HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-01-26 Board Comm minutesMINUTES PRELIMINARY
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEEE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 1987 - 4:00 PM Subject to Approval
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM B
MEMBERS PRESENT: Alexander, Amert, Haupert, Nelson, Novick, Seiberling,
Waters, Welt
MEMBERS ABSENT: Nagle, Sinek
STAFF PRESENT: Cain, Reggentin
GUESTS PRESENT: John Gross, DTA; Richard Kruse, Architect
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
Design Review Committee recommends approval of the awning proposal for the
Lenoch and Cilek Mall Project, 130 Dubuque Street.
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Vice -Chairperson Novick at 4:05 PM.
INTRODUCTIONS
Cain introduced guests and members present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Alexander moved, seconded by Seiberling to approve the minutes of October 8,
1987. The motion carried unanimously.
REVIEW OF AWNING PROPOSAL FOR LENOCH AND CILEK MALL PROJECT AT 130 S. DUBUQUE
STREET
Kruse, project architect, gave a brief description of the proposed improve-
ments. He stated the street level was to be subdivided to rent to a number of
tenants in a mini -mall style. Lenoch and Cilek would occupy the basement
retail space. Blueprints of the proposal were shown to the Committee in order
to give them a better idea of the entire project.
For the exterior, Kruse stated that the outdoor porcelain panels and columns on
the present building would be repaired and painted. He then showed the colors
that would be used for the exterior trim. He stated the only addition would be
an awning to replace the metal awning presently attached over the south en-
trance. He stated that a more conventional, fabric awning would be used. The
awning will be rectangular in shape and a teal blue/green color.
Kruse said that the existing signage would be removed and replaced with a
directory -type sign listing retail establishments in the mini -mall project. The
directory signs would probably have a background to match the existing brick,
with block lettering in blue/green to match the awning.
Gross asked if there would be a problem with bird droppings on the awnings.
Kruse stated there would be no problem because birds will tend not to rest on
top of it.
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Design Review Comnittee
December 17, 1987
Page 2
Haupert moved to approve the awning proposal for 130 S. Dubuque Street. Waters
seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
UPDATE ON NEWSPAPER VENDING MACHINE REGULATIONS
Cain stated that City staff still had not met to discuss an ordinance. She
stated that the newspapers have suggested a voluntary approach be used. The
Committee will be kept informed of progress.
UPDATE ON CITY PLAZA ADOPT -A -BED PROGRAM
Haupert stated that 25 to 30 beds have been adopted to date. He stated the
Mayor's Youth Program had applied for and received a grant to adopt 10-15
beds. Seiberling asked how long this program would be going on and how many
people would be involved. Cain stated the grant is for 27 weeks; the grant
covers six advisors and approximately 30 youths. Haupert stated there would be
training sessions so the individuals would be prepared to work and have knowl-
edge of the program's objectives.
Haupert stated that establishing a master planting plan is necessary as the
next step. He stated this can be expensive and he had talked with Project
GREEN and the Downtown Association to assist in funding a plan, Project GREEN
stated they would match any amount put up by the Downtown Association. Haupert
stated that he spoke with Jim Maynard to ask if he would develop a cost esti-
mate to perform this work. Maynard stated he would be glad to help out.
Haupert was pleased and optimistic about progress so far. He said the City
will have input into the master plan, as would the Design Review Committee,
Project GREEN, and the Downtown Association.
Haupert then stated that a kiosk would still be needed for tool storage, espe-
cially for hoses and wet pavement markers for watering. Cain added the Holiday
Inn has offered to provide plantings and maintain the planters adjacent to the
hotel.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
Welt noted that he received a letter from Terry Trueblood regarding the Plaza
hosta bed. The Hosta Society did donate and plant the bed last spring, but the
City staff maintains the bed. It was noted that Sheri Thomas and her mainte-
nance crew take care of the tasks. The Design Review Comnittee recognized the
work that Sheri and her crew do on maintaining the beds.
Bob Alexander showed a drawing of AIA -designed newspaper vending machines being
proposed for Santa Barbara, California.
ADJOURNMENT
Seiberling moved and Haupert seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion
carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 4:50 PM.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Mark Reggentin.
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MINUTES /)
PLANNING 8 ZONING COMMISSION
FORMAL MEETING it
DECEMBER 17, 1987 - 7:30 PM %
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Clark, Cooper, Dierks (arrived at 7:49 PM), Hebert,
Scott
MEMBERS ABSENT: Wallace
STAFF PRESENT: Beagle, Boyle, Moen, Kritz
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL:
1. Commission found Item CZ -8720, a request submitted by John Sohm to
rezone a 1.75 acre parcel from RS, Suburban District, to A-1, Rural
District, and to rezone a 1.43 acre parcel from A-1 to RS to be
inconsistent with the Area 4 Fringe Area Policy. Said parcels are
located approximately two (2) miles north of Iowa City on the east
side of County Road F8W across from Timber Trails Subdivision, Part
2.
2. Recommend approval of amendments to Section 36-58, Off -Street Parking
Requirements.
3. Recommend approval of Item 5-8726, an application submitted. by Oakes
Construction Company for approval of a final plat for Rochester
Place, a 22 -lot residential subdivision located south of Rochester
Avenue and west of First Avenue.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Scott called the meeting to order at 7:33 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
There was no public discussion.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 19, 1987 AND DECEMBER 3. 1987:
Cooper moved to approve the minutes of November 19, 1987. Hebert seconded
the motion. The motion carried 4-0.
Cooper moved to approve the minutes of December 3, 1987. Clark seconded
the motion. The motion carried 4-0.
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MINUTES
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 17, 1987
PAGE 2
ZONING ITEMS:
V-8708. Public discussion of an application submitted by Plum Grove
Acres, Inc. to rezone a 42.54 acre tract east of First Avenue
extended via Hickory Trail from ID -RS to RS -5. (45 -day limitation
period: December 25, 1987).
