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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977-12-06 Bd Comm. MinutesF REGULAR MEETING OF LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1977 4:15 P.M. LIBRARY AUDITORIUM MEMBERS PRESENT: Bartley, Bezanson, Farber, Hyman, Kirkman, Moore, Newsome, Ostedgaard, Richerson MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Westgate, Eggers, McGuire, Craig OTHERS PRESENT: Marlene Perrin, Iowa City Press Citizen Summary of Discussion and Action Taken Minutes for the regular meeting of September 22, special meetings of October 13, 17 and 18th were approved as presented. It was moved by Newsome and seconded by Farber that the financial reports be accepted. Unanimous. The secretary was directed to write a letter of thanks to the FRIENDS of ICPL for their gift of $2800.00 to the Library's Gift and Bequest Fund. This money is for a new microfilm reader, a rear projection screen and for a start on a toy collection for the Children's Room. Grants from the Gifts & Bequest Fund for $150.00 for blank video tapes and approximately $200.00 to purchase film on the restoration of Old Capitol were approved. Director's report attached. There was a lengthy discussion on Board.member's reactions to interviews with architects held October 24. Brown Healy Bock, McConnell Steveley Anderson, Thorson Brom Broshar Snyder and Hansen Lind Meyer, Inc. were interviewed. Each member reported their individual reactions and their position regarding the firms under conideration. The opinions of staff members and the Director were considered. On motion of Newsome, seconded by Moore, the Board voted 7-1 to negotiate a contract with Hansen Lind Meyer. Ayes: Bartley, Farber, Hyman, Kirkman, Moore, Newsome, Richerson. Nays: Ostedgaard. Absent: Bezanson. The Board asked that a contract similar to the first one be drawn naming Charles M. Engberg as project architect and releasing the Board from any liability under the previous contract. Meetings for November and December were set. There will be a building meeting on November 10 at 7:30 P.M. and the regular monthly meeting was moved to November 17 at 4:15 P.M. In December the IV50 0 -2- 0 building meeting will be at 7:30 P.M. on December 15 and the regular meeting at 4:15 on December 22. Special library hours during the Christmas and New Years period were approved. The library will close at 5:00 P.M. Saturday, December 24 and December 31 and will be closed all day Sunday and Monday, Dec. 25, 26 and January 1 and 2. Discussion concerning service to University Heights was postponed until a meeting with the City Manager could be arranged. The Board will discuss the FY1979 budget at the meeting set for Thursday, November 10 and will formally approve the budget prior to submission to the city at their regular meeting on November 17. Richard Hyman requested that budget goals be quantified so that the Board would know more about the amount of resources allocated to each one. On recommendation of the Director, the reclassification of the senior clerk position in Technical Services to library assistant effective January 1 was approved. Hyman/Ostedgaard. The Board reviewed the proposed policy for setting fees for library service contracts. On motion of Hyman, seconded by Bartley, the proposed policy on contract fees was accepted with an amendment raising the surcharge from 10 to 158. Unanimous. The fee will be based on the percentage of total use attributable to the contracting jurisdiction for the most recently completed fiscal year. This percentage is applied to the current year's operating budget and the resulting amount divided by the most recent census figure for the contracting jurisdiction to obtain a per capita figure. A 158 surcharge is then applied to account for costs not reflected in the library's annual operating budget and for the 2 year time lag between year of recorded use and year of payment. Under this formula total fees for North Liberty for FY1979 would be $4,748. ($3.37 per capita) and for Johnson County rural residents $42,960. ($3.10 per capita). The Director's first quarter review of FY1978 goals and objectives was accepted without discussion. On suggestion of Hyman, the President appointed Hyman and Moore to prepare suggestions for a pre -Christmas Board party for library staff by the next meeting. Meeting adjourned at 6:25 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Lyn'de�S�`'Osted9aara��Secretary 0 0 Director's Report 10-27-77 Financial Receipt of annual income from the Walker Trust and the first major gift from the FRIENDS of ICPL has raised the current balance of the Gifts and Bequest Fund to $7,026. All but about $3,000 is earmarked for special use or encumbered through Board action. Personnel Susan Craig, former work/study aide, temporary technical ser- vices clerk and substitute information librarian has been appointed to the 3/4 time professional position in the Information Dept. vacated by Mary Burton. She will select materials on history, travel, crafts, home economics, and psychology; supervise the pamphlet file; and serve at the Information Desk. Susan is the author of the library's slide/tape show "Growing Pains: the Iowa City Public Library." We have finally filled all six work/study positions. It has become increasingly difficult to find suitable students to fill these positions. For one thing, our wage scale is no longer as attrac- tive relative to other work/study positions as it once was. This should be re-evaluated. While work/study and CETA and the 8 or 9 other temporary positions are now essential to the operation of the library at the present level of service, turn over in these kinds of jobs is high and it takes more and more administrative time to select and train these people. Programming The October 1 showing of the three films and slide shows about Iowa City was a great success. This is an especially attractive program to long time residents of Iowa City. The fourth annual Model Railroad Show will be held November 19 and 20th. The Children's Room is planning a Sunday afternoon film series for January thru March. The theme will be animals and will feature natural history films as well as films based on stories about animals. This series is designed for families. A staff program coordinating committee has been appointed in order to plan, evaluate and coordinate library programs. One of their goals is to draft a programming policy for Board consideration. Programming is popular with our users but costly in staff time. We must consider its purpose and effect in terms of our goals and resources. Video at the Library The video player and monitor on long term loan from the State Library is in place ready for use. A small grant from Gifts A Bequests would allow us a supply of blank video tape in order to take advantage of opportunities to copy video tapes locally which have no copyright restrictions. We are also searching for gift monies to start a small video tape collection so that we can demonstrate the medium to library users. We have also had requests from some local groups for facilities on which to view their own video tapes. We can now provide