HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-08-22 Correspondence
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CITY OF IOWA CITYIJ:lO
MEMORANDUM
Re:
August 16, 2006
City Clerk
Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering Planner~\.......
Item for August 22, 2006 City Council meeting; Installation of additional BUS STOP
signs to reflect changes in transit routes.
Date:
To:
From:
As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 3B of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council
of the following action.
Action:
Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A(19), install Iowa City Transit BUS STOP signs at the following
Locations: Park Road & Beldon Avenue, Park Road & Normandy Drive, River Street & Woolf
Avenue.
Comment:
This action is being taken to reflect additional changes in Iowa City Transit routes.
jccogadmlagdfbusstop-signs .doc
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CITY OF IOWA CITYc::J
MEMORANDUM
Date: August 16, 2006
To: City Clerk
From: Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering Planner~
Re: Item for August 22,2006 City Council meeting; Removal of Handicap Parking at 813
Ronalds Street. Reinstate NO PARKING MON-WED-FRI 8-5 parking.
As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1. Section 38 of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council
of the following action.
Action:
Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A (14) (10); Remove (2) handicap reserved parking signs with arrows
at 813 Ronalds Street. Reinstate NP MWF 8-5 in this area.
Comment:
This action is being taken given that an elderly individual no longer resides at 813 Ronalds
Street.
jccogadm/agd/ronalds-noprking. doc
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
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Date: August 16, 2006
To: City Clerk
From: Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering Planner\4l
Re: Item for August 22, 2006 City Council meeting; Installation of NO PARKING ANY
TIME signs on the west side of Brentwood Drive between Anna Street and York
Place
As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 3B of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council
of the following action.
Action:
Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A (10); Install (3) NO PARKING ANY TIME signs on the west side of
Brentwood Drive between Anna Street and York Place.
Comment:
This action is being taken to allow adequate lane space for Iowa City Transit buses on their new
route.
jccogadmlagd/BrentwoodSigns. doc
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CITY OF IOWA CITY~
MEMORANDUM
Date: August 16, 2006
To: City Clerk
From: Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering PlannerLft.
Re: Item for August 22, 2006 City Council meeting; Installation of NO PARKING
BE1WEEN SIGNS signs on the north side of York Place between Broadmoor Lane
and Brentwood Drive.
As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 3B of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council
of the following action.
Action:
Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A (10); Install (3) NO PARKING BE1WEEN SIGNS signs on the north
side of York Place between Broadmoor Lane and Brentwood Drive.
Comment:
This action is being taken to allow adequate lane space for Iowa City Transit buses on their new
route.
jccogadm/agdlY orKSigns ,doc
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Marian Karr
From: Dale Helling
Sent: Thursday, August 10,200610:05 AM
To: 'Christine Mullen'
Cc: Meg Kiekhaefer; Leon@shelterhouseiowa.org; ehpcmc@aol.com; Roger Jensen; 'City Council;
Steve Atkins
Subject: RE: Homeless Overflow
Dear Ms. Mullen,
In response to your question regarding the status of an ordinance amendment, that matter is currently under
review by the City Attorney and I anticipate Council will consider it further in the coming weeks. At such time as a
specific proposal is presented to Council, I will advise you.
Thank you for your continued interest and support with respect to this very important community issue.
Sincerely,
Dale Helling, Assistant City Manager
From: Christine Mullen [mailto:christine.mullen@mchsi.com]
Sent: Saturday, July 29, 2006 12: 16 PM
To: *City Council; Steve Atkins
Cc: Meg Kiekhaefer; Leon@shelterhouseiowa.org; ehpcmc@aol.com; Roger Jensen
Subject: Homeless Overflow
The issue of housing the homeless in Iowa City continues. The city's count this past Wednesday, I understand,
found 20 homeless people sleeping under bridges and such. Shelter House was at capacity. We expect this
winter to be at least as busy as last winter.
The homeless overflow ran this past March under the temporary new regulation of the city (square feet per person
requirement). I have checked with people who served as volunteers in all those locations, and everything went
very smoothly. The new capacities at various churches worked just fine. We all appreciate the effort that people
made to make that happen. Many homeless were served on account of that change in the rules.
I understand the expected new ordinance to make this change more permanent has not been passed yet. If there
is anything we can do to assist in this matter, we would be happy to do so. Meg and Leon have volunteered to
provide more statistics if they are needed.
It has consistently been a pleasure to work with the cooperative and helpful people we find in the Iowa City
Council and Fire Department. All have tried make what is a difficult situation for so many, a better situation for
all. Thank you for your effort.
Christine Mullen, Chair Homeless Overflow Task Force
8/1112006
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Marian Karr
From: RussUPS@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, August 01, 2006 4:34 PM
To: 'City Council
Subject: (no subject)
I saw in the paper today the city was talking about affordable housing. I would like to know what group of
people your trying to help out. The one's that come into town from Chicago and the likes or hard working people
who struggle to by a home with the moderate paying jobs. I have found in the realtors section every week there
are homes in there that could be labeled affordable housing, those under $200,000.00 but higher than
$100,000.00. It's unfortunate that with Iowa City's high home appraisals in the past that now we face the so
called "no affordable housing" now. The fact remains that the 65% of the city budget is dependent on
residential property taxes. With the land values being what they are there is no way it can be done. Besides you
can't expect a contractor to due it for FREE. How many empty apartments are in this town that could be rented
first? Many people CAN afford a house and insurance BUT they can't afford the property taxes. You can't have
affordable housing and not have the tax burden that goes along with it.
The peopie that come into this town from Chicago and the likes come here with no skills or don't intend to try to
better themselves. This is seen with the strain on the Crisis Center, Table to Table, The Free Medical Clinic and
the Homeless Shelter. You go downtown on Friday and Saturday nights and you have people coming up to you
or sitting along the side walk and asking you for money. I hope these aren't the ones your trying to attract
because if you do they will just keep coming and put more of a strain on everything including law enforcement.
If you don't build it they won't come.
This town tries to look like the land of opportunity but all it is a town of hand outs. That's unless you have a
good job. This town needs a fire station on the north side and has needed one for a LONG time but there is
always something else that comes up. Like a $35000.00 statue or a piece of art. And how are we going to
HELP these people out with free money from the tax payers. Sorry I'm taxed out.
There are other issues like a stagnant commercial tax base, fire houses and working with developers in this
town instead of making it difficult for them with this trumped up Planning and Zoning Commission.
Russell Haught
8/1/2006
Marian Karr
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From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Brad Mowrey [bam@tvbaby.com]
Friday, August 04, 2006 11:45 AM
'City Council
regarding Coucilor Elliot's comments
In response to remarks made recently by Councilor Bob Elliot, regarding the Wal-Mart
fiasco.
I'm sorry that he is "embarrassed" by citizen action. 2erhaps he is in the wrong position?
If the deal was "legitimate", then why was it nixed by the Board of Adjustment? Why did
the Council have to rezone a flood plain? Why were citizen opinions ignored (and now
vilified)? Those are aspects of this deal that Mr. Elliot should rightfully be embarrassed
about, not citizens exercising their rights.
What is especially amusing is that Mr. Elliot considers those of us who oppose Wal-Mart's
job exporting/trade deficit policies (Wal-Mart is the
#1 importer of Chinese goods, accounting for 1/3 of the total), its low wages and bad
health insurance, its union busting and other anti-trust behavior, its documented
discrimination against female employees, and its soaking up of public subsidies while
manipulating local governments into doing its bidding, to be "overzealous Boy Scouts". I
doubt Mr.
