HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-10-03 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 4.a.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 24
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: August 24
August 24, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Emma J. Harvat, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Louis Tassinary, Chad Simmons, Marie
Krebs, Wangui Gathua.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Lauren Merritt, Sikowis Nobiss.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 7:07.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Dillard read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of the meeting minutes of August 17, 2023: Gathua moved, and the motion was
seconded by Simmons. Motion passed 6-0.
TRC Logo Selection: Commissioner Johnson shared the four logos that have been designed for the
TRC. The Commission discussed each one and what they like about it. Simmons moved, and
Johnson seconded for the below image to be the logo for the TRC. Motion passed 5-1 (Gathua in
the negative).
Talking Circles: Facilitator LaMere provided an overview of the Talking Circle. A Talking Circle is a
way of providing traditional healing through coming together as relatives, respecting each other's
time and words that are expressed from the heart on various topics. Some Commissioners
expressed concern with cultural appropriation with sacred objects and smudging. LaMere replied
that the TRC would co -create the development of the Talking Circles. It was decided that the
Talking Circles would be held on Thursday, September 2111 and Saturday, September 301H
Commission Bylaws: Facilitator Gonzalez sent bylaws that they had modified over the weekend.
Staff had the City Attorney's Office (CRO) review the modified bylaws. The CAO's Office made two
suggestions—delete the two references to closed sessions as they are not correct interpretations
of Iowa law. Simmons moved to approve the bylaws with the changes by the CRO, Tassinary
seconded. The motion failed 2-4 (Dillard, Gathua, Krebs, Johnson in the negative).
Strategic Doing Workshops: On September 14th, a Strategic Doing (513) session will be held at the
Iowa City Senior Center. It will be followed up on September 16th at the South District Market.
Staff and Commissioners will both send out personal invitations to the community, including
those in the areas of non-profit, community, medical, religious/spiritual, business, University, and
School District. Marlen Mendoza and Angie Jordan will assist Facilitator Fixmer-Oraiz at the
sessions. There will be a separate Spanish speakers SD held on September 23. Dillard move to
hold this additional Spanish speaker's SD, Gathua seconded. The motion passed 6-0.
Fact Finding: Kearns and West will lead a fad -finding session on Wednesday, September 27, from
5-9, here at City Hall,
Adjourned: 9:35 p.m.
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Mectine Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
416
514
611
6/15
7120
8/1
812
813
8/17
8/24
917
9/14
9/16
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
p
P
p
Gathua
12/31124
P
P
p
P
P
P
p
p
P
P
Harris
12/31/24
A
P
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Krebs
1213124
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
p
P
P
P
A
Nobbs
12!3124
A
P
.A
P
P
P
P
P
P
A
Simmons
1213124
-
-
-
-
-
A
p
N
Tassinary
1213124
-
-
-
-
-
P
.A
p
KEY; P = Present
A = Absent
Item Number: 4.b.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: September 7 [See Recommendation]
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: September 7 [See
Recommendation]
r
moi,:.®r CITY OF IOWA CITY
' MEMORANDUM
Date: September 8, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Stefanie Bowers, Equity Director
Re: Recommendation from the Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission
At its September 7, 2023, meeting the Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission voted and
by a majority recommends the attached for its by-laws.
Additional action (check one)
No further action is needed
X Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
September 7, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission {TRC} Minutes
Emma J. Harvat, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Louis Tassinary, Chad Simmons, Marie
Krebs, Lauren Merritt, Sikowis Nobiss.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Wangui Gathua.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers, Redmond Jones.
Recommendation to City Council: Yes, the TRC has approved its by-laws. Asking Council to
approve too.
Meeting called to order: 7:02
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Merritt read the Land Acknowledgement.
Comments on items not on the agenda: Angie Jordan invited the TRC members to an upcoming
community event being held on Saturday, September 23, at the South District Market.
Approval of the meeting minutes of August 24, 2023: Item skipped. The minutes were not
available at the time of the meeting.
Commission Bylaws: After a brief discussion that clarified the revisions made by Facilitator
Gonzalez and those by the City Attorney's Office (CAO), Simmons moved, and Tassinary
seconded to approve the revised bylaws. This motion included removing the two sections on closed
sessions as advised by the CAO. Motion passed 7-0.
Better Together 2030 Plan: Cady Gerlach, Executive Director of Better Together 2023, presented
the history of the project, the vision, and the guiding principles. Gerlach closed the presentation by
asking the TRC to recommend that the City Council formally adopt the Inclusive Economic
Development Plan,
Inclusive Economic Development Plan: V Fixmer-Oraiz spoke on how community outreach and
engagement was conducted, including through Strategic Doing, research, surveys, and interviews.
Then went on to discuss the outreach highlights that included the demographics of those
respondents and concluded with the recommendations.
Strategic Doing Workshops: Time was spent crafting a "North Star Statement." The group
eventually agreed on the following:
How can we strategically build capacity and amplify the voices of BIPOC and ethnically
oppressed peoples in order to express their truths, all while addressing historical oppression,
genocide, racism, and the need to de -construct colonial systems, ultimately creating foundations
for safer spaces for healing and empowerment?
The motion passed 7-0.
Facilitator Work Plan for Phase One: Kearns and West will lead a fact-finding session on
Wednesday, September 27, from 5-9, here at City Hall. At this session, the TRC will select focus
topics, focus areas, data, and the methodology for collection.
The TRC was asked to hold October 25 and 26 for a session by Think Peace on truth -telling.
Announcements of Commissioners: Nobiss gave an update on the fust -ever Indigenous Peoples'
Day being held here in Iowa City and that tickets have gone on sale for Truthsgiving: The Truth
Will Not Be Whitewashed.
Adjourned: 10:02 p.m.
This meeting can be viewed in its entirety at this link.
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Item Number: 4.c.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: September 14
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: September 14
September 14, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Emma J. Harvat, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Clif Johnson, Louis Tassinary, Lauren Merritt, Wangui
Gathua, Marie Krebs.
Commissioners not present: Eric Harris, Sikowis Nobiss, Chad Simmons.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 5:31 p.m.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Facilitator Fixmer-Oraiz read the Land Acknowledgement.
Strategic Doing Workshops: The session began with the participants including community,
Commissioners, and facilitators creating community agreements. Facilitators went over the
difference between strategic planning and strategic doing.
The pathfinder projects are:
1) A Financial Literacy & Credit Builder Program. Members: Tracy Jon Sargeant, Charles
Eastham, Amos Kiche, Louis Tassinary. Meeting October 30 at 6 pm at the Center for
Worker Justice.
2) Community Cohort- Develop a curriculum for a cohort of community members.to engage
truth -telling, fact-finding, and reconciliation/healing throughout the community.
Members: Monica Nieves, Chastity Dillard, Tony Branch, Laura Bergus, Annie Tucker, Clif
Johnson, Mark Pries, Kim Scott, Wangui Gathua. Meeting October 1 at 4 pm at (CORE
Boxing Club.
3) A Focused Marketing Campaign for BIPOC & Ethnically -Oppresses Peoples to Connect
them to employment opportunities & training through Iowa Works. Members: Lauren
Merritt, Kate Moreland, Nancy Bird, Marie Krebs, Corey Johnson. Meeting October 2 at 5
pm on Zoom.
Adjourned: 9:02 p.m.
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Item Number: 4.d.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Economic Development Committee: November 28 [See Recommendation]
Attachments: Economic Development Committee: November 28 [See Recommendation]
r
CITY OF IOWA CITY
��` MEMORANDUM
Date: Dec. 2, 2022
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Wendy Ford, City Council Economic Development Committee
Re: Recommendation from City Council Economic Development Committee Board
At their November 28, 2022 meeting the City Council Economic Development Committee made
the following recommendation to the City Council (preliminary minutes follow):
Thomas moved and Alter seconded a motion to approve a recommendation to the full
council for $25,000 for MDClowa (Multicultural Development Center of Iowa and for EDC,
Inc. (Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc.) in the FY24 budget. Motion carried (3-0).
Additional action (check one)
x No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
Agenda item was prepared by staff for Council action
EDC minutes November 29, 2022 - p.l
Approved
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
November 29, 2022
EMMA HARVAT HALL, 4:00 P.M.
Members Present: Laura Bergus, Megan Alter, John Thomas
Members Absent:
Staff Present: Wendy Ford, Geoff Fruin, Sue Dulek, Rachel Kilburg
Others Present: Tracy Jon Sargeant, Multicultural Development Center of Iowa and Curt Nelson,
Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc.
Recommendations to council:
Thomas moved and Alter seconded a motion to approve a recommendation to the full council
for $25,000 for MDClowa and for EDC, Inc. in the FY24 budget. Motion carried (3-0).
Cal I meeting to order:
Bergus called the meeting to order at 4:OOP.M.
Consider approval of minutes from the October 19, 2022 Economic Development Committee
meeting:
Alter moved and Thomas seconded a motion to approve the minutes of the October 19, 2022 meeting.
Motion passed (3-0).
of Iowa (MDClowa) and Entrepreneurial Development Center:
Ford introduced the topic with a brief background on the City's support of each organization. She said
that the City's support of MDClowa is fairly recent, beginning in FY22, with the onset of the business
incubator. Because the program continues, staff wanted to include MDClowa in the group of annual
requests for Community Development funding, vs. Opportunity funding from which funds were paid
initially. She said that the City has been supporting EDC, Inc. in Cedar Rapids for several years, to
which Nelson added City assistance has totaled $206,000 (since FY15).
Ford introduced Tracy Jon Sargeant With MDClowa. He started by citing the impact report that was
included in the packet. He noted the program wouldn't exist if it weren't for the city's support of this
program that supports historically underestimated and underserved parts of the community that have
aspirations of being small business owners. 31 business have been supported, with a huge amount of
one -on -ane support, technical assistance, etc. Support goes on after the 16 -week cohort graduates.
Focused on BIPOC owned businesses. Try to be as inclusive as possible. 100% of people
participating identify as a person of color. Their own survey revealed that one of the biggest
challenges for BIPOC businesses is access to capital, so another strategy of MDClowa is to create a
microloan and small dollar loan program that the City supported with funds for loan loss reserve. This
enables MDClowa to serve as an affiliate to the Iowa Community Capital affiliate for Johnson County.
The requirement for people to qualify for a loan from that program is to have completed the program.
They are halfway through their 3rd cohort. Established partnership with ICAD, Builders and Backers.
EDC minutes November 29, 2022 - p.2
Approved
Some of the people that have gone through B&B have come out of that program to enter into the
MDClowa program.
Explained how tight the budget it, how private funding is hard to come by, though this past year, a big
private donation. Important to note that the City is the second largest supporter of MDClowa, along
with Target, Green State Credit Union and Hills Bank.
Alter asked how big the team is. Sargeant explained it is him only, a challenge of being a small non-
profit. Has a very flexible FT employer which allows him to do this full time as well. Suggested that
ARPA funding could be a source of support to add staff people. Partnership with ICC allowed a
business coach paid for half and half between ICC and MDClowa, about who he spoke highly.
Thomas explained he is not a businessperson and said he appreciated learning what goes into
business entrepreneurship.
Curt Nelson interjected, offering support to MDClowa
Bergus noted that she has firsthand volunteer experience with Sergeant's cohorts, having spoken to
bath previous cohorts and offered free legal advice to members.
At this point, the Committee decided to vote on the two requests together after the second
presentation.
Curt Nelson, CEO of EDC, Inc. spoke next. Nelson founded the organization in 2003, so this is the
20th year of EDC. He explained that a measure of success is whether the companies they help have
improved. They use hard economic statistics, rather than number of events and hours spent. They
have worked with more than 1300 businesses over the years. They have about 120 investors that fund
their effort. He then cited numbers on capital raised, increased revenue in the companies, average
wage in the companies they help (above the county's median), increased payroll — the key metrics
they use in measuring impact.
