HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-03-30 Bd Comm minutes
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MINUTES
BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PLUMBERS
FEBRUARY 4, 1993
CIVIC CENTER
ENGINEERING DIVISION MEETING ROOM 149
MEMBERS PRESENT: Frank Kilpatrick, Rick Bachelder, Jane Hagedorn
STAFF PRESENT: Bernie Osvald, Ron Boose
OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Carlson (Chairperson for the Board of Appeals), Dwight
Norris and AI Breese (Plumbing Contractors)
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by lhe Chairperson, Frank Kilpatrick, at 4:35 pm,
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING:
It was moved by Hagedorn, seconded by Bachelder, to approve the minutes of the
November 10, 1992 meeting as submitted. The motion carried unanimously.
DISCUSSION OF THE STAFF RECOMMENDATION TO CONSOLIDATE THE BOARD
OF EXAMINERS OF PLUMBERS WITH THE BOARD OF APPEALS:
Kilpatrick stated the duties of the Plumbing Board Including screening the applicants
for the plumbing exams, Issuing licenses to competent applicants, and serving as a
grievance board should any disagreement arise between a Master Plumber and the
Plumbing Inspector. He noted that although the Uniform Plumbing Code does not
have provisions for licensing of plumbers, the Board of Examiners Is listed in the Index
as Section 323 which Is a blank section.
Boose told of his reasons for recommending disbanding the Board of Examiners of
Plumbers and their duties being assigned to the Board of Appeals: To streamline the
Boards and the ongoing difficulty in finding citizen members for the Board. In his
opinion the duties of the Plumbing Board could be effectively accomplished by the
Board of Appeals If a licensed plumber were added as a member of the Board of
Appeals.
Hagedorn stated that she had no problems with consolidating the Boards If a member
of the Board was a licensed plumber, but, In her conversations with other plumbers
In town some of them expressed their concern with the elimination of the practical
portion of the plumbers exam.
Kilpatrick stated that he could probably pass the Block and Associates plumbing exam
because of his background knowledge of the Plumbing Code, but, you wouldn't want
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him to Install your plumbing.
Breese and Norris both stated their concern for the elimination of the practical portion
of the plumbing exam as a means to assure a level of competency In the Installation
of plumbing. Breese stated that It was probably less of a problem in residential
plumbing. But, Norris said that commercial plumbing is becoming Increasingly more
complicated with the possibility of contamination In water supplies and gas
distribution lines in hospital situations.
Ron stated that there Is a problem with objectivity In the grading of the practical
portion of a plumbing exam.
Kilpatrick noted that it would be very difficult for a city to set up a practical exam
which would truly test the practical competency of a plumber. Some states have set
up elaborate testing programs by which the plumbers practical aptitude Is tested.
Osvald said that reinstating the practical portion of the exam would not be feasible
because most of the other Jurisdictions in the state have eliminated the practical
portion of their exams and gone to the Block and Associates testing agency's exam.
This has been done by the Individual Jurisdictions to provide e standard exam and
promote reciprocal licensing agreements between Jurisdictions. It was asked by
Kilpatrick If all jurisdictions have the same four year experience requirements before
the individual Is eligible to take the exam. Osveld said no, but, In the amendments
it states that In order to receive a reciprocal license the applicant must also meet all
of the experience requirements.
Norris asked what was the background of the present members Board of Appeals.
Carlson related that he was an architect, that they have a mechanical engineer, two
building contrectors end another citizen on the present board. He also stated that if
a question comes up that the Board of Appeals needs to address that they talk to the
experts of that field for background Information. The experts may be engineers or
ICBO who are the authors of the Uniform Building Code. He said that It may be
necessary that the Board of Appeals have specified expertise for Its members.
Boose said that although It would be good to have specific expertise for the members
of the Board of Appeals he was afraid to make It too restrictive as to cause a difficulty
to find new members. '
Bachelder said that he had no problem with disbanding the Plumbing Board as long as
the Board of Appeals has a licensed plumber as a member.
Frank said that If the Plumbing Board Is disbanded that the Iowa City amendments to
the Uniform Plumbing Code and the Iowa City amendments to the Uniform Building
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Code would both need to be changed to reflect the changes In the Boards. He also
offered to provide amendment language that will permit the Appeals Board to rule on
any dispute concerning the plumbing code.
Hagedorn asked that we have a straw vote among all those present at the meeting
to disband the Board of Examiners of Plumbers and to consolidate Its responsibilities
with the Board of Appeals If provisions are made to have a member of the Board have
expertise from the plumbing field.
The vote was unanimous In favor of disbanding the Board of Examiners of Plumbers
and consolidating Its responsibilities with the Board of Appeals.
Kilpatrick asked that the minutes of this meeting be made available to the City Council
and all present at the meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS:
There was no other business.
ADJOURNMENT.;.
Hagedorn moved for adjournment and the meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Bernie Osvald, Secretary, Board of Examiners of Plumbers.
Approved by: frrwi ;:;;buf~
Chairman Frank Kilpatrick
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MINUTES
BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PLUMBERS
MARCH 19, 1993
CIVIC CENTER
ENGINEERING DIVISION MEETING ROOM 149
MEMBERS PRESENT: Frank Kilpatrick, Rick Bachelder, Jane Hagedorn
STAFF PRESENT: Bernie Osvald
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OTHERS PRESENT: Bob Eggers
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by the Chairperson, Frank Kilpatrick, at 4:55 pm.
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APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE LAST MEETING:
It was moved by Hagedorn, seconded by Bachelder, to approve the minutes of the
February 4, 1993 meeting as submitted. The motion carried unanimously.
REVIEW OF THE APPLICATIONS FOR PLUMBING LICENSING EXAMS TO BE HELD
APRIL 17. 1993:
Five applied to take the Journeyman Plumbers exam and three applied to take the
Master Plumbers exam. Bob Eggers, Donald Parker, Brian Clark, Dennis O'Donnell,
and Mark Jones were all approved to take the Journeyman Plumbers exam. Steve
Brown, Charles Nejdl, and Duane Schnoebelen were approved to take the Master
Plumbers exam.
OTHER BUSINESS:
It was requested by a citizen, Bob O'Donnell, that the subject of the inspection of the
curb stops be brought up. He had related to Bernie that on occasion the curb stop is
damaged after the Installation and during the final grading of the ]obslte and that the
home own'er Is stuck with the expense of repair because It Is not noticed until years
later. Bernie related that the water department maps the curb stop locations. Bernie
said that If he sees a damaged curb stop that It Is brought to the attention of the
contractor, but, that It may not be noticed at the final Inspection. After some
discussion the Board stated that If a curb stop Is found to be damaged that the owner
should be able to have the contractor repair the curb stop.
Frank Kilpatrick related that this is the last meeting of the Plumbing Board and that
It has been a pleasure working with the other members on the Plumbing Board. Jane
hagedorn and Rick Bachelder also expressed their gratification with the good working
relationship with the other members of the Board.
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ADJOURNMENT:
Hagedorn moved for adjournment and the meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Bernie Osvald, Secretary, Board of Examiners of Plumbers.
Approved by:
Chairman Frank Kilpatrick
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HINUTES
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
March 10, 1993
MEMBERS PRESENT:
John Beasley, Tom Bender, Bill Brandt, Deb
Liddell, Jennifer Olson, Matt Pacha, Dee
Vanderhoef, John Watson, Mary Weideman
STAFF PRESENT:
Kriz, Howell, Moran, Trueblood
GUESTS:
Richard S. Rhodes II, Kate Franks Klaus, Carl
Klaus, Joni Kinsey, Robert Sayre, Barbara
Boyle, plus others who did not sign in
FORMAL ACTION
TAKEN:
Liddell stated a correction should be made to
the February 10 minutes under the Riverfront &
Natural Areas Commission Report, page 6,
paragraph 1, noting the third line should read
"and in the process of reviewing the Stanley
plan." Moved bv Brandt. seconded bv Liddell:
to approve the minutes of the Februarv 10
1993 meetina as amended. Unanimous.
BLUFFWOOD HOUSE:
Joni Kinsey, Assistant Professor of Art at the
university of Iowa, stated she was asked by
the Friends of Bluffwood Cottage to speak to
the commission regarding the cottage, its
historical significance, and the proposed
project. A slide presentation was given
depicting nineteenth-century archi tectural
style homes, the Bluffwood Cottage, and the
proposed new site for the cottage. The
proposed site is southwest of the intersection
of Stuart Court and First Avenue, north of
Rochester Avenue. The area is city property,
adjacent to the northern edge of Regina High
School property and eastern edge of HiCkory
Hill Park. The area is designated as a
drainage spillway reserve, but is above the
100 year floodplain. The group envisions it
as a gateway into Hickory Hill Park. Weideman.
asked if the group had any back up plans if
the house cannot be relocated in Hickory Hill
Park. A member of the group stated they had
looked at other sites which were far less
amenable. She also stated the house is an
awkward shape, which would prohibit it being
moved through narrow, older parts of Iowa
City, noting there are many restrictions
making it very diffiCUlt, if not impossible to
move the house to another site.
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Weideman noted the first issue for discussion
was the appropriateness of placing a structure
in Hickory Hill Park, and polled each
commission member. Watson stated this is a
unique opportunity similar to the chimney
swift tower, and did not see it as opening the
floodgate for structures being placed in
Hickory Hill Park. He stated it was his firm
conviction to maintain the park as natural as
possible, adding he did not see this .as
creeping development in that the proposed site
is in a residential area. Olson stated it
appears development around this area is
occurring and felt it would be a shame for the
building to be demolished. Bender stated he
did not think placing the cottage in the park
would diminish the park's value, noting the
site is on the edge of the park and it
appeared no mature trees would need to be cut
down. He stated if there was no other' planned
use for this area, he felt the site would be a
good spot for the cottage. Liddell stated
she had concerns about the impact of the move
and the presence of a structure in habitat for
wildlife. She related an experience which
reminded her of how fragile the eco-system is
that left her with a feeling of wanting to
protect it. She felt the proposed project
would change the use of the park, and would
like to explore it further before making a
final decision. Beasley stated it appeared it
would have been cheaper for the group to have
purchased the house when it was for sale and
leaving it at its present site. A member of
the group stated there were a number of
contingencies/restrictions tied to the sale,
such as the cottage would be treated as a
condominium but the owner would not have had
the same rights as other condominium owners.
Beasley stated he needed more information
before making a decision, noting concerns with
how it would affect the environment and
possible vandalism. Vanderhoef stated she was
interested in developing an entry to the
trails and use of the park in the proposed
site's general vicinity. She noted there is
not a lot of parkland in the area (other than
Hickory Hill), and felt it was important to
have an east side entry into the park making
it more accessible to the surrounding
neighborhood. She stated she had sympathy for
the house but was not ready to make a final
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decision at this time. Brandt stated his
feeling that the house would not subtract or
add to the wildlife in the area, noting
development on the west side of First Avenue
will not occur. He stated he felt there was
no better place for the cottage than at the
proposed site, but also stated he had concerns
with respect to possible vandalism and the
cost of the project. Pacha stated aside from
the parking lot and cost, he did not have a
problem with locating the cottage at the
proposed site. Brandt stated putting a
parking lot in would add to the possible
problems, and suggested that it be eliminated
in that there was on-street parking in this
area. Weideman stated she had concerns with
regard to maintenance and upkeep of the
cottage.
Barbara Boyle stated she did not feel a house
in Hickory Hill Park is appropriate. She
stated if the cottage was allowed to be placed
in the park she personally saw the focal point
of the park changing from a natural area to a
people oriented use of the natural area. She
noted the Chimney Swift Tower group may not
wish to keep their proposal qn the table,
feeling they may have opened the doors for
structures being placed in the park.
Sandy Rhodes stated he had concerns about the
impact on the environment, and noted the park
should be preserved in as natural a state as
is possible.
A member of the Bluffwood group stated they
did not start out wanting to put the cottage
in Hickory Hill Park; they examined a number
of sites and feel Hickory Hill Park is the
only possible site. Weideman asked if they
had considered Ryerson's Woods, with a member
stating the distance the cottage would need to
be moved was prohibitive and it would be much
more remote in terms of accessibility and
security. A member of the group stated they
were very aware that moving a building into
Hickory Hill Park represented an incursion I
and will do everything possible to minimize
the nature of this incursion.
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Liddell stated the proposed project calls for
the structure to be placed on city property
and to be restored and renovated for public
use. She asked what impact accessibility
would have on it. Trueblood stated the city
intends to follow the spirit and the letter of
the Americans with Disabilities Act, and any
building open to the public on city property
will have to follow the ADA guidelines.
Liddell expressed concern that accessible
pathways would negatively impact the natural
area. Various members of the public expressed
concerns with the affect this project would
have on the natural area and would like
Hickory Hill Park to remain as a natural area.
A member of the Bluffwood group stated the
general public has diverse interests and the
project was formulated to serve multiple uses.
A memo prepared by staff setting out estimated
city expenses was distributed. There was
discussion about various' items, such as
removing the parking lot from the, list and
other items that could possibly be eliminated.
The accessibility issue was raised again with
regard to the restroom. Trueblood indicated
the costs were not all inclusive, but only
those costs the city would incur, as requested
by the Bluffwood group. Brandt stated there
was not enough funds in the budget to maintain
what the city already has, and questioned
investing money in something that we cannot
properly maintain. pacha asked where the city
would get the money to help finance this
project, with Trueblood stating it would need
to come out of the department's budget. The
commission would need to review the list of
CIP projects which were funded and decide what
project(s) they would eliminate in order to
obtain the money needed for this project.
Weideman asked if there were any capital
requirements of the city, with a member of the
group stating one way to think about the cost
is not in terms of which portion of cost the
city wishes to go forward with but whether the
city wishes to make an investment of this kind
in the addition to the city park system of a
particular kind 'of element that does not
presently exist.
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CHIMNEY SWIFT
TOWER PROJECT:
Liddell asked how the cottage would be used,
with a member of the group stating they were
forming coalitions with other groups and the
cottage would serve as an educational
purpose/interpretative center.