this in a very limited way. This Report I have tried in recent months to gravely limit the content of this monthly report because of the lengthening agenda of Board meetings. I would welcome ideas on alternative ways of keeping Board members posted on the wide assortment of activities that are always underway. Too much emphasis on resources, monthly expenditures, personnel changes, policy and goals doesn't begin to describe the exciting and eternally changing variety of ser- vices and activities that make-up the daily life of a public library. Nor does it adequately describe the unending pressure from the public to provide more and more services with approxi- mately the same resources. Both the challenging variety of opportunities to serve and the frustrating realization that time and resources are finite must be experienced to completely under- stand the problem of providing library service to this community. F7 MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES NOVEMBER 11, 1977 - 7:30 p.m. (Dir.'s Office) MEMBERS PRESENT: Bartley, Bezanson, Farber, Hyman, Moore, Newsome, Ostedgaard, Richerson MEMBERS ABSENT: Kirkman STAFF PRESENT: Eggers, McGuire OTHERS PRESENT: KXIC Representative, Sue Young Jerry Newsome chaired the meeting in the absence of President Kirkman. A draft of the FY 79 budget was reviewed. The director noted that the library is overextended and will have to reduce the present level of service unless there are additions to the staff. Increasing costs for personnel, building maintenance and inflation have reduced other parts of the budget proportionately. The library is buying 30% less volumes than five years ago; about one-half of what meeting national standards would require. Use of all library services are increasing ata - Fester rate than staff has been added. Tentative approval way ''-Aw of the final budget package on November 17. Objections to the by some members of th discussed. The cont+r alternatives for a r, seconded that the C' them at their earli' with CPCC Chairman' A draft of an al recommended. The V. department for revie November 17 meeting. •w facility voiced II ttee were g location nd Richerson to meet with tangements wed and changes ty legal n at the The building colmnit. fall and will review architectural concepts wi. they are brought to the fall Board for approves _i consist of Kirkman, Bezanson, Eggers, Susan MCGuire,.t,.. .+eal'Berlin, and.a member of the community to be appointed. The latter should be someone who is inter- ested in the library and has had substantial experience in the building trades. The schedule as developed by the architect was accepted. RETAKE OF PRECEDING DGC r!< JORM MICROLAB TARGET SERIES W" SO 0 -z- 0 which have no copyright restrictions. We are also searching for gift monies to start a small video tape collection so that we can demonstrate the medium to library users. We have also had requests from some local groups for facilities on which to view their own video tapes. We can now provide this in a very limited way. This Report I have tried in recent months to gravely limit the content of this monthly report because of the lengthening agenda of Board meetings. I would welcome ideas on alternative ways of keeping Board members posted on the wide assortment of activities that are always underway. Too much emphasis on resources, monthly expenditures, personnel changes, policy and goals doesn't begin to describe the exciting and eternally changing variety of ser- vices and activities that make-up the daily life of a public library. Nor does it adequately describe the unending pressure from the public to provide more and more services with approxi- mately the same resources. Both the challenging variety of opportunities to serve and the frustrating realization that time and resources are finite must be experienced to completely under- stand the problem of providing library service to this community. • -2- e) What provisions are made for garbage collection 12) A plat of the Park shall accarPanY this application setting out the numbered trailer sites, patios, streets, storage areas (if any) , sever accessnd sttol��I making spaces park or playground areas, sidewalks, lighting, city streets, service buildings and location of any other items. This Plat shall be to scale and shall show the dimensions of all of the above. 13) Plans and specifications of all buildings as approved by the City Public Works Department shall also accpany this application. rn MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES NOVEMBER 11, 1977 - 7:30 p.m. (Dir.'s Office) MEMBERS PRESENT: Bartley, Bezanson, Farber, Hyman, Moore, Newsome, Ostedgaard, Richerson MEMBERS ABSENT: Kirkman STAFF PRESENT: Eggers, McGuire OTHERS PRESENT: KXIC Representative, Sue Young Jerry Newsome chaired the meeting in the absence of President Kirkman. A draft of the FY 79 budget was reviewed. The director noted that the library is overextended and will have to reduce the present level of service unless there are additions to the staff. Increasing costs for personnel, building maintenance and inflation have reduced other parts of the budget proportionately. The library is buying 30% less volumes than five years ago; about one-half of what meeting national standards would require. Use of all library services are increasing at a much faster rate than staff has been added. Tentative approval was given, pending review of the final budget package on November 17. Objections to the library's planning process for a new facility voiced by some members of the Comprehensive Plan Coordinating Committee were discussed. The content of the Committee's Issue N concerning location alternatives for a new library was reviewed. Farber moved and Richerson seconded that the CPCC be notified that the Board would like to meet with them at their earliest convenience. Farber will make the arrangements with CPCC Chairman Richard Blum. A draft of an amendment to the contract with HLM was reviewed and changes recommended. The Director will give the changed version to city legal department for review and it will be on the agenda for adoption at the November 17 meeting. The building committee will start functioning this fall and will review architectural concepts with Hansen Lind Meyer before they are brought to the fall Board for approval. The committee will consist of Kirkman, Bezanson, Eggers, Susan McGuire,.City Manager Nea•1'Berlin, and a member of the community to be appointed. The latter should be someone who is inter- ested in the library and has had substantial experience in the building trades. The schedule as developed by the architect was accepted. ///so -2 - The regular December meeting was changed from Thursday, December 22 to Wednesday, Dec. 21, 4:15 p.m. Preliminary architectural concepts will be presented at that meeting. The Board will ask for an opinion from the city legal department concerning the municipal election campaign finance ordinance. The question: does the recent amendment extending the ordinance's coverage to "ballot issues" apply to a bond issue referendum for a new library, and if so, at what point in time would the issue be considered a "ballot issue" for