They focus on high impact interstate businesses, about 1t3 of which are startups, 113 businesses up to
5 years old, and 113 mature businesses. He cited Viewpoint Molecular, a local company that has
developed a technology to create "cage" with a protein bonding component that will bond to cancer
cells which then releases an isotope that then washes the cancer out of the body. Helped to take the
idea from academia to "the street." He said that if EDC hadn't been there for them, that they would not
have ended up in Iowa. He said they would have been drawn to the coasts where capital is easier to
access. Next, he talked about Michel and Riley Eynon Lynch and the success of their business and
how they are reinvesting the community which, he said, is far greater than the funding the City invests
in EDC, Inc.
Thomas thanked Nelson for the specific stories of businesses and says he remembers meeting the
folks with Pear Deck. Alter said she appreciates the depth of the explanations and the number of
different partners that are involved.
Fruin inquired about how much of the public funding goes to administration and how much goes to the
orgs. Nelson said that 100% goes to administration.
Bergus talked about the City's new Strategic Plan and its three value lenses — racial equity and social
justice, climate action and partnerships and engagement. She asked if EDC Inc's focus has changed
at all with regards to these values. Nelson said they only look at businesses and their potential growth
EDC minutes November 29, 2022 - p.3
Approved
and economic vitality. They don't look at anything except the business because a successful business
climate builds the economic base of the community that allows the work in the three groups.
Thomas moved and Alter seconded a motion to approve a recommendation to the full council for
$25,000 for MDClowa and for EDC, Inc. in the FY24 budget. Motion carried (3-0).
Staff Report
None
Other Business
Bergus asked Ford about how these funds are promoted or accessed by the community. Ford gave
some history about how it began first with the arts organizations. She said they approached the City
touting the economic impact they bring to the community. For several years, it was only the arts
organizations and each year, they were invited to present an annual report focusing on their economic
impact along with their request for support for the coming budget year. The Economic Development
Committee would then recommend to the full council that they be budgeted into the Community
Development Assistance line in the coming budget.
In 2015, Curt Nelson approached the City and was invited for consideration also. In 2023, when
MDClowa approached the City with their request, it was mid -budget year, and the City Manager
approved $25,000 in support through another line called the Opportunity Fund, a smaller budget line
reserved for Economic Development opportunities that arise during a budget year for activities that
surface after budgeting is complete. Ford said that we've never put out a "Call for Proposals." She
suggested the size of the budget pie could not increase proportionate to the need, which would then
create the risk of underfunding all.
Fruin added that Economic Development is largely outsourced by the municipalities. He said that
when we pool resources, such as neighboring municipalities contributing to ICAD, our dollars work
harder together. Before initially funding EDC, Inc., and because they focus on interstate commerce,
we checked that our neighboring municipalities agreed that this economic development endeavor was
worth the area's investment. MDClowa's work is more council specific to Iowa City's goals and
aspirations and thus, needn't necessarily qualify with the "wider net standard" that ICAD and EDC, Inc.
do.
Fruin said Ford alluded to the Linn County municipal model that went to an application and
competition for public funding that some may argue creates a demand for too many small pieces of a
limited budget pie. We could do a competitive call but might get to a situation where we'd risk
underfunding orgs. Fruin told members that if they are hearing a need that is not being met, they
should share with staff who can then investigate and look for opportunities to help.
Bergus shared that she had just found an org that supports Latina women -owned businesses. Fruin
said we could look at it. He said we have funded Andre Wright and his org with sponsorships of events
that support the work, highlighting different levels of support the city can offer: Larger scale funding,
such as ICAD, funding from our Community Development line that may or may not be in partnership
with neighboring municipalities, and opportunities that arise during mid -fiscal year, likely very specific
to Iowa City -specific goals. Bergus said she appreciated the explanation.
Alter noted how valuable attending these meetings is.
Adiournmenit
Bergus moved and Thomas seconded that the meeting be adjourned (4:58 PM). Motion carried (3-0)
EDC minutes November 29, 2022 - p.4
Approved
Council Economic Development Committee
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2020-22
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
--- = not a member
O/E = Absent/Excused
TERM
01127120
07/13/20
12/09120
10127/21
10119122
11129122
NAME
EXP.
Megan
Alter
01/02/24
---
---
—
X
X
Laura
Ber us
01102/24
---
---
—
X
X
John
Thomas
01/02124
X
X
X
X
X
X
Susan
Mims
01/02/22
X
X
X
X
---
--
Mazahir
Salih
01/02/22
X
X
O/E
X
---
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
--- = not a member
O/E = Absent/Excused
Item Number: 4.e.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Historic Preservation Commission: August 10
Attachments: Historic Preservation Commission: August 10
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
AUGUST 10, 2023-5:30 PM—FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Deanna Thomann, Noah Stork, Jordan Sellergren, Andrew Lewis, Nicole
Villanueva, Margaret Beck, Frank Wagner, Christina Welu-Reynolds
MEMBERS ABSENT: Carl Brown
STAFF PRESENT: Jessica Bristow
OTHERS PRESENT: Cecile Kuenzli, Donald McFarlane, Lena Michalek, Kevin Boyd, Karen
Kubby, Regina Bailey, Ginny Blair
CALL TO ORDER:
Sellergren called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Cecile Kuenzli is a past member of the Historic Preservation Commission and in light of some recent
events she recalls some words that Marla Svenson, who was hired multiple times by the City to survey
neighborhoods for a possible designation as historic districts, said. She said that historic preservation
begins with the zoning. To that end, Kuenzli is wondering if the Commission was consulted about the
proposed citywide amendments to the zoning code or if they have examined the memorandum that the
City sent to the Planning and Zoning Commission about proposed changes. Have they considered
what effect these changes might have on historic districts and neighborhoods; would they stabilize
neighborhoods or destabilize them? Is weakening design standards a good idea or not? Kuenzli
shared with the Commission copies of the proposed changes in case members of the Commission
hadn't seen it. She believes there's a meeting on September 5 to discuss these with Council.
Donald McFarlane lives on Summit Street and two months from today, September the 9th, will be the
50th anniversary of the designation of Summit Street Historic Area. He thinks Summit Street was the
first historic area designated in Iowa City, quite possibly one of the first in Iowa. McFarlane stated he
lives in a house that they raised their family in and he is very concerned about this document from
planning and zoning. He noted it's been a very large amount of work and has been very well done and
it's obviously been thought through very intensively. However, there are things missing from the
document. The first is any evidence that reducing design standards actually increases the number of
affordable housing, particularly in RS -5 levels, which is what Summit Street is. McFarlane stated RS -5
levels in Iowa City really can't be affordable, unless they become almost slums, the calculation is just
not possible. The second absence in the report is the absence of the family house, there's almost no
mention of family. For him, families owning and living in houses is the stabilizing force and is often the
driving engine that makes Iowa City a great place to live long term. Families working hard to raise their
families, that's where he wants to live. The third thing which is missing is historic preservation, it's only
mentioned a couple of times, and sometimes it's mentioned rather oddly for commercial housing.
Commercial housing generally is going to be one story of commercial space shops and then
apartments above that, and for some reason they mentioned historic preservation for that. There is no
mention about historic preservation with the other zoning changes, which he finds very concerning.
Historic preservation is really a trust because nobody can guarantee the future or that their house will
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
Page 2 of 9
be more historic, more valuable and more wonderful in 50 years than it was when this was passed. But
there is a belief by this Commission and a belief by the homeowner of stability and enhancing beauty of
neighborhoods, but it's not very carefully written in stone. Iowa City, for instance, could with a simple
motion abolish the Planning and Zoning Commission, there is no general prohibition of that or it could
certainly appoint its own members to be on the commission. Many town planners, including he
suspects some people in Iowa City, regard historic preservation as inhibiting the natural growth of the
City because it makes it hard to maintain and look after old buildings. They may also have a different
agenda than that. So he is very concerned about this, maybe his concerns are overstated, but he urges
all of them to very carefully to read that document and make marginal notes. He would really advise
them to put this on the agenda to discuss the deficiencies in the report, or at least work through their
networks to try to get historic preservation into the center and percolating throughout the planning and
zoning document.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS:
HPC23-0036: 738 Rundell Street — Longfellow Historic District (changes to previously approved front
window configuration):
Bristow began the staff report showing a map of the Longfellow Historic District and where this house is
located. She stated this project first came to the Commission in December 2021 as a project to remove
the attached garage, create a living space out of that and add a garage in the back by the alley. Per the
zoning code, once there's no longer a garage there they must remove the driveway and the required
parking per zoning means the garage is built on the alley. Bristow showed one of the project drawings
that was submitted and then a photo -shopped image of removing the garage from the building. The
approval involved creating a foundation area because the opening went all the way down to grade and
originally involved adding to windows. The windows were approved to be aligned with the other
residential living space windows on the house per guidelines. At one point during the project, Bristow
stated the owners called her out to look at the project and instead of what had been approved, they had
installed a header all the way across the entire wall. Because of that header, they would not be able to
put the windows at the height that was approved. Because of the fact that this changed the
configuration of the windows staff asked the owner to hire an architect to show that it was required to
have a header of this size in the wall with separate window size openings. The owners did hire an
architect who did provide documentation of the need. Bristow included the calculation showing that a
nine foot opening does require a double 2 by 12 for a header and the documentation also talked about
how by keeping this configuration of headers the windows would drop to a position which would align
with the existing window around the garage. Therefore, currently the project is to approve the header
and because of the fact that it won't align with the windows on the front of the house, it would need to
be approved by exception to the guidelines. The project is removing the garage condition so the
windows on the front should not align with the garage window around the side.
Lena Michalek (Horizon Architecture) is the architectural designer with the company that had written the
recommendation for this header. She has a master's degree from the University of Kansas and a
certificate in historic preservation. She stated she is newer to Iowa City and not quite 100% familiar with
the guidelines but can help answer any questions the Commission might have.
Wagner asked what's going on above the second -floor framing and is there actually space up above
that. Michalek stated there is some space up above that with a drop ceiling and she believes there's a
bedroom in that upper area up above the garage.
Thomann asked about the original structure of the house itself and was the garage was built on at
some point. Bristow stated the garage was built with the house at the same time and the window
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
Page 3 of 9
location on the garage is original to the home.
Michalek stated the massing of the house, the main part of the house is front and center, but the
garage, which was original to the house, is completely stepped back and the floor of the garage is
stepped down and the floor of the bedroom is also stepped down. Therefore, the massing of the original
garage is step back from the house so they believe that dropping the windows to match the original
windows on the garage would fit with the overall massing of the original design. Also the existing
header there, that 2 by 6 header, could be removed it's not there structurally anymore but then there
would be a 5 inch difference if they were to align the windows to the bottom of the 2 by 12 header
versus aligning it to the bottom of the 2 by 6 header.
MOTION: Beck moves to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 738 Rundell
Street, as presented in the staff report through the use of an exception to the guidelines for
structural requirements. Villanueva second.
A vote was taken and the motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Brown absent).
HPC23-0040: 533 South Summit Street- (roof and columns for a side porch
Bristow noted this house is in the Summit Street Historic District on the corner of Bowery and Summit.
The house has aluminum siding and an existing front porch. The proposal is to add to the stoop and
create a porch out of it, which was always the plan. That would involve adding a small roof and columns
to match the front porch. She noted the typical front porch is eight feet deep and this will be only four
feet deep, the roof will be at the same pitch as the front porch but it won't extend as tall on the wall
because it's a shorter porch. Bristow showed sketches of the proposal and noted the columns and the
frieze board will match the front porch, and they propose to put a metal roof on it too.
MOTION Welu-Renyolds moves to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
533 South Summit Street, as presented in the application with the following conditions that the
porch roof slope matches the front porch, and the column locations match the historic porch.
Thomann second.
A vote was taken and the motion was denied on a vote of 7-0 (Wagner recused, Brown absent).