Beagle reported that the Commission has received the waiver from the
applicant waiving the 45 -day limitation period. Staff would recom-
mend that this item be deferred to February 10, 1988, pending the
resolution of the issue of secondary access. Chairperson Scott noted
that the Commission did receive the letter to waive this item until
February 10, 1988, and would entertain a motion to defer Item V-8708
to February 4, 1988.
Hebert moved that Item V-8708 be deferred to February 4, 1988.
Cooper seconded the motion. The motion carried 4-0.
V-8709. Public discussion of an application submitted by Southgate
Development Company to rezone an approximate 1.8 acre tract located
east of Boyrum Street and north of Olympic Circle from I-1 to CI -1.
(45 -day limitation period: January 8, 1988).
Moen reported that the applicant wishes to lease the property on a
temporary basis to National Computer Systems (NCS) to allow NCS to
establish offices in this location. The I-1 zoning classification
placed on the property under consideration reflects the land use that
existed on the property at the time the zoning map was adopted and
not the land use shown in the comprehensive plan to be the most
appropriate for this area. The short and long range development
plans for the city indicate that the subject parcel is located in an
area that is encouraged to develop for commercial purposes and,
indeed, most of the surrounding areas are zoned for such uses. The
subject tract of land possesses qualities that make it suitable for
intensive commercial use, the land use recommended for the area in
the 1983 Comprehensive Plan Update. Rezoning the property from 1-1
to CI -1 would allow development of the site for uses which are both
compatible with adjacent uses and consistent with the development
policies erty
describedinadopted
Attachment ofCythis report be rezoned from I-1,. Staff recommends that the pGeneral
Industrial, to CI -1, Intensive Commercial. Moen also reported that
she had contacted the property owner that abuts the applicant
property and inquired whether he wished to rezone his property to CI -
1. The property owner stated that the present zoning permits a
MINUTES
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 17, 1987
PAGE 3
greater potential for expansion of his business and did not wish it
rezoned.
Clark moved to defer Item V-8709 to the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion meeting of January 7, 1988. Cooper seconded the motion. The
motion carried 4-0.
CZ -8720. Public discussion of a request submitted by John Sohm to
rezone a 1.75 acre parcel from RS, Suburban District, to A-1, Rural
District, and to rezone a 1.43 acre parcel from A-1 to RS. Said
parcels are located approximately two (2) miles north of Iowa City on
the east side of County Road F8W across from Timber Trails Sub-
division, Part 2.
Commission requested that staff only present the report pertaining to
the rezoning request and to defer presentation of the report which
addresses the subdivision plat. Beagle reported that the two parcels
totalling 3.5 acres were rezoned from Al to RS in 1984 and comprised
most of the area of the two proposed residential lots. The rezoning
is being applied for in order to correct a discrepancy concerning one
of the two RS zoned parcels within the proposed subdivision. On
August 9, 1984, Mr. Sohm initiated an application to rezone two (2)
separate 1.75 acre parcels in the northwest corner of the 87.6 acre
tract from Al, Rural District, to RS, Suburban District. In accor-
dance with Section II.A.3. of the Fringe Area Policy Agreement, the
request was forwarded to the Planning & Zoning Commission for review
and comment. On September 6, 1984, the Commission found the request
to be inconsistent with the development policy for Area 4 which
advocated agricultural uses. The City Council concurred with the
Commission's recommendation and notified the Board of Supervisors of
its finding that the requested rezoning was inconsistent with the
development policy for Area 4. Contrary to that policy and the
Council's findings, the Board of Supervisors approved the rezoning of
the two parcels on October 18, 1984. Section II.A.3. of the ad-
ministrative policy states that "[a]ny zoning change will conform
with the policies identified for the area in which the requested
change is located." Since the City has no absolute power to approve
or deny rezoning requests in the County, the only action available to
the City, in instances where rezoning is contrary to the policy, is
to deny the subsequent subdivision. Staff recommends that the
combined rezoning of the 1.7 acre tract from RS to Al and the new
1.43 acre tract from Al to RS be found inconsistent with the develop-
ment policy for Area 4 which recommends that this area be used for
agricultural purposes.
MINUTES
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 17, 1987
PAGE 4
Clark moved to find the proposed rezoning, Item CZ -8720, inconsistent
with the Fringe Area policy for Area 4. Hebert seconded the motion.
The motion carried 4-0.
The Commission noted that it will only consider the rezoning request
at the present time and will wait until the Board of Supervisors has
ruled on the rezoning to deal with the subdivision plat.
Dierks arrived at 7:49 P.M.
Public discussion of amendments to Section 36-58, Off -Street Parking
Requirements.
Beagle reported that the proposed amendment establishes a required
driveway width of ten feet for a one-way aisle while a two-way aisle
will require 18 feet in width. This represents the only change in
the amendment to Section 36-58 since it was presented to the Commis-
sion at the informal meeting of December 14, 1987.
Dierks asked how the Commission felt about the effects of increasing
the number of compact car spaces. Dierks expressed frustration over
compact cars occupying standard sized spaces which limits the number
of spaces available to larger vehicles. Scott replied that he felt
the major problem would be the public's perception of what type of
vehicichangeeincan fit signageioto citiact zens judge wheand theretheirfcaro
wouldtfit
or not. Commission discussed perceptions of what is a compact car
and whether a change in the signage would help alleviate the con-
fusion.
Clark requested staff to investigate an amendment to allow temporary
parking lots to be surfaced with something less than the required
permanent hard surface.
Cooper moved to adopt the amendments to Section 36-58, Off -Street
Parking Requirements. Hebert seconded the motion. The motion
carried 5-0.
DEVELOPMENT ITEMS:
5-8521. Public Discussion of a revised preliminary and final plat of
Bent Brook Acres Subdivision, a two (2) lot, 4.75 acre subdivision
located approximately two (2) miles north of Iowa City on the east
side of County Road FBW. (45 -day limitation period: waived).