purposes of this ordinance. As chairman of the Finance Committee for the Building Program, Richard Hyman requested that other committees, especially the referendum and the public information committees, have a tentative budget to him by the December 21 meeting. It was agreed that the Board should have a meeting with the newly elected councilmembers and give them a tour of the building early in January. Tentative dates were set for Sunday, January 8 or Sunday, January 15. Councilman Vevera will also be invited since he has been unable to attend all previous such occasions. Members of the Board will talk with council candidates Ira Bolnick and Fredine Branson to discuss their experiences in talking with citizens about the prospect of a new library. Meeting adjourned 10:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, L54da S. Ostedgaard, Secr tary r �` r9 - • O MINUTES •IOWA CITY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION RECREATION CENTER ROOM B NOVEMBER 9, 1977 MEMBERS PRESENT: Boutelle, Cilek (7:52 p.m.), Crum, Mascher, McLaughlin, Moore (7:50 p.m.), Stockman, Thayer MEMBERS ABSENT: Skelley STAFF PRESENT: Adams, Hauber, Howell, Lee, Showalter GUESTS: Paula Chadray, Diane Karkiewicz RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY COUNCIL: 1. That the land known as the Showers property be named Napoleon Park. 2. That the Parks and Recreation Commission recommends approval of the Recreation Division budget of $441,000 plus other self-supporting Level III activities. 3. That the Parks and Recreation Commission recommends funding of Level II of the Park Division budget plus funding for ice skating pond re -surfacing as per Level III. RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE STAFF: • 1. That further discussion of Camp Cardinal be deferred until December and that Staff make a full report at that time on the use of the property, cost, maintenance, Rotary Club use of buildings, and consultation with the University, School Board, and Coralville. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: The Iowa City Parks and Recreation Commission met in Regular Session on November 9 with Chairperson Boutelle presiding. * It was moved and seconded that the minutes of the October 12 meeting be approved as written. Unanimous. Subcommittee. Riverfront Commission, Ralston Creek The Park Naming Subcommittee reported that ten suggestions had been received regarding the naming of Sand Road Park; eight suggestions were to name the park "Napoleon Park" due to the Napoleon townsite which was included in the acquisition. Stockman indicated that the Subcommittee favored naming the park "Napoleon Park" and, following dis- cussion, she moved and Crum seconded that the land known as the Showers property be named "Napoleon Park". Unanimous. • McLaughlin reported that he had been unable to attend the Riverfront Commission meeting held earlier in the day. He indicated that the Riverfront Commission was looking at the possibility of acquiring the Meardon property across the river from Crandic Park (15 acres). APS -1 Minutes Page 2 November 9, 1977 • Boutelle reported that the Ralson Creek Coordinating Committee had not met recently. He did indicate that he had met informally with neighborhood residents to look at the proposed dam site in Hickory hill Park. Cilek stated that the Committee on Community Needs proposed to the Council an expen- diture of $15,000 for trees as part of a $205,000 neighborhood improvement program utilizing H.C.D.A. funds. Eight neighborhoods are included in the target area with four to be target this year and four next year. He also indicated that the Longfellow neighborhood improvement program has already been accepted by the Council. Refit on co-rec and family recreation activities. Lee reported on co-rec and family activities offered by the Recreation Division. The Commission made several suggestions and requested a five minute report at future meetings regarding these activities. Discussion of Camp Cardinal. Camp Cardinal was discussed with Showalter reading a letter from Kenneth Dolan, Rotary Club, regarding the proposed lease of the property by the City. Cilek stated his concern about maintenance of the property in view of the Department's budgetary situation as opposed to other, more pressing needs. Following discussion, Thayer • moved and Stockman seconded that further discussion of Camp Cardinal be deferred until December and that Staff make a full report at that time on the use of the property, cost, maintenance, Rotary Club use of buildings, and consultation with the University, School Board, and Coralville. Unanimous. Discussion of Commission Goals and Objectives. The Goals and Objectives of the Commission were discussed with Mascher and McLaughlin appointed to meet with Showalter on November 14 to draft them. Input of the Commission members is to be obtained prior to that meeting. Executive Session. Crum moved and Stockman seconded that the Commission go into Executive Session to discuss land acquisition. Unanimous. Discussion of FY 79 budgets. The Executive Session was adjourned. Following a discussion of the Recreation Division budget, Thayer moved and Cilek seconded that the Parks and Recreation Commission recommend approval of the Recreation Division budget of $441,000 plus other self- supporting Level III activities. Unanimous. • Minutes Page 3 November 9, 1977 * Regarding the Park Division budget, Cilek moved and Thayer seconded that the Commission recommend funding of Level II of the Park Division budget plus funding for ice skating pond re -surfacing as per Level III. Unanimous. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 11C• Ellen R. Flowers, Secretary • L 1 0)1\ 0 MINUTES IOWA CITY RIVERFRO14T COMMISSION • RECREATION CENTER ROOM A NOVEMBER 9, 1977 0 MEMBERS PRESENT: Fahr, Fountain, Horton, Lindberg, Vetter MEMBERS ABSENT: Brandrup, Epley, McLaughlin, Neuzil, Woodruff STAFF PRESENT: Flowers, Milkman RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY COUNCIL: 1. That the Riverfront Commission recommends to the City Council that its priorities for land acquisition be Tract III, Tract II, and Tract V of the Showers property in order. 2. That the Commission reaffirms the long-term plans for the peninsula development, but that does not require capital expenditures at this time. 3. That the Riverfront Commission proposes funding for the research and development of the Napoleon townsite with a maximum expenditure of $6,000. RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION 1. That, as the Commission is considering naming the Sand Road property, it would &uggest the name Napoleon Townsite Park. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: The Iowa City Riverfront Commission met in Regular Session with Chairperson Fahr presiding. * Lindberg moved and Horton seconded that the minutes of the September 14 meeting be approved as written. Unanimous. * Horton moved and Fountain seconded that the minutes of the September 21 meeting be approved with the following corrections: Page 1 - paragraph 2 - "Johnson County Planning Commission" should be changed to "Johnson County Zoning Commission". Page 2 - paragraph 1 - "October 6" should be changed to "October 4". Page 2 - paragraph 2 - "Johnson County Zoning Board" should be changed to "Johnson County Zoning Commission". Page 2 - paragraph 2 - "Task Force on Comprehensive Planning" should be changed to "Task Force on Campus Planning". Page 2 - paragraph 4 - "Johnson County Conservation Commission" should be changed to "Johnson County Conservation Board". The corrected minutes were unanimously approved. * Vetter then moved and it was seconded that the minutes of the October 19 meeting be Opproved as written. Unanimous. y/Sz 11 Minutes Page 2 November 9, 1977 The recently purchased park land on Horton Seconded that the Riverfront and Recreation it would suggesmmission that t the as Road property, 40 Sand Road was discussed. Lindberg moved and Commission recommission recommend ntotthe SandParks the Commission is considering name Napoleon Townsite Park. Unanimous. P less was being dedicated to the 0 Southgate Development; the land lies along Milkman reported that the land behind $Southgambo's an ve bikeway. City by the developer of the property, the strip of land include a walkway/ the river. She indicated that p Capital the pros and cons of the purchase The Commission discussed "The Iowa City Riverfront Commission Proposed dscussion, Improvement Program, FY 79-83 with Milkman outlining seconded that the Riverfront recommend andto the Tract Vity of each of the tracts of land listed in the report. following Horton moved and Lindberg Council that its priorities for land acquisition be Tract 11 1, of the Showers property in order. Unanimous. The Commission noted that it would also watch certain areas regarding future acquisition. (Report attached) peninsula seconded development, but that does not require capital expenditures Lindberg moved and Horton seconded that the Riverfront Commission reaffirm the long- Lindberg plans for the at this time. Unanimous.e • for the research and development of the Napoleon townsit Commission propose funding k Following further discussion, Horton moved and Vetter seconded that the Riverfron with a maximum expenditure of 86,000. Unanimous. Land Use and Water Resources The appointment of Commission members to the Johnson County Committee and the Waste Water Facilities Committee was deferred to the next meeting. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 5:10 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Ellen R. Flowers, Secretary J IOWA CITY RIVERFRONr COMMISSION PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVINENT PROGRAM FY 179 - 83 l� Background: The Stanley report on the Iowa River Corridor provides a long term plan for the maintenance, preservation anti development of the Iowa River and its banks. The Riverfront Commission is considering the priorities for land acquisition and/or easements in the corridor; these priorities are dictated largely by development pressures on certain areas and by land availability. Curing 1977 the Iowa City City Council acquired two significant pieces of property along the Iowa River at the recommendation of the Riverfront Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission. Both properties are in the southern river corridor. One is Tract I of the Showers property (see attached map) where 26 acres were purchased with Revenue Sharing Funds for approximately $157,000. The other property is a strip of riverfront land approximately 45' wide on the westside of the river running from Highway 6 By-pass to the Waterfront Lounge property line. This strip was donated to the City by the Southgate Development Co., developers of the Sturgis Corner Addition. Proposed CIP Projects Land' Acquisitions: 1. Acquisition of Tract II of the Showers Property (without houses) de Estimated size: 30 acres Estimated cost: $1,000 / acre Total Cost: $10,000 (This land was recently sold by the Showers estate to the owner of the two largest houses in the area, Initial investigations indicate that the new owner might be willing to sell the woodlands to the City) 2. Acquisition of Tract V of the Showers Property Estimated size: 55 acres Estimated cost: $800 / acre (1976 appraisal) Total Cost: $44,000 3. Acquisition of Tract 111 of the Showers Property Estimated Size: 47 acres Estimated cost: $1,000 / acre (1976 appraisal) Total Cost: $47,000, 4. Land for Park in Peninsula Area Estimated Size: 15 - 20 acres Estimated cost: $120,000 - $160,000, 'Z• Easements: Is • 1. 45' easement (or purchase) of land adjacent to river behind the Waterfront Lounge at Benton St. (This would provide a continuous corridor along the River from Benton St. to Highway 6 on the west bank) 2. 100 ft. wide (or wider in parts) strip of land in the floodplain area of the • "peninsula" (See attached map.) Gobi esY +ores .mal be- koodakc- n-1- 3. 50+ ft. easement along west bank of Iowa River from Benton St. north to Burlington St. Reaeons For priorities Showers property: 1. One of the immediate goals of the Riverfront Commission is to improve the accessibility and visual qualities of the riverfront areas in the southern portion of the city, for residents in this area who are currently poorly served with park and recreation facilities. 2. The location of the new waste water facility will permit sewering of large new areas in this southern section (the Snyder Creek Watershed) and there will be considerable development pressure on this riverfront land. 3. The property is part of the area proposed for annexation to the city, • which will also put increased development pressures on it. 4. These pressures are likely to make the price of the land increase rapidly. S. The bottom land woods of Tract II provide an attractive natural area and a type of vegetation and habitat not available to residents of Iowa City else- where. Tract V currently has no public access but is of value to ensure pre- servation and to eventually provide a continuous corridor along the west bank of the river from Highway 6 south. Tract III is a prime candidate for future development and has the advantage (over Tract IV) of having only 3 or 4 houses on it. Easements: 1. Acquisition of easements or land from Burlington St, to Highway 6 By-pass (on the west riverbank) has begun. In order to provide a continuous corridor and public access to this part of the river discussion is continuing with the owners of commercial propertie along South Riverside Drive, With one except- ion, (the Waterfront Lounge),, Mese properties are oriented towards the High- way and make no use of the land immediately adjacent to the river. 2. A new trunk sewer running along the east bank of the river north to I-80 is due for installation in Spring 1978, This sewer will make development of the peninsula area possible, Much of the land adjacent to the river in the peninsula is in the flood plain (see map), would be highly suitable for recreatiort� and much less suitable for development. In this area the owner/developer might grant the City an easement along the river in return for development at a higher density in the the rest of the property currently zoned R I A. Goals: • Riverfront Commission • Goals and Objectives *To protect and preserve the Iowa River as a natural drainageway and source of water. 