Weideman stated a special meeting would be
held next Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. to further
discuss the proposed project, with a decision
being made at the regular meeting in April. A
member of the group stated if the cost of the
project was the main reason for not approving
the project, they would like the commission to
corne up with a number they feel could be the.
ceiling of what could be put in the budget.
. Watson stated it would help to know how much
money the group felt they could raise.
Weideman stated it would also be helpful to
receive information from the group on other
successful projects of this nature,
environmental impact, and ideas on handicapped
accessibility.
Trueblood stated the commission received a
copy of a letter from Mr. and Mrs. Parrott
regarding the proposed location of the chimney
swift tower. ,They expressed concern with the
tower being located so close to their home.
Barbara Boyle stated she looked at several
other spots in this same general area, and
felt they could move it away from the
Parrott's lot line. Staff will work with both
parties to resolve any problems.
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PARKS & RECREATION Brandt presented the commission with Iowa city
FOUNDATION REPORT: Parks and Recreation Foundation t-shirts. The
t-shirts will be used in upcoming fund raising
efforts. The foundation is beginning the
process of SOliciting funds from businesses; a
$25 contribution would entitle them to receive
one free t-shirt. The foundation is also in
the preliminary stages of planning a three on
three basketball tournament, with all funds
realized being contributed to the foundation.
VILLAGE GREEN The commission was shown a location map of the
SOUTH SUBD.: Village Green South SUbdivision, where the
developer is proposing to donate parkland.
Trueblood stated he attended a joint staff
meeting which discussed this proposal.
Various staff recommended D.Q.t. accepting the
property, at least as it stands now. The main
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reason is a significant portion of the area
will be a wet-bottom stormwater detention
facility and is not good land for park
purposes. The public Works Department and
city Attorney's office are concerned with the
liability aspects if this wet-bottom area was
accepted by the city. Trueblood pointed out a
1.26 acre parcel at the north end of the
proposed donation which has possibilities for
being .a neighborhood park area. The main
problem with this parcel is it has only one
access, and additional property would be
needed to make it more viable. Watson stated
that, according to the Neighborhood Open space
Plan, there is a deficit of parkland in this
area, and even though the area is not ideal
the commission should seriously consider it.
There were questions as to how much usable
area there would be, with no clear answer.
The commission decided to invite the developer
to the April meeting.
TRAILS COMMITTEE: Liddell reported, the Riverfront and Natural
Areas Commission is taking the lead on
studying the Stanley plan. They will be
looking at a 13 mile riverfront trail system
that will provide opportunities for urban
transportation and will connect with
neighborhood parks. Liddell stated she would
be chairing the Trails Committee and would
appreciate having another commission member on
the committee. Vanderhoef stated she was very
interested and volunteered to serve on the
committee.
COMMISSION TIME:
Olson stated she will be resigning from the
commission, as she has accepted a research
project in Norway. Her final meeting will be
May 12.
John Beasley indicated he spoke recently with
Kevin Berg, an Iowa city public service police
officer, regarding the problems he encounters
with rollerblading and skateboards. He stated
there is not a place in Iowa city for mountain
bikers to ride their bikes, or for
rollerbladers or skateboarders to go and enjoy
,their sport. He asked Officer Berg if he
would be interested in sharing what he has
learned with the commission, and he was
willing to do so. Weideman stated the
commission would tentatively plan on putting
this matter on the May agenda.
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DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Trueblood reported on the following:
Hunter's Run: A copy of a letter sent to
Margaret Gugliano was distributed to the
commission. It appears there could be a
neighborhood group forming who is interested
in gaining momentum for some playground
equipment being placed in the area for the
neighborhood children.
Recreation Center Roof: Staff met with Shive-
Hattery regarding their estimates on replacing
the Recreation Center roof, and will be
meeting with the city Manager t9 discuss
options. Trueblood noted the cost will be
even higher than Shive-Hattery's estimates if
it is determined that existing roof materials
contain asbestos.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
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MINUTES
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
March 17, 1993
PRELIMINARY
Subject to Approval
MEMBERS PRESENT:
John Beasley, Bill Brandt, Deb Liddell,
Jennifer Olson, Matt Pacha, Dee Vanderhoef,
John Watson, Mary Weideman
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Tom Bender
STAFF PRESENT:
Kriz, Howell, Moran, Trueblood
GUESTS:
Robert F. Sayre, Jeff Schabilion, Margery B.
Steiner, Margrieta Delle, Barbara Boyle, Jim
Walters, Jim Throgmorton, Bud Gode, Jan Nash,
Caroline Dieterle
Moved bv Liddell. seconded bv Brandt. to approve the minutes of the
March 10. 1993 meetina as written. Unanimous.
Weideman opened the meeting glvlng members of the public an
opportunity to speak with regard to relocating the Bluffwood House
into Hickory Hill Park. Robert Sayre stated the group was unable
to gather the information requested by the commission at last
week's meeting due to lack of time. He assured the commission the
Friends of Bluffwood Cottage have the expertise, talent, experience
and money to move the house, and have the staying power to get the
job done and staying with it over five years. He stated four
members of the group were also members of the Historic Preservation
Commission and the project is supported by the Johnson County
Historical Society who are willing to provide their expertise on
the interpretative quality of the structure. He noted the reason
behind this project is the Haddock house is an important aesthetic
and historic monument in Iowa city, and important because of what
it meant to the Haddocks and what they learned living in it. He
stated this was a very significant function of the park, and the
v~lue of the park as an educational, cultural, recreational
institution would be enhanced by the Haddock experience. He read
a letter that he had written and asked that it be part of the
record.
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Margery steiner stated she lived in the neighborhood where the
house is proposed to be moved to. She indicated today was the
first time she heard about the project, and urged the commission
not to make a final decision without a full hearing of the matter.
She stated area residents should have a chance to learn about the
project and digest the information prior to the commission making
a final decision. She indicated she would not state she did not
approve of the project, but noted concerns with respect to the
possible increase in traffic and changing the nature of the park.
Caroline Dieterle stated the people she mentioned ~he project to
were appalled and thought it was an awful idea which sets a
precedent. She noted they were most offended that it was being
done in the name of preservation. She felt it was supreme irony
ruining a wild place to put a house in, and Hickory Hill Park was
not a place to put it. She stated she agreed with snyder's comment
that a public hearing should be held. She questioned the effort
made finding other sites, and asked.if the group had approached the
Turners regarding Rose Hill. ~he felt Rose Hill would be a good
site for the house.
Jeff Schabilion stated it would be helpful if people understood
what site the group is proposing, noting it was in an area most
people do not realize is part of Hickory Hill Park. He stated the
commission has an opportunity to reaffirm the vision the Downings
had, emphasizing awareness and concern of the environment. He
stated moving the house to the proposed site is important for
maintaining natural environment. He noted the commission's concern
with lack of information on what the house would be used for, He
stated there was a great deal of flexibility in what might be the
highest and best use of the facility. It could possibly not be
opened to the public, having minimal signing explaining the
historic and environmental significance of the park. He noted
other's concerns about how the house would look and parking. He
stated as far as the house's exterior it would be conducive to
2
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maintaining the environment of the park. He asked the commission
not to discount these concerns as being impediments. He noted
there is a lot of flexibility on the part of the group wanting to
save the house.
Barbara Boyle stated she was not opposed to the group's efforts to
restore the cottage; her opposition is putting the house in HiCkory
Hill Park. She noted the focus should be on Hickory Hill Park as
being the real issue in this matter. She stated Hickory Hill Park
to date has been protected as a natural area and not per se a
recreational area; she felt this was why people loved the park.
She stated she did not think people can afford to look at the
proposed immediate area as not environmentally sensitive. She
noted she did not have a clear picture as to how many buildings
were going to be moved; at one time the proposal called for moving
the house and outbuildings into this area. She.stated the group's
commi tment needed to be more than five years, it should be a
"forever" commitment. She questioned after a certain amount of
time lapsed who would be taking care of the house. She stated the
house, if moved to this proposed area would not be on a bluff as it
is now, and questioned why it was so necessary to put the house in
the park. She felt there were other more appropriate places for
the house, noting the proposed area would not duplicate the
original setting.
Jim Throgmorton stated he is a very strong supporter of historic
preservation and a natural resource preservationist also. He f~lt
Hickory Hill Park was not a recreational cultural resource, in that
it is a home to wildlife; nor is it a wild place. He stated the
park is something in between because of where it is located. He
strongly supports moving the house, but not to the proposed site.
He felt putting the house in Hickory Hill Park would radically
al ter the character of the park. He stated he walked the area
around the current location of the house and the proposed site, and
noted the two sites are totally different. He appealed the group
3
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to find another site. ,He suggested they check with Nadine Larson
relative to accessing some of her property, and suggested an area
in North Hickory Hill Park (area recently designated as parkland)
which he felt would duplicate the house's present setting. He
noted that since the area (North Hickory Hill) has been grazed it
would not destroy living creatures and be a stable point for
regeneration of the area.
Bud Gode stated he was in favor pf preserving the structure, but
that it should not be placed in Hickory Hill Park. He expressed
concerns that the house would be a financial burden to the
taxpayers. He noted he has seen the city budget increase every
year for 20 years, and asked when it was going to stop. He stated
the group needs to look at some other means of financing, and how
other groups have financed this type of historic preservation in
other sites. He felt the taxpayer should not underwrite this
project. He ~elt the cost could be covered by using volunteers and
fundraising.
Jim Walters referred to the statement he wrote to the Press-Citizen
regarding this project (copy attached). He stated the commission
has been very open with regard to this matter, the meetings are
open for the public to attend, and it is the decision of the press
whether to cover the meetings. He stated many other individuals
would be opposed to the proposal to move the house into Hickory
Hill Park.
Caroline Dieterle pointed out that the Rose Hill property appears
to be small on the plat, but that in fact it was a very large
property that could easily accommodate the Bluffwood house. She
stated Isabel Turner is remembered for human rights, was a great
proponent of HiCkory Hill Park and "went to bat" for it. She felt
if Isabel Turner were here, she would strongly oppose placing the
house in the park.
4
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Weideman asked if the group had talked to the owners of Rose Hill,
with Sayre stating Nancy Seiberling, Kate Frank and Carl Klaus knew
Isabel Turner, and they did not have a specific conclusion. With
respect to the Larson property, he noted access to it might only be
possible through lots platted by Glasgow for development.
Jan Nash stated she was a preservation consultant. She stated with
respect to obtaining funding, she could make an arguable case for
integrity if the house was moved to the proposed site, but not if
it was moved to the Turner property. She stated the Turner
property was so far removed in context, it did not duplicate the
present cottage site, and it was surrounded by urban area. with
respect to the site in North Hickory Hill Park, she stated this was
the first area they looke~ at, but it would be much more
complicated and expensive to move the house to this site, noting a
road would need to be built in order to get to it.
Weideman stated the commission needs to look at a cost/benefit
comparison; the benefits of moving the house to Hickory Hill Park
'and at what cost. She asked the commission to think about what
their policy is with respect to the park, and if this project
challenges it in any way. She polled each commission member to see
what they would like to see Hickory Hill Park be.
pacha agreed with the majority of the people who spoke that want
the park to remain just as it is, but on the other hand he did not
have a problem with the'particular location. He felt it would be
minimally invasive.
Beasley stated the commission needed to look to see if there is any
pOlicy, ordinance or resolution which sheds light on the intended
purpose of what the park can be used for, noting his input might be
moot. Trueblood stated the resolution designating the stormwater
management area as parkland simply stated "for park and recreation
purposes", and based on staff's recollection there is no such
5
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policy or stated restrictions in the Hickory Hill Park file.
Weideman. asked Beasley how he envisioned the park. Beasley stated
the problem is there are a lot of people who have a lot of
different interests. He noted that part of him wants to keep the
area as natural as possible, but the other part says we should
accommodate as many interests as we can in those 190 acres. He
stated the mountain bikers would love to be able to use the trails,
and asked why. we could not take 10 acres for mountain bikers to
use.
Liddell indicated that in looking at the whole continuum of parks
and how they are used, we have city Park which is very human-
consumer oriented and a place where we can meet users' needs; we
also have a series of neighborhood parks which are defined as what
the neighbors see as their needs; and on the other end there is'
Hickory Hill Park, which is a treasure to the community and has a
very different purpose. She felt it was going to be difficult for
the commission to come forth with courage to stand up to groups
that have an interest in getting into Hickory Hill Park. She felt
it is impossible to tell what will happen down the road if the
house is put in Hickory Hill Park; query, will security lights have
to be put in due to vandalism, etc. She noted she realized the
group is operating under a deadline, but felt rushed on the whole
issue. She stated the commission will be making major decisions
that cannot be undone. She felt Hickory Hill Park was meeting
specific needs and we should not be tampering with it.
Brandt stated a decision needs to be made on the facts, noting it
is easier to be against something than for something. He stated it
is the commission's job to accommodate citizens' needs in providing
different outlets for as many different people as possible. He
stated he did not feel placing the house in Hickory Hill Park would
damage the environment or create more traffic. He note~. the only
unknown fact is the financial repercussions to the city. He stated
in terms of policy, he sees Hickory Hill Park as a resource to meet
6
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many needs.
Vanderhoef stated she would like to save the house, and is
. interested in signage at the proposed site stating the area is part
of Hickory Hill Park. She stated the cost factor has a big impact
on her, and felt there are other locations where the house could be
moved to and would like to see the group explore other sites.
Olson stated she envisioned Hickory Hill Park as a preserved,
undeveloped, natural-state area, and noted the proposed site
appeared to be a natural prairie grass area. She stated she would
like to preserve the natural state of Hickory Hill Park as much as
possible.
I
Watson noted listening to the various comments firmed up his
conviction to preserve Hickory Hill Park as a natural area, not a
wilderness; He stated people can have non-intrusive access to the
park. He stated he related to the Bluffwood house at the proposed
site, and felt it would enhance the natural aspect of Hickory Hill
Park by serving an educational purpose. He felt the educational
purpose could be served by leaving the house closed and having
outdoor exhibits. This would help both the cost and preservation,
while at the same time making it less intrusive. He felt placing
the house at this site would not impact the environment. He stated
he did not have a problem with the house being placed at this site
if it can be done in a way that minimizes the cost and impact. He
noted there are two shelters, two access points and trails
throughout the park, and this would be another natural
place/gateway. He felt the house would enhance the enjoyment of
Hickory Hill Park, and would keep people better educated about
nature.