Elliot is aware of where the actual humor lies in his comments.
"... tax subsidies Wal-Mart has received for building new stores, which Good Jobs First
places at more than $1 billion, an estimate that does not include the many other ways
taxpayers subsidize Wal-Mart stores, for instance, through numerous forms of public
assistance--Medicaid, Food Stamps, public housing--that often allow workers to subsist on
Wal-Mart's low wages. A report by the House Education and Workforce Committee
conservatively places the latter at $420,750 per store; the Wal-Mart Foundation's per-
store charitable giving is just 11 percent of that amount ($47,222)."
On the Wal-Mart Money Trail
http://www.thenation.com/docprint.mhtml?i~20051121&s~featherstone
Let us not ignore the lovely behavior of Sam Walton's fabulously wealthy children,
contributing millions to the Gap and other right wingers in an attempt to reduce their
inheritance taxes. Does Mr. Eliot also support the undermining of public schools? Wal-Mart
does.
I submit that it is the citizens of Iowa City who should be embarrassed by Mr. Elliot. The
Councilor is certainly welcome to his opinion, however misinformed, but his childish
insults are over the top. Mr.
Elliot can rest assured that his unprofessional and im~ature outburst has not gone
unnoticed.
Brad Mowrey
917 Dearborn St.
Iowa City, IA
52240
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Marian Karr
From: Ron Knoche
Sent: Monday, August 14, 2006 11 :32 AM
To: 'tceb@mchsi.com'
Cc: 'City Council
Subject: RE: Foster Road-Dubuque St. intersection renovation
Mr. Bernemann:
Thank you for your email in regards to the Foster Road and Dubuque Street Project. The City has hired a
contractor to repair the areas you mention, expect the areas above the retaining walls. The areas above the
retaining walls are private property so the City will have to work with the owners.
Sincerely,
Ronald R. Knoche, PE
City Engineer
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Phone: (319) 356-5138
Fax: (319) 356-5007
Email: ron-knoche@iowa-city.org
From: Tim [mailto:tceb@mchsi.com]
Sent: Saturday, August 12, 2006 9:30 PM
To: *City Council
Subject: Foster Road-Dubuque St. intersection renovation
Honorable member of the City Council,
I am writing for two reasons. One, to express my satisfaction with the renovation of the Foster Road-Dubuque St.
intersection. As a daily user of this intersection going to and from work I think it is a major improvement for flow of
traffic and safety. Secondly, however, I am disappointed with the ground work that was done after the
construction was completed. All along the median north and south of the intersection there is nothing but weeds
and erosion of the black top soil that was put along the median. The same can be said for the shoulder areas on
either side of the roadways, as well as the areas above the newly constructed retaining walls on either side of
Dubuque Street. I feel the City has dropped the ball regarding a full completion of this project.
Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
Tim Bernemann
Coralville, IA
8/14/2006
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The Press Citizn editorial (July 20, 2006) should b~t'wa~up
message for the Iowa City Council to investigate electri~ eneigy
alternatives before starting franchise negotiations with MidAmeri-
can Energy.
To the Iowa City Council:
;.
Technology research in renewable energy has developed remark-
able results in wind and solar energy in the field of electricity
production. MidAmerican Energy is rapidly taking over wind power
production in the state of Iowa. This fact alone should alert the
City Council to forego franchise negotiations until the following
research and study is done and reviewed by the City Council.
1. The City attorney research Chapter 476 (Public Utility Reg-
ulation) to determine viable options for the City regarding elee-
tric service.
The Iowa Utility Board determines maximum profit margin in the
electric rates for private itilities, such as MidAmerican. This
would be important information for the City Council and citizens.
Municipal utilities do not require a profit, that is why MidAmer-
ican residential electric rates are higher.
2. The engineering staff of the City do a study of electric rates
(residential, commercial and industrial) of municipalities in John-
son County and throughout Iowa for comparison with Iowa City rates.
3. The City Council explore renewable energy alternatives with
the Johnson County Council of Governments.
4. The City Council contact the Iowa League of Municipalities
for their help on this important issue of electric rates.
5. The City Council contact the University of Iowa to consider
the feasibility of a renewable energy research department that could
determine viable alternate energy production facilities.
Funding for University research could be included in the elect-
ric rates (Chapter 476.43, Rates for alternate energy production
facilities). This University research could result in a new indus-
try and employment in Johnson County.
6. The City of Iowa City spends over $2million a year for elec-
tric service from MidAmerican Energy and Eastern Iowa Light and
Power Cooperative in Wilton, Iowa.
Over 67% of electric costs are for: Streets and traffic lights
(21%), water plant (20%) and wastewater treatment (26%).
It would seem reasonable for the City engineering staff to in-
vestigate the feasibility of wind turbines for water and waste-
water facilities. Chapter 476.41 through 476.47 and Iowa DNR Energy
department are excellent sources for wind energy information.
7. The previous Electricity Franchise agreement between Iowa City
and Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company should be reviewed by
Council members before any franchise negotiations are begun with
MidAmerican Energy. Several sections in this franchise are impor-
tant for Council consideration.
a) Section 12-1-1 (Franchise Granted), This section provided a
nonexclusice right to Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Company for
electric service.
b) Section 12-1-6 (Company Obligation to Furnish Electric En-
ergy; Terms and Conditions) B.The company its successors and as-
signs is authorized to impose reasonable terms and conditions upon
the furnishing of electric service. (This may include electric rates).
c) Section 12-1-10 (Purchase of Electric Energy From Sources
other than Company), Nothing contained in the terms of this fran-
chise shall be construed to prevent the City from purchasing elec-
tric power for its facilities from sources other than the Company
and to contract for same from these sources.
d) Section 12-1-11 (Approval of Franchise City Electors) This
Ordinance(Chapter) and the rights and privileges herein granted
are subject to the approval of a majority of the electors of the
City voting at the next general or munic{pal election or at a spe-
cial election called for that purpose.
During the July 17, 2006 City Council Work Session, Terry Smith,
MidAmerican operation manager gave a presentation for a MidAmerican
Electricity Franchise. Following his presentation Council members
asked question and made comments regarding a franchise agreement.
Absent were any comments by Council members that dealt with the
importance of Iowa City residents input and participation in a fact
finding study to determine the most feasible options for electric
service.
The City Council's first responsibility and priority is to the
citizens of Iowa City and not MidAmerican Energy.
The City Council should appoint a citizen's volunteer committee
to work with the City engineering staff to determine the most cost
effective option for electric service.
On July 22, 2006 the Press Citizen had an article in the busi-
ness section on renewable energy, (Photo-voltaic power-sunlight
converted directly into electricity). The City Council might awak-
en to the 21st century, even partner with University research to
LIGHT the future of Iowa Ci~/~~~~1::."
/f;i;;n1s Saeugling\Y
Retired consulting e gineer
()
Iowa City
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IOWA
ASSOCIATION Of MUNICIPAL
UTILITIES
Dennis Saeugling
40 Arbury Drive
Iowa City, IA 52246
August 9, 2006
Dear Mr. Saeugling:
We spoke a few days ago about a list of municipal utilities in Iowa, and their respective
rates. I have included such a list for you.