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MINUTES
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 17, 1987
PAGE 5
Commission noted that members have received a memo dated December 16,
1987, from Barry Beagle, Associate Planner. The memo reported that
the revised auxiliary plat of Bent Brook Acres has been reviewed by
the Public Works Department and they are satisfied with the proposed
contours shown south of the access easement intersection with the
County Road. A letter has also been received from the Solon Fire
services partmenindicating
cgthey
will
for the vicestothesubdivision anhave alb
o established�aefiretrrating
the only deficiency associatedlwiththe the prQopu ed sued bdivision.
Dierks
remains
Dierks moved to defer Item S-8521, subject to the call of the chair.
Cooper seconded the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
S-8716. Public Discussion of an application submitted by Metro
Pavers, Inc., for approval of a Large Scale Non -Residential Develop-
ment (LSNRD) plan for property located at 1722 Stevens Drive. (45 -
day limitation period: waived).
Staff reported there was nothing new on this item.
Dierks moved to defer Item S-8716 to the Planning & Z
meeting of January 71988oning Commission
, . Clark seconded the motion. The motion
carried 5-0.
3. Ste, Public discussion of an application submitted by Frantz
Green, XI, aI43-lotrresidential suroval of a bdivisionrlocatedlat fosouth �land
west of the intersection of Muscatine Avenue and Scott Boulevard.
(45 -day limitation period: waived).
Staff reported that the Commission would receive a memorandum from
staff prior to the Commission's January 4, 1988 informal meeting
which will address staff concerns regarding this proposal.
Clark moved to defer Item S-8720 to the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion meeting of January 7, 1988. Dierks seconded the motion. The
motion carried 5-0.
5-8726. Public discussion of an application submitted by Oakes Con-
struction Co. for approval of a final plat for Rochester Place, a 22-
lot residential subdivision located south of Rochester Avenue and
west of First Avenue. (45 -day limitation period: December 28,
1987).
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MINUTES
PLANNING 8 ZONING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 17, 1987
PAGE 6
Moen reported that the final plat differs from the preliminary only
in that the number of lots has decreased from 23 to 22 and that the
cul-de-sac called Rita Lynn Place has been changed to read Rita Lynn
Court. The application conforms with the subdivision regulations.
stoarmwatereements detention concerning
h havemaintenance
compl completed and sidewalk
approveda nd the
by the
Legal Department.
Hebert moved to approve Item S-8726. Dierks seconded the motion.
The motion carried 5-o.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Beagle distributed a tentative schedule of Planning and Zoning Commission
meeting dates for the coming year. Moen informed the Commission of the
names of candidates seeking to fill the vacant seat on the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
Clark moved to adjourn the meeting. Dierks seconded the motion
motion carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned at 8:19 P.M.
Minutes submitted by Kyle L. Kritz
Approved by: K.
aaily q)brks, secretary
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The
PM
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MINUTES
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION APPROM
FORMAL MEETING
JANUARY 7, 1988 - 7:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Cook, Clark, Dierks, Hebert, Scott
MEMBERS ABSENT: Cooper, Wallace
STAFF PRESENT: Boyle, Moen, Kritz
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL:
1. Recommend approval of item Z-8709, an application submitted by
Southgate Development Company to rezone an approximate 1.8 -acre tract
located east of Boyrum Street and north of Olympic Circle from I-1 to
CI -1.
2. Recommend approval of item S-8720, an application submitted by Frantz
Construction Company, Inc., for approval of a preliminary plat for
Village Green, Part XI, a 41 -lot residential subdivision located
south and west of the intersection of Muscatine Avenue and Scott
Boulevard. Commission also recommends waiver of the subdivision
regulation requiring that blocks be a minimum of 200 feet wide for
the following three blocks contained in Village Green, Part'XI.
1. Chamberlain Place between Village Road and Hampton Street,
2. Hampton Street between Chamberlain Place and Hampton Court, and
3. Hampton Street between Hampton Court and Scott Boulevard.
3. Recommend approval of item S-8728, an application made by Bill Knabe
for the extension of Weeber Street.
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Scott called the meeting to order at 7:43 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
There was no public discussion.
CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF DECEMBER 17 1987:
Clark moved to approve the minutes of December 17, 1987. Cook seconded
the motion. The motion carried 5-0.
ZONING ITEMS:
1. -8709. Public discussion of an application submitted by Southgate
Development Company to rezone an approximate 1.8 -acre tract located
east of Boyrum Street and north of Olympic Circle from I-1 to CI -1.
(45 -day limitation period: January 8, 1988.)
Moen reported that there was no new information to report on this
item since the last formal meeting.
Planning 8 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 2
I
Clark moved to approve item Z-8709. Dierks seconded the motion. The
motion carried 5-0.
Z-8710. Public discussion of a request submitted by First National
Bank to rezone property located at 615 East Jefferson Street from
RNC -20, Neighborhood Conservation Residential Zone, to CO -1, Commer-
cial Office zone. (45 -day limitation period: January 25, 1988.)
Moen reported that in 1981 and 1982, landowners of property in the
area identified as the Inner City Area in the 1983 Comprehensive Plan
Update, sought to halt the erosion of the neighborhood caused by
development of the area for multi -family residential use. The area,
over several decades, experienced a state of transition from
neighborhoods of predominantly older, single family detached
residences to much higher density, multi -family development.
Residents of the area requested that the area be downzoned in an
effort to stabilize the neighborhood by removing incentives to
demolish existing structures and reconstruct at higher densities.
Moen indicated that while the mix of multi -family development as a
result of conversion of larger, older structures was not
objectionable, residents were opposed to demolition of existing
structures and the construction of dwellings that did not reflect the
tenor of the residential neighborhood. Conversion of a dwelling unit
from single-family to multi -family use allowed an increase in
available dwelling units while generally maintaining the integrity of
the original structure and thus the neighborhood. In December, 1982,
the RNC -20 zone was established to encourage conversion over
redevelopment and to recognize the validity of existing higher
density apartments by granting them conforming status and, thereby,
perpetuating their existence.
First National Bank, owner of the property at 615 East Jefferson
Street, requests that their property be rezoned from RNC -20 to CO -1,
Commercial Office, to allow expansion of the parking lot serving
Pediatric Associates, the medical clinic located immediately west of
the subject property. Parking areas associated with a use may only
be located within zones in which the principal use is permitted.