Weideman stated she went thr~ugh the Bluffwood house and viewed the
proposed site. She noted she had an odd feeling while standing at
the proposed site; there was quite a bit of traffic, additional
7
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development up the street, probably additional development to the
north and east, and huge birds in HiCkory Hill Park. She stated
she had a very strong feeling there is a very thin dividing line in
this area between wildlife, and the traffic and many people. She
stated she saw HiCkory Hill Park as a trails park, a park where you
do not do things that may have some affect on the little bit of
wildlife in the middle of a fast growing city. She stated she
supported the effort to save the Bluffwood house, but did not know
if putting it in HiCkory Hill Park was appropriate. She referred
to comments made as to the size of the park, but noted that in the
scheme of things 190 acres is not very much. She stated the best
thing about Hickory Hill Park was its trails and a person's own
exploration of it, noting the park serves a purpose totally
different than the other parks in Iowa City. She felt a policy
needed to be established setting out how Hickory'Hill Park is to be
used.
I
Beasley noted the house was broken into three areas and asked if
the proposal was to move the entire structure. Sayre stated the
proposal is to leave the chimney and part of the breezeway which
were added after the house was built. Beasley asked if it was the
group's plan to renovate the exterior as well as the interior over
a five year period, with Sayre stating yes, in terms of the best
use of the house. They would like to restore the interior with
some 19th century furniShings, and the exterior of the house could
be restored to give a sense of what it was and the interior could
be used for educational purposes. Beasley asked if the group was
committed to renovating both the interior and exterior of the
cottage, with Sayre stating the group has not made any promises to
anybody. He referred to the statement of five years, noting it
takes time to get things done right. He stated the Friends of
Bluffwood want to stay with it after five years, and would continue
to maintain it. He stated they would,.like the Parks Division to
maintain the grounds around the house. Beasley referred to the
costs itemized in the Friends of Bluffwood proposal, asking if
8
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these costs would be paid by funds raised by the group. Sayre
stated they plan to raise the money for the costs listed in their
proposal. He stated he asked staff to compile a list of other
expenses the group is requesting the City to undertake; this list
was discussed at last week's meeting. He noted the parking lot was
removed from the list, and there are other areas where costs could
be pared down. Sayre noted he was hoping the Friends of Historic
Preservation would pay for the moving costs, so the group does not
have to suddenly raise money to move the house. Weideman asked if
he spoke with Steve Vanderwoude, with Sayre indicating the majority
of the people were in favor of the project. Weideman indicated she
received a letter from him stating they were committing financially
to the project, but did not indicate the actual amount. Beasley
asked if the commitment for funding these different costs were
somehow conditioned on the house being moved to a more permanent
location. Sayre stated if the house was moved to a suburban plot
they would not be able to get federal or foundation assistance. He
noted the proposed site, although not perfect, would be similar
enough and closely related to the house's original setting and
would qualify for funding. Beasley asked if funding was
guaranteed, with Sayre stating no. Sayre stated the chances of
raising money with the house being in an appropriate location and
having endorsements of different private and public governmental
and preservationist groups would help in fundraising efforts.
Liddell ?sked if the house was not moved onto public property would
the Historic Preservation Commission continue to maintain it under
the State Historical society. Sayre indicated he thought so,
noting they want to save the house and also want to find an
appropriate use for it. He stated it was significant to recreate
the function of the house, making it a real educational benefit.
Weideman stated it now appeared the group is llQt expecting the city
to commit financially (as previously requested) to anything other
than maintaining the premises around the house, and indicated this
must be clarified. When asked if they would be able to raise the
necessary funding within one year, sayre indicated they expect to
9
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do so.
Pacha asked if the house remained closed would it be necessary to
have a restroom facility, with Trueblood indicating he assumed not.
Sayre stated this is a variable worth considering, adding a
restroom facility could be postponed until there was a demand or
money raised for it. He stated the group is flexible as to whether
the house should be opened, opening it on a request basis, etc.;
these are things that could be worked out. Weideman felt the
commission should not approve the project if the house is not
intended to be open.
Weideman polled each member with respect to the cost of the
proposed project. Watson stated in terms of the department's
budget, he could not support 'eliminating a project that survived
the budget process. He felt all costs related to upkeep and
installation should be covered 100% by the group, and could not
justify putting city funds into the project. He stated the house
would be an asset to the cultural side of the city's portfolio, but
did not see how the a new program could be added when the
department is struggling to maintain what it presently has. He
stated he would like to have more time in making this decision,
possibly storing the house at another site until a final decision
is made. He stated he had reservations as to whether the proposed
site is a good place, or simply convenient. He expressed concern
placing a structure of this size at a narrow neck of the park,
feeling the house required a big open space. Weideman asked Watson
if he felt he could make a decision at next month's meeting;.Watson
stated he would like the group to have a good sense of whether they
need to search for another alternative, and giving them a clear
signal of where the commission stood tonight.
Olson agreed a decision should be made as soon as possible.
Regarding the cost, she agreed with the need to see a cost/benefit
analysis of different scenarios; e.g., house being kept closed vs.
10
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opened. She stated she would like a good projection as to the
. amount of funds the group feels they will be able to raise.
Vanderhoef stated she could not justify spending any public money
right now for this project, noting if a vote was made tonight she
would vote against placing the house in Hickory Hill Park. She
noted she wanted to save the house, and urged the group to keep
looking for a new location as soon as possible.
Brandt stated if there was no cost to the city except for normal
maintenance of the grounds, he would vote for the proposal, adding
there would need to be a written agreement to this effect.
Weideman asked if there was no such agreement would he vote for the
proposal, with Brandt indicating he would not.
Watson expressed concern with maintenance, referring to the log
cabins in city Park which at one time were taken care of by a group
but presently are not being used and have become a maintenance
problem. He stated there would need to be a contingency that an
existing, incorporated organization, would conuni t to endowment
income to help with ongoing maintenance of the house, that they
have an investment in it and are committed to it. This would need
to be made with an incorporated organization that has a history,
and not with an ad hoc group. Brandt stated a written contract and
endowment were an excellent idea, which w~uld protect the citizens
of Iowa City. Weideman stated the organization/group would have to
have some kind of perpetual existence or an agreement would not be
enforceable.
Pacha stated that in looking at the department's budget and
projecting it, the commission could not afford the initial cost of
this proposal, and based on this he would be ready to make a
decision.
Beasley stated he needed more time before m~king a decision because
11
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the public seems to be just becoming aware of the issue, and they
may have a perspective the commission has not heard yet. He noted
looking at the budget, the department is doing everything is can to
just cover existing projects, and with this in mind it would be
difficult to take on another project from a cost point of view.
Weideman asked if he would be comfortable if there was a written
agreement stating the group would pay for all expenses, present and
future, with Beasley stating he would be if it was an enforceable
agreement.
I
Liddell stated if the Bluffwood house would be used as an
educational center in Hickory Hill Park, she could never support it
if the house was not opened and accessible. She stated if it was
not open and accessible, it would be completely inconsistent with
what the department has done trying to make programs and parks
accessible to everyone, noting the department has received national
recognition for its commitment to programs for the disabled. She
noted she worked with disabled students at the University and felt
the estimates on handicapped accessibility were low. She stated
the question again for her was who was going to pay for this
project, and looking at the proposal it appears the city will, at
least in part. She felt it would be a money pit in terms of the
operating budget; a historical preservation society could possibly
support it; and the project should be privatized. She stated it
was a very viable project, a commitment of labor and time, but not
from the commission's and taxpayer's point of view. She felt it
would be in everyone's best interest to encourage the group to look
elsewhere.
Weideman stated she had difficulty with the potential costs, adding
that placing the house in Hickory Hill Park for educational
purposes it would need to be opened. She stated to open the house
and make it accessible would be very expensive, and felt ultimately
the city would be responsible for the house. She stated there are
many upcoming big projects, and would not want to commit city funds
12
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at this time for this project. She stated the commission would
make a recommendation to the city Council, and the city Council
would make the final decision.. Sayre noted the City Council has
deliberated on this issue before when the proposed development was
before them, and at that time the city Council indicated that steps
be taken to preserve the house. He stated it was his impression
that a number of the City Council members are in favor, at least in
principle.
Weideman stated a straw poll could be taken to give the group some
indication as to how the majority of the commission felt. Watson
and Brandt stated they felt this should not be done because, at
last week's meeting the public was told a final decision would not
be made until the April meeting. Sayre stated they were not
expecting the commission to make any kind of decision tonight.
Beasley felt this might be unfair to the group; Liddell added it
would give a forecast to the group if a straw poll was made. Sayre
stated they had a pretty good forecast and would not like to see a
straw poll, feeling it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy'. He
stated there would have been more people in attendance if they
thought some kind of decision would be made tonight, and asked the
commission to make its decision at the April meeting.
Weideman stated she did not have enough information, adding it
would be helpful to hear about other locations for the house.
Sayre stated the group would work on getting further information,
such as a more concrete set of figures on the project and costs to
the city, and obtaining all assurances that the group possibly can.
He stated he did not know if the group would give a contract,
adding the integrity of the group and seriousness of the proposed
plan could vouch for the group.
Trueblood stated he drafted four questions the commission should
consider in its deliberations and all had been discussed ~n some
detail except for whether or not the proposal is in the best
13
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interest of the neighborhood residents and school. He concurred
with the financial aspect, stating city funds should not be
obligated for this project. He added more capital outlay projects
were cut rather than funded, and he could not recommend eliminating
anyone of the budgeted projects. with respect to the access
issue, he stated if the house is opened to the public it would need
to have accessible restroom facilities. He stated if the
commission approves placing the house in Hickory Hill Park, he
feels the house should be opened to the public and completely
accessible. He' further indicated that if the house is merely
placed there, but not opened, any walkway to the house must meet
accessibili'ty requirements. lie noted the future outdoor
maintenance, Le., yardwork, did not concern him, but he was
greatly concerned with the maintenance and programming of the
building.
Beasley asked if there was anything that could be put in the Press-
Citizen regarding this proposed project. Trueblood indicated all
local media received a copy of all agendas. He stated he received
a call from a Press-citizen reporter asking about several items,
including the Bluffwood house, and he suggested they cover
tonight's meeting. Liddell stated she would like to receive
feedback from someone that could speak as to the habitat and how
this project may affect it. Brandt stated he personally did not
think this project would impact the environment that much. Liddell
stated since the commission is in an information gathering mode the
commission should get to the specifics of the project and how it
might impact the park. Jim Walters suggested contacting Carl
Bendorf, an ornithologist, regarding the environmental impact, and
Tom Kent regarding the habitat. Barbara Boyle suggested Dick Baker
who could speak on wildlife.
Trueblood asked what direction next month's meeting should follow,
Le., normal meetingr public hearing. Brandt stated the city
Council will need to make the final decision and a public hearing
14
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could be held at that time. Various members felt they had
sufficient information, and needed time to make a decision. They
did not feel a need for a formal public hearing. Vanderhoef asked
if the commission should invite to next month's meeting a couple of
local experts on the park, its environment and habitat. She felt
if there were answers from the public at next month's meeting, and
the commission could not answer them, these people could. Liddell
stated the commission did not know if this project will impact
significantly on the environment. Watson felt there would be some
impact on the proposed site and areas around it, but that the park
consisted of 190 acres and this was only a small part of it.
Barbara Boyle and Jim Walters stated they would contact people who
are knowledgeable on the environment, wildlife and habitat and ask
them to attend next month's meeting. There was a brief discussion
as to where to hold next month's meeting, anticipating there may be
a large number from the pUblic in attendance. Staff will attempt
to secure a larger site for the meeting. .
I
Moved bv Beaslev. seconded bv Watson. to adiourn. Unanimous. The
meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m.
15
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SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
MINUTES
JANUARY 25, 1993
Members present: Rufine Anciaux, Harold Engen, Mary Geasland,
Bud Gode, Fred Krause, Gerry Lackender, Tom Muller, Patrick Peters,
Mark Thompson
Staff present: June Braverman, Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps, Susan
Rogusky, Nouri Manochehr
Guests present: Anne Burnside-City Attorney; Bev Ranshaw, Ade
Rittenmeyer-Council of Elders; BB Ballantyne, Barbara Hackman,
Robert Norris, Frieda Shannon-SCTV; Robert Welsh, Nutrition
Advisory Board
CALL TO ORDER/INTRODUCTIONS/ MINUTES/PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Geasland called the meeting to order at 3 PM, welcomed and
introduced the guests.
There was one correction to the minutes: The word "Commission"
was omitted in the sentence Minutes approved by Bud Gode,
Senior Center C.om.miss.i.cu1 Secretary.
Minutes were approved as corrected.
Robert Welsh read a letter to the Commission from the Nutrition
Advisory Board formally requesting that the menu for Congregate
Meals be printed in THE POST. (Letter attached.)
After a brief discussion, Gode moved that the Nutrition
Advisory Board request be placed on the Commission's
February agenda. Muller seconded. Motion carried
unanimously.
SCTV REQUEST FOR FUNDING- NOURI
Rogusky explained the history of SCTV. She said after being turned
down by the City Council, that the Commission funded the project
from the Gift Fund. She said in the beginning SCTV was conceived
because of interest from seniors and visualized as being a tool to
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SCC MINUTES-Page 2
use in meeting the Commission's and Center's Five Year Goals of
expanding outreach, improving the image of The Center, and
providing education and volunteer opportunities.
Rogusky pointed out the SCTV does indeed meet these goals. She
said the volunteers at SCTV have high goals and are striving to
produce shows of quality for airing on Cable TV. She said that each
. SCTV volunteer puts in 20-25 hours or more per week in taping
shows, programs, and producing two shows - "Mature Focus" and
"From the Mezzanine". which are shown on Cable channel 29.
Nouri showed part of a video "Mature Focus" which has been entered
in a contest. The winner will recieve $2000. He also explained what
type of camera, etc. is needed to continue producing high quality
programming to be shown on Cable TV.
