HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-06-27 Bd Comm minutes
MINUTES
IOWA CITY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
MAY 10, 2006
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL -IOWA CITY, CITY HALL
r=
FINAL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Carol Alexander, Karen Leigh, Michelle Shelangouski, Ned Wood, Michael
Wright.
STAFF PRESENT: Sarah Walz, Sarah Holecek
OTHERS PRESENT: Jason Hilsman, Dick Brown, Robert Crane, Sandra Rasles, Mary Lou Gay, Ed
Morgan, Mary Lee Dixon, Nestor Lobodiak
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Leigh called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM.
CONSIDERATION OF THE APRIL 13. 2006 MINUTES
MOTION: Shelangouski moved to approve the April 13, 2006 minutes as submitted. Wright
seconded the motion.
Motion passed 5:0.
SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS:
EXC06-00008: Discussion of an application submitted by Ace Auto Recyclers for
a special exception to permit a salvage yard for property located in the proposed Heavy Industrial (1-2)
zone east of South Riverside Drive.
Walz said that in 1974, at the request of the property owners at that time, the City annexed this property
as part of an approximately 45-acre annexation. The westerly 300 feet of the annexation area, including a
portion of the applicant's property was zoned light industrial (M-1) and the easterly 591 feet of the
annexation area was zone Heavy Industrial (M-2). She noted that this and other adjacent properties were
rezoned to 11 as part of a citywide rezoning in 1983.
Walz stated that at the time that this area was annexed, and before any salvage yard was allowed in this
area, the owners of what are now the Ace salvage yard and the adjacent salvage yard to the north
(Russell) entered into a Conditional Zoning Agreements (CZA) specifying conditions that would be
required to allow the operation of a salvage yard. She noted the intent and the requirements of the CZA
were to ensure that:
1. The salvage yard would be located at least 300 feet east of Old Highway 218 (Riverside Drive);
2. There would be a berm and landscaping to screen views of the property from the highway and the
Iowa River;
3. the auto recycling operation would consist of only temporary storage of automobiles awaiting
crushing and crushed automobiles and equipment related to the crushing operation; and
4. The area used for automobile salvage would not exceed 5 acres.
She stated that the CZA was recorded as a covenant running with the land so that it applied to the
owners who agreed to it as well as future owners. Neither the previous property owners nor the current
applicant has adhered to the conditions of the CZA. Walz said the salvage yards (Russell and Ace) were
expanded beyond the 5-acre areas agreed to by the City and the property owners, and the Ace site now
covers approximately 10 acres. She added that the berms and landscaping were not put in place or have
been removed. Walz said that Russell Salvage Yard is not part of this application and remains in violation
of the zoning agreements.
Walz said that in May 2005 the current operator, Ace Auto Recyclers, requested a rezoning of his
property from General Industrial (11) to Heavy Industrial (12) to allow expansion of the salvage yard. The
applicant wished to build new buildings for office and warehouse space. She noted that this request was
deferred indefinitely by the Planning and Zoning Commission in order to allow the applicant to address
the above zoning violations, including the location of the salvage operation within 300 feet of Old Highway
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 2
218, the absence of landscape screening and vegetation around the salvage operation, and a limit on the
size of the operation to 5 acres. Since the 2005 rezoning request, Walz said, the applicant has removed
the salvage materials from property located within 300 feet of the right-of-way of S, Riverside Drive,
Walz stated that as part of the rezoning request, the applicant has proposed a number of improvements
to the property including a plan for landscape screening and fencing that are intended to bring the
property into general compliance with the original conditional zoning restrictions on the property as well
as requirements of the current Zoning Code, She added that at its April 20 meeting the Planning and
Zoning Commission recommended a rezoning from 11 to 12 for the 11,36 acres now under consideration
for a special exception, subject to the installation of landscape and fence improvements as specified in
the site plan, She noted that the City Council will consider the rezoning to 12 at its May 23 meeting, Any
approval for this special exception is subject to Council's approval of the rezoning the property to i2,
Walz said that approximately one half of the proposed salvage yard property falls within the 1 DO-year
flood plain, and the presence of a blue line on the USGS topographic map for this property indicates a
stream corridor/drainage way on a small portion the north eastern corner of the property, She said the
drainage way, which feeds into Willow Creek, is subject to the Sensitive Areas Ordinance and an access
easement.
She said the applicant is now requesting a special exception to legitimize the existing salvage yard and to
allow for expansion of the salvage yard for the 11,36 acres, The applicant is also proposing to build an
office and parts warehouse on the adjacent property within the existing 11 zone, however, that portion of
the property is not part of the special exception under consideration,
The purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to promote the public health, safety and general welfare, to
conserve and protect the value of property throughout the city, and to encourage the most appropriate
use of land, It is the intent of the Ordinance to permit the full use and enjoyment of property in a manner
that does not intrude upon adjacent property, The Board may grant the requested special exception if the
requested action is found to be in accordance with the regulations found in Section 14-4B-4C-5 Special
Exception Review Requirements for Salvage Operations in the Heavy Industrial (12) zone and the
general standards for special exceptions as set forth in Section14-4B-3,
Specific Standards:
Walz said that the proposed use must be located at least 1,000 feet from any residentially zoned
property, The property zoned industrial on east side of Riverside Drive is at the edge of Iowa City
Corporate limits, The property located to the west of the road is zoned agricultural by the County,
In addition, she stated that salvage operations are required to completely enclose all storage and work
areas with a fence built to the S5 standard, and salvage materials may not be piled against the fence or
piled higher than the fence, She noted that the applicant has provided a site plan showing that the entire
salvage yard surrounded by an 8-foot high, solid wood fence on all four sides, The presence of a blue line
on the USGS topographic map for this property indicates a stream corridor/drainage way on a small
portion the north eastern corner of the property require a 15-foot buffer. Walz said that the site plan aiso
shows the required 15-foot firebreak on all sides of the property inside the fence, She said the applicant
has not addressed how the firebreak will be maintained,
Walz said the standards for salvage yards also require that all combustible waste be stored no closer
than 100 feet from any property line unless enclosed in a masonry building of not less than 4-hour, fire
resistive construction, The applicant has indicated that no combustible material of this type will be stored
on the property,
In considering the general standards required of all special exceptions, Walz said the specific proposed
exception will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort or general
welfare, She said that salvage yards are permitted in the 12 zone by special exception, In addition to the
8-foot high fence surrounding the salvage yard, the applicant's site plan proposes evergreen trees along
the west and southwest portions of the property, where the property is visible from South Riverside Drive,
The location of the salvage yard, set more than 300 feet east of S, Riverside Drive, along with the 8-foot
solid fence and iandscape screening will conceal the 9alvage operation and its outdoor storage from
public view and buffer neighboring properties from the noise and dust that are associated with this use,
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 3
Walz said that salvage yards pose an environmental risk due to the chemicals that remain on the cars
even after they have been drained of fuel and fluids. For this reason salvage yards containing more than
250 cars are required to obtain a storm water permit from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Walz stated that because a portion of the salvage site falls within the 100-year flood zone there are
potentially risks for water contamination. In Staffs view it is imperative that the applicant bring all DNR
permits up to date to account for the location and expansion of the salvage yard. In addition, the drainage
way, which feeds into Willow Creek, is subject to an access easement requiring that access to the
drainage way be unobstructed. Staff recommends that fence proposed by the applicant should be
constructed so as not to enclose the drainage way.
She added that because waste tires are a significant breeding habitat for mosquitoes that carry West Nile
and other serious viruses, open air storage of tires can pose a public health concern. The Iowa DNR
recommends that tires stored outdoors be covered with a tarp and limits the number of waste tires stored
indoors or outdoors to 500 before a permit is required. Walz said the applicant has indicated that on
average he stores 250 re-saleable ties and an additional 200 waste tires on the site and that waste tires
are picked up for recycling on a bi-weekly basis. In addition, it is illegal to bury or burn waste tires.
Restricting the number of number of waste tires stored on the site and manner in which tires are stored
will minimize the potential health issues.
The specific proposed exception will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property
in the immediate vicinity and will not substantially diminish or impair property values in the
neighborhood, Walz said the majority of the salvage yard will be set back more than the required 300
feet from Riverside Drive. In addition, she said that the proposed 8-foot high fencing surrounding the
salvage yard and evergreen tree screening along the west and southwest portions of the property, where
the property is visible from South Riverside Drive, will help to conceal the salvage operation and its
outdoor storage from public view and buffer neighboring properties from the noise and dust that are
associated with this use. Properties to the north and south are zoned General Industrial (11).To the east
property is public land, a former landfill, which is closed to the public due to environmental concerns.
Neighbors to the west include Bekins Moving and Warehouse Company, the Johnson County Fair
Grounds and agricultural land. In Staffs view the improvements proposed by the applicant for landscape
screening and fencing will mitigate the negative effects associated with the salvage yard operation.
Establishment of the specific proposed exception will not impede the normal and orderly
development and improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the zone in
which such property is located. Walz said the expansion of the salvage operation in keeping with the
proposed site plan will bring the property into compliance with the original conditional zoning restrictions
on the property as well as the requirements of the current Zoning Code. In Staffs view the applicant will
create a more attractive situation for future development on surrounding property by setting the salvage
yard back 300 feet from S. Riverside Drive and by providing the fence and screen improvements
proposed in the site plan.
Adequate utilities, access roads, drainage and/or necessary facilities have been or are being
provided. Walz noted the applicant will pave the entryway from Riverside Drive up to the gravel access
easement that runs parallel to the railroad in front of the property. This area of the city is not served by
City sewer or water, however due the remote location of the site and the limited intensity of the use, a
private system is acceptable.
Adequate measures have been or will be taken to provide ingress or egress designed so as to
minimize traffic congestion on public streets. The applicant will pave the entryway from Riverside
Drive up to the gravel access easement that runs parallel to the railroad in front of the property.
Except for the specific regulations and standards applicable to the exception being considered,
the specific proposed exception, in all other respects, conforms to the applicable regulations or
standards of the zone in which it is to be located. Walz said the 12 zone requires that all outdoor
storage areas located on a along a side or rear lot line that does not abut a public right-of-way must be
screened from view of the adjacent property to at least the S3 standard. She added that the code
specifies that "if a fence is built around the storage area, the required screening must be located between
the fence and the adjacent property." She said that this requires the applicant to install additional
landscape screening to the S3 standard along the south, east, and northern boundaries of the property.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 4
In addition, Walz said, the 1974 Conditional Zoning Agreement for the original salvage yard required
similar screening on the east side of the salvage yard-screening, screening which was never installed.
The properties abutting the site on the north, another salvage yard, and vacant land to the south are
zoned 11, to the east the property is former landfill. She said the future land use scenario in the South
Central District Plan shows this as public/private open space, but at this time the area is not open to the
public due to environmental concerns associated with the former landfill.
In Staffs view, the established vegetation and the general inaccessibility to the salvage yard on its north
and east boundary seem provide the same function as the required screening. However, neither Staff nor
the Board of Adjustment has the authority to alter this requirement. The applicant may apply for an
amendment to the Zoning Code, to waive the requirement for this additional the S3 screening along the
south, east, and northern boundaries of the property.
She said that the presence of a blue line on the USGS topographic map for this property indicates a
stream corridor/drainage way on a small portion the north eastern corner of the property. According to the
Sensitive Areas Ordinance, stream corridors require a 15-foot buffer from development.
The proposed use will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, as amended. Walz said the
South Central District Plan acknowledges conflicts in this area between industrial/commercial and
residential uses. A mobile home park is located approximately 1700 feet to the northeast of the site. The
long-term land use scenario for the area is to phase out residential uses within the flood zone. She added
that the District Plan recommends that industrial and commercial business be allowed to operate in a
reasonable manner within areas zoned for those uses, and specifies that "industrial zoning is most
suiiable for those properties with direct access to the railway and Riverside Drive.
Walz said the District Plan also recognizes Riverside Drive as an entranceway to Iowa City. Because of
its high visibility, the Plan encourages aesthetic improvements along this corridor and calls for special
efforts to provide effective screening along Riverside Drive where salvage yards are visible from the
public right-of-way. Expansion of existing salvage operations may be considered if effective screening of
the salvage yard is provided.
In staffs view a salvage yard is a service that may be necessary to serve the community. However
because of the negative effects on adjacent properties and the general character of an area, such
operations need to be strictly controlled. She said the existing salvage yard in this location has been
operating for a number of years in non-compliance with zoning requirements. The applicant wishes to
receive a building permit to construct an office building/parts warehouse and a tear-down building where
vehicles would be disassembled as part of the salvage operation. Walz stated that the building permit will
not be issued as long as the property is in non-compliance with the Zoning Code. The applicant has
agreed to a Conditional Zoning Agreement for the rezoning of 11.36 acres to 12, which allows
establishment of salvage yards by special exception. The special exception and CZA will allow the City
and applicant to work together to bring this property into compliance with the zoning code. If approved the
existing salvage operation will be allowed to expand form approximately 10 acres to 11.36 acres. She
said that prior to this expansion a solid wall at east 8 feet in height will be built around the entire salvage
operation. The wall will be supplemented with evergreens trees on the west and south side to provide
better long-term screening from S. Riverside Drive. She said the salvage yard will be moved at least 15
feet away from the stream corridor and compliance with DNR requirements will be demonstrated.
Staff recommends that EXC06-00008, an application for a special exception for property in the proposed
Heavy Industrial (12) zone east of South Riverside Drive to permit a salvage yard, be approved subject to
the following conditions:
1. City Council approval of the 12 zoning;
2. The applicant must apply for a building permit in order to establish the salvage use.
Prior to issuance of the building permit, the applicant must:
3. Install all landscape and screening improvements as specified in the approved site plan except for
those adjacent to the proposed building in the 11 zone. The spruce trees on the west and south side of the
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 5
fence shall be planted in a staggered pattem, 20 feet on center. They shall be a minimum of 2" in caliper
at the time of planting unless an aiternative is approved by the City Forester. The area designated by the
blue line stream must remain outside the fenced area of the site and a 15-foot buffer must be left between
the fence and the blue line drainage way. Prior to issuance of an occupancy permit for the new building,
all other required landscaping, as indicated in the site plan, must be installed;
4. Provide a maintenance plan for keeping the required 15-foot firebreak clear of trees and shrubs;
5. Bring all DNR permits related to the salvage and auto parts operation and
storm water permits up-to-date and have such permits filed with the City.
After establishing the salvage use, the continuation of the use is subject to the following conditions:
6. No salvage (cars or parts) may be stored outdoors on any portion of the applicant's property outside of
the fenced area;
7. Outdoor storage of tires (whole or partial) is limited to no more than 600 tires and all tires must be
covered by a tarp to prevent mosquito habitat. Tires may not be stored within 100 feet of a property line;
8. Vehicles must be crushed and removed from the site on a regular basis.
Alexander asked how a property with such a long history of noncompliance managed to function for so
many years. Walz said there were some enforcement actions taken, and the case went to court.
Alexander asked how will the conditions established if the motion is approved be monitored. Holecek said
that if not in compliance they could be cited with a municipal infraction, and the property needs to be
brought into compliance. She said that many actions are taken based on complains. Alexander said that
she infers that it will be unlikely to have the property in non-compliance again.
Wright asked what is the roughly distance between the east wall of the salvage yard and the river. Walz
said that she does not know the exact answer, but she walked the parameter of the site around the river
and is nearly impossible to see the salvage yard from the river. She added that area along the river is
closed to the public.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
Hilsman said they have been working with staff for a year. He added they cleaned the site and try to
make changes towards better. He said they work with the Police, Fire Department, and City Streets
Department. He said they run a good business and do not try to make anyone mad.
Wright asked when the last flood on the property was. Hilsmen said the last big flood was in 1993 but the
water did not make it to the property. He said the river is about 3/4 mile away from the saivage yard.
Shelangouski asked what is the plan for access to the 15 foot fire fighting access. Walz said the plan
needs to be reviewed and signed by the fire department. She added that the dashed line on the site plan
is the 15 foot firefighting access and should be continuous around the parameter of the property.
Shelangouski asked if there are two driveways on the property. Helsmen said there is currently one
driveway and two are proposed.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
Alexander said this will be an improvement to the current situation. Wood said there are problems with
the current situation of the property but good resolutions are proposed to improve the situation.
MOTION: Alexander moved that EXC06-00008, an application for a special exception for property
in the proposed Heavy Industrial (12) zone east of South Riverside Drive to permit a salvage yard,
be approved subject to the following conditions:
1. City Council approval ofthe 12 zoning;
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 6
2. The applicant must apply for a building permit in order to establish the salvage use.
Prior to issuance of the building permit, the applicant must:
3. Install all landscape and screening improvements as specified in the approved site plan except
for those adjacent to the proposed building in the 11 zone. The spruce trees on the west and south
side of the fence shall be planted in a staggered pattern 20 feet on center. They shall be a
minimum of 2" in caliper at time of planting unless an alternative is approved by the City Forester.
The area designated by the blue line stream must remain outside the fenced area of the site and a
fifteen foot buffer must be left between the fence and the blue line drainage way. Prior to issuance
of an occupancy permit for the new building, all other required landscaping, as indicated in the
site plan, must be installed;
4. Provide a maintenance plan for keeping the required 15-footfirebreak clear of trees and shrubs;
5. Bring all DNR permits related to the salvage and auto parts operation and storm water permits
up-to-date and have such permits filed with the City. After establishing the salvage use, the
continuation of the use is subject to the following conditions:
6. No salvage (cars or parts) may be stored outdoors on any portion of the applicant's property
outside of the fenced area;
7. Outdoor storage of tires (whole or partial) is limited to no more than 600 tires and all tires must
be covered by a tarp to prevent mosquito habitat. Tires may not be stored within 100 feet of a
property line;
8. Vehicles must be crushed and removed from the site on a regular basis. Wood seconded the
motion.
AMENDMENT: Leigh amended condition number 6 to read no salvage (including tires, cars or
parts) may be stored outdoors on any portion of the applicant's property outside of the fenced
area. Wood seconded the amendment.
Wright said that salvage yards are needed. He said that it appears to meet all specific standards. He said
the property is located at least 1,000 feet from any residentially zoned property and will be enclosed with
a fence. He added that it will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, comfort or
general welfare. He said there are certain hazards associated with salvage yards, but if all DNR permits
are approved and the tires will be properly stored and managed they will meet this general standard as
much as possible. He said that it will not be injurious to the properties in immediate vicinity. He said that
the property will not be particular visible from Riverside Drive. He added that all surrounding properties
are zoned general industrial, and that will mitigate any effect on other properties. He noted this will be an
improvement to the property. He said that adequate utilities are in place. He added that outdoor storage
requirement, landscape and screening seem to be met. He said this is consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan of the city. He said is a fairly reasonable use for the industrial zone. Wright said he will vote in favor
of the application.
Alexander said this will be an improvement for the property. She will vote in favor for the reasons already
stated.
Shelangouski will vote in favor for the reasons already stated.
Wood will vote in favor for the reasons already stated.
Leigh will vote in favor for the reasons already stated.
The amended motion passed 5:0
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 7
EXC06-00003: Reconsideration of an application submitted by First Presbyterian
Church for a special exception to permit installation of a columbarium, a structure
containing niches for storage of cremated remains, for use by the church members for property located in
the Low Density Single-Family Residential (RS- 5) zone at 2701 Rochester Avenue.
Walz said that in 2004, the First Presby1erian Church applied for and was granted a special exception to
allow the construction of a columbarium on church property. Walz said the special exception was
opposed by owners of neighboring residential properties. The neighbors challenged Staff's interpretation
that columba ria were an acceptable accessory use for religious facilities in the RS-5 zone. The neighbors
contended that because the Zoning Ordinance specificaiiy required RM-12 zoning for cemeteries and
mausoleums, and because the Zoning Code did not address columbaria specificaiiy, it was therefore
beyond the jurisdiction of the Board of Adjustment to grant the special exception. She added that a law
suit chaiienging the special exception is pending.
Walz stated the Iowa City Zoning Ordinance was updated in December 2005. The new code includes a
new chapter that describes aii land use categories (14-4A). She said the chapter provides descriptions of
various principal uses associated with each land use category as weii as the accessory uses associated
with each principal use. Columba ria are listed as an accessory use (by special exception) for religious
facilities. While the prior special exception is due to be chaiienged in district court, the church has chosen
to avoid the delay of a trial and has reapplied for a special exception under the provisions of the new
Zoning Ordinance.
Walz said the applicant is now requesting a special exception to aiiow the construction of a 96-niche
columbarium, which will allow storage for 192 urns. She said that columbarium is "a structure of vaults
lined with recesses for cinerary urns." Walz said the zoning code defines a religious institution as an
organization having a religious purpose, which has been granted a Federal tax exemption as a section
501 (c)(3) organization under the Internal Revenue Code. The columbarium is intended for use by
members of the First Presbyterian Church and, as such, is a facility related to the use of the church.
Walz said the purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to promote the public health, safety and general
welfare, to conserve and protect the value of property throughout the city, and to encourage the most
appropriate use of land. It is the intent of the Ordinance to permit the fuii use and enjoyment of property in
a manner that does not intrude upon adjacent property. She said the Board may grant the requested
special exception if the requested action is found to be in accordance with the regulations found in
Section 14-4B-4D-14, pertaining to religious institutions in the RS-5 zone, and the general standards for
special exceptions as set forth in Section14-4B-3.
Specific Standards require that religious institutions have access to a coiiector or an arterial street and
specify minimum front and side setbacks of 20 feet and a minimum rear setback of 50 feel. Walz said the
existing church with the proposed columbarium will meet or exceed aii of these requirements.
Walz said the standards also indicate that proposed religious use should be designed to compatible to
adjacent uses. She said the proposed columbarium is located away from direct view from residential
properties and is smaii in comparison to the church building; it measures 5 feet high and has a diameter
of 7-10 feel. In addition to the wide setback, existing trees and shrubs provide screening along Rochester
Avenue. She noted that the church anticipates no significant increase in traffic and therefore proposes no
additional parking to accommodate the columbarium. Because of its proposed location, size, and
anticipated use, in Staff's view, the columbarium will have no significant adverse affects of the livability of
nearby residential uses due to noise, glare from lights, late-night operations, odors, or iitter.
General Standards:
The specific proposed exception will not be detrimental to or endanger the
public health, safety, comfort or general welfare. Walz said there is an existing church on this
property. In Staff's view the expansion of this religious institution to include a columbarium will have no
foreseeable effect on public health, safety, comfort or welfare. She said the proposed columbarium is
relatively smaii in scale (5 feet high and a radius of 7-10 feet) when compared to the existing church
building. The columbarium wiii be located at least 50 feet away from Rochester Avenue and wiii not be
highly visible from adjacent residential properties. Although the columbarium may generate occasional
visitors, Walz said that the traffic associated with its presence is not expected to increase significantly
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 8
from traffic already generated by the existing church services. She said the church has indicated that the
proposed columbarium will not change the intensity of use of the property by its members and does not
anticipate any need for additional parking.
The specific proposed exception will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property
in the immediate vicinity and will not substantially diminish or impair property values In the
neighborhood. Walz said the columbarium will not be highly visible from the street or neighboring
properties. She added that the church property and the proposed location for the columbarium are
screened by established trees and bushes along Rochester Avenue, and the front setback is more than
the required 20-foot minimum setback. Traffic generated by the columbarium should not exceed the type
of traffic that is generated for memorial or funeral services, which are already a part of church's function.
Walz said the appiicant has provided information on property values of homes located next to cemeteries
and supporting statements from other churches that have established columbaria. Walz stated that even
though cemeteries are more intense uses than columbarium, the information submitted by the applicant
indicates that the presence of a cemetery in a residential neighborhood in the Iowa City area has not had
a diminishing affect on property values.
Establishment of the specific proposed exception will not impede the normal and orderly
development and improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the zone in
which such property is located. Walz said the surrounding residential properties are already fully
developed.
Adequate utilities, access roads, drainage and/or necessary facilities have
been or are being provided. She said that adequate utilities, access and drainage are in place to serve
the existing church on this property. The columbarium will not increase demand on these facilities.
Adequate measures have been or will be taken to provide ingress or egress
designed so as to mimmlze traffic congestion on public streets. The Church
has two driveways onto Mt. Vernon Drive and one onto Rochester Avenue. Walz said the proposed
columbarium would be located to the west of the driveway onto Rochester Avenue. As noted traffic
associated with the columbarium should be negligible.
Except for the specific regulations and standards applicable to the exception being considered,
the specific proposed exception, in all other respects, conforms to the applicable regulations or
standards of the zone in which it is to be located. Walz said the proposed addition complies with the
dimensional requirements for religious institutions in the RS-5 zone. Minimum 20-foot front and side
setbacks and the 50-foot rear setback are met or exceeded by both the church building and the proposed
columbarium.
The proposed use will be consistent with the short-range Comprehensive Plan of the City. Walz
stated the Northeast District Plan, a component of the Comprehensive Plan, identifies this area as
appropriate for institutional uses, which would include religious institutions.
Staff recommends that EXC06-00003, an application for a special exception to allow a columbarium
addition to a religious institution in the Low-Density Single- Family zone at 2701 Rochester Avenue be
approved, subject to general compliance with the plans submitted with the application.
