HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-03-23 Bd Comm minutesFINAL/APPROVED
CITIZENS POLICE REVIEW BOARD '-03-2T_ 9—
MINUTES — February 10, 2015 3b(1)
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Melissa Jensen called the meeting to order at 5:31 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Fidencio Martinez, Mazahir Salih, (5:38 P.M.), Joseph Treloar
MEMBERS ABSENT: Royceann Porter
STAFF PRESENT: Staff Kellie Tuttle and Patrick Ford
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Lieutenant Troy Kelsay of the ICPD; Marian Karr, City Clerk
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
(1) Accept CPRB Report on Complaint #14-10
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Martinez, to adopt the consent calendar as presented or
amended.
• Minutes of the meeting on 12/03/14
• Minutes of the meeting on 12/08/14
• Minutes of the meeting on 12/29/14
• ICPD Department Memo #15-01 (November 2014 Use of Force Review)
• ICPD Use of Force Report — November 2014
• ICPD Department Memo #15-04 (December 2014 Use of Force Review)
• ICPD Use of Force Report — December 2014
• ICPD Memorandum (Quarterly Summary Report IAIR/CPRB, 4rd Quarter 2014)
Motion carried, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent.
OLD BUSINESS
Discussion of proposed CPRB name change by Charter Review Commission — Karr reported
at the Charter Review meeting that morning they voted to approve the name change from
"citizen" to "community", and requested the CPRB provide a response to the name change.
Karr outlined the process after the Charter Review Commission makes the recommendation to
Council. Jensen stated that she liked "community" better than the earlier suggestion of
"resident" but had concerns that "community" implied community policing. Treloar liked
"community" because it sounds like an extension of the community policing process which he
is an advocate of. Salih and Martinez agreed to the change.
Motion by Salih, seconded by Martinez, supporting the suggestion to change the name from
Citizen Police Review Board to Community Police Review Board and directing the City Clerk to
report back to the Charter Review Commission. Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent.
Karr also extended the invitation to the Charter Review Forum on February 24th at 6:30pm in
Emma J. Harvat Hall for anyone who is interested.
CPRB
February 10, 2015
Page 2
NEW BUSINESS
Community Forum — The Board discussed dates, time, and location for the next annual
community forum. They liked that the Library was centrally located and close to bus services.
It was agreed that the forum would be held at the Iowa City Public Library in Room A on April
28th at 6:00 PM. Topics/presentations for the forum were considered and will be discussed
further at the next meeting. Tuttle is going to check on the status of the CPRB video for a
possible use at the forum.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
BOARD INFORMATION
Jensen would like to see two items placed on the next meeting agenda. The first is
Responsibilities of Board Members and the second is Video review process.
STAFF INFORMATION
Ford reminded the Board of their obligation as Board members to maintain confidentiality.
Anything related to a complaint such as reports, audio or video are confidential and should not
be discussed outside of executive session. Even after a complaint is finished members cannot
discuss the name of the complainant, the officer, or any details. The only thing public is the
report that submitted to City Council.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Salih, seconded by Martinez to adjourn into Executive Session based on Section
21.5(1)(a) of the Code of Iowa to review or discuss records which are required or authorized by
state or federal law to be kept confidential or to be kept confidential as a condition for that
government body's possession or continued receipt of federal funds, and 22.7(11) personal
information in confidential personnel records of public bodies including but not limited to cities,
boards of supervisors and school districts, and 22-7(5) police officer investigative reports,
except where disclosure is authorized elsewhere in the Code; and 22.7(18) Communications
not required by law, rule or procedure that are made to a government body or to any of its
employees by identified persons outside of government, to the extent that the government
body receiving those communications from such persons outside of government could
reasonably believe that those persons would be discouraged from making them to that
government body if they were available for general public examination.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent. Open session adjourned at 6:01 P.M.
REGULAR SESSION
Returned to open session at 6:06 P.M.
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Martinez to dismiss CPRB Complaint #14-10 and forward the
Public Report to City Council.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent.
CPRB
February 10, 2015
Page 3
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subiect to change)
• March 10, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• April 14, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• April 28, 2015, 6:00 PM, , IC Library, Room A, Community Forum
• May 12, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• June 9, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Salih to add the April 28th Community Forum to the Calendar.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter Absent.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion for adjournment by Treloar, seconded by Salih.
Motion carried, 4/0, Porter absent.
Meeting adjourned at 6:08 P.M.
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CPRS REPORT OF SUMMARY DISMISSAL TO THE CITY
COUNCIL,
Complaint CPRB ##14-10, filed December 23, 2014, was summarily
dismissed as required by the city Code, Section 8-8-3 E, requiring that only those
complaints which do not involve the conduct of an Iowa City sworn police officer
may be subject to summary dismissal by the board.
DATED: February 10, 2015
IJ
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DEPARTMENT MEMO #15-08
TO: Chief Hargadine
FROM: Captain Douglas S. Hart
RE: January 2015 Use of Force Review
DATE: February 28, 2015
The "Use of Force Review Committee" met on February 26, 2015. It was composed of Captain
Hart, Sgt. Gaarde and Investigator Kevin Bailey.
For the review of submitted reports in January, 21 Officers were involved in 15 separate
incidents requiring use of force.
All issues or concerns were identified and addressed at previous levels of review. Of the
incidents reviewed for this period: on one occasion a Taser was deployed, on one occasion a
Taser was displayed, on one occasion OC was deployed, there was no SRT call outs where
officers displayed assigned weapons, in four other incidents officers responded to calls where
their firearm was displayed. Of the 21 incidents 2 suspects was injured and no Officers were
injured as a result.
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Copy: City Manager, CPRB, Watch Commanders, Review Committee
Mob
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
Use of Force Report
January 2015
Officer
Date
Inc #
Incident
Force Used
11,65
01/01
2015000001
Intoxicated
He subject tried pulling away when he
Subject
was being placed under arrest.
Compliance methods were used to take
the subject into custody.
18
01/01
2015000001
Intoxicated
The brother of the above subject tried to
Subject
intervene into the arrest process. The
officer held this subject against a wall as
he tried to pull away.
11,10,2,
01/01
2015000020
Intoxicated
Subject became assaultive when being
55,41
Subject
placed under arrest by striking at
officers. A takedown technique was
used and wrist lock to allow for custody.
The subject had to be manually placed in
the squad car.
97
01/03
2015000090
Intoxicated
The suspect, already in handcuffs, tried
Subject
to pull away from the officer forcefully
and kick the officer. The officer directed
the subject to the ground.
15,2
01/03
2015000092
Fight In
The supect took off running after being
Progress
involved in a fight. A takedown
technique was used to affect custody.
The subject then grabbed the officer and
tried to throw him to the side whereupon
the officer delivered one close hand
strike to prevent further escalation.
18,54,5
01/18
2015000539
OWI
Officers had to physically place the
5
subjects hand behind her back for cuffing
after being told repeatedly to sit down
during OWI processing. The subject
later kicked one officer whereupon the
officers held her against a squad car until
she calmed down.
52,40
01/19
2015000558
Domestic
The subject struggled with offiMrs when
he decided he wanted t 'speaC� with his
girlfriend. One officer disp[zye"is tas &
as another directed thg 6jeptto to!t:
round to be taken hUcustod . y
o,
1
23,66
01/23
2015000746
Arrest Warrant
The subject was being placed under
arrest for an arrest warrant and took off
running. A takedown method was used
and the subject resisted arrest. OC
spray was used. One officer sustained
scratches and scapes during the
incident.
8,63,5
01/27
2015000884
Search
Sidearms were displayed during the
Warrant
securing of a residence during a search
warrant.
45,48,8
01/27
2015000884
Search
Sidearms were displayed during the
7,37
Warrant
securing of a residence during a search
warrant.
45,27,1
01/28
2015000915
Search
Sidearms were displayed during the
4,8,
Warrant
securing of a residence during a search
91,87,6
warrant.
1
15,32,9
01/28
2015000935
Theft Call
The suspect had been found with a knife
on his person. Upon being placed under
arrest, the subject refused to comply with
officer commands and was directed the
round with a takedown method.
62
01/28
2015000948
Intoxicated
A wrist lock was used to take the suspect
Driver
into custody after he began to pull away/
48
01/30
2015000987
Search
Subject placed in handcuffs upon serving
Warrant
the search warrant.
10
01/31
2015001022
Intoxicated
The subject was held against a wall while
Subject
being placed under arrest as he tried
pulling away several times.
POLICE CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD
OFFICE CONTACTS
February 2015
Date Description
2-19 Man called requesting a complaint form.
Charter Review Commission 3b(2)
March 3, 2015 -
Page 1
MINUTES FINAL
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
MARCH 3, 2015 — 7:45 A.M.
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
Members Present: Steve Atkins (via phone), Andy Chappell, Karen Kubby, Mark Schantz
(via phone), Melvin Shaw, Anna Moyers -Stone, Adam Sullivan (arrived
7:55), Dee Vanderhoef
Members Absent: Karrie Craig
Staff Present: Eleanor Dilkes, Marian Karr
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Chappell called the meeting to order at 7:45 A.M.
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
a. Minutes of the Meetings on 02/24115— Chappell welcomed everyone to the
meeting, noting that there are five Members present in person and two (Schantz
and Atkins) participating via phone. He then asked if there were any corrections to
either set of minutes. Kubby noted that on page 1 of the 2/24/15 morning meeting it
states "3,600 signatures and note 2,500" instead of "not 2,500."
Vanderhoef moved to adopt the Consent Calendar as amended. Shaw seconded the
motion. The motion carried 7-0, Sullivan and Craig absent.
REPORTS FROM MEMBERS AND STAFF:
Karr noted that Council just received correspondence from Judith Pfohl regarding the Charter
Commission review process and distributed a copy for their information. She stated that
although it was addressed to Council, she thought it might be helpful to the Commission as they
complete their review.
DISCUSSION OF THIRD PUBLIC FORUM and REVIEW RED -LINE VERSION CHARTER:
Chappell then began a discussion of the public forum recently held. He noted that Members
have a copy of Craig's proposal in their meeting packet regarding initiative and referendum
signatures. Chappell asked if any of the Members will be unable to attend the Commission's
meeting scheduled for March 9. Shaw noted that he is scheduled for a hearing in Scott County
that day, but that he has asked for a continuation and hopes to be at the meeting. Chappell
stated that either they can discuss Craig's proposal at today's meeting or they can wait until the
9m He noted that they need to wrap things up so they may want to go ahead and start the
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 2
discussion today. Chappell asked if anyone had anything in particular from the public forum that
they would like to discuss.