Public Hearing — Discuss landmark designation for 715 North Dodge Street
Bristow stated this property is the original Emma Goldman Clinic and the proposal is to designate this a
local landmark property. The house is a bungalow with Craftsman influences, it's possible that it was a
catalog home, it is located on the corner of the alley between Brown Street and Ronald's on North
Dodge Street. It is located firmly in the middle of the Brown Street Historic District and is considered a
key property. Within classifications, key properties are either very important to the community or they
could be considered individually eligible for the National Register and also a local landmark
designation. For this property, nothing will change about how the property is regulated, a key property
is treated the same as a local landmark within the regulations, the designation is more about telling the
story of Iowa City. Bristow showed some more images of the structure and noted it is very intact and
has architectural integrity.
Bristow next read through a document former Commission member Kevin Boyd wrote, he had been
working with the Emma Goldman Clinic regarding their anniversary. The Emma Goldman Clinic was
founded in 1973 by a group of 10 local college age feminist women who decided in the wake of the
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
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January 1973 Landmark US Supreme Court Case Roe vs. Wade to promote to provide health care
services differently to women. These Founders created a clinic focused on feminist health care - health
care for and by women, delivering health care as a woman would have to receive it. It was a pioneering
and radical approach to health care at the time. The Emma Goldman Clinic opened at 715 North Dodge
on September 1, 1973, less than eight months after the Supreme Court decision. It was the first
feminist health care clinic in the Midwest and just the fourth in the country - the other three were in
California.
The house itself was a symbol of health care done differently, a place that removed the power dynamic
of traditional male -dominated health care. The Founders knew they needed a place to house the new
approach to health care, so they pooled their resources to purchase the property and fund the startup
costs. Roxie Tullis, one of the founders, used the death benefit of her husband, who died in the
Vietnam War. Others got small loans from family and friends. One of the parents paid the women to
paint their house rather than give them a loan. The property at 715 North Dodge was selected out of
necessity and opportunity. The Collective needed a property that was zoned commercial, close to
campus, and affordable.
The vernacular house, heavily influenced by the craftsman style, was built around 1920. By 1973 it
was being used as a rental property with three furnished apartments, one on each floor and a third in
the basement, and it was for sale. The owners also wanted to leave the furniture behind so not having
to furnish the clinic was a selling feature. The basement apartment continued to be rented and provided
additional income for the clinic in the early days. Once the property was acquired, the Founders went to
work to prepare for the clinic's opening. They were a collective, so each decision was made
collaboratively, all were equal in the decision making. One of the easier decisions was the namesake,
Emma Goldman, a feminist pioneer in women's health care, among other things. FBI Director J. Edgar
Hoover called her the most dangerous woman in America. She spoke to the power dynamics the
Founders were trying to change.
By September 1, the clinic opened at 715 North Dodge Street six women had appointments for the first
day. They built a comprehensive women's clinic providing abortions, birth control consultation,
gynecological care, self -exam clinics, breast screenings, alternative counseling, positive pregnancy
groups, well-child clinics, and a 24-hour hotline. All patients had a patient advocate. The nature of the
property, a home in a neighborhood, was part of the point to provide an atmosphere that was
welcoming, familiar, and removed the power dynamic of a traditional medical office. The house also
emphasized that their services were routine health care procedures. One of the founders, Deborah
Nye, said in 1973, "We want the women to be in a comfortable, cheerful surroundings because it's not a
serious operation, it's a minor operation". Press account described the waiting room that could be
anyone's living room highlighting the art, books, thriving plants, throw pillows on chairs, and classical
music playing in the background. The kitchen was converted to a laboratory but retained the cabinets
and countertops. Upstairs, exam rooms looked like bedrooms they once were with floral curtains and
hardwood floors and canvas director chairs.
The Emma Goldman Clinic was home to protests and even an attempted firebombing in the early
morning of June 13, 1978. Three Molotov cocktails from a gasoline -filled wine bottles were thrown at
the clinic, one landed on the roof and did minor damage, one rolled off and caused minor fire damage
in the yard, and a third didn't explode. No one was charged. A month later the community held a rally
supporting the Clinic. One of the many times the community rallied to support the Emma Goldman
Clinic. As the original Emma Goldman Clinic expanded it acquired the home just south of 715 North
Dodge Street. By 1985 they purchased and move to a former pediatrician's clinic in North Dubuque
Street. Originally called the Emma Goldman Clinic for women, eventually the name changed to just the
Emma Goldman Clinic to be more reflective of the comprehensive services it provides.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
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Eventually the house at 715 North Dodge was converted back to a single-family home. It looks much
like it did in 1973 with some modest changes, the commercial railings were removed, the front porch
opened and the synthetic siding removed. The original Emma Goldman Clinic for Women signage was
moved from 715 North Dodge but is on display at the current Emma Goldman Clinic. The 10 founders
include Ginny Blair, Robin Christiansen, Melissa Farley, Diane Greene Lent, Darca Nicholson, Deb
Nye, Patty Pressley, Carmen Salas, Roxy Tullis, and Barb Yates.
Bristow stated for landmark designation in Iowa City the Commission has to determine if the property
meets two general criteria A and B, that it is significant to American and/or Iowa City history,
architecture, archaeology or culture, and possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials and
workmanship. It then needs to meet at least one of the other criteria (C -F). Staff recommends that it
would meet the criteria for architecture and because of its integrity. The main point of this landmark
designation though would be criteria C as it is associated with events that have made a significant
contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
Sellergren opened the public hearing
Kevin Boyd stated at his final meeting on this Commission, just two months ago, he talked about the
importance of telling a fuller history of Iowa City and making sure to preserve and share the City's
history that reflects the values in the community as it exists today, and has always existed. Boyd noted
they are at the critical 50 -year mark, an important point in historic preservation from the 1970s in Iowa
City where activism and the struggle for social justice really settled here and many of the individuals
and groups contributed to the history. This is an opportunity to highlight that history and one of the work
plan goals is identifying opportunities to highlight Iowa City's history as a leader in social justice, racial
equality and human rights and preserve the stories and structures that helped define that history. This
nomination fits that objective. This project got started before he left the Commission and it's an
opportunity to add a unique Iowa City story. The story of these Founders, radical college-age feminist
badasses, who 50 years ago this month were preparing to open the Emma Goldman Clinic. When he
researched the history he was really in awe of the Founders and how much they were able to
accomplish in such a short period of time, and how they work together to do it, how really radical it was,
and also how relevant that fight and those works still feels today, 50 years later. The Founder story
along with the property at 715 North Dodge, which is a residential home, is so much part of Iowa City's
history it deserves to be among the properties listed as Iowa City Landmarks. He urges the
Commission to support this landmark nomination and also wanted to thank the property owners
Jennifer and Benton for their open mindedness and support sharing their property's history.
Karen Kubbv stated besides being a community member who's interested in historic preservation, she
was the director at the Emma Goldman Clinic from 1999 to 2008. She remembers in the early 1980s,
being a young person trying to prevent fire-bombing by just being at the clinic all night, moving around a
lot, dancing and walking around and trying to stay up because at that point the anti -choice movement
didn't want to hurt people, so she was trying to protect the property. Kubby has a long history with the
Clinic and the Clinic is now the oldest reproductive healthcare nonprofit in the country that provides
abortion care, those California clinics that were nonprofits no longer exist. There's lots of reasons why
clinics close and throughout history the people who have worked at the Clinic and run the Clinic have
been really wonderfully stubborn and have fought violence and threats and changes in health care and
changes to the internal structure that were really hard for the Clinic. This is really a landmark for the
country, at some level since it's the oldest clinic, and there'll be lots of activities for celebration come
early September. Kubby also hopes the Commission will approve this and also wanted to thank Kevin
Boyd, and this Commission, or the value of looking at not just the grandiose places, but those places
that are from a wide variety of the community.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
Page 6 of 9
Regina Bailey is currently helping the Clinic work on their 50th anniversary celebration and can't tell
them how significant this nomination is to the Founders and the early staff as the early Collective
Member as they consider their 50th anniversary, she worked at the Clinic in the early 90s, and its
significance to this community. She grew up in Iowa City, its significance to this community merits this
designation. Additionally, if the reading of that history gives a little bit of curiosity about the Clinic she
invites them to an event at Film Scene on September 3 for a documentary called From One Place To
Another that was created in the early 90s talking about the founding of the Clinic. The event is at 3:30
on Sunday afternoon of Labor Day weekend and it's a great film which will give a sense of what it took
to create the Clinic and how this collective group of women could create it so quickly. By designating
this as a Landmark it's a reminder of the social justice history in this community and it's also a reminder
of the incredible things that small groups of people with great ideas can do in a short amount of time
and make a huge difference not only in the community, in the state, but in the country.
Kubby was remiss and wanted to let everyone know that one of the founding members is here in the
audience, Ginny Blair, who's been in this community this whole time and has worn many hats, but a
founding member of the Emma Goldman Clinic is a big one.
Sellergren closed the public hearing.
Thomann noted she learned so much and it's great to have this information and the house itself is
gorgeous but with the history, of course this makes sense.
MOTION: Wagner moves to approve the designation of 715 North Dodge Street, original Emma
Goldman clinic as an Iowa City historic landmark based on the following criteria for local
designation, criteria A, B, C and E. Welu-Renyolds second.
A vote was taken and the motion was approved on a vote of 8-0 (Brown absent).
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Certificate of No Material Effect -Chair and Staff review
HPC23-0038: 804 Iowa Avenue — College Hill Conservation District (railing and stucco repair or
replacement):
Bristow stated this house 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. Some area of the stucco had been replaced with a fake stucco at one point in time, and
it's failing and the railing is a little wobbly as it is the original railing from 1966.
Minor Review -Staff review
HPC23-0027: 331 South Summit Street — Summit Street Historic District (rear deck addition).,
Bristow stated this was adding a deck on the back of the house.
_HPC23-0034: 614 North Johnson Street— Brown Street Historic District (roof shingle replacement,
radon mitigation installation, chimney repair):
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
Page 7 of 9
Bristow stated this is one of three 1840 sandstone houses in town. It needs a lot; it needs a new roof
and some tuckpointing of the chimney. They will install a RADON Mitigation.
HPC23- 0039: 420 North Gilbert Street— Northside Historic District (front steo reolacement):
Bristow stated this house is just getting wood stairs instead of the cast precast concrete stairs
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JULY 13. 2023:
MOTION: Beck moves to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's July
13, 2023, meeting, as written. Villanueva seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-
0 (Brown absent).
COMMISSION DISCUSSION
Bristow stated the Historic Preservation Awards will be handed out on September 28 at the Highlander.
People have until August 24th to respond and at that point staff will start making the presentation and
asking for photos. This is the 40th annual ceremony and Friends at Historic Preservation and the City
are both paying for light refreshments and then they'll have the presentation and then they'll have the
cash bar in the lounge open after that.
Other announcements, the director of Corridor Can is setting up a community engagement festival
called Can -Con 2023, it will be held in the Ped Mall and the library on Sunday, August 27. They are
trying to increase engagement with City government so they sent this around hoping they might get
some interest from commissioners to potentially sit at a table as representatives of the commission
during the festival. If anyone is interested let Bristow know.
Bristow noted regarding the zoning proposal if the Commission wants to put it on the agenda please let
her know and they can put it on the next agenda. She knows a little bit about the zoning code changes.
One, there is a zoning code currently that a duplex can only be on a corner, the zoning code will
change so there can be a duplex in the middle of the block. The effort is to increase density of housing,
the lot would still need to meet all of the requirements that the zoning code has for a duplex. Bristow
stated there has been some concern based on the emails and calls that she's gotten that this will
suddenly lead to demolitions in districts and people building duplexes and ignoring the guidelines.
Bristow stated they can regulate that within a historic district so there's still not really the possibility of
demoing something in the middle of a block to build a new building.
Sellergren asked if there might be the possibility of adding a door or something and converting
properties to duplexes. Bristow stated the guidelines are clear about not adding a second front door to
a house. The historic district preservation overlay still applies.
