HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-01-19 Bd Comm minutes
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MINUTES
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
DECEMBER 9, 1992.4:30 P.M. ,
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
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MEMBERS PRESENT:
Larry Baker, Ernie Galer, Catherlne Johnson, John Pelton, Rich
Vogelzang
None
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
OTHERS PRESENT:
Rockwell, Bormann, Hudson
Dick Parrott, liter Bakkal, John Bauer, Gary Appleby
CALL TO ORDER:
Pelton called the meeting to order at 4:31 p.m.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 12. 1992:
MOTION: Johnson moved to approve the mInutes of the November 12, 1992, meeting.
Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on a 4-0 vote.
(Vogelzang arrived at 4:35 p.m.)
SPECIAL EXCEPTION ITEMS:
1. EXC92.000B. Public hearlng on a request submitted by Dick Parrott, on behalf of
property owner Bruce Glasgow, for a six month extension of a June 10, 1992, special
exception approval by the Board of Adjuslmentto permit a dental office use In the CN.1
zone for property located at 21 09 Rochester Avenue.
Rockwell stated that the Board was not being asked to review Its orlglnal decision, but to
evaluate the request submitted by Dick Parrott asking for a six month extension.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
In response to a question from Pelton, Dick Parrott, applicant, stated that after the special
exception was granted In June, Bruce Glasgow submitted a subdivision application. There
was dIsagreement with City staff on what was required, because the land had apparently
been subdivided before when Dan's Short Stop was built. Parrott stated that the process
was delayed quite awhile unUl the subdivision Issues were resolved. Parrott commented
that the City Council would vote on the final plat on December 15, 1992. Parrott asked
that the Board extend the special expeptlon. He planned to start construction of the dental
office as soon as the weather would allow.
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Board of Adjustment
December 9, 1992
Page 2
BOARD DISCUSSION:
Baker asked RQckwelllf extensions were usual. Rockwell replied yes, that the only time
the Board had questioned such a request was when someone carne back time after time
asking for extensions without good cause. Bormann stated that the City Attorney's office
was Involved with determining how the subdivision should be handled. She said that
Parrott was not responsible for the delay.
MOTION: Johnson moved to approve EXC92.0008. a request submitted by Dick
, Parrott, on behalf of property owner Bruce Glasgow, for a six month extension of
a June 10, 1992, special exception approval by the Board of Adjustment to Ilermlt
a dental office use In the CN.1 zone for property located at 2109 Rochester Avenue.
Pelton seconded the motion. The motion carried on a 5.0 vote.
2. EXC92.0031. Public hearing on a request submitted by liter Bakkal and Zeynep Denizcl
Bakkal for a special exception to reduce the off-street parking requirements for property
located In the CB-2 zone at 25 N. Van Buren Street.
Rockwell reviewed the staff report dated December 9, 1992. Staff recommended that
EXC92.0031. a special exception request to permit a 50% reduction of off-street parking
spaces from nine or ten spaces to five spaces for property located at 25 N. Van Buren
Street be denied.
Baker asked about the extent of barn restoration that would be required before an
occupancy permit would be Issued. Baker asked whether there would be a contract
between the City and the owner specifying exactly which repairs were to be done.
Rockwell responded that the letter from architect Sue Licht could be used as a guideline.
Rockwell stated that Licht specified exactly what would have to be restored for the barn
to be retained and have any value. She said that City staff could Inspect to ensure that
, the box sill bearns had been replaced, the roof was sufficiently repaired and appropnate
regrading had occurred before a certificate of occupancy was ISSUdd. Baker asked if
Licht's opinion was sufficient to anticipate all of the problems In the architectural
restoration of the barn. Rockwell felt that Licht had made a thorough assessment.
Rockwell added that If the Board felt more comfortable with another opinion, staff could
request that someone from the State Historic Society determine what would be required
to preserve the hlstonc character of the barn.
Johnson asked If the Board reduced the parking and the restaurant failed, could the
property stili be used as a restaurant. Bormann responded that the special exception
would be recorded with the property, and as long as the use was not changed or made
mere Intense, the property could retain the restaurant use. Rockwell noted that If the use
was discontinued for more than one year, the special exception would no longer be valid.
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Board of Adjustment
December 9, 1992
Page 3
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
liter Bakkal, applicant, stated that he and his wife wished to open a health food restaurant,
an environmentally-conscious operation respecting the right of everyone even remotely
affected by It. He said they wished to save as many trees as possible and save the bam
structure that was at least 130 years old. Bakkal stressed that he and his wife were not
asking for special privileges as was Indicated In the staff report. He said they would not
need more than five parking spaces and maybe not even that many, Bakkal said he had
problems understanding the City staff's uncompromising position. He said each situation
was different. The Bakkals felt they had a special situation. Bakkal expressed that his
restaurant would not be the only restaurant In a CB.2 zone with reduced on,slte parking.
Bakkal commented that the main source of clientele would be Mercy Hospital staff,
University staff and students, and residents from surrounding dwellings .- all of whom
would be I!kely to come to the restaurant on foot. He felt this Justified the reduction. He
stated that a survey would be costly. Instead, he had made probability calculations to
estimate the parking demand. Bakkal assumed that dinner clients would come from 5
p.m. to 9 p.m. He anticipated two tumovers of clientele with a total of 12 tables, three
people to a table, taking one hour and 15 minutes to complete a meal. On peak days,
such as Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, there could be a total of 72 people at the
restaurant throughout an evening. He estimated that half of the clientele would arrive on
foot. He said If clients were to drive, he assumed there would be three people per car on
average. Bakkal thought the parking lot would be empty most of the time.
Bal<kal stated that the parking problems In the area were long.term problems that were
more the City's responsibility than attributable to what the Bakkals were proposing. He
said that overall, the reduction was justified. Saving as many trees as possible and
preserving a historical structure while providing the City with a unique establishment
outweighed the merits of providing more than five parking spaces for the restaurant use.
Johnson asked about parking for personnel. Bakkal responded that the employee parking
was Included In the calculations for restaurant parking.
Galer asked If Bakkal was Interested In using the bam or only In restoring the barn.
Bakkal commented that he was Interested In restoring the barn. He had paid for Sue
Licht's architectural services. In response to a question from Galer, Bakkal stated that his
primary Interest was In saving the 130 year old barn. He said he would be willing to lose
one tree, but he didn't want to lose the barn. Bakkal responded that if he could get a front
yard modification, In addition to a 50 percent reduction In parking, he could keep the barn
and the trees. He stated that he would be elated If the Board granted the special
exceptions to make this possible.