Wright asked what the standard of "substantial diminution" is. Holecek said that it is up to the Board to
decide whether evidences presented would lead to conclude that properties in the area could be
substantially diminished by the inclusion of the proposed special exception. She added that there is no
exact definition, but the focus should be on the words "substantial" and "diminish", not necessarily not
growing at the same rate as other properties.
PUBLIC HEARING OPENED
Brown, 2905 Saddle Club Road, NE, said that there are some people in the audience that will talk about
diminished property values and the landscape around the columbarium.
Crane said that he is a long time broker, appraisal and property manager in Iowa City. He said that he
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 9
has been in business for 36 years. He said that, in his opinion, it is hard to measure the effect produced
by a columbarium since there are no before and after evidence in market sales for this community. He
said that the measurement is reduced to legal measurements of compensations. He added that there are
federal guidelines on this issue. The state of Iowa falls in line with these federai rules on the
compensation if there were a before and after situation. This was more of an image thing. Crane said the
zoning is proper, in his opinion. The church has been in place for a long time, and does not believe that
properties as far away as they are from the site will be influenced by the proposed columbaria. He said
that the proximity to the columbaria does not even have to be included in the disclosure statement when
properties are sold. Crane said that, in his opinion, the columbarium does not have the offensive,
negative quality that will affect most buyers.
Rasles said she has been a real estate broker for 26 years. She said that she had never heard of a
columbarium before hearing from Mr. Brown. The columbarium as seen in the brochure is striking in the
simplicity of its structure, with its granite it would appear to be complimentary to the building of a church.
She said that she doubted that anyone would recognize what the columbarium was. She said that there
are a few residential lots adjacent to cemeteries. She said that these properties are priced as any other
properties for the same square footage and features. She said the columbarium will not be visible to
neighboring properties. She was surprised to hear that anyone would think that this would diminish
property vaiues. She added that swing sets in the back yard of a property might have more diminishing
values than a columbarium would.
Brown, handed a new letter received from a realtor.
Lobodiak, 229 Green Mountain Drive, objected to presentation of new letter because it was not filed with
the city clerk or given to opponents prior to hearing.
Holecek indicated that it would be a part of the public record.
Gav said that the landscaping plan for the columbarium is to surround it with evergreens so that is not
visibie from the street. She said that bricks will be layered in a circular fashion and little benches will be
installed. She said that the landscape is very simple with the goal of screening the columbarium so that it
is not visible anywhere but from the church.
Brown said no other neighbors have complained about the columbarium. They had a neighborhood
meeting where 2 or 3 other neighbors attended but there were no complaints.
Moraan, the pastor of the church, said that the church is a good neighbor and wants to be a good
neighbor. He said they try to be respectful of the neighborhood in all their activities. He said their whole
approach is to be a neighborhood church. Morgan said the columbarium is limited in scope, administered
only to people in the congregation. He said they have two families waiting for the columbarium to be
installed. He said that churches and cemeteries are great quiet neighbors to live with and churches are
great neighbors because there are no parties at night. The church does not plan to expand this greatly on
the property.
Dixon. 241Green Mountain Drive, said that she has been a realtor for 25 years. She said that previously
Mr. Brown had submitted sales information on a number of properties located on Catskill Court, which
back up on a cemetery. She said these figures show most properties went up in value when looking over
time. She said Mr. Brown's methodology was not correct and unreliable. She said that in standard real
estate practice you must compare the sale price of subject properties adjacent to cemeteries to similar
properties not adjacent to cemeteries in order to determine the effect, if any, that a cemetery has on the
value. Dixon said she calculated the percent of increase in the sale price per year in the several of the
Catskill properties and compared them with sell prices of similar properties in other locations in the city.
2502,2512,2514,2552, and 2554 Catskill, all split-foyer style zero lot line condos near cemeteries went
up in value per year 3.3%, 4.8%, 4.5%, 2.6% and 3.1%. She added that similar split foyer style zero lot
line condos located at 707 Jama Court and 1741and 1755 Grinn Drive increased in value per year 5.2%,
7.1% and7.8%. She added that the properly at 2582 Catskill, a 2-story style condo unit increased in value
0.5% per year. She said a similar properly at 1621 Grinn increased in value by 19.5% per year. She said
she concluded that the cemetery has a negative impact on properly values based on the information
presented.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 10
Dixon said that the letter from a West Des Moines law firm mentions three properties that have sold in the
vicinity of the church/columbarium. She said that she spoke with a realtor colleague in Des Moines about
these properties. She said that none of the properties mentioned in the letter are adjacent to the church.
One is a block away and the other are across the street a block away. She said that he described the
columbarium as very plain brick, quite innocent looking, which looked more like a wall than like a
monument. She added that in walking by one would not easily be aware of it. She said that only one
neighboring property could possibly see the very end of it. Again Brown's comparison is incorrect.
She read from a statement from a speech given the senior minister of State for Law in Singapore in 2005.
That statement indicated that land owners in Singapore benefit from enhanced property value from
certain land uses, such as MRT stations or giant retail centers, or up-zoning, but that others may suffer if
a columbarium is located nearby,
Alexander questioned whether a difference in price between east and west sides of Iowa City. She said
she was aware of a difference in housing prices on the east and west sides. She wondered whether there
might be other factors besides the location close to the cemetery that might influence the property values.
Dixon indicated that it depends on the buyer and their individual preferences-beauty is in the eye of the
beholder. Alexander asked whether there were averages for one side of the town versus the other or if
Dixon would counsel a client that prices were higher on one side of town. Dixon said not necessarily and
that she found the differences in her comparison striking. Alexander clarified that she did not feel that a
columbarium and a cemetery were the same thing. Dixon said she could agree to a certain extent, but
that she supplied a further comparison to show that the information that Brown presented does not
support the issue of non-diminishment of values.
Lobodlak 229 Green Mountain Drive. He said that Mr, Crane is correct in saying that the proper measure
of damages is going to be burden before and after. He said you have to look at comparable properties
that are not burdened and properties that are burdened and subtract the difference and come up with
federal severance damages. This is a case of first impression-no other comparisons. That does not
mean that it is not rational. Lobodiak said that Alexander and Wright had looked at the West Des Moines
ietter as proof that property values are not affected by columbarium. He said that the letter only mentions
that the three properties have gone up in value, but the letter does not compare like properties-before
and after. That does not mean that vaiues have not been impaired.
Lobodiak said that the church has to bring evidence that it will either not substantially diminish or will not
impair property values. He said it is an alternative to show one or another, and the evidence presented
does not adequately support that columbarium will not affect properties in the area. They have not
presented adequate evidence to find that it will not impair values, He said that there is no evidence to
support their claim that there will be no impairment in the value of properties. He said that some people
may find the columbarium attractive, but others will not. Some people will not purchase next to a
cemetery or a columbarium.
Alexander asked Lobodiak what he thought the reason would be for not wanting to buy near a
columbarium. He responded that it was the burial of cremated human remains within sight distance of
your home some people might have a problem with. Some people do not want to live next to a cemetery,
but the burden is on the applicant to show that there will not diminish or impair property values. The
evidence from West Des Moines was incomplete. He does not believe the applicant had met the burden
of proof.
Brown indicated that the columbarium would not be visible from the properties of those neighbors who
objected.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
Alexander said that she would like to talk about the property value issue. She said that she thought about
it and has a concern as to how to look at that as a Board. She said that they can look as additional things
that are part of the standards which in violation will diminish property vaiues (traffic, ingress-egress, litter,
noise, etc.). Holecek said that the general standards and the board are created to do justice when the
literal application of the zoning ordinance is a hardship or can burden other properties. She said that the
general standards are created to strike the balance of negative externalities when you allow a special
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 11
exception use in the area. She said while there are particular standards they all attempt to achieve the
same thing, balance the rights of all property owners against negative externalities.
Shelangouski said that all standards apply to the whole. If the special exception meets the other general
standards that one could interpret that to mean that property values would not be diminished. She said
that while the church did not prove a dollar for dollar value with regard to property values, she believed
that they had met all the other standards they need to meet. This allowed her to conclude that it would not
substantially diminish values.
Alexander said that she did not think that it would be reasonable for applicant to have to provide such
scientific comparisons in order to meet the burden of proof, that there were broader considerations that
inform the issues.
. Holecek offered an example of visual impact.
Alexander said that one of the considerations is general welfare. She said that she tends to look at
general welfare in a broader sense, and believes that columbarium is a good solution to a space use
probiem with regard to cemeteries. If a columbarium can be done reasonably and fit into a neighborhood.
Wood said they will never get hard proof of property values since there are so many factors are affecting
property vales. He said that he sees nothing that would lead him to believe that the columbarium will have
a substantial impact on property values of surrounding properties.
MOTION: Wood moved that EXC06-00003, an application for a special exception to allow a
columbarium addition to a religious institution in the Low-Density Single- Family zone at 2701
Rochester Avenue be approved, subject to general compliance with the plans submitted with the
application. Wright seconded the motion.
Alexander said that columbaria are listed as an accessory use to a religious institution. She said that it will
be located away from the direct view of residential properties. She added that it is not a large structure
and will have a garden around it. Alexander said the church had tried to make it an attractive, meditative
space. She said that there will be no significant effects on livability of the area as it relates to noise, traffic,
glare from lights, odor or litter. She made a comparison to City High's tennis lights in terms of
externalities. She said that it will not be detrimental to or endanger the general public's health, safety,
comfort or general welfare but it will enhance the general welfare due to the solution that it offers instead
of cemeteries.
Alexander said that even if compared with properties adjacent to cemeteries it can not be stated that they
had suffered a substantial diminution in values. She said that "substantial" is a meaningful requirement.
Even accepting evidence regarding diminishment of values next to cemeteries was not enough to arrive
at substantial. She said it will not be offensive. She said people going along the street will not know what
it is.
Alexander said that the establishment of the specific proposed exception should not impede the normal
and orderly development and improvement of the surrounding property since everything is already
developed. She said that it will not put a stress on public streets, and in all other respects, conforms to the
applicable regulations or standards of the zone in which it is located. She said that the proposed use is
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan of the City.
Wright will vote in favor. He said the application meets all the specific standards in terms of being on a
collector street and setbacks. He added that most people will not even notice the thing is there, much less
know what it is. Thus the possibility of substantial diminishment of property values is very unlikely. He
added that the rest of general standards are clearly met.
Shelangouski said that she will vote in favor for the reasons already stated. She said that it will not
substantially diminish property values. She said the landscape plan will help immensely making it look
nicer.
Wood will vote in favor. He said that is almost impossible to reach the level of proof that will make this an
easy vote. He felt there was a lot of evidence to show that property value will not be substantially
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
May 10, 2006
Page 12
diminished. He said that he does not believe that property values are in danger of being substantially
diminished.
Leigh said that she will vote in favor for the reasons already stated.
The motion passed 5:0,
OTHER:
NONE
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION
Holecek said that the request for reconsideration on the initial ruling for Wal-Mart drive through and gas
station was denied.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting adjourned at 6:52 PM.
s:fpcdlminutesIBO.AJ2006105-10-06.doc
Board of Adjustment
Attendance Record
2006
Term
Name Expires 0111 I 02/08 03/08 04/13 05/10
Karen Lei~h 01101107 X X OlE X X
Carol Alexander 01101108 X X X X X
Michael Wri~ht 01101109 X X X X X
Ned Wood 01101110 X X X X X
M. Shelan~ouski 01101111 X X X X X
Key:
X = Present
0 = Absent
OlE = Absent/Excused
, NM = No Meeting
l]1[
MINUTES
Youth Advisory Commission
May 25, 2006 - 7:00 P.M.
Harvat Hall, City Hall
FINAL
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 7:00 P.M.
Members Present: Kamps, Subramanian, Nelson, Keranen, Stubbers (electronically)
Members Absent (Excused): Bleam, Ziegenhorn
Others present:
City Council Liaison Correia; City Clerk Karr
Recommendations to Council (effective onlv after seDarate Council action)
None
ADDroval of Minutes
Moved by Subramanian, seconded by Kamps, to approve the minutes from the minutes
of April 13 and April 20. City Clerk Karr distributed a corrected copy of page 1 of the by-
laws. Motion carried unanimously, 5/0, Bleam and Ziegenhorn absent.
Set Next Meetina and Summer Schedule
Members agreed to the following schedule for the summer months:
Wednesday, June 14,6:30 p.m.
Monday, July 10, 6:30 p.m.
Monday, August 14, 6:30 p.m.
Facilitated Discussion of mission driven Dlannina
City Council Liaison Correia facilitated discussion. She noted that the first flip[ chart
contained only one of the two statements contained in the bylaws and in the resolution
establishing the Commission.
FLIP CHART # 1
Mission
To promote understanding and awareness of Iowa City among IC Youth, allow a
select group of youth to make decisions concerning them & their peers, enable
youth members to utilize & expand on their leadership abilities, & to serve as a
mechanism for communication between youth and adults in IC and create a
bridge whereon youth & adults can develop partnership.
Correia encouraged members to identify common themes that had been discussed in
previous meetings. That exercise resulted in the formulation of the second flip chart.
Youth Advisory Commission
May 25, 2006
Page 2
FLIP CHART # 2
. Environmental Concerns
. Mini grants
. Exposure
T shirt /logo
Enhance communication
Design website
. Mapping youth leadership & involvement/resources
Correia suggested a relationship between Mapping and Exposure, and the majority
agreed it was difficult to proceed to the items listed without first developing further those
two. There was discussion on development of a website and the possibility of asking
city staff (webmaster) to attend the next meeting. It was decided that members would
research individual websites for the next meeting (June 14) and bring examples with
them. City Clerk Karr stated that the room was wireless and members could actually
access the sites and share likes and dislikes at the meeting. If hard copy handouts of
sites would be helpful Karr offered to print them as well. It was decided that each
member would bring 2-3 examples, not necessarily of Youth sites, to the June meeting.
City staff would be asked to attend a future meeting after some agreement and
consensus had been reached.
Correia noted she is involved in the Iowa Youth Survey and asked for any volunteers
that might be interested in being trained as facilitators. _Subramanian, Keranen, and
Kamps volunteered. Nelson stated he needed more information and Stubbers indicated
she would be out of town for the summer months and unable to participate. Correia
stressed this would be totally separate from the Commission but a great opportunity to
become connected with other youth and be visible.
In order to identify what other resources / projects are available in the community,
Subramanian offered to contact Janie Jeffries at United Action for Youth and Nancy
Quellhorst from the Chamber as speakers for the June 14 meeting. It was agreed that
they would be scheduled first on the agenda and provided 30-45 minutes.
Development of Loao / t-shirt
Keranen offered some preliminary designs for the t-shirt, suggesting it be professional
and simple. She offered to provide additional designs for consideration at the June 14
meeting. It was agreed she would provide designs to help focus discussion and then a
City staff would clean up the design for final approval by the Commission. In response
to Commission Members, Karr indicated that the Commission would be involved in
selecting the design, shirt material, and color. Karr stated that until a design is selected
materials, vendors, timeline, etc could not be determined. Keranen suggested the shirt
be a polo type rather than a T shirt. Kamps wondered if the shirts could be done for
summer events. Correia suggested the Commission re-visit name tags. Keranen and
Subramanian stated they had examples of nice buttons that might be considered. Both
offered to bring them to the June meeting.
Youth Advisory Commission
May 25, 2006
Page 3
Public Discussion
None
Announcements/Invitation
City Clerk Karr distributed contact information to each member and asked they review
and return to her. Email distribution of packets will remain and Subramanian requested
a hard copy in addition to the electronic one.
Moved by Subramanian, seconded by Kamps, to adjourn 8:00 p.m. Motion carried
unanimously, 5/0.
Prepared by Karr
Youth Advisory Commission
May 25, 2006
Page 4
Youth Advisory Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
(Meetinl! Date)
TERM 3/23 3/30 4/13 4/20 5/25
NAME EXP.
Audrey 12/31/07 X X X X X
Keraneu
Sarah 12/31/07 X X X OlE OlE
Ziel!enhorn
Subha 12/31/06 X X X X X
Subramanian
Elyse 12/31/06 OlE X X X X
Abboud
Kamps
Maison 12/31/07 X X X OlE OlE
Bleam
Jacqueliue 12/31/07 X x X X X
Stubbers
Michael 12/31/06 X X X X X
Nelson
KEY:
X = Present
o = Abseut
OlE = Absent/Excused
NM = No meetiug
--- = Not a Member
rnr
FINAL
MAY 2006
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
MAY 23, 2006
G08/9- SENIOR CENTER
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 5:00 PM
Members Present: Betty Kelly, Bob Engel, David Gould, Jay Honohan, Jo Hensch,
Sarah Maiers and Nancy Wombacher
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Michelle Buhman and Linda Kopping
Others Present: Lynn Campbell
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion: To approve the April minutes as distributed. Motion carried on a vote of
7-0. Kelly/Maiers.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS
Engel volunteered to write the web article from this meeting. He will also report on the
meeting and miscellaneous Center activities to the Board of Supervisors and City
Council. Gould volunteered to report to the Board of Supervisors and City Council
following the June Commission meeting.
PLANNING FOR VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION - Kopping
The Volunteer Recognition planning committee decided to hold a recognition breakfast
on Friday June 30 from 7:30 to 9:00 AM. As they have done for the past several years,
Elder Services' Senior Dining program has agreed to order the food and help with the
preparation the morning of the event. We will be serving pancakes, fresh fruit, sausage,
muffins, scrambled eggs and beverages. Invitations will be mailed by June 9,2006.
Staff is still working to find entertainment for the event.
STANDING COMMITTEE STATUS REPORT- Kopping
Fundraising Committee -Engel
Engel highlighted the main points of discussion from the May 5, 2006 meeting of the
Fundraising Committee. Meeting notes attached.
Motion: To consolidate the responsibilities of the current Finance and Fundraising
Committees and create a new committee that would assume the entire
consolidated list of responsibilities. The new committee should be referred to as
the Finance Committee. - Maiers/Kelly Vote carried on a vote of 7-0.
FINAL
MAY 2006
Promotion Committee -Hensch
Hensch highlighted the main points of discussion from the April 21, 2006 meeting of the
Promotion Committee. Meeting notes attached.
Community Relations and Outreach Meeting - Wombacher
Wombacher highlighted the main points of discussion from the May 10 and May 24,
2006 meetings of the Community Relations and Outreach Committee. Meeting notes
attached.
OPERATIONAL REVIEW-Kopping
Staff reports were reviewed and discussed. Some minor typographical corrections were
made.
The chair of the Board of Directors of Ecumenical Towers invited Kopping to a meeting
with the design team working on a plan for a second elevator at Ecumenical Towers.
The purpose of this meeting was to review and discuss the plans that the group hoped to
implement.
Kopping went to the meeting accompanied by fellow city employees Kumi Morris,
Architectural Services, Shaun Bradbury, Project Engineer, and Craig Buhman
Maintenance Worker III.
The proposed 10+ story elevator would be an addition to the exterior of Ecumenical
Towers on the northwest corner of that building. It would be directly adjacent to the
northeast corner of the Senior Center and in very close proximity to the Center's east
wall. City staffers at the meeting expressed concern that this location would disrupt
access to the boiler room from the east side of the building, block an air intake vent for
the ground floor and perhaps impact the exterior design features of the building on the
east side. It would also block the large windows on the west wall of classroom 202 and
complicate exterior maintenance of the exterior of the building on the east side.
Nonetheless, the need for a second elevator that enhances mobility and promotes safety
among the residents of Ecumenical Towers is unquestioned.
The design team and chair of the Board of Directors for Ecumenical Towers were
advised that the Center is designated as a historic landmark and that any changes to the
exterior of the facility would need approval through historic preservation prior to
implementation.
Several other potential locations for the elevator were discussed at the meeting including
using a second elevator shaft that was built but never used for an elevator in the existing
building. Currently it is being used as a utility chase and can not be easily converted
back into an elevator shaft.
An architect has been retained to evaluate the current status of the Center's foundation
so that it can be monitored for changes in the event that the proposed project is
undertaken.
Senior Center staff is investigating whether or not the roof damage was caused by the
tornado or if it is age related ware and tear. City engineers, Senior Center Maintenance
and Advanced Builders have been involved.
2
FINAL
MAY 2006
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Honohan summarized his report to the City Council. Hensch summarized her report to
the Board of Supervisors.
Motion: To adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 7-0. Hensch/Kelly.
3
FINAL
MAY 2006
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2006
Name Term 1/24 2/21 3/21 4/18 5/23
Exoires
Bob Engel 12/31/08 X X X X X
David Gould 12/31/08 X X X X X
Jo Hensch 12/31/06 X X X X X
Jav Honohan 12/31/07 X X X X X
Bettv Kellv 12/31/07 X OlE X X X
Sarah Maier 12/31/06 X X X X X
Nancv Wombacher 12/31/06 OlE OlE X X X
Key:
X=
0=
O/E=
NM =
Present
Absent
AbsenVExcused
No meeting
Not a member
4
FINAL
MAY 2006
Senior Center Commission Fundraising Committee Meeting
Friday, May 5, 2006
Senior Center, Room G08
Meeting Notes by L. Kopping
Attending: Sarah Maiers, Bob Engel, Jay Honohan, Michelle Buhman (staff), Linda
Kopping (staff)
1. Discussion of Committee's Purpose
. Develop ways to obtain funds to provide programs and services.
. Is the role of the committee advisory, policy making, administrative or tactical?
There was general agreement that the committee is advisory to the Commission-it should
develop funding recommendations that are submitted to the full Commission for consideration.
. What is the difference between the Finance Committee and the Fundraising
Committee?
The Fundraising Committee strives to secure financial support for the Center and
needs to incorporate approaches involving governmental and private funds. The
Finance Committee decides how to spend funding. Would it be a good idea to
combine the functions?
Discussion focused on the advisability of calling this committee the Finance
. Committee and having it assume all the responsibilities of the current Fundraising
and Finance Committees. There was agreement that a single group should
address every aspect of the budget and finances (revenue and expenditures).
To avoid confusion and a duplication of responsibilities, a proposal to combine
the two committees will be submitted to the full Commission for approval. It will
be recommended that the new committee be called the Finance Committee and
that the members of the current Fundraising Committee serve on the new Finance
Committee.
2. Problem: a large percentage of participants and community members feel the Center
is fully funded by local governmental organizations and wonder why larger dollar
amounts are being held in the Charitable Giving and Endowment accounts. We've
been a "victim of our success". There was a discussion of how the public views the
Endowment and Charitable Giving accounts and how the committee might endeavor
to change the public's perception of this.
3. Questioned whether a portion of the endowment earnings could support the
scholarship program. Felt it would be a good idea to identify the endowment as a
funding source for this program.
4. Should the committee evaluate the membership fee structure? Parking fees? Class
registration fee? It was noted that independent contractor fees generate a
considerable amount of revenue.
5
FINAL
MAY 2006
5. This committee is concerned about membership recruitment. Questioned what the
Promotion Committee is doing to increase memberships. Public education is
important-help people realize the low cost of current services/programs available.
6. What about an annual fundraising event?
7. Should the Committee consider grants? The OSHER grant, if funded, will help
generate good will and new revenue.
8. Advertising in ICPC special feature-"Boomers"
9. Bob Engel will report to SCC.
6
FINAL
MAY 2006
Community Relations and Outreach Committee
April 24, 2006
Meeting Notes by L. Kopping
Attending: Betty Kelly, Jay Honohan, Nancy Wombacher, Michelle Buhman (staft);
Linda Kopping (staft)
How far do we want to reach?
I. County wide? Perhaps adjacent counties-Washington and Cedar?
2. Programs are a mechanism of outreach.
3. Communications-
. Letting people know what we are doing and what is available. Find out what they
know about us and what they think of senior center. Get input back from them.
. Presentations to various city councils?
. Are there service clubs in the smaller towns.
. Congregate meal sites.
. Also VI Retiree Association
. Senior Housing Facilities
. Nursing Home
4. Contract with Living facilities for programming. Generate Revenue. OSHER grant
might help with this.
5. Volunteer groups do presentations throughout the county-handouts
6. Goal-Developing information for distribution?
7. Purpose is to increase the presence of the Center in the community. Educate the
community about the Center. If people learn more about what is done here, we will
increase participation.
8. What do we do now. Can we send out info with nutrition program e.g. SCTV
schedule with home delivered meals
9. What is Community Outreach? More visual and vocal communications.
Partnerships. There appeared to be consensus on this
10. Community outreach = programs, classes, etc. that are held at other locations.
Including things like new partnerships, preview of programs available at the
Center and special programs. Perhaps evening programs, weekend programs,
special class series or other programs that we can't offer here. There appeared
to be consensus on this.
II. Identify what we are doing, Identify sites and possible locations. Contact living
facilities and see what they want in terms of programming. Some programs will be
charged for and others will not.
12. Should we be looking at other age groups? Intergenerational stuff in the schools?
7
FINAL
MAY 2006
13. Presence in community at local events. Wear t-shirts, bags, pins. More Channel 4
coverage. Find out if Channel four airs any calendar or program information. Have
cable and SCTV people at meeting after new equipment is in place
14. Develop a plan for a presentation -identify our goals and aspirations for partnership
before we go to the meeting with living facility directors. Develop a proposal-steps,
time, location, and a plan about exactly what we are offering.
15. We need to involve the generation of 40-50 y.o. Bring together for a brainstorming
sessions to get them involved in thinking about the Senior Center and their own
future. Discuss senior issues, the center and other related topics. May be interested
in legal issues-need advanced directives, etc. Idea is just to get people in the
building and bring Center in to the realm of awareness.