Geasland referred to the written request and asked Nouri to
prioritize the items requested. SCTV priorities are: 1. a 3 chip
camera with remote lens and focus control and 5" view finder-
$5000; 2. Amiga 2500 computer with toaster, TBC and genlock-
$6000; 3. Shotgun microphone-$400. The total approximately
$11,400.
. After discussion, Muller moved that Gift Fund money be
used to purchase the first items as prioritized above.'
Engen seconded. Motion carried unanimously.
Nouri and Braverman both assured the Commission that they were
constantly seeking other funding sources to meet the Center
television needs.
SENIOR CENTER UPDATE-MEISEL
Meisel explained the present Center policy (formulated by the
Commission) regarding closing the Center for snow and ice. The
policy which is in THE POST monthly during the winter is that if the
schools close for snow 'and ice the Center closes.
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SCC MINUTES-Page 3
She said in the past all agencies have cooperated in this because
they agree that encouraging the most vulnerable segment of the
population to come out in icy/snowy weather is risky. Meisel said
she was bringing this to the Commission because on the Thursay
when the schools were closed, Congregate Meals did not close.
Meisel pointed out that if the maintenance worker had been unable to
get to work, the steps, ramp, and sidewalk would have been
ice/snow coated. She said this was particularly inconsistent as the
Home Delivered Meals drivers did not deliver and SEATS was not
running. Meisel pointed out that Congregate Meals Director may
make the decision for his program. She said when the Center is
closed for snow and ice it is not a holiday for the staff.
There was a short discussion and Gode moved that the Snow/Ice
Policy be placed on the agenda for February and' asked that the
Commission be prepared to discuss and act on it at that time. Engen
seconded. Motion carried, all ayes.
Gode also suggested that Burnside give them an opinion as to the
liability to the City if someone should fall coming to the Center
under the conditions that Meisel described.
COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS
Gode reported that he attended all three meetings in January. He
clarified for the supervisors the misinformation printed in The
Press-Citizen on December 22 which said that the City Council had
turned down the Senior Center request for $130,000 for additional
staff. He pointed out that the request was for $62,000. He also
explained to the Supervisors that contrary to a report give them by a
former Commissioner, the Commission knows what they need money
for. He told them that the money raised by the ICCT fundraiser will
go for 2 handicapped accessible doors.
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SCC MINUTES - PAGE 4
Gode said he was very concerned about a problem he sees with the
Council of Elders after attending their meeting. He said he felt the
group was apathetic about recruiting others to run for the Council
and apathetic about being leaders elected by their peers.
Gode said the Council takes a lot of staff time and he felt it might
be time to evaluate what their purpose is, what their duties are, and
if the number of members on the Council might need to be changed
especially since few Center participants are interested in running
for the office. He said he wondered if some other format might help
in revitalizing the group.
There was a general discussion and questions about the Council of
Elders. Meisel explained how it began and said that it mainly had
evolved into a group responsible for Older Americans Day, the
Holiday Party, and a greeter for large programs, etc. Meisel also
pointed out that the Council itself was going to discuss these issues
at their meeting in February.
I
Geasland suggested that the Commission think about it and wait
until the Council meets and see what they decide.
Geasland asked the Commissioners to decide what meetings they
would attend for the next 3 months. Anciaux said she would go to
the Supervisors and Council of Elders in February. Muller said he
would go to all three meetings in April. Geasland said she would be
going to the City Council on February 23 because that is the budget
hearing. She asked all Commissioners to attend that meeting.
SCC RESPONSIBILITIES -GEASLAND
Geasland explained for the new members that there are certain
duties in additon to the monthly meeting. She said city and county
applicants receive a letter spelling out the responsibilities' /duties
of commission memebers.
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SCC MINUTES-PAGE 5
She said the Commission's main duty as an advisory board for the
City Council is partially fulfilled by the monthly visits to their
meetings. She said to make these visits to the Council more
meaningful, members should check with Meisel to see if there is
specific information or news to inform them about.
She also emphasized that the best way of becoming familiar with
the Center is to spend some time here. She said that the
Commission should also speak with "one voice" on issues on which
the Commission has agreed.
OPEN DISCUSSION
Engen said he had received a note from a Center participant, Milo
Pecina.. Pecina had suggested that the Police should check the
parking lot for violators every hour.
I
Meisel explained that the Police do not give parking violations and
that the lot is checked at ,10:30 or 11 :00 AM each day and at any time
someone reports a violator is in the lot. She said a volunteer, the
maintenance worker, and all staff people have' given tickets to
violators. She explained with the small number of staff members
that is about as much as can be done. She also welcomed anyone who
would like to volunteer to patrol the lot during the busy hours.
The meeting adjourned at 5:05 PM.
Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, Senior Center Secretary
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'1'0: Thc Senior Centol' Commission
From: Thc Johnson County Nutl'ition Committee
Date: JunuoJ'y 25, IDD3
Re: The Senior Center Post
.,
Tile Congregate and HOll1c- Dclivel'ed. Hutl'i lion' Progl'arns for the Eldcrly arc authol'ized
and funded by Tille III of the Older lJ(,el'icnns Act of the United States. Their purpose
ia to provide hot, nutritiolls meals to seniol' citizens. These Pl'ograms have been called
"the best preventive nutrition program available". We come to I'equest your help in
getting information abo~t this program to all of the senior citizens in Johnson County.
Currently, our menus appeal' weekly in the IOl'la City Press Citizen, but not all of the
. .
elderly in Johnson County can afford to subscribe. Conversely, all senior citizens in
the county receive the Senior Center Post. .This is a wonderful service.
We, of the Nutrition Committee, share a common p\lrpose with YOll and the Iowa City -
Johnson County Senior Center, with you as a commiss,ion and with related ol'ganizations
in Pl'omoting' a better quality of life for the senior citizens of our community. The
congregate meal program is, for many, the primary reason thcy come to the Center.
Whilc here, some participate in other activities. It is also true that some who come
,It for other activities, in turn share in the meal program. Truly, we are partners.
Thus we formally request that the Senior Center Commission receive and appl'ove our
requcst that the congregate/home delivered meal menus be printed each month in the
Senior Center Post.
Our staff is willing to assist the newspaper staff in any way necessary to get the word
out to all Sr. Citizens in Johnson County.
We appreciate your co-operation on this matter, since we al'e convinced that it will
help all of us to reach our common goal of better serving the 51'. Citizens of Iowa City
- Johnson County.
I
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MINUTES
SENiOR CENTER COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 22, 1993
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Harold Engen, Mary Geasiand, Fred Krause, Gerry Lackender,
Patrick Peters, Mark Thompson
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
Ruffine Anciaux, Bud Gode, Tom Muller
Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps
GUESTS PRESENT:
Anne Burnside, City Attornay; Frieda Shannon, Myra Van Horne,
Council of Elders; Pat Meade, Board of Supervisors; Robert
Weish, Grace Jochimson, Congregate Meals Nutrition Advisory
Boerd
CALL TO ORDERIINTRODUCTiONSIMINUTESIPUBLlC DISCUSSION
Geasland called the meeting to order at 3:05 p.m., introduced and welcomed the guests.
Geasland had one clarification to the minutes. On page two, paragraph five, a motion made
by Muller: after the word "prioritized' add the word 'above.'
The minutes were approved as corrected.
Thera was no public discussion.
BUDGET - Geasland
Geasland reminded the Commission that the budget hearing before the City Council will take
place on Tuesday, February 23 and urged everyone to be present by 7:30 p.m.
Geasland summarized the brief remarks she would make to the City Council. She said she
realized that all departments . library, Recreation Center, schools, streets - are competing for
money. The question to be asked is what should be cut. Should it be the fastest growing
segment of the population? No, Geesland said. She believes the City should make a
conscious effort to capitalize on Iowa City's already growing reputation as a desirable
retirement community and activeiy promote it. Between 1980 and 1990 the 45.49 year olds -
tha pre-retirement population. increased by 42 % and the senior population is the fastest
growing segment In the community.
Geesland said the increased usege of the Center over the past saverai years, coupled with the
statistics, point out the impossibility of being able to provide the programming and services
w~ich these young seniors will expect end demand.
Meisel said the Planning Department projects, based on the 1990 census, a population
increase to 52,500 with seniors being the fastast growing segment.
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Senior Center Commission
February 22, 1993
Page 2
Peters said thet focusing on the statistical data should carry weight. He said the City should
cut the areas where the population is shrinking, i.e. parks and recreation and Increase to areas
where the population is growing, i.e. the Senior Center.
There was discussion at this point concerning increased usage and demand and being able to
even maintain the status quo in classes, programs, and services with no additional help.
Some expressed concern with being able to maintain the building as usage increases and the
building ages. There was also discussion on the adventages to Iowa City from the "retirement
dollars" which will be spent by this large segment of the population, as well as educating the
public on the true purpose of the Senior Center. a place where education continues, exciting
programs happen, and lives are enriched and not just as a place to play bingo and eat.
COMMISSION REPORTS
Anciaux submitted a written report. The report stated that the Council of Eiders discussed
at greet lengths their own future, organization, and purpose. They did decide to cut their
numbers to 12 instead of 16 and to have ad hoc committees for one-time jobs rather than
have the Council responsible for all the activities they have done in the past. The consensus
was that a smaller group that is really interested would be easier to manage.
Anciaux elso visited the Board of Supervisors and informed them of the decision to buy some
of the equipment requested by SCTV so they can continue the excellent coverage of Senior
Center events, current information and to train more volunteers. She said Bolkcum expressed
interest in this as he is very interested in having the Supervisors' meetings televised.
Geasland said that Muller was scheduled to go to the meetings in April and Thompson said
he would go to the meetings in March.
SENIOR CENTER UPDATE - Melsei
Meisel explained the monthly data for the benefit of the new Commissioners.
Meisel also explelned briefly the Information which the Commission had received about
SCTV's history, present focus, hopes for the future and the "partnership" with City TV. She
also discussed the present negotiations for refranchising with TCI in which the City is
presently involved.
Melsei said because SCTV is an important outreach tool and because the senior population
is growing, It is Important that SCTV be considered and Included when the money from the
cable company for the local access channels Is negotiated. She pointed out that future goals
may even Include a paid staff person and a channel for SCTV on which the SCTV volunteers
serve the needs of older edults In the community as the library does for children.
She asked the Commission to support their efforts to be included in this refranchising
negotiation as it would probably not take place again for another ten years.
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Senior Center Commission
February 22, 1993
Page 3
Engen moved that the Commission support the staff and SCTV In their endeavor to be
Included In the City's RFP In whatever form Is possible, whether It Is for equipment, staff
support, or whatever Is worked out. Peters seconded. Motion carried unanimously.
CONGREGATE MEALS DISCUSSION - Geaslend
~:
Geasland,opaned the discussion by pointing out that several things should be considered
regarding Congregate Meals' request to heve their menu printed in THE POST. She said this
necessitates a policy change for the paper, forces a need to look at all the service providers
in the building, the impact on the steff and volunteers, and space in the paper. Engen pointed
out that the Council of Elder meeting minutes for March, which all Commission members
should have received, recommended that the menus be published in the Involvement magazine
or that if published in THE POST, the Congregate Meals pay all expense of printing the flyer
and the manpower to insert the flyer Into THE POST monthly.
She said the idea of Congregate Meals printing copies of their menu and having volunteers
insert it in the peper was the simplest answer. Geasland read a letter to the Commission from
Tom Miskimen, Director, Heritage Area Agency on Aging, requesting that the Commission
support the Nutrition Board's request and approve printing the menus in THE POST.
There wes a general discussion during which Engen pointed out that the Congregate Meals
menu contained very few meals that he could eat as a recovering heart surgery patient, that
they were filled with too much fat and red meat. The discussion also included other options,
with emphasis on The Involvement which goes to the same list of people that THE POST
does.
I
Welsh said they use other options but the meal program was et the Center, and that
publishing their menu in THE POST was the most satisfactory option.
At the request of the Nutrition Board, Krause moved that the menu be published In THE POST
for four months on a trial basis. Peters seconded. Motion carried 4-2. Voting In favor:
Thompson, Kreuae, Peters, Lackender. Voting against: Geaslend, Engen.
This decision was me de contrery to the recommendations of both the staff and the Council
of Eiders. Geasland instructed the staff to keep track of the additional time and money spent
on this addition to THE POST.
Snow Closure:
Burnside's legal opinion is that the Senior Center Commission is not justified in demanding
that Congregate Meals comply with bad weather closing policy under the present contract
between the City and Congregate Meals.
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Senior Center Commission
February 22, 1993
pege 4
She pointed out that the lease renews annually each July 1. She said one approach might
require Congregate Meals to comply with the Center's existing policy. Another approach
might require Congregate Meals to take over snow and ice removal duties on days the Center
is closed.
Tha meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, Senior Center Secretary.
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MINUTES
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS
JANUARY 27, 1993 - 6:30 P.M.
SENIOR CITIZEN'S CENTER CLASSROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Grace Cooper, Mary Ann Dennis, Sue Feeney,
Rusty Martin, Linda Murray, Robin Paetzold,
Andy Penziner, Bruno pigott, Keith RUff,
Maris Snider
MEJ.IBERS ABSENT:
Lisa Oxley
STAFF PRESENT:
Pam Barnes, Liz HUdson, Kerstin Krippner, Marci
Lindsay, Marianne Milkman, Marge Penney., Steven
Schornhorst
OTHER PRESENT:
Bob Hardy (CABLE TV)
CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS:
Chairperson Dennis called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.
Introductions were made.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 28. 1992 MINUTES:
Martin moved to approve the minutes of October 28, 1992 meeting.
Murray seconded. Pigott stated his name was incorrectly spelled in
the minutes and would like the correction made. Pigott moved to
approve the minutes of the October 28, 1992 meeting as adopted.
Murray seconded. Motion carried on a 8-0 vote.
PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION:
Dennis stated she received a legal oplnlon from Anne Burnside,
First Assistant city Attorney, regarding a conflict of interest
between serving on CCN and her role of Executive Director of the
Greater Iowa city Housing Fellowship. Dennis stated Burnside's
opinion was that Dennis should abstain from participating in
matters before CCN which relate to GICHF's application for funds or
other benefits and that her abstention should be a matter of public
record. Dennis stated she would like to submit a copy of the legal
opinion into the minutes of this January 27, 1993 meeting.
(d\lNl~
Paetzold stated Sh~d on the Domestic Violence Intervention
Board, which also's CDBG funds. Martin asked how Paetz old
and Dennis would feel about answering questions from city Council
about CDBG funds for the Housing Fellowship and DVIP. Dennis
stated she would abstain during the discussion process. Murray
stated that the members should announce their situations the night
of the CDBG funds presentations. Hartin moved that the committee
follow the guidelines regarding the possible conflict of interest
as recommended in the legal opinion and enter the letter from
Burnside into January 27, 1993 minutes. Hurray seconded. Motion
carried on a 10-0 vote.
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COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS
JANUARY 27, 1993
PAGE 2
CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING COMMISSION UPDATES
Dennis stated that Murray was reappointed to CCN. Paetzold stated
that the Housing commission discussed improvement of section 8
reporting.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
pigott made a motion to nominate Dennis for chair. cooper
seconded. Ther were no other nominati:ons. Mation carried on a 10-
o vote. Paetzold made a motion to nominate Murray as vice-chair.
Martin seconded. There were no other nominations. Motion.carried
on a 10-0 vote,
CCN EDUCATION SUBCOMMITTEE PRESENTATION-HOUSING REHABILITATION
PROGRAM:
Barnes and Schornhorst gave a presentation on the city's Housing
Rehab Program to.the committee. They described th programs for low
income homeowners and for rehabilitation of rental units with
affordable rents and low income tenants. Most of the rehab funds
come through HUD.
Barnes answered a question by Penziner"stating that the purpose of
providing landlords with rehab funding is to keep rents affordable.
Schornhorst stated that the Housing Rehab Program has been very
pleased with landlords they have provided for. He said the
landlords do a good job of keeping the rents at fair market value
after the rehab is completed.
Barnes stated that some rental rehab funds come from the Iowa
Finance Authority (IFA). She said that funds from IFA need to be,
repal.d, so the funds are provided to landlords and homeowners
through a 10-year 5% interest loan.
DISCUSSION OF 1993 CDBG ALLOCATION PROCESS AND SCHEDULE:
Dennis commented that the committee should review the CDBG
applications before the next meeting to have questions ready for
applicants. Martin had a question about asking for further
information from applicants. Murray stated that presenters should
not speak unless spoken to at the Committee's March 16 discussion
unless there are questions. Murray asked if there would be a time
limit on presentations. Dennis replied that there is a 10 minute
presentation period and 5 minute question period. Milkman stated
that when applications are handed in, the presenters will sign up
for a time to make their presentations.
Dennis reviewed the schedule with the committee. Martin motioned
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COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS
JANUARY 27, 1993
PAGE 3
to approve meeting schedule, Bruno Seconded. Motion carried on a
10-0 vote. Martin motioned to have all sessions of COBG program
Funding presentations videotaped. Murray seconded, Milkman asked
if it was not possible to videotape all the sessions, which ones do
they prefer. Penziner replied that only the proposal presentations
and the ranking meeting should be taped. Penziner commented that
the purpose for videotaping is to have all sessions on tape.
Motion carried on a 10-0 vote.
DISCUSSION OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN PREPARATION.
Milkman stated that staff will prepare a rough draft of the plan
and the committee should form a subcommittee to review the plan.
pigott, Paetzold, Ruff, and Penziner volunteered to be on the
subcommittee.
DISCUSSION OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK SCHEDULE.
Dennis notified the 'committee that CD Week was April 5-11, 1993.
Feeney, Dennis, Murray, and Martin will meet as a subcommittee for
a proposal for CD Week.
MONITORING REPORTS FOR 1992 CDBG PROJECTS.
Feeney reported on Elderly Services Agency's Small Repair Program.
She stated that Elderly services received $16,000 to do home
repairs and minor modifications for handicapped and elderly persons
living in Iowa city. She said this was done to extend independent
living at home to avoid premature placement into nursing homes.
She said Elderly Services reported that 33 households had already
received assistance as of December 8, 1992.
Penziner reported on LIFE Skills Housing Support Program. Penziner
stated that LIFE Skills spent July and part of August finalizing'
the Housing Curriculum and notifying local agencies and the public
regarding the project. He said LIFE Skills helps Low-income
renters access and maintain housing.
Dennis reported on Aid to Agencies operational funds awarded to
Elderly Services Agency and united Action for Youth.
Dennis also reported on the joint United Way/Iowa city/Johnson
county hearings for Human Service Agency fund~ng.
Martin moved to adjourn the meeting. pigott seconded. Motion
carried on 10-0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Liz Hudson
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January 12, 1993
/
Marianne Milkman
Community Development Coordinator
Department of Planning and Community Development
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
-'1:&.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
Legal Opinion Request: Conflict of Interest
Dear Marianne:
You have requested a legal opinion ,as to whether MaryAnn Dennis' position on the Committee
for Community Needs (CCN) Is In conflict with her role as Executive Director of the Greater Iowa
City Housing Fellowship (GICHF).
CCN Is a municipal administrative agency which advises the City Council regarding needs of the
community. For example, the committee makes recommendations to the Council about
allocation of CDBG funds. GICHF Is a non'profit local organization which deals with Issues of
housing Iowa Cltians. GICHF has received CDBG funds In the ~ast and may seek to do so again
In the future.
Section 362.5, Code of Iowa, states "a city officer or employee shall not have an interest, direct
or Indirect, In any contract or job of work or material or the profits thereof or services to be
furnished or performed for the officer's or employee's city". An "officer" Is a natural person
elected or appointed to a fixed term and exercising some portion of the power of a city, Section
362,2(8).
Dennis Is not an employee or an officer of the City, Although she is chair of CNN, she does not
"exercise some portion of the power of (the) city", because the Commission serves only to make
recommendations to the City Council, The Interest which she has In seeing GICHF receive
CDBG funds, at the recommendation of CCN, Is not pecuniary. Dennis has no person financial
Interest In GICHF. Therefore, the conflict which may exist when she hears GICHF applications
from her seat on CCN Is of the type Identified by the Court In Wilson v, Iowa CIIv, 165 N,W,2d
613,823 (Iowa 1969): 'When one Is committed to give loyalty and dedication of effort to both (a)
public office and (a) private employer, when the Interests of those two may conflict, one Is faced
with pressures and choices to which no public servant should be unnecessarily exposed."
Wilson at 623, In the scenario you have presented, Dennis Is not, strlctiy speaking, caught
between the Interests of her city and her empioyer, However, there may be Instances where her
loyalty to GICHF or CCN would color her role In making recommendations to the Council. Just
as Important, there may be Instances In which It appears that her decision or recommendation
has been colored by her loyalties. Wllson teaches that such appearances must be avoided as
assiduously as actual conflicts,
For these reasons, I conclude that while no conflict of interest prohibited by Section 362,5 may ,
CIVIC CE~rER '~I" E, WASIII~OTO~ Sf
IOWA ClfY IOW,\ 1::~O.IUI\
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Marianne Milkman
January 12, 1993
Page Two
exist, Dennis should abstain from participating In. matters before CCN which relate to GICHF
application for funds or other benefits. Her abstention should be a matter of public record.
Please feel free to call me If you have further questions about this matter.
Yours truly,
cc: Marsha Weg Bormann, Assistant City Attorney
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
JANUARY 13, 1993 - 6:00 P.M.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Betty Kelly, Kay irelan, Sue Licht, Jay Semei, Joyce Barrett,
Doug Russell
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Kevin Hanick
STAFF PRESENT:
Bob Miklo
VISITORS:
Jan Nash
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson 'Russell called the meeting to order at 6: 15 p.m.
REVIEW OF NATIONAL REGISTER NOMiNATION - MOFFIT COTTAGES:
Miklo reviewed the Natlonai Register preservation information. Nash highlighted the history
of Moffit's work in Iowa City.
Licht moved to authorize the Chairperson to sign approvai of the nomination of the Moffit
Cotteges to National Register of Historic Places and to recommend that the Mayor sign his
approval also. Kelly seconded. The motion carried 6-0.
DISCUSSION OF SUMMIT PLACE PLAQUE:
Semei asked If the Commissioners had any recommendations regarding the wording of the
Summit Place plaque. Miklo said the language Semel presented at the last meeting was good;
perhaps addresses of other historic homes in the area could be included on the plaque. Barrett
said that may not be a good use of the plaque because as times change, the significance of
certain areas also changes.
REVIEW OF HOUSING REHABILITATION PROPOSALS:
Mlklo said the first housing rehabilitation proposal is for 602 Clark Street. He said the most
substantial change is replacement of the rear porch. Licht said it seems as if the rehabilitation
work won't be seen from the street. Licht said according to the plans submitted, there is no
drainage provided for tha porch. Miklo said the floor may ba slanted and that may not show
up on tha plans. Licht said even if the floor is slanted, there is no drain hole. Miklo said the
drain hole may not be on tha plan either. Licht said the plans for the new porch make it look
as If it's from tha 1970s. She said it is not consistent with tha historic character of the
housa. Kelly said the porch was supposedly added in 1910.
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Historic Preservation Commission
January 13, 1993
Pflge 2
Miklo suggested the Commission comment on drainage for the porch and other concerns,
Russell said the application is very incomplete and that it is difiicult to assess what is being
proposed. Licht said there is not enough information regarding the relationship between the
porch and the rest of the house.
Miklo said the Commission should not approve the proposal if they do not feel comfortable
with it, but suggested their concerns be answered prior to a vote on the issue. Russell asked
Licht to meet with Barnes to get answers to the Commissioner's Questions. Miklo said the
Commission could vote to forward this application to the State Historical Society, pending
Licht's approval of more detailed plans.
Semel moved to forward this application to ihe State, provided the applicant solves the
concerns before the application Is forwarded. Irelan seconded. The motion carried 6.0.
Miklo said the next housing rehabilitation proposal is for 613 Ronalds Street. Barrett said the
skylight should be flat, as opposed to bubbled. Kelly asked what type of storm doors would
be replacing the aluminum doors currently there.
Miklo said this application could be forwarded to the state with the recommendation that the
skylight be replaced with one of a similar profile. Irelan asked if the motion could included
reference to the storm doors. Licht said the doors can always be removed without altering
the basic building. Irelan said if the house is being improved, the homeowner may as well do
with appropriate wood frame doors.
Licht moved to send this application to the state with the recommendation that a skylight be
the same In profile as the existing skylight. Barrett seconded, and added the recommendation
that wood be used for the replacement storm doors. Motion carried 6.0.
DISCUSSION OF 1993 HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS:
Kelly submitted a list of prospective jurors. Licht said Jack Porter may be a good juror; he's
a member of the Des Moines city council, active in historic preservation, and a good speaker.
She said Robert Dietrich from Southwestern Community College in Creston may also be a
good juror. Barrett suggested Gottfried and Jennings from Iowa State University may be good
jurors, as well. It was decided Kelly would' work with the following list to find three jurors:
Crombie Taylor, Rob Dietrich, Jack Porter, Gottfried, Jennings, and Bob Yapp. Russell
suggested Peggy Whitworth be added to that list as well.
Kelly said the awards ceremony will be held at the County Courthouse on May 12, 1993. She
said the reception will begin at 4:45 with the awards presented at 5: 15.
Semel excuse~ himself at 7: 11 p.m.
Kelly asked which categories should be used for judging. Russell suggested the jurors decide
on Residential Rehabilitation, Commercial Rehabilitation, and Institutional Rehabilitation. He
said the Commission should choose the winners in the categories of Maintenance of Historical
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Historic Preservation Commission
January 13, 1993
Page 3
Property and Painting of Historical Property. He said the Commission also decides on the
Margaret Nowysz Award and reminded the Commissioners to be thinking about that.
Kelly said the Commission also needs to be thinking about the invitation list. Miklo suggested
Friends of Historic Preservation be consulted. Russell said the corporate sponsor of this year's
awards will be First National Bank. He suggested the same caterer as last year be hired again
this year.
CONSIDERATION OF DECEMBER 9. 1992. MINUTES:
Russell said on page two "was to be forwarded" should be changed to "were to be
forwarded." He said the motion to approve the minutes on page three should be to approve
the minutes as amended. Russell asked that another sentence be added before paragraph two
on page four that reads "Russell met with Mercy Hospital representatives on December 9,
1992."
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Licht suggested on page six, third paragraph, the reference to former Commission member
Sierk be deleted. Licht said on page five, Hanick, not Licht, said the O'Reilly Hotel project
was to be privately funded. She said on page five that discussion regarding the chimney swift
be changed to read "one proposal was to move the chimney swift tower to Hickory Hill Park."
Irelan said on page six, during the discussion of the Montessori school, it should be changed
to reflect that the neighborhood felt that the presence of the school was not the main
problem, but thet the growth of the school is the main problem.
Kelly moved to approve the minutes as amended. Irelan seconded. Motion carried.
COMMISSION INFORMA TION/DISCUSSION:
Russell said now that the work with the Historic Preservation Plan is complete, the
Commission should spend sometime working on a work program for 1993, and suggested a
two to three hour work session on a Saturday. He said he has some ideas, such as a
municipal designation for the Brown Street neighborhood, Other Commissioners agreed.
Russell seid the Commission should do something special for Marlys Svendsen. Miklo said
a dinner or some other gathering could be held at his house in her honor.
Russell said the County Historic Society is thinking about building a new museum to house
artifacts. He said he and Barrett will attend a January 21 meeting on the matter.
Russell said the Plum Grove Advisory Committee will meet February 3 at 1 :00 p.m.
Russell said a Historic Resource Development Program meeting will be held on February 20.
He said the meeting will deal with how to write a grant proposal and the Commission may
wish to have a representative present to get back into the grant application loop.
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Historic Preservation Commission
January 13, 1993
Page 4
Miklo said Licht's and Irelan's terms on the Commission will expire in March. Irelan said she
already submitted an application for reappointment.