The other issue this has brought up Bristow explained is that currently if someone has an accessory
dwelling unit, like on the second floor of a garage or something like that, it is allowed only in certain
zoning areas, and they are increasing the areas where that can happen. It would be someone either
adding living space to an existing garage that is already big enough to do that or there could be
someone wanting to take down a garage to build a garage with an accessory dwelling unit. Again, it
would again fall under the Commission's purview for review of both the demolition and the new
construction. There is also some change to the height limitations she can't remember the exact change
there but is sure that it was spawned by concerns about a new house going up adjacent to the
Northside Historic District recently. So it's up to the Commission whether or not they want to have
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
August 10, 2023
Page S of 9
further discussion. Otherwise, it is going to Council so it might be good to watch or attend the Council
meeting and speak up.
ADJOURNMENT:
Wagner moved to adjourn the meeting. Thomann seconded. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0
(Brown absent).
The meeting was adjourned at 6:37 pm
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD
2022-2023
KEY: X =Present
O =Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
-- = Not a member
TERM
8/11
9/8
10/13
11110
1/12
2/9
3/22
4/13
5/11
6/8
7/13
8/10
NAME
EXP.
BECK,
6/30/24
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
MARGARET
BOYD, KEVIN
6130/23
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
—
—
BROWN,
6/30/23
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
CARL
LARSON,
6130124
O/E
O/E
O
—
—
—
—
--
KEVIN
SELLERGREN,
6130122
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
JORDAN
STORK, NOAH
6130124
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
THOMANN,
6/30123
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
DEANNR
VILLANUEVA,
6/30/25
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
NICOLE
WAGNER,
6/30/23
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
FRANK
WELD-
6/30/25
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
REYNOLDS,
CHRISTINA
LEWIS,
ANDREW
—
—
—
—
X
7XI
KEY: X =Present
O =Absent
O/E= Absent/Excused
-- = Not a member
Item Number: 4.f.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Housing & Community Development Commission: July 20 [See Recommendation]
Attachments: Housing & Community Development Commission: July 20 [See
Recommendation]
.® CITY OF IOWA CITY
-�� `1MEMORANDuM
Date: September 22, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Brianna Thul, Community Development Planner
Re: Recommendation from the Housing and Community Development Commission
At their July 20, 2023 meeting, the Housing and Community Development Commission made
the following recommendation to the City Council:
• By a vote of 7-0 the Commission moved to recommend that City Council accept changes
to the NOME -ARP Allocation Plan and approve the substantial amendment to the City's
FY21 Annual Action Plan.
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
(approved by Council August 15, 2023)
MINUTES FINAL
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
JULY 20, 2023 — 6:30 PM
FORMAL MEETING
THE CENTER ASSEMBLY ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kaleb Beining, Maryann Dennis, Karol Krotz, Kiran Patel, James Peirce
Becci Reedus, Kyle Vogel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Eckhardt, Jennifer Haylett (resigned 7120)
STAFF PRESENT: Erika Kubly, Stan Laverman, Brianna Thu]
OTHERS PRESENT: Crissy Canganelli (Shelter House)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 7-0 the Commission moved to recommend that City Council accept changes to the HOME -
ARP Allocation Plan and approve the substantial amendment to the City's FY21 Annual Action Plan,
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Beining called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
WELCOME NEW MEMBER:
Welcomed James Pierce.
OFFICER NOMINATIONS:
Dennis moved to reelect Beining as Commission Chair, seconded by Vogel, a vote was taken and the
motion passed 7-0.
Patel moved to reelect Maryann Dennis as Vice Chair, Krotz seconded the motion, a vote was taken and
the motion passed 7-0.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: MAY 18, 2023:
Dennis moved to approve the minutes of May 18, 2023. Vogel seconded the motion. A vote was taken
and the minutes were approved 7-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
HOUSING INSPECTIONS OVERVIEW:
Commissioner Vogel requested that the City Housing Inspection Services staff present information on
what issues staff have been seeing during inspections that are affecting the access to housing.
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 2 of 7
Laverman began by noting he had put in the agenda packet the Guide to Successful Rental Inspection
and is here tonight to talk a little bit about housing inspections. Housing inspection services oversees the
systematic inspection of the licensed rental units within Iowa City. Currently, they have roughly 4500
rental permits and 20,000 units, those units are inspected on a yearly basis or every other year,
depending on the type of structure that it is. Older multifamily that were constructed without sprinklers are
inspected every year and single families with four or more bedrooms are inspected yearly, and then
everything else is inspected every two years. On top of that, they oversee nuisance complaints and are
seeing about 2500 to 3000 nuisance complaints a year. Those complaints range from tall grass and
weeds to snow on the sidewalk to trash cans and trash in yards, vehicles not parked where they're
supposed to be, etc. Their department also does the inspection for housing assistance, which is about
1000 of those inspections a year as well.
Laverman noted the Guide to Successful Rental Inspection gives a broad overview of what they look for
and if it meets the minimum housing code. They are looking for some very basic items as well as very
important items. Are the walls, windows, and electrical outlets correctly installed, are there working
smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, and then it gets more nuanced as they go through it. Laverman
stated it is important to note what they don't get involved with such as lease issues between tenants and
landlords and landlords not giving proper notice. That is not a housing code issue, it's a violation of the
tenants' rights. That is something they're happy to have a conversation with the landlord about but don't
have any authority to police or enforce anything like that. They sometimes do get those calls and try to
help people as much as possible. The typical things they see during inspections or things that prohibit
people from getting into housing are very basic things like smoke alarms and fire extinguishers not in
place or not operational. They get a lot of moisture issues right now, and when dealing with housing
assistance, anytime there are children under age six, they have to be careful to not put those families in
housing older than 1978 because of the lead-based paint probability. Because the inspections don't
identify lead-based paint, or go into that in depth, they just assume anything pre -1978 has lead-based
paint. That can lead to a barrier at times for people getting housing. One of the last things that they
tackled is radon in single family and duplexes, that was added in 2018. The began reviewing that
because they were seeing a lot of properties change hands as rentals and there was never any evidence
of radon mitigation. In Iowa, there's not a requirement that a radon test is done, however in most private
home sales there is a radon test, so they felt that was an issue that they needed to pick up in the in the
rental inspection. Laverman noted that COVID slowed them down a little bit as they didn't want any
additional inspections going on in the property but by January 2024, they should have all the properties
inspected and mitigated.
Dennis asked who pays for the radon testing. Laverman replied the landlord is responsible for the testing
and the radon test itself is $125 - $150 depending on the company and if they're doing multiple units.
Mitigation is then probably $1000 - $1500, depending on the situation.
Reedus asked if there are interval inspections done. Laverman said interval inspections are done every
eight years if there are no bedrooms in the basement, and every four years with bedrooms in the
basement.
Krotz asked if the department monitors the City to see where there might be neighborhoods where there's
radon issues or do individuals call report a possible problem. Laverman stated they could have
properties side by side and there's no correlation between radon levels. It all deals with construction and
cracks in the slab of the foundation or the floor in the basement, so there's multiple factors that don't really
pinpoint certain areas that might be high in radon. He did acknowledge they have had some extremely
high ones.
Vogel asked how many of the inspections have resulted in necessary mitigation. Laverman stated
approximately 15-20%.
Laverman stated other than radon, there's nothing on their agenda that they're looking to change in the
housing code, just maintaining status quo right now. He noted there's always issues with mobile home
parks and mobile homes, a lot of times the housing code doesn't come into play because people own
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 3 of 7
their mobile homes and they're only doing systematic inspections on rental properties, and the fact that
they are renting the lot doesn't give the authority to do an inspection on a mobile home. Additionally,
there's a lot of creative ways people have found to make sure the City is not involved in any of those
transactions such as a lot of properties being sold on contract, especially in mobile home parks.
Vogel asked about Airbnb's and have they seen any major issues in Iowa City yet. Laverman stated
because the State came in over top of all cities and said anywhere that they allow residential property
they have to allow short term stays and they saw an uptick in Airbnb. The State also said that cities
cannot charge for their inspection and can't put any additional restrictions on them. They cannot require
them to be rental permitted but their policy is they will insist on doing an inspection that they don't charge
for but do feel it's in the community's best interest that those properties have had someone look at them
to say they're in compliance with the housing code. He did note they are seeing pockets where someone
comes in and buys up multiple units on a street and it's created some issues but as they become more
proficient in managing them it's become less of an issue. He did note by buying these places and turning
them into Airbnb's it is taking a few affordable housing units off the market.
Vogel asked about parking requirements and if the rental permit processes is requiring enough parking.
Laverman stated because the State said the City cannot put any additional restrictions on Airbnb, they've
had some parking pressure and some parking issues, especially with the short-term occupant as their
consideration for the neighbors might be a little less, especially if they're in for a game weekend or just a
good time downtown, so they may not be as friendly as a longer-term tenant in the neighborhood. The
owner could get issued a disorderly house fine, but there's no ramification to that because it doesn't
require a rental permit.
Dennis asked regarding lead-based paint, if they see a house that was built before 1978, and there's
young children living there, and they see that there's some flaking paint, how long does the owner have to
remedy that. Laverman said their issue is they see that typically on an inspection for housing assistance,
and therefore will not pay for that assistance until that is remediated.
Dennis asked if there's a condo building that has eight units, and one of those is a rental, do all of the
units in that building need to be inspected. Laverman stated they do license the structure, so if there's
multiple units, even if some of them are owner -occupied, they all need to be inspected. There is a
provision where one can self -certify as an owner, to verify that smoke alarms are in place and that they
have a fire extinguisher.
Dennis asked if they keep track if a tenant is complaining, or a neighbor's complaining. Laverman said
not on a systematic basis, but they do track the complaints as they go into the software program, so they
can pick up on patterns.
Vogel noted years ago the City did a really deep study on complaints, does he know how many of those
were coming from rental properties and many of those were coming from owners. He asked if they still
keeping track of that data. Laverman admitted they really haven't gone back to that, but they did also do
a deep dive into where complaints were coming from based on census tract and it was scattered
throughout the City.
Laverman stated the City uses an app, IC Gov Express, and that's probably the best way to complain
because it guarantees it gets to the right place quicker than as opposed to calling it in where it might sit
for a little while. Additionally, they do take complaints on owner -occupied units as well, they still have to
be in compliance with the housing code. The City just doesn't have as much authority to do an inspection
of the property but if they see something from the street, they can address it.
Laverman noted they have a staff of 10, with five inspectors that do systematic rental inspections and two
inspectors, not full time, that do nuisance complaints, they have a scheduler and two individuals that
handle housing rehab.
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 4 of 7
Krotz asked if an inspection for a Housing Choice Voucher rental is the same as other rental inspections.
Laverman confirmed it was. He noted there are some changes coming, but likely will stay pretty much the
same inspection.
Patel asked what data from noise nuisances or the rentals is publicly available. Laverman stated all of
it is available, it can come in various formats. They've plotted it over time and done reports and tracked
complaints from rentals versus owner -occupied.
Vogel asked how many rental permits are pulled a year on average. Laverman said mostly Iowa City
deals with the same problems over and over, behavior problems with certain properties and they're
probably too lenient on that. They typically go the citation route and work to get the property back in
compliance rather than revoke a permit.
Vogel noted he put his name up originally for this commission because one of the descriptions of this
commission was to work with housing inspection to determine and create policies and he wanted to be
able to have that opportunity. He appreciated Laverman taking the time to come give them an update.
Vogel noted he would love to have this be a yearly presentation realizing how important housing
inspection is to affordable housing, finding that fine line of what makes people safer, but then also doesn't
raise the cost of doing business so much that there is no longer affordable housing.
