HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-09-15 Bd Comm minutesCITY OF IOWA CITY 09
2
MEMORANDUM -
Date: 9/9/15
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Staff Member of Community Police Review Board
Re: Recommendation from Community Police Review Board
At their July 20, 2015 meeting the Community Police Review Board made the following
recommendation to the City Council:
(1) Accept CPRB FY15 Annual Report
(2) Accept CPRB Report on Complaint #15-02
Additional action (check one)
X No further action needed
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action
S:RECform.doc
FINAL/APPROVED
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
(formerly Citizens Police Review Board)
MINUTES — July 20, 2015
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Melissa Jensen called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Fidencio Martinez, Joseph Treloar
MEMBERS ABSENT: Royceann Porter, Mazahir Salih
STAFF PRESENT: Legal Counsel Pat Ford and Staff Kellie Tuttle
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Captain Doug Hart of the ICPD
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
(1) Accept CPRB FY15 Annual Report
(2) Accept CPRB Report on Complaint #15-02
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Martinez, to adopt the consent calendar as presented or
amended.
• Minutes of the meeting on 06/16/15
Motion carried, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
CPRB FY15 Annual Report - After review, the Board had minor changes to the report.
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Martinez to accept the FY15 Annual report as amended and
forward to the City Council.
Motion carried, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
BOARD INFORMATION
With the possibility of being his last meeting, Jensen thanked Martinez for his service on the
Board and to the community. Martinez's term ends September 1 and may not be available for
an August meeting due to scheduling.
STAFF INFORMATION
None.
CPRB
July 20, 2015
Page 2
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion by Martinez, seconded by Treloar 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, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent. Open session adjourned at 5:40 P.M.
REGULAR SESSION
Returned to open session at 6:50 P.M.
Motion by Treloar, seconded by Martinez, to forward the Public Report as amended for CPRB
Complaint #15-02 to City Council.
Motion carried, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent.
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to change)
• August 11, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• September 8, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• October 13, 2015, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
Martinez and Jensen will not be available the week of August 11th. Staff will look at meeting
materials and contact Board members to schedule a date if an August meeting is needed.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion for adjournment by Martinez, seconded by Treloar.
Motion carried, 3/0, Porter and Salih absent.
Meeting adjourned at 6:53 P.M.
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
(Formerly Citizens Police Review Board)
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2014-2015
(Meeting Date)
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
TERM
9/15
10/13
11/10
11/25
12/3
12/8
12/29
2/10
3/10
4/7
4/28
5/20
6/16
7/20
NAME
EXP.
Melissa
9/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jensen
Joseph
9/1/17
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Treloar
Royceann
9/1/16
O
X
O
O
X
X
X
O
X
X
X
O
O/E
O/E
Porter
Mazahir
9/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
O
O
Salih
Fidencio
9/1/15
---
---
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
O
X
X
X
X
Martinez
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Established in 1997, by ordinance #97-3792, the Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board formerly
known as Citizens Police Review Board and now known as Community Police Review Board
(hereafter referred as the CPRB), consists of five members appointed by the City Council. The CPRB
has its own outside legal counsel.
The Board was established to review investigations into claims of police misconduct, and to assist the
Police Chief, the City Manager, and the City Council in evaluating the overall performance of the
Police Department by reviewing the Police Department's investigations into complaints. The Board is
also required to maintain a central registry of complaints and to provide an annual report setting forth
the numbers, types, and disposition of complaints of police misconduct. The Board shall hold at least
one community forum each year for the purpose of hearing citizens' views on the policies, practices
and procedures of the Iowa City Police Department. To achieve these purposes, the Board complies
with Chapter 8 of the Iowa City Code and the Board's By -Laws and Standard Operating Procedures
and Guidelines.
In FY2015. an educational video was prepared for use on cable TV. In May, City Council adopted the
recommendations of the Charter Review Commission, changing the name to Community Police
Review Board.
ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015
Meetings
The CPRB tentatively holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday and special meetings as
necessary. During FY15 the Board held fourteen meetings and one Community Forum.