As you can see, this sheet divides the rates into residential, conunercial and industrial
categories. If anything is unclear, please give me or Erin Peiffer on our staff a call.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jane Riessen
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1735 NE 70TH AVENUE
ANKENY, IOWA 50021-9353
515/289-1999
FAX, 515/289-2499
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Average Revenue per kWh, 2004 Z"'''
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(in cents) ,......,
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United States and lmfl! ;"-r~l
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Residential Commercial Industrial Total
Rev/kWh Rev/kWh R~v/kWh Rev/kWh
V.S. Utilities
Publicly Owned 8.2 7.6 5.3 7.2
Investor-Owned 9.0 8.0 5.1 7.6
Cooperative 8.3 7.7 4.8 7.4
Imrn
Publicly Owned 7.4 6.2 5.0 6.1
Investor-0wned 9.2 6.9 4.3 6.3
Cooperative 9.2 6.8 4.0 7.1
Iowa
Publicly Owned
Mton, City of 8.5 6.5 7.6
Akron, City of 6.1 7.8 6.6 6.5
Algona Municipal Utilities 5.7 5.2 5.4
Alta VISta, City of 6.7 7.4 7.0
Alta, City of 8.6 8.5 8.6
Alton Municipal Light & Power 5.6 5.4 5.5
Ames, City of 7.6 5.6 4.5 5.9
Anita Municipal Utilities 7.1 5.6 6.5
Anthon, City of 5.4 4.6 5.4 5.3
Aplington, City of 9.1 5.2 7.5
Atlan tic Municipal Utilities 5.9 5.2 3.3 5.2
Auburn, City of 8.7 8.7
Aurelia, City of 6.2 6.5 5.1 5.9
Bancroft Municipal V tility 7.5 6.8 7.0 7.1
Bellevue, City of 8.5 8.2 7.3 8.2
Bigelow, City of 5.7 5.7
Bloomfield, City of 7.3 7.9 6.3 7.1
Breda Municipal Utilities 7.3 5.4 5.3 / 6.5
Brooklyn Municipal Utilities 8.7 8.4 / 8.6
Buffalo, City of 8.8 5.6 7.2
Burt, City of 8.9 9.9 9.3
Callender, City of 8.6 6.5 8.0
Carlisle, City of 7.4 .7.6 7.5
Cascade Municipal Utilities 7.6 6.4 6.8
Cedar Falls Utilities 6.8 5.0 4.8 5.6
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Rev/kWh Rp-v/kWh Rp-v/kWh Rp-v/kwh (~ "" ; \
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Coggon Municipal Light Plant 9.6 12.5 9.2 !j;;B,':t ......,~ .~"..,)
Coon Rapids Municipal Utilities 6.2 7.6 9.7 7,"-/' r:-:>
Coming, City of 5.1 <-
5.3 5:2' Cf)
Cotwith, City of 11.0 11.2 ILl
Danville, City of 9.8 8.6 9.3
Dayton Light & Power 9.6 8.2 9,4 9.0
, Denison Municipal Utilities 5.0 4.3 3.8 4.2
Denver Municipal 7.1 8.8 6.8 7.6
Dike, City of 7.0 10,4 8.2
Durant Municipal Electric Plant 11.0 10,4 7.8 9.8
Dysart, City of 9.9 8.9 9.5
Earlville Light & Water System 9.0 9.3 9.2
Eldridge, City of 15.9 13.4 8,4 13.7
Ellsworth, City of 9.4 7.7 10.7 9.0
Estherville, City of 7.2 7.0 6.1 6.7
Fairbank, City of 7.9 8,4 8.1
Famhamville, City of 8.1 7.3 7.7
Fonda, City of 8.1 6.3 ILl 7.7
Fontanelle, City of 5.7 6.5 5.9
Forest City, City of 5.8 5.7 4.5 5.0
Fredericksburg, City of 6,4 7.2 6.8
Glidden, City of 6.1 7.0 6.5, 6.3
Gowrie Municipal Utilities 10.0 9.0 9.5
Graettinger Municipal Light Pia 6.4 6.8 6.3 6.4
Grafton, City of 6.5 5.8 6.3
Grand Junction Municipal Light 9.2 9.0 7,4 8.8
Greenfield Municipal Utilities 7.6 6;6 6.1 6.5
Grundy Center Municipal Light 7.6 7.1 6.4 7.1
Guttenberg Municipal Electri" 6.3 6.8 6.8 6.6
Harlan Municipal Utilities 8.8 8,4 5.8 7.7
Hartley, City of 5.2 5.8 5.6 5.4
Hawarden Municipal Utilities 6.8 5.5 5.4 6.0
Hinton, City of 5.9 6.8 7.8 6.7
Hopkinton Municipal Utilities 7.3 7.2 8,4 7,4
Hudson, City of 8.6 7.0 7.0 7.8,
lndependence Light & Power 9.7 8.3 6.6 7.8
Indianola Municipal Utilities 7.7 6.9 5.8 7.2
Keosauqua Light & Power 7.7 5.6 8.6 7.1
Kimballton, City of 5.5 9.1 6.3
La Porte Utilities 8.0 7.0 7.6
Lake Mills, City of 6.8 7.0 6.1 I 6.4
Lake Park, City of 7.1 6.6 5.4 I 6.1
Lake View, City of 6.6 7.0 6.6 6.7
Lamoni Municipal Utilities 8,4 7.0 10,4 7.6
Larchwood, City of 7.7 7.0 7.5
Laurens Municipal Power 4.3 . 2.3 5.1 4.5
Lawler, City of 9.1 8.3 8.8
Residential Commercial Industrial Total
Rev/kWh Rev/kWh Rev/kWh Revi1>Wh r<'
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Lehigh, City of 8.9 8.2 98.8 c....
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Lenox, City of 6.4 5.8 :7 fl.. ',- -1''1\
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livermore, Oty of 10.0 14.4 9.8 .L~.{!: .--
Long Grove Electric Co. 8.5 9.5 :S.lf
Manilla Municipal Utilities 5.2 5.7 .sf..,.. -0
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Manning Municipal Light Plant 6.6 5.9 4.1 r;?