Responding to a question from Galer, Bakkal said that the restaurant needed to be open
within the next six months. As a college professor making little money, It would be difficult
to have the barn restored prior to opening the restaurant. Bakkal stated that he was
willing to do what was necessary to stop further deterioration of the barn. Rockwell
commented that If the Board was Inclined to reduce the required parking as a means of
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Board of Adjustment
December 9, 1992
Page 4
saving the barn, then the Board should be assured that enough repairs were done to stop
the deterioration of the barn. That was why staff would like to see Licht's list of repairs
done prior to the certificate of occupancy being Issued.
Rockwell commented that Bakkal had spoken about half of the restaurant customers
arriving by foot. Thlrty.slx customers with three In each car would mean twelve parking
spaces would be needed. Bakkal responded that five parking spaces would be sufficient
within a four.hour period with three vehicles arriving per hour for a one hour and 15
minutes meal.
John Bauer. owner of the dental office at15 N. Van Buren, commented that with the lack
of parking available In the area, he thought the restaurant customers would use the
parking spaces on his property directly across the alley from the proposed restaurant. He
said he already had parking problems. He thought that hard feelings would result If
restaurant customers had their cars ticketed or towed to maintain parking for h:s dental
office customers. Pelton asked about the hours of operation of the dental office. Bauer
responded that his office was open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., but he needed the spaces
open at night for snow removal and maintenance. Johnson asked Bauer If problems had
occurred before. Bauer stated he had had cars towed, but tried to warn and ticket cars
first. He said patient parking signs are posted on the building. Bauer commented that he
has nine parking spots, Including parking on the alley.
Gary Appleby. Vlce.Presldent. Unlversltv of Iowa Credit Union, said he wanted to echo
Bauer concerning parking problems. He stated the Credit Union has 20 employees who
park In street metered parking on a dally basis. He said the office was open from 9 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m., with drive up lanes open unt1l5:30 p.m. Appleby stressed the concern that
currently congested parking areas would be faced with more difficulties In the future, If the
Bakkals' request was granted.
liter Bakkal responded to his neighbors stating that he was not pulling up a McDonalds.
He just wanted to have a small cafe and he was willing to provide 5 spaces. He said he
would tell customers to park on the street or In the municipal parking lot.
BOARD DISCUSSION:
Baker stated that Bakkal needed 9.4 parking places for the requested restaurant use.
Baker asked If the owner could meet the parking requirement without a special exception,
If the owner removed the trees and the barn. Rockwell responded no, because no more
than eight parking spaces can be reaulred for the property and stili permit parking to occur
along the alley.
Pelton asked If the owner reduced the size of the restaurant, could this reduce the number
of required parking spaces. Rockwell stated that this option had been discussed with the
applicant. She said the applicant would like to have the use of the front porch for an
outdoor ealing area. He had wanted an area for outdoor eating on the southeast corner
of the lot, but parking needed to be provided there. The applicant felt he had
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Board of Adjustment
December 9, 1992
Page 5
compromised a great deal by limiting the outside eating area to the porch., Baker clarified
that unless the owner reduced the size of the restaurant itself, there would be no way to
open a restaurant without a special exception. Rockwell responded that Baker was
correct.
In response to a question by Pelton, Rockwell said that no neighbors had commented on
the application since the last meeting, which Included a letter from the University of Iowa
Credit Union and testimony by Larry Svoboda. Johnson commented that she was
Impressed by Svoboda's testimony, especially concemlng the thrllatenlng phone calls and
vandalism related to towing cars that were l1Iegally parked on his property. Johnson felt
that If the Board did anything 10 extenuate that situation, It would create a serious
Infringement on the rights of neighboring property owners.
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Baker commented that one can always plant a tree, but he wondered If there was some
way to preserve a seemingly historic structure and still get almost all the required parklng,
possibly eight spaces. Rockwell reviewed a site plan which showed seven spaces. This
plan would require a front yard modification. The barn would be retained, but the trees
would need to be removed. Rockwell commented that there wasn't even enough room
to the rear of the residence to provide angle parking and a one.way drive.
Baker commented that even If the applicant could provide ten parking spaces, there would
stili be problems with spillover parking. Bormann !!dvised the Board that they could
change the percentage of the parking requirement reduction, but could reduce It by no
more than 50 percent. Galer said that It seemed like a tough situation, but he felt the
applicant should be required to have at least eight parking spaces. He commented that
reducing the parking requirements to eight spaces represented a 20 percent reduction In
the parking requirements. Rockwell commented that If the owner used the second floor
for storage and did not use the front porch for outside eating, the applicant might be able
to reduce the parklng requirement to eight spaces. Vogelzang commented that the
alteration of property as proposed would negatively Impact the neighbors. He said that
to have the least Impact on the neighbors meant that the greatest possible number of
parklng spaces should be provided. Baker commented that he would vote no on the
request for a 50 percent niductlon In parking requirements.
The applicant was asked If he would accept less than a 50 percent reduction In the
parking requirements. Bakkal responded no, because his goal was to save the trees and
the barn. Pelton commented that based on the appllcant's last comments, he would vote
no. Having no restaurant would save the trees and the barn and have less of an Impact
on neighbors. Pelton commented that the applicant seemed to be trying to make a silk
purse out of a sow's ear. There were too many ancillary Issues, such as the sewer
system, the front yard modlllcation, the potential disruption of trees and the loss of a piece
of history. It was way too high a price to pay. Pelton said the Zoning Ordinance would
be undermined unless he voted no.
Baker said he would go with a deferral If the applicant could come up with a plan to save
the barn, but still provide eight spaces. Rockwell commented that staff had looked at
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Board of Adjustment
December 9, 1992
Page 6
every possible permutation of the parking situation, and the most parking that could be
provided while retaining the barn would be seven spaces. Rockwell reported that parking
could not be permitted In the barn Itself unless the barn were moved ten feet to the north.
This Is duo to an ordinance requirement for at least a ten foot distance between the alley
and the side of the barn where people are backing out Into the alley.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve EXC92-0031. a special exception to permit a 50
percent reduction of oil-street parking spaces from nine or ten spaces to five
spaces for property located In the CB-2 zone at 25 N. Van Buren Street. Galer
seconded the motion. Vole 0-5. motion denied.