Because a medical clinic is not a use permitted in the RNC -20 zone,
the parking lot serving this use may not be located in that zone.
The applicant, therefore, wishes to rezone his parcel from RNC -20 to
CO -1 to allow redevelopment of the site for off-street parking for
the medical clinic, a use allowed in the CO -1 zone.
Staff finds the proposed rezoning from RNC -20 to CO -1 of the property
located at 615 East Jefferson Street to be contrary to the 1983
Comprehensive Plan Update and incompatible with the residential
character of the area and surrounding land use patterns which could
threaten the stability of this neighborhood. Staff, therefore,
recommends the request to rezone this property be denied.
Dierks inquired whether the Historic Preservation Commission had any
comments on this item and whether this property is located in an
existing or proposed historic district. Moen replied that the
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Planning 3 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 3
property is not located in a proposed or established historic
district.
Scott commented that at the informal meeting, legal staff was
requested to outline previous commission decisions regarding the
rezoning of other RNC -20 zoned properties for commercial uses.
Pending the Commission's receipt of that outline from legal staff,
Scott felt that this item should be deferred.
Dierks moved to defer Item Z-8710 to the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion meeting of February 18, 1988. Cook seconded the motion. The
motion carried 5-0.
Z-8711. Public discussion of a request submitted by Iowa City
Landscaping to rezone a 1.32 -acre parcel located at the intersection
of Highway 1, Hudson Avenue and Miller Avenue from P, Public Zone,
and RS -8, Medium Density Single -Family Residential zone, to CI -1,
Intensive Commercial zone. (45 -day limitation period: January 29,
1988.)
Moen reported the applicant wishes to purchase the site to relocate
his existing plant nursery operation from 705 Highway 1 West. The
Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT) parcel is presently zoned P,
Public zone, and RS -8, Medium Density Single -Family Residential zone,
neither of which permit a plant nursery. Upon conveyance of the land
from IDOT to a private entity, the zoning classification must be
changed regardless of the use. Plant nurseries, such as Iowa City
Landscaping, are permitted as of right in the CI -1, Intensive
Commercial zone.
Two factors which need to be evaluated in considering the
appropriateness of this request are 1) the Comprehensive Plan
designation for this general area, and 2) the land use relationship
established through the rezoning. Within the immediate vicinity of
this site, properties to the east, west and south of the site along
Highway 1 are designed for general commercial land use. Based upon
surrounding land use patterns, and the site's frontage on and access
to Highway 1 West, the proposed rezoning is consistent with the
commercial designation of the Comprehensive Plan for properties along
the Highway.
Moen indicated, in this particular case, the fact that the site is
over an acre in size and abuts two local streets and a major highway,
permit the development of the site for any use in the CI -1 zone and
allow that provisions be made to address those aspects of a commer-
cial use which may be less desirable near residential uses. Any
traffic generated by commercial uses in this location can be accom-
modated by access to the site via curbcuts on the southern extremity
of the property onto either Hudson or Miller avenues and to Highway 1
via these streets so that commercial traffic will not be compelled to
use the residential streets to the north. Traffic from the west may
use Benton Street to Miller or Hudson avenues to access the site;
however, traffic from the north, east and south would likely use
Riverside Drive, Highway 6/1 and Old Highway 218 to reach this
r commercial area.
Planning 8 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 4
The site is of sufficient size to allow a building location which can
shield or buffer the residential uses from the commercial activity.
Similarly, sufficient land exists for the development of the site and
provision of a generous vegetation buffer along the northerly and
northeasterly property lines. The minimum performance standards of
the Zoning Ordinance will be required; this includes a planting
screen between any commercial use and any residential use of arbor
vitae planted four feet on center and reaching maturity of at least
six feet. Additionally screening may be required, if deemed
appropriate by the Commission and Council, through a conditional
zoning process.
The staff recommends approval of the request to rezone the IDOT
maintenance facility site from P and RS -8 to CI -1.
Moen also reviewed a memorandum from Karin Franklin regarding the
Commission's question pertaining to the possibility of placing a
traffic signal at the intersection of Miller Avenue or Hudson Avenue
with Highway 1 in connection with the rezoning of the IDOT property
to a commercial use. The necessity of a traffic signal at Orchard
Street or Hudson Avenue has been discussed and counts were done which
revealed that a signal was not warranted for existing conditions.
However, City officials will be meeting with representatives of the
Iowa DOT within the next few weeks to discuss traffic movements on
the entire stretch from Freeway 218 to Riverside Drive. With
continued development along this corridor, need will exist to
accommodate increased traffic and turning movements of this area.
Clark commented that he feels that any discussion of lights must be
based on a comprehensive approach to this area and not just to the
relevant two intersections.
Clark moved to defer item Z-8711 to the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion meeting of January 20, 1988. Clark seconded the motion. The
motion carried 5-0.
EVELOPMENT ITEMS:
S-8716. Public discussion of an application submitted by Metro
Pavers, Inc., for approval of a Large Scale Non -Residential Develop-
ment (LSNRD) plan for property located at 1722 Stevens Drive. (45 -
day limitation period: waived.)
Moen reported that the applicant intends to amend the LSNRD plan to
reflect enclosure of the batch mix plants at the site without
provisions for additional water sources on the property. Staff
should be receiving an amended LSNRD shortly.
Dierks moved to defer item S-8716 to the Planning and Zoning Commis-
sion meeting of January 20, 1988. Cook seconded the motion. The
motion carried 5-0.
S-8720. Public discussion of an application submitted by Frantz
Construction Company, Inc., for approval of a preliminary plat for
Village Green, Part XI, a 41 -lot residential subdivision located
Planning & Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 5
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south and west of the intersection of Muscatine Avenue and Scott
Boulevard. (45 -day limitation period: waived.)
Moen reported that staff has reservations regarding the proposed
preliminary plat of Village Green, Part XI, and its impact on the
design of future subdivisions of land south of the proposed develop-
ment. The original design envisioned for the approximate 200 acre
tract known as Village Green and Village Green South incorporated a
looped collector street known as Village Green Road that was intended
to filter traffic from local residential streets to arterial streets.