Mapleton, City of 6.5 '-......... /'
4.6 5.0 M
Maquoketa Municipal Electric UtiI. 9.5 9.3 8.1 9!0 CO
Marathon, City of 7.5 7.9 7.7
McGregor Municipal Utilities 8.7 7.6 7.7 8.1
Milford Municipal Utilities 6.0 6.7 4.9 5.6
Montezuma Municipal Light & Power 6.8 . 7.2 5.9 6.5
Mount Pleasant Utilities 8.8 7.6 8.0
Muscatine Power & Water 7.2 5.8 4.2 4.9
Neola, City of 5.7 5.4 5.6
New Hampton Municipal Light Plant 7.0 6.9 5.1 6.0
New London Municipal Utilities 9.5 8.4 9.2
Ogden Municipal Utilities 10.0 8.5 8.5 9.4
Onawa, City of 5.5 5.5 5.5
Orange City, City of 6.3 6.4 5.1 5.5
Orient Municipal Utilities 9.4 9.4
Osage Municipal Utilities 6,1 5.4 5.6
Panora, City of 7.0 6.8 6.8
Paton, City of 9.1 10.0 9.4
Paullina Municipal Electric Utility . 6.5 5.5 6.0
Pella, City of 9.2 9.3 5.7 6.8
Pocahontas, City of 7.4 6.9 9.3 7.6
Preston, City of 8.8 8.8 8.8
Primghar, City of 8.0 7.4 7.7
Readlyn, City of 6.7 6.6 6.7
Remsen Municipal Utilities 4.9 4.4 5.7 5.0
fu!1wick, City of 7.7 7.9 7.8
Rock Rapids Municipal Utilities 5.8 5.1 6.4 5.5
Rockford Municipal Light Plant 7.1 6.7 6.8 6.9
Sabula, City of 8.6 8.9 8.7
Sanborn Electric & Telecomm. 6.8 5.8 5.1 5.8
Sergeant Bluff, City of 6.8 5.6 6.2
Shelby Municipal Utilities 6.7 5.8 6.3
Sibley, City of 5.1 5.6 4.2 5.0
Sioux Center Municipal Utilities 6.0 5.9 4.9 5.4
Spencer Municipal Utilities 4.8 5.0 / 4.9
Stanhope Municipal Electric Utilities 9.5 9.4 I
9.4
Stanton, City of 6.9 6.1 7.1 6.6
State Center, City of 10.4 10.5 10.8 10.5
Story City, City of 7.7 10.0 5.9 6.7
Stratford, City of 11.9 10.8 11.4
Strawberry Point, City of 9.4 8.9 9.2
Residential Commercial Industrial Total ,'--:)
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Rev/kWh Rp-v/kWh Rt"v/kWh Rev/~ , c::>
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Stuart, City of 9.3 8.9 :~.[". -n
Sumner Municipal Ught Plant 9.5 11.5 .,.?_.,
lU<' --
Tennant, City of 12.2 ti~
Tipton, City of 10.0 9.4 6.4 n Ti
: ;-~-. -0 ""'---1
Traer Municipal Utilities 9.7 7.6 5.7 'J~'2:~ ~ ._...l
VilJisca Municipal Power Plant 7.2 4.5 ,-- /'-.. r:~
~
Vinton Municipal Electric Utilities 7.1 5.8 5.3 ~ (f:J
Wall Lake, City of 6.6 5.3 6.4
Waverly Ught & Power 8.8 6.6 6.1 7.0
Webster City, City of 8.3 6.9 4.6 5.8
West Bend, City of 7.4 6.9 7.3 7.2
West Uberty, City of 7.4 6.5 6.4 6.7
West Point Utility System 9.0 8.1 10.0 8.6
Westfield, Town of 9.8 7.3 9.3
Whittemore, City of 7.3 7.8 5.1 7.1
Wilton Municipal Ught & Power 7.1 7.0 5.6 6.6
Winterset Utilities 8.3 8.9 7.0 8.3
Woodbine Municipal Ught & Power 6.0 5.9 5.7 5.9
W oolstock, City of 5.2 15.5 8.4
Iowa
Tnvp-stnr-Ownp-d
Amana Society SeIVice Co 9.0 8.7 6.2 6.6
Interstate Power and Ught Co 9.9 7.4 4.5 6.5
MidAmerican Energy Co 8.7 6.5 4.1 6.1
Iowa
Coopp-rative
Access Energy Coop 7.7 5.3 4.7 6.3
Allamakee-Clayton El Coop, Inc 9.1 8.1 9.0
Atchison-Holt Electric Coop 7.3 6.0 7.1
Boone Valley Electric Coop 5.3 5.8 5.6
Buder County Rural Elec Coop 9.1 8.4 5.2 8.7
Calhoun County Elec Coop Assn 10.7 7.5 10.3
Cass Electric Coop 7.3 7.3
Charlton Valley Elec Coop, Inc 8.3 7.4 5.9 7.9
Clarke Electric Coop Inc 12.3 8.1 11.1 _
Consumers Energy 11.8 9.0 8.4 10.9
East-Centrallowa Rural Elec Coop 10.1 7.4 6.7 9.3
Eastern Iowa Ught & Power Coop 10.1 9.1 3.3 4.8
Farmers Electric Coop 7.9 6.4 / 7.5
Farmers Electric Coop, Inc 11.9 7.8 4.9 8.4
Franklin Rural Electric Cooperative 8.9 7.5 4.1 7.4
Freeborn-Mower Coop SeIVices 7.9 7.9
Glidden Rural Electric Coop 9.6 4.7 6.5
Grundy County Rural Elec Coop 10.3 - 8.3 2.9 5.5
Grundy Electric Coop, Inc 8.1 9.2 8.4
Residential Commercial Industrial Total
Rev/kWh Rev/kWh Rev/kWh Rev/kWh
Guthrie County Rural E C A 11.2 9.4 6.2 10.2
Harrison County Rrl Elec Coop 9.1 9.5 9.1
Hawkeye Tri-County El Coop Inc 9.9 7.4 4.7 9.2
Heartland Power Coop 8.4 7.0 3.4 6.9
Humboldt County R E C 9.2 7.3 4.4 8.0
Iowa Lakes Electric Coop 8.7 7.3 5.0 7.3
Linn County Rural E C A 10.5 10.1 6.6 9.3
Lyon Rural Electric Coop 6.5 5.1 6.1
Maquoketa Valley Rrl EIec Coop 9.5 7.7 9.3
Midland Power Coop 10.2 4.7 7.5 9.1
Nishnabotna Valley R E C 7.1 5.3 3.6 5.6
Nobles Cooperative Electric 7.4 8.1
North West Rural Electric Coop 4.6 4.3 5.9 4.5
Osceola EIectric Coop, Inc 5.7 4.9 4.5 5.2
Pella Cooperative Elec Assn 10.6 9.8 8.0 10.1
Prairie Energy Coop 9.6 6.9 5.1 6.5 ""
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Sac County Rural Electric Coop 10.3 7.4 15.4 "'"
Southern Iowa Elec Coop. Inc 8.6 5.6 4.8 ~ '':: -n
Southwest Iowa Rural EIec Coop l. _.\ G~
12.1 7.6 lq.~ -< -
TIP Rural Electric Coop 10.7 7.4 ~"C':' ;, \ \
Tri-County Electric Coop 9.3 10.9 9;5 ;=.::, -0 ['-1.
United Electric Coop, Inc' 8.4 8~'.~~ ~= '-,)
Western Iowa Power Coop 7.8 5.6 5.3 7.1f. " ~
Woodbury County Rural E C A 8.9 6.8 s.iP Ct)
Source: u.s. Department of Energy, Energy InfonnationAdministration. Form ElA-861. 2004 data.
Prepared November 2005 by the American Public Power Association. Department of Statistical Analysis.
I
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Marian Karr
From: callsfyre@aol.com
Sent: Thursday, August 10, 20066:25 PM
To: 'City Council
Cc: callsfyre@aol.com
Subject: Proposal for developers to include low & moderate housing in all their developments-from Catherine
Moore
To the Honorable Members of the Council ofIowa City,
August 20, 2006
Housing, especially affordable housing, is ajoke at which few laugh here in Iowa City. While wages
remain consistent with this region, low, far too many struggle to pay mortgages, rent, save enough for
rental deposits. How many times have I overheard a weary African American mother say while riding
an IC Transit bus, "What good does it do to have a Section 8 Voucher when no one will take it?" She
may learn that if you attempt to live in certain areas of the SE side ofIC you are welcome, but in other
areas, sometimes even the student ghettoes she will be met with" already taken."
Try to make a claim of Housing Discrimination and see how far it gets you. Still, who wants to draw
attention to one's self when all you want to do is to find a place to live?
(What person ever carne up with the big city concept of allowing a landlord to charge two months rent
for deposit in a region where the minimum wage remains at $5.15 and a worker is lucky to secure
employment that pays $7-$9 an hour? Especially when so many know that no matter what one does do
not ever expect to see any of that deposit. That is not an Iowa City alligator in the sewer story but a
reality that nearly every renter here knows).