8
FINAL
MAY 2006
Community Relations and Outreach Committee
May 10,2006
Meeting Notes by L. Kopping
Attending: Jay Honohan, Nancy Wombacher, Michelle Buhman (staff); Linda Kopping
(staff)
I. Community Outreach is offering programs that are available at other locations-in
person or via TV or internet. Intent is to serve seniors in outlying areas. Programs
will be the same or similar to the ones offered here. Purpose to dispel myths about
the Center and spread good will. Show people what they can get if they come to the
Center.
2. Staffing questions-use volunteers to offer programs. Speakers bureau was
discussed. Need to get people and topics. Could produce a promotional piece and
distribute it-----<:atalogue.
3. Good idea to ask what kind of programming the places might be interested in having.
Look at survey and focus group information gathered in 2005 for ideas.
4. How will we carry this out? IdentifY speakers, put together catalogue.
5. Who do we want to market to? Need to get information from these groups.
. Community Centers
. Churches
. Service Clubs
. Retirement Housing
. Dining sites
. Neighborhood Centers
6. Also retirement programming targeting younger seniors.
7. Next Meeting: Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 1 p.m.
8. Staff follow-up:
Get Nancy and Jay the survey and focus group information. Pull together list of
organizations for catalogue distribution. Next meeting develop letter of inquiry for
service groups and refine list of organizations to include.
9
FINAL
MAY 2006
Promotion Committee
April 21, 2006
Meeting Notes by L. Kopping
Attending: David Gould, Jo Hensch, Nancy Wombacher, Michelle Buhman (staff), Linda
Kopping (staff)
1. The guest editorial for the Iowa City Press Citizen that Kopping wrote was reviewed
and commented upon.
2. Discussion of Committee goals and objectives:
. Bring information to public related to the Center that promotes an accurate and
positive image of the Center. The end goal is that you want people receiving
information about the Center to be encouraged to support and participate in
programs and services.
. Need to evaluate effectiveness of the Center in order to increase participation and
community support.
. There are quantitative ways to evaluate effectiveness.
. It is important to educate people who are not yet seniors in order to familiarize
them with what is available at the Center and recognize its value to the
community.
. The group discussed pulling together a group of 40-45 y.o. to brainstorm about
the senior center.
. This committee is about awareness. It needs to focus on more than the newspaper.
Service organizations should be used to spread information about the Center.
Also printed materials, shirts, radio, TV.
. The Committee should decide what promotional methods are effective. Look at
what we are doing and develop a plan. Web site needs to be updated, look at
distribution of materials.
3. Possible action steps:
. Photography exhibit
. What ifthere was a regular feature that promotes senior people or written by
senior people. Look at their lives, philosophy, achievements, etc. Bring in
Center. Like the A+ Achiever (Know your Neighbor) at the schools with a bit of
history. Prepare articles for them. Focus on accomplishments rather than age.
Seek out stories, use notable people
. Post card mailing to friends. Find key events and have core group of participants
invite their friends.
. Put a call out for ideas of "people who have made a difference of my life."
Articles about seniors, a tribute to someone who positively affected life.
4. Next meeting: May 31, 2006 at 1 PM
10
(]I;[
~ Iowa City:
~Public Library
FINAL APPROVED
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes
5:00 pm - April 27, 2006
2nd Floor Board Room
David VanDusseldorp, President
Unzee McCray, Vice President
Thomas Dean
William Karf
Thomas Martin
Meredith Rich-Chappell
Pat Schnack, Secretary
Leon Spies
Tom Suter
Agenda item 3A
Members Present:
Tom Dean, William Korf, Tom Martin, Linzee McCray, David
VanDusseldorp
Members Absent:
Meredith Rich-Chappell, Pat Schnack, Leon Spies, Tom Suter
Staff Present:
Barb Black, Terri Byers, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Debb Green, Heidi
Lauritzen, Kara Logsden, Elyse Miller, Patty McCarthy, Hal Penick
Call Meeting to Order
VanDusseldorp called the meeting to order at 5:01 pm.
Public Discussion
None.
Approval of Minutes
The minutes of the regular meeting of March 30, 2006 were approved after minimal changes. A
motion was made by Korf and seconded by McCray to approve the minutes as corrected from
March. The vote was approved 5-0.
Unfinished Business
Leased Space. There is no news from Kevin Hanick about prospects for the basement space.
The New York NY Deli people are finally getting their building permit. They had hoped to open in
May, but issues with the code requirements prevented them from doing so. Korf asked about the
difficulty of doing business in Iowa City. Craig pointed out that we have very strict building codes
in Iowa City and they are enforced.
Building Budget. Craig talked about the building project budget balance that needs to be
spent. The City wants US to spend this soon because of the bonding requirements. Since the
bathrooms and basement have nOW been budgeted, Craig would like to have this money spent
by late summer. The bond proceeds have to be used to build, equip, and furnish the Library, so
Agenda item 3A
Page 2
the range of items we could use this money for legitimately is broad in scope. We have already
committed to building a firewall for New York NY Deli, the first floor tenant, and to
replace/replant some trees in City Plaza. The new building construction caused some trees to be
removed and Craig wants to replace them now that the Moen project is nearly complete. The
possible items in the building budget range in price. The draft project list is brought to the Board
for their information and discussion. Martin wondered if all of the signs could be redone after
Dean discussed that he was glad to see signage replacement on this list. VanDusseldorp
suggested prioritizing the list and to leave off or delay some things on this list. Craig suggested
that we would go forward with items on the list unless they cost more than $5,000. 5he will bring
more expensive items back to the Board as prices are confirmed.
Craig discussed purchasing a camera security system to protect both people and the collections.
Cameras and/or other security devices were not placed when the building was constructed
because we didn't know how much it would cost or where they would be needed. A team headed
by Craig has been gathering information about security systems for the Library. Primary areas
identified for cameras are restroom entrances and stairwells. The cameras will not be monitored
all the time, but digitally recorded so that information on them could be reviewed later. The goal
of the implementation of a security system is to balance the privacy of patrons with prevention of
theft from the collections and with patron safety.
New Business
Election of Officers
Slate of officers for consideration. Dean, as Chair of Nominating Committee, together with
McCray and Martin, worked together to bring forward a slate of candidates. Martin collected
information in Dean's absence last month. McCray is currently Vice President and she has been
asked and agreed to serve as President; Pat Schnack was nominated to continue as Secretary.
Two names were brought forward for Vice President, Dean and Martin. Both nominees expressed
interest in the position. After discussion between them, it was decided that Dean would be the
Vice Presidential nominee as Martin's term expires later. There were no nominations from the
floor. VanDusseldorp asked if there were any objections to having the election handled as a slate
of candidates. The slate carried 5-0. The transition to new officers takes place at the July 2006
meeting.
Staff Reports
Deoartmental Reoorts: Systems, Technical Services
Eaudio is closer than ever. Authentication issues have been resolved. Dean appreciates the
departmental summaries that describe how things work in each department. He finds it very
helpful.
Foundation Reoort
VanDusseldorp asked about the upcoming Foundation annual event. McCarthy discussed the
Building the Collection fund raising event on Sunday, May 7 at hotelVetro. There are many people
interested in bidding on the 13 auction items. Craig pointed out that bidders are getting more
sophisticated and learning to finesse their bids by pooling resources together, etc. McCarthy also
had praise for the silent auction items that will be available for bidding at the event. Everyone is
encouraged to attend and participate.
Service to University Heiahts and Hills
June 1 service begins for University Heights (UH) and Hills. Promoting service to these
communities was discussed. Bringing groups from UH for tours once cards are available is one
possibility. VanDusseldorp wondered if the governing bodies of these communities want to
Agenda item 3A
Page 3
encourage their citizens to get library cards, or just acknowledge that they are available. He
wondered if UH and Hills are interested in public relations help, etc. Craig pointed out that Hills
fee is based on use, UH is not. Since the Library's fee is based on the percentage of overall use,
Hills' fee will represent a very small part of overall Library use. Martin mentioned that he spoke
with the Coralville Library director about the UH and Hills contracts for library service and that
she was very positive about this development.
Volunteer Recoanition
Craig reported on the Volunteer Recognition event. The theme was "Volunteers are
Superheroes." The children's and adult recognitions were celebrated in separate programs but on
the same day and it was a great event. Samantha Wikstrom, from Children's Services, infused a
lot of energy into the program this year. The Volunteer of the Year was Mike Reimer, a
Circulation volunteer. McCray attended the Children's recognition and enjoyed it.
Librarv and the Tornado
The Library sustained very little damage from the tornado, especially when you consider some of
the damage we've had around us. Miller and Beam have documented Library damage and sent it
to the City. The roofing company will inspect all of the repairs that Library Building Maintenance
staff made to the roof. Dean wondered about Library doors being locked. The Daily Iowan
published a letter from a young woman who was locked out of the building to which Craig
responded. Dean suggested that maybe in the next issue of The Windowwe could highlight the
Library's emergency policies, especially severe weather. Clark and Green were here during the
tornado and reported that our emergency plan worked well. The things we learned from that
night are being incorporated into a revised Emergency Policy.
Theft of Movies
The theft of DVDs and their subsequent recovery at the Record Collector represented
approximately 2S% of materials that have been stolen since December. VanDusseldorp wondered
if the Record Collector was cooperative. Logsden reported that the business was cooperative at
first, but then had to have some assistance from the Police Department who instructed the
Record Collector about what to do and what to look for. The perpetrator has not been back to
the Library as far as we know. Other steps are being taken to prevent further theft in addition to
the new Checkpoint disc security system. Craig applauded Library staff for their good work in this
effort.
President's Report
VanDusseldorp wants to encourage Board members to get to the Library on different days/times
than they normally would and to visit areas of the Library that they wouldn't normally visit.
Announcements from Members
KOrf mentioned the Early Keyboard Society would have their final concert in the Music Building on
Sunday at 3:00 p.m. He also mentioned The Crucible, based on Arthur Miller's play, which is
coming up. Dean announced that Weber Days is occurring in May to coincide with National
Historic Preservation month. McCray mentioned that Old Capitol is reopening on May 6.
Committee Reports
Foundation Members
Included in Foundation report.
Evaluation Committee
Committee members are meeting with Library managers to help with Craig's evaluation. Martin
would like to have comments about Craig's goals statement by 5/12.
Agenda item 3A
Page 4
Communications
None.
Financial Reports
Fine receipts were down slightly since they follow circulation, which is also down a bit.
Use Reports
Craig believes we will have the second highest circulation ever this year. Some goals in next
strategic plan include looking at DVD Express, which will be in place before the new fiscal year
begins. This new service should increase circulation. Dean wondered about the statistics for
undefined materials and for the lobby. Martin had a question about circulation by area. Craig
explained reciprocal borrowing and that it includes all of the small towns that borrow from our
library. Martin found this impressive. Dean was glad to see a healthy increase in YA fiction. Craig
said that we emphasized the YA collection this year and those efforts are showing.
Disbursements
Visa Expenditures for March 2006 were reviewed. A motion was made by Martin and seconded by
Dean to approve disbursements for March 2006. The motion carried with a vote of 5-0.
Set Agenda Order for May Meeting
Circulation policy review
Leased space
Director Evaluation update
Building budget items
Public relations conversation
Adjournment
It was noted that Craig will be lobbying the Iowa congressional delegation this week in
Washington DC.
A motion was made by Martin and seconded by Korf to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed
with a vote of 5-0. The meeting was adjourned at 6: 13 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
CALENDAR YEAR 2006
Meetina Date
Nome Term 1/26/06 2/23/06 3/30/06 4/27/06 5/25/06 6/22/06 7/27/06 8/24/06 9/28/06 10/26/06 11 /16/06 12/28/06
Exp
Thomas Dean 7/01/09 X X OlE X X
Bill Korf 7/01109 X X X X X
Tom Martin 6/30/11 X X X X OlE
Linzee McCray 7/01/09 X OlE X X X
Meredith 6/30/11 X X X OlE X
Rich-Chappel
Pat Schnack 7/01/07 X X OlE OlE X
Leon Spies 6/30/11 X X X OlE X
Tom Suter 7/01/07 0 0 0 0 0
, David 7/01/07 OlE X X X X
VanDusseldorP
KEY: X = Present
o = Absent
OlE = AbsentlExcused
NM = No meeting
I
c:r
MINUTES
Iowa City Airport Commission
May 31, 2006
Iowa City Airport Terminal-lO:30AM
FINAL
Members Present: Randy Hartwig, Chair; Howard Horan; Greg Farris; Janelle Rettig
Members Absent: John Staley
Staff Present: Michael Tharp - Arrived Late
Others Present: Congressman Jim Leach; Kitty Donahue, Congressman Leach Staff
Assistant
DETERMINE QUORUM:
Chairperson Hartwig called the meeting to order at 10:30 AM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: NONE
PUBLIC DISCUSSION: NONE
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
A. A general discussion, with Congressman Jim Leach, of Federal Airport Improvement
Plan (AIP) funding for FY 2007 was held. A discussion was held about the President's
proposed budget cuts of almost $1 billion to AIP's authorized funding for FY 2007 of
$3.7 billion. Commission members conducted an overview of airport operations and
improvements.
B. Commission members and Congressman Jim Leach were given a tour of The
University ofIowa's mechanical and industrial engineering research projects by Tom
Schnell, Associate Professor, University of Iowa.
Adjourn: Meeting adjourned at 12:00 PM
Chairperson
Date
Airport Commission
May 31,2006
Page 2
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
(Meetine Dat e)
TERM 1/12 2/9 3/9 4/13 5/1 5/11 5/31 6/8
NAME EXP.
Daniel Clay 5/3/11 -- --- -- --- --- --- --
Randy Hartwig 3/1/09 X X X X X X X
Greg Farris 3/1/07 0 X X X X X X
John Staley 3/1/10 X X X X X X OlE
Howard Horan 3/1/08 X X X X X X X
Janelle Rettig 3/1/12 --- --- X X X X X
KEY: X = Present
o = Absent
OlE = AbsentlExcused
NM = No meeting
-- = Not a Member
2
c:r:
MINUTES
Iowa City Airport Commission
May 11, 2006
Iowa City Airport Terminal- 5:45 PM
FINAL
Members Present: Randy Hartwig, Chair; John Staley; Howard Horan; Greg Farris,
Janelle Rettig
Staff Present: Sue Dulek, Michael Tharp
Others Present: David Hughes, Harry Wolf, Andy Bockenstedt, Harrel Timmons,
Phillip Wolford
DETERMINE QUORUM:
Chairperson Hartwig called the meeting to order at 5:45 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Re: Parcel No. 1020177001 - The Airport
Commission recommends to the City Council that they negotiate the sale of this parcel,
contingent upon the proceeds from this sale being spent on Airport improvements
(pavement, taxiways, aprons, concrete, asphalt improvements) and that they
aggressively defend the airspace ofthat property in the future.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM APRIL 13, 2006 and MAY 1, 2006, MEETINGS:
Chairperson Hartwig asked if there were any additions or changes to the above-named
minutes. Rettig moved to accept the minutes of the April 13, 2006, meeting as amended,
and the May 1, 2006, meeting as written; seconded by Horan. Motion passed 5-0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
A. Parcel of Land: Parcel No. 1020177001 (the "Hagen parcel" located on Highway 1
between land owned by Patricia Wade and Ann Hargrave) - A discussion ensued
about what this land is going to be used for. Hartwig noted that he thought it was for
used cars. The amount that will have to be paid back to the FAA was also discussed,
with David Hughes of Earth Tech stating that it is a percentage that is paid back, not a
set amount. The members discussed their feelings regarding selling this parcel of
land versus leasing. Hartwig noted that he feels they have some present needs that
should be addressed and that the proceeds from this sale would be put to good use.
Staley asked Dulek to clarify restrictions to this land, as far as what can and cannot be
done near the Airport. She described various FAA regulations regarding usage.
Rettig stated that she is in favor of selling this parcel, stating that she feels they
should return it to the tax rolls as quickly as possible. Staley questioned possible
FAA scenarios regarding this land. Horan stated that he feels they should consider a
ground lease on this parcel, and gave a brief history of this parcel ofland. Members
Airport Commission
May 11, 2006
Page 2
next asked questions regarding the amount of taxes that would be collected on this
parcel, if allowed to be sold. It was noted again that the part of this parcel that was
originally needed will still be protected because it will not be sold, and that the
proceeds from this sale would greatly benefit the Airport with projects such as
pavement repairs. The topic then turned to how they could set up lease prices at a set
amount for five years and then raise to another amount, versus selling the land now
and using the proceeds for needed improvements at the Airport. The discussion
continued with members stating their opinions on selling versus leasing of this parcel.
Rettig moved that the Airport Commission recommend to the City Council that
they negotiate the sale on this parcel, contingent upon the proceeds from this sale
being spent on Airport improvements (pavement, taxiways, aprons, concrete,
asphalt improvements); and that the Commission strongly recommend to the
City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission that they aggressively
defend the airspace of that property from now and forever and that they move
on with selling this property; seconded by Hartwig. Motion carried 3-2; Staley
and Horan voting in the negative.
B. F AAlDOT Projects - Earth Tech - David Hughes
a. Runway 7/25 - Hughes stated that the area has been graded and
seeded, and other than some equipment sitting there, everything is
done and will be ready for the grading project. Currently, he states
that they are in the bidding process for the grading project and have
been working with Planning and Zoning on various aspects of this.
Mid-American is aware of needs and Hughes meets with Qwest next
to discuss the remaining utilities. Hughes stated that out of 39
airspace review items, 13 have come back so far. Hughes stated that
he would like to sit down with the Airport Commission members, or
a subgroup of members, and go over some of these items.
b. Taxi-lane North Tee's - Hughes noted that asphalt prices have risen
dramatically since last summer. He stated that they have put
together some preliminary numbers and looked at some possible
grant money to see what they can cover. He stated that they still
have a shortfall of about $16,000 to $20,000, based on their
estimates. Hughes stated that he feels they are at the point where
they either ask the City for more funds or see what the State may
have. Hartwig stated that he would be in favor of trying to find the
funds and to keep this project going. Horan agreed with this.
(TAPE ENDS) Hughes stated that he could go back to the State and
ask about a relocation of funds to help cover this proj ect. Hartwig
noted that if they are not going to be able to do the entire project,
they need to review their plans. The members agreed to see if they
can find the needed money in-house.
c. ASOS Relocation - Hughes stated that he talked with the FAA
Weather Service and they are in the process of getting this project
gomg.
2
Airport Commission
May 11, 2006
Page 3
d. T -Hangar Floors-
1. Update - Hughes stated that the contractor is done and
everyone is happy with the work. He discussed the
payment schedule briefly with the members. Horan noted
that when these floors were done, holes were not put in the
new flooring for the door pins. Horan stated that he feels
they should not accept this project until this is done. The
members agreed that this should be completed.
11. Consider a resolution accepting the work for the Hangar
B&C Concrete Flooring Project. The Airport Commission
members deferred this the next meeting so they can review
the locking procedure with doors and the new flooring.
C. South Aviation Development - Hartwig and Hughes stated that they are still awaiting
information from the FAA on this.
D. Eastern Iowa Big Kids Toy Show - Tharp noted that this show begins next weekend,
but that other than that he had no news regarding the show.
E. Aviation Commerce Park - Dulek addressed a newspaper article regarding the Wal-
Mart lawsuit. Although the article referred to the judge denying an "appeal," it was
not an appeal but a reconsideration and that the plaintiffs have 30 days from the
reconsideration to file an appeal. Wolf noted that the Wal-Mart developer is moving
ahead aggressively, and that hopefully plans will be finalized shortly.
F. Eastern Iowa Pilot's Association - Kim Brogan-Coleman
a. Current Lease/Operations Agreement Expires May 31, 2006 - Andy
Bockenstedt was present to represent Kim Brogan-Coleman. He
stated that he had a proposal from her for the members. He noted
that she would like to rent the hangar on a month-to-month basis for
$200.00 per month, and that she has talked to Keith at Iowa City
Aircraft Repair about renting space for an office at that location.
Horan asked Bockenstedt when the Airport would be paid for the
current lease, and Tharp noted that she is behind for April's rent and
owes for May. Members asked various questions ofMr.
Bockenstedt regarding this operation. Hartwig noted that he is a bit
disappointed by this situation and he asked Bockenstedt for some
explanation, noting that it is halfway through the month and they are
just now discussing her lease, which expires at the end of the month.
The issue of the $200.00 per month for the hangar space was
discussed at length. Hartwig brought up the signage that Ms.
Coleman put up and stated that it needs to be addressed. Tharp
noted that parking has been an issue, as is the code for the gate
entrance. Rettig asked questions regarding the demolition of this
3
Airport Commission
May 11, 2006
Page 4
building in the future and brought up the topic of not allowing
subleasing at the Airport. She feels the Airport should remain in
control of who is leasing buildings on the property. Hartwig asked
the members how they want to proceed on this. Dulek stated that the
members do need to make some decision and to let Ms. Coleman
know how they plan to proceed, as her lease expires May 31 st.
Members discussed whether or not they should offer an extension to
the current agreement while they further discuss Ms. Coleman's
current proposed agreement. Rettig stated that she would like to
have a total amount that is past due before she moves forward with a
decision, and also wants to address the sublease issue. Hartwig
posed multiple questions to be answered, stating that he does not
have a problem with subleasing, but that he needs answers to some
of these questions first. (TAPE ENDS) Tharp suggested they
discuss a continuance with the lease for now, in order to give the
Commission a chance to discuss this issue. The issue of Ms.
Coleman subleasing was again addressed, with Hartwig stating that
he feels they should be more specific in their requirements. Rettig
stated that she feels they cannot approve a sublease they have not
seen, and she suggested that either the property be vacated in 14
days, or Ms. Coleman presents the Commission with a better
agreement, covering the month-to-month rental. Hartwig stated that
he is in favor of extending the agreement for one month while
continuing negotiations. The Commission members agreed that if
Ms. Coleman is current with her payments as of May 31 st, then she
will be charged $300 and $675 on her two leases, for the month of
June 2006. Horan and Tharp will continue to work on obtaining an
amended agreement with Ms. Coleman.
G. Airport "Operations": Strategic Plan-Implementation; Budget; and Airport
Management - Hartwig asked Tharp to comment on the budget. Tharp fielded some
questions from Horan on some line items. Tharp will look into this for Horan, stating
that he believes the full explanation was cut off on this particular item. Rettig asked
that they have an agenda item regarding management fees and consulting fees. She
would like to understand this better. Hartwig noted that they need to discuss T-
hangars next month as these leases expire in September. Tharp noted that he recently
asked other airports in the area for their fee schedules and he hopes by next month's
meeting to have some information for the Commission members on how their fees
compare with other airports. Hartwig stated that he would like to see what each
hangar costs the Airport in monthly expenses, something that would break down all
of their maintenance expenses. Tharp reported on the heating bill question from last
month's meeting and gave the members some numbers to review regarding how Mid-
American charges them for electricity. Tharp also fielded questions regarding the
individual hangars. Rettig suggested they have some sort of chart that shows what in
each building the Airport pays for and what renters pay for. Rettig asked about a sink
4
Airport Commission
May 11, 2006
Page 5
hole in front ofthe United building, asking if they can put some gravel in the hole for
now and remove the barricades so it looks better. Hartwig mentioned some other
items that he and Tharp have been discussing regarding janitorial service and other
items ofthis nature. The discussion turned to seeing how the Airport can get rid of
old oil and old batteries that have accumulated over the years.
H. Subcommittees' Reports - None.
I. Chairperson's Report - Hartwig stated that he appreciates the offers of help with
respect to his business that was damaged in last month's storm. He also noted that
Dan Clay was planning to announce his resignation at last month's meeting, but since
they were unable to continue the meeting, he was letting everyone know that Dan has
accepted a new job in western Illinois and will not be able to continue.
COMMISSION MEMBERS' REPORTS: Rettig passed around some photos that she
recently took within the City of historic markers and suggested a possible fundraiser for
these. Hartwig then noted that in regards to the viewing area, these signs may fit in well in
this area. Rettig also noted that she is working with Tharp on possibly offering meeting
room rentals at the Airport. Rettig next stated that the local State delegation has been invited
to the Airport for a tour and an overview of the Airport. She will let members know when
this is set up. Rettig noted last that in view oflast month's storm during the meeting, she
suggests they consider having a drill so everyone knows that there is a basement at the
Airport. She suggested that Tharp contact the City's Safety Director to have a plan set up for
the Airport. (TAPE ENDS)
STAFF REPORT: None.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR: June 8, 2006 @ 5:45 P.M.
ADJOURN: Meeting adjourned at 8:03 P.M.
Date
Chairperson
5
Airport Commission
May 11,2006
Page 6
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
IMeetin!! Date)
TEn 1/12 2/9 3/9 4/1 5/1 5/11 6/8
NAME EXP.