MOTION: Baker moved to deny EXC92.o031. a special exception to reduce the oil-
street parking requirements by 50 percent for property located In the CB.2 zone at
25 N. Van Buren Streel. Pelton seconded. Motion carried on a 5.0 vole.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION:
Rockwell thanked Pelton for his service to the Board. She commented that the City Council was
having a hard time finding a replacement for him. Pelton responded by thanking Rockwell. He
said that she made the Board's Job easy. Pelton stated thai he had enjoyed his service on the
Board. He said he had learned a great deal, and had truly enjoyed the comradeship of the folks
who had served with him during the last five years. Pelton wished everyone the besl of luck.
ADJOURNMENT:
Pelton adjourned the meeting a15:38 p,m.
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Minutes submitted by Uz Hudson
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MINUTES
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
November 18, 1992
MEMBERS PRESENT: .
John Beasley,
Jennifer Olson,
Mary weideman
Bill Brandt, Deb Liddell,
Dee Vanderhoef, John Watson,
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Todd Welk
STAFF PRESENT:
Blanchard, Carroll, Coffin, Kriz, Moran,
Norin, Trueblood
Matt Pacha, Richard S. Rhodes II, Sandra
Eskin, Jan Nash, Sue Licht, Robert Sayre,
Casey Cook, Larry Wilson
GUESTS:
FORMAL ACTION
TAKEN:
Moved bv Brandt, seconded bv Beaslev, to
approve the minutes of the November 18, 1992
meetina as written. Unanimous.
Moved bv Liddell. seconded by Vanderhoef, to
support the conceptual plan for Iowa River
Trails, while recoanizina many details need to
be worked out. and to be actively involved in
the design and im!)lementation of said plan.
Unanimous.
Moved bv Liddell, seconded bv Watson, to
direct staff to obtain cost estimates on the
initial development of the Ned Ashton Gateway.
Unanimous.
Moved by Brandt, seconded by Beaslev. to
acce9t the fee increases as pro9osed bv staff.
Unanimous.
Weideman welcomed Matt Pacha, newly appointed
commission member, and congratulated Deb
Liddell on her re-appointment to the
commission.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION: Robert Sayre addressed the commission on
behalf of a group of individuals interested ,in
preservation of the Haddock house on Rochester
Avenue (Bluff wood Addition). He stated they
carne up with the idea of possibly moving the
house to Hickory Hill Park and restoring it to
its original condition, with gardens and an
arboretum. They envision using volunteer
labor to accomplish this, and the house could
possibly be used as a nature center or a warm-
up hut for sledders and skiers. He stated the
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group plans to prepare a more detailed
proposal, and asked for time on next month's
agenda to present it. Weideman asked if they
were basically planning to buy the house and
donate it to the city, with Sayre indicating
the developer would donate the house to them
and they would try to raise money to move it.
Weideman asked if they knew where in Hickory
Hill Park they would like to move the house.
Sayre indicated they were not ready to address
the question yet, noting the group wants to be
guided by the commission, other public bodies
and private individuals. Watson asked, what
time frame they were dealing with; Sayre
indicated the developer has an agreement with
the city Council not to disturb the, house
until May 30, 1993. Trueblood stated the
group was basically present to see if the
commission is receptive to the concept and
possibly locating the house in Hickory Hill
Park, noting it ultimately would be the City
Council's decision. Weideman polled each
commission member; all were receptive to the
concept. Sayre stated they would present a
more detailed proposal at next month's
commission meeting.
IOWA RIVER TRAILS: Larry wilson and Casey Cook were present to
discuss the conceptual plan for Iowa River
Trails. wilson stated the conceptual plan was
completed under the guidance of FIRST by
Landmark surveying and Engineering, who
donated their services. Wilson highlighted
areas on the conceptual plan. He asked for
support of the concept, noting the Riverfront
and Natural Areas commission voted to support
it. Brandt stated his concern is somebody
sooner or later will ask for money to develop
it, and he would like to spend money
developing one side of the trail before
working on the other side. He indicated he
was supportive of the concept to develop both
sides, but noted it would be very costly to do
so. Wilson stated the plan is the overall
conceptual plan, noting that having a plan in
place enables them to take advantage of
opportunities that arise. Casey Cook stated
they will have to prioritize where they want
to put the trails. Liddell stated this was a
city-wide project, and saw it as an
opportunity to build coalitions that take into
account a great many needs. She also noted
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the plan was consistent with what the
commiSSIon has identif ied in its strategic
plan. Cook asked if the' commission had any
changes they wanted to make to the plan.
Weideman stated the comments being made by the
commission deal with what the priorities are
going to be and how the plan will be
implemented, and not with changes to the plan
itself. Watson acknowl~dged the work and
efforts of casey Cook towards the
establishment of trails. Moved by Liddell.
~nded bv Vanderhoef , to suooort the
conceotual' olan for Iowa River Trails, while
recoanizing manv details need to be worked
out. and to be activelv involved in the desian
and imolementation of said olan. Unanimous.
BENTON STREET
POCKET PARK:
Trueblood stated the commission previoUSly
voted to support a loan from the parkland
acquisition fund in the amount of $35,000 for
development of the Benton street Pocket park,
conditioned on a three year pay back. He
stated the commission needed to make a
decision as to whether or not to proceed with
the project this next spring/summer. Initial
development would consist of removing gravel,
bringing in dirt, landscaping, turf and a
walkway. Trueblood stated he did not think it
would cost $35,000 to do this, noting the work
could be completed in-house. Watson asked for
clarification of the resolution establishing a
new policy for use of funds derived from
hotel-motel tax as it related to the parkland
acquisition fund. Liddell asked what fund
received the interest made on the parkland
acquisition fund, the parkland acquisition
fund or general fund. Trueblood thought the
interest went into the general fund, but
stated he would check with the Finance
Department. Weideman noted the park appears
to be a vital part in what the commission just
endorsed, and initial development of it should
not be put off again. Wilson noted that the
Benton street Pocket Park is a memorial to Ned
Ashton. Brandt stated the money should be
used toward acquiring additional trailways to
the area prior to spending money developing
the park. Trueblood stated he needed
direction to go ahead and get cost estimates.
The cost estimates would be brought back to
the commission and at that time the commission
could determine whether to proceed with some
3
131
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development of the Benton street Pocket Park
with funds from the Parkland Acquisition Fund.
Watson stated he felt the Iowa River Trails
plan would be completed in pieces, and would
like to put some money towards acquiring areas
along the river to accomplish it. He stated
the commission needs to be more aggressive
towards this end, and needs to determine a
rational plan on what to buy and in what
order. Moved by Liddell, seconded bv Watson.
to direct staff to obtain cost estimates on
the initial development of the Ned Ashton
Gatewav. Unanimous. Beasley approved the
motion, but suggested that consideration also
be given at this time to what it would take to
acquire the properties to the north of this
area.