Laverman stated another component he would like to touch on is the unhoused community and they are
starting to see code enforcement and some of the other stuff that they do make a difference. They work
closely with Shelter House and Street Outreach to identify camps and make sure that they've had
communication with Shelter House to try and get them into appropriate housing. He noted they feel that
there's about 55 community members that are street homeless right now so as they work with code
enforcement and receive calls from property owners about encampments along the river they're trying to
approach it from a holistic standpoint and work with them to make sure that they're getting the services,
they need to get them into supportive housing.
Dennis stated they are fortunate in Iowa City to have the Housing Inspection department because there's
smaller communities around the state that have no sort of rental housing inspectors at all and people are
living in substandard and even dangerous situations.
Reedus appreciates the department and the services Iowa City provide to, and in cooperation with, the
nonprofit sector and the facilities that are housing, but is interested in the encampment numbers. Do they
keep statistics on how that's growing or maybe in the future they could have Shelter House or other
organizations talk about the gap between all the housing services and the people who are still without
housing.
UNSUCCESSFUL AND DELAYED PROJECTS UPDATES:
Beining stated the City's unsuccessful delayed projects policy requires CDBG recipients to expend a
minimum of 50% of funds awarded by March 15. Shelter House is here to provide HCDC with a brief
update on the project that happened to miss that checkpoint.
Crissv Canaanelli gave an update on the FY22 Shelter House HVAC ($225,000) project. She stated the
original budget for this project was proposed at $625,000, which dates back to December 2020. The
actual project when it came in with bids, and was awarded, was $667,865. She stated they have three
funding sources for the project, the City of Iowa City, CDBG funds at $225,000, the Iowa Finance
Authority COVID response emergency solution grant dollars at $242,865, and the Housing Trust Fund of
Johnson County with $200,000. With respect to the CDBG funds, they've expended at this time $185,098
or 82% of the funds and have remaining $39,902 or 18% of the funds. Renovation began last this past
spring and the project is 80% complete and is expected to be 100% complete in September. Canganelli
stated the delay in the final completion is due to a supply chain issue, there are two components that
have to do with the fresh air exchange for the overall system that will not be available until mid-August.
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 5 of 7
The good news is that the system is fully operational, even without those components so they now have
consistent hat water that supplies the entire facility and a fully operational HVAC system online.
Thul noted typically when staff bring projects like this to the Commission staff usually makes a
recommendation on whether to recapture or not. In this situation they have not recommended recapture.
Beining agreed noted they have proven some very strong progress points and that it would not make
sense to recapture.
HOME -ARP ALLOCATION PLAN AMENDMENT:
Kubly noted they are amending the HOME -ARP Allocation Plan which is actually making an amendment
to the FY21 Annual Action Plan. She noted the City received about $1.8 million in HOME -ARP funds
through the American Rescue Plan Act and in order to use those funds they have to submit this HOME -
ARP Allocation Plan to tell HUD how they're going to spend that money. Last fall staff worked with this
Commission to determine who will get that funding and the plan was approved by HUD. Subsequently,
the City got a new HUD rep and a new field office director. They took another look at the Plan and had
suggested some improvements or some areas that needed clarification to be in compliance with the new
program. Kubly noted the changes are largely administrative. They didn't revise any of the funding to the
agencies —the amendment is just the administrative detail from the Plan that needs to be revised in order
to be in compliance.
Some of the updates added are a narrative about how the projects meet the identified need in the
community. They clarified the preferences served, if there's any limitations to those preferences and how
agencies determine who is up for eligibility through their programs. HOME -ARP serves different
categories of qualifying populations, which would include people who are homeless, people at risk of
homelessness, victims of domestic violence and other groups. Kubly explained this is a little different from
other programs so they have to be more specific in the Plan about who they are prioritizing for funding -
essentially wordsmithing and making sure they're hitting all the points that HUD requires. They also had
to resolve a fair housing concern regarding a preference for youth experiencing homelessness for the
UAY project. HUD wanted the City to reach out to the Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Division of
HUD to confirm that the City is not violating fair housing by having that preference for youth. They do
have one more thing they're waiting on guidance from HUD for and its what kind of priority it is for the
program. They already know who they're serving, they just need to know how to set it up. Staff is
anticipating having that information this week.
Kubly confirmed again they are not going to change how they're spending the funds. They are just
revising the narrative of the Plan. This was a brand-new program, and the rules are very complicated.
The next steps are the public comment period that's required for the amendment, and then with this
Commission's blessing take this to City Council on August 15 and then resubmits to HUD.
Krotz noted some of these organizations were consulted for some input but no specific comments were
provided, is there a reason for that. Kubly stated they may have just been at the meeting and didn't have
any direct comments for staff. Reedus added that feedback can really depend on who an agency sends
as a representative to meetings.
Reedus motioned to recommend that City Council accept changes to the HOME -ARP Allocation
Plan and approve the substantial amendment to the City's FY21 Annual Action Plan. Seconded by
Krotz. A vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0
STAFF & COMMISSION UPDATES:
Reedus gave an update on the Aid to Agencies Subcommittee. They met three times and continue to
work forward, she has also met with the County to talk to them as well. Reedus is chairing a
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 6 of 7
subcommittee to review the process for providing funding to legacy and emerging agencies, there are
three commissioners on that subcommittee, four representatives with the Agency Impact Coalition, and
staff and United Way have also joined. She has had a couple of meetings with United Way and is pleased
with the progress so far. Perhaps on the September agenda this Commission can receive a presentation
to get some feedback.
Dennis asked if there would be minutes available from these meetings, Reedus will ask if anyone is
willing to take minutes at the meeting, but they are not required.
Reedus would also like an agenda item to discuss the issue that staff has a difficult time getting all the
commissioners to score and to do this timely and if this Commission is requiring a deadline of the
agencies to apply then the Commission should also be adhering to the deadline. It's worth discussing
what are the roadblocks to getting those scores in on time, what are some alternative ways to look at that,
etc. She noted in August they are going to meet with the Agency Impact Coalition to get feedback from
them if the agencies prefer the joint application funding process or if they'd like to separate and what are
some of the ways to make the funding process more manageable for all involved from the agency's
perspective. They also want to ask them regarding this Commission, should they shift the application
review process to an internal working group, not the entire commission working on the scoring process
and then the recommendations from the smaller group would come to the larger Commission and the
Commission would ultimately make the recommendations to Council. Another topic is thoughts on adding
and removing legacy agencies, and then finally suggestions that they would have for how they can
educate commissioners better on the individual agencies that are receiving funding. Anyone that has any
thoughts can email Reedus.
Thul gave staff updates. In the agenda packet was a letter from HUD about last year's CAPER, this came
much later than normal as they are getting ready to do the CAPER again. To remind everyone, at the end
of every year the City submits a closeout report to HUD called the CAPER. HCDC reviews and approves
the plan. Some highlights from the letter were that the City met its timeliness goal, which has been difficult
to do the last couple years. Many cities struggled to meet this deadline. They have also expended quite a
bit, almost all, of the CDBG-CV funding.
Also in the agenda packet was a memo from Stefanie Bowers about an Intercultural Development
opportunity. Other boards and commissions have participated in the past and the offer is open now to
HCDC. If anyone is interested, they can reach out to Stefanie directly by the deadline.
Lastly, there's no meeting planned for August. When they come back in September staff will share the
CAPER and will add the item Reedus mentioned.
ADJOURNMENT:
Dennis moved to adjourn, Patel seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0.
Housing and Community Development Commission
July 20, 2023
Page 7 of 7
Housing and Community
Development Commission
Attendance Record 2022-2023
Name
Terms Exp.
9115
10120
11117
1119
2116
3130
4120
5/18
7120
Beining, Kaleb
6130124
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
Dennis, Maryann
6/30125
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Haylett, Jennifer
6/30125
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
Krotz, Karol
6130124
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Reedus, Becci
6/30124
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Vogel, Kyle
6130126
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
Eckhardt, Michael
6/30/25
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
Patel, Kiran
6/30/26
—
—
—
O/E
X
X
X
X
Pierce, James
6/30/2026
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
• Resigned from Commission
Key.,
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Vacant
Item Number: 4.g.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Human Rights Commission: August 22
Attachments: Human Rights Commission: August 22
Approved Minutes
Human Rights Commission
August 22, 2023
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Jahnavi Pandya, Doug Kollasch, Kelsey Paul Shantz, Sylvia Ions, Suyun Channon.
Commissioners absent: Bijou Maliabo, Ahmed Ismail, Roger Lusala.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to City Council: No.
Meeting called to order: 5:32 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Paul Shantz read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of meeting minutes of June 27, 2023: Kollasch moved, and Paul Shantz seconded. Motion passed
5-0.
Sponsorship Request: The commission approved $250 to the Asian Pacific Islanders American Public Affair
(Iowa City Chapter) for Welcoming Week. Welcoming Week is a national event where organizations and
communities bring together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the
importance of welcoming and inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity. Motion by Kollasch,
seconded by Pries. Motion passed 5-0.
Request to change the name of the Native American Land Acknowledgement to the First Nations Land
Acknowledgement: Pries will send other commissioners more information as it relates to this request.
Pries would like the group to compare the commissions Land Acknowledgement to that of the City
Council. Staff will send out the information on how to register for the upcoming seminar being presented
by Megan Red Shirt -Shaw.
Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant: Three final reports from the Center for Worker Justice of Eastern
Iowa, MDC Iowa, and IC Compassion were reviewed.
Grant informational sessions will be held on November 8 and 15. If commissioner's schedules don't work
for both dates, one option will be to hold only one session, record it and make it available to the
community.
November 8 — Kollasch and Paul Shantz (both tentative).
November 15—Dons.
Commissioners will continue to have conversations with their respective organization and arrange a time
to deliver the checks. Staff will assist in providing the checks. Ions will create a template that others can
use when having conversations with organizations.
AI-Iman Center (Maliabo), Community (Maliabo), Center for Worker Justice (Kollasch), Houses into Homes
(Pries), Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County (Ismail), Great Plains Action Society (Jons, Paul Shantz),
Wright House of Fashion (Lusala), Natural Talent Music (Pandya).
Commission Committees:
Breaking Bread —working on a time to meet and discuss work plans.
Reciprocal Relationships —working on revising their goals as a committee.
Building Bridges — working on recommitting to their initiatives.
Partnerships with Recreation Department:
a. Mental Health Celebration — October 14, RAL Social Hall (Maliabo, Pandya) — Has not met.
b. Indigenous Peoples Day — October 9, RAL Social Hall (Paul Shantz, Jons) — Planning an event in
collaboration with Great Plains Action Society for October 9 at Terry Trueblood Lodge.
c. All Around the World — November 18, RAL Social Hall (Lusala, Maliabo, Jons) — Has been some
email correspondence that have initiated conversations.
Announcements of commissioners: Jons has been appointed to serve on the board of directors for the
Iowa City Foreign Relations Council (ICFRC). The ICFRC is dedicated to promoting understanding of
international issues through education, connection, and engagement. Paul Shantz gave updates on
the ongoing book study "Bleeding Out' by Thomas Abt and reminded commissioners that September 21 is
the United Nations Association's International Day of Peace. Pandya spoke on a train the trainers program
she recently participated in entitled "Problem Management Plus". Pries attended a truth and reconciliation
commission (TRC) meeting and reported on the work of the TRC. Kollasch noted that it has been a very
busy summer and believes there is more that the HRC should be doing specifically as it relates to LGBTQ
folks.
Announcements of staff: The HRC celebrated its 601h anniversary on August 20. There is a program
planned for September 13 featuring Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for HUD Demetria McCain and a
commemorative video that will be released the first week of September.
Adjourned: 6:39 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://citychannel4.com/video.html?series=Local%2OGovernment.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
PERM
EXP.