'To promote and develop the use of land along the river for overall capability. *To make the most of the scenic potential and aesthetic values of the Iowa River and the flood plain adjoining it. *To develop to the fullest the recreational capacity of the river and flood plain. *To heighten awareness of the Iowa River as a part of the heritage of this community. 'To ensure that use of the river can be enjoyed by all in the safest possible way. Objectives: *To develop land use policies that will guide the appropriate development and redevelopment of the Iowa River area and environment. *Preserve and increase open spaces and green areas along both banks of the 10 river and acquire scenic wooded sites to conserve them. *Identify and preserve unique or outstanding topographical or geological features of the river. *Develop scenic areas and outlooks. *Expand opportunities for aquatic activities such as boating and fishing. *In conjunction with other parties, public, or private, acquire riverfront and flood plain property for public use and enjoyment. *Provide greenway linkages between riverfront activities so as to furnish uninterrupted walking and cycling along the river and flood plain. *Improve public access along the river and flood plain. *Reduce all forms of pollution to the lowest possible level. *Preserve and interpret historic landmarks and sites along the river. *Emphasize safe water practices and conduct on the part of all users. *To increase cooperation and participation of all interested parties, public, and private alike, in the management and development of the Iowa • River and flood plain. Funding: e e 1. Reveunue Sharing Funds. 2. Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, land and Water Conservation Funds. These funds are available on a 50 - 50 match basis and Revenue Sharing Funds are eligible to provide the match. The state of Iowa has nn allocation of $2 million for FY 78 for local use (nlmost double the FY 77 allocation) and Iowa City is eligible, as a municipality, to apply for finding. From 1966 - 1976 LAWCF has funded projects in Johnson County for a total of $656,670. However, with two small exceptions, all the money has been used for F. W. Fent Park and Lake McBride State Park, both of which are in the northern part of the county. A good case can therefore be made for funding projects in the central and southern portions of the county. e e Y*Erq r (60 L14. A f*, r=)4 OF I-Owfot P\lvER MW FLoo,p ftalri 100 YR•Ff WD,. RM 193 //C CONALVILLE CITY O -u RM 20 x ZONE B \ lAh CH r =— -- ZONE:B - Z( :I I IBLOOLtINGTON • Sy5 �i yyyy7yy w c �yt�sz���� W Q M J W A m L .14 MINUTES IOWA CITY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT NOVEMBFR 9, 1977 -- 3:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Goedken, Fowles, Conlin STAFF PRESENT: Schmeiser, Kushnir, Ryan, Siders, Edberg, McKean, Child FORMAL ACTIONS TAKEN: 1. To deny V-7712, application submitted by Iowa State Bank and Trust Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.18 of the Zoning Ordinance to alter an existing non -conforming sign at 102 S. Clinton Street, on the basis that the applicant failed to prove an unnecessary hardship. 2. To deny V-7713, application submitted by Advance Sign Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.7A.1 of the Zoning Ordinance to permit a sign to be placed within a five (5) foot setback from the property line, on the basis that the applicant did not prove an unnecessary hardship. 3. To defer consideration of V-7715, application submitted by Merlin Hamm Construction Company for a variance to Section 8.10.3A.48 of the Zoning Ordinance to establish Northwood Drive as an officially approved place, until a special Board of Adjustment meeting on November 16, 1977 at 5:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers. 4. To defer consideration of V-7714, application submitted by W. E. and Patricia Eckhardt, et al. for an interpretation of the provisions of Sections 8.10.32, 8.10.40.1, et seq., 8.10.23, and 8.10.25(C) of the Zoning Ordinance with respect to a proposed development on a tract of land located at 333 East Church Street, until a special meeting to be held on November 16, 1977 at 5:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers. Board members requested Legal Staff assistance in addressing some of the points raised at the meeting. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: Chairman Goedken called the meeting to order and asked if there were any additions or corrections to the minutes of the meeting held on October 12, 1977. The minutes were unanimously approved as written. V-7712 Review of an application submitted by Iowa State Bank and Trust Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.18 of the Zoning Ordinance to alter an existing Andy McKean, Legal Intern, stated that the Staff recommended denial of the variance request. The applicant failed to satisfy the unnecessary hardship test, he said, and the Board of Adjustment lacks the authority to grant a variance in the absence of such a showing. A motion was made by Fowles, seconded by Conlin, to deny V-7712, application submitted by Iowa State Bank and Trust Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.18 yis3 0 -2- of the Zoning Ordinance to alter an existing non -conforming sign at 102 South Clinton Street, on the basis that the applicant failed to prove an unnecessary hardship. A vote was taken: Conlin -yes; Fowles -yes; Goedken-yes. The variance was denied. V-7713. Review of an application submitted by Advance Sign Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.7A.1 of the Zoning Ordinance to permit a sign to be placed within Don Schmeiser, Senior Planner, gave an overlay presentation and briefly explained the nature of the proposal. The matter was deferred at the last meeting, he said, because there was some confusion about the wording of the Sign Ordinance. The Staff has agreed, he said, that the requirements of the Cl Zone do apply to signs permitted in an M1 Zone and Iowa State Bank and Trust would be required to obtain a variance from the Board of Adjustment. Alan Katz, representative of the Advance Sign Company, stated that the variance was requested to permit a sign to be placed within a five (5) foot setback from the property line. The sign would not extend over the property line, he said, and would be at the "far end" of the lot. The dimensions of the proposed sign would be 6' 8" x 10' which would exceed the 50 -square foot limitation. Board member Conlin questioned whether the sign could be located further back from the property line. There would be sufficient visability, Katz said, if the sign is behind the property line. The only other place the sign could be located is in the present location but the sign would then overhang public property. Some other alternative is preferred, Katz said. Mr. Katz explained that Kerr-McGee Corporation has a national identification program and the signs are of a standard size. There are a variety of pole signs, he said, but the size of the signs have been standardized for the purpose of more easily obtaining replacement parts. In order