BOYS I BASEBALL:
Trueblood reported the city Council endorsed
the Boys' Baseball proposal to light two
fields in city Park. He noted receipt of a
call from a lady who was concerned with the
lighting project, not so much because of the
lights but the noise created.
Trueblood highlighted the proposed Recreation
Di vision fee increases for FY94. He stated
with the proposed fees increases, projected
FY94 revenue is. $724,151 or 46.14% of the
total operating budget. Vanderhoef questioned
the fees charged for Farmers Market and
special Populations Involvement programs as to
why there has not been any fee increase for
many years. Wi th regard to the Farmers
Market, staff indicated the fee was comparable
to what other communities charge. with regard
to the SPI 'programs, Trueblood indicated the
commission decided they did not want to raise
the fees much, if at all, when fee increases
were discussed in the past. Watson asked if
the program was self-supporting, with Coffin
'stating it was not. Watson stated next year
the commission should discuss the philosophy
of the SPI program and what the fees should
be. Moved bv Brandt, seconded bv Beaslev, to
accept the fee increases as proposed bv staff.
Unanimous.
FY94 FEE
INCREASES:
COMMITTEE REPORTS: NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE. Watson reported the
Neighborhood Open Space plan would be
presented to the commission at next month's
meeting.
4
/37
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COMMISSION TIME: Watson asked if the issue regarding the School
Board representative on the commission had
been resolved. Trueblood stated he learned
, the School Board appointed Tom Bender as their
representative to. the commission. Watson
stated the commission should recommend to the
city Council elimination of the requirement of
appointing a School Board member to serve on
the Parks & Recreation commission, as had been
discussed for a lengthy period of time.
Liddell asked about the status of the Hickory
Hill survey which was to begin after the
leaves fell off the trees, with Trueblood
indicating he would check with the Public
Works Department on its status. She also
noted she was glad to see the commission
becoming more proactive. Liddell stated she
would not be able to attend January's
Riverfront and Natural Areas Commission
meeting and asked if a commission member would
attend in her place (Matt Pacha indicated he
would attend).
DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Trueblood reported on the following:
Iowa River Corridor Studv. Copies of the Iowa
River Corridor study were made available for
commission members to take.
Reno Street Park. The neighborhood is
concerned with the possible expansion of the
Montesorri School. Trueblood stated a
covenant in the agreement prohibits any
construction on the new portion of Reno Street '
Park, without Council approval.
Hickorv Hill Park. The City Council passed a
resolution designating the stormwater
detention areas adjacent to Hickory Hill Park
as parkland, bringing total acreage to
approximately 190 acres.
ADS Prooertv. Staff will be meeting with
individuals from the Longfellow Neighborhood
Association regarding the ADS property, and
this group may attend the January meeting.
College Green Park. Staff is continuing to
work on solutions to the perceived problem
(brightness of lights). Staff is negotiating
with the manufacturing company to exchange the
5
/37
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30 clear globes for 30 white globes. Liddell
asked when construction would be completed,
wi th Trueblood indicating next spring. He
reported the Optimist Club has donated $17,000
to Project Green to be used for the purchase
of playground equipment for the park.
Vanderhoef asked that a letter from the
commission be sent to the Optimist Club
acknowledging their contribution.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved bv Brandt. seconded bv Watson, to
adiourn. Unanimous. The meeting adjourned at
7:55 p.m.
6
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MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 1992.5:30 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CIVIC CENTER
MEMBERS PRESENT: Paul Casella, Cordell Jeppsen, Tim Finer, Roger Christian
MEMBERS ABSENT: Trey Stevens
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Brau
OTHERS PRESENT: Casey Ashe, Jean Van Deusen, Bill Blough, Bill Pepper,
John Hess, Jerry Nail, Kevin Hoyland, Doug Allaire
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL
None.
LIST OF MATTERS PENDING COMMISSION/COUNCIL DISPOSITION
Triennial review and cable TV refranchlslng/renewal process.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
The library will be cataloging all the programs shown on Channel 20 and dubbing tapes for
checkout. Ellen Buchanan's Tell Me Your Storv recently taped Its last episode. Buchanan will
start a new series called The Character of Iowa City. PATV continues to work on restructuring
their organizational management. If approved, PATV will be closed from January 1st to January
15th to remodel. Seventy.five people atlended PATV's Annual Meeting. PATV Is considering a
new series polley In which PATV staff would produce two series per month for community
organizations. The Iowa City Community School District has hired a consultant to conduct an In-
service to Instruct teachers how to effectively use XPRESS/XCHANGE. TCI Is considering
methods for subscribers to have Input In the selection of more channels when an upgrade Is
complete. Shaffer recently talked to the Chamber of Commerce Education Committee on how
they might participate In the refranchlslng process, especially In regard to the needs of the
schools. Finer reported on the 1991 flnanclallnfonnatlon received from TCI. The balance sheet
showed $20.9 million In assets, 1.7 million dollars In short.term debts, and stockholder equity of
$19.1 million. The proflUJoss statement showed $6.9 million total revenue, $3.2 million In before-
tax Income, and $1.7 million In after-tax Income. The after.tax Income Is about 25% of revenues.
Finer said that their recent 4% rate Increase Is troublesome given TCI'sfinanclal strength. There
Is a discrepancy between the total revenues shown to him and the franchise fee payments to the
City. this may be due to the Inclusion of Coralville In the total revenues. Finer said that due to
the size of the operation, the City should not accept unaudited revenue reports and an annual
audit may be needed. Casella noted that the franchise agreement requires audited figures. The
Community Needs Assessment Report was recently received from Rice, WIlliams. The next
major refranchlslng task Is the development and distribution of an RFP.
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 5:40 p.m.
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Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 16, 1992
Page 2
APPROVAL OF THE BTC MINUTES ,
Finer moved to approve the December 16, 1992 minutes. Seconded by Christian. Unanimously
approved.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
Casella referred to a letter from TCI announcing a 4% rate Increase and said that the Increase
Is too much.
LEGAL REPORT
Shaffer reported Anne Bumside conferred with him prior to the meeting to determine If any Issues
needing her attention were on the agenda, and to ascertain if her attendance would be required,
Because there were no pending legal Issues, and Burnside has other pressing Issues, it was
agreed that her attendance was not necessary.