I write to ask you all to please enthusiastically support a proposal that would require developers to
provide low, moderate and those whose income is beneath the radar housing within the areas they build,
especially those who build the developments that are so expensive. Mix them (expensive, low,
moderate, middle, below the radar housing) up and provide parks within each as well and community
garden space. This is one of the better ways to reduce exclusivity, racism, classism, and the diversity
and vigor that so many love about Iowa City (Johnson County.sorry but we are part of it).
If there is sufficient room to build an exclusive apartment or super size homes, then there is also room to
accommodate parks, community garden space and homes for those without that income. If, oh my,
crime is a concern then continue things such as community policing. When the officers are well-paid,
have sufficient time off, are able to live within the neighborhoods too, and have time to get to know the
populace they protect then they are viewed as part of the community as well. Where I come from I was
raised that it was my responsibility to make sure that the officers were safe and welcome and to always
notice when an officer made a stop in case that officer needed assistance. I was raised to view them as
our protectors and our responsibility to protect and honor, while not interfering with the performance of
their duty.
Still, there were times when misunderstandings occurred and rioting happened.
8111/2006
Page 2 of2
This is one of the things that I find so many who have more fear, the loss of that which they own. Who
does not fear that? Mixing neighborhoods brings this fear to the surface, still in the hope of making Iowa
City all that it can be let us try.
This letter has brought up several issues. Please feel free to contact me for more discussion. Still, I ask
you all to consider it.
It is not unheard of for those who profit from a community to give back to it. There are in many cases
tax incentives that may entice, especially for universal housing that aids the disabled and many others.
I am a woman of color who has graduated from the University ofIowa. I am an artist, writer, activist,
story-teller, part of a duo service -animal-team in training- -advocate-learner, and a person with chronic
illness and a permanent progressive disability for which there is no cure. I tell you these things not to
ask for your sympathy or pity, but to let you know that I live and do community work with many types
of groups here. I am retired due to disability but my finger is on a pulse.
Thank you for your attention
Catherine Moore
whom many know as CAT
P.O. Box 572
Iowa City, IA
52244-0572
callsfyre@aol.com
I will come to a meeting if you petition it.
For now and forever let us make peace,
CATSDREAMS
CbeckQutAOL.cQmJQday. Breaking news, video search, pictures, email and 1M. All on demand.
Always Free.
8/11/2006
~
Marian Karr
From: rdf rdf [fergystuff@hotmail.com]
Sent: Saturday, August 05, 2006 8:52 PM
To: .City Council
Subject: Traffic Light Safety - Thank You Mr. Elliott!
Hello Mr. Elliott and Other Council Members:
This week's comment from Mr. Elliott regarding stop light safety was music to my ears. I live on Kimball Road and have
chosen to either walk or ride my bike to my work at the UIHC. My travel path takes me thru the intersection of Dubuque and
Park Rd.
Over the years I have had several close calls, one in particular near miss in which to this day I still have no clue where the
car that had run the red light had come from. I had the cross walk light in my favor and fortunately for me the car managed
to swerve around me. I was very lucky on that day.
Nearly every day as I wait for the pedestrian signal I have to delay entry into the intersection while vehicles continue to pass
thru the intersection long past the time when the light has turned red. Watching this selfish behavior every day is incredibly
frustrating.
Iowa City has a very serious problem in this regard and a very serious case can be made towards the fact that our city is a
very unsafe city in regards to pedestrian safety. You may recall at least two pedestrian fatalities that I can remember in
recent years, one I believe was a person in a wheelchair.
I highly encourage you to begin taking steps to begin the process of providing a safe environment for those citizens who
choose to use the sidewalk, even if those steps include the use of traffic cameras.
Please take action before additionai people are seriously injured or killed.
Thank you for considering my comments.
Best Regards
Randy Ferguson
712 Kimball Road
P.s. A few years ago a new sidewalk was installed along the east side of Dubuque between Park Road and Kimball Road.
Crosswalks and pedestrian lights were also added to the intersection of Park and Dubuque. The sidewalk ends on the north
end of the Dubuque/Park intersection. The south side of this intersection was also improved with a pedestrian cross walk
signal. I have learned thru my experiences that the safest place to cross the street is from this south crosswalk. However the
sidewalk does not extend all of the way along the full east side of Dubuque. By using the south crosswalk I am able to avoid
a majority of traffic as during the time that the pedestrian light is illuminated cars are going from Dubuque to Park in the am
and Park to Dubuque in the PM. It seems a shame that that little extra iength of sidewalk wasn't added when the other
improvements were made as it is difficult to use the safer method in the winter time. I checked into the reason why this is
and was told by city staff that the property owner was against having that length of sidewalk installed when the other
improvements were made. I think it would be outstanding, from a safety perspective, if the sidewalk was extended the full
length of the intersection.
81712006
=
Marian Karr
From: Terry Trueblood
Sent: Tuesday, August 08, 2006 3:23 PM
To: 'RobinButler@aol.com'
Cc: 'City Council
Subject: FW: New trail leads to locked gate at soccer fields
Ms. Butler,
I have been asked to respond to your email below.
First, I would like to thank you for your kind words with regard to
the City's efforts toward building new trails. It has been an
emphasis of the Parks and Recreation Commission in recent years, but
certainly goes beyond the Parks and Recreation Department. Other
City departments have also been very involved, nost notably Planning
and Community Development and Public Works.
With regard to the South Sycamore Greenway Trail, unfortunately we
have found it necessary, due to vandalism of various sorts, to lock
all the soccer gates other than during the times when there are
soccer activities, or when we have staff on the site. You probably
noticed signs that notify trail users there is a "dead end" ahead,
followed by verbage indicating that the gate is open only during
soccer activities. When we first opened the soccer park it was not
fenced, but within a year we discovered it would be necessary to do
so. Not only was there vehicular damage to the fields (which takes
a lengthy time to be fully repired) and other acts of vandalism, but
it apparently became a popular "party" site; our crews routinely
discovered many beer cans and alcohol bottles in the parking lots
and other locations. This is probably due to its remote location.
When the trail was first extended to the Soccer Park, we tried
leaving the gate open, but we started to incur vandalism once
again. As a rule, this was not vehicular damage, which leads us to
believe that it was done by either bicyclists or pedestrians. This
necessitated our current practice, which means the trail gate is
open most weekdays (during the spring, summer and fall) from at
least 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and most weekends at varying times,
depending on the activities. We have talked about creating an
opening of sufficient size to accomodate pedestrians only, and we
may give this a try. We may also give another try to simply leaving
the trail gate open during most daylight hours (to see if the
vandalism has "run its course"). If the trail system should ever
extend to the south, a new course of action will be necessary, but
for now it is a "destination" trail with the destination being the
Soccer Park for soccer activities. I wish we could leave all the
8/8/2006
Page 2 of3
gates open all the time, but past history tells us this wouldn't be
a wise choice.
I don't necessarily disagree with your statement that it "...seems
wrong to keep any of our parks and fields under lock and key.. .",
but sometimes it's just necessary, as unfortunate as it may be.
I would like to clarify that the fence with the "razor wire" is not
the soccer fence, but rather the fence belonging to the Wastewater
Treatment Plant next door. I say this just to assure you that we
are not in the habit of fencing with razor wire at any of our parks.
In closing, we will be discussing our options again and trying
something, perhaps the pedestrian access you are requesting. Please
feel free to contact me anytime should you have other questions or
concerns.