1124
2128
3128
4/25
5/23
6127
8122
9126
10/24
11/28
Roger Lusala
2023
P
P
P
P
P
P
A
Bijou Maliabo
2023
p
p
P
P
P
P
Kelsey Paul Shantz
2023
p
P
A
P
P
P
p
JahnaviPandya
2024
P
P
A
p
p
p
p
Sylvia Jons
2024
P
A
p
p
p
p
P
Doug Kollasch
2024
p
P
P
P
p
p
P
Vacant
2025
-
-
-
-
-
I
-
Ahmed Ismail
2025
p
P
P
P
p
p
A
Mark Pries
2025
P
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.h.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Parks & Recreation Commission: August 9
Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: August 9
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED
MINUTES OF AUGUST 09, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER—MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Rachel McPherson, Alex Stanton, Aaron Broege, Connie Moore, Missie
Forbes, Alex Hachtman, Melissa Serenda, Brian Morelli
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Tyler Baird, Gabe Gotera
Others Present: Mitzi Read, Anne Stapleton, Jack Stapleton, Sue Protheroe, Carin Crain
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Serenda, seconded by Morelli, to apps-o%e the JUI%r 12. 2023, minutes. Motion
passed 8-0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Anne Stapleton welcomes Commissioner Stanton and thanks the Commission for the extended
hours at the RAL Pool. Stapleton says that she wants to add additional context regarding 2 points
made in her correspondence letter to the Commission about afternoon pool use and how the
admission numbers provided by staff do not equate to the actual number of people in the pool at
a time. Stapleton says that the barebones RAL schedule was instituted in January 2022 during the
COVID-19 pandemic after the pool had been closed for months and that the head of the World
Health Organization did not declare an end to COVID-19 emergency until May 5, 2023.
Stapleton says that when she learned that RAL Pool hours but not MPAC Pool hours had been
drastically reduced, which Recreation Superintendent Brad Barker had told her was due to the
low number of RAL pool users, she began to count bodies in the water. Stapleton refers to the
appendix of her correspondence letter explaining that it numerically describes 23 different days
in July when the pool total chart was 0 to 4 people, but the pool is actually closed or [Stapleton]
counted 21 people in the same time period. Stapleton says that inaccurate pool use counts would
not constitute an issue except when they're frequently cited as evidence of low pool use at RAL.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2623
Page 2 of 13
Stapleton explains that her second point has to do with afternoon hours at RAL pool. Stapleton
states that the unprecedented and limited access to RAL pool for the past 19 months is erasing an
important history of pool use, and that while she is delighted for the addition of the 9am-I lam
pool hours she will add a background about the use of RAL pool in prior years to explain why
she would love to see afternoon and evening hours returned to the community. Stapleton says
that the pool was typically active 5 days week in the afternoons and evenings as well as
weekends, shared by children and adults engaged in very different water activities from swim
lessons to deep water aquatics to lap swimming. Stapleton continues that cutting out these after-
work/school hours prevents RAL pool the natural flux & flow that other Iowa City playing
fields, gymnasiums, parks, and recreation facilities experience.
Carin Crain welcomes Commissioner Stanton and thanks the Commission for the increase in
RAL Pool hours.
PARKS AS STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE — Parks SUDt. Tvier Baird
Supt. Baird presents the attached Parks as Stormwater Infrastructure PowerPoint. Baird explains
how Stormwater Infrastructure is one of the major reasons that a park has open land without a
visibly noticeable use. There are 3 types of Stormwater Parks: River & Creek Floodways,
Retention/Detention Areas, and Wetlands. Rivers & Creek Floodways are floodable areas along
streams and in some instances include flood buyout lots. Examples would include the Normandy
Drive neighborhood, McPherson Park and the area surrounding Lower City Park that was heavily
impacted in the 2008 flood. Baird recalls that during the 2008 flood, the water had almost
reached the top of the tennis courts fence at City Park.
Commissioner Morelli asks if there are active flood -buyouts slots in the Normandy area. Dir.
Seydell Johnson responds that as long as owners are willing to sell, the city is available to talk.
Seydell Johnson adds that there is no longer any Federal money to conduct flood buyouts in the
Normandy area, but there are property purchases in the area as recent as a few months ago but on
a case-by-case basis.
Retention areas hold water for extended periods of time (i.e., ponds) while detention areas hold
water for shorter periods following storm events. An example of a retention area is the back
portion of Hunter's Run Park. An example of a detention area would include parts of Scott Park
& Rita's Ranch Dog Park, which are partially underwater after a storm. Baird adds that these can
create a lot of maintenance challenges to keep the parks looking nice over the years. Seydell
Johnson explains that when the parks are federal flood buyout property, then the department is
very limited on any structures that can be put in those spaces. Flat surfaces like parking, trails,
and some open-air shelters are allowed but any kind of restroom facility or similar shaped
structure could not be installed. Baird shows a picture example of both retention and detention
areas near Highway 218 & Rohret Rd.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 3 of 13
Commissioner Serenda asks if Retention and Detention areas are managed by parks or
neighborhood Homeowner Associations. Baird responds that both groups have a hand in
maintenance, that further in time they were more accepted as parks spaces, but now if the only
use of a space is strictly stormwater management, the HOA will take care of it. Seydell Johnson
adds that it is roughly a 50150 split between the Parks Department and the homeowner
associations. Serenda asks if there are rules or guidelines for this process. Seydell Johnson
replies that there are but that is one of the tougher things for both the City and the Department to
work with, as staff can guide the HOAs in the process, but that in some cases it is up to the
subdivision to spend the money for maintaining and hiring specialists.
Wetlands are areas that tend to have shallow water, often substantially covered with vegetation
growing in the shallow pools, and typically not directly connected to streams. An example would
be Whispering Meadows Wetland Park. Baird describes how when going back in aerial imagery
over the years, one can see that the area has always been a wetland, even when it was farmland.
Baird adds that none of the homes in the area of the park are unable to have basements and have
to be at street level or higher, telling that the background water level is a bit higher than other
areas in the city.
Commissioner Serenda asks if there is a functionality to the circle design in Whispering
Meadows Wetland Park. Baird responds that he is unsure if that design feature is for function or
aesthetic but explains that those wetlands are deeper than it appears which allows the plant and
animal life present to have more diversity.
Baird states that at least half of the city parks have stormwater infrastructure present in the
following number of parks, Rivers & Creeks: 27 Parks, Retention & Detention: 15 Parks,
Wetlands: 6 Parks. Baird touches back on the maintenance challenges that stem from the
stormwater infrastructure of which include, Dam Management, Mowing/Tree Removal, Access,
Limited Uses, & Vegetation Establishment. Baird explains how the infrastructure in most
instances ftmction best without trees meaning that staff will sometimes have to remove the trees
on recently obtained land. This can lead to a difficult public perception of "Why are Parks staff
removing the trees", when the decision for which trees roust be removed for functionality usually
comes from Public Works/Water Management engineers outside of the department. Seydell
Johnsons adds that this is a very common comment heard every year despite it being a required
maintenance to allow the stormwater infrastructure to work as planned.
Chairman Hachtman asks if there are plans to establish new retention/detention areas as new
parks are established. Baird responds that staff try to improve anything that is already present,
describing how some natural floodways near the City Park baseball diamonds were recently
converted into a prairie. Baird follows up that as parks are expanded west of Highway 218, there
are some possibilities for Wetlands or retention areas for the creek system. Seydell Johnson says
that the area would likely end up as a large park area that will act as a water retention area like
Terry Trueblood. Seydell Johnson adds that typically, staff no longer take park land if it is only a
retention area.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page A of 13
Commissioner Morelli asks if this presentation is strictly information of if there are any policy
changes that need to receive input. Baird responds that this is information provided at the request
of members of the Commission. Morelli comments that he was recently in City Park and
remembered how the city tried to protect the area along the river in what seemed like a losing
battle. Morelli thinks that it is great to see a return to a state of natural wildflowers.
REVIEW FUTURE LOWER CITY PARK SHELTER RENOVATION PLAN
—Parks Supt. Tyler Baird
Dir. Seydell Johnson announces that the Capital Improvement budget process will begin soon,
with one of the first projects being the Lower City Park Shelter/Restroom Renovation Draft
plan. Seydell Johnson says that there will be outreach to the neighborhood and that this
presentation is to get feedback from the Commission on if the direction is good before the budget
requests are entered in the coming weeks.
Supt. Baird continues the attached PowerPoint, displaying what shelters are being kept, which
are being added, and which are being removed. Baird explains that some of these shelters have
been around for 70 years and are really starting to show the wear and tear, with the only shelters
not being touched Shelters # 6, # 10, & the Riverside Shelter/Restroom. Baird says that Shelter 95
shows a lot of decay that is not visibly evident from the road. Baird states that if the project
moves forward as presented, there will be fewer overall shelters but a much higher overall shelter
quality.
Commissioner Morelli asks what kind of shelter usage is seen in Lower City Park. Baird
responds that in the heat of the summer & graduation season, all the shelters could be full on a
weekend due to grad parties. Baird clarifies that when he says full, it might not be reserved for
the entire allotment offered, as some patrons will reserve for an entire day while others reserve
for a partial day. Baird states that Shelter #6 is the most popular due to it being the largest shelter
and a relatively recent install, while use of Shelters #t 1, #12, & ##13 have lowered since there is
not a playground near those.
Commissioner Forbes asks if the enclosed shelter would be replaced with another enclosed
shelter. Seydell Johnson says that if City Park Pool is chosen to be replaced, then a bath house
with an indoor shelter attached could be available in Upper City Park, replacing the functionality.
Forbes says that there are a lot of gatherings, birthdays, and grad parties in that area and asks if it
is expected to be harder to book a shelter in Upper City Park as opposed to lower City Park.
Seydell Johnson replies that it is not expected to and that the indoor shelter could be reserved
year-round as opposed to seasonal like the current enclosed shelter.
Vice -Chairman Moore asks how often the enclosed shelter is reserved. Baird responds that there
has not been as many rentals in recent years but there has been a spike in vandalism to the
shelters in that area.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 5 of 13
Baird shows the standard design used for Large & Small shelters, explaining that these would be
much more uniform that what is planned to be replaced. Chairman Hachtman asks what the
capacity is for both shelters. Baird responds that the shelters will have a bit of variety in the exact
size/dimensions of the shelters installed, but that they would typically have 6 picnic tables,
totaling to an approx. capacity of 36. The larger shelters could be in the range of 50 people
without being crowded.
Commissioner Broege asks if Shelter #9 is being removed and not replaced due to the
Stormwater infrastructure. Baird confirms that and adds that it is also due to the shelter not
meeting ADA guidelines, being difficult for patrons to reach the shelter.
Commissioner Morelli asks if any shelters have been removed yet and what the net change of
shelters would be. Baird responds that no shelters have been removed and says that he will go
over the net change later in the presentation.
Commissioner Serenda asks what the time frame is for the project. Baird and Seydell Johnson
reply that the project is expected to take place 2026 but that it is not set in stone.
Baird describes the changes to the shelters as,
• The "Red Brick" restroom would be renovated to include 4 single stalls.
• The "Gray Brick" restroom & nearby shed would be removed due to its proximity to its
troublesome roof and proximity to the river.
• Keep Shelters #6, #10, & Riverside Shelter/Restroom
• Consolidate Shelters #12 & #13 into a large shelter.
• Consolidate Shelters 47 & #8 into a small shelter.
• Remove Shelter #9.
• Replace Shelter #5 with a small shelter.
• Replace Shelter #1 I with a small shelter.
Baird states that there would be a net total of -3 shelters, but that what remains would have a
newer high quality, refreshing the shelter. Baird explains that these shelters at some point will
have to come down, and that it is not a question of what can be saved, as there is rot and decay
down to the foundation. Baird asks for questions, clarifying that nothing presented is set in
stone and that staff are more so trying to get a handle on the budget requests for the project.
Commissioner Morelli says that he is worried about the reduced number of shelters and how
that will limit access. Seydell Johnson says that staff could look into the rental numbers and
their use on record.
Commissioner Serenda echoes concern on the number of shelters and how the demand for
shelters will be negatively impacted.