LIBRARY REPORT
Casey Ashe reported the last episode 01 Tell Me Your StOry was recently taped. Ellen Buchanan
plans to undertake a new series called The Character of Iowa City. Five or six Installments are
planned per year. Buchanan had taped eight to ten episodes a year for Tell Me Your StOry.
Currently, the library's contract with PATV calls for ten studio shoots and five PVOM shoots.
There has been a technical problem with the PVOM, however. The equipment problems indicate
wear on aging equipment. Ashe Is worklng to catalog all the programs cablecast on Channel 20
and to copy some of them for the library's collection. Ashe Is also undertaking a training program
for the A V staff.
I
PATV REPORT
Doug Allaire reported that PATV continues to work on restructuring the organizational
management. The management Improvements will enable P ATV to better fulfill the goals of their
contract with the City. John Hess reported that he was planning to ask the PATV Board to permit
the Community Programming Center to close from January 1 st to January 15th so they can move
the edit base, Install the SVHS edit equipment, do some painting and Inventory their equipment.
Playback capability wlil not be affected. PATV's Annual Meeting drew 75 people. Richard Ruth
was elected and Jim Murphy was appointed to the Board of Directors. Carl Orgren's term has
expired, but he agreed to stay on during the management reorganization. Hess said help from
the BTC In finding someone to fill his vacancy Is welcome. The program to offer a volunteer
option In lieu of workshop fees has now been In effect for three months. In October, 96.5
volunteer hours were logged, In November, 102.5. All volunteer hours'go towards producing
community programming. PATV Is considering producing two series per month for community
organizations beginning In March. Work on proposal evaluation and criteria Is underway. This
Initiative wlil allow PA TV to make some programming decisions and help meet some needs of the
community. It Is hoped that the six months of technical assistance from PATV staff In producing
the series wlil serve as an Incubator for further programming. Selection criteria Is based on 'an
established need In the community,' PATV wlil be submitting a request to the BTC for the grant
writing program offered by the City. "
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Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 16, 1992
Page 3
ECC REPORT
Jean Van Deusen reported that the Iowa City Community School District has produced 63 local
programs so far this school year. This rate Is slightly ahead of previous years, More student
performances are being cablecast. There have also been more programs giving parents an
Inside view Into the classrooms. The school system has received a grant from the Department
of Education for computers to use with XPRESS/XCHANGE. A consultant has been hired to
provide an In.servlce for teachers to learn to use XPRESS/XCHANGE. Everything Is on track for
XPRESS/xCHANGE to be up and running In January.
TCIREPORT
Blough reported that the Science Flcllon Channel, EwrN and The Learning Channel are channels
most requested by the public. A petition of 400 signatures, mostiy from dorm students, was
received requesting the Science Fiction Channel. Blough said a mechanism to ai/ow subscribers
to express what channels should be added to the system Is being considered. A preview of
possible choices Is one option. Hess noted that PATV Is now cable casting ten hours per month
of EwrN as a public service for short period of time, local cillzen acquired tapes and requested
they be cablecast. Casella noted this amounts to 8% of the total cablecast time and bolsters the
case for EwrN getting its own channel.
BTS REPORT
Shaffer reported the City's consultant, Jean Rice, recenlly met with representatives of each of the
access channels to discuss their proposals. Shaffer recently met with members of the Chamber
of Commerce Educallon Committee. The Committee Is Interested In the refranchlslng process
and how they might partlcipate, especially In regard to the needs of the school and a PEGL
facility. Shaffer reported he has received about thirty more requests for EwrN arid the requests
for the Quad City channels remain strong and steady. Eighteen total complaints were recleved
In the last month by Shaffer's office Including high rates, charging for multiple outlets, outages,
no grounding, poor reception on Channel 2, late fees, poor reception on Encore and several
requests for a scaled-down basic package,'
CABLE TV REFRANCHISINGJRENEWAL
Casella noted that a number of comments made at the public hearing were requests for certain
channels. He said the Commission should ask Rice, Williams the best means to facilitate those
requests. Finer reported he received some unaudited 1991 year. end financial records for Iowa
City from TCI. The year.end balance sheets showed total assets of $20.9 million, total debts of
$1.7 million, and total stockholder equity of $19.1 million. None of the debts are long.term. The
proflllloss statement showed total revenues of $6.9 million, Income before taxes of $3,2 million,
and after.tax Income of $1.7 million. Finer said that as a banker he wished all his customers had
this much net worth, but from a customer's viewpoint and as a Commissioner, he Is concerned.
In the Investments world the TCI operation could be called a 'cash cow.' TCI has an after.tax
Income of 25% - $6.9 million In revenues, and $1.7 million In net Income. No business Finer
works with comes close to matching those figures. As a customer, TCI's 4% rate Increase may
seem justified, but given the financial picture provided by the 1991 figures, the rate hike Is
puzzling. Finer asked how much TCllnvested In capital Improvements In 1991. Blough offered
to find out. Finer noted that a 5% franchise fee of $6,9 million In revenues Is about $350,000,
but the annual franchise fee reports are about $260,000. This Is about $90,000 short, Blough
said the $6.9 Million figure probably Includes Coralville and that he will find out. Blough said the
/38
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Broadband Telecommunications CommIssion
December 16, 1992
Page 4
figures provided were taken from audited books. Finer saId a means to get audlled revenue
figures Is needed so they can be ,matched with franchise fee payments to tile City. Blough
suggested auditing theIr revenues. Casella noted that the franchise agreement requires audited
figures. Blough said an audit of revenues was conducted In 1988. Finer said that given the size
of the cable operation, the City should not accept unaudited revenue reports, and an annual audit
may be In order. Blough said their books are open and the City would have to bear the cost of
an audit. Casella suggested that the City legal staff should research who should pay for the
audit. Shaffer reported he Just received the Community Needs Assessment Report from Rice,
Williams. The next step Is the development of a Request For Proposal (RFP) whIch will draw on
the Consumer Market Survey, the Technical Audit, the Community Needs Assessment, and the
Access Channel Proposals. The RFP should be completed within one to one and a half months.
The BTC may wish 10 hold another public hearing using the RFP as a basis. The City Council
may also wish to hold a public hearing, The public hearing would be the last slep before giving
TClthe RFP. TCI must respond withIn a given tlmeframe and the City then has a time.frame
within which to respond.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
II was moved by Finer and seconded by Christian to adjourn. Unanimously approved.
Adjournment at 6:35 p.m.