Chappell then spoke to Dilkes' memo regarding the conflict of interest issue. He stated that he
does not believe this is something they need to add to the Charter, that the State Code
adequately covers it. Members discussed the issue, asking if there aren't regularly scheduled
reviews of City policies. Dilkes noted that they are talking about several issues actually and that
many of them are not policies but are State Code provisions. She noted that there is no regular
review schedule, but that policies are often reviewed as issues arise. She questioned if
requiring annual reviews, in this case, would be helpful or not. Karr and Dilkes noted that
Council Members are presented information about conflict of interest issues during their
orientation process, and that they tend to be very diligent about conflicts, even perceived
conflicts. Dilkes further explained how the Council handles these matters and responded to
Members' questions regarding such. Kubby asked if anyone is interested in having some type
of generic statement added to the Charter on this issue. Sullivan stated that while he thinks it
may be a good idea, that since they are this far along in the process he would prefer that they
not add this at this time. He added that he would have liked more feedback and wishes the
issue had been raised sooner. Kubby countered with the thought that this is then saying since
they did not hear overwhelming comment on it that they shouldn't consider it. Sullivan stated
that without more input from the public, he would not be in favor of this at this time.
Moyers -Stone said that while she really appreciated Ms. Murphy bringing the issue up, Dilkes'
memo helped to alleviate much of her concern about the issue. Kubby stated that she sees this
as important, that it is a vital part of the local government in terms of value. Shaw asked where
in the Charter something like this would go. Kubby responded that most likely it would be under
Article 2, City Council. She stated that Terms' might be the best section, by adding a new 2.05.
Chappell then asked if there was interest by the Commission to adding a reference to this issue,
in the report, as one of those issues that was discussed but not formally recommended. Karr
then clarified when the orientation process occurs, that it is held as a 'body,' not on an
'individual' basis, and she further explained an orientation is held after each election (every two
years). Kubby asked if anyone else would be interested in adding a piece to the Charter on this
issue and no other Members expressed interest.
Chappell then moved to the Preamble, noting that they did receive some comments on this
section at the forum. He asked if there was any desire by Members to reconsider the Preamble,
specifically the first # 1 — "that the government of Iowa City belongs to all of its citizens and all
share the responsibility for it." Others noted what they took away from the conversation at the
forum regarding this, noting that the new version is more 'legal' sounding in nature. Kubby
stated that she would be open to going back to the original version, or in replacing the red -lined
#1 with the original #1. Sullivan noted that he thought the language could be inserted prior to
the second sentence of the intro paragraph — "By this action we assert that the government of
Iowa City belongs to all its residents and adopt the following principles:...", but that he is also
receptive to Kubby's suggestion. He did not find anything wrong with the original Preamble, as
Kubby also stated. Shaw noted that his recollection of this is different, that Schantz created this
new Preamble, as the group wanted it to reflect a participatory form of government in the City of
Iowa City. He noted that Schantz presented them with three different versions, back in August
and September, and that the group spent an adequate amount of time on it. He is not for
gutting the Preamble as it is currently written, as they had a particular reason for making such
changes to begin with. However, Shaw stated that he is not opposed to adding the former #1,
but that he thinks the 'resident participation on an inclusive basis and democratic self
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 3
government is really at the heart of why they spent a fair amount of time discussing it. He
believes it would be a disappointment at this point in the process to just get rid of it.
Sullivan agreed, stating that he believes this to be a good defense for the new Preamble.
Chappell asked if anyone truly wants to go back to the original version, and Kubby stated that
she believes the original has a more 'grassroots flavor' to it. She added that she is not opposed
to the new version, that she supported it to begin with. Chappell then asked who, besides
Kubby, wants to go back as opposed to making changes to the new Preamble. No one
responded. He then asked if Members are interested in working on the red -lined Preamble,
perhaps using Sullivan's suggestion. Chappell suggested: 'We the people of Iowa City ... State
of Iowa ... the principle of self-determination, acknowledge that the government of Iowa City
belongs to all of its residents, and all share the responsibility for it, and do hereby adopt this
Charter and confer upon...' Members discussed Chappell's suggestions, agreeing that 'affirm'
sounds better. Dilkes suggested 'proclaim' might work in this instance. After some discussion,
Members agreed to the use of 'proclaim,' and inserting it between 'hereby' and 'adopt' — " do
hereby proclaim that the government of Iowa City belongs to all of its residents, and all share
the responsibility for it, and do hereby adopt..." Dilkes suggested that 'proclaim' go at the very
beginning - ..., proclaim... and do hereby adopt.' After continued discussion, Members agreed
to this change — "We the people of the City of Iowa City pursuant to the Constitution and
Statutes of the State of Iowa, and the principle of self-determination, proclaim that the
government of Iowa City belongs to all of its residents and all share the responsibility for it. We
hereby adopt this Charter and confer upon it the full Home Rule powers of a Charter City...."
Schantz explained why the change was made here to begin with, questioning in what sense the
government belongs to its citizens. He added that it is about participation, not ownership.
Sullivan moved to accept the wording
"We the people of the City of Iowa City pursuant to the Constitution and Statutes
of the State of Iowa, and the principle of self-determination, proclaim that the
government of Iowa City belongs to all of its residents and all share the
responsibility for it. We hereby adopt this Charter and confer upon it the full
Home Rule powers of a Charter City...."
for the Preamble as discussed. Kubby seconded the motion. The motion carried 7-1,
Schantz in the negative and Craig absent.
Next the issue of 'true districts' was discussed. Kubby stated she believes true districts will
increase the diversity of candidates and will change some of the political strategies of a race.
She clarified her belief having three 'true districts' and a majority (four) of at -large will give more
diversity to the candidate pool. Members began to discuss this proposal, asking Kubby to
further explain her reasoning behind these ideas. Sullivan stated that he agrees it would
change elections and would most likely bring a larger candidate pool. Chappell noted that they
did get some feedback at the forum on this issue, but that most of what they heard was nothing
new. He personally was not swayed by any of the arguments given. Chappell continued to
explain why he is not necessarily in favor of having 'true districts,' stating that he does not see
the need for this at this time. Kubby again shared her reasoning behind wanting to make a
change here, noting that it may take two or three cycles before change is seen but that she
believes it can. Shaw spoke to how this type of arrangement may become a self-fulfilling
prophecy.
The discussion continued, with Sullivan stating that he believes they would see districts where a
group of people inside that district may be able to sway a district race, where they would not be
able to do this with a citywide race. He added that he does believe that in a district set-up,
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 4
people feel that their vote matters more and that it can give residents in that district more buy -in.
Shaw stated that though there is some merit to what Sullivan is saying, he questioned their
timeframe in changing course at this time. He spoke to how the Charter is currently worded
"The Council shall divide the City into three council districts of substantially equal population..."
and questioned if they have time to do this if true districts were considered. Kubby stated that
she had previously suggested language of what would change, and that the only other thing that
would need to change is that the mayoral selection would need to be from the at -large
candidates versus a district. Vanderhoef spoke to this issue, stating that she cannot recall
many, if any, issues that didn't affect the entire city, versus just a district. Sullivan stated that
this is probably because they have been electing at -large. Vanderhoef responded that she does
not necessarily agree with this. She spoke to the strength of the neighborhood associations in
each part of the city and how these collectively bring issues of importance to the Council's
attention. Sullivan stated that he does not believe there is a perception that the neighborhood
associations are actually representative of their communities. He added that he does not even
know who his neighborhood representative is. He stated that the council, on the other hand, is
perceived as having a lot of power over the way the City government works.
Kubby then spoke to the graph that they were given by Martha Hampel, speaking about the
numbers when it comes to how many people actually vote. She stated that if the goal is
increased participation perhaps they should be open to changing their structure of government,
in order to see if this is the issue. Kubby added that when the next Charter Review Commission
convenes in 10 years, they can review this voter participation trend and see if there are
changes. Shaw stated that what appears to be implicit in Kubby's proposal is that if there were
a diverse number of candidates, then voter participation would increase. He questioned if voter
participation may be reflective of the issues, or of someone's inclination to vote, or even other
factors altogether. Kubby again stated that if they make no changes, they can expect no
changes, and that she believes the change may be a good thing. Members continued to
discuss this issue, with the majority believing that the current set-up of four at -large and three
district seats is still best. Chappell asked Atkins and Schantz if they had anything to add to the
discussion. Schantz responded that he believes it's really too late in the process for them to
start making changes here, first of all. He stated that he has not been swayed thus far, but that
obtaining more data on voter participation would be helpful. Schantz stated that he would most
likely not support this. Atkins asked what was proposed in the last red -line version, and it was
noted that no change was suggested for this. He asked for some clarification on what is being
proposed now. Atkins stated that he really sees no need for change at this time, that the current
system is good. Kubby moved to change to true districts, using her proposed language,
and also that the mayor be selected from amongst the at -large candidates. Sullivan
seconded the motion. The motion failed 2-6; Kubby and Sullivan in the positive, Craig
absent.
Chappell asked the Commission how they would like to proceed from here. Karr asked Atkins
and Schantz if they would be participating electronically in the March 9th meeting. Both stated
that they would be participating electronically again. Shaw stated that if he is unable to attend in
person, he will definitely participate electronically for as long as he is able. Members then
spoke to Craig's proposal, with Chappell stating that he is not comfortable with it. He stated that
the number has been the same, first of all, for 40 years, but that he agrees it should be higher,
especially if increasing the number of people who can participate in the process. He added that
he knows of no other city that allows just 'eligible' residents to sign such petitions. The 3,600
being proposed was, in his opinion, a compromise between those wanting to lower the number
and those wanting to raise the number from the original 2,500. Chappell noted that he would
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 5
not put a percentage amount in the Charter language that having just the required number of
signatures works here. He asked how others feel about this issue. Kubby stated that she would
support a motion to have it be a number and to not have it ratcheted up based on population.
Sullivan stated that they need to remember that the Census takes place each decade, and the
Charter Review Commission reconvenes each decade, and if changes are needed at that time
due to population changes, the next Commission can address this. Shaw stated that he is
leaning towards increasing this number to 3,600 and he explained the reasoning behind his
decision. He added that he would encourage everyone to be more participatory in elections, but
that he does not believe that increasing this number to 3,600 would be that much more difficult.