Given the size of Village Green and Village Green South tracts, the
collector street was intended to minimize unnecessary traffic on
local streets and facilitate the provision of transit and emergency
services in the area. The subdivision design now proposed for
Village Green, Part XI, obstructs the ability to continue the
collector street concept on the eastern part of the tract. The
continuous or looped design of the collector system is disrupted by
T-ing Village Road into a local street identified as Chamberlain
Place and allowing direct access of single family residential uses
onto these streets. This system fails to immunize new residential
uses from the negative effects of higher traffic volumes by exposing
these uses not only to local traffic accessing individual properties,
but to traffic moving through the neighborhood to get from one end of
the neighborhood to the other. This arrangement is also expected to
hinder the provision of emergency services to the area by
establishing a maze of local streets that must be negotiated by
emergency service providers. Staff maintains that minimization of
the impact of increased traffic on existing development by new
development can be achieved without sacrificing the collector street
concept which is intended to relieve the negative effects of traffic
produced by a sizeable residential development. The staff cannot,
therefore, endorse the street patterns shown on the preliminary plat
of Village Green, Part XI.
Dierks moved to approve the preliminary plat of Village Green, Part
XI, and to recommend that the subdivision regulation requiring that
blocks be a minimum of 200 feet wide be waived for the following
three blocks:
1. Chamberlain Place between Village Road and Hampton Street,
2. Hampton Street between Chamberlain Place and Hampton Court, and
3. Hampton Street between Hampton Court and Scott Boulevard. Clark
seconded the nation.
Dierks commented that she appreciated the extra work put in by the
applicant, neighbors and MMS Consultants in order that this develop-
ment may proceed in a manner that is beneficial to everyone.
Clark commented that his vote of approval for S-8720 was based on
several considerations. First, staff and Commission members alike
have historically been concerned that to the extent possible, the
concerns of the public should be addressed and, in this case, be
directed that additional studies be made in the interest of
satisfying some of those concerns. The developer and his consultant
have gone several extra miles in developing a new development concept
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Planning 8 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 6
plan for the undeveloped area of Village Green, which the Village
Green representatives have endorsed, and a portion of which is
included in this preliminary plat. Clark said he also recognized
that the approval of this preliminary plat will set the stage for a
significant departure from the concept plan developed by the original
developers. While the street patterns are anticipated to be
significantly altered, many of the original development concepts,
though not identical to the original plan, will be retained. Some of
those concepts include private open spaces, identifiable neighborhood
clusters, and internal walkways that interconnect the proposed open
space and neighborhoods with similar features in the existing
development. While the original Village Road loop, in itself, may
have been an excellent concept for facilitating vehicular traffic
movements, the original plan contained a major flaw in that it did
not provide an adequate exit route from the loop. If adequate exit
routes had been required by previous planners or commissions, Clark
felt the Commission would not have been faced with the issues
presented to this Commission by the neighbors. The street layouts,
as proposed, are a significant departure from the original concept
plant; however, careful study of the plan will reveal that traffic
from the new development is being subtly directed toward Scott
Boulevard, and though the original loop had been interrupted with
strategically placed T -intersections, it is still possible to drive
around the Village Green area. Perceived additional and extraneous
traffic, traffic traversing through the Village Green area and
exiting an Wayne Avenue, has been one of the primary concerns of the
neighbors. Though the proposed street patterns will not prevent this
from occurring, the likelihood of significant numbers of outsiders
using the Village Green street system as a shortcut from Scott
Boulevard to southwesterly destination points will be significantly
reduced.
Scott commented that he supported both Clark and Dierks, and that
there has been effective cooperation between all parties. He also
agrees with staff concern over traffic patterns but does not agree
that the looped collector street could relieve conditions in the
area.
The motion was approved 4-0-1; Cook abstained because he is a new
member and did not have the benefit of hearing previous discussion of
this item.
S-8728. Public discussion of a request submitted by Bill Knabe for
the extension of Weeber Street.
Moen reported the applicant is pursuing the extension and construc-
tion of Weeber Street in accordance with an order of the Iowa
District Court in Johnson County. The order of the court provides
for the extension of Weeber Street along the property line and places
the burden of construction on Gordon Russell, one of the abutting
property owners. Approval of the street extension by the City is
provided for in the order; it is within the purview of the Planning
and Zoning Commission to review this proposal.
Planning 8 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 7
The proposed construction complies with City specifications for
roadway materials. The dimensions noted in the cross-section deviate
from the current -standards for the city streets in that the width of
the streets shown is 25 feet rather than the required 28 feet. The
25 -foot dimension is consistent with the existing width of Weeber
Street. Since Weeber Street will probably serve as a local
residential street and eventually tie in with Edingale Drive
extended, another 25 -foot street, it is appropriate that the street
be extended at this dimension. The alignment proposed permits the
continuation of Weeber Street south to an indirect connection with
Edingale Drive or Highway 1. Given the steep grade of Weeber Street
as it exists, a direct connection with Highway 1 and the use of
Weeber Street as a collector street would be ill advised. However,
that question is not and need not be addressed at this point given
the flexibility for continuation of the street that this proposal
presents. Assuming that Weeber Street will function as a local
residential street, the alignment proposed permits development of the
lots on either side of the extension and its potential continuation.
The staff recommends that the proposed extension of Weeber Street be
approved as shown since the extension permits the orderly and
continued development of adjacent properties.
Dierks commented that she was concerned about the need for grading if
Weeber Street is extended due to sight line considerations for
vehicles using the street. Larry Schnittjer of MMS consultants
replied that this has been taken into account and that there will be
filling along the alignment proposed for Weeber Street to smooth the
transition
intend to extend WeeberiStreettafter the ueuphill section
ted that
theyand that
the Additionally,ph
Mr. Knabe commented hat they wanted e behior uto build aphome non
the adjacent property and would like to be connected with a
residential street and not a collector street.