Daniel Clay 3/1108 -- --- -- -- --- --
Randy Hartwig 3/1/09 X X X X X X
Greg Farris 3/1107 0 X X X X X
John Staley 3/1106 X X X X X X
Howard Horan 3/1/08 X X X X X X
Janelle Rettig 3/1/12 -- --- X X X X
KEY: X ~ Present
o = Absent
OlE = AbsentfExcused
NM = No meeting
-- ~ Not a Member
6
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
MINUTES - May 9, 2006
FINAUAPPROVED
m:
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Greg Roth called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Candy Barnhill, Elizabeth Engel, Loren Horton, Michael Larson
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Legal Counsel Catherine Pugh and Staff Kellie Tuttle
OTHERS PRESENT: Capt. Tom Widmer of the ICPD and Public, John Kirby
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
None.
CONSENT
CALENDAR
Motion by Horton and seconded by Engel to adopt the consent calendar as
presented or amended.
. Minutes of the meeting on 03/21/06
. ICPD General Order #98-01 (Written Directive System)
. ICPD General Order #99-03 (Prisoner Transport)
. ICPD General Order #99-05 (Use of Force)
. ICPD Use of Force Report - February 2006
. ICPD Use of Force Report - March 2006
. ICPD Department Memo 06-14
. ICPO Quarterly/Summary Report (Quarter 1) - IAIRlPCRB, 2006
Motion carried, 5/0.
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
None.
None.
PUBLIC
DISCUSSION
Kirby inquired about handouts and the consent calendar. Kirby was also
interested in all of his options for filing a complaint and what the guidelines were
to be able to file a complaint.
At this time (7:10pm) a tornado warning was announced and the commission went to the designated tornado
safe area for shelter. The meeting reconvened (7:32pm) with Barnhill absent.
Kirby had several more questions regarding process and alleged allegations.
Pugh and Roth explained to Kirby that in order for the Board to look in to his
complaint, a complaint form would need to be filled out and returned to the City
Clerk's office. Kirby was supplied with a complaint form and a copy of Title 8,
Chapter 8 of the City Code.
PCRB
May 9, 2006
Page 2
BOARD
INFORMATION
STAFF
INFORMATION
EXECUTIVE
SESSION
REGULAR
SESSION
None.
None.
Motion by Engel and seconded by Larson to adjourn into Executive Session
based on Section 21.5(1 )(a) of the Code of Iowa to review or discuss records
which are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential or
to be kept confidential as a condition for that government body's possession or
continued receipt of federal funds, and 22.7(11) personal information in
confidential personnel records of public bodies including but not limited to cities,
boards of supervisors and school districts, and 22-7(5) police officer investigative
reports, except where disclosure is authorized elsewhere in the Code; and
22.7(18) Communications not required by law, rule or procedure that are made to
a government body or to any of its employees by identified persons outside of
government, to the extent that the government body receiving those
communications from such persons outside of government could reasonably
believe that those persons would be discouraged from making them to that
government body if they were available for general public examination.
Motion carried, 4/0, Barnhill absent. Open session adjourned at 7:43 P.M.
Returned to open session at 7:52 P.M.
Motion by Horton and seconded by Engel to set the level of review for PCRB
Complaint #06-01 to 8-8-7 (B)(1 )(a), on the record with no additional
investigation. Motion carried, 4/0, Barnhill absent.
Motion by Horton and seconded by Larson to request a 30 day extension for
PCRB Complaint #06-01 due to timelines and scheduling. Motion carried, 4/0,
Barnhill absent.
MEETING SCHEDULE
. June 13, 2006, 7:00 P.M., Lobby Conference Room
. July 11, 2006, 7:00 P.M., Lobby Conference Room
. August 8, 2006, 7:00 P.M., Lobby Conference Room
. September 12, 2006, 7:00 P.M., Lobby Conference Room
Larson will possibly be gone for the June meeting.
ADJOURNMENT Motion for adjournment by Horton and seconded by Larson. Motion carried, 4/0,
Barnhill absent. Meeting adjourned at 7:55 P.M.
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
(Meetinl( Date) !
i
TERM 1110 2/14 3/21 4/11 5/9
NAME EXP.
Candy 9/1107 X X X NM X
Barnhill I
Elizabeth 9/1108 X OlE X NM X I
I
Engel I
9/1/08 X i
Loren X X X NM I
Horton I
Greg Roth 9/1109 X X X NM X I
,
I
Michael 9/1109 X OlE X NM X I
I
Larson
I
I
I
I
KEY: X = Present
o = Absent
OlE = AbsentlExcused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member I
c::
MINUTES
City of Iowa City Civil Service Commission
June 7, 2006 - 9:00AM
Emma Harvat Hall - City Hall
Call to Order:
Meeting called to order at 9:00AM.
Members Present:
Lyra Dickerson, William Cook, Dorothy Maher
Members Absent:
None
Staff Present:
Sylvia Mejia, Karen Jennings, Fire Chief Andy Rocca, Sarah
Holecek
Others Present:
Roger Knight, William Roemerman, Eric Nurnberg
Recommendations to Council (become effective only after separate Council action): None
Approval of Minutes/Consent Calendar:
Dickerson opened the public appeal hearing in the matter of the termination of Firefighter
Roger Knight at 9:00AM. The proceedings were recorded and a written transcript of the
hearing is available in the City ofIowa City Personnel office.
The hearing portion ofthe meeting concluded at 9:25AM. Deliberations were conducted
in open session. Upon conclusion of deliberations, the hearing was reopened at 9:31AM.
The Commission found that because the possession of an EMT - B certification is a
requirement for the position of Firefighter and Roger Knight does not possess EMT-B
certification, he does not meet the requirements for the position. The Commission
unanimously upheld the termination of Firefighter Knight. Commissioners instructed
Mejia to prepare a written Findings of Fact and Decision on Appeal for their signatures.
Commissioner Cook moved to adjourn, Commissioner Maher seconded and meeting
adjourned at 9:32 AM.
BEFORE THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
IN AND FOR THE CITY OF IOWA CITY, IOWA
IN THE MATTER OF )
FIREFIGHTER ROGER KNIGHT, SR.. ) FINDINGS OF FACT
) and
Appellant, ) DECISION ON APPEAL
) 1'"'-.,:
) 0 ,=
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CITY OF IOWA CITY; IOWA CITY ) ::;>=-! ~ Il
FIRE DEPARTMENT; AND ) '.
'--'
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ANDREW ROCCA, CHIEF ) 'il
: !
) ~ r~
C) ..b. \....J
Appellees. ) -0;;: en
5> .::-
-.I
On May 8. 2006 Fire Chief Andrew Rocca terminated the employment of Firefighter Roger
Knight, Sr. for failure to maintain his Emergency Medical Technician - B certification, a job
requirement for the position of firefighter. The City filed a Specification of Charges on May 23,
2006.
The Civil Service Commission for the City of Iowa City met and heard evidence on the appeal
on June 7, 2006. First Assistant City Attorney Sarah Holecek represented the City and Chief
Rocca. Attorney William Roemerman represented Firefighter Knight. Witness for the City was
Chief Andrew Rocca. There were no witnesses for Firefighter Knight.
FINDINGS OF FACT
On June 7. 2006 the Commission met for deliberations and found the following:
Firefighters are required to possess and maintain an EMT-B certification as a job requirement.
Firefighter Knight's certification as an EMT-B was revoked by the Iowa Department of Public
Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, effective April 27, 2006. Firefighter Knight does
not meet the requirements of the position.
DECISION
Based on these Findings of Fact we hereby uphold the discharge of Firefighter Knight by Chief
Rocca.
:t.Lo. w :DJ~
Lyr43 Dickerson, Chairperson
6(,090(,
Date
~~ \(\ \(1(\00-<
h/1L' ~ Clz
William Cook
oln\?-.o0
Date
O&/!3l:<ooc,
Date'
humanrellroger knight.doc
Board/Commission: Civil Service Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
(Meeting Date)
NAME TERM 02/09106 3/22/2006 5/26/2006 6/7/2006
EXPIRES
Lyra Dickerson 4/5/10 X OlE X X
Dorothy Maher 4/7/08 X X X X
Bill Cook 4/6/09 X X X X
KEY: X = Present
0 - Absent
OlE = Absent/Excused
NM = No Meeting
... = Not a Member
.
MINUTES
IOWA CITY PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, APRIL 6,2006
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
~
~
APPROVED
Members Present:
Emily Carter-Walsh, Charles Felling, Rick Fosse, Emily Martin, Mark Seabold,
Terry Trueblood, DaLayne Williamson
NONE
Members Absent:
Staff Present:
Karin Franklin, Marcia Klingaman
Others Present: NONE
CALL TO ORDER
Seabold called the meeting to order at 3:34 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
NONE
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 2, 2006 MEETING
MOTION: Felling moved to accept the March 2, 2006 minutes as submitted. Martin seconded the
motion. The motion passed on a vote of 7:0.
RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL:
That the City Council approve the installation of The Muse on the Iowa Sculptors Showcase pad
downtown in time for Arts Fest; 7-0.
DISCUSSION OF POTENTIAL PUBLIC ART PROJECTS:
ROUNDABOUT ON GRAND AND SOUTH GRAND
Fosse reviewed the plan for a roundabout on Grand and South Grand. He noted they will put a
roundabout to make that intersection work better. He added that there will be an empty spot in the middle
which could be a potential site for public art. However, Fosse said that the roundabout needs to fulfill the
traffic functions, and the art should not be distracting.
Fosse said they are in the process of deciding whether to work with a landscape architect or initiate a
public art project for that space. Franklin said that some communities have incorporated the artist from the
beginning of the project to work with the design engineer. Fosse said that he heard about this process for
the design of buildings. Franklin said that it is important that the artist have experience in working with an
engineer.
Fosse said it would be preferable to have something in place at the time of opening of the roundabout
which is projected for Fall 2006. He added the University was fairly ambivalent about what will go there.
Franklin said that for the fiscal year FY07 there is $65,000 available. She said that the difference between
the allocation and everything that has been done or planned is $10,675 to the good. She added that this
project might be done in the next fiscal year if it were a collaborative project with the University.
Fosse asked for some contacts from the University. Seabold indicated his firm had been doing some work
on the University projects in the area and he could get a University contact for the project. Martin asked if
the money for FY07 is already tied up. Franklin said there is $10,675 available. Franklin said that the rest
of the money is set aside for Birds in Flight, the Wetherby friends and neighbors' project at Wetherby
Park, and the Melrose neighborhood project.
BURLINGTON STREET MEDIAN
Franklin said the City is in the midst of concept-planning for a median on Burlington Street. She said that
one of the concepts is to have an entrypiece at either end of the corridor. She said that as one comes
across from the Burlington Street bridge going eastbound the median will start just after the railroad
tracks and at each of intersection with the cross streets it tapers down to provide left turn lanes. She said
that in fact if taking the whole corridor from the river to Gilbert Street there will be a continuous median, if
the proposal goes forward, which will fatten out in the places were possible. Franklin said that in places
where it needs to be a left turn lane the median will be 4 foot wide, but in other places it can be up to 12
feet wide. She noted that at the point of beginning the median is wide enough to accommodate some
landscaping and possibly an art project.
Iowa City Public Art Advisory Committee Minutes
April 6, 2006
Page 2
Franklin said the consultant had proposed some projects that had Iowa City written on them. She added
that Iowa DOT is disinclined to have anything with names written on them.
Franklin indicated the median project is now scheduled for FY09. The committee decided to keep an eye
on this project for public art possibilities.
CONSIDERATION OF SCULPTURE FOR THE DOWNTOWN SCULPTORS' SHOWCASE.
Klingaman said there was no response to the call the Downtown Showcase. She added that they started
the program 3 years ago. She said that she contacted Gene Anderson, who had been scheduled to
display his work there before the library project eliminated the pad for a while, and Gene was very excited
to submit a sculpture. The sculpture is tilled The Muse [Ed. The name of the sculpture was subsequently
changed by the artist to A Muse]. Klingaman presented some pictures of the proposed sculpture.
Carter-Walsh asked how big the sculpture is. Klingaman said that it is about 5 feet tall, but it will be
placed on a pedestal. She said that it will be more intimate than the Politically Purple sculpture.
Martin asked how the scuipture will be attached to the pedestal. Klingaman said there is a hollow metal
pipe to secure it together.
Fosse asked what the material was.. Klingaman said the sculpture is made out of poured concrete.
Franklin said the artist has been asked to coat the sculpture with a protective coating that is easy to
clean.
MOTION: Martin moved to recommend to the City Council to approve the installation of "The
Muse" prior to the Art Festival. Fosse seconded the motion, The motion passed on a vote of 7:0,
COMMITTEE TIME/OTHER BUSINESS/UPDATES
Franklin said that Klingaman will coordinate the moving of "Ties that Bind" to be placed on a pad between
the Plaza Towers and the Public Library.
Klingaman said that the first "North side Houses" street sign was installed. She said there were many
discussions about how to best secure the signs. She added they ended up having the bracket that sits on
the top of the post welded to the post on both sides. Klingaman said that the first signage was installed on
the corner of Jefferson and Van Buren. Klingaman said the signage is bigger than the "Geese" and much
more obvious. Klingaman said that in Goosetown they had one sign stolen, and a second one was
attempted to be stolen.
Klingaman said that "Program for Recognition of Art in Non-Public Spaces" was approved by the Council.
She said that the deadline is April 30th.
Klingaman said that "Just for Kicks" will be installed next week. She noted that the City Council is
interested in what happens at the Soccer Park and Sycamore area. Martin asked. when "Birds in Flight"
will be installed. Kiingaman said that it will be installed on August 1". Martin said that they should have an
opening for both, "Just for Kicks" and "Birds in Flight", projects in the same day since they are both
located in the same area. Trueblood added that the best time for dedication would be Saturday morning
when there are soccer games at the Soccer Park.
Klingaman said that the Student Artist Showcase Pedestal initiative did not receive any art submissions.
She noted they sent information to students and instructors. She added that they had the pad installed.
She said there will be a dedication ceremon~ for the pedestrian crossing on the Iowa Power Dam Bridge.
Fosse noted that was scheduled for May 13 or 20'h. Franklin said that for the dedication, the committee
might consider having a human statue on the pedestal if no student art will be submitted. Franklin said
she talked with a Journalism student who is hoping to publish an article about the public art program and
the Student Artist Showcase Pedestal.
Seabold said that he redid the public art map. He noted the map is not in its final format and needs more
specific locations of the public art. Franklin said that if the map will be placed in a kiosk downtown it might
be easier to have an address for people to know where and how to get to the location of the public art.
Iowa City Public Art Advisory Committee Minutes
April 6, 2006
Page 3
Franklin said that in addition to the big map placed in a kiosk downtown they could have a foid-up map
with the map of the city on one side with keys, and on the other side have images of the projects
correlated with the keys presented on the city map.
Martin indicated she will not attend the next meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 4:35 PM.
s:/pcdlminutesfpublicartl2OO6104.Q6-06.doc.
I
Public Art Advisory Committee
Attendance Record
2006
Term
Name Exoires 1/05 2/2 3/2 4/6
Emilv Carter Walsh 01/01/08 OlE X OlE X
Charles Fellina 01/01/09 X X X X
DaLavne Williamson 01/01/09 X X X X
Emily Martin 01/01/08 X OlE X X
Mark Seabold 01/01/07 X X X X
Rick Fosse X X OlE X
Terry Trueblood X X X X
Key:
X = Present
0 = Absent
OlE = Absent/Excused
,....
U2!1QL
FINAL
APRIL 2006
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
APRI L 18, 2006
G08/9- SENIOR CENTER
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 3:00 PM
Members Present: Betty Kelly, Bob Engel, David Gould, Jay Honohan, Jo Hensch,
Sarah Maiers and Nancy Wombacher
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Michelle Buhman and Linda Kopping
Others Present: Lori Benz, Julie Bobbit, and Lynn Campbell
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion: To approve the March minutes as amended. Motion carried on a vote of 7.
O. Kelly/Maiers.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS
Wombacher will write the article from this months meeting. Hensch will go to the Board
of Supervisors meeting. Honohan will go to the City Council meeting. Engel will write the
article from the May meeting. Engel will also attend the Board of Supervisors and City
Council meetings to report on the May meeting.
PLANNING FOR VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION - Kopping
The Volunteer Recognition is typically held in June. Kelly, Gould and Maiers
volunteered to work on this event.
STANDING COMMITTEE STATUS REPORT- Kopping
The committees have set-up meeting dates as follows:
)0 Promotion Committee, Friday April 21 at2 PM.
)0 Fundraising Committee, May 5 at10 AM
)0 Community Relations and Outreach Meeting, April 24 at 11 AM.
FINAL
APRIL 2006
OPERATIONAL REVIEW-Kopping
Commissioners reviewed the staff reports that were included in the packet. Maiers asked
why the membership numbers had decreased. Staff responded that they are working on
developing a method to contact people to find out why they do not renew their
membership.
Commissioners expressed excitement about Senior Center Television Studio streaming
video program and the article in the Press Citizen about the project.
The tornado that hit the Iowa City area on April 13, 2006 damaged the Senior Center
roof and some window screens. Staff is working with City Engineers to assess the full
extent of the damage and repair the effected areas.
The Senior Center and University of Iowa's Center on Aging are working together to
write a grant though the Bernard Osher Foundation. Lori Benz, Program Associate at
the Center on Aging, outlined the project for the commission. A summary of her
presentation is available at the Senior Center's Reception Desk.
Engel expressed his enthusiasm about this program and concern about the increased
workload on the staff. Kopping believed this project would allow the senior center to
expand and improve ongoing programs with a slight decrease in single day events.
Gould asked if this program would be a duplication of another project currently being
pursued by the center and another department at the University of Iowa. Kopping
thought that these two programs could be integrated into one program. If the grant is
awarded all classes offered at the Center will fall under the umbrella of the Osher
Lifelong Learning Institute. Each class will be offered to community members 50 and
over regardless membership and charged an enrollment fee. Center members will
receive a discount and classes will be set-up so they are more affordable for low income
seniors.
25th Anniversary Planning
The 25th Anniversary Planning Committee is scheduling events to celebrate the 25th
Anniversary of Senior Center during the month of September.
The Committee suggested a rededication of the Center be held on Aug. 31, 2006.
Commissioners were asked to help plan the rededication event. Honohan, Wombacher,
and Kelly volunteered to help the 25'h Anniversary Committee.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
The May Commission meeting date and time has changed. The meeting will be held on
May 23 at 5 PM.
Wombacher invited Commissioners to attend the Generations of Jazz scheduled for
May, 12 in the Center's Assernbly Room. The event will feature the West Branch High
School Jazz Band, a local band called Spontaneous Combustion, and the Senior
Center's Silver Swing Band.
Motion: To adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 7-0. Wombacher/Kelly.
2
FINAL
APRIL 2006
Senior Center Commission
Attendance Record
Year 2006
Name Term 1/24 2/21 3/21 4/18
Exoires
Bob Enael 12/31/08 X X X X
David Gould 12/31/08 X X X X
Jo Hensch 12/31/06 X X X X
Jay Honohan 12/31/07 X X X X
Bettv Kelly 12/31/07 X OlE X X
Sarah Maier 12/31/06 X X X X
Nancy Wombacher 12/31/06 OlE OlE X X
Key:
X=
0=
O/E=
NM=
Present
Absent
Absent/Excused
No meeting
Not a member
3
('3~) 1
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 18, 2006
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Michael Brennan, Richard Carlson, Michael Gunn, Michael
Maharry, Tim Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Jim Ponto
STAFF PRESENT: Sunil Terdalkar
OTHERS PRESENT: Heien Burford, James Niebuhr
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Weitzel called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION:
Certificate of Appropriateness:
815 East Washinqton Street. Terdalkar stated that this property is a contributing structure in the College
Hill Conservation District. He said the application is to replace windows; replace aluminum siding on the
existing additions in the back; replace some of the metal capping on the Tudor Revival style wood
patterns for the, prominently on the west side; gable the eaves on the west side; and add some roof
shingles. Terdalkar said the proposal is to replace the windows with vinyl windows. Niebuhr said the
plan is to just replace what was there before the tornado.
Terdalkar said the owner would also replace the aluminum storm windows. He said that the siding to be
replaced is on an addition to the original structure. Terdalkar said that siding one side was blown away
entirely, and on all other sides, it was damaged.
Niebuhr said the siding contractor quoted what he considered to be a better product than aluminum, a
higher grade vinyl. He said that this is on the addition to the back side of the structure, where all the
aluminum siding had a lot of damage. Niebuhr said that a lot of the siding is dented, and where it's not
dented, it's loose and bagging.
Niebuhr said that in between the buildings on the west gable, the brick veneer from the apartment
building about nine feet away collapsed onto the windows on the west gable, affecting both the first and
second story windows. He added that the area of siding there is completely missing.
Niebuhr said the sider proposed putting back a premium grade vinyl. He said the salesman said it would
be more cost effective for the owners and would not fade or dent the way aluminum does. Niebuhr said
the sider's proposal was to strip all the aluminum siding off, reusing some of it to fit in on some of the
dormers and higher areas.
Gunn asked what is underneath the siding. Niebuhr said he believes it is wood lap siding.
Terdalkar said this is a contributing structure and is also an individually eligible National Register property
for architectural integrity. He said that when it was surveyed, the architecture was more intact; there was
some work done in 2003. Terdalkar said the applicant believes all the windows were replaced around
that time.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 18, 2006
Page 2
Weitzel asked if the proposed windows would be aluminum clad wood or just aiuminum. Niebuhr said
that they would be vinyl windows. He said it is the same as what was installed about three years ago.
Niebuhr said the windows were installed under permit, so the windows that have been ordered as
replacements are exactly what were there. Terdalkar said the work was done before this property was in
a conservation district.
Weitzel said the guidelines do not allow vinyl windows. Niebuhr said he talked with the sorority's alumni
advisor during the week after the tornado. Niebuhr said that discussion involved what to do to just get up
and running. He said that a week later, they met with the insurance adjuster to survey the extent of the
damages. Niebuhr said that shortly after that meeting, he talked to the Building Department and went
over the list and asked what a permit would be needed for. He said the Building Department toid him he
would probably need a permit for the windows. Niebuhr explained that he would probably be putting back
in what existed before the storm. He said the person asked him if it was done under permit, and he
confirmed this. Niebuhr said the person explained to him that if the same window went back in, it should
be no problem, and it could probably be handled with a certificate of no material effect.
Maharry asked for the name of the Building Department official. Niebuhr did not know but said the person
did not necessarily render an opinion but said she did not believe that he would need more than a review
by a couple of Commission members.
Gunn asked how many windows were ordered based on that information. Niebuhr said that 34 windows
would be replaced. Brennan said he believes that the Act of God provision allows restoration of the
condition the building was in prior to the storm, which would be a Building Department issue and not for
the Commission to decide.
Weitzel said that if the Building Department gave Niebuhr the impression that it would be okay to put back
what was already there, the Commission would probabiy have to be bound by that. Maharry said the
Building Department may have made a very big assumption that these were historic windows that were
actually blown out, but they were not. Niebuhr agreed that he did not explain that he was replacing vinyl
windows, because at the time he was not aware that they were vinyl windows. He said he simply stated
that the plans were to replace what existed before the storm, and all these windows were replaced only
three years ago.
Weitzel said the real question is whether the Commission can change what was done by a storm or if the
storm is a special circumstance that automatically grants an exception. Regarding vinyl, Weitzel said that
it is not really inherently more durable than aluminum. He said that it doesn't dent, but it breaks, and the
plastic fractures. Niebuhr agreed and said that there are UV effects on the vinyl as well and said it
becomes brittle.
Weitzel asked if the owner would be amenable to repairing the wood underneath the aluminum. Niebuhr
said that was possible. He said that on the west gable, which is original, someone came through with
brown coil stock and vented around the gable. Niebuhr said that the battens and the corner pieces were
capped with bent coil stock. He suggested taking those off and said that underneath, he beiieves there is
the original Tudor board with stucco. Niebuhr said it will need some prep and stain or paint.
Niebuhr said the crown cornice at the rake, the small overhang, has the angled piece of aluminum over it.
He said he would take that out. Niebuhr said he did not know the condition of that, aithough he talked to
the roofer, who said that there is a crown-type cornice. Niebuhr proposed taking the aluminum off that
rake and then putting that back. He said if it is damaged, he would just prefabricate something to match
exactly. Niebuhr said the plan is then to put back that west gable to the wood.
Niebuhr said that on the additions where the siding was dented and pulled loose, that would be repaired.
He said that on the front of the building, he believes the upper Tudor stucco battens are still all wood.
Niebuhr said he would duplicate that on the west gable.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 18, 2006
Page 3
Regarding the additions on the back, Niebuhr stated that they were sided over with aluminum at some
point. He said that when he first heard the conservation district issue being discussed, he was under the
impression that the concern was more about what is seen from the street. Niebuhr said that one really
can't see any of those additions. Weitzel said there was some discussion about the concern being the
street fa"ade, but ultimately the Commission went back to the Secretary of the Interior Standards, which
do not distinguish frontages.
Maharry said that the sorority must have had a good adjustment, because putting aluminum back up
there would be expensive, and that's what they were insured for. He stated that fiber cement board or
repairing would save them money. Weitzel agreed that it might be a lot cheaper to repair, with a really
high quality paint job.
Niebuhr said he would bring that up to the adjuster, who is still in the process of working on the claim.
He said the insurance adjuster asked him for an estimate. Niebuhr said that the adjuster also was waiting
for the house to be unoccupied before he would be able to make a full adjustment. He said he will peel
off the siding to see if he can get a cost analysis.