In response to questions, Dilkes stated she will address in a memo, State Code Section 362.4,
stating that initiative and referendum is an addressed as part of the City's home rule authority
and is not part of state law, as had been discussed on previous occasions. Shaw stated that
public perception is that this number was just 'grabbed out of a hat,' with no thoughtful debate
given. Kubby asked if Shaw is open to having it be just the flat 3,600 without the formula, and
he agreed he would be. Moyers -Stone stated that she had nothing to add, and Chappell asked
both Atkins and Schantz if they did. Schantz stated that his position has been that they
basically want to increase participation. He added that he would be agreeable to the 3,600 as
he sees it tied to the 'qualified' versus 'eligible' issue.
Members continued to debate the issue of whether to make a change from the red -lined version
and have just the 3,600 number without the formula. Moyers -Stone stated that the advantage of
having a flat number would be that people would know exactly what the required number of
signatures is, versus having to know what a certain percentage of the city's population is at the
time they begin a petition. Vanderhoef stated that as long as this Commission has in their
minutes how they arrived at this number, the next Commission can use that rationale in their
debate. Chappell stated that he does not personally want to leave the impression that there
was any great science behind how they arrived at this number. He added that it was a
compromise arrived at after a debate where some wanted to lower the number, some wanted a
much higher number, and some wanted to change at all. The 3,600 number was one that five
Members could agree to. Sullivan moved to set the number of required signatures for
initiative and referendum at 3,600, and strip the language connecting that number to the
U.S. Census, Section 7.03A. Shaw seconded the motion. The motion carried 8-0, Craig
absent. Sullivan added that he would support a lower number, but that he made the motion in
the interest of compromise. Vanderhoef suggested a note in the summary report that this
number be reviewed at each 10 -year review. Chappell stated that he will make the changes
from today's discussions to both the report and to the red -lined version.
REVIEW DRAFT REPORT OF THE COMMISSION:
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Martha Hampel addressed the commission, stating that she originally had a lot to say about the
increased number of signatures but that she would withhold her comments as she doubts it
would change anything. She added that she does not want to see this number increase.
Hampel stated that what she is more concerned about is that in contacting the Auditor's office
she was told that Dee Vanderhoef is not even a registered voter. Karr noted that she is, under
the name of Karen. Vanderhoef added that her legal name is Karen. Hampel stated that she
was surprised to hear this, and questioned Vanderhoef's use of 'Dee' in official types of
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 6
situations. After a brief discussion about Vanderhoef's appointment on the Commission, Kubby
added that the Council appoints members to the Commission, that they do not appoint
themselves in this situation. Hampel stated that the reason this was even an issue was that
there were Members of the Commission who were 'judging and being very critical' of those not
registered to vote.
Caroline Dieterle stated that she was surprised to hear Kubby say the Council can appoint
people to this Commission whether they're registered to vote or not. Kubby stated that that is
what she said, but her understanding is that appointments are not predicated on registration
status. Dieterle stated that if this is true, the very body that is overseeing this entire process and
speaking to the validity of signatures is being brought forward by a body that does not
necessarily have to be registered to vote itself. She added that she finds this absurd and that it
is really quite 'dumb.' Shaw stated that this is not true.
TENTATIVE THREE-MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (7:45 AM unless speciireal):
March 9 — Chappell stated the Commission would vote on red -lined version; and vote on
final report. Chappell asked Members to get any last-minute changes in as soon as
possible so they can be considered at this meeting. Schantz stated that in regards to
the Commission's final report, he would like to suggest under'selection of the mayor'
that the language from the guide be used, that it is an issue of increasing the ability of
the mayor to lead. The most important idea behind election of the mayor, according to
Schantz, would be to improve the ability of the mayor to be a leader, and he asked that
language to this effect be added.
March 24 (if needed)
(Commission work completed no later than April 1, 2015)
ADJOURNMENT:
Shaw moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:25 A.M., seconded by Sullivan. Motion carried
8-0, Craig absent.
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 7
Charter Review Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
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X
X
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X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Steve
E
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Craig
Karen
4/1/15
O
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
O/
X
O/
X
X
Schantz
E
E
E
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
Moyers
E
E
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
E
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
Charter Review Commission
March 3, 2015
Page 8
Charter Review Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD (cont.)
2014/2015
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
0
0
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Steve
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Craig
Karen
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
4/1/15
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
Schantz
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Moyers
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
O
X
X
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
CITY OF IOWA CITY 3b(3)
MEMORANDUM -
Date:
March 17, 2015
To:
Mayor and City Council
From:
Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
Re:
Recommendation from Charter Review Commission
At their March 9, 2015 meeting the Charter Review Commission made the following
recommendation to the City Council:
Accept recommendations contained in final report submitted March 9th and contained in City
Council Information Packet of March 12.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action — after April 7 work session
S:RECform.doc
Charter Review Commission
March 9, 2015
Page 1
MINUTES FINAL
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION (approved electronically)
MARCH 9, 2015 — 7:45 A.M.
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
Members Present: Steve Atkins (via phone), Andy Chappell, Karrie Craig, Karen Kubby,
Melvin Shaw, Anna Moyers -Stone, Adam Sullivan (via phone), Dee
Vanderhoef
Members Absent: Mark Schantz
Staff Present: Eleanor Dilkes, Marian Karr
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
Accept recommendations contained in final report submitted March 9th and contained in City
Council Information Packet of March 12.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Chappell called the meeting to order at 7:50 A.M. Chappell noted that they have
been unable to contact Schantz and therefore he will not be participating electronically.
CONSIDER MOTION ADOPTING CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED:
a. Minutes of the Meeting on 03/03/15 —Chappell asked if there were any changes.
Kubby stated that on page 4, second paragraph where there is a motion, it states
that `Kubby moved to change to two districts,' and it should state 'true districts' here.
Kubby moved to adopt the Consent Calendar as amended. Vanderhoef seconded the
motion. The motion carried 8-0, Schantz absent.
REPORTS FROM MEMBERS AND STAFF:
Chappell noted that Members received a memo from Dilkes in their meeting packet regarding
Initiative and Referendum Petition Requirements / Iowa Code Section 362.4.
DISCUSSION AND VOTE ON RED -LINE VERSION CHARTER:
Chappell asked if everyone had had a chance to review the latest changes to the Charter
document. Kubby asked if they had ever heard back from the CPRB on the name change
issue. Karr and Chappell stated that they did hear back. Chappell added that they did not
receive an official report. Karr reported that she had attended the CPRB's last meeting and
they unanimously voted to accept the recommended name change to 'Community Police
Review Board.'
Kubby noted that on page 14, under 7.03, that there appears to be a missing period '.' after
3,600. Chappell stated that it is now after the deleted 'qualified electors.' Chappell asked if
Atkins or Sullivan had anything to add. Hearing none, Chappell asked for a motion. Sullivan
asked if Dilkes or Karr could review what the Council's next steps are. Dilkes stated that this
Charter Review Commission
March 9, 2015
Page 2
will be on the April 7 work session agenda, and that the Council then has two options — to adopt
the changes by ordinance or to put them on the ballot for the public to decide. Sullivan asked
which ballot is being referred to, and Dilkes clarified that it would be this fall's ballot, should the
Council decide to proceed in that manner. Kubby stated that she believes the red -lined version
really reflects the majority of their discussions, and for the changes they are making, she agrees
with everything but the increase to 3,600. She would prefer to be at 2,500. She also stated that
she believes they missed some opportunities to promote change. She believes if they don't
make fundamental changes, they won't fundamentally change. However, Kubby stated that she
is a bit disappointed in this as it would be good for the community. Vanderhoef stated that she
was disappointed that they did not have unanimous decisions on their work, but that she
understands it was the best that they could come up with together. She believes that more
change at this point would be a bit too much and she would have been in favor of keeping the
Charter as it was. Chappell added that he understands that the decisions they have reached
have been a product of compromise. He believes they have worked together well to
compromise and come up with what they have. Chappell added that he has thoroughly enjoyed
the process they have gone through, and he thanked everyone for their hard work in this effort.
Sullivan added that he also is not 100% happy with the recommendations, but that he will
support the red -lined version. He also encouraged everyone to participate in these processes
and to have more robust conversations next time around. Chappell noted that he will attend the
meeting on April 7th, as Chair of the Commission, noting that any comments he makes to
Council will be in support of the report and the draft, and not in relation to any of his personal
viewpoints. Karr noted that the April 7 work session is an open meeting and she encouraged
other Members to attend as well. Shaw added that he also sees what they have produced as a
compromise, but that one thing clear to him is the work that needs to be done with voter
participation. He stated that while the desires of some may not have been reached in these
changes, there is still work that the community can do to encourage voter participation. This
can then encourage changes. Shaw moved to approve the red -lined version and
recommend those changes in the Charter to the City Council. Atkins seconded the
motion. The motion carried 8-0, Schantz absent.
DISCUSSION AND VOTE ON REPORT OF THE COMMISSION:
Chappell stated that he found something on page 3, the first full paragraph. He suggested they
change the sentence that starts with "That ratio ....." to just say, 'That ratio 5.33% was then
applied to the current Iowa City population as determined by the latest U.S. decennial Census.
This proposed change appears in Section 7.03A.' and remove two sentences "The actual
number does not appear...." and The methodology is, ..." from the report. Members discussed
the sentences in question here, noting that this is how they came up with the 2,500 number.
Chappell stated that he struggled with this when he wrote the report initially, because this is how
the number was reached. The number itself was a product of compromise. Others stated that
perhaps they should leave this in the report so that the next Charter Review Commission
understands how the number was arrived at. Chappell suggested the sentence 'That number
was reached by taking the ratio of required....' change to read, 'That number, though a product
of compromise, was reached by taking...". Dilkes suggested changing the word 'reached,' to
'was supported by, or'was confirmed by' instead. Kubby stated that she does like having the
word 'compromise' in here, as it truly was a compromise among the group. Members continued
to discuss the compromise issue, with Dilkes suggesting, 'The number was reached by
compromise, as well as by examining the...' as her recollection was that it was a 'compromised
number.' Additional support for the number was then found in the calculations that Karr
provided. Kubby suggested, 'The number was reached by compromise, supported by taking the
Charter Review Commission
March 9, 2015
Page 3
ratio of the required number of signatures...'. Dilkes suggested adding 'and, after 'compromise.'