Clark moved to approved item S-8728, preliminary plat for the
extension of Weeber Street. Dierks seconded the motion. The motion
carried 5-0.
OTHER BUSINESS:
I. Discussion of an agreement between Seville Corporation and the City
of Iowa City regarding the rezoning of Southwest Estates and the
provision of certain capital improvements.
Clark commented that he felt that the 907, subdivision completion was
too exers
acting
yet uand more discussion lisdexpe ted. Boyle that the also
noted that the agreement identifies intervening development as the
property lying south of Willow Creek and the County Care Facility,
and west of Deerfield Drive in Hunter's Run Subdivision.
agreement Chairperson f
or the entbetween Sevi noted oCorporation record hconditional
andthe City of IowaCitynwas
received, reviewed and accepted by the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
m
u
s
Planning 3 Zoning Commission
January 7, 1988
Page 8
2. Planning and Zoning Commission Information.
Moen distributed the historic review guidelines to the Planning and
Zoning Commission.
Scott reminded the Commission that the next formal Planning and
Zoning Commission meeting would be on Wednesday the 20th instead of
the regular Thursday night meeting on the 21st.
Clark moved to adjourn the meeting. Cook seconded the motion. The motion
carried 5-0. Meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Minutes submitted by Kyle L. Kritz.
Approved by:
sally erks, secretary
W
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ReyulaR { MEEt'INg
oi-
Y-30 P, M.
"PACLISF, Sigm IN:
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 8, 1987
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM A
MEMBERS PRESENT: Watts, Moore, Parden, Streb, Hulse, Dawson
MEMBERS ABSENT: Stadtlander
STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Stroud, Sueppel, Barnes, Milkman
OTHERS PRESENT: Elizabeth Wolf, Sondra Kaska, David Wilson, Royce
Nelson, Rod Reynolds
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: - None.
MEETING G T�: 9:00 AM
MINUTES:
Minutes of November 10, 1987 were approved on a motion by Hulse, seconded
by Streb, carried 6-0.
ELIZABETH WOLF - INFORMAL REVIEW:
asthe
lstated Seydein n"Policies" handbook. Hesing Coordinator, estated d the dthat �Ms. Wolf tion of eligibility
was denied
eligibility based on two doctor statements: one by Frank S. Gersh, Ph.D.,
dated 11-5-85 and the other by S. Palmer, M.D., dated 5-26-87 which
clearly indicated Ms. Wolf was not capable of living independently.
Elizabeth Wolf appeared with Sondra Kaska, an attorney, and presentation
was in the form of question and answer. Also appearing for Ms. Wolf was
David Wilson, FACT Case Worker.The Housing Commission felt that in this
point and time, additional testimony was not necessary. It was suggested
to Ms. Wolf that persons supporting her desire to live independently
should discuss her situation with Dr. Palmer. A revised statement or
letter negating the first will be necessary to support Elizabeth Wolf's
ability to live independently.
The Iowa City Housing Commission upheld the Housing Coordinator's decision
to deny eligibility based on the two doctor's statements currently on
file.
ROYCE NELSON - INFORMAL REVIEW:
Lyle Seydel, Housing Coordinator, read the definition of family as stated
in the "Policies" handbook. He stated that no evidence was presented to
prove family relationship. Eligibility was denied for a two-bedroom
Voucher. At no time was Mr. Nelson advised he was not eligible for a
one -bedroom. The lack of evidence of family relationship was noted at the
time of final review.
?3
Wj
Y
Iowa City Housing Commission
December 8, 1987
Page 2
Mr. Nelson appeared with Rod Reynolds, his attorney. He presented argu-
ments in favor of his family status. He also presented a letter from Nils
Varney, Ph.D., Staff Neuropsychologist at Veterans Hospital, indicating
that Mr. Nelson should live with someone. This letter completely changed
Mr. Nelson's application. Mr. Seydel would not make any eligibility
determination at this time. Suggested that a new application with verifi-
cation be completed.
The Iowa City Housing Commission upheld Mr. Seydel's original determina-
tion regarding "family" relationship.
HOUSING/RENTAL REHABILITATION - Barnes
914 Iowa Avenue (Duplex) - Amended Rental Rehabilitation
Barnes stated that the waiver has been received, indicating there is no
conflict of interest. Staff is requesting an additional $2,000.00 which
is based on a Rental Rehab Regulation that allows a 3 -bedroom unit to
receive assistance in the amount of $7,000.00 instead of $5,000.00. A
maximum loan of $12,000.00 is therefore being requested for this duplex
which has one 3 -bedroom unit and one 2 bedroom unit. Motion to approve the
loan in the amount of $12,000.00 was made by Moore, seconded by Watts,
carried 6-0.
HOUSING ASSISTANCE PLAN (HAP) - ANNUAL GOALS FOR 1988 - Milkman
Milkman presented the annual housing assistance goals for the period
October 1, 1987 through September 30, 1988. This is the beginning of the
third year for the three-year plan submitted in October, 1985. The HAP
contains:
1. A survey of the local housing stock and an assessment of the housing
assistance needs of the lower income households;
2. An annual local goal for assisted housing units specifying the number
of dwelling units or persons to be assisted; and
3. Identification of general locations of proposed assisted housing.
COORDINATOR'S REPORT - Seydel
Public Housing November rents - $10,781.00. Two move -outs end of Novem-
ber. One unit has been rented.
December - Section 8 Payments:
478 Certificates - $104,049.00
112 Vouchers - $ 30,121.00
15 applications submitted for approval.
9j
Iowa City Housing Commission
December 8, 1987
Page 3
DISCUSSION:
Milkman stated the Housing Rehab would be receiving their first Section
312 Loan, which is no money down and used for major rehabilitation at 4%
interest.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 10:45 AM on a motion by Hulse, seconded by Watts,
carried 6-0.