Respectfully submll1ed,
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MINUTES
IOWA CIT~ HOUSING ~OMMISSION
NOVEMBER 10, 1992
ROBERT A LEE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER - ROOM A
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Benjamin J. MOORE, James L. HARRIS, Charles
EASTHAM, Jack MCMAHON, Robin PAETZOLD-DURUMERIC
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Roger J. REILLY, Paul EGLI
STAFF PRESENT:
Doug Boothroy, Gary Klinefelter,
Marianne Milkman, Marci Lindsay,
Secretary Virginia Stroud
Jim Pumfrey,
Ron Henderson,
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
_ That the Oraft of the 1993 CHAS be approved.
_ That the application for HOME funds for Rehabilitation of O'Reilly
Hotel be approved.
HOUSING COOE AMENDMENTS - KLINEFELTER
Housing Inspection and Fire Department staff proposed revisions to the
Housing Code sections 17-2, 17-5(i) (l)(c), 17-6(d) and 17-7(q) and were
presented to the Housing Commission at the October meeting. Changes to
the amendments were recommended after Housing Commission members
discussion. A rewrite of those changes were distributed & discussed.
After review, some changes were recommended for clarification,
specifically, to require 2A 10BC fire extinguishers for all dwelling
units and the location requirements for rooming houses. The final
rewrite will be presented to the Housing Commission at the Oecember
meeting for recommendation and approval.
HOUSING AUTHORITY REPORT - HENDERSON
Henderson stated that weekly Certificate and Voucher issue has been
resumed due to the seasonal decrease in the number of new applications
and renewals. Housing Commission received copies of the new Fair
Market Rents effective October 1992. Henderson stated this affects our
income, which is the administrative fee earned. TOP is on hold. There
are Public Housing units available at Broadway and Muscatine. The
Broadway problems are being resolved and the tenant selection committee
at Broadway is not a barrier to filling the units. Muscatine units
were being held for handicapped families because they are handicapped
accessible. The new Public Housing acquisition should be on schedule.
Five units have been closed on, four are getting appraisals, and four
are being looked at for purchase. Location of the units is in the
southeast quadrant due to market affordability.
CCN REPORT - PAETZOLD-DURUMERIC
Robin stated CCN has begun discuesion of the allocation process for
CDBG funds and the information sessions are continuing to be presented.
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PAGE 2
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 10, 1992
CD HOUSING UPDATE - MILKMAN
- Review & Recommendation CHAS 1993 Annual Plan - Lindsay
Final draft of the 1993 CHAS was presented to the Housing Commission.
Lindsay stated a Public Hearing was being held November 10, 1992, and
staff needed a Housing Commission recommendation for counci+. Motion
to recommend to council that the draft of the 1993 CHAS be approved,
was made by Moore, seconded by Eastham, carried 5-0.
- Review Draft CHAS Annual Performance Report 1992 - Lindsay
The CHAS Annual Performance Report is for the federal fiscal year
October - September and details activities, projects and programs that
were actually completed. Lindsay stated a Housing Commission
recommendation will be requested at the December meeting and to get
comments on the report to her before then.
- Recommendation HOME Application for Rehab of O'Reilly Hotel - Barnes
Application for approximately $300,000 HOME funds will be submitted to
Iowa Department of Economic Development for rehab of the historic
structure located at 624 South Clinton Street. This project will rehab
8 one-bedroom units, 6 two-bedroom units, and one three-bedroom unit
and all will have affordable rents for a minimum of ten years. In
addition it meets top priority of the CHAS to expand affordable rental
housing stock. Motion to recommend to council that the application for
HOME funds for Rehabilitation of O'Reilly Hotel be approved, was made
by Eastham, seconded by McMahon, carried 5-0,
DISCUSSION
Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship update - Eastham stated they are
waiting for the contract in order to purchase three duplexes and do the
rehab.
Moore reminded staff to have information included in packets so that
Housing commission members have time to review before the meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: Motion to adjourn at
seconded by McMahon, carried 5-0.
10:05 AM was made by Moore,
APPROVED BY,
Benjamin J. Moore, Chairperson
,
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
DECEMBER 9, 1992.6:00 P.M.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT CONFERENCE ROOM. CIVIC CENTER
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MEMBERS PRESENT:
DOUG Russell, KAY IRELAN, BErrY KELLY, SUE LICHT, KEVIN
HANICK, JAY SEMEL
NONE
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
OTHERS PRESENT:
BOB MIKLO
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Russell called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
John Cress, 23 Caroline Court, said he Is opposed to the Historic Preservation Plan. He said he
! owns rental property at 624 North Linn Street and Is bothered that his property Is close to a
i proposed preservation district. Russell asked where Cress' property Is located. Cress said the
i house Is between Ronalds and Church Streets. Mlklo asked If Cress had read the plan. Cress
i said he had not. Mlklo provided Cress a copy of the plan. He said It does not Indicate specific
I homes for preservation. Cress said his property Is near the area targeted for preservation.
I
i Cress said he doesn't feel the City should regulate what people can do wllh their homes, for
! example making porch additions. He cited the Montessori School's desire to make an addition
. I to their existing structure and said the school should be able to do as they choose with the
I property, as long as the area Is properly zoned and additions meet setback requirements.
I Hanlck said Cress' concerns regarding his property on Linn Street are unfounded. He said Cress'
I rental permit would not be In Jeopardy because the area Is not within a historical district. He said
I the only restrictions on Cress are regulations regarding rental properties. Russell slated that Ills
possible to add onto historic houses, such as the Montessori School.
Cress said If a property In a historical preservation district burns down, he Is worried the plan
would require the house to be rebuilt to very exacting standards; It would be difficult to Insure
a home under those conditions.
Russell said there are groups of houses In historic preservation districts on South Summit street
and the Woodlawn district which are controlled by the Historic Preservation ordinance. He said
any houses outside those districts are not controlled by the ordinance. Russell said he does not
believe 624 North Linn will be In a district. Russell said the Historic Preservation ordinance
addresses exterior modifications to houses; those modifications are subJect to review.
Russell said he understands Cress' concerns are philosophical rather than practical, since his
property won't be affected. He recommended Cress review the Historic Preservation Plan and
contact Mlklo with any questions. He said Cress would be notified If any future historic
preservation district was planned to Include his property.
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December 9, 1992
Page 2
Mlklo said Cress should know If a property In a historic preservation district bums down, an exact
replica Is not required. He saId the general preservation philosophy Is that the rebuilt house fit
In with the surrounding homes. He said a good example of a rebuilt house Is on College Street,
just east of College Hili park; next to the Dixon house there Is a very modem structure that fits
In with the surrounding area because similar sized windows, porches, and setback were used.