Weitzel asked Niebuhr if he was looking for a certificate now or if he would like to come back with a full
cost analysis. Niebuhr said he needs to get something in motion, because the sorority really would like to
have the work done by rush week in August. Weitzel said the Commission would not be worried about
the interior. He said that unless Niebuhr thinks he will find something that changes things on the outside,
the Commission can grant a certificate of approval, as the conditions are currently understood. Weitzel
said that if things change, Niebuhr could come back to the Commission again. Niebuhr said that would
be fine and would help him get started.
Niebuhr said he currently has a call in to the House Corporation President to get an answer from the
insurance company regarding a non-conforming clause and if there is coverage on any of this. Niebuhr
said he did not know if they had coverage for putting back anything that wasn't there before the storm.
Maharry said the cost of aluminum would be prohibitive, so he thought they would be eager to use fiber
cement board or repair the wood underneath. Gunn said there have been cases in which the
Commission has said it should be fiber cement board or the wood should be repaired, and that has
prompted the insurance company to go along with that as part of the repair.
Weitzel pointed out that the Johnson County Bar Association is currently working with applicants to
ensure that they get fair settlements from insurance.
Gunn stated that the Commission has been meeting every week and will do so as long as there are
storm-related issues to deal with. He said the Commission could make a motion regarding repairing the
wood or fiber cement board. Gunn said that by the time the insurance company responds, the
Commission will have another meeting in the near future. He said there is normally hesitation on the part
of the Commission to approve vinyl siding.
Niebuhr said he does not know where the insurance company stands on any of this. He said he is simply
representing the sorority house right now in trying to work through it as quickly as possible. Niebuhr
asked what specifically the Commission would like to know before granting approval on the siding of the
add ition.
MOTION: Gunn moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the plans for 815 East
Washington Street to include repair of the trim; replacement of the windows with vinyl windows
comparable to the windows that were there before, referencing the non-conforming clause
regarding Act of God damage; the repair of the wood siding that is there; and the application of
fiber cement board. Brennan seconded the motion.
Gunn said it seems that the Act of God provision gives owners the right to rebuild, regardless of the
extent of the damage, even a key property in a conservation district as it was prior to the storm damage.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 18, 2006
Page 4
Weitzel said it is an exception for something the owner had no control over. Brennan said that, as he
reads the provision, the first provision is that if the damage is less than 75% of the value, the owner can
restore it to the way it was, regardless of what the zoning code says now. He said the second stipulation
is that if the damage is more than 75% of the value, the owner can restore it, but only in compliance with
the zoning code so that the owner would have to bring it up to code. Brennan said the third part allows a
building with a historic designation to be re-constructed on its original foundation regardless of the current
zoning code requirements.
Maharry asked why the Commission is then reviewing applications. Gunn said this applies only under
certain conditions. Maharry replied that all of the applications reviewed in the last few weeks have been
under these conditions in that they have been damaged to 75% or less of their value and can therefore do
what they want. Maharry said the owners can put the building back to what it was before. Weitzel said
the Commission still needs to review whether the materials are appropriate.
. Gunn said the Act of God provision seems pretty clear. Carlson said then that the vinyl windows and
aluminum siding would be permissible, but changing aluminum for vinyl siding would not be permissible,
because vinyl is not an existing material and is strictly forbidden in the guidelines. Maharry said that the
motion is consistent with this.
Carlson said the motion didn't include replacing the aluminum. Brennan said it failed to mention that it
couid be replaced with aluminum. Gunn said he left that out, because the Commission would rather see
the wood repaired and rather see fiber cement board as a replacement material. He said that if the
certificate is approved that way, then the insurance company may okay this with the wood repair and fiber
cement board.
Maharry said that aluminum would be more expensive than fiber cement board. Weitzel commented that
it might not be when the labor costs are included. Niebuhr said that the installation of fiber cement board
wouid be more expensive than aiuminum, because painting adds cost and the labor is more expensive.
He said that even the pre painted fiber cement board shouid have at least one coat of paint.
Terdaikar asked, if the owner can use vinyl windows, why they can't use aluminum siding because both
are exiting materials. Commission members responded that he can. Terdalkar said then that this could
receive a certificate of no material effect. Weitzel said that the HIS person was therefore correct.
Weitzel asked Niebuhr if the motion was acceptable to him or if he needed more latitude. Niebuhr said
that in terms of scheduling, the windows are more important than the siding, although he did not know
how much he could speak for the owners. Weitzel said the Commission could vote on the motion, and if
it turns out the owner wants the aluminum, that could be done through a certificate of no material effect by
chair and staff.
Terdalkar asked if the Commission would need to vote on windows, because the proposal is to take off
the coil stock. Gunn said he assumed that part of the motion was to repair the trim, without the coil stock.
Niebuhr said he would like to see the coil stock off the west gable.
Regarding the windows and the sashes, Terdalkar said that all of them have the coil stock. He said that if
the metal capping for 34 of them is removed, for consistency, the applicant might have to remove all of
them. Terdalkar said the motion is to replace the windows without the coil stock capping. He said the
applicant might therefore want to remove the coil stock above all the windows, because it would look
unusual to have some capped and some not capped.
Niebuhr said that what is there now is vinyl, with aluminum capping on the exterior, and the person who
did the capping did a good job. He said that the job is only three years old, and he thought the Act of God
provision would apply. Niebuhr said the original rough openings were not changed, and the
configurations remain essentially the same, except for the difference between double hung and
casements for egress purposes. He said it would probably not be well received by the owner to have to
do a different application on the windows.
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May 18, 2006
Page 5
Gunn said that all has to come off anyway to replace the windows. Niebuhr said he believed so. Gunn
said that he would have to put something back, and the issue is what goes back. Niebuhr said his
answer would be that what was there before would go back. He said that of the 40 or so windows on the
property, there is virtually no window that did not show evidence of being hit by something.
Gunn said that what has to go back wouid either be a board and paint or a board and cladding with coil
stock. Niebuhr stated that these are replacement windows and are good vinyl replacement windows. He
said that the existing original wood box, frame, sash, and everything were removed from the masonry
opening, and probably a dimension lumber frame was put around. Niebuhr said the inserts go in, and
then on the exterior there is aluminum ciadding.
Terdaikar said that some kind of frame was buiit in front of the window frame inside and then the boxed
out frame was capped over with metal. Niebuhr said he didn't install the windows, but it appears that
there was an attempt to duplicate the look of what had been there in wood before. He said they were
apparently ordered with the same number of sash openings, the inserts went in, and then the aluminum
cladding was applied on the exterior.
Gunn said that if the trim is all deteriorated, then putting on coil stock is probably the cheapest and
easiest way to fix it. He questioned, however, if it all comes out, is it necessarily the only reasonable way
for it to go back. Gunn asked if it is really more expensive to put on a trim board and paint it than to wrap
it around. He said it has to be boxed out or trimmed or something. Gunn said it depends on what is
under there, but it does not strike him as necessarily a whole lot cheaper to make it look like a cheap
repair job, as opposed to a new window. Niebuhr said that in his opinion, whoever installed the windows
did a pretty good job.
Maharry said the applicant can actually put up what was there before. He said the Commission can
encourage the applicant not to but could not require him to do something that wasn't there before.
Niebuhr said that in removing what was there before in the way of aluminum on the west gable, it would
still be more expensive to put back any kind of wood. He said in redoing the gable side, the costs would
be about an even exchange; he did not think it would be that much extra to do it back to the painted wood
and expose the crown, especially the crown corners, instead of just the straight lines of the clad aluminum
there at the roofing.
Weitzel asked if the Commission wanted to amend the motion to specify that the coil stock to be removed
is specifically on the half timbering, as opposed to all trim. Gunn said that is what he intended when he
made the motion.
The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
Discussion of 17 South Governor Street Storm Damaoe.
Weitzel said that this is not just related to storm damage but is the lack of any activity to try to protect the
building after the storm damage. He said there has been rainwater through the roof, and the upper
windows are open. Weitzel said this discussion is being initiated the Commission.
Weitzel said the concern is that it's known that the owner doesn't necessarily want to preserve this
building or maintain it. Terdalkar said the caretaker of the structure has applied for a building permit to
demolish it. He said the caretaker has not applied to the Commission as of yet, but the building permit for
demolition is on hold pending the Commission's decision.
Terdalkar said the owner apparently doesn't want to preserve the building or even stabilize it, as it has
been stabilized only the first floor. He said the basement windows are open all around. Terdalkar said
the turret roof was destroyed, but there is no tarp over the turret. He said that he believes that more
stabilization work is needed than what has been done. Terdalkar said that lack of stabilization would lead
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May 18, 2006
Page 6
to more damage. In future, if a request for demolition is not granted, the structure may not be in a
condition to be restored very easily.
Carlson asked if there was a structural assessment. Terdalkar said the City is trying to gain access to the
structure. He said the City is willing to bring in a structural expert to go through the building. Terdalkar
said there has already been a survey done on the outside with the structural expert. who has given a
proposal as to how much it would cost to give a structural report. He said the City now just needs access
to the structure to get in and do a proper survey. Weitzel said there could probably be an application to
the State technical advisory network for that.
Weitzel said Terdalkar informed him that the original interpretation was that the landowner said there was
termite damage so that the building would have to be torn down. Weitzel said there was no strong
evidence of termite damage, and furthermore, a building with termite damage could be repaired. He said
the case being made indicates that the owner simply doesn't want to have this property any more and
would like to tear it down to build something that would probably be larger. Weitzel said that the building
is currently over capacity, and he did not believe the same number of individuals could go back in,
because the building would probably lose its grandfathered in status.
Maharry said he believed there could be seven units, based on the lot size, as long as adequate parking
is provided. Weitzel said this is a narrow lot and might be too narrow to allow decent subterranean
parking because of the ramps that would be needed to get down in there.
Maharryasked if the plan is to initiate something to HIS to go out there and inspect the house and tell the
owner what to do to seal up the house. Terdalkar said that there are two or three ways to go ahead and
get access to the structure. He said that if the owner doesn't allow access, the City might initiate this, so
a petition should be made to HIS to initiate an investigation.
Maharry asked if it would be necessary to get inside the house to get HIS to review it. He said that to
stabilize the house right now, the windows need to be covered and the roof needs to be covered with
tarps. T erdalkar said that the Commission can request for an investigation or structure review from inside
to see if the building is or is not beyond repair. Weitzel said he thought the discussion was to be about
demolition by neglect. Terdaikar said this is consideration of both things.
Weitzel said that if City staff wants the Commission to ask the owners to allow access to the building in
order to review its integrity, that is different from demolition by neglect. Terdalkar said that the process for
prevention of demolition by neglect needs to be initiated, and the Commission can request HIS to start
the process. Maharry said that involves putting a tarp on the roof and boarding the windows; the inside
doesn't need to be accessed for that. He said the Commission just needs to tell the owner to seal up his
building. Maharry said if the owner wants to provide evidence that the building is structurally unsound, he
can do that.
Terdalkar said the opinion in the planning office is that the process should be more proactive, because
staff suspects that the owner doesn't want to keep the building. He said that if the assessment is done,
there could be evidence that the building is structurally sound and doesn't need to be demolished.
Weitzel said the City can pursue that without asking the Commission to request that the owner let the City
into its building. He said the Commission doesn't have the authority to require someone to give access to
his property. Brennan said the question would go to whether the Commission would approve a
demolition permit. Weitzel agreed and said that is a different issue.
Maharry said perhaps the City staff wants the Commission to be proactive, because they are worried the
owner will go into the building and make the building unstable. Weitzel said the Commission could offer
some sort of resolution about the demolition of this building and whether or not it should be pursued.
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May 18, 2006
Page 7
Maharry said that if the owner applied for a demolition permit, he did not know what the City or
Commission could do to provide evidence either way. He said that obviously the owner would need to
provide evidence to have the demolition approved.
Terdalkar said this is a contributing structure. Weitzel said that it is probably the Thomas MacBride
House, so it probably has landmark potential. Terdalkar said there are two opinions about this issue: one
says this is the MacBride House and the other says the sorority house next door is the MacBride House.
Weitzel said that Keyes thought this building was the MacBride House. Carlson said that the sorority is
an older house, and this later house was built in the 1890s.
Gunn said that if the owner wants to demolish the house, he has to demonstrate that it is structurally
unsound and irretrievable. Terdalkar said there is a hold on the building permit by the Building
Department. He said that unless the owner applies to the Commission and gets approval, the permit will
not be issued. Maharry said it appears that the owner is waiting for the house to fall down on its own.
Terdalkar said that is why staff wants to make sure the house is stabilized.
MOTION: Maharry moved that the Commission file a petition with the Building Official requesting
investigation of the building at 17 South Governor that is suspected of neglect or deterioration
according to the standards of 14.3B.7 A. Carlson seconded the motion.
Brennan asks if, in the interests of consistency, 5t. Patrick's Church is eligible for National Register listing.
Terdalkar confirmed this and said that the Commission could also look at that. Brennan said that
because it is not in a district, the church could apply for a demolition permit, and there is nothing the
Commission could do about that. Terdaikar said that the sorority also has not done anything to stabilize
that structure.
Gunn asked who suggested the Commission look into this. Terdalkar replied that planning staff was
concerned about this. Gunn said that he would vote against the motion, because he did not feel this was
demolition by neglect. He said it does not fall under decay or deterioration. Gunn said that if the owner
wants to tear this down, he has to come before the Commission anyway for a decision. He said he did
not think the Commission should reach this far into something that was written for something totally
different and invoke it for this case.
Carlson said he is not convinced, because he believes that a month after the tornado, there should at
least be tarps over the roof to prevent water damage. He said he believes that is demolition by neglect.
Gunn said that, given the amount of rain we've had, the damage is already done inside. Burford asked if
there is a way to direct this so that there would be an opportunity for the City to take possession of the
house. Maharry said there is not.
Gunn said this discussion should be based on a demolition permit. He stated that he did not think the
owner would let the building sit like this for ten years; he has already applied for a demolition permit,
which is the issue to be resolved. Gunn said that if in the coming weeks the owner has still not applied,
the Commission might do something else.
Weitzel said that from that perspective, if the owner plans to demolish the house, why would he put a tarp
on the roof. He said he believes the owner is being consistent with his intent. Weitzel said the
Commission has to review whether or not what the owner is doing is demolition by neglect. Terdalkar
said in view of the fact that the Commission reviews the certificates based on whether the building is
structurally sound or not, by making it structurally unsound, the owner is forcing the situation on the
Commission to say that this is not something that is reparable.
Weitzel said the key thing is that the owner has applied for a demolition permit but has not followed up
with the necessary paperwork to get that carried out. Terdalkar said that when the owner submitted the
application for a permit about two weeks prior, he also took an application for historic review and
discussed the procedures with Terdalkar.
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May 18, 2006
Page 8
Maharry asked what other properties are not covered by now except the sorority and the church and the
ones that the Commission approved for demolition. He questioned whether there are some extraordinary
reasons, such as a lack of funds, that the owner is unable to protect the house. Terdalkar said the HRDP
emergency grant is specifically for the stabilization of structures.
Terdaikar said he contacted the owner to ask for access to the property and requested that the owner put
up tarps on the roof and boards on the windows. He said he left a message with the owner but has had
no response.
Carlson said his main reason for supporting the demolition by neglect petition would be to get the owner
to do something. Maharry said that if the building is structurally unsound, then it needs to come down.
Weitzel said he believes there are ways the City could pursue having the applicant complete the
application or finding him in abeyance of some kind of procedure. Carlson asked if this has a legal hook
to it - if there is actually some legal means the City wouid have to do this or if this is just negotiation with
the owner.
Burford asked if there is any evidence that this building was insured. Terdalkar said he would have to
investigate that. He said there was not an active renter's permit for the building, although it was
apparently occupied as a rental property.
Weitzel asked why HIS could not just tell the owner that he was not maintaining his property and why they
had to come to the Commission for this. Maharry said that HIS wants the Commission to force the issue.
Weitzel said that, given the situation the Commission is in with certain members of the community right
now, he did not want the Commission to have to be someone else's tool. He asked why, if the City can
act on its own, it didn't do it. Weitzel said that if the City really cannot act to pursue this without a
complaint, then the Commission would be willing to do this. Maharry added that any private citizen can
make a complaint.
Terdalkar stated that HIS could have acted before the caretaker applied for a demolition permit. He said
that now HIS is going to wait for the Commission's decision on the demolition, but such a request has not
been made to the Commission as of yet. Weitzel said that if HIS thinks the Commission is not going to
allow the house to be demolished, then he would support this demolition by neglect. He said that until
there is actually some kind of consensus, however, that this is where this is going, then he feels the
Commission is out of order for that.
Burford said that this is what the owner wants - to stall the decision about the demolition. Weitzel said
the Commission can discuss that - whether this is an eligible house and whether the house needs to
come down or would the Commission more than likely say that it can't come down and therefore should
be protected.
Carlson said that, based on current information, he would say that the building should not come down.
Maharry agreed. Weitzel said that since there seems to be a consensus, the Commission could support
th is type of motion.
Carlson asked if this would be the Commission's best course of action. He said that there are
alternatives, and he did not want the Commission to be the bully if it did not have to be.
Brennan said that someone would have to investigate this. He said the way for the City to get someone
in there would be by consent of the owner or by having a search warrant.
Maharry said that these are not ordinary circumstances. He said that the sorority house is presumably to
be torn down, because it is structurally unsound. Weitzel said that it was acknowledged by the
Commission at the last meeting that that was going to happen.
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May 18, 2006
Page 9
For purposes of consistency, Maharry said the other building to be considered is the church. Terdalkar
said the church is not a landmark property. Weitzel stated that the church is eligible to be a landmark, but
no one ever followed up with the paperwork.
Gunn said that the prevention of demolition by neglect applies to the church whether it is in a district or
not. Weitzel agreed and said that the Commission could look at that and said he feels more comfortable
when the Commission acts on its own initiative. Maharry said that staff put the item regarding 17 South
Governor Street on the Commission's agenda. Gunn stated that one alternative would be to ask staff
what it recommends and if staff has any other ideas and then review them next week. He said the
building looks fairly unsafe and asked if there isn't a more direct way to deai with an unsafe property than
invoking demolition by neglect.
The motion carried on a vote of 5-1. with Gunn votina no.
Maharry asked who would file the petition. Terdalkar said he would be willing to do it. He said that this is
the first time this provision has been invoked. Maharry suggested that the concerns be listed in the
narrative to detail why this is demolition by neglect, and the Commission should give specific reasons.
Maharry said that the reason essentially involves the windows and the roof. Weitzel added the fact that
every other owner intending to maintain his property has already done the preliminary work of protecting
the building. Carlson added that the house is not off its foundation, and there is no obvious buckling of
the walls.
Regarding St. Patrick's, Brennan said he hated to see it standing there open if it is going to be restored.
Maharry said he had heard that the interior was redone in 1976. Brennan confirmed this. Maharry said
that because this was a 3D-year old restoration, he worried less about this and said he heard there is not
much remaining of the original interior other than the windows and the wood beams.
Carlson asked why the church has not been tarped over. Weitzel stated that the church administration
wants to sell the property, so demolishing the building expedites that for them. He said that the zoning
plan for that part of town and what the diocese wants to do are in conjunction with each other. Weitzel
said they both want to get rid of the building and sell the property to a developer. He added that the
people who belong to that church don't want that to happen.
Gunn asked if the church has applied for a demolition permit. Weitzel said he did not believe so.
Brennan stated that the church could do that and since It is not in a historic district, it would be approved.
Maharry said if the Commission had notification from some parishioners that they wanted to pursue the
possible historic status of the church, the Commission could investigate it that way. Weitzel said that Ann
Freerks has requested that, and he asked her to make the request in a more formal way.
Carlson said that the Commission would only have authority if the property is eligible for listing on the
National Register. He asked if, in its current state, it is eligible for listing on the National Register. Weitzel
said that Marlys Svendsen's interpretation is to include things that were potentially eligible on the day of
the storm. Weitzel said that Hotz Avenue is therefore okay for the buildings that were potentially eligible
for a district. He said there is a board that will meet and discuss which projects get funding.
Maharry said the board won't discuss which houses are historic and which aren't. He said that evidently,
a drive-by would give sufficient basic information to deem a property eligible, according to what Bob Miklo
had told him.
Weitzel said he had not heard that and had not heard that from the State. Maharry said there would
never be anything eligible on Hotz Avenue by the June 12'h deadline. Weitzel responded that Svendsen
had looked at that area already for a district and had already done discussion of it. Weitzel said that
Svendsen had intended to include that in the Preservation Plan as a new intended area for a district.
Weitzel said that information tells the Commission that the area was potentially eligible as a district.
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May 18, 2006
Page 10
Burford asked if there is a list of contributing and National Register eligible houses. She said that the
maps don't always add up the numbers that have been discussed. Maharry said that the lists are
mapped and are on-line. Weitzel said that originally there were 125 damaged historic properties, but the
number submitted to the State started at twelve and then went up to 20. He said he didn't know why
there have been different numbers discussed and has received no explanation for the discrepancy.
Burford said that the College Hill evaluation and application to become a National Register District is
scant in comparison to the other surveys done in the City. She suggested there might be some homes
that were not identified as contributing that actuaiiy are contributing structures to the district.
Maharry said he thought the research done on College Hill was pretty good and said there was a lot of it.
He said that it is a local conservation district that never went to the national district level. Maharry said
that College Hill is a conservation district, but East College and College Green are historic districts.
Terdalkar referred to the Iowa Avenue reconnaissance survey. He said there are detailed surveys of
Washington Street and, in some cases, Lucas and Governor, but Iowa Avenue has only a
reconnaissance survey. Terdalkar added that the State has requested a compilation of photograph
evidence from before the storm.
Weitzel agreed that the College Green Historic District had a very thorough examination of what is
contributing and what is a key structure, which would be individually eligible even if there were no district.
He stated that a contributing structure contributes to the whole historic district.
Terdalkar said that the most destruction occurred in the College Hill Conservation District. He said there
are fewer individually eligible properties in that district. Weitzel asked if the State had made a ruling on
that. He said that during the tour with Svendsen, Svendsen referred to eligible, National Register
properties, which would include contributing structures for historic districts and potentially eligible for a
conservation or historic district.
Terdalkar said that Barbara Mitchell's e-mail to him stated that it would not include a conservation district.
Maharry asked if none of the $250,000 would be for a conservation district property. Terdalkar replied
that was true, if they are not National Register eligible or National Register properties.
Weitzel responded that Svendsen thought it was the opposite - if it was potentially eiigible for a district, it
counted and should get funding. He said she was mostly referring to Hotz Avenue. Weitzel said
Svendsen thought that the Hotz area was eligible to be a historic district the day of the storm; therefore
those houses should be eligible to receive aid. Weitzel said he would think that the conservation district,
by definition, is not eligible for a historic district, because the Commission designated it a conservation
district and not a historic district. He said that none of those properties wouid then be eligible, unless they
are individually significant. Weitzel said that would make the sorority eligible, but the property next to it
would not be eligible.
Gunn said that properties can still be individually eligible in a conservation district. Weitzel confirmed this
but said that the conservation district designation doesn't give group protection to the whole area. He
said that Svendsen had discussed Hotz being a National Register historic district and not a conservation
district.
Maharry said it is difficult to believe that the people on Hotz could get preservation money and a protected
conservation district can't. Weitzel said that a National Register individually eligible property in the
College Hill Conservation District could receive funds. He said that a property contributing to a locai
designation wouldn't count, because it doesn't meet the threshold for a National Register historic district.
Maharry said that the City will have to get an interpretation about where that money is supposed to go.
He said there is no organized research submitted to the City right now about Hotz. Maharry stated that
there is plenty of research that says that College Hill is historic. He said that Hotz doesn't have to go by
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May 18, 2006
Page 11
any standards right now and the Commission would have no control over what the owners do, so why
should they get money.
Weitzel said that Svendsen looked at the Hotz area as a potential district, and property owners would get
the money to restore it to the previous condition so it could continue to go on and become a district.
Carlson asked who would review it if the Hotz area got federal money. Weitzel responded that it would
be the State panel that would review all the projects.
Carlson asked how the money would be prioritized. Weitzel said it is supposed to be first come-first
served, but the discussion determined that they would all be reviewed at the same time. He said that
there will still be a $15,000 maximum per applicant.
Weitzei said that in a National Register district, all the contributing properties, in fact all the properties,
should be eligible for funding. Terdalkar asked if they are all severely damaged. Weitzel said that not all
of them were damaged, but the number is certainly more than twelve.
MINUTES FOR MAY 4.2006 AND MAY 11. 2006 MEETINGS:
Mav 4. 2006. Carlson said that on page four, in the first paragraph after the amendment to the main
motion in the second line, the words "what is" should be removed. He said that on page six, the word
"mutton" should be changed to "muntin" throughout. Carlson said that on page six, in the third to last
paragraph, first sentence, the word "shingle" should be included at the end after "weathered wood."
MOTION: Carlson moved to approve the May 4, 2006 minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission,
as amended. Maharry seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
Mav 11. 2006. Carlson said that on page two, "mutton" should be changed to "muntin." He stated that on
page three, in the fourth full paragraph, last sentence, the word "opening" should be inserted after "door",
and the word "exception" should be changed to "prohibition."
Carlson said that on page four, in the third to last paragraph, in the second to last line, the word "moving"
should be changed to "removing." He stated that on page five, in the fourth paragraph, first sentence, the
words "for his property at 819 East College Street" should be inserted at the end of the sentence.