Members agreed to the above discussed changed. Kubby moved to adopt the report as
amended. Vanderhoef seconded the motion. The motion carried 8-0, Schantz absent.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
None.
TENTATIVE THREE-MONTH MEETING SCHEDULE (7:45 AM unless specified):
March 24 (not needed) — Chappell stated that it appears they do not need this meeting.
He added that he will be hosting a social gathering, after April 1, and more information
will follow. Kubby asked if they could receive an email regarding the April 7 meeting and
what can be expected after this time. Karr will do this and will also be sending out a
draft of the minutes so that they can be electronically approved, and presented to
Council along with the Commission's report. Vanderhoef thanked the City Clerk and City
Attorney for their work during the Commission's tenure.
ADJOURNMENT:
Kubby moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 A.M., seconded by Vanderhoef. Motion
carried 8-0, Schantz absent.
Charter Review Commission
March 9, 2015
Page 4
Charter Review Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2014
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
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X
X
X
X
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Steve
E
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Craig
Karen
4/1/15
O
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
O/
X
O/
X
X
Schantz
E
E
E
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
Moyers
E
E
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
E
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
Charter Review Commission
March 9, 2015
Page 5
Charter Review Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD (cont.)
2014/2015
Key.,
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
TERM
N
o
0
0
o
N
N
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CD
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X
X
X
X
X
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X
X
Steve
Atkins
Andy
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chappell
Karrie
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/
X
Craig
E
Karen
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Kubby
Mark
4/1/15
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/
Schantz
E
O/E
E
Melvin
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Shaw
Anna
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
O/
X
X
X
X
X
X
Moyers
E
Stone
Adam
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sullivan
Dee
4/1/15
X
X
X
X
O
X
X
X
X
X
X
Vanderhoef
Key.,
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member at this time
3wmn�
MINUTES APPROVED
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 12, 2015
EMMA HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Kent Ackerson, Thomas Agran, Gosia Clore, Kate Corcoran,
Andrew Litton, Pam Michaud, Ben Sandell, Ginalie Swaim
MEMBERS ABSENT: Esther Baker, Frank Durham, Frank Wagner
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo
OTHERS PRESENT: Alicia Trimble
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (become effective only after separate Council action)
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Swaim called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
DISCUSSION OF POTENTIAL HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE NORTH
CLINTON/DUBUQUE STREET DISTRICT AND THE CIVIC DISTRICT:
Miklo provided an overview of the properties in the North Clinton/Dubuque District. He showed
photos of each building. He summarized the historic survey forms for certain buildings. He
pointed out the buildings located in the Jefferson Street Historic District that are already
protected. He identified properties that are owned by the University of Iowa and are therefore
exempt from the Commission's jurisdiction. He said that other than those properties only the
Sanxay Gilmore House at 109 Market appears to meet the criteria for listing on the National
Register of Historic Places.
Corcoran said, regarding properties close to the University and/or downtown, there is a lot of
encroachment from the north with the big, new apartment buildings. She asked who the
Commission felt about trying to preserve those properties. Swaim said she does not think those
buildings are strong enough architecturally to be designated as landmarks. She said there are
examples of that kind of building in the North Side. Swaim said those buildings tell a story, but
might not meet the standard in terms of meeting broader themes in Iowa City history. Ackerson
agreed that they were not of sufficient historic value to pursue designation. Michaud compared
these to the houses in Mount Vernon near Cornell College, but these are not as architecturally
as significant and the Commission has to choose its battles.
Miklo asked Commission members, after having reviewed the packet material, if there is a
consensus that 109 Market, the Sanxay-Gilmore House, is a property for which the Commission
would want to pursue landmark designation or work with the owner to try to get it listed on the
National Register. Swaim said it was built in the 1850s, quite early, and is a well preserved
example of the architecture of that period.
MOTION: Corcoran moved that the Commission designate 109 East Market Street as a
property for which the Commission respectfully recommends that the Planning and
Zoning Commission consider and review for special attention for preservation. Sandell
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Baker, Durham, and Wanner
absent).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 2 of 13
Miklo said the Civic District starts at the alley north of Iowa Avenue on the north side, down to
Burlington Street on the south side, Gilbert Street on the west side and then over to roughly
mid -block between Van Buren and Johnson Streets on the east side. He pointed out some
specific properties on the aerial photograph, including the Civic Center, the Unitarian Church,
the State Historical Society Building, the New Pioneer Co-op, The University of Iowa Community
Credit Union, the recent building on Washington Street, Chauncey Swan parking ramp, and the
Recreation Center.
Miklo said this area was studied extensively by the Commission a number of years ago (mid-
1990s). He said that all of the properties in the area were surveyed, with the exception of those
on the south side of Iowa Avenue. Miklo said that as a result of that survey, the College Street
Survey, the Commission identified two historic districts: the College Hill Historic District, which
is on the National Register and is also a local historic district, and the East College District.
Miklo said that same survey identified the potential for some conservation districts. He said the
Commission did implement the College Hill Conservation District, which went beyond this
boundary and went up Iowa Avenue starting at Johnson Street.
Miklo said there was some discussion of having a conservation district on Washington Street.
He said the Commission at the time decided not to make it a conservation district. Given the
curren question he advised the commission to keep in mind that this area was reviewed for
potential designation, and the Commission did come to some conclusions and implemented
some districts as a result, but chose not to include most properties west of Johnson Street.
Miklo said the State Historical Society Building is a more modern building. In that same block
he said the survey indicates that 410 Iowa Avenue, owned by United Action for Youth (UAY),
has architectural merit and may be eligible just based on that. Miklo said there is a rather large
addition on the back that does lessen its integrity but was done somewhat sympathetically.
Miklo said the survey form from 422 Iowa Avenue, also owned by UAY, says that this has
architectural merit. He said that unlike some of the other buildings eligible for the National
Register, other than architecture, there weren't other factors making these eligible for the
National Register. Miklo said he spoke with Marlys Svendsen, the consultant who did the
survey, and asked her whether these really rose to the level of being on the National Register
eligible. He said Svendsen reminded him that buildings that are listed on the National Register
for architectural purposes encompass the one sort of building one can move without losing its
National Register status. Miklo said that if a building is listed because of its history or
association with an historic figure, moving the building usually disqualifies it for the National
Register.
Miklo stated that 430 Iowa Avenue and 500 Iowa Avenue are both modern buildings. Miklo said
that 505 Iowa Avenue was built as a sorority house. He said the building was not surveyed but
thought this is a building that would be worth delving into regarding its history. Miklo said the
other several buildings down Iowa Avenue have been remodeled to such an extent that they
don't have the integrity to be eligible for the National Register. Miklo said that 523 Iowa Avenue
has had some remodeling but still has some integrity. He said this one would need more
research to determine if it is individually eligible.
Miklo said that 520 Washington Street was actually moved onto this site when the credit union
was built. He said there are more modern buildings across the street.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 3 of 13
Regarding College Street, Miklo referred to a more contemporary building and a building that
was extensively remodeled as not eligible. He said that 505 and 507 College Street were also
extensively remodeled and are therefore not individually eligible. Miklo said the survey there
indicated there might be potential for a conservation district here, but given that there are only
two such buildings on that part of the street with any historic integrity remaining, he felt that
would not be worth pursuing.
Regarding Burlington Street, Miklo said there are obviously some modern buildings.
Miklo said that 10 South Gilbert Street is the one building that the historic site survey indicates is
individually eligible because of a number of criteria: architecturally, historically, and association
with important historic figures.
Miklo showed 18 North Van Buren Street, which was remodeled and does not have architectural
integrity, nor does 220 South Van Buren Street.
Miklo concluded that the one building in the area that is clearly eligible for the National Register
is the Unitarian Church. He said the draft planning document considered by the Planning and
Zoning Commission identified this as having historic merit and states there may be a role for the
City to play in helping preserve this building. Miklo said it is a fairly small piece of property, so it
may be difficult to do much with it, whether the building is there or removed. He said the City
owns the parking lot next door, so that may provide some possibilities for transferring
development rights in exchange for saving and reusing the building.
Miklo said it is clear the church congregation has decided to move. He said the question for the
community is what the building could be reused for another purpose.
Sandell asked Miklo to identify on the map where the contiguous, historically interesting
properties are located. Miklo said there are the two at 410 and 422 Iowa Avenue, but they are
booked in by modern buildings so are not something that would constitute a district. He said
505 Iowa Avenue has a building that, with some research, may be revealed to be National
Register eligible. Miklo said there is another property at 523 Iowa near the other end of that
block, but there are three buildings in the middle that would not be eligible. He said there is not
really a grouping that stands out.
Michaud asked why the south side of the 500 block of College Street has been disregarded.
Miklo responded that there are two buildings owned by the Mental Health Center that have
some historic merit, but that have been remodeled to such an extent that they are not
individually eligible for the National Register. The two buildings across the street are also not
eligible. Michaud asked if the other three or four on the block would not be considered at all.
Miklo answered that they are not within the study area and not within the Civic District that is
being considered by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Michaud said there are two that are adjacent that are original that are not part of College Hill.
She said that one house is an 1890 frame, front gable with original porch, and it has not been
well maintained. Michaud said the adjacent house is an 1880s brick house that is a five-plex
with some Italianate influence.
Miklo said that when the College Hill Historic District was established, the houses were left out
for some reason. Michaud said she thought it was because of the owners.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 4 of 13
Sandell said that when he walks down the street, he thinks there is a character there of historic
houses, whether they are within the district or not. He said there is a streetscape character
there, especially on the south side, and these houses contribute to that. He said that while the
line is drawn in the middle of the block, he could argue that that is the character of that
streetscape, and to take those two houses in particular and add them to the Civic District would
not seem to fit into the character.
Miklo said that is actually not the proposal. He said that east of Van Buren Street, those
properties would be incorporated into the Central Planning District. He said they are not being
proposed to being included in the Civic District.
Sandell asked Miklo to speak to the purpose of the redistricting of those particular houses on
that side of the street. Miklo replied that the Civic District is the area being looked at, because it
is an area that was not included in the recent downtown plan of the Central District Plan. He
said the actual proposal before the Planning and Zoning Commission is to add the three blocks
that are primarily owned by the City, with the exception of the Unitarian Church, into the
downtown district and add the area east of Van Buren Street and north of Iowa Avenue into the
Central Planning District. Miklo said there are no zone changes proposed at this time, but if the
City property ever redevelops the plan would indicate the area would be part of downtown and
appropriate for a downtown zoning district.