ICPD Policies/Procedures/Practices Reviewed By CPRB
The ICPD regularly provided the Board with monthly Use of Force Reports, Internal Investigation
Logs, Demographic Reports and various Training Bulletins. The Department also provided various
General Orders for the Board's review and comment. A senior member of the Police Department
routinely attended the open portion of the CPRB meetings, and was available for any questions Board
members had regarding these reports.
Presentations
In April of 2015 the Board held its seventh Community Forum as required by the City Charter. The
Board did introductions and the forum was opened to the public for questions. There were twelve
members of the public that spoke at the forum. Topics of discussion included the following: Board
responsibilities, military surplus equipment, body cameras, racial disparity, profiling, and diversity in
the police department.
Board Members
In October 2014 officers were nominated with Melissa Jensen as Chair and Joseph Treloar as Vice -
Chair. Fidencio Martinez was appointed in November of 2014 for an unexpired term.
CPRB Annual Report FY 2015 — Approved 07/20/2015 — 1
COMPLAINTS
Number and Type of Allegations
Eleven complaints (14 -03,14 -04,14-05,14-06,14-07,14-08,14-09,14-10,14-11,15-01,15-02) were filed
during the fiscal year July 1, 2014 — June 30, 2015. Eight public reports were completed during this
fiscal period (14-02,14-03,14-04,14-06,14-08,14-11,15-01). One complaint was withdrawn (14-07)
and three complaints were summarily dismissed (14-05,14-09,14-10) The remaining complaint filed in
FYI is pending before the Board (15-02).
Allegations
Complaint #14-02
1. Excessive Use of Force — SUSTAINED.
Complaint #14-03
1. Illegal Search of the Vehicle — NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Harassment — NOT SUSTAINED.
3. Use of a Racial Epithet — NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #14-04
1. Responsibilities — NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Obedience to laws and regulations — NOT SUSTAINED.
3. Incompetence — NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #14-05
SUMMARILY DISMISSED
Complaint #14-06
1. Unlawful Search — NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Unlawful Seizure — NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #14-07
WITHDRAWN.
Complaint #14-08
1. Officer included inaccurate information in an official police report - NOT SUSTAINED.
2. This was retaliation against the Complainant for filing a complaint against another
officer in an earlier CPRB complaint - NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #14-09
SUMMARILY DISMISSED.
Complaint #14-10
SUMMARILY DISMISSED.
Complaint #14-11
1. Officer failed to sufficiently investigate the motor vehicle collision as directed by ICPD General
Order 99-09, Section IV, Procedures. — NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Officer's determination that the Complainant was at fault in the accident was incorrect and the
traffic citation for following too closely should not have been issued — SUSTAINED.
3. Officer did not listen to the Complainant's point of view in regard to how the accident occurred
— NOT SUSTAINED.
CPRB Annual Report FY 2015 — Approved 07/20/2015 — 2
4. Officer's threat to take the Complainant to jail was inappropriate under these circumstances —
NOT SUSTAINED.
5. Officer issued the Complainant a citation because she is not an "American". — NOT
SUSTAINED.
Complaint #15-01
1. Racial Profiling — NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Discourtesy — NOT SUSTAINED.
Level of Review
The Board decided, by simple majority vote, the level of review to give each report, selecting one or
more of the six levels specified in the City Code per complaint:
Level a
On the record with no additional investigation 7
Level b
Interview or meet with complainant 0
Level c
Interview or meet with named officer 0
Level d
Request additional investigation by Chief or 0
City Manager, or request police assistance
in the Board's own investigation
Level a
Board performs its own additional investigation 0
Level f
Hire independent investigators 0
Complaint Resolutions
The Police Department investigates complaints to the CPRB of misconduct by police officers. The
Police Chief summarizes the results of these investigations and indicates in a report (the Chief's
Report) to the CPRB whether allegations are sustained or not sustained. (If complaints are made
against the Chief, the City Manager conducts the investigation and prepares and submits the reports.)
The Board reviews both the citizens' complaint and the Chief's Report and decides whether its
conclusions about the allegations should be sustained or not sustained. The Board prepares a report
which is submitted to the City Council.
Of the eighteen allegations listed in the seven complaints for which the Board reported, two were
sustained.