Russell thanked Cress for his comments. He said the Commission has not heard from many
opponents of the plan, outside of the City Council meeting. Cress said he Is amazed by the
number of people affected by the plan who were not present at the City Council meeting. He
asked If people are aware of the plan. Russell said the Commission has used the media and the
Council public hearings to publlclze the plan.
CONSIDERATION OF OCTOBER 6,1992. MINUTES:
Russell said he thought a clarification of the last sentence of paragraph one, page two was
necessary; the sentence says this Commission will ask that the Preservation Plan be forwarded
to the City Council. Russell said he thought the Executive Summary and Neighborhood
Strategies was to be forwarded.
Mlklo said the sentence probably needed further clarification that there are two elements; adoption
of the Historic Preservation Plan and adoption of the Executive Summary and Neighborhood
Strategies Into the Comprehensive Plan. He said he thinks the Council understands there are
two elements.
I
Russell said the minutes should be amended to read this Commission will ask that the City
Council approve the Historic Preservation Plan and Incorporate the Executive Summary and
Neighborhood Strategies Into the Comprehensive Plan.
Licht arrived at 6:20 p.m.
Hanlck said the minutes should be further amended to correct two spelling errors; Mary Beth'
Slonager should be Mary Beth Slonneger, and Carl Klause should be Carl Klaus.
Russell asked" paragraph three, page five, should be clarified to reflect the action taken was by
the Historic Preservation Commission, not the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mlklo said that
Intent Is clear because the paragraph mentions names of Historic Preservation Commission
members.
Motion by Kelly, second by Licht, to epprove the minutes of the October 6, 1992 meeting
with the Planning and Zoning Commission as amended. The motion carried on a 6.0 vote.
CONSIDERATION OF OCTOBER 13, 1992, MINUTES:
Russell asked" the amendment to the Neighborhood Strategies had been corrected before the
document was forwarded to the City Council. Mlklo saId It had been.
Motion by Semel, second by Hanlck, to approve the minutes of the October 13, 1992
meeting. The motion carried on a 6.0 vote.
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Historic Preservation Commission
December 9, 1992
Page 3
CONSIDERATION OF NOVEMBER 2.1992. MINUTES:
Licht said she disagreed with a statement In the paragraph one, page three. The statement Is
that Judy McClure of the State Historic Preservation Office suggested a porch over the fourth
door should not be added since it wasn't part of the original structure. Licht said she believes that
was not McClure's intent.
MikJo said the project McClure was discussing will not be going forward with federal funds, so the
Commission's recommendation Is not required. He said the project will be going forward with the
design discussed.
Russell said the minutes should be corrected to express McClure's Intent.
Licht said McClure's Intent was that a fourth porch could be added, but It should not mimic the
other porches as If It were part of the original structure. Russell clarified that the sentence
should be changed to read 'Judy McClure. . . suggested that this should not be made to look
as It II were part of the original structure.' Licht said that would more accurately reflect McClure's
Intent; the rest of the paragraph Is accurate.
Motion by Hanlck, second by Kelly, to approve the minutes 01 the November 2, 1992
meeting. The motion carried on a 6-0 vote.
DISCUSSION OF SUMMIT STREET PLAQUE:
I
Semel said he had drafted some wording for the plaque, but would prefer that the Commission
rethink their original plan for the content of the plaque. He said the Commission originally
Indicated the plaque should describe the history of the area, but later decided to concentrate on
one Individual structure, Ardenla. Semel said In researching Ardenla, he discovered the house
had been demolished. He read the statement which described the house, gardens, legends, and
current use.
Mlklo said It should be noted the developer of the area Is paying for the plaque. Hanlck said the
gardens Semel's statement described stili exist.
Semel said he'd like more time to redraft a new description.
Russell said the plaque could point to area landmarks, Instead of the history. Miklo said the text
Semel has already prepared was quite good and could be used In the redraft, and Include area
landmarks.
Russell asked Semel to prepare a new draft for the January meeting.
PRESERVATION PLAN UPDATE:
Mlklo said the next meeting at which the City Council will discuss the Historic Preservation Plan
will be Monday, December 14, and the public hearing will continue on Tuesday, December 15,
1992. He said Historic Preservation Consultant Marlys Svendsen has met with representatives
from Mercy Hospital and a productive meeting regarding their concerns about historic preservation
districts.
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Hlstonc Preservation Commission
December 9, 1992
Page 4
Russell asked that as many commissioners as possible be present at the City Council meetings.
Licht asked If the Council would be vollng on the plan next week. Miklo said the Council has
Indicated they would vote.
Russeil said it was an oversight that discussions with Mercy Hospital had not occurred eanler and
none of their property Is an area which was surveyed. He said apparentiy the first time hospital
administrators heard of the plan was when they received a copy of the plan and realized they
were In the middle of a potential cons~rvatlon distnct. He said he believed the meellng with
Svendsen was amicable; the hospital Is not necessarily against the plan, but do not want their
buildings to be In a conservation dlstnct. He said the hospital administrators' apprehension about
the plan Is apparently because they do not want to add another layer of time and effort to building
and expansion. Russell said the hospital's expansion plans are eastward, not westward.
Russell said the plan Is separate from any legislative recommendation that may come from this
Commission later. He said he told them the Commission may send a package of legislation to
the City Council which Includes a landmark ordinance, conservation districts, special exceptions,
economic hardship exceptions, and tightening of demolition regulations; If that legislation was
approved, specific dlstncts would be proposed. He said he told the administrators he didn't know
If the hospital would be In a conservation district, but that It Is likely that the north side of the city
will be, and that may Include the hospital.
He said Mercy Hospital administrators will deal with this Issue as it develops. He said he would
like to hear the hospital's long range plans; the administrators are aware they may hear
resistance from neighbors, not the City, regarding expansion.
Russell said the Northslde Neighborhood Association Is circulating a petition In favor of the
Hlstonc Preservation Plan. He asked other Commissioners to let him know of pnvate citizens'
comments about the plan.
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LETTER FROM VINCENT PROSSER REGARDING LEWIS HOUSE:
Russell said the commission received a letter from Vincent Prosser regarding a house In disrepair
which the present owner plans to demolish and build an apartment building on that site, Mlklo
said the house had been offered to anyone who would move It off the site.