Swaim asked if the Commission is looking at both the Civic District and what the Commission
might recommend be called attention to as well as the addition to the Central Planning District.
Regarding the Civic District, Miklo replied that staff identified the area and called it the Civic
District, because it is primarily owned by the City. He said the plan before the Planning and
Zoning Commission would be to take the three blocks of the Civic District and add them to
downtown: everything west of Van Buren Street and south of Iowa Avenue.
Miklo said the other blocks would be added to the Central Planning District. Swaim asked if the
Commission is being asked to make a recommendation on those others on the outside. Miklo
responded that the status in the City plan for the other two that Michaud mentioned is staying
the same; it is not changing. He said staff is just using the word district as a label; it is not a
zoning district nor a historic district but is just a way to identify an area.
Miklo said that if the area is confirmed as being part of the downtown, that area has a different
set of goals for the area than the area to the east of Van Buren Street. He said those goals
were sent to the Commission in a previous packet.
Sandell asked what it would take for the Commission to include the south side of that block of
College Street into the College Hill Historic District. Miklo responded that it would be an
amendment to the district. He said the State Historic Preservation Office would need to be
consulted. Miklo said he thought it would be a tough sell as a district. He said the buildings to
be included would not be individually eligible because of remodeling, and the mental health
building would not, because of the loss of the porch character and the addition on the back.
Miklo said that if the concern is streetscape, that is a different concern than historic
preservation. Sandell said that for whatever reason the Commission did not consider these
buildings part of the neighborhood, he believes these contribute to the historic character in this
neighborhood. He said he feels it is important that the Commission look at these.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 5 of 13
Miklo said that if one looks at the criteria for a historic district, one of the thoughts is that
someone from the historic period would recognize this street as a street of their time if they
landed on this street today. He said that would be hard to argue for the this part of College
Street, given some of the remodeling and intrusions. Michaud said that the south side of the
street would be recognizable. Miklo pointed out that a streetscape encompasses both sides of
the street.
Michaud asked if a conservation district would work for this. Miklo said it would be a
conservation district of two to four buildings, and he would question putting into it the kind of
energy needed to establish it, given some of the other buildings the Commission is concerned
about.
Michaud said she understands limitations of time and resources and prioritizing, but she thought
there must be a way to work with the building and permits department so that when someone
decides to put in a four-story building, he doesn't automatically destroy the trees.
Miklo said this is an area that the Planning and Zoning Commission has identified that is a
concern to them in terms of the streetscape and the building mass in that they don't want to see
another block like 500 Washington Street. He said the current zoning would allow that sort of
building, so the Planning and Zoning Commission has asked staff to look at this very closely.
Miklo said there may be zoning changes that could be done here that would result in new
buildings fitting into the street better than what has happened on Washington Street. He said
the Planning and Zoning Commission is interested in whether the Historic Preservation
Commission feels this is historic or not. Miklo said that with these four buildings, there is just
not the integrity to make these part of the historic district. He said that doing some things
zoning -wise to make this a better streetscape is another avenue the Planning and Zoning
Commission could pursue.
Swaim said if the Historic Preservation Commission could recommend to the Planning and
Zoning Commission that that side of the street or the whole block could be considered for a
different zoning, one that would encourage maintaining the streetscape. Miklo said the
Commission's role is to say whether these buildings are historic enough that they warrant some
protection. Miklo said the Commission could go beyond that and say that if the area redevelops,
the Commission would like to see a better transition to the College Hill Historic District. He said
that would be a logical recommendation.
Swaim said, considering that older neighborhoods have been carved up and are in some cases
just individual or pairs of buildings that are still there, if there are ways the Commission can at
least have some input into other ways besides designation, even if it is going on record to the
Planning and Zoning Commission that this is important, it is worth the Commission's while to do
that.
Michaud said that, regarding massing, there has been a suggestion by several people that there
not be multiple buildings destroyed with one large building erected. She said that would kind of
control spacing between structures so that there would not be one mass or fagade. She said
that right now the zoning is CB -2, which allows a 45 -foot tall structure. Michaud said that if it
was just at least broken up into two or more rather than one building, it would really help.
Miklo said the Commission is being asked to consider the building stock in this area. He said
that clearly there is not enough for a historic district. Miklo said the Unitarian Church rises to be
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 6 of 13
individually eligible, and so consideration of that as a landmark in the future or efforts to try to
preserve it in some way would be a role for the Commission.
Clore asked if any of the other buildings are individually historically important. Miklo said that the
Commission is being asked to consider the building stock in this area and the need for
preservation. He said that there does not appear to be sufficient properties to constitute a
historic district. Clore asked if in addition to the Unitarian Church are there individual buildings
that are historic. Miklo stated that the two on 400 block of Iowa Avenue have architectural merit,
and there is not enough information about the two in the 500 block of Iowa Avenue so more
research would need to be done. He said the ones the Commission is discussing on College
Street are not individually eligible.
Ackerson said that the Civic District, that three -block area, is one single entity that the Planning
and Zoning Commission is going to be considering. He said it seems appropriate that the
Historic Preservation Commission formally state its opinion on the Unitarian Church building.
Ackerson said the Commission seems to generally be in consensus that it is worth
consideration as a historic building in and of itself.
Ackerson said the recommendations that the Commission might have on the rest of the property
east of that seem to revolve around discussions of buffer zones and things to smooth the
transition from the Central Business District to historic areas to the east.
Miklo said that sending the concern that the Historic Preservation Commission would like to see
a better transition is something that the Planning and Zoning Commission can then use to look
at the zoning rules and how that might be achieved in those areas, realizing that the individual
buildings are not being designated for preservation — that they might change over time but
hopefully any new buildings would fit in the neighborhood better.
Sandell asked, regarding the idea of the City pursing the Unitarian Church building for reuse, if
there are any other examples. Miklo said an indirect example might be the Englert, where the
City worked with a non-profit group to finance securing the building to preserve it as a theater.
He said there are many examples from other cities of such buildings being adaptively reused
including municipal purposes.
Swaim said the Unitarian Church could serve many purposes in the community. She said it has
architectural and historical significance and merit. Swaim hoped that the citizenry could
encourage the City to find a way to save this building which might involve the City buying this
building and work with other groups to find ways to reuse it. Michaud said it could be a great
City museum. There are examples of other museums in historic buildings.
Sandell asked if the two buildings on Iowa Avenue are being considered for being moved. Miklo
said that he did not know, but wanted to make the point that when a building is listed because of
its architectural merit, moving it does not necessary lead to its delisting. Michaud said she was
concerned about the loss of those two houses. Agran said that the Commission would not be
writing them off. He said they are of note, but whether or not they could be save through zoning
is not something they would be deciding.
Swaim asked if the Commission should first focus on the church since it is clearly historic.
Sandell agreed but would also like the Commission to somehow address the housed in the rest
of the surrounding area.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 7 of 13
MOTION; Corcoran moved that the Commission recognize that the Unitarian Church at
10 South Gilbert Street could qualify individually, on its own merits, for historic landmark
status and the Commission requests that the City give it special attention and explore
how the City might facilitate the preservation of this property and its use as a community
facility. Ackerson seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 8-0 (Baker,
Durham, and Wagner absent).
Corcoran said she would like to consider 410, 422, ...... Miklo said, regarding the four properties
on Iowa Avenue, that it is clear there are not enough of them to comprise an historic district. He
said the question is whether they rise to the level of being individual landmarks.
Ackerson said there are a lot of interesting structures in the area, but none of them seem to be
sufficiently extensive in area covered to be a district of their own. He said the Commission may
have an interest in making a smooth transition from downtown areas to outlying residential
areas, but he was not sure the Commission needs to get mired down in details about the
individual properties. Michaud asked if they should make a recommendation regarding spacing
and massing rather than identify individual landmarks.
Litton asked if making a smooth transition could be accomplished by down zoning. Miklo replied
that it could but that down zoning is very challenging, and the better approach might be to
amend the zoning regulations that apply to the current CB -2 zoning to result in a better form.
Miklo said the consensus of the Commission seems to be to encourage the Planning and
Zoning Commission to explore zoning tools such as setbacks, massing, and landscape
preservation to provide for a good transition to the College Green Historic District. He asked if
that is the essence of the Commissions direction. Swaim agreed but said it would not just be a
transition to College Green but also to the blocks surrounding on both sides.
Michaud asked if they should consider sticking with the original town plat 80 foot wide lots so
that properties are not joined to create larger lots and buildings. Michaud said the 400 block of
Iowa Avenue looks like a place where one could just put up a four-story building one block long.
She said even though it is a City property and a parking lot, it also has many locust trees that
keep it from looking like a parking lot. Michaud asked if the Commission would want to say
anything in general about those blocks and contrast what has happened on Washington Street.
Miklo responded that he thought that is the essence of what the Commission has been
discussing.
Swaim said she was referring to the streets that abut the current Civic District. Miklo asked if
the Commission is discussing everything except the three blocks west of Van Buren Street.
Sandell said it would refer to everything north of Iowa Avenue and east of Van Buren Street.
Ackerson said it is probably worth not leaving slivers — one or two buildings - of properties that
are between one district and another. He said the Commission should not put new artificial
boundaries into our maps. Swaim asked if Ackerson was thinking of a more general statement.
He said he thinks the recommendation should go from Gilbert Street to the College Hill Historic
District and the College Conservation District to the north, just so there are not little gaps.
Miklo asked if Ackerson's suggestion is to start at Gilbert Street versus Van Buren and Iowa.
Miklo pointed out the three blocks that the City primarily owns that don't have residential
structures or character or scale. Ackerson clarified that he does not want to include those
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 8 of 13
blocks in the broader recommendation. He said his concern is the area to the east and the
boundaries.
Michaud discussed limiting the commercial first floor that has been a jolt on Washington Street.
She said that mixed use is one thing, but having huge spaces that are unoccupied for decades
is another. Having restaurants that are open till 4:00 a.m. next to single family homes. Michaud
said that mixed use and multi use sound benign, but it's a way to get another bar on the block
on the first floor.
Swaim asked the Commission members if they wanted to send a recommendation that
sensitivity and attention be paid to areas east of Van Buren so that they maintain a sense of the
streetscape. She said that getting into the zoning is another issue.