The Board made comments and/or recommendations for improvement in police policy, procedures, or
conduct in three of the reports:
Complaint #14-02 — The CPRB acknowledges that suitable changes have been made to the Weapons
policy.
Complaint #14-04 — The original eight allegations are summarized in the three categories listed
above.
Complaint 15-01 - CPRB acknowledges cultural differences and mannerisms may make it
difficult to accurately assess and interpret behavior, especially when compared to others
behavior/responses.
Name -Clearing Hearings
The ordinance requires that the Board not issue a report critical of the conduct of a sworn officer until
after a name -clearing hearing has been held. During this fiscal period, the Board scheduled two
name -clearing hearings, but none were held.
CPRB Annual Report FY 2015 — Approved 07/20/2015 — 3
Complaint Histories of Officers
City ordinance requires that the annual report of the CPRB must not include the names of
complainants or officers involved in unsustained complaints and must be in a form that protects the
confidentiality of information about all parties. In the seven complaints covered by the FY15 annual
report a total of ten officers were involved with allegations against them.
ICPD Internal Investigations Logs
The Board reviewed the quarterly ICPD Internal Investigations Log, provided by the Chief of Police.
COMPLAINT DEMOGRAPHICS
The following is demographic information from the seven complaints that were completed in this fiscal
year. Because complainants provide this voluntarily, the demographic information may be
incomplete.
* Category/Number of Complainants
Age:
National Origin:
Color:
Under 21
0
American
2
White 2
21 & over
4
Unknown
5
Black 1
Unknown
3
Brown 1
Unknown 3
Sexual Orientation:
Gender Identity:
Sex:
Heterosexual
1
Female
1
Female 1
Unknown
6
Male
2
Male 2
Unknown
4
Unknown 4
Marital Status:
Religion:
Mental Disability:
Single
2
Unknown
6
No 0
Married
1
None
1
Yes 1
Unknown
4
Unknown 6
Divorced
0
Physical Disability:
No 1
Yes 0
Unknown 6
* Information is reported as presented by the person completing the form.
BOARD MEMBERS
Melissa Jensen, Chair
Joseph Treloar, Vice Chair
Royceann Porter
Mazahir Salih
Maxime Tremblay/Fidencio Martinez
CPRB Annual Report FY 2015 — Approved 07/20/2015 — 4
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
(formerly known as Citizens Police Review Board)
A Board of the City of Iowa City
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240-1826
(319) 356-5041
July 20, 2015
a
CID
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To: City Council
r,3,
Complainant
--
City Manager"
Equity Director
46
Sam Hargadine, Chief of Police
`•o
Officer(s) involved in complaint
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From: Community Police Review Board
Re: Investigation of CPRB Complaint #15-02
This is the Report of the Citizens Police Review Board's (the "Board") review of the investigation of
Complaint CPRB #15-02 (the "Complaint").
BOARD'S RESPONSIBILITY
Under the City Code of the City of Iowa City, the Board's responsibilities are as follows:
1. The Board forwards all complaints to the Police Chief, who completes an investigation.
(Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(A).)
2. When the Board receives the Police Chiefs report, the Board must select one or more of the
following levels of review, in accordance with Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(B)(1):
a. On the record with no additional investigation.
b. Interview /meet with complainant.
c. Interview /meet with named officer(s) and other officers.
d. Request additional investigation by the police chief, or request police assistance in the
board's own investigation.
e. Perform its own investigation with the authority to subpoena witnesses.
f. Hire independent investigators.
3. In reviewing the Police Chiefs report, the Board must apply a "reasonable basis" standard of review.
This means that the Board must give deference to the Police Chiefs report, because of the Police
Chiefs professional expertise. (Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(B)(2).)
4. According to Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(B)(2), the Board can recommend that the Police Chief
reverse or modify the Chiefs findings only if:
a. The findings are not supported by substantial evidence; or
b. The findings are unreasonable, arbitrary or capricious; or
c. The findings are contrary to a police department policy or practice, or any federal, state or
local law.
5. When the Board has completed its review of the Police Chiefs report, the Board issues a public
report to the city council. The public report must include: (1) detailed findings of fact; and (2) a
clearly articulated conclusion explaining why and the extent to which the complaint is either
"sustained" or "not sustained ". (Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(13)(3).)