Terry Trueblood
Director of Parks and Recreation
From: RobinButler@aol.com [mailto:RobinButler@aol.com]
Sent: Saturday, August 05, 2006 10:56 AM
To: *City Council
Subject: New trail leads to locked gate at soccer fields
Dear City Council Members:
I recently discovered a new city trail. It's the Sycamore Greenway Trail on the south side of Iowa City. This
trail adds to a growing number of trails in the Iowa City area, and I commend the city for understanding the role
a trail system plays in having a vital, healthy and active community. I am constantly amazed at
how many people--and how diverse a group of people--use the trails. The Sycamore Greenway Trail is
especially nice, complete with public artwork.
There is a problem, however, with the Sycamore Greenway Trail. The South Soccer fields are routinely locked,
thus the Sycamore Greenway Trail leads to a dead end chain linked fence with razor wire. There is no access
to the beautiful soccer park from the north or south. Trail activity is curtailed, as well as any access to southern
biking/jogging/walking routes.
I request that the city create a pedestrian access through the soccer fields--both north and south. I assume the
park is locked because of the risk of vehicle damage to the fields. Some other city parks are locked, but have a
pedestrian access. Being able to utilize the soccer field trail would have great benefits for the wide range of
people using the city trail system. Furthermore, it seems wrong to keep any of our parks and fields under lock
and key and available to only select citizens.
If you have not been on the Sycamore Greenway Trail, I encourage you to do so. If you want, give me a call,
I'd be happy to go with you.
Thank you for your consideration.
Robin Butler
8/8/2006
Page 3 of3
110 Shrader Rd.
Iowa City, IA 52245
319-338-0999
robinbutler@aol.com
8/8/2006
~
Marian Karr
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Karin Franklin
Thursday, August 10, 2006 10:31 AM
'michaei-andreski@uiowa,edu'
'City Council
Information request--inclusionary zoning
Mike: I have been asked by the City Manager's office to respond to your email to the Council regarding inclusionary zoning
proposals.
There is no proposal for inclusionary zoning at this time. The City Council has asked the staff to present information about
the concept and how it works at an upcoming work session. To enabie us to do adequate research, I anticipate this wili be
scheduled in October. This meeting, like ali Council meetings, will be open to the public. The Council also expressed a
desire to hold an invited meeting with individuals with expertise in the provision of housing and then have a subsequent
"town" meeting in which anyone could provide input on the topic. You can subscribe to notices of Council meetings on our
website at www.icoov.oro.
Thank you for your interest in this important community topic.
Karin Frankiin
Director
Depl. of Planning & Community Development
410 E. Washington 51.
Iowa City, IA 52240
31 9-356-5232
Fax 31 9-356-5217
Marian Karr
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Andreski, Michael T [michael~andreski@uiowa.eduJ
Wednesday, August 09,20062:47 PM
'City Council
Information request
Hi
I just read another ill informed commentary from Beth Cody and was wondering if I could
get a copy of any proposed "inclusionary" zoning law.
The studies she referred to were funded by a home builders association and I want to
publicly dispute her assertions.
Thanks and I think you are doing a pretty good job.
Mike Andreski
/
Marian Karr
G::l
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
N C Steele [ncsteele@yahoo.com]
Friday, August 11 , 2006 6:04 PM
'City Council
Hazardous Waste Drop-off
City Council,
I would like to voice my displeasure with the city's current set-up regarding drop off of
household hazardous waste. When an individual has to go out of his or her way (ie.
schedule a drop-off appointment within a small specified period, drive considerable
distance) to dispose properly of hazardous materials, more times than not the items will
be thrown in with the normal curbside garbage.
If the city's plan is to appease some small group of people that requested that the city
accommodate hazardous household waste, then the plan is adequate.
But, if the city actually wants its citizens to participate in such a program then it has
to appropriately facilitate such a program. In the case of dropping of hazardous
materials, the Landfill workers are stationed within a small area at the landfill, so I
see no reason why the Hazardous Waste Facility can't be combined with the normal Landfill
operations.
Sincerely,
Nate Steele
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
1
Page 1 of 1
Marian Karr
From: Brad Neumann
Sent: Wednesday, August 16, 2006 11 :57 AM
To: 'ncsteele@yahoo.com'
Cc: 'City Council; Dale Helling; Steve Atkins; Dave Elias; Jennifer Jordan; Jeff Davidson
Subject: Household hazardous waste collection
Nate,
Thank you for your email regarding the City's household hazardous waste collection program. I understand that
you are not happy with the current setup, specifically the location of the household hazardous waste collection
facility and the appointment system.
When the landfill was developing the current hazardous waste collection program they used many factors to
determine the location of the facility. They had room on the landfill property, they needed a new scale house and
office facility at the landfill since the previous building was destroyed by a storm, and the proposed household
hazardous waste collection facility would be staffed by existing landfill employees. Developing a separate site in
Iowa City would have added a lot of cost to the program, including added iabor since these employees would be
at a different location. It was determined at that time that the City would build a new facility at the landfill that
would include the hazardous waste collection facility, a new scale house for the landfill, an education room, and
office space for the landfill staff.
The appointment system for the program was deveioped with the other landfill programs and labor issues in
mind. Landfill staff are required to be trained and certified in the collection, sorting, and packing of hazardous
materials. These employees need to be present when a resident brings material to the collection site. Not all of
the landfill staff is certified to do this. Staff certification is an annual process and does require class time and
funding. The collection of household hazardous waste is just one of the many duties that the landfill staff has and
it would be very inefficient for the landfill staff to be waiting all day long for someone to bring materials to them.
With the appointment system we can efficiently collect more material in a shorter period of time and it allows the
landfill staff to concentrate on their other duties. Duties that they simply cannot stop doing every time someone
shows up with hazardous materials. Staffing needs and operating efficiency were the main issues behind the
implementation of the appointment system.
Having said this, I do understand your issues and the landfill realizes that making the program more user friendly
is necessary. With this in mind, the landfill has recently purchased a mobile hazardous waste collection trailer
that can be used for collection events in Iowa City or anywhere in Johnson County. The landfill held their first
mobile collection event in the Longfellow neighborhood in Iowa City this past June. The event was very
successful and the landfill plans on scheduling a number of these neighborhood events each year. The landfill is
also involved in the development of a new recycling and collection facility on Scott Blvd in Iowa City. The landfill
pians on making the mobile collection trailer available at this location during collection events once the facility is
operating. All of the materials collected at the mobile collection events will be shipped to the landfill's permanent
facility for sorting and packing.
I hope this answers your questions. If you have any more questions of comments please email them to me or call
me at 356-5235.
Thanks.
Brad Neumann
Solid Waste Management Planner
8/16/2006
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Marjorie C. Decker
Gty Councilor
August 4, 2006
Dear Colleagues,
I hope this finds you well. I am once again writing to you with an update on my city's
sister city- San Jose Las Flores in EI Salvador. As you may recall from a previous letter-
Cambridge established this relationship twenty years ago. Cambridge citizens traveled to
El Salvador and accompanied 26 families in their successful effort to repopulate their
community. During the war, many of the poorest Salvadorans were massacred and
removed from their homes. Due to the courage and persistence of the people of Las
Flores, the city is once again a vibrant community. Cambridge and Spain have
contributed to the efforts of the community in rebuilding and maintaining their
community. Once again, the people of Las Flores and the surrounding towns are being
threatened--this time by mining exploitation. The primary companies involved are held
by investors in the U.S. and Canada. I am asking you to show your solidarity with the
people ofEI Salvador. In our efforts to communicate with the stockholders of these
companies, they will know their actions are not in isolation. Although E1 Salvador is a
small country, leaders around the world are communicating and carefully watching the
success and obstacles of the Salvadoran people.