Next meeting: January 12, 1988
APPROVED:
Gary Watts, Chairperson
u
M
SUBJECT TO BTC APPROVAL
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1987 - 8:00 AM
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Hall, Justis, Twaler, Sumnerwill, Patton
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer
OTHERS PRESENT: Blough, LeValley, Marjorie Strait, Dewey McGuire, Susan
McGuire, Mike Connet, Stephen Cree, Martha Malani
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
Sunmerwill moved to recommend to Council to add $300 to line item 6130 to
support a special population training program to be conducted in conjunction
with the (CPC's) regular access video training workshop. Seconded by Patton.
Unanimously approved.
Sumnerwill proposed that the BTC approve and recommend to Council the FY89
cable TV budget, as revised. Seconded by Hall. Unanimously approved.
Hall moved to recommend to the City Council that the cable TV budget remain
as proposed and that any needed funds to pay City/Heritage lawsuit court fees
be sought outside the approved current line items. Seconded by Justis.
Unanimously approved.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
Hall and Twaler met with Blough to review the service/technical evaluation
sheet developed by their BTC subcommittee. Hall presented a revised farm to
the Commission. Shaffer said the Library will be sending a committee to the
BTC in December concerning their role as NPO or the public access operator
and manager. The BTC reviewed the cable TV budget and made recommendation to
Council concerning same (see Recommendation to Council). The BTC discussed
the upcoming Triannual Review of the cable system. Shaffer and Twaler will
be distributing materials to the BTC relating to this event. Blough took
personal responsibility for ensuring Educational Access Channel 27 School
Board cablecasts are successfully put "on line." Strait stated in meetings
with Heritage that Heritage has pledged support (in the form of materials
cost and cooperation) for special population video training programs. Susan
McGuire expressed appreciation for the BTC's interest in and support of
access and sending staff and Commissioners to cable TV related conferences
and educational events. Susan Mcguire stated the BTC and all others inter-
ested are invited to a quarterly community producers meeting to be held in
the Iowa City Public Library, Room A on December 7, 7:00 p.m. Dewey McGuire
reported the Library produced a program entitled Readathon, in which many
Iowa Citians, including the Mayor and City Manager, each read 15 minutes from
their favorite books. Shaffer reported Detroit's grant proposal to CCN was
not successful. However, several members of CCN did vote for the proposal.
He suggested next year preparing a proposal for CCN well in advance of their
next funding deadline. LeValley gave the CPC quarterly report. In the last
quarter, 62 new shows were created by citizens, representing about 38 hours
of programming. LeValley said about 200 hours of programming have been
97
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
November 17, 1987
Page 2
produced by citizens in the last year. Shaffer said that represents between
4,000 and 6,000 hours of effort on the part of community members that pro-
duced these shows. Heritage recently held an Awards Festival for community
producers and Shaffer complimented Heritage for their work. Blough announced
the donation of equipment to the Library from Heritage and Arts and Enter-
tainment. Blough announced several upcoming programming changes, including:
adding BRAVO to the basic service lineup; adding VH -1 to basic service (a
contemporary music channel); HBO and Cinemax will be in stereo and station
KOCR, a local UHF station in Cedar Rapids, may be added as well. The Conmis-
sion and Council will receive advance notification of the cable rate changes
to take effect January 1, 1988.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 8:00 AM.
APPROVE BTC MINUTES:
Moved by Summerwill, seconded by Patton,
meeting. Unanimously approved with one
graph 5 accepted (changing said to send),
ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS:
to approve the October 20, 1987, BTC
typo correction to final page, para -
Hall stated that he and Twaler met with Bill Blough from Heritage and re-
viewed the service/technical check off sheet being developed to review Heri-
tage's performance. One revision was suggested: that the "additional
factors that affect service" category be reported separately from "regular
service calls" for the reason that these factors (such as an outage) often
affect more than one customer. Twaler repeated an invitation from Heritage
to any commissioners to visit Heritage and observe the activities of a typi-
cal day.
Justis reported that to the best of his knowledge there has been no recent
problem concerning Educational Access Channel 27 cablecasts.
BTC DISCUSSION AND/OR ACTION REGARDING THE ACCESS/NPO SUBCOMMITTEE:
Shaffer reported that he spoke with Lolly Eggers, Director of the Library,
and stated that the Library should be sending a communication to the BTC
concerning the Library functioning as an NPO to operate and manage public
access responsibilities in December. Twaler suggested parceling out work
involving the NPO to a BTC subcommittee if the work involved becomes too time
consuming for the regular BTC meeting schedule. He also suggested it might
be helpful to request a representative from the Library to attend the next
BTC meeting if their communications regarding the NPO arrive by then. Shaffer
stated that the previous Access/NPO subcommittee did review access -related
contracts that exist in other cities. These documents can be reviewed in
Shaffer's office. The discussion concerning the formation of an Access/NPO
subcommittee was tabled until the next meeting.
VA
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
November 17, 1987
Page 3
CABLE TV BUDGET:
Shaffer distributed copies of the most recent version of the City Cable TV
budget. The cable budget now amounts to $108,000 due to salary adjustments
for Shaffer, Bailey and McGuire made by the Finance Department. Shaffer
briefed the BTC on why certain line items exist in the cable TV budget.
Shaffer stated that a number of the items in the budget were decided by
previous cable commissions, such as line item 9500 Transfers, involving
520,000+. The transfers amount includes a City payback of $5,436 annually.
This is for reimbusement to the City for general funds that were put into
original City cable franchise developments (before a franchise fee was col-
lected). The Council is to be paid back everything owed plus 9% interest.
This payment schedule is stretched out over the entire life of the fran-
chise. A previous cable commission also decided to pay one half of the AV
lab Asst. and public accessPosition
activities. Alsn the o rincluded The An the Transfers V Lab Asst. ubudget Ais the
equipment replacement fund. This was established to replace all of the NTIA
grant video equipment the City received in 1981. Money is put into this fund
annually. There are also funds transferred to the library annually to re-
place this equipment as necessary. Shaffer stated that in the past the cable
TV division has always had a budget reserve. This money stays in a carryover
account separated from General Funds. Shaffer said that although not pro-
jected or included in this proposed budget, there will be court fees in the
coming year given the City/Heritage litigation. Since there is no longer a
cable TV budget reserve (which has been used to pay such court fees over the
last 1 1/2 years), there is some question as to where future court fee money
will come from. Hall moved to recommend to City Council that the cable TV
budget remain intact as proposed and that any needed funds to pay City/Heri-
tage lawsuit court fees be sought elsewhere than current line items. Sec-
onded by Justis. Unanimously approved.