Miklo summarized the Commission's discussion about the broader goals for the area east of
Van Buren Street and north of Iowa Avenue.
MOTION: Corcoran moved to encourage the Planning and Zoning Commission to
explore zoning tools regarding setbacks, massing, scale, and landscaping to provide for
a good transition to adjacent residential neighborhoods for the area east of Van Buren
Street and north of Iowa Avenue. Ackerson seconded the motion. The motion carried on
a vote of 8-0 (Baker, Durham, and Wagner absent).
Michaud said that what has been proposed to the Planning and Zoning Commission is three
high rises along Gilbert Street that are the same as the high rises downtown. She asked if there
should be a wall of high rises on Gilbert Street. Michaud said that the Planning and Zoning
Commission's reaction was very negative. She said that it is a transition zone, and things can't
go up in height when they're supposed to go down.
Miklo said that in his view the role of the Historic Preservation Commission is to identify historic
buildings and neighborhoods and pursue ways to protect them. It is the role of the Planning and
Zoning Commission to determine building heights. He said that other than the Unitarian
Church, the Commission is not talking about historic buildings in the three blocks that are owned
by the City. Swaim said that is something Commission members can look into as individual
members of the public, rather than as a Commission. Agran agreed that since it is outside of
the Commission's purview, it seems an appropriate thing that people who are interested
individually make their own recommendations.
DISCUSSION OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN PRIORITIES AND ANNUAL WORK
PROGRAM:
Swaim said that the document was. produced in 2007, and the Commission has looked at it
every year since. She suggested the Commission brainstorm for a few minutes, and then
perhaps a subcommittee could look at this and fine tune it and then make recommendations to
the full Commission. Swaim said she would like the Commission to put actual dates on items so
that things don't get pushed aside while more immediate items are considered.
Swaim said there are a variety of goals and objectives under every one of them. She said she
thinks it is critical that the Commission prioritize what it is doing and put its efforts toward. She
suggest focusing on a few things, even though they are all important. Swaim pointed out that
the Commission has limited resources.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 9 of 13
Miklo said that two years ago for the work program, the Commission identified Melrose Avenue
Historic District, Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District, and meeting with the University
to discuss preservation of properties on campus. He stated that the Goosetown/Horace Mann
Conservation District has been accomplished. Swaim added that restoration of the City Park
log cabins were also on the list.
Miklo said, regarding the Melrose District, that there was considerable discussion with the
neighborhood association and it was left it in their court as to whether to proceed or not. He
said he has not heard anything recently.
Swaim said she and Miklo had some meetings with their neighborhood board. She said there
was some interest at that time, but as often happens, it ran out of steam for a while. Swaim
added that the preferred method is for the nomination to come from the public rather than the
Commission. Swain questioned whether the Commission should pursue that district.
Miklo said that, given the Commission's level of resources, creating another large historic district
would make it difficult to staff and maintain it. He said that given the recent situation with the
Dubuque Street cottages, he felt there might be more benefit to the community to focus on key,
landmark properties, where the Commission is not adding a lot at once to its work program.
Miklo suggested identifying some key landmark buildings to work with the property owners and
hopefully nominate those.
Trimble, Director of Friends of Historic Preservation, said there has been a lot accomplished in
the past few years, including Goosetown/Horace Mann, Jefferson Street and several landmarks.
She said people may think the Commission and Friends are sitting idle because of the cottages
issue. Trimble said that perhaps the cottages could have been saved earlier, but it would have
been at a cost, because something would have had to be given up in terms of the other projects
completed in recent years.
Trimble said that what is in the list shows the priorities. She said the City has cut so much
funding for historic preservation. Trimble agreed that things should be prioritized but said she
would also like to see a list of everything that can be thought of so that the Commission can
show what it is still working on.
Miklo said that there are historic survey forms on many properties that are not included in
historic or conservation districts. He said that a lot of them are old and have a little historic
character but don't rise to the level of landmark status. Miklo said but there are a few out there,
such as 109 Market Street, that are real gems that are pretty vulnerable. He said that having
Commission members and volunteers go through all of those surveys to identify those
properties would be very helpful, to come up with a list of perhaps a dozen buildings that are
key standout buildings that are not in an historic district and are not protected. Miklo said the
full Commission could then discuss the properties and move to nominate them as landmarks.
Regarding the work program, Swaim said that Goosetown/Horace Mann Conservation District
has been completed. She said that the last two grant application for the log cabins, which were
made by Parks and Recreation, have been denied. Swaim said she is hopeful that the wording
can be reworked to apply again.
Regarding Melrose, Trimble said she would reach out to Jean to see how things are going.
Trimble said it does seem to be in the "bring it to the neighborhood" phase, so she thinks it
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 10 of 13
could be picked back up. Swaim said the Commission could play the role of having larger
neighborhood meetings to answer questions and such.
Swaim said there are buildings that are now over 50 years old that were not that old when
surveys were initially done. She said ranch houses are an example of that, and it might be
something the Commission would want to study for the long-term.
Michaud stated that Manville is more threatened than ranch -style houses. She said that in
Manville Heights, some developers are buying multiple properties, tearing them down, and
building duplexes. Michaud said that the Manville Heights residents might be more receptive to
a historic district at this point.
Trimble agreed that there might be renewed interest in that neighborhood right now. She said
that when it goes back into the neighborhood meeting phase, there might be some people who
step up to volunteer.
Trimble said that younger people seem to really want the mid-century modern architectural
features. Swaim said she doesn't see that as something that the Commission would put a lot of
time into, but if there is a community preservation commission somewhere that has started to
look at that issue, then the Commission could just communicate with them to check on the
progress. She said she doesn't see it as a major initiative.
Swaim asked if the process would be agreeable to people: to do a little more brainstorming for
major concerns and have a subcommittee to look at the details and provide recommendations.
Trimble said there would be a near South Side historic site survey available soon. There may
be s a small historic district or individual landmarks identified by the survey. Michaud said that
the cottages were not continuous with the railroad depot. She said that because there was a
modern building or two in between, they were overlooked. Michaud said the buildings were
isolated like some of the buildings discussed this evening.
Michaud agreed that things have to be prioritized. She asked, however, if there is a possibility
that, rather than a conservation district, there could be some kind of restrictions on the front
facades of buildings, such as she has seen in a neighborhood on the north side of Chicago.
Miklo said that a subcommittee would bring more focus to this. He said the list he has compiled
from tonight's discussion includes individual landmarks, Manville Heights, Melrose, and a
strategy to deal with mid-century modern buildings.
Trimble asked if there is a really good example of mid-century modern neighborhood. Corcoran
responded that the neighborhoods north of City High.
Ackerson, Corcoran, Sandell, Swaim, and Trimble volunteered to be on the subcommittee to
look at these items and provide recommendations to the full Commission. Swaim said she had
spoken to Baker, who is also willing to be on the committee.
Sandell asked if there was an update after the Commission's discussion on standing seam
metal roofs. Miklo would need to work with the Building Inspector to draft amendments.
Trimble said that one of the reasons there have been issues with specific properties is because
the City never filled Christina Kuecker's position when she left in 2011. Trimble said it might be
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 11 of 13
worth bringing up to the City Council that the Commission is short a staff who is devoted
primarily to historic preservation and is short all of its funding. She said it really slows down the
process, and it will make things more and more eleventh hour. Trimble said that if the City
Council doesn't want these situations to keep happening, then there has to be staff available.
She also recalled that when she was a commission member there was funding for
commissioners to attend educational programs.
Miklo said that the City is currently looking for someone to fill a part-time temporary position at
eight to twelve hours per week. He said it may be a challenge to find someone with the right
qualifications to work those few hours.
Swaim said she would draft a letter to the City Council regarding staffing and funding. She said
she would bring it to the next meeting for Commission consideration.
Trimble said the cottage issue really brought out a lot of people who seem to be willing to help,
some of whom are academics. She said that maybe at some point, volunteers can be
coordinated to do research on certain properties or to write a landmark application with the data
for surveys that are already done.
REPORT ON CERTIFICATES ISSUED BY CHAIR AND STAFF:
Miklo said there were two window replacements approved by staff and a modern window
replaced by a new window. Miklo said that in both cases the windows were in poor condition.
He then said he recently had another experience regarding replacement windows. He had
received a call from a board member of a sorority. She said they wanted to replace all of their
windows. He said he explained that the first step was to establish that they were in bad shape
and could not be repaired. Miklo said the board member insisted that they were all really bad
and leaky. He said they agreed to meet at the house to inspect the windows.
Miklo said that they met at the house with the general contractor and started to inspect
windows. He said the upon inspection they found that every one of them had been replaced
within the last 20 years. Some of the replacements were vinyl windows, others were wood with
metal cladding. The house mother complained how drafty the windows were in her apartment,
and the sorority members that were in their rooms when we inspected, also complained that the
windows were terrible. They had said they did not operate — would not open and close easily.
The contractor said they could not be repaired like a traditional window so they had to be
replaced again.
Miklo said he was relieved that he did not have to go through the process of educating them
about the value of retaining historic windows, but he observed it was unfortunate that they threw
away the original windows. He noted how this is an example of the short life span of
replacement windows.
Miklo asked if anyone had any corrections to the CLG report, but there were none.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES FOR JANUARY 8,2015:
MOTION: Corcoran moved to approve the minutes of the January 8, 2015 Historic Preservation
Commission meeting, as written. Agran seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of
8-0 (Baker, Durham, and Wagner absent).
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
February 12, 2015
Page 12 of 13
HISTORIC PRESERVATION INFORMATION.
Swaim stated that the awards program went very well. She said that Agran, Clore, Corcoran,
Trimble, and Bailey McClellan, the planning intern, did a great deal.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
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MINUTES APPROVED
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
DECEMBER 10, 2014
ROBERT A. LEE COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Suzanne Bentler, David Bourgeois Clay Claussen,
Maggie Elliott, Cara Hamann, Katie Jones, Lucie Laurian, Joe Younker
Members Absent: Larry Brown
Staff Present: Mike Moran, Chad Dyson, Zac Hall
Others Present: Allan Guymon, Temple Hiatt, Del Holland, Jase Humphry, Steve
Schuette
CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Claussen called the meeting to order at 5 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Two amendments to the November meeting minutes were requested. There was an
unidentified attendee at November meeting. Temple Hiatt with Iowa City Girls Softball
identified that person as John Smick. Second request was to change the word "goals" to
"changes" in the DogPAC section so that it now states "They will be discussing changes for
next year."