I am asking you to read the letter my community is sending to Au Martinique Silver and
Intrepid Minerals Corporation and am asking you to consider sending a similar letter. If
you are a member of a legislative or municipal body, I would ask you consider passing a
resolution in solidarity. If it is not possible to pass a resolution, individual letters from
community leaders around the world are important.
Please do not hesitate in contacting me if you have questions or concerns. Thank you for
your consideration.
CITY HALL, CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 02139
(617) 349-4280 FAX (617) 349-4287 TTY{I'DD (617) 349-4242 EMAIL: mdecker@cambridgema.gov
CAMBRIDGE CITY COUNCIL
Marjorie C. Decker
City Councilor
June 29, 2006
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1128 Clapp Lane, P.O. Box 279
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To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to you today to express my disappointment in your decision to explore for
gold and other minerals in the Chalatenango area, especially in the village of San Jose
Las Flores. It is deeply disturbing that a developed country's mining industry would
exploit this third world community. San Jose Las Flores was rebuilt with the blood, sweat
and courage of families who were displaced when their village was destroyed in the war.
Mining exploration will ruin the environment and the livelihood of villagers and will
displace them once again.
On your we" page, Au Martinique claims, "The Republic of El Salvador has one of the
lowest risk profiles for investment in all of Latin America." Perhaps your investors
should be informed that local communities and Mayors belonging to E1 Salvador's two
major political parties have publicly declared their complete opposition to Au
Martinique's presence in their municipalities. The extent of opposition is shown by the
following statement, published in a major Salvadoran newspaper by mayors, community
leaders and members ofthe Catholic Church in March of2006: "Ifthecompany
continues insisting, ignoring our decision, we reserve the right to take the necessary
measures to defend our lands and natural resources, our right to life and the right to life of
our future generations." Such serious discrepancies between the company's claims and
local reality raise concerns about Au Martinique's credibility.
CITY HALL, CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 02139
(617) 349-4280 FAX (617) 349-42871TYfTDD (617) 349-4242 EMAIL: mdecker@cambridgema.gov
Au Martinique's subsidiary has acquired licenses from the Salvadoran government to
explore for gold in the Department of Chalatenango, yet the company never consulted
local property owners before entering the community, as required by law. This is
irresponsible as well as illegal. Nevertheless, the company has promoted itself as
"committed to become a global leader among exploration juniors on community
initiatives." It even claims to have started a "Good Neighbor Program" to advance its
activities "hand-in-hand with the local communities to assure a partnership in economic
development and good environmental stewardship."
Most of the subsistence farmers, mayors and senators representing the area licensed to Au
Martinique in Chalatenango are well aware of the track record ofthe gold mining
industry. Local farmers legitimately fear that the large quantities of waste left over from
mining will pollute local water supplies with arsenic and cyanide, and devastate local
agriculture and fisheries.
In June, I met with community members from San Jose Las Flores. Members of the
cornmunity were never notified by the government about the mining licenses, and they
have confronted and talked with government officials to no avail. However, San Jose Las
Flores and the surrounding communities are extremely organized and have educated
themselves about the impacts of mining. They understand how your project will pollute
the Sumpul River and devastate their water supply.
The people of the Chalatenango area have worked hard for the last twenty years to
develop their communities. At this time your mining explorations will only serve to
undermine them and cause severe harm. It is my understanding that the US Embassy has
informally confirmed receiving environmental impacts that drastically contradict your
reports. Counter to your studies, the Salvadoran Government also has reports that
confirm the harm that your project will have on the population.
I am confident the people of this region will continue to organize to halt your
explorations. The Cambridge City Council will go on record opposing your efforts and
will continue to raise awareness about your exploitation. In addition, we will seek to
raise awareness of the harmfulness of your project with various stakeholders in the
project and educate leaders around the world. I implore you to find your humanity and
continue your explorations in areas that are not populated and will not threaten the health
and well being of people.
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RNER HEIGHTS PROPERETY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
10ValleyViewCircleNE 2!J05tiY; II; H: 1:31
Iowa City, IA 52240
July 30, 2006
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To Members ofthe Johnson County Council of Government:
Dear
I am writing to you as President of River Heights Property Owners Association to express
our concern in the process currently being pursued by JCCOG staff and the city of
Coralville in pushing for an immediate designation of Forevergreen Road as an arterial
connection to Dubuque Street. By unanimous agreement at our recent Board meeting it
was agreed to make this concern known to each of you. We firmly believe in developing
an adequate transportation system in our county. We do not believe the process or the
product, as presented by your staff to the public does that.
We do not understand how JCCOG can designate Forevergreen Road as the through
street without adequate traffic studies. We can not find in the public record any
indication that Dubuque Street has been thoroughly studied, other than when Oakdale
Blvd was being developed. I might add there seems to be no public information available
on the suggested completion of Oakdale Blvd to Dubuque St.
We strongly urge you to reject the proposal designation before you and to start the
process over again, and this time, insist on an open process whereby studies ofthe traffic
in this area is completed, and this information, along with all suggested alternatives be
discussed in open meetings, with all the neighbors including our members prior to a final
decision. What is important to us is that the traffic studies and traffic analysis for the
entire corridor area be done right. Oakdale Blvd. is not done and how that affect
Dubuque Street and Forevergreen Road ifit is done, or if its is never to be done. To our
way ofthinking you should want this approach even more than we do. I note that after
the June 28, 2006 meeting, traffic counters appeared on Steward Road and one on
Dubuque Street. We noted that these counters were in action for not more than four days.
This would seem to be a strange time to complete a traffic study when no schools are in
session(note that there is a private school located on North Dubuque street) and it appears
the "study" was very limited. If this study was conducted as part of the Forevergreen
Road analysis we do not see how it is helpful.
In reading material on the web page of JCCOG, I see various references to transportation
studies, intersection analyses, survey reports, arterial street deficiency issues; yet no
evidences that these types of studies were involved prior to the move to designate
F orevergreen Road as an arterial street.
On behalf of the 147 homeowners in River Heights, I am asking that you do the process!
One needs to see the safety concerns of additional traffic on Dubuque Street. One needs
-----~~- - - - -~-- --- -----------------~- _.__.._._-~_..._--
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to see the impact of intersecting streets with curves (note Pembroke road and
Lincolnshire PlaceMike O'Donnell) What will the impact be when Oakdale Blvd is
completed to Dubuque Street or has that plan been shelved. What is the impact of
continued development in North Liberty and what does North Liberty expect for
Dubuque Street. The same question is for Coralville as it appears to be ready to annex
property adjacent to Dubuque Street. Who will be responsible for maintenance on
Dubuque Street? It would appear to me and the residents along this area that these are
the questions that need to be discussed as part of the decision making process. Do the
studies, discuss the issues, and then make a decision.
I urge you each to see that the process is followed.
:i:'~ 'UM(-
President
River Heights Property Owners Association
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Marian Karr
From: Burch, Bill [bill-burch@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, August 15, 2006 2:15 PM
To: 'City Council
Subject: Outstanding sevice Streets Department
Dear Councilmen,
I am writing you to acknowledge the outstanding service from our City Streets Department. Today (Tuesday Aug
15th) at approx 1 Dam, I called the streets dept to report a couple of potholes on South Riverside Drive. By 2pm
they had already filled them. Wow that is efficientl!
However, this is not the first time they have impressed me. On another occasion in the last 6-8 months, I have
called them about a sinkhole next to a storm sewer on my property. It was fixed on the same day.
Too often, I'm sure you hear about what's wrong with our city services, so today I wanted you to hear about
what's right with it!! I appreciate their outstanding service!!
