provides free memberships to people with that health care plan benefit.
The Senior Center is also working on a similar partnership with Silver Sneakers.
DeLoach highlighted the fashion show that is occurring tomorrow night at the
Senior Center, as well as a partnership with Hancher to bring guest acts to the
building this fall.
DeLoach noted a new volunteer opportunity, Senior Center Ambassadors will be
starting soon. Ambassadors can sign up for shifts greeting people, giving tours,
and distributing program calendars. She encouraged commissioners to consider
becoming a volunteer for this program.
Exterior building construction is still slated to start this fall. DeLoach is hoping to
set up a strategic planning session for the Senior Center soon.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Commissioners discussed various sustainability ideas such as a green roof and
solar. DeLoach noted that these items are being looked at for the renovation.
Pj
Approved Minutes
July 20, 2023
DeLoach noted staff is doing a small composting option for our personal food
waste. The commission would be interested in having the City's sustainability
office come and speak with the commission.
McKnight noted a few programming ideas including square dancing, trips to
Amana, and political presentations.
Ostrogani would like to discuss a designated bus stop across from the Senior
Center and more seating outside for bus riders.
Meeting Adjourned.
Approved Minutes
July 20, 2023
Senior Center Commission Attendance Record
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E =Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member
Iv
8/18/22
9/15/22
10/20/22
11/17/22
12/15/22
1/19/23
2/16/23
3/16/23
4/20/23
5/18/23
6/15/23
7/20/23
Name
Term Expires
Jeannie Beckman
12/31/22
NM
X
O/E
NM
NM
--
--
--
__
__
__
Jay
12/31/25
--
--
--
--
--
NM
NM
O/E
NM
O/E
X X
Gilchrist
Douglas
12/31/24
NM
O/E
O/E
--
--
--
--
__
__
__
__
Korty
Tasha
12/31/24
--
O/E
X
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
NM
X
O
X
Lard
Angela
12/31/24
NM
X
X
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
McConville
Lee
12/31/24
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
X
NM
O/E
X
X
McKnight
Susan
12/31/23
--
--
--
--
--
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
Mellecker
Nancy
5/18/23
--
--
__
_
__
_
__
--
X
OE
X
Ostrognai
Karen
12/31/23
NM
O/E
X
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Page
Warren
12/31/25
--
--
--
--
--
NM
NM
O
NM
X
X
X
Paris
Paula
12/31/22
NM
X
X
NM
NM
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Vaughan
Linda
12/31/23
NM
X
X
NM
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
--
Vogel
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E =Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member
Iv