6. Even if the Board finds that the complaint is sustained, the Board has no authority to discipline the
officer involved.
C) C_n
BOARD'S PROCEDURE roc_
The Complaint was initiated by the Complainant on 03/18/15. As required by Se�� ry
8-8-5(B) of the City Code, the Complaint was referred to the Chief of Police for inatjQv.
�c
The Chief's Report was filed with the City Clerk on 05/21/15.
c.n
The Board voted on 06/16/15 to apply the following Level of Review to the Chiefs Report: n the record
with no additional investigation, pursuant to Iowa City Code Section 8-8-7(Bx1)(a).
As customary the Police Chief provided a copy of all audio or video recordings of the incident.
The Board met to consider the Report on 06/16/15 and 07/20/15.
Board members independently reviewed audio or video recordings of the incident prior to this meeting.
FINDINGS OF FACT
On March 9, 2015, Iowa City police imitated a traffic stop due to a nonfunctioning brake light. Officers
informed the driver of the violation and asked for relevant documents (license, registration, insurance).
While engaging the driver in conversation the officer made a number of observations that caused him to
suspect that evidence of illegal drug use or transport might be found in the vehicle. Upon request a
Sargent authorized a K-9 unit to be dispatched to the scene for drug detection. Officers removed the
Complainant and the passenger and searched the vehicle, based on a positive alert from the K-9. No
evidence of illegal drugs was found. Subsequently the passenger admitted to smoking marijuana
earlier in the day while wearing the same clothes. The Complainant was issued three traffic citations
and arrangements were made for him to park the vehicle until a valid driver could respond.
ALLEGATION 1 —Unprofessional Behavior -Rudeness and Harassment.
The Complainant alleged that he brought his disabilities to the officer's attention and was ignored. The
Complainant alleged that officers got him and his passenger out of the vehicle and sat them on the
ground. Review of the videos showed that at no time was the Complainant sat on the ground, nor did
he sit on the ground on his own accord. The Complainant was seen standing and leaning on the police
car but not sitting on the ground. The Complainant did mention to the officer that he had disabilities but
did not identify any special needs that the officer should consider when dealing with him.
The Complainant included in his complaint, "we were never informed the traffic stop was now a drug
stop, until the officer showed up with a drug dog". The officer stated he does not tip off people that a K-
9 is responding because he wants to minimize the opportunity for the destruction or discarding of illegal
drugs. This is consistent with established practices of the ICPD.
There was no evidence in the video and audio recordings of officers behaving rudely or
unprofessionally toward the Complainant or his passenger.
Allegation: 1 - Unprofessional Behavior -Rudeness and Harassment - Not Sustained
ALLEGATION 2 — Differential Treatment -Violation of Civil Riohts.
The Complainant alleged that officers did not advise him of his rights by reading him a Miranda
Warning. However, the Complainant and his partner were not subject to a custodial interrogation, so
advising them of their Miranda Warning was not required.
The Complainant alleged that officers searched his vehicle without consent. The officer had
reasonable suspicion that drugs would be found in the car, so consent was not required once the K-9
alerted.
The Complainant alleged that officers "depended on our fear & intimidation so that I would give them
what they wanted." When the videos of this incident were reviewed, there was no evidence of officers
attempting to use fear or intimidation when dealing with the Complainant and the passenger in his
vehicle.
The Complainant alleged he was discriminated due to this race. In reviewing the video and audio
evidence there was nothing to indicate any discrimination.
Allegation: 2 — Differential Treatment -Violation of Civil Rights - Not sustained
ALLEGATION 3 — False Reports.
The Complainant alleged that officers did not have grounds to issue him citations. The Complainant
reported that "... but I refused to sign any of the tickets so the officer took the tickets back & got into
his vehicle & left." The Chief's report included three citations signed by the Complainant. The
Complainant could be seen on the video signing these citations. The Chiefs report also included
records from Iowa Courts on Line showing that the Complainant plead guilty of two of the citations and
the third "Financial Liability Coverage 321.2013-A" was dismissed. Financial Liability Coverage charges
are dismissed, by operation of law, if the defendant provides proof to the court that they were insured at
the time the citation was issued. Pleading guilty to the citations contradicts the allegation that these
were false reports. r%J
0
Allegation: 3 - False Reports- Not sustained .
po .�..