Carlson said that on page ten, in the fifth full paragraph, second sentence, the word "Clarion" should be
inserted before "planning associates."
MOTION: Carlson moved to approve the May 11,2006 minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission,
as amended. Gunn seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
OTHER:
Weitzel said that he and Terdalkar discussed perhaps limiting public comments at the beginning of the
meeting to five or ten minutes.
Regarding the State panel to review properties for funding, Weitzel said that someone from Iowa City will
probably be on that panel, and he would encourage them to grant whatever leniency possible to buildings
that are important to that street. He said the panel is imposing standards on it, but he would see what the
panel member could do. Terdalkar said the State has asked if the Iowa City representative should have
voting powers or not, and the panel would be open to the person having voting powers.
Weitzel said the appropriation was made specifically for certain cases, but in order for the money to be
distributed according to the State laws, it has to go through the procedure that is already set up. Weitzel
said he was willing to serve on the State panel, unless someone else was interested.
Maharry asked if the owners of historic homes on Market, Jefferson, and/or Rochester would just be out
in the cold. Weitzel said that he would like to get a more consolidated opinion from Svendsen about that
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May 18, 2006
Page 12
area and what she has previously looked at before the State panel meets. He added that it is a National
Register standard that potentially eligible counts as eligible in cases of reviews. Weitzel said that
Svendsen has designated hundreds of districts and has a pretty good idea of what constitutes a district.
Terdalkar said that for properties outside the district that are not eligible and for ineligible properties in the
district, there may be a possibility for City and local funding.
Weitzel stated that the specific appropriation was for gap funding; it was not designed to just give money
out for any1hing that was damaged. He said it was for homeowners who didn't receive an insurance
settlement to cover the full costs. Weitzel said that there are attorneys to help with insurance settlements
and AlA to help with design work. He said the State money won't go far enough, but there are other
avenues for help. Maharry suggested that the best spent time would be fighting for a fair and adequate
insurance adjustment.
Carlson asked what the State would need as proof that a property is National Register eligible - if the
opinion of a consultant would be adequate or if it would have to be something more formal. Weitzel did
not know.
Maharry asked if Svendsen could drive down Iowa Avenue and designate a particular property as
National Register eligible. Weitzei said that because it is not a historic district, the funding falls down to
the ones that actually have a National Register individual eligibility, because it would never have become
a historic district on the National Register level. He said the Commission doesn't make local conservation
districts to get funding, because they aren't eligible for federal assistance.
Terdalkar said that there would be the same criteria for the properties on Hotz Avenue - they will only get
money if they are individually eligible. Weitzel said he disagreed with that based on the information he
had. Terdalkar said that Barbara Mitchell from the State has indicated that if something is not designated,
it is not eligible. Weitzel said the Commission should confirm that with Mitchell.
Maharry suggested the Commission move to designate the north side of the 900 block of Iowa Avenue as
Nationai Register eligible. Terdalkar said that there would be a State process to go through. Maharry
pointed out that these are extraordinary circumstances.
Terdalkar said the city is compiling mailing lists in order to send out letters to homeowners within the
district. He said that the deadline to apply for funding will be June 13th Terdalkar said the City is
sending letters to everyone in the district, because there will possibly be more than one source of funding.
Weitzel said that a contributing property for a conservation district is still a historic property, so there may
be some leniency. He said that technically, however, a conservation district would not be eligible.
Maharry suggested the Commission discuss whether a building is nationally eligible or not. He said that if
the Commission can do that, it would be good to include as many properties as possible on Iowa Avenue,
which has actually been researched. Weitzel said that would be possible, as long as there were criteria.
Carlson said that in the past, the Commission did Section 106 reviews fairly informally, based on minimal
information, to make a determination of eligibility for buildings requesting COBG money. Terdalkar said
that is administered locally.
Weitzel said that for Iowa Avenue, he would consider the following as both eligible and severely
damaged: 928, 930, and 942. He said that Kathy had told him that 936 would not be eligible individually.
Maharry asked about 819 and 821 Iowa Avenue. Carlson confirmed that those are Carpenter houses.
Weitzel said he believed that they would therefore be absolutely eligible. He suggested that 17 South
Governor be included as eligible.
Carlson said that the problem is that none of them seem to have been evaluated, because the starred
properties on the map are the ones that are individually National Register eligible, based on the survey.
He said there are very few of those and none on those two blocks of Iowa Avenue. Carlson said the
Commission would have to go against the survey to say that the properties are in fact eligible.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 18, 2006
Page 13
Weitzel said the Commission could do that. Carlson agreed but said there has to be a reason for the
Commission to make such a determination. He said he would like to see the Carpenter houses restored
to what they were. Weitzel said he did not know what criteria Amy Smothers used for her survey but said
that with this list of properties, he couid suggest properties that need to be looked at more carefuliy.
Maharry said that the houses on Hotz are similar to these houses on Iowa. He said that those houses are
National Register eligible because it could be a cohesive district, whereas these on Iowa are not because
a conservation district was created. Weitzel said that occurred because one whole side of the street was
not even considered contributing, so that took away the 65% necessary to get up to a historic district.
Maharry said that the research was done for Iowa Avenue but not for the Hotz area. Weitzel said the
research showed that the area failed the criteria to meet the national standard. Gunn said that if it would
have been eligible for national historic district designation, it would not have brought forth as a
conservation district, because the City ordinance would not have aliowed it. He said that if it is eligible as
a historic district, it is not supposed to be a conservation district. Weitzel said that is consistent with the
national procedures. He said thatthere are other sources of funding as well.
Terdalkar said it is not guaranteed that houses on Hotz will be eligible for funding. He said he will have to
clarify that with Barbara Mitchell. Terdalkar said he will get more information and also put forth the case
that these houses on Iowa Avenue are eligible.
Terdalkar said that on May 1st, the State presented certificates for National Register historic districts for
Gilbert-Linn and Melrose Avenue.
Terdalkar said the Commission would probably need to hold a meeting next week to review applications
for storm damaged properties.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:05.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
pcdfminuleslHPC/2006HPCminutesJ05-1 S.06.doc
Historic Preservation Commission
Attendance Record
2006
Term
Name Expires 01/19 02/9 02/22 03/16 04/13 04/27 05/04 05/11 05/18
E. Baker 3/29/09 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X X X
M. Brennan 3/29/08 X X OlE OlE X X X X X
R. Carlson 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X X
J. Enloe 3/29/06 X X OlE OlE -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
M. Guon 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X X
M. Maharr-y 3/29/08 X X X X X X X OlE X
M. McCallum 3/29/06 X X X X -- -- ---- ---- -- -- -- --
J. Pardekooper 3/29107 X X X 0 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
J. Ponto 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X OlE
M. Schatteman 3/29/09 -- -- ---- -- -- -- -- X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
J. Weissmiller 3/29/06 0 0 0 0 -- -- ---- -- -- -- -- -- --
T. Weitzel 3/29/08 X X X X X X X X X
Key:
X = Present
0 = Absent
OlE = AbsentlExcused
NM = No Meeting
-- -- = Not a Member
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2006
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM
APPROVED
/'3~:',\ 1
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Michael Brennan, Richard Carlson, Michael Gunn, Pam Michaud,
Jim Ponto, Ginalie Swaim
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Maharry, Tim Weitzel
STAFF PRESENT: Sunil Terdalkar
OTHERS PRESENT: Jesse Bulman, Helen Burford, Peter Kaboli, John Raley
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Carlson called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION:
111 South Lucas Street. Terdalkar said this is an application to remove the damaged aluminum siding
from the house and install fiber cement board in its place. He said that the house originally had stucco
siding, which was later covered with aluminum siding. Terdalkar said that the applicant is considering the
possibility of going back to stucco, depending on the cost and finding someone with that expertise.
Terdalkar said the house has been built with the influence of craftsman style. He pointed out some details
such as the exposed rafters and the tapered columns on the porch. Terdalkar said the owner intends to
reveal all the details by removing the aluminum siding, capping etc. and keep the trim on the windows
and the corner-boards.
Raley said that he would not be the owner of this house until August 4'h, but the owner agreed to let him
clean up the property. Raley said he wants to remove the siding. He said the insurance company is only
giving about $8,000 for all the siding, so he will have a lot of money out of his pocket. Raley said he is
excited about the opportunity to restore this house.
Raley said that his wife would be most open to going back to stucco. He said he realizes that if water
permeates stucco, there can be mold problems. Raley said he is also open to doing it, however.
Raley said that where the foundation is on the house, where the brick is, is actually bowed out about eight
inches. He said the inspector informed him that it can be fixed from the inside in the basement, where it
can be reinforced and rebraced. Raley said that the soffits are all wood, and he will be replacing any
rotted wood with wood.
Raley said he appreciated the letter from Terdalkar, because it gave him a starting point from which to
repair damages. He said the inspector felt the chimney on this house was okay. Raley stated that when'
he pulls off the siding on the porch, there might be some sagging.
Terdalkar said that the baluster on the railing is missing so that the steps might have to be redone. Raley
said that there is about a three or four-inch separation between the porch and the house. He stated that
some of the windows were previously replaced by the current owner with vinyl windows. Raley said he
plans to go back and do more of a window insert in order to keep the integrity of the wood around the
window.
Raley said the proposed skylight may not even be feasible, because the attic is very small. Ponto said
that if the owner wants to install a skylight, the Commission would prefer that it be on the back and not the
street side. Raley said he would have no problem with that.
Raley said he would be using architectural shingles on the house. Carlson said that replacing the roof and
replacing the gutters do not need to be reviewed by the Commission. He said the only thing the
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25,2006
Page 2
Commission would be concerned about would be removing the siding, which everyone on the
Commission seemed to approve of.
Carlson said that Raley mentioned doing something with the windows, which is not included in the
application. He said the Commission may need something more specific. Terdalkar said that the front
stairs and railings would aiso need to be reviewed. He said that in the later stages when those things are
closer to being done, Raley might want to come back with design plans for those. Carlson suggested that
the Commission approve the siding for now. Raley said he was okay with that.
MOTION: Ponto moved to approve an application for 111 South Lucas Street, specifically related
to removing the existing siding, allowing either stucco or wood or fiber cement board siding, and
maintaining whatever wood trim is underneath the aluminum siding and/or repairing/replacing it
with appropriate material, style and appearance. Swaim seconded the motion.
Carlson said that the windows and railing couid come before the commission later. Michaud asked if,
even though Raley intends to put in comparable windows and an appropriate front porch, the Commission
needs to review that a second time. Terdalkar said it was not included on this application. He said the
Commission could consider the skylights, with the condition that they are on the back side. Terdalkar
said, however, that the Commission would want to at least see the design for the railings on the front
porch. He said the Commission could consider the windows at the present time. Raley said he did not yet
know which windows need to be replaced.
Terdalkar said that if this is just sashes, the owner might be able to just go through an administrative
review and not have to go to the full Commission. Terdaikar said that installation of storms does not need
review at all, but the handbook provides useful recommendations.
Raley said he would come back to the Commission after the siding is done with a more detailed plan for
the windows and railing.
The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
1118 Colleoe Street. Terdalkar stated that this is an application for an addition by demolishing part of the
current addition on this house. He said the owner will demolish part of the current addition and extend the
footprint by about six feet. Terdalkar said it will have a similar shed roof, and there will be a window added
that will be similar to what is there. He stated that there is a bay window that will be replaced with a pair of
regular windows. Terdalkar said this project involves some demolition, an addition, and some alterations.
Michaud asked if this addition would go on the back side of the house. Kaboli, the owner of the house,
confirmed this and confirmed that the house is located between Muscatine Avenue and Summit Street.
Terdalkar showed where another patio door would be added. He said the rest of the footprint would be
covered with a patio or deck.
Swaim asked if the aluminum siding would just be removed on the addition. Kaboli replied that the
aluminum siding would be removed from the whole house. He said that the addition, which was built in
1980, had aluminum siding. Kaboli said he plans to use new wood for that, and the rest of the aluminum
siding would all come off.
Kaboli said he took off a little bit of the aluminum to see what it looked like underneath. He said that
narrow clapboard is underneath, and it appears to be in really good condition. Kaboli said he also found
some salvaged clapboard of the same size that he can use that should be enough to do the whole
add ition.
Ponto asked if the roofing for the new proposed addition would be metal. Kaboli said he changed that
from the application. He said that Sanjay, his contractor, specified standing seam metal on the
application, but he is now planning to just use architectural shingles. Kaboli said the slope will be 3:12.
Michaud asked if this will have a continuous roof from the left side to the peak on the right of the new
addition. Kaboli said it will not. He said it comes together and will be exactly like it is now but will just be
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 3
about eight inches higher where it will come off the house to give it a slightly higher pitch. Kaboli said he
is open to any suggestions the Commission might have.
Terdalkar said the patio door profile should be wide enough as is seen on the windows and doors. He
said the drawing shows about an inch or inch and one-half and suggested that there be a wider profile
around the door. Carlson said that since the patio door would not be appropriate to this house, even
though it would be on an addition, he would rather not see it there. He acknowledged that this is a
modern addition and said that therefore it would not be terrible if the patio door were there.
Kaboli said the plan is to have a sliding door to give more options on the interior, but he had looked at
some Pella doors that could be sliding or could open in or out. Carlson said the guidelines disallow
installing sliding patio doors if they were not original to the building or consistent with the architectural
style. He said the Commission will need to determine if this is consistent with the architectural style of the
house or just of the modern addition. Carlson said it is not really clearly stated in the guidelines, and he
was not certain what the Commission had done in the past.
Kaboli said the doors haven't been selected yet but said he likes the divided lights. He said that Sanjay
felt that because none of the windows have divided lights, it would be inconsistent for the doors to have
them'. Swaim asked about the front door. Kaboli said it is a wood door with a big oval, double glass. He
said he is open to suggestions for this.
Michaud asked if there are some sliding doors with some metal around them to make the pane a little
smaller and not so contemporary. Terdalkar said there are such doors available. Kaboli said he can get a
door with a little framing.
Ponto asked if the new window to be added to the addition would be the same or a similar size as the
existing windows on the house. Kaboli confirmed this and said they would be the same style, without
divided lights to be consistent with the house. He added that the bay window would be removed, because
it is broken anyway, and there would be two double hung windows there to match the rest of the house.
Burford said that the salvage barn had materials that Kaboli might be interested in, including a double
door and a sliding oak single door.
Carlson recalled that the Commission had, in the past, required even additions to be more faithful to the
original part of the building than to whatever year the addition was built. He said he would like to see
something more compatible with an early 20'h century house than what a sliding door would be. Kaboli
said he wants to do what is right and said the look can go either way, whether it is a slider or not. Carlson
suggested using any of the options that Terdalkar had drawn that look more like French doors than
sliders. Kaboli said he could do that with a door that has a sliding mechanism but has the outward
appearance of a French door.
Bulman stated that H Window makes a French door that swings out. He said they are a little more
expensive, however. Gunn said another option is the Pella door that hinges in the middle and folds back
on itself. Kaboli said that would work.
Carlson asked about the window to be replaced on the addition. Kaboli said it is not actually a window but
is just a piece of Plexiglas. He said the window to be placed there will look just like the windows on the
rest of the house, a double hung with no divided light.
Carlson said the drawings of the rear elevation show hardi plank. Kaboli said that was drawn before the
aluminum was removed and before he realized the wood underneath looks okay. He said that was shown
because in the event the wood has to be replaced, that is what he would replace it with.
MOTION: Michaud moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 1118
College Street as proposed; but with a hinged patio door or a door with the appearance of French
doors, as opposed to the appearance of a slider; with asphalt shingles instead of a metal seam
roof; and with the options of restoring the wood siding or using fiber cement board. Swaim
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 4
Kaboli asked about potential color schemes. Burford said that Marlys Svendsen has written extensively
about historically appropriate Midwest colors, and Swaim said there is also information available at the
State Historical Society.
815 Iowa Avenue. Terdalkar stated that this application was previously reviewed by the Commission
regarding the replacement of siding. He said the owner has now opened up the enclosure of the porch
and intends to make it an open wraparound porch.
Terdalkar said the owner has proposed using PVC materials for the railing, the columns, and the newel
posts. He said that is not allowed in the guidelines. Buiman, the architect for this project, said the owner is
requesting the PVC because of the cost and because he wants to have a low-maintenance product. He
said the design is for a square post and said this is a very simple, small house.
Michaud asked if this style could be applied without a sleeve on the post. Bulman said the PVC is
wrapped but then it's toe nailed; the sleeve is stili going to have that look to it.
Terdalkar said he suggested a fiberglass material, which can be painted and is also durable. Bulman said
he could use fibergiass, and he thought the owner would be open to that. Terdalkar said that fiberglass
would also be low maintenance.
Carlson asked if a fiberglass railing would look like a wood railing. He said that it is disallowed to use any
wood substitutes that do not retain the appearance, function, and paintability of the original wood.
Michaud said that this would be painted, and hardi-plank appears like wood. She asked if a grain could be
added, but Terdalkar said that looks more fake than without. Bulman said that the PVC looks more like
wood than fiberglass, in his opinion.
Ponto said the manufacturer's brochure states that the polyethylene is finished white so that it can be
painted. Carlson said he had never seen a PVC product that looked like wood.
Burford asked if the house is already sided. Buiman said the house is not currently sided, but the owner
has approval to put vinyl siding on the house. Burford said the Friends of Historic Preservation would be
willing to have a siding workshop at the house to get a group of people to repair what has to be repaired
and to paint. Terdalkar said that Friends could offer to repaint the house, as necessary, but the owner
doesn't want to maintain the paint job.
Burford said that if the wood siding is painted property, the paint would last for years and years. Terdalkar
agreed that it would last for at least ten to twelve years. He said, however, the certificate was approved
with the option of using vinyl. Terdalkar said that approval requires that the wood siding be maintained so
that it could be restored if a future owner wanted to do so.
Terdalkar said that if Friends of Historic Preservation wants to pursue the option of painting the house
with the owners' approval, the Commission probably would not have a problem with it. Bulman said he
would inform the owner that Friends of Historic Preservation would be wiliing to paint this.
Bulman said he discussed slimming down the columns with Terdaikar. Terdalkar said he had suggested a
six by six column, instead of an eight by eight. Swaim said that this is such a small house and asked if all
of the piliars are needed. Bulman said the structural engineer recommended using two by eights no
farther than nine feet on center, so that's what he used. Bulman said that one could use a four by four
post to support that or something that has a little more decoration like the piliar. He said that two by four
rafters going back were suggested, but although it would support it, he felt it would creep over time.
Bulman said that for wood framing, the drawing shows what the structural engineer recommended.
Michaud said that it seems like the double pillars on the corners are not suitable for a little cottage styie
house. Terdalkar said the double posts on the corner make it heavier. He said a square post is fine, but
one would be better than two there.
Michaud said that the picture shows a bigger span than indicated, and she did not see why there was a
support there for a tiny house. Bulman said than when one runs the structure this way and is coming back
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 5
to the house, there has to be enough room for the door to swing out. He said therefore, that one can't put
a big piece of structure out in front of that and still get a slope back to the original roof.
Terdalkar said this is referring to the newel posts. Michaud said that the short posts that don't go to the
roof; there is a long span there of about ten feet. Bulman said that could be done; it is just a design thing.
Terdalkar said that making sure that there is a masonry or some wider support underneath the decking is
also a requirement of the guidelines - that the skirting should be between the supports. Bulman asked if
he has to use a masonry product. Terdalkar said that whatever is there now can be used, since this part
is a repair job. Bulman said that this porch does not actually have a foundation. Bulman said that the
repair to the porch is actually the repair of the broken joist that is there now. He said he plans to also put
in footings three feet down. Terdaikar said that the current foundation is plastered over, so that Bulman
could use something that is piastered.
Swaim asked about the roofing material for the porch. Bulman responded that it is called MightyPly, which
is supposed to be one of the better flat, EPM-type filled up roofs. He said it's like a black tar built up, but it
'has a membrane and is sealed with some tarring material. Bulman said it would not be seen from the
street level. Terdalkar agreed that it is almost flat.
Gunn said the roofing material is an asphait coated poiyester. Carlson said that if what is seen is just the
asphait, then that should be fine.
Bulman said he would revise the elevations and make the suggestions to the owner to talk with Friends of
Historic Preservation. Bulman asked if the PVC is a big deal to the Commission. Carlson said it was to
him personally, but he could not speak for the rest of the Commission.
Michaud said that since there is nothing there now, she thinks it is laudable that the owner is putting
something on. She said that a wraparound porch is quite an undertaking, and the owner needs some
support. Swaim agreed but said that since the owner is doing all this, it would be nice to go the whole way
and use a more appropriate material.
Bulman pointed out that this is a small home for this block. Swaim asked if this house had a porch at one
time. Bulman said he did not know. Terdalkar said that is why a very simple porch wouid be appropriate
here.
Gunn asked if the Commission wanted to recommend wood columns. Terdalkar said that fiberglass was
also one of his suggestions, and the Commission has approved that previously on some applications.
Bulman said he would probably end up using a wood material still for the railing. Terdalkar said there may
be a wood substitute that could be used for the railings and said he has not seen anything that is made of
fiberglass for railings.
Swaim asked Bulman if he was originally talking about using wood for the railings. Bulman said that
originally it would have been PVC cladded wood.
Ponto asked about the decking. Bulman said the decking is fine, but the joist running back to the house
split. He said that would be replaced, and the existing decking would be maintained.
MOTION: Gunn moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the proposal for 815 Iowa
Avenue as submitted, with the following exceptions: a design similar to what was proposed by
staff to be made of wood, fiberglass, or other approved material, not plastic; roof to be a
Mightyply membrane; and a support for the existing deck to be rebuilt and exposed in such a way
as to be compatible with the present foundation. Brennan seconded the motion. The motion
carried on a vote of 7-0.
409 Oakland Avenue. Terdalkar stated that this application is to redo the windows and replace most of
the sashes. He said he tried to contact the applicant regarding the window sashes but was unable to do
so. Terdalkar said there does not appear from the street to be much of a problem, although there may be
problems on the inside.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 6
Terdalkar said the fenestration all around is good; he said the storms have a similar six over nine divided
light pattern. He said the owner has not informed the Commission how much damage there is or what the
problem is. Terdalkar said that if the owner wants to do this wholesale replacement with metal-clad, the
Commission will probably want more information and may want to defer this item.
Carlson agreed that he would not vote to approve a wholesale replacement without knowing more about
the condition of the existing windows. Terdalkar added that this is not a storm-related application.
Swaim asked if the sashes are wooden with an aluminum covering. Terdalkar confirmed this. Swaim
asked if the aluminum would be the issue. Terdalkar confirmed this. He said that the Commission has
approved metal clad before but would generally have reservations about replacing all of the windows on
this house, which are probably all original. Terdalkar said that even though they have simulated divided
lights, the profile won't match what is there because It is a very thin muntin divided light.
Swaim said there would be products that would work here. Terdalkar agreed but said he has not been
able to talk to the owners to see if there is a possibility of repair or to find out the extent of damage.
Carlson stated that the guidelines encourage repair over replacement, but right now the Commission
doesn't have the information to say whether or not these could be repaired. Terdalkar said the
Commission was convinced by a previous application in which the damage listed every window and the
damage, but it does not have that information in this case.
Swaim asked, concerning repairing versus replacing, if someone is trying to save energy by going to one
unit, if that would be acceptable. Carlson said that right now this house has a two-layer system and would
be probably going to two panes in one window with no storms. He said it might be a bit more efficient
from an energy standpoint but believed that would only be for about ten to fifteen years.
MOTION: Gunn moved to table consideration of a certificate of appropriateness for the project at
409 Oakland Avenue until the condition of the existing windows can be further investigated. Baker
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
OTHER:
Burford said that Friends of Historic Preservation has agreed to call property owners in the historic
districts regarding potential funding for repairs. Terdalkar said the list she had includes both historic and
conservation districts, as well as some properties outside the districts that are considered landmark
properties.
Terdalkar said the list is of properties that had storm damage. He said that the HRDP emergency grant
will be available for the homeowners who are eligible for the National Register or are part of the National
Register District. Terdalkar said the City sent a letter to those owners informing them of the grant and that
application materials will be ready as soon as the State provides them. He said he has not had much
response to those letters yet.
Burford said that she and Terdalkar and Weitzel have received phone calls from Christine Denburg, who
spoke to the Press-Citizen regarding 938 Iowa Avenue. Terdalkar said that Denburg has expressed a
concern that the owner wants to sell 938 Iowa Avenue with the intention of demolishing of it, although the
City has not received a request for a demolition permit.
Burford said she believes this is the Love House that was moved from College Street. She said the intent
of the owner seems to be to sell the house now that he has received his insurance settlement and not
deal with renovation and repair. Burford said the owner is entertaining offers to buy and also apparently
implying that this house could be demolished and the potential for the number of units could be
maximized. Michaud said the owner had toid her that the property has the potential for 4.8 units.
Burford said that Friends of Historic Preservation is not in a position to take on another house project but
would support any unity effort that might be made to try to save the house. Terdalkar said that Denburg
wanted to make sure the owner doesn't demolish the property in the middle of the night. He said he
informed Denburg of the Commission's limitations in forcing something but encouraged her to go to the
Housing and Inspection Services to raise her concerns.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 7
Carlson said the concern then is that the owner may simply demolish the building and take the
consequences. Terdalkar confirmed this. Swaim asked if the proper thing would be for the owner to apply
for a demolition permit, which would then come before the Commission because the property is in a
district.