Commissioner McPherson says that the amenities at the shelter in James Alan McPherson Park
are great and make it commonly reserved. McPherson asks if amenities such as electricity will
be available at all the new shelters. Baird responds that ideally all the shelters in Lower City
Park will have electricity added.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 6 of 13
Commissioner Broege says he has noticed that a lot of the shelters have grills attached and asks
if any grills removed during construction would be returned? Tyler confirms this, saying that the
grills are a lot cheaper to install than the larger shelter infrastructure.
Commissioner Morelli asks if there has been any consideration for fire pits around the shelters.
Seydell Johnson says that this is always an opportunity offered to the neighborhood for a shelter
renovation, citing Cardigan Park and Calder Park. Seydell Johnson adds that where installed,
the fire pits have been very successful; but that most neighbors are still skittish/weary of the
idea.
Seydell Johnsons asks if it is an accurate summary that the Commission would rather see more
than less shelters but are okay with consolidating some shelters if it determined that it is
necessary. Vice-Chainnan Moore says that she is fine with consolidating the shelters, as these
things need to be updated and can all use more accessibility. Moore cites the beautiful shelter at
McPherson Park as what could be possible. Chairman Hachtman says that he approves of the
plan but would want to ensure that there is a variety in size/price of the shelters offered and a
proximity to the restrooms. Baird replies that the Red Brick Bathroom should be within walking
distance of any of the new shelters and can be used year-round. Commissioner Broege wants to
make sure the shelters are used/rented after the renovations. Broege is welcoming for any
increased accessibility that allows more patrons to use the shelters.
Seydell Johnson takes the opportunity to answer a frequently asked question, "What has
happened to all of the picnic tables in City Park". Seydell Johnson says that post-COVID, there
was an increase of seasonal downtown use of those picnic tables which were on -loan to the
downtown district, which has caused a lesser supply for the larger park system. Seydell Johnson
explains that because the picnic tables have been loaned every year, staff have put in a proposal
for the next budget that the picnic tables need to be replaced for either the Parks or the
downtown district. Commissioner McPherson asks who painted the picnic tables. Seydell
Johnson replies that they were commissioned by the downtown district.
SCHEDULE OCTOBER COMMISSION MEETING — Dir. Juli Sevdell Johnson
Director Seydell Johnson explains that staff will be attending the National Recreation and Park
Association Conference and will not be available for the October l I, 2023, Parks and Recreation
Commission meeting. Seydell Johnson asks the Commission if their preference is to reschedule
the meeting for the week before (Oct. 4) or the week after (Oct. 18). Commissioners either
learned towards Oct. 4 or were indifferent towards either week, leading Seydell Johnson into
deciding that the meeting would be rescheduled for Oct. 4. Seydell Johnson makes the
clarification that if there is a lack of agenda items, the meeting would instead be canceled.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 7 of 13
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Director of Parks & Recreation — Juli Seydell Johnson
City Park Pool: Dir, Seydell Johnson says that the consultants for the City Park Pool review have
been in and out of town over the last 2 months. The consultants are waiting on the test results of
the cement core samples and have been asking the department lots of questions about when
equipment was replaced. Seydell Johnson states that once the report & recommendation are
complete, they will go directly to City Council on Tuesday, September 5. Seydell Johnson
explains that the consultant team report would include the following,
• What has been found in the current conditions of the pool.
• Options for moving forward (Repair vs Replace) with cost estimates and expected
lifespan -gain included.
• The consultant's recommendation for moving forward based on 9 points/goals of review.
(Accessibility, Welcoming, Shade Access, etc.)
Seydell Johnsons says that if the pool chosen to be replaced, at this point a design is not known
regarding layout or amenities. Seydell Johnson adds that City Council has agreed for any
potential redesigns to stay within the fence line of the original pool. Seydell Johnson says that if
City Council decides to repair the pool, then there will be no more public comment/input after
that, the project will return to a staff level with the consultations to work out the needed
construction documents. Seydell Johnson says that if the City Council decides to replace the
pool, a full public comment process will begin, starting off with a big general meeting. Seydell
Johnsons explain that this meeting will be large gathering where anyone is welcome to come but
that specific details/dates have not yet been established. Seydell Johnsons says that recreation
staff would like to try to couple the meeting with the big Halloween event at the end of October,
or the indoor holiday market. This would capture a crowd of families and general users to
capture input from two groups at once. After this, focus groups would begin. Seydell Johnson
explains that the focus groups will be open to everyone to apply for via online form and asks the
Commission to spread the word to those interested. Once signed up, their information will be
added to a database and then sorted into groups based on attributes. As an example, if there is a
group that deals with disabilities, the consultants would like everyone in that group to either have
a disability or be a caregiver for soneone with a disability. These attributes Wold be indicated
through check boxes on the online form. The consultants will choose these groups randomly
within the criteria of each focus groups trying to match the demographics of the overall City.
Seydell Johnson clarifies that the focus groups participants would be assigned a particular
number to remain anonymous and confidential during the study. Seydell Johnson says that there
are a handful of groups that won't have random selection. Those groups being the Parks and
Recreation Commission and a childcare group. Targeted invites will be sent out regarding the
childcare group to ensure a mix of small childcare and also the larger before -&-after school
programs. All the data from the public meetings and the focus groups would be taken by the
consultant, who would determine three scenarios for what the pool cold look like based on
those criteria, two of which world be within the 10 -million -dollar budget and the last world be
up designed around a 15 -million -dollar budget. Seydell Johnson says that if the decision is made
to replace the pool, then there will be a statistically -valid -survey conducted based on the 3 design
options, after which an open -survey will be released. The results from both surveys will come
back to another public meeting, likely with the Parks and Recreation Commission and/or the City
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 8 of 13
Council, at which point a final answer will be derived for how City Park Pool will design.
Replace -dependent, the pool would close sometime around end of Summer 2024, remain closed
through 2025, and reopen Summer of 2026. Repair -dependent, Seydell Johnson cannot give a
timeframe as that would depend on the scope of the repairs being done.
Commissioner Morelli asks, if repair is chosen, will the pool -house renovations and meeting
room addition still be a part of that. Seydell Johnson replies that she does not have an exact
answer for that, explaining that the choice is being posed as one or the other but that there is
always gray in-between. The council will be proposed with a YesfNo prompt, but council
members are welcome to pick anything in between in potential combination.
Commissioner McPherson asks if senior citizens are being counted as one of the focus groups.
Dir. Seydell Johnson responds that that is a demographic called "Older Adults" but that focus
groups are not set in stone at the current time. Seydell Johnsons further explains that the
consultant is waiting until the September 5 decision before starting on public outreach.
McPherson asks about when City Council decided that the design would stay within the original
fence line. Seydell explains that was derived from the input heard for the Recreation Program
and Facility Master Plan, which made it clear that the atmosphere of the big tree line was
integral.
Commissioner Forbes asks if this process is a duplication of what Berry Dunn had conducted for
the Facilities Masterplan or if it is strictly regarding City Park Pool. Dir. Seydell Johnson
confirms that the Berry Dunn was regarding the delivery of recreation division programming and
facilities, of which included two direct questions about City Park Pool. Seydell Johnson adds that
the Berry Dunn statistically -valid -survey showed 71% of residents wanted to see a new
configuration of the pool which led down the current path. Seydell Johnson clarifies that the
focus groups and new survey would pertain specifically to City Park Pool as opposed to general
recreation programming & facilities_
Commissioner McPherson asks what the big Halloween event is. Dir. Seydell Johnson says that
the event is set for Friday, October 27 and is the big annual event generally held in the RAL Rec
Center for families free -of -charge. This event usually sees several hundred attendees coming
through the door, giving a great opportunity to get their input on the pool at the same time, in
some shape or form. Seydell Johnson refers to the 2016 Parks Masterplan where the public input
meeting was coupled to the holiday market that year. Commissioner McPherson asks about the
afterschool childcare focus groups when the pool season is when school is not in session. Seydell
Johnsons explains that there are many before and after school care programs that operate over
the summer, which could be more accurately called a summer camp program. In short, any
school age care group that comes in a bus and shows up at the pool wanting to swim together.
Vice -Chairman Moore is glad to hear that there will be a focus groups for people with
disabilities, as she has heard a parent say that they can't take their kid to the current City Park
Pool because of the accessibility issues. Moore adds that she has heard multiple parents say that
they must drive all the way to Coralville because the pool entrance is more accessible. Moore
says that people with disabilities were marginalized and not considered when the pool was
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 9 of 13
originally planned and is glad to see a pool that all people can use not based on their abilities but
based on the desire to partake.
Events: Seydell Johnson explains that summer events are still going on before listing the events
for that week.
• Tuesday, Aug 08: Teen Pool Party at City Park Pool
• Wednesday, Aug 09: Dog Days of Summer event happening at Rita's Ranch Dog Park.
• Wednesday, Aug 09: Back -to -School swim event at City Park Pool.
• Thursday, Aug 10: Park in the Park at Chadek Green Park, showing off the gardens and
the new playground.
Seydell Johnson says that there have been over 50 free events through the system, praising the
Recreation Division staff.
FallfWinter Programs: Seydell Johnson announces that a day prior, registration had begun for the
Fall & Winter programming. Seydell Johnson details some new additions to the programs
offered.
• Hispanic Heritage Event
• Indigenous People's Day
• All Across the World, where visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the global
fashion, foods, customs, and history.
• Outdoor Rec Fest, on October 8 at City Park, will capitalize on teaching kids and their
family outdoor recreation skills. Visitors will have the opportunity to go inside the
historic cabins.
Parks & Forestry Superintendent — Tvler Baird
Forestry: Supt. Tyler Baird states that Forestry has had an uptick in after-hours call -ins, with 3
call -ins in the last 8 days. Baird adds that during the call -ins staff did not see much storm
damage, but mostly random tree problems. Baird says that Forestry staff have gotten a
smaller/narrower bucket truck, operating on a Dodge Ram 5500 chassis, allowing more
maneuverability than the other larger equipment while maintaining a similar reach capacity.
Baird explains that this allows the Forestry team to split into 2 separate crews as opposed to
staying as a single unit, allowing for more efficient work. Baird says that the division is applying
for grant in the fall through the DNR Community Forest grant program, which would go towards
a tree planting at Hunters Run Park. The tree planting would include 47 trees in the park and the
nearby right-aways.
Park Projects: Baird announces that the playground equipment for Happy Hollow will arrive this
week. Staff would still have to wait for the contractor to complete work in the park before staff
can install the play equipment. Baird says that the contractor has a deadline of this Fall. Baird
announces that the Restroom/Shelter renovation at North Hickory Hill is expected to begin the
following week, with the installation expected to be completed this Fall.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 10 of 13
CHAIRS REPORT:
None
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Vice -Chairman Moore acknowledges the number of cool things/events happening in the
department. Moore says that she has received concerns from community members that she will
be relaying to the Commission.
Moore describes a small vendor at the Farmers' Market wondering about the necessity of
liability insurance which can amount to a quarter of the vendor's profit when they only
attend the market 5-6 weeks of the season. Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that last year,
the Farmers' Market began to require vendors to have liability insurance, but that the
Iowa City Farmers' Market was one of the last markets in Iowa to require vendors to
carry insurance. Seydell Johnson adds that the requirement was largely pushed by the
City's Risk Management department and the City Attorney, which does not give much
leeway in the matter.
Moore says that the book statues in the Ped -Mall playground are dirty and act as a
"sponge" for dirt and filth. Moore asks if the book statues can be cleaned or resurfaced.
Seydell Johnson says that this can be looked at by staff and acknowledges that the
department are in contact with the contractor regarding the playground surfacing.
Moore asks how many outdoor basketball courts there are in the city and if there is a need
for more in areas that teens congregate, giving a physical outlet. Seydell Johnson lists the
outdoor courts at Wetherby Court, Court Hill Park, Oak Grove Park, College Green Park,
North Market Square Park, Happy Hollow Park, and James Alan McPherson Park. Supt.