Russell said the Commission's $4.000 budget for surveys and grant matching money was
removed from the FY94 budget. He said the Commission could send a memo to the City
Council asking thet the amount be put back in the budget. Licht said the Commission has
provided a good return on that money.
Russell moved to send a memo. to the City Council requesting that $4.000 for historic
preservation projects be put back In the budget. Barrett seconded. Motion carried.
Russell said Ron Johnson is no longer interested in moving Bluffwood. He said the
Commission may want to write a letter to Bill Happel, asking if his offer of $5,000 to move
Bluffwood is still on the table. Licht said a committee is working on getting permission from
Parks and Rec to move Bluffwood to Hickory Hill Park.
ADJOURNMENT:
,Meeting adjourl)ed at 8:15 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Kati Kennedy Brown.
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MARCH 18, 1993.7:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
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MEMBERS PRESENT:
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
Bovbjerg, Cook, Cooper, Dierks, Scott, Starr
Gibson
Denney, Mlkio, Moen, Rockwell, Schreiber
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Scott called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
1. Recommend approval by a 5-1 vote of SUB 93.0001, the final plat of Southwest Estates,
Part Five, a 14-lot, 5.3 acre residential subdivision located on Phoenix Drive extended,
subject to no building permits being issued until the Westside Sewer upgrade Is
completed.
2. Recommend approval by a 5-1 vote of SUB' 93.0002, the preliminary plat of Scott
Boulevard East, Part Two, a 9.23 acre, 26.lot residential subdivision located east of Scott
Boulevard and north of Court Street subject to 1) no access to Court Street by lots 59, 43,
42, 41, and 40 and 2) approval of stormwater calculations by the Public Works
Department.
3. Recommend approval by a 6.0 vote of an 18 month extension, until November 3, 1994,
of the preliminary plat of Hunters Run, Parts Four-Nine.
4. Recommend approval by a 6-0 vote of SUB 93-0003, the final plat of Hunters Run, Part
Nine, a 5.7 acre, 16.lot residential subdivision located on Duck Creek Drive extended and
Pheasant Valley Street extended subject to 1) no building permits being Issued until the
Westslde Sewer upgrade Is completed and 2) final approval of construction plans by the
Public Works Department and final approval of legal papers by the City Attorney's Office.
5. Recommend approval by a 6-0 vote of ANN 93.0001 , a request to annex an approximate
5.59 acre tract of land located north of American Legion Road at the terminus of Owl
Song Lane SE.
6. Recommend approval by a 6.0 vote of REZ 93.0003, a request to rezone an approximate
5.59 acre tract of land located north of American Legion Road at the north terminus of
Owl Song Lane SE from County RS, Suburban Residential, to RS-5, Low Density Single-
Family Residential with the clear understanding that all costs associated with providing
Infrastructure for the development of the subject tract will be paid for by the developer,
and subject to I} City Development Board approval of the annexation of the original 240
acre Windsor Ridge tract, 2) City D~velopment Board approval of the requested 5.59 acre
annexation, and 3) the developer dedicating .127 acre of open space In addition to and .
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 18, 1993
Page 2
incorporated as part of the 6.9 acres of open space required of the original 240 acre
Windsor Ridge tract; the location of the open space shall be negotiated with the City of
Iowa City.
7. Recommend to the City Council on a 6.0 vote that It forward a comment to the Johnson
County Board of Supervisors finding that CZ-9305, the request to rezone an approximately
3.9 acre tract of land from AI, Rural, to RS, Suburban Residential, Is Inconsistent with the
mutuaily agreed upon Fringe Area Agreement for Area 1 and should be denied.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
DEVELOPMENT ITEMS:
1. SUB 93-0001. Pubilc discussion of an application submitted by Seville Corporation for
final plat approval of Southwest Estates, Part Five, a 14-lot, 5.3 acre residential
subdivision located on Phoenix Drive extended. (4S.day limitation period: March 29,
1993.)
Denney noted the 45.day limitation period is March 29, 1993 so action on this appilcatlon
was needed at this meeting,
Public discussion opened at 7:37 p.m.
Kandie Briscoe, representing Seville Corporation, requested the Commission forward a
recommendation to Council on this application. She said Seville Corporation would be
agreeable to a postponement on the decision for a reasonable amount of time at the
Council level.
Scott asked if the right of reimbursement In the original contract with the City was
transferred to the Individual lot owners who purchased and built on the lots. Briscoe
replied the contract stipulates that the sewer upgrade fee would be returned to the lot
owners, bulthe reimbursable expenses for overwlde paving, the over-sized sewer line,
and the sewer lines over third party property would be returned to th~ developer.
In response to a question from Scott, Briscoe explained the sewer upgrade fees are being
paid by the lot owners when they obtain building permits. Scott asked if Individual lot
owners paid that fee with the expectation of having it refunded In the future. Briscoe
replied the agreement states that If there were any money returned In the future, it would
go to the Individual lot owners.
Scott asked the number of lots owned by Seville Corporation In the subdivision subject to
the sewer fee (Phases Two, Three and Four of Southwest Estates). Briscoe replied
approximately ten lots, which are being assessed a $340 sewer upgrade fee per lot.
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 18, 1993
Page 3
Scott asked staff what outstanding deficiencies and discrepancies remain on this
application; Denney replied none other than the inability of the Public Works Department
to sign the construction plans due to the lack of sanitary sewer capacity.
Scott asked if an amendment would be required to the conditional zoning agreement
between the City and Seville Corporation in order for the Commission to condition
approval of the final plat upon the 14 lots paying their pro rata share for the sewer
upgrade, as opposed to that fee being reimbursed to the individual lot owners when the
14 lots are sold. Denney said he believes that would require revision to the current
conditional zoning agreement because It Is contrary to the conditional zoning agreement.
He said Seville Corporation has Indicated they are not interested In modifying the current
agreement.
Larry Schnlltler. MMS Consultants, said It Is his understanding that Seville Corporation Is
to be reimbursed for the sewer lines across the Kennedy property and possibly portions
of the water main in the subdivision and the overwidth street Improvements, as well as for
the portion of the sewer upgrade fees that have been paid In excess of their pro rata
share.
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Denney said a per lot sewer upgrade fee was assessed based on an assumed cost of the
sewer upgrade of $65,000 and the proposed number of lots at the time the conditional
zoning agreement was signed; since that time, the scope of the project to upgrade the
Westslde Sewer has become more encompassing, requiring more of the line to be
upgraded at an current estimated cost of $220,000.
In response to a question from Scott, Denney saId $15,250 Is the amount of reimbursable
funds that has been paid by Individuals as lots were developed. Dierks said her
understanding was that the extra costs charged were because the development was out-
of-sequence. Scott said the conditional zoning agreement with Seville Corporation was
contrary 10 the Commission's Intent In recommending approval of the Southwest Estates
conditional rezoning. Bovbjerg said there a lot of unanswered questioned on which costs
are reimbursable.
Moen said it Is staff's understanding that the sewer upgrade fees are to be reimbursed to
the property owners; the Commission's only option Is to attempt to encourage the
developer to renegotiate the conditions in the zoning agreement, which the developer Is
not receptive to at this time. She said Seville Corporation has requested the Commission
make a recommendation to Council.
Scott noted the Commission does not know whether the motion for rezoning that was
passed by City Council read that all out-of.sequence costs would be paid for by the
developer. In response to a question from Dierks, Moen said it Is up to the applicant to
decide 11 they want this application considered further by the Planning and Zoning
Commission. She noted two other applications have been forwarded to the Council which
are dependent upon upgrade of the Wests ide Trunk Sewer; in both Instances, the Council
has deferred consideration of those applications until May 11, following their deliberations
on the capital Improvements program. Scott explained 11 the Commission voles for
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 18, 1993
Page 4
deferral until April 1 without a waiver from the applicant, the application goes on to Council
without a recommendation from the Commission.
Public discussion closed at 7:55 p.m.
Cook moved to approve SUB 93-0001 for final plat approval of Southwest Estates,
Part Five, a 14-lot, 5.3 acre residential subdivision located on Phoenix Drive
extended subject to no building permits being Issued until the Westslde Sewer
upgrade Is completed. Cooper seconded.
Miklo noted that the other case where the Commission used that condition was a
rezoning, whereas this application is for plat approval; he suggested the Commission
consider conditioning upon construction drawings being approved by the Pubilc Works
Department. He said normally a final piat approval Is not placed on the Council's agenda
until the construction drawings are approved but, In this case, the Commission may wish
to have Council consider the request before those plans have been approved; the
condition he suggested would require the plans to be approved prior to the plat being filed
with the City.
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Cook said the Commission's understanding of the original zoning agreement was that the
developer had the responsibility to pay for out-of-sequence costs and he Is confused as
to why that condition was not translated into the legal agreement. He said the
Commission Is now In a position where the City Is very stressed and stretched for capital
improvements budgets and the Commission would like to encourage the developer to
consider renegotiating the original agreement; it may be that without additional help from
developers, the City Is not in as good a position to extend some of the needed capital
Improvements.
Denney noted, as a point of clarification, the sewer upgrade fees and reimbursement were
Included in the conditional zoning agreement and legal papers. Cook said that leads him
to beileve the City made a mistake when conditioning the zoning agreement.
Dierks said she has some real concerns regarding the conditional zoning agreement for
this property and until they are clarified she would not feel comfortable voting in favor of
this request and sending It on to Council. ,
Scott said when the language of approval by the Council differs from the Intent of the
Commission, there Is a process whereby the Council and Commission meet; since that
never occurred, he can come to two conclusions: either the motion the Council approved
Included language similar 10 the Commission's or the point was not made of the difference
between the final agreement as drafted by the legal department and the Commission's
Intent with the motion. He said he is not happy with the position the Commission finds
Itsellln; the Commission has made recommendations consistent with out.of-sequence
development and In all other Instances of subsequent action the costs of out.of.sequence
development were borne by the developer.
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 18, 1993
Page 5
Cook said the Commission earlier raised a question about pro rating the cost of the sewer
over all the developable land In that watershed and noted a good share of that land Is
owned by the County Home; If the City pro rates the cost over the entire area, and If the
County Home land never develops, the City will be responsible for the majority of the
costs of the sewer upgrade. He said he Is concerned about Including the County Home
land In the pro rata share calculations because he feels it would be unfair to the City.
The motion carried on a 5.1 vote with Dierks votina in the neaatlve.
2. SUB 93-0002. Public discussion of an appllcallon submitted by Plum Grove Acres, Inc.
for preliminary plat approval of Scott Boulevard East, Part Two, a 9.23 acre, 26.lot
residential subdivision located east of Scott Boulevard and north of Court Street. (45.day
limitation period: April 12, 1993.)
Denney said staffs concerns Include the locallon of the proposed Scott Park Drive and
its proximity to Scott Boulevard, which could result In a problem where traflic stacking at
Scott Boulevard and Court Street would block access to the proposed Scott Park Drive;
staff feels the Intersection should be moved to the east. He said the proposed
configuration requires that lots 40, 41, and 42 have direct access onto Court Slreet, which
Is a secondary arterial; the Comprehensive Plan states that drive access on secondary
arterials be limited to large developments. He noted that Public Works Department has
not yet determined whether the proposed off-site stormwater detention Is adequate but It
appears It will be adequate; all other deficiencies and discrepancies with the plat have
been addressed.
Public discussion opened at 8:06 p.m.
\
Bruce GlasQow, said Plum Grove Acres, Inc. donated about five acres of ground to be
used for Scott Boulevard to the City in exchange for assurance from the City that no
further stormwater retention would be needed In this subdivision, He expressed concerns
about the City's engineering staff at $24 per hour trying to determine If this subdivision has
adequate stormwater capacity, when a political decision was made that additional capacity
was not needed. He said he does not want to get billed for the staff's Inability to talk to
the City Attorney.
Public discussion closed at 8:12 p.m.
Cooper moved to approve SUB 93-0002 for preliminary plat approval of Scoll
Boulevard East, Part Two, a 9.23 acre, 26-lot residential subdivision located east of
Scoll Boulevard and north of Court Street subject to 1) no access to Court Slreet
by lots 59, 43, 42, 41, and 40 and 2) approval of stormwater calculations by the
Public Works Department. BovbJerg seconded.
Denney noted the motion leaves three lots without access; he said If that is the
Commission's Intent, he recommends deferral. Dierks asked if the developer had the
legal rlghlto put in an alley; Denney replied the pial would need to be redrawn,
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March 18, 1993
Page 6
Scott said in regards to staff's recommendation that Scott Park Drive be reconflgured so
that It did not access onto Court Street as close to the intersection of Court Street and
Scott Boulevard, it was pointed out at the Informal meeting on March 15 that from
centerline of Scott Park Drive to centerline of Scott Boulevard Is 208 feet and from Court
Street to the proposed extension of Washington Street east of Court Street Is
approximately 1,200 feet. He said traffic control measures could be utilized to channel and
funnel the traffic from Scott Park Drive out onto Court Street.
Cook noted the Commission was also concerned that moving Scott Park Drive farther to
the east would result In additional problems with the sight lines and traffic safety. He said
the Commission also likes the fact that the proposed street lines up with Scott Park Drive
to the south; the Commission did not want to Introduce a situation where three streets
Intersect onto Court Street with none of them opposing each other. He added the current
configuration of Scott Park Drive also sets up a demarcation line between the two different
zonings.
In regard to Glasgow's comments, Cook noted the City paid to pave and Improve Scott
Boulevard and reminded Glasgow and other developers that without streets, their land
would not be worth nearly as much as it is, so it was probably a fair trade between the
City and the developer.
BovbJerg said she has real concerns with lots 40, 41, and 42 having access onto Court
Street, which could be a real problem especially because of the lots' proximity to Scott
Boulevard. Scott said he feels It Is more important for the Commission to restrict access
onto Court Street that close to the Scott Park Drive and Court Street intersection than to
reconflgure the proposed Scott Park Boulevard. He said he would not vote In favor of a
plat that allowed access for lots 40, 41! and 42 onto Court Street. Cook agreed.