Michaud asked, should a future owner rebuild on this land, if it can have a different footprint but has to
comply with setback and height requirements. Terdalkar confirmed that all the zoning and site plan
requirements would apply, as well as Commission review.
Burford suggested that this should have been anticipated, although no one would have thought that
anyone would do this. She said that here is a damaged structure, and all the person wanted to get was an
insurance settlement and then maximize his financial gain to cash out on top of that and walk away from
the problem.
Brennan said that a violation of the zoning code is a simple misdemeanor that carries a minimum fine of
$50 and a maximum of 30 days in jail, and there is no upper limit on the fines. He said that if someone
demolishes a building in a district, he could be required to restore the building to its appearance prior to
the violation, as approved by the Historic Preservation Commission. Terdalkar added that the fines keep
accruing as long as the owner is in violation.
Michaud said that a straightforward strategy would be to release this information to the Press Citizen
where prospective buyers would see it. Terdalkar said that the zoning code is the law, but he did not
know how appropriate it would be for a staff person or for the Commission to pursue this. He said that a
private citizen could go to the City Council to make sure that these issues are known. Brennan said that if
the City Council would want to prosecute something like this, then the City Attorney would file an action
with the Magistrate's Court.
Michaud asked if this violation included the conservation district. Brennan confirmed this. He said that to
pursue this to the level of the courts, the City Council would have to get involved and approve further
action.
Terdalkar said that Housing and Inspection Services is the body that would go in and enforce anything
that is a violation of the building or zoning codes and should be notified of any violation. He said the
owner is given a notice of violation and then given a period of time in which to correct the violation.
Burford stated that this is not in the Commission's purview, but the sentiments of people are that the
Commission is supposed to make sure this doesn't happen and then, if it does not or cannot, that Friends
should step in on this. She said the problem is that if the community feels that it wants to save this
property, then it takes some action on the part of the people who have those concerns to do something,
since it is not in the Commission's purview.
Terdalkar said that if a private citizen comes and discusses this with the Commission, he believes the
Commission will act on that complaint and make recommendations to the City Council. He said that is
how the concern regarding 335 South Clinton Street advanced to the City Council level.
Carlson noted that nothing has been done yet for HIS or the Commission or the City Council to act on. He
said the Commission can make the issue known, but beyond that, the Commission needs to wait for the
permits. Burford said the fact that penalties are possible can be publicized. Terdalkar said that the Press
Citizen was approached for this and can be given the information that these provisions are in the zoning
code.
Brennan asked if the house is currently protected. Burford replied that it is sort of covered. Brennan
replied that it might at some point become a demolition by neglect question.
Terdalkar said that at least the roof has been covered. He said that at least from a structural point of view,
it doesn't appear that the building needs to be demolished.
Terdalkar stated that if there are any storm-related applications, the Commission would meet again next
Thursday.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 25, 2006
Page 8
Minutes:
Carlson said that on page four, in the first paragraph, last sentence, the word "constructed" should be
changed to "reconstructed." He said that on page five, the second paragraph should begin, "Gunn said
that what has to go..." Carlson said that on the same page, in the second to last line, "tarpaper" should be
changed to "tarp,"
Carlson asked Gunn to clarify the statement on page seven, in the sixth paragraph, the fourth sentence,
Gunn said it should be changed to read, "He said it does not fall under decay or deterioration,"
Carlson said that on page eleven, in the second paragraph after "OTHER," in the first sentence, Weitzel
should be asked to clarify which street he is referring to here. Carlson said that on the same page, in the
second to last line, the sentence, "He added that it is a National Register standard that potentially eligible
counts as eligible in cases of reviews," is not really accurate and should be clarified with Weitzel.
Carlson said that on page 12, in the ninth paragraph, first sentence, the words "buildings requesting"
should be inserted before "CDBG." Carlson stated that on page seven, in the second paragraph, fourth
sentence, the word "Keys" should be spelled as "Keyes."
MOTION: Gunn moved to approve the minutes for the Historic Preservation Commission's May 18, 2006
meeting, as amended, Brennan seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 7:54 p,m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
s:lpcd/minutesl2006HPCminuleslO5-2S-06.doc
Historic Preservation Commission
Attendance Record
2006
Term
Name Expires 01/19 02/9 02/22 03/16 04/13 04/27 05/04 05/11 05/18 OS/25
E. Baker 3/29/09 -- -- -- -- -- ~~ ---- ---- X X X X X
M. Brennan 3/29/08 X X OlE OlE X X X X X X
R. Carlson 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X X X
J. Enloe 3/29/06 X X OlE OlE ---- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
M. Gunn 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X X X
M. Maharry 3/29/08 X X X X X X X OlE X OlE
M. McCallum 3/29/06 X X X X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
P. Michaud 3/29109 -- -- -- -- -~ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X
J. Pardekooper 3/29/07 X X X 0 ---- -- -- -- -- ---- ---- -- --
J. Ponto 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X OlE X
M. Schatteman 3/29109 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- ----
G. Swaim 3/29/09 -- -- -- -- -- -- ---- ---- -- -- -- -- ---- ---- X
J. Weissmiller 3/29/06 0 0 0 0 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
T. Weitzel 3/29/08 X X X X X X X X X OlE
Key:
X = Present
0 = Absent
OfE = AbsentnExcused
NM = No Meeting
-- -- = Not a Member
City of Iowa City Parks & Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006 - 5:00 P.M.
Recreation Center Meeting Room B
~
FINAL I
CALL TO ORDER:
Meeting called to order at 5:00 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Craig Gustaveson, Judith Klink, Margaret Loomer, Ryan O'Leary,
Jerry Raaz, Phil Reisetter, John Watson, John Westefeld
MEMBERS ABSENT: Matt Pacha
STAFF PRESENT: Terry Trueblood, Terry Robinson
OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Sessions, Duane Swartzendruber, Rod Lehnertz, Jane Meyer,
Beth Shields, Joan Jehle
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Moved by Reisetter, seconded by Westefeld, to approve the concept of further exploration
to establish a boat house on Iowa City park land. Unanimous.
Moved by Reisetter, seconded by O'Leary. to approve the proposed $5 daily fee and the
revenue sharin!! for the Thornberry Off-Leash Do!! Park. Unanimous.
OTHER FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
Reisetter requested that the minutes be changed on pages I & 3 as follows: Moved by
Westefeld, seconded by Raaz, to accept a combination of Outlot A (2,587 square feet of land)
and fees in lieu of land for the remaining 2,367 square feet for the Hollvwood Manor Part 9
Subdivision. Watson requested that the word member be changed to representative in the first
paragraph on page 5.
Moved by Westefeld, seconded by Klink. to anprove the April 12, 2006 minutes as
amended. Unanimous.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Bob Sessions spoke to the Commission on behalf of Friends of Hickory Hill. He thanked the
Parks and Recreation Department for their response to the storm clean-up and their ongoing
support. He asked what the plans are for the Bloomington Street entrance TO Hickory Hill as a
number of trees were destroyed by the storm. He stated that there is a lot of interest from the
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 2 of 8
neighborhood to help with this project. Duane Swartzendruber said that the neighborhood is
interested in working in cooperation with Parks and Forestry Staff. Trueblood mentioned that
the City Manager has asked for a planting plan so this could fit in very well. Terry Robinson and
staff are working on that plan now. Sessions announced that there is a neighborhood meeting
scheduled for May 23 and invited and encouraged city staff and Commission members to attend.
Joan Jehle announced that they have received donations for reforestation of the park and also that
their spring plant sale proceeds will go towards reestablishing the park. Jehle stated that 85
people volunteered 4-5 hours each on April 15. Klink expressed appreciation for the work and
support from the "friends" and city staff. O'Leary asked what areas were most affected by the
storm. Sessions stated that the entrance and the east portion of the park to First Avenue received
the most damage. O'Leary suggested that this would be a great time for the Friends of Hickory
Hill to think about what they envision for the future of the park. He suggested that they look at
new ideas for getting the community to attend the park, such as outdoor recreation activities or
providing nature education programs to the community. Jehle noted that she feels that the beauty
of this park is the fact that it does not have many of the recreational type amenities that other
parks have; however, she did mention that they do already offer some educational programs (i.e.
a recent owl program that was very popular). They will continue to offer those types of
programs. Craig Gustaveson expressed his great appreciation for the Friends of Hickory Hill and
all that they do.
CONSIDER A PROPOSAL FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF IOWA TO ALLOW THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A BOAT HOUSE IN A CITY PARK:
Rod Lehnertz and Jane Meyer from the University ofIowa were present to discuss their proposal
of placing a boat house in a city park (most likely Terrell Mill). Trueblood noted that he and the
City Manager had previously met with Lehnertz and Meyer. At that meeting they wanted to
determine whether Trueblood and Atkins saw this was a possibility. Lehnertz & Meyer
expressed their preferences as either Terrell Mill Park or City Park. They presented their
proposal to the Commission in detail. Of note is that of the 24 individual UI sports, the rowing
team is the only one without a permanent facility. This facility must be placed at the banks of
the Iowa River and after investigating potential sites on University property, it was found that
access and size were insufficient and the one place they could fit this size of a facility (i.e. near
Hancher) presented a significant conflict with other campus functions. The University of Iowa
staff is very aware of the need to preserve the banks of the Iowa River. The University ofIowa
staff prefers the Terrell Mill Park site. This facility could be open for community activities as
well as the University. The University staff is also receptive to the idea of incorporating public
restrooms in this facility, eliminating the need for the City to build separate restrooms to
primarily serve the skate park. Meyer and Lehnertz mentioned that this facility could offer great
opportunities for local athletes in that the University offers 20 scholarships benefiting 75-80
student athletes. They presented the Commission with photos of boat houses from around the
United States. The design process would be reviewed by all parties involved. Commission
members asked about other location options. Lehnertz and Meyer stated that Terrell Mill Park
meets all the general needs of this facility where others do not. Gustaveson commented that
when the Skate Park was constructed there was discussion then about making this a multiuse
park and feels that this boat house would provide more opportunities to do that. Lehnertz stated
that the University is looking for ways to partner with the City and he sees this as a great
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 3 of 8
opportunity to do that. He also mentioned that while some of the photos of other boat houses are
quite elaborate; this facility would be a low-profile design so that it would not dominate the
river, but become part of the landscape. Raaz asked if Terrell Mill would provide enough land
for such a project. Lehnertz & Meyer stated this is yet to be:: determined. At this point, they are
looking to the commission for approval of the concept plan only. Westefeld suggested that when
presenting this concept to Council to be sure and mention the fact that this will serve as an
outreach to the community and the fact that it would encourage young women athletics.
Moved bv Reisetter. seconded bv Westefeld. to approve the concept of further exploration
to establish a boat house on Iowa City park land. Unanimous.
CONSIDER PROPOSED DAILY FEES AND REVENUE SHARING FOR THE
THORNBERRY OFF-LEASH DOG PARK:
At the January II, 2006 Commission Meeting, the Commission approved the annual pass fees
of $25.00 and the 90%/10% revenue sharing proposed by DogPAC. However, in preparing the
resolution for the May 2nd Council meeting, it was discovered that the proposed daily fees were
never brought to the Commission for consideration. DogPAC is proposing a daily fee of $5.
Their justification for this fee are as follows: I) Cedar Rapids charges this fee, 2) people are
more likely to have a $5 bill available rather than three or four $1 bills, 3) and while they want
the fee to be low enough to encourage use, they also want it high enough to discourage the
community users to opt to pay the daily fee rather than the annual pass fee. Westefeld asked
Trueblood if there were any staff concerns about this fee. Trueblood stated that they had no
concerns and are agreeable to this proposal. Trueblood indicated that some council members may
have concerns regarding the 90%/10% revenue split between DogPAC and the City. He stated
that the majority of the 90% revenue cut (going to DogPAC) would go back into park
improvements while the other 10% would go into the City's general fund. Trueblood will be
drawing up an agreement regarding this revenue split for Council approval. This proposed
agreement will go through 2007 with a re-evaluation scheduled at that time. Klink expressed
some concern that if fees are too high it may deter people from purchasing a pass and letting
their dogs run loose at other parks, etc. Beth Shields noted that there will be a low-income
discount on the annual passes. O'Leary asked Shields if DogP AC had considered an annual pass
only. Shields stated they want to provide the opportunity for a daily pass to those who are
visiting, traveling through Iowa City, or want to try the park out before purchasing an annual
pass. The Dog Park is scheduled to open on June 17, 2006.
Moved bv Reisetter. seconded bv O'Leary. to approve the proposed $5 dailv fee and the
revenue sharinl! for the Thornberrv Off-Leash DOl! Park. Unanimous.
REPORT ON TORNADO DAMAGE AND CLEANUP EFFORTS:
Robinson reported significant tree loss. He stated that there have been at least 140 street trees
removed, many more removed in South Hickory Hill Park as well as 19 large trees at College
Green Park. The stumps have been cataloged and will be removed. He also mentioned that there
had previously been a bid placed on stump removal prior to the tornado damage. The company
has agreed to remove the tornado-related stumps at the bid price. Robinson spoke of the concern
by residents when some trees are being removed, as they do not understand that this decision is
based on the fact that, although these trees may not look bad, they are not structurally sound.
The City has contracted with Holiday Wrecker and Knolls Tree Service to remove the last large
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 4 of 8
tree out of the creek. Tree planting will start this fall. There have been a number of donations
offered. O'Leary announced that the Optimist club would like to make donations towards
restoration of College Green Park. Trueblood stated how proud he is of city staff including
Parks, Forestry, Recreation and the other City departments with respect to the tornado response
efforts.
DISCUSSION OF NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE DISTRICTS:
Trueblood distributed a revised N.O.S. map showing the various districts to the Commission.
Trueblood reviewed Neighborhood Open Space policy with the Commission, namely that if fees
are paid in lieu of land, that money has to be spent in the same district for park development or
acquisition but not for maintenance. The plan itself will need to be updated in the future.
O'Leary asked Trueblood to clarify the policy regarding the expiration dates for spending these
fees by the City. Trueblood explained that it used to be that if the fees were not expended in the
allotted amount of time, residents in that particular development would have to request the
refund. It has now been changed where if the money has not been spent in that time period, the
City is responsible to refund the money to the people who are living in that development Klink
mentioned that the residents should be given the opportunity to donate that money back to the
Parks Foundation. Commission agreed that this is a good idea.
UPDATE ON RECREATION CENTER WINDOW PROJECT:
The window project bid opening took place on May 2 to replace all of the windows in the
Recreation Center. Only two bids were received and both were approximately $150,000 over the
engineer's estimate of $500,000. Typically in this case the City Council could not approve this
project because it is 30% over the estimate. Staff, City Manager, and City Engineer want to go
ahead with the project, however, it will now be based largely on what is received by insurance.
It is estimated that insurance will cover approximately one-quarter of the cost and the rest can be
covered by the budget. This is not definite at this point.
Trueblood also noted that the Recreation Center incurred approximately $720,000 damage from
the tornado on April 13. The insurance adjuster recommended a total roof replacement rather
than repairs only. The Recreation Center Pool will reopen on Monday, May 15.
DISCUSSION OF MASTER PLAN
Trueblood reported that Coralville is not interested in a joint master plan. He also mentioned that
he would like to get University involvement in the process. Klink expressed her wish to get all
of Johnson County involved. Trueblood noted that the next step is to write a request for proposal
to distribute to consultants. Gustaveson encouraged Commission Members to look at other
Master Plans to get an idea of the work that goes into these.
CITY PARK ANNIVERSARY REPORT:
Trueblood noted that the plans are moving ahead for this celebration. AARP has a number of
events scheduled in this park for the month of May. The bands for the June 10 Family Fun Day
have been scheduled. The next planning meeting will be held Thursday, May 18 at 2 p.m. at
City Park Shelter #8.
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 5 of 8
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
O'Leary expressed his appreciation to the Parks staff for their work towards storm cleanup and
the fact that they have been able to keep up with other projects, such as soccer park maintenance,
in this busy and challenging time. He expressed his excitement for future plans for the parks of
Iowa City including the possibility of the proposed boat house proposed.
Klink discussed an article that was in the Gazette regarding garlic mustard. She also mentioned
that the state department has a brochure on this subject. She provided the article to Tammy
Neumann to make copies for Commission. Neumann will copy and distribute with the next
Commission packet.
Raaz talked about his recent visit to London and their park areas. He passed around a photo of a
concession building that he saw there as well. He also mentioned an article in the Des Moines
Register recently that talked of the importance of making investments in outdoor recreation.
Iowa is 48th in the nation in spending for outdoor recreation. Raaz also mentioned that when
looking at the capital plan he noted that Scanlon Gym has a $45,000 debt that disappears in
2009. He asked if there is some sort of debt retirement program for this. Trueblood stated that
when the facility was built that the money was borrowed from the park land acquisition fund and
then $700,000 through general fund and $400,000 through private donations. The $45,000 that
Raaz referred to was borrowed from the landfill and this is the payback, so this portion of the
Scanlon debt will soon be retired.
CHAIRS REPORT:
Gustaveson talked about the dedication ceremony for the Angel of Hope statue in City Park.
There were approximately 200 people in attendance. Bruce Titus reported that they received 190
donations towards the statue. Gustaveson reported positive feedback regarding the statue and its
location.
DIRECTORS REPORT:
Boys Baseball Concession Building; Trueblood stated that the concession building will be open
by Monday, May 15.
Median Placement on Burlington Street: There is a proposed plan to place a median on
Burlington Street between Gilbert Street and the river. This will be landscaped with trees etc.
Turning lanes and pedestrian islands will be constructed as well if the plan is eventually
approved.
Disc Golf Course: Construction is moving along. Trueblood noted that the department did have
to bid out the equipment so made for a short delay. Equipment should be arriving soon,
however.
Iowa River Power Bridge & Dam Ribbon Tving; May 17, 6 p.m. All Commissioners are invited.
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 6 of 8
Tree Planting Donations: The Human Resources Department initiated a donation opportunity for
city employees. They raised $1,855 from city employees.
Rededication of Bovs Baseball Clubhouse: This is planned for some time in June. Trueblood
will inform Commission of date when available.
Moved bv Raaz. seconded bv Reisetter to adjourn. Uuanimous. The meeting was adjourned
at 7:15 p.m.
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 7 of 8
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2006
TERM
NAME EXPIRES 1/11 2/8 3/8 4/12 S/10 6/7 7/12 8/9 9/13 10/11 11/8 12/13
Craig
Gustaveson 1/1/07 X X X X X
.
Judith
Klink 111/07 OlE X X OlE X
Margaret
Loomer 1/1/08 X X X X X
Ryan
O'Leary 1/1/10 X X X X X
Matt
Pacha 1/ 1/09 X X X OlE OlE
Jerry
Raaz 1/1/08 X X X X X
Phil
Reisetter 111/09 OlE X OlE X X
John 1/1/07
Watson X OlE X X X
John
Westefeld 1/1/10 X X X X X
KEY: X= Present
0= Absent
OlE = Absent/Excused
NM= No meeting
Parks and Recreation Commission
May 10, 2006
Page 8 of 8
LQ=
No meeting due to lack of qnornm
Not a Member
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2006
EMMAJ. HARVAT HALL
APPROVE~) I
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Michael Brennan, Richard Carlson, Michael Gunn, Jim Ponto, Tim
Weitzel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Maharry
STAFF PRESENT: Sunil Terdalkar
OTHERS PRESENT: Helen Burford, Jeff Clark, Sheliey McCafferty, Mark McCallum, Cindy the House
Corporation President from Alpha Chi Omega Sorority
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Weitzel called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA: There was none.
ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION:
Certificates of Aoorooriateness:
929 Iowa Avenue. Terdalkar said that the Commission considered this application at the previous week's
meeting. He stated that some of the items were not on that application, so the Commission is
reconsidering them with information that will give enough details to write a certificate. He said that the
applicant has provided some more information regarding what the openings will be and the dimensions.
Terdalkar said that the Commission still needs the dimensions of the profile of the slider doors that are to
be installed.
McCafferty said that the drawings provided to Terdalkar show what the owner wants to do with the brick
fagade - the portion that was damaged and then removed. McCafferty said she tried to look at the original
drawings and incorporate that pattern with the stripe and the banding. Weitzel said that the drawings
show a very prairie style buiiding originally in the design. McCafferty showed a sample of the bricks that
she would use for the building and said that although she could not match the texture or size, she got
pretty good matches on the color.
McCafferty said that, related to finishes and cladding, on the top floor inside the courtyard, there was
originally T111 siding. She said that Clark, the owner, would like to replace that T111 with fiber cement
board clapboard. McCafferty said that based on the era of the house, eight inches would be a common
exposure for houses of that vintage.
Weitzel said that the top floor had basically a 1970s vertical siding. McCafferty confirmed this and said
that it doesn't really last a long time.
Terdalkar said the drawings show an additional window on the front elevation. McCafferty said that would
be covered up; all the bathroom windows have been covered up. She said that all the bathroom windows,
which are located on the back of the courtyard with a few in the front, were covered so that vents could be
added. McCafferty said the applicant would just brick over that bathroom window. Clark pointed out that
they were covered up before the storm.
Terdalkar suggested that windows be added on the side elevation in the living rooms. McCafferty said
that Clark would be looking to see if that was okay structurally. Clark said that he has a time frame in
which to complete this. He said he would be going in and gutting out everything in the lower units, and he
did not want to do that if he didn't need to. Weitzel said, for clarification, that staff has proposed a couple
of changes in the design, but the applicant does not want to make the changes.
McCafferty said that Clark proposes to change out all the windows, as long as he has to change the
damaged windows anyway. McCafferty said the windows would be aluminum windows made by Quaker,
and Clark would like to use stock sizes where possible, instead of doing custom sizes, although some
openings would require custom sizes because the window openings are too small. McCafferty said the
owner would also like to install patio doors where there are currently picture windows. She referred to the
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 2
picture windows that are inside the courtyard and said the opening will actually have to be smaller, so she
proposes to brick up the sides with the new colored terra cotta brick. McCafferty said that on the front
there is also a picture window and a door, and the owner wants to put a patio door there, with terra cotta
colored brick on one side.
Terdalkar said the Commission requested that there be a wider profile for the doors, not just thin sections.
McCafferty asked if it should be the same as the window or two inches or what. Terdalkar said not just
two inches, but something that will replicate the bottom rail for the doors. Clark said that if it is possible,
he would be willing to go with the wider rail. He stated that he likes the aluminum doors, because they
don't get beat up like the other types.
Terdalkar said that the metal on the patio door design looks very flimsy. He suggested that there be a
better profile. Weitzel said the comment he heard was that they are a thin, banded shiny material and
don't match the building very well. Terdalkar said that if they are painted, that would be an added benefit.
McCafferty said they come in colors.
Clark said he would not have a problem with it if they can be made that way. He said he did not want to
use wood or vinyl for the sliding patio doors, because they don't hold up very well. Clark asked, if they
can be made of aluminum and he can widen that, what would be the suggestion for the width. Weitzel
said it was suggested that the bottom rail be taken and applied equally. Terdalkar said that wouid be
three to four inches, and he would like to see that all the way around. Ciark said that if he can get them
that way, he wouid buy them that way. Weitzel said that if the Commission agreed, the motion could be
written to have that detail approved by staff and the chair.
McCafferty said that on page four, the windows located along the courtyard side are larger than the ones
in the back side. She said that in order to use a standard unit, she would have to put some inflll panels in
it. She said they would be painted the sandstone color.
Terdalkar asked if there is a reason for reducing the size of the windows. McCafferty said they would like
to get standard windows off the shelf to minimize the amount of customization to be done. She said that
where there are single double hungs, that will have to be a custom size, because the opening is too short
and a standard size can't be used. Weitzel asked if the windows to be filled in are on mostly on the
interior elevations of the courtyard. McCafferty responded that those are mostiy on the inside courtyard.
She said that the courtyard size is a larger opening than the rest of the building.
Terdalkar said that the windows on the outer elevations would also be changed, and McCafferty
confirmed this. She said that is where the egress windows are needed. Weitzel asked what happens on
the east and west elevations. McCafferty said they would have to use custom windows, and there would
be no change in the openings there.
McCafferty said there would be changes with the picture windows, the inside courtyard twin double hung
windows, and patio doors and the double hung windows, and everything else would be the same. She
said that the double hung windows would have muntin bars the same. McCafferty said that where there
are sliders instead of double hungs, there would be a simulated checkrail.
McCafferty said there is not the effect of the original design, because of the aluminum storms in front of
them. She said this will give it some more detail.
McCafferty said that on the upper floor of the courtyard, because the owner is changing out the T111, the
size of the opening will actually be the same as the new windows. She said that the extra fillers are only
required on the lower and the brick that's on the side of the patio doors, where there is masonry opening.
MOTION: Ponto moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 929 Iowa
Avenue with the following: replacement of the T board with fiber cement board, replacement of the
damaged brick, replacement of the east and west living room picture windows with patio doors
with fill in brick, replacement of the north living room combination door/windows with patio doors
with fill in brick, replacement of windows with the gaps filled in with wood filler panels,
replacement of other windows with windows of the same size, and replacement of courtyard
double hung windows with slider windows.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 3
Carlson asked if the double hung windows to be replaced with sliders would be the ones just on the 2nd
floor. Terdalkar said they would be the windows on the second floor without the filler and with the filler on
the first floor. Carlson asked if there is a total of only six in the entire building. McCafferty replied that
there are also some as one faces Iowa Avenue where the wing projects out, on the inside of the wings.