Sincerely,
Bill Burch
96 Oberlin St
Iowa City
351-9313
ElUkburch@!.Ijowa.edu
8/15/2006
~
Marian Karr
From:
Sent:
To:
LoTempio, Dan [Dan.LoTempio@delta.com]
Wednesday, August 16, 2006 12: 1 0 PM
.City Council
Subject: mediacom
Attachments: LoTempio, Dan. vcf
Just a note to say I have been on hold waiting for a service representative for over 30 minutes. This is not
customer service from Mediacom. Listening to the same ads, it is very sad that Iowa city only has one cable
company. I am going to the dish!!!
Thanks,
Daniel R LoTempio
8/16/2006
Page lof2
~'~('1J
Marian Karr
From: Drew Shaffer [dshaffer@citychanneI4.com]
Sent: Monday, August 21,20063:48 PM
To: Dan.LoTempio@delta.com
Cc: 'City Council
Subject: Fwd: mediacom complaint
Mr. LoTempio,
Thank you for your email complaint regarding Mediacom.
I am sorry to hear that you were put on hold for 30 minutes when trying to contact Mediacom. The FCC
has guidelines regarding how soon the cable company is to respond to phone calls. However, the FCC
guidelines only measure such requirements on a city wide, quarterly basis and in an aggregate amount -
so individual calls response times are outside the City's ability to regulate. However, I will notify
Mediacom of your complaint.
I document complaints, such as yours, and attempt to resolve them. I also report these complaints,
which will include yours, to the Iowa City Telecommunications Commission (ICTC). At the ICTC
meetings where I report these complaints the cable company is in attendance. If the complaints involved
are not already resolved, Mediacom notes these complaints and checks further into why the problems
occurred and what can be done to fix the problem. The City Council receives the minutes of these ICTC
meetings.
At any time a subscriber may contact me about a complaint after they have tried to resolve the matter
with Mediacom. When I receive complaints I will email the appropriate Mediacom staff to notify them
ofthe situation and they will respond to me with the resolution of the complaints.
Regarding Mediacom being the only cable company in Iowa City, my office sends out economic and
demographic packets to potential competitors on a regular basis. We have not received any interest so
far. The responses we receive generally state the cable company is not interested in expanding at this
time or does not think Iowa City is someplace they want to try to compete.
We continue to send out such packets in an attempt to attract competitors.
FYI, the Congress and state legislature have been discussing how best to enable phone companies to
compete against cable companies. Several bills have been introduced in both legislative bodies. It is
likely that such legislation will pass in one or both bodies within the next year. Such a bill will open the
way for competition.
Thank you for your complaint. If you have any further questions, comments or complaints, please feel
free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Drew Shaffer, Cable TV Administrator
City ofIowa City
356-5046
8/21/2006
..._.__.~______..____._____~.~_____m_______._"__~._'__~____"..______.~__..______.__,________~_____.,__._____.---- ,
Page I of I
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Marian Karr
From: Shams Ghoneim [shams-ghoneim@uiowa.edu]
Sent: Thursday, August 17, 20061:49 PM
To: 'City Council
Cc: Helms Walter; Beverly Jones; Bruce Kittle; kiekhaefer margaret; Tracy Hightshoe
Subject: Thank you from CRC
Dear Mayor Wilburn,Mayor Pro Tern Bailey,and City Councilors:
I would like to thank you all on behalf ofCRC (Johnson County Consultation Of religious
Communities) for your kind recognition this week during the Community Development Celebration
at Grant Wood Elementary.
We are honored by your kind support and recognition of our efforts addressing issues of
Homelessness in the community.
With our deep appreciation and thanks.
Sincerely:
Shams Ghoneim,MS.
CRC,President
8117/2006
Jf3
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
08/22/06
I"m the Melrose Neighborhood Representative and I"m here to talk about the Grand Avenue
Roundabout and what wc considcr a serious lack of due process.
I, as Melrosc rcprcsentativc, was an official part of the Traffic Study of the one-way systcm. The
roundabout is a modification of the onc-way system we developed in that Study. However I was
not told of the roundabout plan-l happened to hear about it at a UI Campus Planning
Committce mecting. Brian Boelk, whose brainchild is the roundabout, apologized for the
oversight and f()rwardcd me the plan. Since that timc, I have conveyed the Neighborhood's
concerns and suggestions about the plan to both the City and to the Council. These concerns
have not becn addressed and I have not been invited to ANY of the meetings, nor have I been
copied ANY of the correspondence, between the UI and City officials on this topic. However,
many lJI pcoplc reviewed the roundabout and the urs consultant studied and endorsed it.
Meanwhile, the City Council has had two working sessions where it has first invited Brian Boelk
to present thc plan and thcn, last night, UI personnel were invited to give their "input and
feedback" to the City and thc City Council. I was not invited to give our input and fccdback
(although the lJI Student Liaison to the Council was asked his opinion). In fact, the plan that
Brian Boelk prescnted was modi tied from earlier plans I received from him, so we are not even
being kcpt up-to-datc of the plans. I also didn't learn about the artwork which has been proposed
j()r the center of the roundabout until just before the August 1 st Council meeting. The artwork is
on the agcnda f()r tonight's meeting, to consider a resolution approving the call for its artists, but
at last night's mceting Brian Boelk suggested the topic might need to be deferred, partly f()r
input from the UI as to what they would like to have there. Once again, no mention of the
Ncighborhood. Landscaping of the area is also under consideration by the lJl and the City.
In spite of repeated ellorts to have my Neighborhood's concerns and suggestions discussed, they
have not been discussed but meanwhile the project has gained eonsidcrable momentum, during
which time the lJI has, according to Rod Lehnertz (UI Campus Planning Director), been working
with Jeff Davidson and Brian Boelk, who has been "working closely with (UI) stafT'. Mr.
Lehncrtz said the UI "will continue to work with Brian and his stall".
This momentum culminated in the mayor asking the Council last night if there were four votes to
support the project and four hands were raised. This without any consideration of the
Ncighborhood. Should this momentum be allowed to override due process?
I will rcpeat what I said at the Council meeting on August I sl:
"Thc roundabout, which would cost $360,000, was proposed to overcome several perceived
problcms in thc area. The neighborhood believes, and has suggested several times, that therc are
other ways to address thcse problems that would be less costly and we think that thcse should be
investigated before a commitment is made to spend $360,000 on such a roundabout.
Alter development the two alternatives should be compared side-by-side in order to make the
best decision I,)r our City."
On a larger issue, we arc very concerned about the working relationship between the UI and the
City. I would remind the Council that a few years ago, the UI expected the City to vacate Grand
Avenue Court because the UI was building the Athletic Learning Center and when it was built,
that street would be too closc to the building.
That expectation was due to closed discussions between the City and the UI. Dee Vanderhoef
tried to have a Traffic Study done before the street was vacated but not only was it vacated, it
was handed over to the U I and a traffic study was allowed AFTER the street was already handed
over. What other business in Iowa City could get away with that?
My exelusion horn the tJI/City discussions and planning of the roundabout, even though I was
an official part of the Traffic Study (and the roundabout is a modification of that Study's
outcome), appears to be another unfortunate example ofa too-close relationship between the City
and the lJl. Is the roundabout going to be built and THEN the City and UI will contemplate the
Neighborhood's suggestions and concerns?
A final comment:
I am disturbed that one of the Council members last night asked the UI what their future plans
were !,)r Melrose A venue and Grand A venue. Aren't those CITY streets? It makes us wonder,
who is in charge of this City?
Jean Walker
335 Lucon Drive
337-5201