for the sign to be read, it must be perpendicular to Gilbert Street, Katz said. Fowles noted that the sign sub- stantially exceeds the minimum size limitation as defined in the Sign Ordinance. It would be approximately 30% over that allowed by the Sign Ordinance, she said. Goedken questioned whether the sign would be in conformity if it were set back. McKean stated that the sign would be non -conforming because it was too large, however, that fact was not brought to the attention of the Staff prior to the Board of Adjustment meeting. Katz stated that the application for a variance had indicated their intention to install a sign 8' 6" x 10' although it was perhaps unclear as noted on the application. Schmeiser stated that the notation regarding the size of the sign had been inadvertently overlooked on the application and a notice of public hearing would have to be published on the area of the sign since the earlier public hearing notice was only for the setback of the sign. Tony Kushnir, Assistant City Attorney, stated that the Board had the option of making a determination about that part of the variance which was published. Schmeiser noted that a decision on one aspect of the sign might make a decision on the other "redundant." Goedken questioned whether the present sign is conforming. Mr. Katz said the present sign is non -conforming and would have to come down. 0 -3- A motion was made by Conlin, seconded by Fowles, to deny V-7713, application submitted by Advance Sign Company for a variance in Section 8.10.35.7A.1 of the Zoning Ordinance to permit a sign to be placed within a five (5) foot setback from the property line, on the basis that the application did not prove an unnecessary hardship. A vote was taken: Conlin -yes; Fowles -yes; Goedken-yes. The variance was denied. Mr. Katz requested that the City Staff publish a notice of public hearing regarding the size of the proposed sign. V-7715. Public hearing on an application submitted by Merlin Hamm Construction Company for a variance to Section 8.10.3A.48 of the Zoning Ordinance to establi Schmeiser and McKean outlined the Staff's findings regarding the requested variance and stated that the Staff recommended that the variance be granted. Because of the requirement that a lot must front upon a public street, the applicant is deprived of a reasonable return for his land unless a variance is granted to make Northwood Drive an officially approved place, McKean said. The applicant intends to construct two single family dwellings on lots fronting on Northwood Drive, he explained. Mr. Tom Lyon, attorney representing the Merlin Hamm Construction Company, stated that an agreement had been executed that any damage to the road during the construction process would be paid by the Merlin Hamm Construction Company. lie urged the Board's favorable consideration of the request and pointed out that the proposed development would increase rather than decrease the value of adjacent properties. W. H. Bartley, attorney representing Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fitch, stated that his clients were neither for nor against the requested variance, however, they wished to obtain additional information about the subject request. Bartley said he had never before seen a plat that indicated Northwood Drive. It was not an uncommon procedure several years ago for land to be surveyed and a plat recorded, he said, but platting procedures were not followed. Bartley indicated that there had been problems with street maintenance in the subject area and the addition of new homes would aggravate street maintenance, parking problems, and water drainage problems. lie suggested the possibility of property owners in the area forming "some sort of organization to take on maintenance of the street." Bartley thought the City should take the initiative in solving water problems. David Poula, attorney representing seven neighbors in the subject area, read the following statement: We do not oppose the building of those houses on Northwood Drive that conform to the building code of the area. However, we were not aware of the steps necessary to obtain building permits for said lots and none of us knew of this meeting until the notice was posted Friday afternoon, November 4, and the subsequent letter from City Hall received the 0 -4- 0 following Saturday morning. This did not give us access to legal documents or advice until Monday morning, November 7. Our attorney, David 11. Poula, has received verbal commitment from Jay llonohan, attorney for Merlin Hamm Construction,concerning maintenance of Northwood Drive. We request a delay in granting the adjustment to permit further communication with Mr. Hamm and consideration of written proposals concerning the road. Poula asked the Board to defer action to permit time for further communication between the applicant and the surrounding property owners. Goedken asked Poula if he felt the City had not provided adequate notification of the public hearing. Paula responded that he was not objecting on a legal basis but requested additional time for communication purposes. One property owner (name and address unknown) expressed concern regarding potential sewer problems and questioned whether the street would be wide enough to permit fire truck maneuverability. Schmeiser noted that the street is wide enough to permit fire truck accessibility. A motion was made by Fowles, seconded by Conlin, to defer consideration of V-7715, application submitted by Merlin Hamm Construction Company. Schmeiser stated that the Staff had no objection to holding a special meeting within 15 days. Lyon pointed out that the proposed development was "not cheap real estate and Merlin Hamm should not be required to solve all the problems of the neighborhood." He expressed concern that any delay is costly and prevents the applicant from utilizing his property to the fullest extent allowed by law. Kushnir pointed out the possibility of the Board attaching conditions to a variance. Conlin and Fowles withdrew their motion. Schmeiser suggested that the Board consider as a condition of a variance the requirement that the status of officially approved places be granted only for the existing lots and not for the resubdivision of more lots than presently exist, i.e., granting the variance would not allow the resubdivision of two lots into three lots. A motion was made by Conlin, seconded by Fowles, to approve V-7715, application submitted by Merlin Hamm Construction Company for a variance to Section 8.10.3A.48 of the Zoning Ordinance to establish Northwood Drive as an officially approved place, with the following stipulations: (1) that the variance applies only to the two existing lots and not to any further resubdivision of the area, and (2) that the applicant and the property owners with frontage on Northwood Drive work out a suitable maintenance agreement for the right-of-way to the satisfaction of the City. Lyon asked what would happen if one property owner would disagree to the terms of the agreement. Conlin responded that the City would be the arbitrator. -5- Kushnir thought the City could not arbitrate such an agreement and suggested