Carlson seconded the motion.
Carlson said that his one quibble with this is that the blocking down of both the door and window
openings doesn't look that great, even though this is a non-historic building, and the Commission can
allow a lot of latitude. Weitzel said the germane question is if this would detract from the neighborhood.
He said that even if the building is non-historic, the Commission gets to review that standard.
Carlson said he thought that all of the window and door guidelines would still come into play, because this
is a historic district. Weitzel agreed there are no exceptions for materials on a modern building in a
historic district. Terdalkar discussed exceptions for changing the size in this case. Carlson said that a
door opening can be blocked down to fit a modern door, but there is no prohibition for blocking down
windows to accommodate modern windows.
Weitzel said that on a historic building, it would look odd to use blocking down to make a window smaller.
He said he thought the intent was to not allow standard window sizes if it would make the building look
worse. Carlson stated that, in his opinion, this would make the building a little worse, but he said it was up
to the Commission to decide if it would look enough worse to deny the windows.
Weitzel said he and Terdalkar discussed the elaborate plans for this building and what it was originally
going to look like. Weitzel said the plans were never executed, so the building never reached its full
potential.
McCafferty said that the three criteria that apply, from page 11 of the handbook state: does not further
detract from the historic character of the neighborhood, does not create a false historic character, and is
compatible with the style and character of the non-historic property.
Ponto said he thought this would be okay. Baker said she also thought this was okay. She said she had
similar concerns as Carlson but did not feel this was tremendously worse. Carlson said he was
expressing concerns without expressing opposition. Gunn said he agreed with Carlson.
The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
811 Yo East Colleoe. McCallum, the owner of the property, said there is a little carriage house behind the
sanitarium property that he owns. He said the carriage house has steel siding on the second floor and
was historically built from salvage. McCallum said that before the sanitarium was built in 1927, there was
a Victorian house, so parts of the sanitarium used salvage from the Victorian house. He said that some of
the bricks on the carriage house are burnt, so he believes that occurred in the fire that destroyed the main
building.
McCallum said the building does not have any architectural style except a hybrid of what was used. He
stated that the upper level underneath the steel siding appears to be a wood shake. McCallum said one
option is to paint the steel siding, although his inclination is to peel the siding off to see what is under the
wood. He said that if the wood shakes underneath are in good shape, he may not have to replace them.
McCallum showed photographs of the carriage house. He said that if the wood shakes underneath show
something unexpected, then he will probably peel that off and then reside it, probably with the thin
shakes.
McCallum said that there are exterior entrances off of a stairway that go up to the second fioor of the
carriage house. He said that right now they have steel slab doors. McCallum said he can paint the slab
door and leave it, but architecturally he would prefer an atrium door. He said, however, that he is
concerned about using atrium doors because the tenants may not feel secure with that type of door.
McCallum said that Terdalkar has proposed doing a little trellis over the tramway on the back side of the
buiiding. McCallum said he is probably leaning toward using six-panel doors, because the doors inside
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 4
the apartments are raised, six-panel doors, but it would be an improvement over the 70s slab door that is
there now.
McCallum said that when he pulls the trim around the windows, depending on what he finds, he might try
to widen the trim boards to create a more defining feature. He said he doesn't know if part of the trim
board is covered up already. McCallum said there are Marvin wood storms on the main building, but this
building has metal storms. He said he may later use Marvin wood storms on the carriage house to give it
more definition. He said these are all original windows.
McCallum said that on the west side of the building, there is a doorway that is locked shut, because there
are no stairs to the door but there is a three-foot drop outside of the door. He said the door has no
functional use, but it is a prairie style door that is kind of interesting looking. McCallum said that he may
just rebrick the doorway and fill it in. He said it is sort of a safety issue. McCallum said if he could figure
out a way of doing a little step up to it, he might consider keeping it.
McCallum said he is open to suggestions and would like to add some architectural interest to the building.
Weitzel asked when this building was constructed. McCallum said he believes this was built before the
sanitarium was built. Weitzel asked if the overhang is an addition. McCallum said that he believes the
overhang was already there. He said that originally the downstairs was just a garage, but the building has
gone through an evolution of additions and deletions.
Weitzei asked if the sanitarium was built in 1926. McCallum said he had heard varying dates, including
1927 and 1929. He said that both buildings were built with salvage, but he believes the carriage house
was built entirely from saivage.
Weitzel asked if the style of the building has been altered or if it has always looked like this. He asked if it
is a very modern building, with the glass block, overhang, and narrow windows, or if it has been
significantly modified. Weitzel suggested that 1926 was a late date for keeping horses so that this was
probably an automobile garage to begin with.
McCallum said this was always referred to him as a carriage house by the previous landlord, but it was
built as a garage. Weitzel said it was probably a modern style building from the beginning. McCallum
confirmed this and said that the glass block was added where the garage doors used to be. He stated
that the doubie hung windows on the lower level to the east were filled in and added as well.
Weitzel said that this then is a very modern style building, art modere and from a kind of art deco-y
period. He said that since this is a modern building, McCallum might want to drop the six-panel door to go
with a two-panel or perhaps one large panel to fit more with a late 20s or early 30s building.
McCallum said he could get such a door, but on the interior, there are six-panel doors. Terdalkar said that
may because they used salvage doors from the Victorian house. McCallum said he could go with
whatever the Commission approves and said that it would be better than a 70s slab door. He said that his
long-term plans include enclosing the courtyard, in which case he would go with more of an atrium door.
Carlson said that he felt this plan was fine with the possible exception of bricking in the west doorway.
McCallum said he is not committed to that but is anticipating HIS telling him to remove that door at some
point. He said he could wait until that time and then come back before the Commission. McCallum said
that there is a three-foot dropoff out of the door, but there is no way to put a set of steps there without
blocking the staircase to the basement. Carlson asked if there is a way to make the door secure without
moving the entire opening. McCallum said he has secured it shut and locked it with a double-sided
dead bolt. Carlson and Weitzel said that should be enough.
Ponto said he was okay with everything in the application. He said he was okay with not blocking the door
for now and waiting to see what happens with future inspections.
MOTION: Carlson moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 811 Y.
East College Street, as proposed, for all presented options, with the exception of bricking in the
west door way. Ponto seconded the motion.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 5
Carlson stated that there was some discussion about a different door style that might be more
appropriate. McCallum asked if Weitzel's suggestion would be for a two-paneled door with a window.
Weitzel said that could be done with a privacy window or frosted glass.
Carlson said he believes that a six-paneled door would look kind of colonial on a non-colonial building.
McCallum said part of the input would come from tenants and what they would be comfortable with.
Carlson said he wouid leave the two options, unless someone wanted to amend the motion.
The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
McCallum presented each Commission member with a packet updating what he would like to eventually
bring before the Commission. He showed a picture of his parking lot and said this was a philosophical
discussion. McCallum asked the Commission members if the parking lot is what the Comprehensive Plan
had in mind for a historic district. He said he did not think so.
McCallum showed a photograph of the building that used to be located at 819 College Street, the site of
the empty parking lot, that has since been moved to a location on Kimball Road. He said that the parking
lot was constructed in the mid 80s, when the property was developed as a sorority house. McCallum said
that because there was no parking, the sorority house bought both properties, removed the house, and
built the parking lot to accommodate the sorority property. He said he therefore has 33 parking spaces,
and since then, the other building has been converted back to an apartment building. McCallum said that
the downzoning of the property prevents him from doing almost anything on that property except a
parking lot.
McCallum said he suggested doing a gatehouse here to Terdalkar, because a gatehouse is an accessory
use to a parking lot. McCallum said he has since learned that he cannot have an accessory structure until
there is a primary structure. He said the issue is that he has a building that at one time housed 45
women. McCallum said that now the building has 17 bedrooms and 13 units. He said that under the
special provisions, he may go to Planning and suggest that, if the sanitarium is eligible for landmark
status, he could possibly get landmark status put on the parking lot, in the same way that moving the
Clinton Street house would have allowed an occupancy use for the building. Terdalkar said that the
sanitarium is a landmark eligible property.
McCallum said that he Is looking at this from several angles. He wondered, if he could get landmark
status for the sanitarium at 811 College, if he could then re-grandfather and get an exemption from the
dimensional standards required for parking and then redevelop and recreate the house that was originally
on the lot.
McCallum said he is just throwing this out in a philosophical way, because no matter what kind of
landscaping he does with the lot, it won't take away the big gaping whole on College Street that is his
parking lot. He said that he will be talking to Planning and Zoning and the Board of Adjustment about this.
McCallum said the language on page 47 of the new zoning code would not allow him to do this project in
some way or another, although he thought it might, but he was not sure. He said he would like to have
this reviewed to see what can be done.
McCallum said he understands that zoning laws are designed to downzone to prevent people from
overdeveloping these neighborhoods. He said, however, that it shouldn't be there, nor should the
Comprehensive Plan be there, to stop putting back what was there originally. McCallum said that a well-
intentioned property owner who wants to do something other than 8,000 square feet of asphalt should not
be penalized. He said that he is talking about a small 1 ,200 square foot house.
McCallum said ihat another thought would be to designate this lot as a receptor site for another house
that would be threatened by demolition. He said that the obstacle is the fact that the timing of it is fairly
immediate. McCallum said that he won't have the iuxury of time, should another house like this become
available.
Weitzel said the issue though is that there are zoning codes. He stated that the other boards beyond the
Commission have to make these decisions. Weitzel said one of the things that triggered allowing a
building to move onto that lot at all is the fact that a special exception can be granted to a landmark.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 6
Weitzel said that not any building could be moved there, and he did not even know if a building couid be
constructed here, based on the new development code. He said that what should be discussed is if
McCallum has a design that the Commission could say it would not be opposed to before he moves on.
McCallum said what he is proposing is to see if there is some level of support for this general concept and
to look at specifically the sections that affected historic preservation when the zoning code was rewritten.
He said he is asking to empower the Board of Adjustment to make distinctions.
Weitzel said the Commission cannot make that kind of change. He said that McCallum would have to
work with the Planning Department and other boards and possibly have this passed by City Council.
McCallum said the Historic Preservation Commission should have the ability to make recommendations
to the Planning and Zoning Commission and to Pianning staff. Weitzel said that the Commission can't
change that right now.
McCallum said that last year the Commission was told that it had to accept what it would but could
change things later. Weitzel said that the Commission isn't the body to change things, as this is not in the
range of things the Commission is empowered to do.
McCallum said he is wanting to do something interesting for the larger good and checking to see if there
is any support for it. Weitzel said that if McCallum wanted to know if the Commission thought building a
new house there was appropriate or if he had a design to be reviewed, that would be in the Commission's
purview, but the Commission can't change the ordinance.
McCallum said he would be seeking clarification of the current zoning code, because he is not sure that
the current language would allow this to happen. He questioned if he got landmark status, if that would be
enough.
Weitzel said that if the property as it stands becomes a landmark, then the Commission would have to
consider what impact an adjacent building would have on the landmark status of the sanitarium. He said
that landmark status would not necessarily give permission to build something there; that isn't the way it
works.
Carlson said that the Commission could come to a consensus that it would be appropriate to have a
historically appropriate building on that site. McCallum said that is the idea he Is putting out. He said that
if everything is in place, he would be willing to reconstruct a replica of what was there prior to 1985, to
bring back the College Street fa(fade that was there before. McCallum said he would also be willing to
redesign his driveway and use this as a receptor site, and then put lawn in where a future house could go
that would be endangered.
Weitzel said that any new building to be moved onto the site would have to be significant enough to be a
landmark. McCallum said he agreed and said the reason for doing that is it would be eliminating all the
steps he would have to go through while contractors wait to do the work. He said then there would be the
landmark status in place for the sanitarium and the lot, and he could move more quickly on those
situations.
Weitzel said the Commission can't really do anything about the development code. McCallum said he
believes that the Commission can make recommendations and put bugs in the ears of those who make
those decisions. Weitzel said that if McCallum wanted to make that case, he would want to talk to staff
about it to find out the appropriate channels to go through.
McCallum suggested the Commission think about it. Weitzel said the Commission could discuss whether
it could design the lot for a new building to come in the future and what it is that the Commission would
allow.
McCallum said that there are two separate lots here. Terdalkar said the only way the lots are connected is
the fact that the parking requirement for the sanitarium is satisfied on the other lot. He said that if the
parking area is reduced, the City would want to make sure that the parking requirements for the
apartments are fulfilled.
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May 11, 2006
Page 7
McCallum said that the sanitarium never had any parking historically, aside from the carriage house.
Terdalkar said that plan was from the 1920s. McCallum said the Board of Adjustment has the ability to
exempt the parking requirements of the sanitarium, which might pave the way for the separate lotto then
be redeveloped. Weitzel said the Board of Adjustment has to have a good reason to make an exemption.
McCallum said the plan before the Commission would have enough to satisfy the parking needs for both
buildings, according to the current code.
Weitzel said that as it is drawn, there are two lots, one of which is primarily a parking lot. He said that
makes the lot basically contingent on being a parking lot for the building next door, because the building
next door has no parking.
McCallum said this is a building with one and two-bedroom apartments that could be converted to four-
bedroom units according to the current zone to maximize it out more fully. He said that if someone
wanted to pave the area between the main building and the carriage house for parking, that could be
done, although he would not do it. McCallum said he did not know that he would be the owner of this
property forever to prevent someone else from doing something like that later.
Weitzel said the Commission is really discussing whether it would allow a building to be here. He said he
believes that is already tacitly approved, because the Commission already discussed moving a building
there. Weitzel said the question now is whether the Commission would allow a new structure to be built
there or would it only accept a compatibly styled existing building to be moved onto that lot. He said that
is basically the Commission's precedent; it decided that a building that meets the neighborhood's look
and feel, its historic and stylistic qualities, could be moved there. Weitzel said that has been decided, so
the only question is whether it would allow a new building to be constructed there.
Weitzel said that building would then have to meet the Commission's standards for the look and feel of
the neighborhood. Carlson said the Commission does have guidelines for new construction. Weitzel said
he did not see any reason why the Commission would disallow an appropriate building. Carlson said he
would prefer to see a historic building that was threatened somewhere else moved here, but the
Commission has allowed both in the past, and he did not see any reason the Commission wouldn't allow
both now.
1135 East Colleae Street. Terdalkar stated that this is an application for approval of a deck at the back of
the property, the footprint of which would be 14 feet by 16 feet. He said the applicant has proposed a
basic railing design that could be improved. Terdalkar said he would suggest designing a railing of
baluster as recommended in section 4.10 of the guidelines.
MOTION: Carlson moved to defer consideration of a certificate of appropriateness for the
application for 1135 East College Street.
Carlson said the guidelines recommend minimizing this, perhaps by insetting it by at least eight inches.
He said it does not appear to be inset on the plan, and he would like to ask the owner if that would be
possible, because right now it would be very visible to someone coming from the east side. Terdalkar said
the criteria concerns whether it would be visible, and the railing also has to have a proper design.
Carlson said that if it is either setback or is lowered closer to the ground, it would be less obtrusive. He
said that right now, the plans do not meet the guidelines fully.
Baker seconded the motion.
Ponto asked, if the deck were inset, would there be any other problems with the plan. Weitzel said that
staff recommends that the balustrade look appropriate. Carlson said that minor tinkering could fix those
issues, but there are a couple of other issues that can't be discussed without the owner present.
Gunn asked if the setback would only be on the west. Carlson said the purpose of the setback would be
to hide the deck more from the street. He said it can't be seen at all coming from the other direction.
Weitzel said the owner could get the same square footage by going east with the deck and/or south.
Carlson said that it could also be wrapped around.
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 8
Gunn suggested the Commission approve a deck with an inset and appropriate railing. Carlson said the
Commission does not normally approve these types of changes without the owner's input. Weitzel said
the Commission could approve this, and if the owner accepts this and it is explained to him carefully, the
application wouid be complete. Terdalkar said he had no communication with the applicant to date.
Ponto said the applicant is proposing one and one-half inch square for the baluster. Terdalkar said it is
close, but the way it has been designed, the newel posts are stuck to the outside, and it has a fiat
handrail that could be improved to have a better profile. Weitzel said that, minimally, the posts should rise
a little bit above the rail normally, and even if they didn't, perhaps a board on either side of the spindles
would give the appearance of a covering.
Ponto said he feels this is pretty ciose. He said it just needs a little work that he would give discretion to
staff and the chair to work out. Ponto said he had no major probiem with this but said there are just some
minor adjustments to be made to be consistent with the guidelines.
Brennan said he would like to give the owner the fiexibility to do this. He said the owner can always come
back before the Commission if he doesn't like the results of working with the chair and staff.
Carlson withdrew the motion.
MOTION: Ponto moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project at 1135 East
College Street, subject to staff and the chair's approval of adjustments in the plan to be consistent
with the guidelines, including but not limited to the setback and the design of the baluster.
Gunn asked if painting is required in a case like this. Terdalkar said it is required to be painted if it is
highly visible from the street. Carlson said it is a judgment call in this case. Weitzel said that the cedar
would weather to a nature gray in any event. Carlson asked if any pressure treated wood would be visible
from the street. Weitzel said that perhaps the back column might be visible. Carlson said that was not
significant. He said that the raised parts would be seen from the street.
Brennan seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 6-0.
Consideration of the Aoril 27. 2006 Historic Preservation Commission meetino minutes:
MOTION: Carlson moved to take up from the table discussion of the April 27, 2006 meeting minutes.
Baker seconded the motion.
Weitzel said that on page five in the second paragraph, last sentence, Maharry had quoted Weitzel as
saying that anything less than 100% is a repair. Weitzel said he did not recall ever saying that, and for
clarification, he recalled that he had said that the threshold is 20%.
Weitzel said that since there are no amendments to the minutes, the consensus of the Commission is that
they are acceptable to file.
OTHER:
Aloha Chi Omeoa House:
Terdalkar said that a representative of the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority is present in the meeting, and would
like to make some comments. Cindy said she is the sorority's House Corporation President, and she was
just present to observe. She said she knew she would be coming before the Commission in future
meetings and wanted to get a feel for the process.
Weitzel asked Cindy if there were any plans for the property in the works. Cindy responded that the
structural engineers seem to think the building is a loss. She said she is now waiting for a response from
the insurance company and then they will decide if they rebuild on the foundation as it is or look forward
to something new to be designed.
Weitzel stated that there used to be one lot here, which was then subdivided into the 17 North Governor
address and the Alpha Chi Omega house lot. He said that one of the two properties was the MacBride
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 9
Pickering house. Cindy said that it was the Alpha Chi Omega house that was MacBride's family house.
Weitzel said that Keys thought the other building was the MacBride house. He added that in any case, the
Alpha Chi house was so heavily altered, it can't have any architectural or historic significance any more in
and of itself.
Cindy said that some of the wood floors are still intact, but most everything else had been redone. She
added that a historian did a survey and said the house was the Thomas MacBride house. Terdalkar said
that Marlys Svendsen did some research on the house and has provided information in a memo to the
planning director regarding the history and possible financial sources that can be used for rebuilding.
Rebuildinq Funds;
Burford said she sent an e-mail solicitation and received two responses so far that raised $450. She said
the issue involves raising larger sums. Burford said she is looking at other opportunities.
Burford said that she is in the process of preparing a letter to the community. She said she has heard
some comments questioning why money could still be needed knowing what the State emergency HRDP
funding is. Burford said that if she is going to send a solicitation, she would benefit from having specific
dollar numbers and indications regarding specific buildings and the gap between the amount required to
rebuild and the insurance adjustments. She said that makes a much stronger argument. Burford said
there is a perception that the money in the emergency fund is just for a few houses.
Weitzel said that it was settled that the money would go toward 20 homes. Terdalkar said that with the
cap that the emergency fund has already, the money would only be sufficient for about 16 houses. He
said that the College Block building alone will take $300,000 or more as an estimate. Terdalkar said the
insurance gap is huge for that building, as the repiacement cost is over one million dollars. Weitzel said
the building was insured for about $800,000.
Terdalkar said that the Crescent Block building where the Soap Opera is located is also a National
Register eligible property. He said it would take another $100,000 or more. Terdalkar said the City is
discussing how to allocate the money to prioritize the allocation to those who need it and how to fill in the
gap between the insurance proceeds and what is required to do what is right in terms of historic
preservation and what is required to keep the historic character.
Burford said that is also what the National Trust is about - filling the gap in order to do what is right.
Terdalkar said that the HRDP emergency grant is restricted in that only National Register properties or
National Register eligible properties can be given that money. He said that therefore the properties that
were damaged in the historic districts will be automatically eligible. Terdalkar said that someone will still
have to come up with the money for damaged properties in conservation districts, which are outside of
the grant.
Terdalkar added that there are many properties on Rochester, Hotz and Parsons that suffered damage.
He said that very few of those properties would be individually eligible properties. Terdalkar said that the
State allocation would therefore not be sufficient for all the damaged properties in the historic or
conservation districts. Weitzel said that the City could have easily used one million dollars for damage
repair.
Terdalkar said that one could prioritize by categories such as owner occupied, contributing structures, key
contributing structures, and structures that need repairing of the wood siding or can use fiber cement
board siding instead of using vinyl or aluminum siding. He said that if there is not enough funding, there
will be a need to prioritize in some way.
Burford said that it has to be explained that the City received the seed money from the National Trust and
some seed money that is very specific from the State, but the need is far greater. Weitzel said there
should be another press release indicating what the money entails, what it's for, how it's going to be
spent, and the fact that private contributions from the general public are needed.
Terdalkar said he is working with the State grant coordinator and is expecting some response from the
State about how the allocation will be done. Weitzel said that it will probably be through the regular HRDP
emergency fund application process. He said there would be a review of the building to see if it qualifies
Historic Preservation Commission Minutes
May 11, 2006
Page 10
for funding. Weitzel said that HRDP will then determine how much funding it will give to each property, so
everyone will have to apply individually. He said that it is certainly not a no strings attached grant, but the
good thing is that it is not an annual competitive thing; once the funds become available July 1 st, everyone
can apply at once, and then the applications will just be processed.
Burford said that with the National Trust money, the Commission is the arbiter for the funds. Burford said
that Friends of Historic Preservation has agreed to make the $5,000 match in order to receive the
National Trust money.
Weitzel said that although the press has reported that $250,000 would be made available, an average
house in Iowa City costs about that much. Burford said that what is missing form the story is how much
damage was done, such as the fact that the College Block building alone is short $300,000. Weitzel said
those figures have only become known since the adjustments have become available. He said that now it
is becoming more apparent what the damage is. Weitzel said that he did not believe the City is going to
get the FEMA declaration so will not have access to money from that source.
Burford asked for the Commission to continue to feed her information about the costs so that the appeal
is stronger. Weitzel suggested that Burford work with Terdalkar on a memo.
Ponto said that a few people might have the perception that the money may be going to landlords who
don't really need it. He suggested that the appeal be broad based. Weitzel said that the Commission
would do another press release. Terdalkar said that he is just waiting for particulars from the State.
Weitzel said that for now, it can be said that the damage is much worse than most people perceive. He
said that one house on Summit Street is worth more than the funds received. Terdalkar stated that the
Christian Science Church with the red tiles will need substantial money just to replace those tiles.
Terdalkar stated that Marlys Svendsen plans to hold two public meetings in iate June, the week of the
26th He said that the planning associates from Colorado will also be here during that week on Monday,
Tuesday, and Wednesday. Terdalkar said that Svendsen has requested a meeting with the Commission
when the consultants are here, so she would like to know what the availability of the Commission
members is during that week. Weitzel suggested Terdalkar get the details to the Commission, and
Commission members will respond with their availability.
Burford said that on June 27'", there will be an evening social event with the people from Clarion
Associates. She said that the entire Commission is invited. Carison said there would need to be notice of
a public meeting if a quorum attends the event. Terdalkar confirmed this.
Terdalkar said there were currently no more applications for Commission review. He said that if a storm-
related application is submitted, the Commission could hold a meeting next week if a quorum would be
available.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 7:41 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
s:lpcd/minuteslHPCf2006l05-11.QS.doc
Historic Preservation Commission
Attendance Record
2006
Term
Name Expires 01/19 02/9 02/22 03/16 04/13 04/27 05/04 05/11
E. Baker 3/29/09 -- .- -- -- -- -- ---- -- -- X X X
M. Brennan 3/29/08 X X OlE OlE X X X X
R. Carlson 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X
J. Eulue 3/29/06 X X OlE OlE -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
M. Guon 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X
M. Maharry 3/29/08 X X X X X X X OlE
M. McCallum 3/29/06 X X X X -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
J. Pardekooper 3/29/07 X X X 0 -- -- -- -- ---- -- --
J. Ponto 3/29/07 X X X X X X X X
M. Schatteman 3/29/09 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X -- -- -- -- -- --
J. Weissmiller 3/29/06 0 0 0 0 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
T. Weitzel 3/29/08 X X X X X X X X
Key:
X = Present
0 = Absent
OlE = AbsentlExcused
NM = No Meeting
-- -- = Not a Member
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