Moved by Elliott, seconded by Younker to approve the November 18, 2014 minutes as
amended. Motion passed 8-0 (Brown absent
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
Steve Schuette with Iowa City Girls Softball (ICGS) noted that their board met following the last
Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting. He confirmed that they understand that the City and
the Parks and Recreation Department are facing budget issues and that the Parks and Recreation
Department and Commission are gathering information about Napoleon Park and Iowa City
Girls Softball to see if there are any opportunities to ease the budget constraints. The
Commission will vote as nine members and make a recommendation to the City and then the
City Council will vote on that recommendation. ICGS wants to make sure that the Commission
knows that field usage charge, if levied, is likely to have a significant negative impact on the
program and especially for lower income families. Claussen noted that the Commission and
Department were directed by City Council to come up with a plan to deal with this in the event
of budget constraints which have been created by a state property tax reform.
Elliott said she remembers that the Affiliate Group Policy was first passed when she came on the
Commission in 2012 and at that time it was not related to a bond issue. Moran noted that the
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 2 of 10
policy was not enforced at that time due to an agreement to give credit for donations given by
affiliate groups. Schuette asked for clarification as to what is causing this review. Is it because
of budget constraints and if not, what exactly are we talking about? Why are we being asked to
gather this information? Claussen reminded ICGS that the Commission is having this same
discussion with all affiliate groups. Schuette said that they understand that, however, asked what
the directive was three years ago. Moran answered that three years ago the Commission changed
the policy regarding Dog Park revenue. At the time 95% of dog park revenue when to Johnson
County DogPAC. It was determined at that time to discontinue that policy. Now the revenue for
dog park tag sales comes to Parks and Recreation as the department was doing the majority of
the maintenance. It was determined then that perhaps other affiliate groups should be
contributing to maintenance costs as well. He explained that this time it is related to the property
tax reform. Elliott asked if this new directive came from City Manager 1. Moran answered yes.
Hiatt with ICGS then spoke. She said that ICGS did provide Dyson with follow-up on the
questions addressed to them such as outside residents and comparison fees with other
communities. Schuette noted that the group had some good discussion with Dyson the previous
night during their board meeting.
FRIENDS OF HICKORY HILL PARK:
No report. Moran said that there should be a new liaison assigned to the Commission and
that they should be present at the January meeting.
NEIGHBORHOOD OPEN SPACE REVIEW:
None
AFFILIATE GROUP DISCUSSION — IOWA CITY KICKERS SOCCER CLUB
Those present from Iowa City Kickers Soccer Club included the following: Allan Guyman
who has been on the board for 12 years and noted that he has been involved with a lot of
history and good experiences with the City. He served as president in the past but is now
the treasurer. Jace Humphry has been affiliated with the group for the past 13 years. Izaac
Warner, current president, has been on the board for 4 years.
Guyman began discussion by saying that there is a lot of history that went into the
development of the park between Kickers and the City. Kickers gave $300,000 towards the
development of the park. At one point Kickers and the City came close to writing a
Memorandum of Understanding that spelled out a number of rights that Kickers would
receive due to their contribution. This understanding stated that Kickers would always have
first rights of field use and that they would never be charged for their field use. However,
this MOM was never signed. He said that they understand that times change and that
budgets have to be met. He noted that while they are certainly not excited about the
possibility of having to pay for their field use, that they understand that it may have to be.
Kickers main concern is that they have invested money and made several donations to the
City and wanted to know how that was going to be reconciled beyond a thank you. In the
past when this proposal came up, they took some steps to help the City. They rescheduled
games and practices to allow for others to rent the fields. They scheduled all their games
on Saturdays to accommodate others. They said they are happy to think of other ways that
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 3 of 10
they and the City can work together and maintain the best relationship possible. Claussen
said that this is the kind of dialogue that the Commission is look for from the affiliate groups.
Younker asked Dyson how much it costs the City to run the soccer complex. Dyson stated
that the five year average is $100,000 per year. He also noted that revenue generated as
nearly doubled since Kickers have made their scheduling adjustments.
Claussen asked if Kickers received sponsorships. Humphry noted that they tried with
Scheels and others with mixed results. Guyman said that they have given approximately
160 scholarships with a total of 1200 participants. The cost is about $75-$80 per player for a
uniform and equipment. Claussen asked if they work with the schools. Humphry said that
they have incurred a major roadblock when it comes to getting information out through the
schools. They, therefore, use electronic notification, word of mouth, and the Virtual
Backpack, however, numbers continue to decline. Dyson said that the department is
working on a plan to get more information distributed through the schools. One idea is that
the Recreation Center creates a flyer in the spring and fall encompassing all of the groups'
information. Jones asked if the affiliate group information is in the Parks and Recreation
Program Guide. Dyson noted that while it is, more detailed information about the programs
could be added. Guyman said that Kickers is a little different in that they are supposed to
have all registration complete before school starts. Unfortunately they receive a lot of late
registrants as the first day of school may be the first time that parents have received any
information about the upcoming season. He further noted that the number of participants
from North Liberty and Coralville has dramatically declined.
Elliott suggested that perhaps other affiliate groups should also look at the rescheduling of
games etc. to assist in increased revenue. Dyson said that Boys Baseball has done this as
well in recent years.
Claussen asked if Kickers charges a non-resident fee. Guyman said that Kickers have been
working with Mike Gunn, who is an Iowa City Resident but is a soccer coach in West
Liberty. West Liberty contributes to Kickers and also includes the majority of the kids who
receive scholarships. They cannot charge a non-resident fee as these kids are already less
fortunate. This program has offered a positive experience for these kids and has improved
their lives. Fifty players a year go on to participate in high school soccer. Graduation rates
have improved and much of this can be contributed to the soccer program.
Humphry said he would like to avoid park usage fees as it will affect numbers of attendance.
However, he would like to help in finding other ways to increase revenue.
Hiatt with ICGS said that opening up fields to outside rentals would depend on the demand
by the organization. Weekdays may not be a problem but weekends would be challenging.
Hiatt also noted that they and Boys Baseball have also contributed to the City. She asked
why some affiliate groups have contracts with the City and others do not. Moran said that
there are no existing contracts. Younker said that if there were, it would not likely state that
if an organization raises a certain dollar amount that they would be excluded from paying
field usage fees.
Hiatt said she was very pleased with Dyson's mentioning of a possibility of forming a youth
sports coalition that would assist in a grant application process which in turn would help to
relieve financial pressures for these organizations.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 4 of 10
BUDGET REVIEW:
Moran distributed a department specific CIP list to the Commission. He also distributed a
revenue report that showed both history and projected revenue for the department. He
noted that some specific changes will include an increase in cemetery fees (there have
been no changes in these fees for 9 years). He also noted that shelter rental fees will
increase as well as the fees to rent The Park Lodge at the Terry Trueblood Recreation
Area. Dog park fees will increase as well.
Moran announced that due to budget constraints there will be some staff reorganization and
personnel layoffs. He noted that the department recently lost a 3/ time maintenance
position due to a retirement. Rather than replacing that person, the department is
contracting the services out. The department will also layoff two clerk typist positions.
These positions will be eliminated effective July 1 (with the new fiscal year). The department
has put a current opening in the Central Business District on hold because of potential
reorganization in that Division as well.
The department is considering contracting out the farmers market. Requests for Proposals
are due in January. At that time it will be determined if there is enough of a cost savings to
go through with this proposal.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Bourgeois nominated Clay Claussen to continue as Chairperson of the Parks and
Recreation Commission.
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Younker, to elect Clay Claussen as the
Chairperson for the Parks and Recreation Commission for 2015. Motion passed 8-0
(Brown absent).
Bourgeios nominated Joe Younker to continue as Vic -Chair of the Parks and Recreation
Commission.
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Bentler as the Vice -Chair of the Parks and Recreation
Commission for 2015. Motion passed 8-0 (Brown absent).
RECREATION DIVISION REPORT:
Winter Facility Project Update: Dyson reported that the construction of a wall around the
fitness area in the Recreation Center will begin this week. Other projects in the building
include upgrading of the pool lights and replacement of the shower heads in the locker
rooms.
Blue Zones Update: Dyson announced that City Hall and the Senior Center have been
designated Blue Zone Worksites. The City continues progress towards designating the
Library, Robert A. Lee Recreation Center, Mercer Park Aquatic Center, Cemetery and city
parks as Blue Zone Site. Jones noted that Cedar Rapids have changed their concession
offerings at fields to healthier options. Dyson noted that the Iowa City is looking to do the
same.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 5 of 10
Affiliate Groups: Claussen asked Dyson if he was asked to leave the Iowa City Girls Softball
meeting prior to its conclusion. Dyson confirmed that he was. He also noted that when he
requested a copy of their 2013 tax return information, they noted that while their accountant
advised them against it, they did in fact release a copy to Dyson. Younker, who is an
attorney, noted that their 990 form (nonprofit) is public information however; they do not
need to disclose their detailed accounting records.
Younker asked if the Commission should designate a deadline for proposals from affiliate
groups to be presented. Elliott asked for some clarification on the difference on what the
affiliate policy entails and she feels there is some confusion as to why we are reviewing the
policy and why we are more strongly pushing for its approval this time. Moran explained that
the policy currently states that they pay 10% of what their cost would have been if they were
charged the full rental fee for their use of the fields. Elliott said that she thinks that a
decision regarding the affiliate policy should be made soon after presentations conclude.
After Iowa City Eels Swim Club presents in January, staff will make any necessary changes
to the policy and bring back to Commission in February for a vote.
PARKS DIVISION REPORT:
Fencing at Napoleon Park: Hall noted that due to issues with overflow parking from
Napoleon Park, fencing has been placed around the area to better secure the Park Shop
building. He also said that they will be looking at expanding the fenced in storage lot that is
used for a holding area for surface materials used in the parks.
TTRA: Staff mowed down the prairie grass at The Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. They
will reseed this next season to keep the prairie grass process on track. Signs are in place to
notify the public.
Trail Maintenance: Hall announced that the department is trying a pilot program this winter
to encourage recreational activities on the trails as well as reduce park maintenance costs
spent on snow removal. City crews will remove snow only from those trails that are used by
commuters or that connect to schools and other essential areas of the city. The City will use
data from Strava Labs which helps to identify the most used trails. Strava Labs collects data
from 1500 registered trail users in Johnson County. They use a smartphone app or a GPS
to track their usage.