that the decision is the responsibility of the Board. Any conditions attached to the granting of a variance should be very specific, he said. Lyon also pointed out that such a procedure regarding a maintenance agreement would be costly for the applicant. A motion to amend the original motion was made by Conlin, seconded by Fowles, that approval of V-7715 be contingent upon: (1) that the variance applies only to the two existing lots and not to any further resubdivision of the area, and (2) that the applicant and the property owners with frontage on Northwood Drive work out a suitable maintenance agreement. Schmeiser suggested that the maintenance agreement already established by the applicant could be attached to the motion. The agreement should be for perpetuity, he said. James Kerr, 1335 Oaklawn, stated that he owns property on Northwood Drive, and thought that a deferral of consideration until the next Board meeting would be in the best interests of all concerned. Maintenance agreements have been tried in the past and were unsuccessful, he said, so the variance request now provides a good opportunity to make sure that a maintenance agreement is handled properly. Kushnir noted that the Legal Staff had not previously been approached regarding the problems of the neighborhood. Conlin and Fowles withdrew their motion. A motion was made by Fowles, seconded by Conlin, to defer consideration of V-7715, application submitted by Merlin Hamm Construction Company for a variance to Section 8.10.3A.48 of the Zoning Ordinance to establish Northwood Drive as an officially approved place, until a special Board of Adjustment meeting on November 16, 1977 at 5:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers. A vote was taken: Conlin -yes; Fowles -yes; Goedken-yes. The motion carried. Angie Ryan, Assistant City Attorney and one of the authors of the November 9th Staff Report, briefly outlined the Staff's analysis of the subject application. Bruce Washburn, attorney representing the appellants, stated that the primary issue was whether or not a building permit should have been issued for the property at 333 E. Church Street. The Board is not bound by the opinions of the City's Legal Staff, he said. Washburn indicated that a public hearing date was set before the building permit was issued. Ile pointed out that no other 15 -unit apartment buildings exist in the immediate neighborhood. Ryan noted that extensive research was done prior to the adoption of the moratorium ordinance and all the proper procedures were followed. The Staff maintains that the moratorium ordinance is an interim ordinance which is unique and was not -6 - previously contemplated. Ityan said that Section 8.10.32.1) of the Zoning Ordinance was not applicable to the subject case. Dale Sanderson, attorney representing Schintler Brothers, said that all the moratorium did was to suspend the issuance of building permits; it did not contemplate a change in use. It is not proper at this time to argue the desir- ability of apartments in an R3A Zone. The building permit was requested on September 26th and was issued on September 29th, Sanderson said, and the public hearing was held on October 11th. Washburn noted that the City Council met on September 27th and set the public hearing date at that time. James Harris, 219 Ronalds, stated that the appellants were not suggesting that Schintler Brothers acted improperly, but that the City did not correctly interpret the Zoning Ordinance. If the apartment building at 333 G. Church is allowed, then the moratorium does not preserve the status quo but alters the status quo, Harris said. Conlin questioned whether the proposed 15 -unit apartment building conforms to the zoning regulations of the Zoning Ordinance. Ryan responded that the apartment building is conforming. Glenn Siders, Building Inspector, stated that in an R3AZone, a 20' front yard setback must be provided. However, the Zoning Ordinance states that there are some exceptions to this rule, i.e., Section 8.10.23.C. The front yard requirement may be established on the basis of buildings within the block which existed prior to August 7, 1962. The requirements apply to both yards of the subject property since it is a corner lot, Siders said. Along the Gilbert Street frontage between Church and Fairchild Streets, there are three buildings which existed prior to 1962 and have a setback of 8' 211, 5' 011, and 11' 411, respectively. Since the building furthest from the street is not more than ten feet deeper than the building closest to the street, the front yard is established as an average of the existing front yards. The average setback in this case is 812". Schintler Brothers propose to provide a setback of 8' 2" from Gilbert Street. Washburn questioned whether 40% of the frontage was covered by buildings on August 7, 1962. Siders said he didn't automatically assume that there was 40% coverage. lie noted that the contractor is bound by law to provide accurate information. Jim Schintler, President of Schintler Brothers, pointed out that there are two existing houses on Gilbert Street and one on Fairchild Street. The three properties add up to more than 128' of lot frontage which puts the builders in the 1140% lot frontage category" of Section 8.10.23.C.3, he said. McCormick questioned whether porches of the existing houses should be counted in determining 40% lot frontage. He added that at one time he was told that front porches could not be counted. Pat Mead (spelling unknown), 823 Ronalds, said she was confused as to where the measurement for lot frontage was taken. Siders said lie measured to the porch, not to the foundation. All the lots were developed prior to 1962, he said. Two houses located on Fairchild Street are national historic buildings, Siders said, and pointed out that the newest house was built in 1910. Ryan noted that the Staff interpreted the Zoning Ordinance to mean 40% of the lots that are developed, not vacant lots. 0 0 -7- Washburn thought there was a lack of evidence for 40% of lot frontage and thought the "burden of proof" should be on the applicants. Ryan said that when someone appeals a decision, the burden of proof is on the appellants. Washburn said the proposed apartment building would violate two provisions of the Tree Ordinance: (1) a landscaped aisle or island should be located between the parking area and alley, and (2) the provision for landscaped aisles and islands between parking areas and buildings should apply to buildings on adjacent property. McCormick took issue with the Staff's contention that an alley is a public thorough- fare which affords only a secondary means of access to abutting property. It is a primary access, McCormick said, and should be considered as a driveway. "Would the City make no attempt to screen a grocery store, i.e., Eagle's Supermarket, from the alley?" McCormick asked. If the City would not, it would represent a distortion of the intent of the Tree Ordinance, he said. Sanderson pointed out that if the Tree Ordinance would have meant screening an alley, it would have spelled this out. If there is a problem in the Ordinance, it should be handled with an amendment, he