Russell said he sent a letter to Prosser Informing him that his letter would be discussed tonight;
a response to Prosser would be appropriate. Russell said perhaps the Commission could
recommend Prosser organize other concerned citizens to move the house. Semel said he'd
prefer to tell Prosser that the Commission has very limited powers regarding prohibiting the owner
from demolishing the house In an area zoned for apartment buildings.
Licht said the letter should suggesl that the Commission Is also bothered by the destruction of
an historic house, but have no junsdlctlon In the case. Hanlck said even If the Preservation Plan
were In place, It would not protect this house because the area Is not In a conservation district.
Mlklo said If the city had a landmark ordinance, this house would clearly be eligible; the legend
Is that this house was a log cabin which was added onto over the years. Russell said once a
landfTl~rk ordinance Is passed, the Commission should concentrate on getting the designation for
houses whose owners have Indicated they want the designation.
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Historic Preservation Commission
December 9, 1992
Page 5
Kelly said she would take a photograph of the house before it Is demolished as an example of
what happens when historical landmarks are not maintained; the photograph could be used during
Preservation Week.
DISCUSSION REGARDING ARTICLE ABOUT CONSERVATION DISTRICT:
Mlklo said the article was Included In the packet to show that conservation districts are being used
across the country as a way to preserve property values and uphold neighborhoods.
UPDATE OF O'REILLY HOTEL RENOVATION:
Mlklo said the O'Reilly Hotel project will not be federally funded, so the review by the Commission
will not be used. Ucht said the property owner will be privately funding the project. Hanlck said
the developer will use the plan discussed with the Commission. He said federal funds will not
be used because the bureaucracy takes too long.
INVITATION TO OPEN HOUSE AT 410 NORTH LUCAS STREET:
Russell said Ken and Mary Beth Slonneger renovated the house and have Invited people to see
the finished project. Mlklo said the Commission received the Invitation.
NORTH SIDE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION HOME TOUR:
Russell said the Northslde Neighborhood Association sponsored a home tour last weekend;
approximately 125 tickets were sold. He said the association may decide to do this annually and
are considering a spring garden tour.
I
BLUFFWOOD PROJECT:
Licht said she attended a meeting tonight with other people concerned about Bluftwood. She said
the group has decided to make a formal recommendation to the Parks and Recreation
Commission that the structure be moved to Hickory Hili park.
Licht said a local group will restore a chimney swift tower which recently came Into their
possession and move that structure to Hickory Hili as well. She said the chimney swifts are
fascinating to see, birds are attracted to the tower and many bird types can be observed.
Russell said he drafted a letter to send to Bill Happel, but perhaps It would be better to walt until
after Licht's groups meets with Parks and Recreation Commission.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION WEEK AND AWARDS CEREMONY:
Kelly said the Historic Preservation Awards ceremony will be held Wednesday, May 12, 1993.
She said the Johnson County Historical Society will also be giving awards at the ceremony,
Including the newly established Irving Weber Award. Russell said the county awards will be for
projects outside the city limits.
Kelly said based on comments from previous awards ceremonies, the organizational committee
has decided not to have a keynote speaker this year and to dedicate more time for discussion
from the jurors.
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Historic Preservation Commission
December 9, 1992
Page 6
Kelly asked if other commissioners would like to use the County Courthouse again thIs year for
the awards. Russell said the site worked well last year and use of a county building encourages
the Board of Supervisors to attend the ceremony.
Kelly said several prospective Jurors are being considered. Discussion ensued regarding the
potential Jurors and their qualifications. Hanlck recommended a UI visiting professor In urban
planning; Russell suggested some of the judges from previous years be called upon.
Kelly said Hills Bank was a corporate sponsor of the awards last year. Hanick said First National
Bank would like to be Involved this year. Licht suggested Kelly contact Bob Slerk at First
National, his wife used to be a member of this Commission.
Kelly said one new Idea for the awards this year Is to place signs designating the nominees prior
to the Judging period, so people will be aware of the awards; a blue ribbon could be placed on
the sign In front of the winning entry. MikJo asked the source of funding for the signs. Kelly said
at this point, there Is no funding for the signs.
Russell suggested Kelly contact Friends of Preservation to see If they would like to be co-
sponsors for the program.
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED REZONING FROM RM-12 TO RS-12:
Hanlck said he and Licht attended a meeting of neighbors from the area near Jefferson and Clapp
Streets who were concerned about a proposed development In that area. He said local contractor
Jim Muller has proposed demolishing a house at the comer of Jefferson and Clapp and attaching
a structure to the house next door to the lot. He said Muller told Council he would hold off his
plans until he met with area neighbors and members of the Historic Preservation Commission.
Hanlck said after attending the meeting, he felt It was more of a design review Issue.
Licht said she didn't get the feeling that the neighbors were upset about the design of the
proposed structure. Miklo said this Is not really a historic preservation Issue. He said neighbors
are concerned about the density of the neighborhood and Increased traffic, and they will probably
continue their opposition.
DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED ADDITION TO MONTESSORI SCHOOL:
Hanlck said the Montessori School will have to get a Special Exception to expand their current
building. He said representatives from the school shared their preliminary plan with neighbors
who were opposed to the expansion. He said neighbors cite traffic problems, but the school
seems very willing to work out a plan so their addition will fit In with the rest of the area.
Hanlck said the Issue Is very complex; at a neighborhood meeting, residents had a long list of
complaints about the school, not limited to complaints regarding the expansion. He said the
meeting was not very civil. Hanlck said he believes some neighbors may be using historic
preservation as a means to voice general opposition 10 expansion. Licht said she objects to
bringing historic preservation Inlo Ihe argument between neighbors,
Irelan said she attended the neighborhood meeting and was offended by the rudeness of some
neighbors. She said many neighbors saw the presence of the Montessori School In the
neighborhood as the main problem.
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Historic Preservation Commission
December 9, 1992
Page 7
Hanlck said the school Is limited In the design of the addition because there exists an agreement
with the City that the school will not develop the property they own that Is within 25 feet of Reno
Park without approval of the City. He said If the school was allowed to build Into that 25 feet,
they could 'come up wiih a more sound design, In terms of historic preservation.
Irelan said some neighbors were concerned that the school would keep expanding. Russell said
the Commission should keep abreast of the situation. He said he, too, went to the neighborhood
meeting to clear up the misconception that you ruin an historic building by adding onto It. Mlklo
said the Commission should let people know that an historic building can be added onto.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion to adjourn at 7:55 p.m.
Submitted by Katl Kennedy Brown.
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