COMMENTS
A
The complete video and audio record alone clearly refutes all of the allegations isco duct
baseless. In fact, after extensive audio and video review during this investigatic the mplainant
agreed the officer did not commit the violations that were alleged.
QW4
PUBLIC LIBRARY
123 S. Linn St. • Iowa City, IA 52240
nine — Susan Craig . Pwa 319-3563700. u. 3193563494 wwwJcpLorg
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
July 23, 2015
Final Approved
Members Present: Diane Baker, John Beasley, Adam Ingersoll, Thomas Martin, Robin Paetzold, Jay
Semel, Monique Washington.
Members Absent: Janet Freeman, Meredith Rich -Chappell.
Staff Present: Terri Byers, Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Kara Logsden, Anne Mangano, Patty McCarthy,
Elyse Miller, Brent Palmer.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. President Paetzold called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. It is the first
meeting for three new Board members and introductions were made around the room.
Public Discussion. None.
Approval of Minutes.
The minutes of the June 25, 2015 Library Board of Trustees meeting were reviewed. A motion to
approve the Minutes was made by Baker and seconded by Martin. Motion carried 7/0.
Unfinished Business.
5
2b(2)
Library Board Annual Report. This report goes to the City to be included in the City's annual report
which includes reports from all Boards and Commissions. It was prepared by Craig after discussion at
the June meeting. There were no questions or edits to the document.
New Business.
Library Policy #103: Membership in Professional & Civic Organizations. This is a regularly scheduled
policy review. Craig explained the process for reviewing Board policies for the benefit of the new Board
members. A motion to approve the policy with recommended staff changes was made by Semel and
seconded by Ingersoll. Motion carried 7/0.
FY15 Strategic Plan Review. The FY15 is the last year of the "old" strategic plan. It looks different from
FY16 and FY17, also included in the packet. Paetzold wondered if we include outreach in community
needs on page 6. Craig said she will put this in her annual report but ongoing efforts are not typically
included in the strategic plan unless they are undergoing significant change. Martin asked about the
Koza Family Teen Center. Clark said there is a lot of activity in the room; and is pleased to see teens
playing board games. No Board action required.
FY16 Strategic Plan. There was a long discussion about bookmobile service. It was decided to start the
August 27, 2015 Board meeting at 4:00 pm to further discuss the bookmobile. If needed, another
meeting about the topic will be held on September 10, 2015. A motion to approve the FY16 strategic
plan with the suggested changes was made by Martin and seconded by Washington. Motion carried
7/0.
FY17 Strategic Plan. A motion to approve the draft of FY17 strategic plan as presented was made by
Beasley and seconded by Baker. Motion carried 7/0.
FY16 NOBU Budget. Craig described the nature of these funds. Beasley asked about the balance in the
NOBU account. Craig's conservative estimate is double her budget request with one small exception (a
state fund that must be spent the year it is received). Money is earned one year and spent the next. The
balance this year is larger than usual because several major projects, including upgrades to equipment
in the meeting rooms and special music programming are being carried over from FY15. A motion to
approve the FY16 NOBU budget as presented was made by Martin and seconded by Baker. Motion
carried 7/0.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. Craig wrote a blog about "what's up, what's down." Total circulation is down 1%; she
hopes circulation is levelling off. Ebooks and downloads account for less than 10% of our circulation.
She noted Iowa City is a book reading community. Craig described the budget timeline for the new
members. She had her first budget preparatory meeting with a City person this week.
Departmental Reports:
Adult Services. No comments.
Community & Access Services. No comments.
Development Office Report. McCarthy is in the process of closing FY15 and hopes to be done at the
end of July. The Book End sidewalk sale gleaned $1,400. Hills Bank has agreed to fund (more than
$10,000 this year) Begin with Books again. This outreach effort provides every newborns at Mercy
Hospital and UIHC with a copy of "Goodnight Moon," and information about beginning to read to your
baby. Collection Services has pallets of books for this great service.