said. David Schaal, 511 N. Gilbert, stated that Dennis R. Kraft, Director of the Department of Community Development, wrote to the awards editor of a magazine called "Urban Design" and entered and subsequently won an award for the City's Tree Ordinance. "Surely the real intent of the Tree Ordinance is beyond question," Schaal said. Ralph Neuzil, attorney also representing Schintler Brothers, stated that Mr. Kraft had approved the November 9th Staff Report and would not have done so had he felt the applicants were violating the Tree Ordinance. Goedken questioned whether the building was in the process of being erected. The Staff noted that the contractor had agreed with the City Council to go ahead and erect the footings and foundation. Neuzil stated that Schintler Brothers had honored their agreement and said they had agreed not to continue with any construction until the Board of Adjustment had convened. "Schintler Brothers stopped until today," Neuzil said. Goedken suggested that the Board defer consideration until the next Board meeting. Schmeiser thought the Board should address the disputed location of a lot line. Washburn alleged that a one -foot strip between a fence and the property line had been lost by acquiescence. Schintler Brothers do not own all the property shown on their proposed plans," Washburn said. Sanderson agreed with the City Staff that District Court is the appropriate forum to settle a boundary dispute. Siders noted that in the R3A Zone, 1000 square feet of land is required per dwelling unit. Schintler Brothers have 15,000 square feet of land, he said. McCormick stated that the "lot has been gerrymandered just to squeeze in parking spaces." Fowles inquired as to the setback of the building that was torn down. "Shouldn't that building have been computed in the setback?" she asked. Schmeiser responded that once a house is demolished, it becomes a vacant lot. Fowles said that not taking into consideration the 20' setback would appear to perpetuate a non- conforming status. Schmeiser thought the philosophical view was correct, however, taking into consideration a 20' setback would make every house in the block non- conforming. Ryan said she didn't believe it was the intent of the Zoning Ordinance to make "most of the houses non -conforming." Kushnir stated that the setback requirement was to protect the remaining structures. The requirement is to average out lot frontages so that eventually houses will be located within the same general area. Schaal asked whether aesthetics were ever taken into consideration. The proposed apartment building does not fit in aesthetically with the neighborhood, he said. Conlin asked what would happen if all three existing houses had been torn down. The contractors would have to comply with a 20' setback, Siders said. "What would happen if you tore down two houses and left one?" Conlin asked. Siders responded that the 20' setback requirement would have to be met. Kushnir noted that if the builders proceed with construction, they would do so at their own risk. A motion was made by Conlin, seconded by Fowles, to defer consideration of V-7714, application submitted by W. E. and Patricia Eckhardt, et al., until a special meeting to be held on November 16, 1977 at 5:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers. Board members requested Legal Staff assistance in addressing some of the points raised at the meeting. A vote was taken: Conlin -yes; Fowles -yes; Goedken-yes. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned. Prepared bl Approved by F77 MINUTES • RESOURCES CONSERMON COMMISSION NOVEMBER 8, 1977 4:30 P.M. CIVIC CENTER CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Dague, Denniger, Hotka, Stager. STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Berlin, Kraft, Vann, Geshwiler, Tinklenberg. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTIONS TAKEN Denniger called the meeting to order and requested staffinember Tinklenberg to record the minutes in the absence of John Houck, RCC Secretary. Hotka moved, Stager seconded, that the minutes of the October 25, 1977, meeting be approved. Approved unanimously. Dague moved, Stager seconded, that the Resources Conservation Commission (RCC) approve the insert of the Iowa City Transit announcement concerning evening bus service into the "Energy and You" flier. Approved unanimously. Denniger raised the question of staffing for the RCC after December when staffinember Tinklenberg will be finishing his program. Neal Berlin, City Manager, said he would take the question up with the City Council. Stager moved, Hotka seconded, that the RCC request the City Manager name staffinember Tinklenberg as the interim Resources Coordinator as described in the attached job description, in order to avoid further confusion as what occurred concerning the budget. Approved unanimously. Budget Julie Vann, Block Grant Program Coordinator, outlined the budgeting process for the Block Grant funds. After further discussion Dague moved, Stager seconded, that the RCC request $6000 for Public Education Awareness, $14,000 for Heat Loss Identification, and $5000 for staff and office supplies for FY78; that the unspent $25,000, remaining after the expenditure of $25,000 of the total $50,000 allocated for FY78, be carried over into FY79; that an additional $40,000 be allocated for FY79, bringing the total FY79 budget to $65,000; and that Chairman Denniger represent the RCC in making this budget request. Approved unanimously. Ener Flier lier Stager moved, Dague seconded, that the RCC approve the "Energy and You" flier to go to the printer. Approved unanimously. to Rick Geshwiler, Sr. Planner, reported that fifty copies of the flier would be sent as a compliment to the companies which contributed to make the bumper sticker possible. This was agreed on by the Commissioners. yisy • -Z- • Chairperson Denniger thanked Geshwiler for all the work he put into the flier and the good job that he and the Planning Staff did on it. Energy Conservation Week Denniger reported that the schools will support Energy Conservation Week but will not conduct a poster contest at this time. Tinklenberg reported that he had tentatively arranged for two slide programs from the Iowa Energy Policy Council. Also the Iowa City Public Library has set up a display table and window and a shelf of material concerning energy conservation. Staff was directed to get advertisements out to the media, and arrange interviews on talk shows for Denniger concerning the RCC and energy conservation. Hotka reported that he had reserved a window at the Iowa -Illinois Gas and Electric Washington Street office. He was requested to set up an insulation display in the window. RECYCLING PILOT PROJECT Tinklenberg reported that the survey letter and card had been mailed out and that the program was scehduled to begin when the weekly newspaper pickup would begin. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN This was postponed until the next meeting so that the staff can report to the RCC on what exactly is expected of them concerning it. The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Roger Tinklenberg, Acting Secretary.