Dierks noted the Commission also discussed the possibility of a sidewalk cutting through
the subdivision next to lot 63 at the March 15 informal meeting and it was determined it
would be more of a hazard than a help, because it would bring kids from the Interior
subdivision right onto a four-lane busy road, especially if there Is a commercial area on
the other side of Scott Boulevard.
The moUon carried on a 5.1 vote with Cooper voUna In the neaaUve.
Moen asked if the Commission would like to see the revised plat if the developer chooses
to amend it. Scott replied affirmatively.
3. SUB 93-0003. Public discussion of an application submitted by Hunters Run Development
Company for final plat approval of Hunters Run, Part Nine, a 5.7 acre, 16-lot residential
subdivision located on Duck Creek Drive extended and Pheasant Valley Street extended.
(45.day limitation period: April 12, 1993.)
Miklo said with the exception of legal papers and construcllon plans, the plat Is in order
for approval; however, the City does not currently have sewer capacity to serve this
development so the Public Works Department cannot sign off on the construction
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March 18, 1993
Page 7
drawings. He said staff recommends approval be subject to construcUon plans and legal
papers being approved; such a condition would require the sewer Issue to be resolved
before the plat could be approved by Council. Scott noted the explraUon date for the
preliminary plat also needs to be extended.
Public discussion opened at 8:25 p.m.
There was none.
Public discussion closed at B:25 p.m.
BovbJerg moved to extend lor 18 months, to November 3, 1994, the preliminary plat
of Hunters Run, Parts Four.Nlne. Dierks seconded. The motion carried on a 6.0
vote.
Cook moved to approve SUB 93-0003 lor final plat approval of Hunters Run, Part
NIne, a 5.7 acre, 16-iot residential subdivisIon located on Duck Creek Drive extended
and Pheasant Valley Street extended subject to 1) no building permits Issued unliJ
the Wests Ide Sewer upgrade /s completed and 2) final approval of construction
plans by the Public Works Department and final approval of legal papers by the City
Attorney's Off/ceo Dierks seconded.
Scott said the condition regarding building permits has been consistent language with all
approvals of plattlngs and rezonlngs In this area; until the sewer line Is upgraded, the
Commission feels Council should be made aware that the Issue of the upgrade of the
sewer line Is paramount to any further development in this area.
I The motion carried on a 6-0 vote.
4. REZ92.0017. SUB92.0028. Public discussion of an application submitted by James
Anderson to rezone a 55.14 acre tract from RS.5 to OPDH-5, and for preliminary
plaVOPDH plan approval of Village Green South, Parts Three-Eight, a 55.14 acre, 174-lot
residential subdivision located west of Scott Boulevard and north of the Iowa Interstate
Railway. (45-day limitation period; April 9, 1993.)
Rockwell explained that because this Is zoned RS'5, in order to have zero lot line dwelling
units, the developer needs to receive OPDH.5 rezoning and OPDH Plan approval. She
said staff feel the submitted plan does not me,et the intent of the OPDH zone, to provide
open space by clustering development; with the exception of 1.26 acres with limited
access provided on the north, there Is no more open space provided than with a
conventional subdivision. She said the stormwater detention areas are required no.bulld
areas; the lots designated for zero lot line dwelling units are not clustered due to
environmental considerations, but are simply located outside of the stormwater detention
areas.
Rockwell said there is also a quesllon as to whether federally designated wellands are
present, because of the hydric solis In the area. Informallon has been requested from
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March 18, 1993
Page 8
the developer, but has not been received. Rockwell Indicated the locations of the hydric
soils in the area on a map. Rockwell noted there is also a prairie remnant on the south
portion of the site and along the railroad. She noted it may be possible to obtain a
conservation easement and have a group knowledgeable in caring for prairies responsible
for the prairie area.
Rockwell said staff also feels the proposed zero lot line development is incompatible wllh
the existing single family development on the west. She noted staff would like to see
deeper lots along Scott Boulevard, She said a revised plat Is expected to be submltled
on Monday, March 23, 1 993, for staff review. Unless the plat Is submitted with numerous
technical deficiencies, It could be presented to the Commission for its consideration at the
April 1 formal meeting.
Rockweli noted the high water table In the area; she said basement conditions In the
rezoning agreement similar to those used for Whispering Meadows and the Iowa Reaity
conditional zoning agreements could be applied to the requested Village Green South
rezoning. .
Rockweil said In terms of open space, the Public Works Department has been concerned
about wet bottom stormwater detention basins being dedicated to the City, because of the
liability and maintenance costs. She said the Parks and Recreation Commission does not
want to preclude the possibility of the stormwater areas becoming a park and would like
the opportunity to meet with the developer to discuss that possibility at the Commission's
April 15, 1993, meeting. Rockwell said If the stormwater retention area Is made public,
staff would like to see pathways constructed by the developer so there are greenway
connections between Scott Boulevard and Wintergreen Drive. Staff also recommends If
the stormwater areas become public parkland, the detention basin not be accepted by the
City until constru'ctlon of the subdivision Is completed.
Rockweil noted staff has concerns about the lack of visibility of and the limited access to
the 1'.26 acres proposed for open space at the north edge of the development. She said
the Ideal size for a neighborhood park is 3 to 4 acres, If 1.74 acres could be added to the
portion currently proposed and if access and visibility were Improved, the park would be
more desirable In terms of neighborhood open space. She said the develope~s
representative is not Inclined to pursue working with the developer to the north to Increase
the size of the park and make the area more visible, accessible and usable.
Rockweli noted according to the Pubilc Works Department, aeration Is required for wet
bottom detention basins. She also noted the developer will be required to obtain
construction easements off-site to the west if the sanitary sewer force main needs to be
upgraded.
Public discussion opened at 8:40 p.m.
Wlliiam Crowley. said he lives In this area, and In the Springtime most of the currently
farmed field floods. He said residents in the neighborhood expected the area to be
developed with single family homes similar to those already In the area. He requested the
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Page 9
Commission to delay voting on this application to allow the residents In the area an
opportunity to present a list of concerns to the Commission. Crowley said development
of the area may result In flooding problems in his neighborhood. He fell there were still
a lot of unanswered questions surrounding this application. Scott said the Intention of the
Commission was to defer this application to the April 1 formal meeting.
In response to a question from BovbJerg, Crowley said several backyards In his
neighborhood are often under water. He noted part of the area In the proposed plat Is
currently a field that usually has standing water until mid-June. Starr asked Crowley what
he envisioned for development In this area. Crowley replied he had envisioned single
family dwellings as opposed to zero lot line/duplexes.
I
Richard Rhodes. 2014 Rochester Avenue. explained there is a remnant of native Iowa
prairie that occurs along the Iowa Interstate Railroad tracks that extends from South East
Junior High to Scott Boulevard. He said It is In variable condition, but is particularly
endangered behind the area where residential development presently exists. He said the
area of dry land between the stormwater detention basin and the prairie remnant provides
an ideal situation for restoration of the prairie. He noted there is no prairie remnant on the
developer's ground; it Is entirely In the railroad right-of-way. But, he noted, if the area
between the stormwater detention basin and the railroad property line was restored to
prairie vegetation and managed as a prairie, he feit It would be a valuable addition to the
City's public park system and an educational tool.
In response to a question from Bovbjerg, Rhodes said it would not be advisable to attempt
to transplant prairie plants. He said the restoration area would need to be seeded with
a native ground cover and then replaced with seeds collected along the railroad remnant.
He said if this area were a City park being managed as a prairie, it might be possible to
get a cooperative agreement with the railroad so that the brush along the railroad would
be controlled in a manner that would encourage the prairie to survive.
Public discussion closed at 8:52 p.m.
Dierks moved to deler REZ92.0017 and SUB92.002B to April 1, 1993. Cooper
seconded.
Scott summarized the concerns of the Commission that the developer should take Into
consideration, Including: 1) the zero lot line structures abulllng the RS-5 zone on Sterling
Court, which the Commission feels should be clustered towards the center of the
development so as not to Impact the existing single. family residential development: 2) If
the stormwater areas are to become public, pathways should be constructed by the
developer to provide alternative greenway connections between Scott Boulevard and
Wintergreen Drive and a connection to the 1.26 acre parkway on the north portion of the
site; 3) additionally, if the parkway, Including the wet bottom stormwater detention basins
are to become a public park, there needs to be a clear understanding that this area will
not be accepted by the City until the completion of construction within the subdivision: 4)
the open space may be adequate, but needs provisions made for the Integration of active
uses with the passive nature of the stormwater areas; 5) the 1.26 acre open space 10 the
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Page 10
I
north should tie in with the adjoining property to the north, or In lieu thereof, the possibility
of increasing the open space areas through expansion of the property reserved for
stormwater management should be explored; 6) there needs to be language addressing
the permissibility of basements; 7) aeration equipment probably needs to be installed In
the wetboltom stonmwater basins; 8) there should be some resolution of the native prairie
Issue; and 9) the off-site construction easement required for the upgrade of the force maln
should be reconciled. He noted there are some major issues that need to be addressed
before the Informal Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on March 29, 1993.
Cook said it appeared to him that much of the open space was proposed as an attempt
to coordinate the stonmwater retention areas with some passive open spaces. This Is
precisely what he has been seeking In subdivision development design. He said It is also
Important to note that while there may well be as much open space In a conventionally
planned subdivision, that open space would not have nearly as much utility as a public,
amenity, because It would be tied up In Individual lots as yards. Cook said he looked
forward to direction from the Parks and Recreation Commission concerning the types of
, active space it would like to see In this area. He did feel the zero lot line structures
backing up to the existing single family dwellings was a flaw In the design of this
development.
Scott shared Cook's enthusiasm for the utilization of the stormwater detention structures
and the areas around them for both passive and active recreational use. He said these
areas need to be turned Into a positive Impact for the neighborhood,
BovbJerg noted her concern about the intensity of development proposed for the site. She
would prefer to see some of the lots designated as zero lot line eliminated to reduce the
overall density of the subdivision. She also would like to see deeper lots along Scott
Boulevard as there are In other developments along that street. It would provide a feeling
of less crowding. Cooper said he has a problem with several zero lot line lots that abut
Scott Boulevard and Sterling Drive. He felt the zero lot lines should be clustered In the
center of the development.
Starr said zero lot lines may create a tad more affordable housing than single family
development. He was not totally convinced that a zero lot line dwelling abutting a single
family residence Is Inappropriate or that clustering Is the answer to the problem. He would
like to see Integration of the two types 01 the housing. Dierks responded that she feels
the City has considered affordable housing In many of the recent subdivisions. She has
heard many comments from newcomers requesting larger lots. She noted she liked the .
street configuration as well as the provision of open space through the center of this
, development.
Cook quoted the Winter 1 993 American Planning Association Journal, which stated that
between 1 gaO and 1 g90, the number of households with children was halved and the
number of single person households doubled. He said greater variation in housing Is
needed to meet the needs of the people of Iowa City. He felt that clustering was the
Commission's best opportunity to combine cost effectiveness with preserving the valuable
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March 18, 1993
Page 11
environmental features of the land. He encouraged the Commission to keep an open
mind on this issue.
The motion carried on a 6.0 vote.
ANNEXATIONIZONING ITEMS:
1. ANN 92.003. REZ 92.0015. Public discussion of an application submitted by Sycamore
Farms Company to annex 420 acre tract of land located south of Highway 6 and the
southern corporate limits, and to rezone the parcel from County RS, Suburban Residential
and R3A, Multi-Family Residential, to RS-8, Medium Density Single-Family Residential,
RM-12, Low Density Multl.Family Residential, RFBH, Factory Built Housing Residential,
CC.2, Community Commercial and CN-1, Neighborhood Commercial. (45-day limitation
period: waived to March 18, 1 993.)
Miklo noted at the February 4 meeting, the Commission Identified three areas which
should be resolved prior to action on this application. He said the first Issue was
Identification of the Jurisdictional wetlands In this area by the Army Corp of Engineers;
that Identification has not occurred yet but staff anticipates it will be done this spring.
Mlklo said the second Issue was the resolution o'f the Department of Natural Resource's
Interpretation of the contract for the sewer plant as it relates to recently approved
amendments to the Comprehensive Plan; the Public Works Department, which manages
the contract for those funds, Is pursuing that Issue and is expecting a written response
from the DNR soon.
Miklo said the third Issue was obtaining Information on the practices of other communities
in terms of regulating sensitive areas, Including wetlands, hydric soils, and areas of high
water tables; the staff has done research and will be presenting a memo at the April 1
meeting. Mlklo noted there are several communities that do regulate wetlands above and
beyond the requirements of the federal government. He said some of those regulations
address mitigation of stormwater runoff as has been discussed by the applicant's
engineer; many also require buffer strips.
Mlklo noted the original application cailed for CC-2 zoning In a portion of the northern area
of the tract; the applicant Is now requesting RFBH zoning west of the proposed street and
RM.20 east of the proposed street. He said some of the Commissioners have expressed
concern about allowing RFBH commercial development adjacent to Highway 6 and would
prefer it be more centrally located within the development; at the next meeting, the
Commission will be discussing the possibility of having the RM.20 zone adjacent to the
highway and the RFBH zone to the east of the proposed street.
Miklo noted the applicant has requested RM-12 zoning for the area in the southwest
portion of the annexation proposal. Because of the condition of Sycamore Street and lack
of intervening development, slaff recommends that area be zoned ID.RM.
Public discussion opened at 9:12 p.m.
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Page 12
Steohen Bricht. aoollcant, said the question was posed at the March 15 meeting whether
the developers could economically forgo development of a portion of ground within the
southem section of the tract. He said there are areas of the development that are
profitable and other areas that are less profitable; the CC.2 and RM.12 areas are
considered a higher valued property for the developers and for the City as a tax base.
He said staff has consistently argued that a CC.2 zone is inappropriate because it Is not
located on two arterial roads; he said he feels that Is irrelevant when the road In front of
the area Is a highway. He noted the City's data Indicates there are 284 acres of CC.2
zoning In the City and 28 acres are vacant; he asked if that 28 acres is developable today.