FY16 Public Relations Annual Report and FY16 Public Relations Plan. No comments.
Spotlight on the Collection. No comments.
Miscellaneous. No comments.
President's Report. Dinner in August at Brix after the meeting. Bookmobile discussion will begin the
early meeting in August.
Announcements from Members. Martin suggested the media policy be included in the trustees'
orientation and manual.
Committee Reports.
Foundation Members. At the recent meeting, new members were introduced and broke into small
groups to complete a project which helped them each create a personalized statement about their
support of the library. Their next meeting is a four hour planning session in September.
Communications. Peter Muir sent an email suggesting the mural from old Post Office building be
placed in the library. Craig responded and thought it was a good idea but believes the library does not
have enough wall space for it. Board members thought this was a good idea. Craig will measure the
Computer Lab wall and offer the space as a suggestion. Any acquisition of permanent art would need to
be approved by the Art Committee.
Clark out at 6:30.
Logsden out at 6:35.
Disbursements.
The MasterCard expenditures for June, 2015 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements for
June, 2015 was made by Martin and seconded by Ingersoll. Motion carried 7/0.
Set Agenda Order for August Meeting.
Early meeting in August for bookmobile discussion.
Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Baker and seconded by Beasley. Motion
carried 7/0. President Paetzold closed the meeting at 6:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Elyse Miller
Board or Commission: ICPL Board of Trustees
ATTENDANCE RECORD
12 Month
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
Meeting Date
Name
Tei
9/25/14
10/16/14
11/20/14
12/18/14
1/22/15
2/26/15
3/26/15
4/23/15
S/28/1S
6/2$/15
7/23/1S
8/27/15
Diane Baker
6/30/19
x
O/E
X
x
O/E
x
x
O/E
x
x
X
x
John Beasley
6/30/21
Not on Board
x
x
Thomas Dean
6/30/15
x
x
O/E
X
x
x
x
x
X
O/E
Off Board
Janet Freeman
6/30/19
X
x
X
x
O/E
x
x
O/E
x
x
O
X
David Hamilton
6/30/15
X
X
X
X
X
x
O/E
O/E
X
x
Off Board
Adam Ingersoll
6/30/21
Not on Board
X
x
Tom Martin
6/30/17
X
X
O/E
X
x
X
X
X
x
X
x
O/E
Linzee Kull
McCra
6/30/15
x
X
X
X
O
O/E
x
X
x
X
Off Board
Robin Paetzold
6/30/17
x
x
X
x
X
x
x
X
x
X
x
X
Meredith
Rich -Chappell
6/30/17
X
O/E
x
x
X
O/E
X
X
X
x
O/E
x
Jay Semel
6/30/19
X
x
X
x I
O/E I
x
X
x
O/E
x
X
x
Monique
Washin ton
6/30/21
Not on Board
X
X
KEY:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
2_
MINUTES
APPROVED
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
JULY 8, 2015
ROBERT A. LEE COMMUNITY
RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present:
Suzanne Bender, David Bourgeois, Larry Brown, Clay Claussen, Maggie Elliott,
Katie Jones, Joe Younker
Members Absent:
Cara Hamann, Lucie Laurian
Staff Present:
Mike Moran, Chad Dyson, Zac Hall
Others Present:
Del Holland
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:
Changes noted for the June 2015 minutes as follows: Add Joe Younker to the members present list.
Change the date to June 10, 2015.
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Bentler, to anurove the June 2015 minutes as amended Passed 7-
0 (Hamann & Laurian absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
No public discussion.
JOHNSON COUNTY DOGPAC DISCUSSION:
Bourgeois noted that the Johnson County DogPAC has pledged $5000 towards the pond restoration at
Thornberry Dog Park. Bourgeois noted that even though DogPAC is no longer an affiliate, he would
prefer to still run larger projects before them. He feels it is important to maintain a good relationship with
DogPAC. He noted that once the project to restore the pond begins, it will take approximately two weeks
to complete. Claussen agreed that maintaining a good relationship with DogPAC is important.