Elliott asked if the Parks staff is responsible for the snow removal for the small bridges over
the creek. Hall said that it depends where the bridge is located. In the past staff has
cleaned bridges that are connected to a trail system or near a park.
Hall also noted that in an effort to reduce maintenance costs, the department is reducing the
number of staff that are called in on the weekends by lessening the areas that will receive
snow removal. This will also eliminate the need for on-call pay and overtime wages. There
are two full-time staff that work on the weekends and it is believed that they will be able to
cover snow removal in the essential areas including the Central Business District and
bridges. Laurian asked if the department will consider designated no -mow areas as well.
Hall said that they will be investigating this option as well.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 6 of 10
DIRECTORS REPORT:
TTRA Marina/Winter Events: Moran noted that the marina building has been winterized and
that Fin & Feather staff are in the process of moving in the winter sports equipment that will
be offered for the public to rent.
Ashton House: Lights are up in the parking lot and hand rails are being installed in the
house.
Farmers Market: The second Holiday Market is scheduled for this weekend
Chadek Green: Moran has met with neighborhood members regarding this property and
they are happy that the City has purchased the property.
Park Signs: New park signs have been installed at Chadek Green, Creekside, Tower Court,
and Willow Creek Parks.
CHAIRS REPORT:
Claussen discussed an article that was published in the Press Citizen regarding the affiliate
fees. He stated that an editorial written and published in the Press Citizen gave a wrong
portrayal of what the Department and Commission are trying to do.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Laurian asked about sand prairie park boundaries. Moran noted that the north boundaries
are on the crop line. Laurian also noted that Jim Throgmorton has talked with her about
biodiversity in the City and that Council will be discussing this further in the future with
departments.
Laurian stated that she will discuss results of her class survey regarding park shelter fees at
the next meeting.
Elliott asked if there is still a strategic plan in place. Moran said that there is, however, it is
six years old and is in need of an update. He stated that he will get some fee estimates of
doing an update and get back to the Commission. Members agreed that a strategic plan is
very helpful in giving them direction.
Jones noted that she went to an American Public Health Meeting and that they mentioned
the edible forest and landscaping around the Recreation Center. Dyson will continue
working with Fred Meyer on the progress of this landscaping plan.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Elliott, to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 p.m_. Motion
passed 7-0 (Hamann and Jones absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
December 10, 2014
Page 7 of 10
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
v
a
v
a
r
000
O
N
Of
O
00
00
O
TERM
N
N
r
M
<o
r`
00
M
o
T-
N
T -
EXPIRES
Suzanne
1/1/17
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bentler
David
1/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Bourgeois
Larry
1/1/18
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Brown
Clay
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/17
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Elliott
Allison
1/1/14
X
Gnade
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Hamann
Katie
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Jones
Lucie
1/1/15
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Laurian
John
1/1/14
X
X
Westefeld
Joe
1/1/16
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
Younker
KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum
* = Not a member at this time
CITY OF IOWA CITY �
3b(6
MEMORANDUM 1=
Date: March 9, 2015
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Marcia Bollinger, Public Art Advisory Committee
Re: Recommendation from Public Art Advisory Committee
At their March 5, 2015 meeting the Public Art Advisory Committee approved the February 5
minutes with the following recommendation to the City Council:
Recommend to the Iowa City City Council to support the recommendation of the Artist Selection
Panel that artist Cecil Balmond of Balmond Studios, London, England be named as the artist
selected for the design of the public art piece to be located in the area known as the Black Hawk
Mini Park on the Iowa City Pedestrian Mall.
Additional action (check one)
No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
_X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action - Done
MINUTES APPROVED
PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2015
HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM — CITY HALL
Members present: John Engelbrecht, Mike Moran, Tam Bryk, Brent Westphal,
Sayuri Sasaki Hemann, Ron Knoche
Not present: Bill Nusser
Staff Present: Marcia Bollinger and Geoff Fruin
Public Present: Sean O'Harrow- UI Museum of Art, , Marc Moen and
Bobby Jett — Moen Group, Andy Davis- Iowa City Press
Citizen, and Ricardo Rangel Jr.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
Recommend to the Iowa City City Council to support the recommendation of the Artist
Selection Panel that artist Cecil Balmond of Balmond Studios, London, England be
named as the artist selected for the design of the public art piece to be located in the
area known as the Black Hawk Mini Park on the Iowa City Pedestrian Mall.
CALL TO ORDER
Meeting called to order at 3:30pm.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW MEMBER SAYURI SASAKI HEMANN
Engelbrecht asked the new member Sayuri Hemann to introduce herself to the group. She
stated that she moved from Portland but has lived in Iowa City for four years. She stated that
she strongly believes in the Public Art Program and the way it activates a space and engages
the public. She also stated that she is an artist and enjoys creating installations with textiles.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS- CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
Engelbrecht then turned the group's attention to the election of officers. He stated that he is
currently the Chair of the Committee and that Westphal is currently the Vice Chair. Engelbrecht
and Westphal stated that they would be willing to stay in their current positions. Bryk moved that
Engelbrecht stay as Chair and Westphal stay as Vice Chair. Moran seconded. Motion passed
6:0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
Engelbrecht then asked the public in attendance to introduce themselves. There was no public
comment of items not on the agenda.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 4TH, 2014 MEETING
Knoche stated that he had one correction to make to December meeting minutes. The minutes
stated that Fosse recommended that the bylaws be renewed every year but it should have
stated that they should be reviewed every year. MOTION: Moran moved to approve the
December 4th, 2014 meeting as amended. Westphal seconded. Motion passed 6:0.
RECOMMENDATION OF ARTISTS FOR DESIGN PHASE OF THE BLACK HAWK MINI PARK
ART PROJECT LOCATED ON THE PEDESTRIAN MALL
Engelbrecht then asked the group to discuss the recommendation for the design phase of the
Black Hawk Mini Park Art Project. Bollinger asked if they Committee had any questions or
comments regarding the memo that was distributed prior to the meeting. Hemann asked about
the process and what happens after the recommendation goes to the City Council to be
approved or disproved. Fruin stated that the Committee's recommendation today would be
selecting the artist who would work with Genus Landscape Architects to complete the design
component. Fruin stated that the City Council could override the Committee's recommendation
but he also stated that he thought that was highly unlikely. Bryk asked how the Committee's
recommendation will be presented to the City Council. Bollinger stated that the formal
recommendation will come through the minutes. Bryk stated that she would like this
recommendation to be a point on the City Council agenda to ensure a discussion occurs as a
Council agenda item. Fruin stated that there is an authorizing resolution that describes the
process and any additional information which is memorialized in City records. Fruin suggested
that Balmond's recommendation can be included as a separate item within the authorizing
resolution which was acceptable to Bryk. Engelbrecht asked for any additional comment on this
item. Bryk asked Hemann is she had a chance to attend the artist open houses. Hemann stated
that she was able to attend the open house for Balmond and watched the video for the other
two artists. She stated that she supports the Committee's recommendation of Cecil Balmond.
Bryk stated that she agreed. Engelbrecht then opened up the discussion and asked for public
comment. O'Harrow stated that he thought that the process was handled very well and that it
was one of the best that he had been a part of. He stated that he thought it was fair and
transparent. O'Harrow also stated that he was impressed with the quality of applicants. He
stated that they are some of the best artists in the world. Engelbrecht asked for a motion for a
recommendation to City Council.
MOTION: Bryk moved that the Committee support the subcommittee's recommendation
for Cecil Balmond and move forward to City Council. Westphal seconded. Motion passed
6:0.
CONTINUED DISCUSSION OF FURTHER PROJECTS- REVIEW OF AVAILABLE BUDGET,
COLLEGE GREEN PARK STAIRS ART MATCHING FUND CALL FOR PROPOSALS
Engelbrecht then asked the Committee to consider the next agenda item and discuss further
public art projects. Bollinger reviewed what had been discussed in previous meetings related to
this agenda item. Bollinger stated that Veronica Tessler had submitted an invoice for $2,000 for
the Yotopia mural. Bollinger stated that this is an example of matching funds projects that the
Committee could continue to sponsor. Bollinger stated that there was also discussion
surrounding stair art at College Green Park. She also stated that she had been in conversation
with Jill Harper who was the artist who worked on a number of mosaic art projects across the
city including the Grant Wood pillars. She provided an estimate for a mosaic installation of
$5000 for an art project on the steps. Engelbrecht stated that he was a big proponent of a
matching fund project. He stated that he thought that there were many artists out there that
have interesting ideas that the Committee could help fund if they like the project. Moran stated
that he was not a fan of the idea of mosaics on the stairs because it would deteriorate faster.
Bollinger stated that the Committee has $5,000 left and that she would like to know what they
want to prioritize. Engelbrecht asked what a call for artists would look like for matching funds.
The committee then discussed what a call for artists would look like. Hemann stated that she did
not think that a bottom funding limit would be necessary but that a maximum limit would be
helpful. Engelbrecht also asked whether or not they would help fund programs such as the
BenchMarks program or if they want to stick to individuals. Engelbrecht offered to spend some
more time on a subcommittee to develop a set of criteria. Bollinger stated that she thought that
was a good approach. Moran stated that one positive element is the caveat that regardless the
applications would have to come through this Committee to be approved and funded. Bollinger
asked if there was anyone else willing to be a part of the subcommittee. Hemann stated that she
would like to be a part of the committee. Bollinger stated that the subcommittee would develop a
call to bring for discussion at the March meeting. Bollinger then stated that they needed to
decide funding allocation with the current budget. The Committee agreed that they would like to
hold onto $1,000 for maintenance but that the other $4,000 would go to the matching fund call
that will be developed through the subcommittee. The Committee also agreed that they would
prefer to wait on the stairs project until next fiscal year.
UPDATES: POETRY IN PUBLIC & NEA OUR TOWN GRANT
Bollinger stated that submissions for Poetry in Public are flying in with the deadline approaching.
Bollinger stated that she needs a member to participate in the review committee to pick the
winners of program. Westphal stated that he would do it again this year unless someone else
would like to. Bollinger stated that the NEA —Our Town Grant application was submitted and it is
expected that decisions will be made this spring/early summer.
OTHER
No other news.
ADJOURNMENT
Knoche motioned and Moran seconded a motion to adjourn at 4:37 PM.
Minutes created by Ashley Zitzner.
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