Bright said if 18 percent growth Is postulated In the next decade, the City should want a
vacancy greater than 10 percent so there Is more competition, He noted this development
is at the east side of the City and he feels it is appropriate to have commercial
development for people who live east of Iowa City, rather than f.orcing them to go through
Iowa City. Bright said economically the developers can afford to forgo development on
another 30 acres and allow 130 acres for open space if the CC.2 zoning is allowed.
Bright said the developers' Intent has always been to have a three part development,
including a higher price development in the RM.12 zone, He said they would now like that
area zoned RM.20; it is Important to the economic basis of the development plan. He
said the developers are agreeable to conditioning any development of the RM.20 on the
developers' acquiring and developing a gravel road that is currently owned by the county
into City standards.
Bright said staff has consistently recommended that the developer pay the costs of
overslzlng utilities and streets in this development; the developers feei this Is In direct
conflict with the mission that the City adopted In the CHAS report (Comprehensive
Housing Affordabllity Strategy) to provide affordable housing. He noted there Is no
adjacent City property that would be served by those oversized utilities and he feels It Is
unreasonable to burden this development with oversizing costs for land that lies in the
county. '
Bright distributed a letter further explaining the points he had discussed and waiving the
45.day limitation period,
Bright noted the appllcant's engineer wlli be meeting with staff next week to pursue the
mitigation plan concept discussed at the March 15 meeting; the developers fully Intend to
subJect the annexation to the condition that a mitigation plan be approved by the City prior
to the start of construction. BovbJerg said she felt the discussion with the applicant's
engineer at the March 15 meeting was very heipful to the Commission.
Jim Miller, 2205 Aber Avenue, Identified himself as part of the development team and
outlined the construction schedule and the variables involved In this project. He noted a
decision by the Commission on April 1 would still allow completion of some homes in 1993
but if the decision Is deferred past that date, homes would not be available until 1994.
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Page 13 '
Miller noted the developers have demonstrated cooperation In providing answers and
solutions to all the Commission's concerns and encouraged the Commission to vote on
this application on April 1.
Raloh Stoffer, 2205 Aber Avenue, discussed the amount and deficiencies of all available
CC-2 zoned land in Iowa City.
Richard Rhodes. 2014 Rochester Avenue, said he was pleased with the general direction
the Sycamore Farms project has been going, particularly with the concept of impact
mitigation of the development on the uplands above the 'Snyder Creek bottoms.' He said
he would like to see more than a concept plan before accepting that the jurisdictional
wetlands will be adequately protected; he still strongly believes nothing on the Sycamore
bottoms should be developed for any purpose.
Rhodes reminded the Commission that In the Snyder Creek watershed, the 100 year flood
limit determination has been mapped only to rural standards which are approximate; he
said he Is quite skeptical about their accuracy.
Public discussion closed at 9:39 p.m.
Dierks moved to defer ANN 93-003 and REZ 92-0015 to April 1, 1993. Bovbjerg
seconded.
Scott noted he has requested the minutes of the March 15 meeting be Included In the
Commissioners' packets for the next meeting; he feels the minutes from March 4, March
15, March 18, and March 29 will contain a sumr,nary of the significant time and effort spent
by the Commission to try to reach some conclusions on this particular request and to
make an educated and reasonable recommendation to Council.
Scott said some of the major Issues that will be dealt with in the proposed mitigation plan
Include: easement restrictions to plantlngs and landscaping on or in the open spaces that
are provided In consideration of mitigating circumstances to minimally Impact upon the
water recharge of the area and the wetlands if development occurs; the mitigation plan
needs to include the entire developed area as well as the public areas; and the mitigation
plan needs to be subjected to some formalized approval process, either by the Public
Works Department or an outside consultant.
The motion carried on a 6-0 vote.
2. ANN 93.0001, REZ 93-0003. Public discussion of an application submitted by Windsor
Ridge Development Co. to annex an approximate 5.59 acre tract of land located north of
American Legion Road at the north terminus of Owl Song Lane SE, and to rezone the
parcel from County RS, Residential Suburban, to RS-5, Low Density Single-Family
Residential. (45-day limitation period: March 29, 1993,)
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March IS, 1993
Page 14
Rockwell noted the memo distributed to the Commission suggesting language for the
recommendation to Council. Illncluded Incorporating the .127 acre of open space with
the open space that will be dedicated with the larger 240 acre tract of Windsor Ridge.
Public discussion opened at 9:44 p.m.
There was none.
Public discussion closed at 9:44 p.m.
Cook moved to approve ANN 93-0001 to annex an approximate 5.59 acre tract of
land located north of American Legion Road at the north terminus of Owl Song
Lane SE. Starr seconded. The mollon carried on a 6-0 vole.
Cooper moved to approve REZ 93.0003 to rezone an approximate 5.59 acre tract of
land located north of American Legion Road at the north terminus of Owl Song
Lane SE from County RS, Suburban Resldentlal,to RS.5, Low Density Single-Family
Residential with the clear understanding that all of the costs associated with
providing Infrastructure for the development of the sUbJect tract will be paid for by
the developer, and subject to 1) City Development Board approval of the annexation
of the original 240 acre Windsor Ridge tract, 2) City Development Board approval
of the requested 5.59 acre annexation, and 3) the developer dedicating .127 acre of
open space In addition to and Incorporated as part of the 6.9 acres of open space
required of the original 240 acre Windsor Ridge tract; the location of the open space
shall be negotiated with the City of Iowa City. Starr seconded.
Scollthanked the developer for agreeing to the additional open space and staff for
drafting the Commission's motion which Incorporated the open space requirement of the
tract. .
The motion carried on a'6.0 vote.
3. ANN 93.0002, REZ 93.0004. Public discussion of an application submilled by Rob
Phipps, on behalf of property owner Mitchell.Phlpps, to annex an approximate 6.92 acre
tract of land located south of Scott Park and north of Falrview Golf Course, and to rezone
the parcel from County RS, Suburban Residential, to RS.S, Medium Density Single.Family
Residential. (45.day limitation period: Aprli 12, 1993.)
Rockwell said staff felt It would be advisable to annex this tract Into the City. She said
it was the understanding that all the sewer lines, water mains, and streets constructed in
the newly annexed area would be paid for by the developer, The tract is within the sewer
service area of the City. She noted there has been insufflcienllnformation submitted with
the application to make a determination of whether an RS.S zoning of the property Is
appropriate. The surrounding zoning Is RS.5 or less. Rockwell said staff has some
environmental concerns about the flood plain area, as weli as concerns about secondary
access and the extension of utilities affecting Scott Park, Given those concerns, staff
recommended the most appropriate zone for this tract at this time was ID-RS.
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 1B, 1993
Page 15
Public discussion opened at 9:49 p.m.
There was none.
Public discussion closed at 9:49 p.m.
BovbJerg moved to defer ANN 93.0002 and REZ 93.0004 to April 1 ,1993. Cooper
seconded. The motion carried on a 6.0 vote.
ZONING ITEMS:
1. CZ-9305. Public discussion of an application submitted by Raymond Wiillams and Orlln
Hochstetler to rezone two 1.99 acre parcels of a j 6.04 acre tract located in Fringe Area
1 on the east side of Kansas Avenue SW, approximately I/B-mlle north of Its Intersection
with Rohret Road from the County designation of A I, Rural, to RS, Suburban Residential.
Miklo explained the Commission reviewed a proposal to rezone this property last fall and
recommended to the Councli that the proposed rezoning be denied; ,the request was
denied by the County Board of Supervisors.
Miklo said the current application Is on the same property but would only rezone only two
1.99 building sites at the front of the property; the remainder of the site would continue to
be zoned AI, Rural, and be split between the two bulidlng sites.
I
Miklo noted that, at the time of the earlier rezoning request, there were concerns about
soli conditions and their ability to adequately serve septic systems, the effect on existing
water wells for the neighboring residential structures, and the condition of Kansas Avenue;
these conditions have not changed and staff recommends this rezoning not be approved.
He also noted Fringe Area 1 calls for residential uses only In association with farm
families.
Public discussion opened at 9:51 p.m.
Sue Chase, identified herself as an adjacent property owner and said she would prefer
this tract not be rezoned because of the concerns mentioned by Miklo. She said she Is
also concerned about the Impact of the new school going onto Rohret Road and the
amount of traffic it will generate In this area.
Chase asked how many acres of vacant residentially zoned land Is available in the rural
areas of the County. She aid she had asked the County Zoning Commission and they did
not know. She said she suspected there may be thousands of vacant acres already
zoned for residential development In the County. She said that additional residential
zoning should not be granted in areas that do not have adequate roads and services.
Tim Thompson noted the County Board of Supervisors denied the first application less
than 60 days ago. He said two wells In the area have already dried up; one of those wells
had to be replaced with a deeper well. He quoted from a geological report of the area
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Planning & Zoning Commission
March 18, 1993
Page 16
that states the deeper aquifer Is highly mineralized and objectionable for drinking; it further
states it Is very expensive and probably not entirely successful to treat this water.
Thompson said he fears additional development in the area will cause partial or total
failures of many wells in the area.
Thompson presented a petition with 22 signatures to the Commission opposing the
rezoning.
Thompson said another concern for the City Is the proximity of this request to the Iowa
City landfill; increased population will Increase the risk of liability If the landfill ever leaked.
Thompson noted the poor condition of Rohret Road and said he Is concerned that the 20
mile per hour speed limit near the new school will cause a lot of traffic problems.
Public discussion closed at 9:59 p.m.
Dierks moved to recommend to the City Council that It forward a comment to the
Johnson County Board of Supervisors finding that CZ-9305, the request to rezone
an approximately 3.9 acre tract of land from A 1, Rural, to RS, Suburban Residential,
Is Inconsistent with the mutually agreed upon Fringe Area Agreement for Area 1 and
should be denied. Cook seconded.
I
Scott said the same reasons the Commission forwarded a recommendation for denial In
the fall of 1992 for the rezoning request by Jeffrey Dwyer are applicable today.
Scott also mentioned that the City and County Planning and Zoning Commissions are
involved In Fringe Area discussions for revisions to the Fringe Areas, He complimented
the county staff and the County Commission for their hard work In providing information
on this Issue.
The motion carried on a 6-0 vote.
2. REZ92.0009. Public discussion of an application submitted by Joan Hart to rezone
properties located on the north side of Jefferson Street between Linn and Van Buren
streets; and property located on the south side of Jefferson Street between Glibert and
Van Buren streets from CB-2, Central Business Service, to CO. 1 ,Commercial Office. (45-
day limitation period: waived to April 15, 1993.)
Publ,lc discussion opened at 10:04 p.m.
There was none.
PUblic discussion closed at 10:04 p.m.
Bovbjerg moved to defer REZ92.0009 to April 15, 1993. Dierks seconded. The
motion carried on a 6-0 vote.
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March 18, 1 993
Page 17
3. Public discussion of a request submitted by Arlana and Larry Betenbender to amend the
Zoning Ordinance to restrict the location of basketball or tennis courts relative to property
lines.
Moen said this request was brought to the Commission's attention last fall by a property
owner that has experienced some difficulty with a neighboring basketball court; that
property owner Is asking that the Commission consider amending the Zoning Ordinance
to place restrictions on the location of basketball or tennis courts relative to neighboring
property lines. Moen said the Commission only needs to determine whether they want
to consider this issue; and if so, whether to place it on the Commission's pending list.
Public discussion opened at1 0:06 p.m.
Charlie Ruppert, 1406 N. Dubuque Road, asked if there were any restrictions against a
property owner placing a basketbali hoop right at the property line and cementing most
of their backyard. He said the court Is used at night and the lights and noise are
disturbing to the adjacent property owners.
Public discussion closed at 10:0B p.m.
Bovbjerg moved to place the request by the Betenbenders to have the Commission
review ordinance language concerning restrictions to the location of basketball or
tennis courts relative to property line on the Commission's pending list. Cook
seconded.
In response to a question from Starr, Miklo said no more than 50 percent of the front yard
can be paved for a single family home but these restrictions do not apply to the
backyards.
Bovbjerg said she feels this Is a problem between neighbors and the Commission should
not get Involved. Scott agreed; he said did not want to try to develop ordinances to deal
with every potential use of a person's back yard.
Cooper also agreed and noted, even if an ordinance restricted pavement wit~ln a set
number of feet from the property line, the noise and lights would sUII disturb the neighbors.
The motion failed on 0.6 vote.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 4. 1993 MEETING;
Cooper moved to approve the minutes of the March 4, 1993 meeting. Dierks seconded.
The motion carried on a 6.0 vote.
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March 18, 1993
Page 18
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION INFORMATION:
Bovbjerg reported the Council reappointed Tom Scott and George Starr to the Planning and
Zoning Commission. She said the Council must have recognized, as the Commissioners do, that
Scott's and Starr's expertence and dedicaUon to the work of the Commission have contributed
to the welfare of the City and will conUnue to do so.
Dierks excused herself from the meeUng at 10:14 p.m.
Cook stressed a letter he had written that was published In the Des Moines Sundav Reqister and
pertained to the expansion of the University of Iowa Hospitals and the Impact of that expansion
on the surrounding neighborhood was his own opinion and not the opinion of the Planning and
Zoning Commission. He said he particularly wanted to apologize to Dick Gibson, who was In the
unenviable position of having to represent the University Hospitals In this regard while serving on
the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Cook added that he finds it Ironic that the City can deny zoning to a 5,000 square foot medical
clinic at the IntersecUon of Mormon Trek and Benton Street, and at the same time watch 100,000
plus square feet of new hospital be constructed in a neighborhood that has inadequate
Infrastructure. He thought that this was clearly an issue that it was reasonable to expect people,
particularly those who live in the neighborhood, to speak out on. He thought that The University
should be held accountable to the same standards that the City expects from a local Quick Trip.
Cook said the focus of any environmental study on this Issue should be on the growth of the
University Hospitals and how to manage that growth more appropriately, rather than on steps
made necessary to ameliorate that growth.
ADJOURNMENT:
I
Bovblerg moved to adjourn at 10:19 p.m. Seconded by Cook. The motion carried on a 5-0
vote.
Ann Bovbjerg, Secretary
Minutes submitted by Nancy Schreiber
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