RECREATION DIVISION REPORT:
Youth Sports Council: Dyson has scheduled an initial meeting for the newly created Youth Sports
Council on August 6. Claussen will serve as a commission representative on this council. The first
meeting will include gathering background information as well as forming goals and objectives for the
group. Subsequent meetings will build on those goals and work towards developing a cost recovery plan
to support maintenance operations of the sports fields. Brown noted that he is interested in participating
on this council as well.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 8, 2015
Page 2 of 6
Recreation Program Supervisor — Customer Engagement Position: The position has been offered to and
accepted by Amanda Opits. Opits will be in charge of all of the front line staff at recreation facilities for
the City. She has experience working with the YWCA in Missoula, Montana.
Fall Facility Projects: The pool at Mercer Park Aquatic Center will be shut down in August for
maintenance, tile work, painting and cleaning. In December, staff will shut down the Recreation Center
pool to replace a portion of the HVAC system as well as locker room painting. Hope to accomplish this
between fall and winter swim lessons and during winter break. Staff will move forward with getting
pricing for the installation of the cabanas at City Park Pool. Staff expects to begin construction this fall
with them opening for rental in spring of 2016.
PARKS DIVISION REPORT
Parks Department Staffing: The Parks Division is undergoing some staff changes with the recent hiring
of Tyler Baird, Horticulture Specialist, and Joe Green, Maintenance Worker II, Horticulture.
Upcoming Park Projects: A new shelter has been installed at Hickory Hill Trail Park with new swings to
be put in place soon as well.
Planting List: Staff is developing a planting list of trees for the City. This list will include no more than
5% of trees with the same genus. This diversity will feed into our EAB plan when replacing ash trees.
Staff has determined that almost 30% of the trees on Washington Street are of the same genus. This can
be detrimental when a certain type of tree is diseased.
Brown noted that at the south end of The Terry Trueblood Recreation Area there are hundreds of maple
tree shoots. He asked Hall if these could be salvaged and replanted elsewhere. Hall said that the City is
moving away from maple trees as they are suspected to be the next tree species hit with disease.
DIRECTORS REPORT:
Normandy Drive Restoration Project: The final phase of this project will consist of the trail project to
Rocky Shore Dr. Project Green has done a great job with the landscaping at Ashton House.
Park Signage: The department is moving ahead with replacing park signs with the new design. There
have been approximately 20 of these signs put in place to date. They have been very well-received by the
community.
Dog Parks: Running water has been added to Rita's Ranch. Both Rita's and Thornberry now have
running water that includes a drinking fountain for the dogs. The windmill project planned for the pond
at Thornberry will not be tapping into a water source, but will be adding aeration to the existing water
which will then recycle. The pond will be widened somewhat, made a little deeper and there will be a
small beach area added for the dogs. Much of the cost for this project will be donated with just $5,000 to
$15,000 paid by the City.
Neighborhood Park Updates:
Reno Street Park: This project is close to being complete. A new shelter is in place. The old
playground has been removed with a new one coming in soon.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 8, 2015
Page 3 of 6
Hickory Trail Park: This park is being funded with Neighborhood Open Space (NOS) fees. The
developer was required to donate approximately 3.5 acres for open space to the City.
Tower Court Park: This project is also being funded with NOS fees totaling approximately
$75,000. Enhancements to this park include a spray pad and a new playground. Moran explained
that a spray pad is more of a fountain, where a splash pad includes water features, is larger and
more expensive.
Highland Park: A PIN (Program for Improving Neighborhoods) grant was awarded in the amount
of $5000 for park improvements. This along with $3000+ raised through fundraising efforts by
the neighborhood, will provide them with a new park shelter, a new park sign and possibly a new
playground. This project is to be complete by the Party in the Park event which is scheduled for
Thursday, August 6 at 6:30 p.m.
Pending RFP's:
Willow Creek/Kiwanis Park Restoration: The bid opening will take place on Friday, July 10. If
the bids are favorable and awarded, this will then go before council at their meeting on July 15
for review and approval. Staff hopes to have this project started by August 3.