Baird adds that City Park will soon have a new basketball and tennis court. Seydell
Johnson announces that she will be meeting with Tony Branch of United Action for
Youth (UAY), and a local group of kids to discuss the ideas and wants of the younger
demographic. Seydell Johnson explains that the double court installed at Wetherby Park
costed approximately $200,000.
Moore refers to the July Commission Meeting in which there was discussion on the size
differential between the pools and the numbers and wonders if staff are counting just the
swimming of laps or looking at other methods as well. Moore says that at Mercer Park
the ends of the pool on either side of the bulkhead are not generally used for laps
making the actual number of lap lanes similar if not less than RAL Pool, making the
attendance numbers overall comparable. Seydell Johnson says that it is not just a raw
number of people inside of the pool but depends on the types of areas in the pool and
how people are using them. Seydell Johnson says that in a time frame if there is a large
increase of people it is specific to an area such as the diving well and leaving plenty of
room left in the lap lanes. Seydell Johnsons adds that since it is being looked at from the
perspectives of both the raw numbers and pool use for both facilities, it can be hard to
land on a specific target number.
Commissioner Forbes was going to comment on the Ped Mall playground flooring but was glad
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 11 of 13
to hear Seydell Johnson address it. Forbes says that the Chadek Green play equipment looks
awesome and asks if there are any future plans for a parking lot in the area. Seydell Johnson
responds that there is not anything in the plan except for the accessible spots into the gardens.
Seydell Johnson adds that this is in part because the neighborhood did not want a shelter due to
parking concerns. Seydell Johnson finished by saying that the park like many others in the City
are walk-in parks. Forbes refers to the summer recreation events and asks if there has been a lot
of participation seen in the activities. Seydell Johnson says that until the night prior at Terry
Trueblood Recreation Area, all the events that summer have seen good attendance. Seydell
Johnson says that staff are monitoring the traditional programs to determine what can be
improved, specifically that the Summer Playground drop-in program might see some changes to
increase numbers. Seydell Johnson states that both the Party in the Park and the Farmers'
Market are in the best state that they have been in a long time.
Commissioner Forbes talks about a policy at City Park Pool regarding moving the deck chairs.
Forbes refers to an email exchange with Program Supervisor, Kate Connell and says that she
understands the explanation but that it doesn't feel like an inclusive or welcoming policy to
have in her hometown park. Forbes describes the policy as she understands is that there are
certain chairs that staff would want to stay in the shallower areas and the wading pool for
caregivers. Forbes explains that there are different groups with different needs and that for
chairs to be limited in how it can be moved/used, it can be frustrating. Especially when the
policy is a handwritten sign, giving not much more of an impression than a whim. Forbes says
that if someone has a physical disability and desires a particular chair, they should not have to
disclose their information to a stranger, which can create an unwelcoming atmosphere. Seydell
Johnsons responds that she does not have a full answer for this prompt but that she can
investigate it and follow up.
Commissioner Broege, referring to RABRAI, says that many bikers enjoyed the bike repair
stations and asks if there are any plans for more in certain areas like Sycamore, Scott, or City
Park. Baird responds that the repair stations are added in as the budget allows and that there is
one in the REAP grant application for the Ashton House, as it is a very popular bike trail. Seydell
Johnson explains that they cost roughly $5,000 and come out of the same budget category as
grills, bike racks, and picnic tables. Baird adds that these stations are slightly more expensive
that others on the market, but that cheapertlow-quality stations have little use -return before
breaking down. Broege says that there is a lot of activity in Scott Park between Rita's Ranch, the
playground, and the Ultimate Frisbee organization, but only port -a -potties that are often not in
great shape. Broege asks if a permanent bathroom is possible or if this would be impacted by the
stormwater management in the park. Baird responds that he unaware of how that installation
would affect the stormwater management, but that he can say that there is nothing in the current
capitol plan. Seydell Johnson says that this request has been heard before and can be looked at,
but that it likely wouldn't be able to be budgeted for 5-6 years.
Commissioner Morelli says he has notice that some water fountains in the parks have attached
dog bowls but not on all water fountains. Morelli wonders if there is any rhyme or reason for
determining what water fountains will have dog bowls. Seydell Johnson says that ideally, all
water fountains in the parks would include a dog bowl and water bottle station, but that staff are
restrained by supply & budget issues.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 12 of 13
Commissioner McPherson asks about the status of the Happy Hollow Park construction project.
Seydell Johnson says that the project bid went out last spring and a contractor has been found
and contracted over the summer, to skin the fields and replace the playground, adding some new
accessibility paths. Seydell Johnson and Baird say that it is still coming soon and should be
completed this fall. McPherson asks if there is any news regarding the budget for trees in
Oakland Cemetery, especially since so many trees have been lost. Baird confirms that there is
work being done with the Heritage Tree Fund from years past, working with the original
committee onsite, including foresters for the university and for the district. Baird says that trees
could hopefully be seen in the coming spring.
Commissioner Serenda reiterates her thoughts from last month, saying that the Pollinator Park
Prowl has been incredibly fun and has taken her to new areas across the City.
Commissioner Stanton says that he found a dead link on the Parks and Recreation department
website, for the 2017 Gather Here Parks Master Plan. Administrative Coordinator Gotera says
that is likely from the recent website overhaul and asks for Stanton to forward the location of the
dead link. Commissioner Forbes mentions that the pool schedules are outdated in a particular
location on the website.
Chairman Hachtman expresses his gratitude towards the department staff, having taken part in
some of the summer events & activities. Hachtman asks about the results of the July Sports
Equipment Drive. Seydell Johnson says that staff would likely try the event again but did not get
the response desired, receiving more random items like cross-country skis than sports balls.
Seydell Johnson explains that staff will have to be more specific in promotion on what items they
are looking for. Seydell Johnsons states that any items donated will be distributed on August 17
at the Wetherby Park Party in the Park. Hachtman says that he has heard requests for more
pickleball courts. Seydell Johnson explains that in 2 weeks, the bids will come in for the
pickleball/tennis court project for Mercer and City Park, which could still happen this fall or
early spring depending on how the bids come in. Seydell Johnson says that she knows that the
Downtown District is looking to installing a temporary pickleball court in the Black Hawk
minipark downtown, which while not permanent would still provide more space. Seydell
Johnsons adds that the Recreation Facilities are open for open pickleball play most days of the
week. Baird says that new courts will have an extra court painted at Mercer Park and an extra 3
courts painted at City Park. Seydell Johnson clarifies that the exact number will still depend on
how the bids come but should hopefully be installed over the fall.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chairman Hachtman calls the meeting to adjourn at 6:34 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 12, 2023
Page 13 of 13
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
N
N
N
N
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
O
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
TERM
EXPIRES
a
N
c
!r
a
o
N
o
r
o
Aaron
12/31/24
*
*
*
*
*
X
NM
X
X
Broe e
Missie
12/31/25
X
X
X
NM
X
O/E
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
Forbes
Alex
12/31/24
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
Hachtman
I
Rachel
12/31/26
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
McPherson
Doloris
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
Mixon
Connie
12/31/25
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
Moore
Brian
12/31/25
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
Morelli
Melissa
12/31/23
X
X
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
Serenda
Alex
12/31/23
*
*
*
*
*
X
Stanton
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.i.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
October 3, 2023
Senior Center Commission: August 17
Attachments: Senior Center Commission: August 17
Approved Minutes
August 17, 2023
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
August 17, 2023
Room 308, Iowa City Senior Center
Members Present: Lee McKnight, Warren Paris, Jay Gilchrist, Nancy Ostrognai
Members Absent: Susan Mellecker, Tasha Lard, Angela McConville
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, LaTasha DeLoach
Others Present: None
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Gilchrist at 4:00 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE JULY 20.2023. MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the July 20, 2023. Motion carried on a
vote of 4t0. Warren/McKnight
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
1
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
DeLoach reported the September/October program calendar will be out next
week. The Senior Center will have two interns and at least two work study
students this fall. The Elders of Color group has changed their name to the
Original Mature Grooves. They are working on a number of projects including a
Black History Gala on February 3rd, a legal topics series, and a tour of the
underground railroad locations in Iowa. The Senior Center will be partnering with
the Downtown District with the various promotions like Elf on a Shelf and
Where's Rusty. DeLoach is also working on a concept called Cafe 28, which will
partner with various downtown restaurants to cater a lunch once a month at the
Senior Center. Lunches would be available for a nominal fee and the idea would
be to have conversation starters at each table. The Senior Center Ambassadors
Approved Minutes
August 17, 2023
volunteer program will be launching soon. The coffee and conversation program
will start again in September.
Jessi Simon resigned from the Development Specialist position. Candidates are
being interviewed.
DeLoach reported some new lights have been installed on the ground floor and
by the elevator on the first floor, improving visibility in these spaces. The
resistance training room wallpaper has been removed and the space has been
painted. DeLoach noted the bids for the exterior renovations will be occur soon,
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Gilchrist reported the International Day of the Older Person will have a speed
friend -shipping event.
Paris thought the idea of the Cafe 28 was a great way for people to meet and get
together.
Gilchrest asked about the feasibility study. DeLoach noted it had been completed
and that there were useful recommendations for how to move forward.
Commissioners discussed the policy updates
Motion: To approve the Low -Income Membership Program, Marketing,
Medical Emergency, Membership Program, and Non -Medical Emergency
Response and Prevention Policies. Motion carried on a vote of 410.
McKnight/ Ostrognai
DeLoach noted that the Senior Center has received a Quality -of -Life grant from
the county that needed to be applied for each year. Moving forward the Senior
Center has a written agreement with the County instead. Part of the requirement
for this is to give a presentation to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors
each year. McConville has worked on this in the past, but DeLoach asked if there
would be interest from other Commissioners to assist or attend that presentation.
Ostrognai noted she has missed seeing Senior Center members in the program
calendar. DeLoach reported that it is the hope that the Senior Center will have a
senior photo shoot with participants to make our own stock photos. She noted
that it is hard to get quality photos of participants, especially since COVID.
DeLoach let commissioners know that the local state issued identification office
(driver's license station) had been moved out to Coralville in a location that is not
on a bus line. Commissioners discussed talking with people in other groups they
belong to on making sure that information gets disseminated since ID's are now
a necessity in voting.
Approved Minutes
August 17, 2023
Future agenda items include an update on Cafe 28 and inviting the City's Climate
Coordinator to meet with the commission.
Meeting Adjourned.
Approved Minutes
August 17, 2023
Senior Center Commission Attendance Record
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member
9115(22
10(20122
11/17/22
12/15122
1(19/23
2(16/23
3/16/23
4/20/23
5118/23
6/15/23
7/20(23
8/17(23
Name
'rem Expires
Jeannie Beckman
12/31/22
X
0/E
NM
NM
—
—
--
--
—
—
--
—
Jay
12(31/25
--
—
—
--
NM
NM
O/E
NM
O/E
X
X
X
Gilchrist
Douglas
t2/31/24
O/E
0(E
—
—
—
—
—
--
—
_
Korty
Tasha
12/31/24
O/E
X
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
NM
X
O
X
O
Lard
Angela
12/31/24
X
X
NM
NM
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
McConville
Lee
12/31/24
--
—
—
—
—
--
X
NM
O/8
X
X
X
McKnight
Susan
12(31/23
--
—
-•
—
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
Mellecker
Nancy
5/18/23
--
—
-•
—
—
—
.-
—
X
OE
X
X
Ostrognai
Karen
12/31/23
O/E
X
—
—
_
—
—
—
--
--
--
—
Page
Warren
(2(31/25
--
—
--
—
NM
NM
0
NM
X
X
X
X
Paris
Paula
(2131/22
X
X
NM
NM
--
--
—
—
—
—
—
—
Vaughan
Linde
(2131,r'23
X
X
NM
--
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Vogel
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member