Lower City Park: This project has been awarded to Confluence, an architectural/landscaping
firm in Iowa City. Moran very recently received the contract which will now go to the City
Manager for his signature. Moran explained that while most RFP's are brought before the
Commission, as well as the neighborhood for comments prior to going out, this particular one did
not as there is no planned money associated with this. While Confluence did include a secondary
access road into City Park in their concept plan, the City Engineer says that there will no longer
be a need for this road. Elliott asked if Riverside Theatre Staff would be included when making
plans for the Shakespeare Festival Stage located in lower City Park. Moran said that they will be
included.
Mercer Park Playground: Moran stated that this RFP includes the removal of the playgrounds at
Mercer. These playgrounds will either be repurposed or replaced. This project will also include
the addition of a Fibar System surface. This will provide a safer playground surface. This project
will run approximately $270,000. Staff hopes to have this project completed by fall.
East Side Sports Complex: This RFP is to draft an East Side Sports Complex Master Plan. This
contract will be $50,000. The complex would be built on 75 acres of city -owned land located
east of Taft Ave. S.E. and about a quarter mile south of the site planned for the new Hoover
Elementary School. If built, this project would be funded through CIP funds. This complex would
include multiuse fields for baseball, soccer, rugby, or other sports.
Hickory Hill Master Plan: This master plan is being created as a result of the Friends of Hickory
Hill. They asked that the City look at a plan that was presented to them by Confluence, however,
left them with some concerns. Therefore, the City is creating a Request for Proposal for a
contractor to develop a plan that will include a new trail configuration, a new bridge and the
placement of way -finding signs. This project is fully funded as the council approved $225,000 for
park improvements over a three year time frame.
Bourgeois noted that Animal Services asked if he could place one of his dog park staff members
at Hickory Hill Park periodically to monitor for dogs not on a leash. He has a staff member that
has been monitoring this without many violations being noted.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 8, 2015
Page 4 of 6
28E Agreement -Alexander Elementary: It was the hopes of the school district to create a uniform 28E
agreement for all schools in Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty; however, they were unable to do so.
Moran and Dyson have asked the City Attorney to go ahead and initiate a 28E Agreement for Alexander
Elementary.
Sand Lake: There is some increased algae growth in Sand Lake at TTRA. Because the water is shallow,
the sun is able to reach the bottom and therefore, promote growth. The department is exploring other
options before dredging as this process is quite expensive. Based on lab reports, the water is still fine with
very low levels E. coli reported. Fin and Feather concession rentals and sales are going very well.
Commission Applications: The deadline for the Parks and Recreation Commission vacancy left by the
departure of Katie Jones, is July 21. An announcement of who will be appointed will be announced at the
July 27 Council Meeting.
Chauncev Swan Park: Hall will be meeting with the contractor (Rohrbach Associates) for the Chauncey
Swan Park renovation process after the construction of The Chauncey. As this project progresses, plans
for the park will be brought before this commission. The developers have pledged $500,000 for
restoration of the park.
Announcement: Moran announced his retirement from the City of Iowa City effective Friday, September
25. Moran has been with the department for 32 years.
CHAIRS REPORT:
Claussen commended Moran on a job well done over the many years he has been with the City.
Moran encouraged commission members to look over the job description and also suggested that a
commission member consider being a participant on the interview committee if allowed.
August Meeting: The new appointee to the Commission should be in attendance at the August meeting.
Member absences will include Younker and Laurian.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Bender was approached about boat storage at Crandic Park and asked Moran if he thought this was going
to be a possibility. Moran noted that he is meeting with someone next week to further discuss this option.
Community members were able to store their row boats at Beckwith Boathouse; however, this will no
longer be an option. Moran will report back to Commission.
Elliott congratulated Moran on his upcoming retirement.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Elliott to adiourn the meeting at 5:55 p.m. Motion passed 7-0
(Hamann and Laurian absent).
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
July 8, 2015
Page 5 of 6
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
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00
EXPIRE
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ON
N
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r
S
Suzanne
1/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Bentler
David
1/1/15
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
Bourgeois
Larry Brown
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Clay
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Claussen
Maggie
1/1/17
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
Elliott
Cara
1/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Hamann
Katie Jones
1/1/18
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Lucie
1/1/15
X
O/E
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
Laurian
Joe Younker
1/1/16
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
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