Shaffer explained that 8160 professional services, $4,084, is the amount of
money the cable budget pays back to City administration and to City legal
staff for their assistance to the BTC and to City staff. Shaffer stated that
the "temporary employee" item is an intern incentive program. The intern
considered to have done the most outstanding job receives $150. Interns are
not paid outside of this award.
Twaler proposed the BTC recommend to Council that $300 be added to this
budget to support the effort to assist special populations in using the video
access facilities in the CPC. Sumnerwill moved to recommend to Council to
add $300 to line 6130 to support a special populations training program to be
conducted in conjunction with the Community Programming Center's (CPC) regu-
lar access video training workshops. Seconded by Patton. Unanimously ap-
proved.
Summerwill proposed that the BTC approve and recommend to Council the FY89
budget only, as revised (including the $300 for special populations train-
ing). Seconded by Hall. Unanimously approved.
0.1
M
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
November 17, 1987
Page 4
TRIANNUAL REVIEW:
Shaffer stated that the last BTC packet sent out contained the responsibili-
ties of the BTC concerning the Triannual Review. The Triannual Review takes
place on or about the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th anniversaries of the origination
franchising date of 1979. Shaffer also said that he will send out copies of a
document received from Herbst and Thue, a law firm and cable consultant
agency out of Minneapolis. This document states the range of municipal
authority granted by the 1984 Cable Act, which should be helpful to the BTC
in defining the parameters of the upcoming TV Triannual Review.
Twaler stated that he and Shaffer have discussed beginning work on the
Triannual Review in January or February so as to finish by May or June.
Shaffer said that the Triannual Review should include, at minimum, one public
hearing. This is required by the ordinance. He said that briefly put the role
of the Commission in the Triannual Review is to review cable company perform-
ance and community needs concerning cable TV, and to project what future
needs may be (regarding cable TV). Such findings should result in reconmen-
dation to City Council.
EDUCATIONAL ACCESS CABLE CHANNEL 27:
Blough stated that at this time, rather than allowing others access to the
cable TV hub site, he is personally taking the responsibility of ensuring
that cablecasts on Educational Access Channel 27, and specifically the School
Board meetings, are successfully conducted.
TRAINING FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS:
Marjorie Strait stated that she spoke with Blough and LeValley concerning
special populations video training needs. She stated Blough said Heritage
would take of training cost materials. Strait introduced Dr. Martha Milani,
from Kirkwood Community College. Milani is a coordinator of adult illiteracy
programs in this area.
Strait reported on a short-term need for community producers and for the
Community Programming center. She asked for time on December's agenda to
discuss in depth the need for an identifiable users group. Also she stated
the importance of community information meetings so as to inform the public
now concerning the creation of an NPO.
Because of the BTC's already crowded agenda in December, Sumnerwill proposed
to Strait to prepare and submit an outline of what she wants to report on to
the Commission. Shaffer suggested if he received Strait's outline by the
time he sends out the next BTC packet (December 4) he would include her
material.
Sunmerwill expressed her concern in developing the special populations train-
ing program. She and Hall emphasized the need for everyone to be aware of
the limited resources the BTC has in supporting this effort. Blough said
that Heritage is willing to work with any and all people involved to lay the
groundwork for this program.
a
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
November 17, 1987
Page 5
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
Susan McGuire told the Commission how great she thinks their interest and
support of access is. She also said she believes it is important to fund BTC
members and staff so they can attend continuing education activities and
conferences. Shaffer reported that there are funds in the Travel and Educa-
tion budget for a BTC representative and staff to attend such events.
McGuire stated that as a BTC member she had attended and encourages all
current Commissioners to attend National Federation of Local Cable Programmer
conference and events. She said that every Commission member's input is
greatly needed, appreciated, and noticed. McGuire said she also represents
Access Iowa City. Access Iowa City is having a regular meeting November 18
at the Iowa City Public Library where they will be planning for another
Quarterly Community Producer meeting. Access Iowa City, the Library, and the
Grant Committee will be working together to facilitate the needs of the
community video producers. This next Community Producer's quarterly meeting
will beco-sponsored by all of these organizations and will be held Monday
evening, December 7, at 7:00 PM in the Iowa City Public Library, Room A.
LeValley informed the Commission that Heritage is providing the information
that's been requested of them by Access Iowa City. Heritage will provide that
same information to any one who want to convene a community producer meet-
ing.
Dewey McGuire stated that for the last year the Library has been averaging
about 12 to 18 video programs a month. One recent program' entitled the
Readathon, involved 48 people from around the community, including the Mayor
and City Manager, reading 15 minutes from their favorite books.
Shaffer stated he and Doyle Detroit attended the CCN meeting. Detroit's
proposal (supported by the BTC) was submitted to CCN. He reported that there
was great competition for the CCN funds. Although Detroit did not get the
funding, the Chairperson and two or three other CCn members did vote for the
proposal, which shows some interest and support. Shaffer suggested preparing
a proposal for CCN well in advance of their next funding deadline.
LeValley reported that community producers made the same amount of program-
ming this quarter as they have in the past. This includes 62 new shows
producing a total of 37 hours and 58 minutes of programming this last quar-
ter. The community producers have produced 278 new shows for 196 hours of
programming in the last year. Shaffer noted that the 196 hours of program-
ming represent between 4,000 to 6,000 hours of effort on the part of commu-
nity members that produced these shows.
Concerning the Heritage Awards Program, LeValley said that next year Heritage
plans to have more categories, more special awards and more recognition for
all the producers. Shaffer complimented LeValley and Heritage staff for the
job they did on the Awards Program for local community video producers.
Slough announced that on December 3, in conjunction with Arts and Entertain-
ment, Heritage will be donating a VCR and color monitor for use at the Iowa
City Public Library. There will be a formal presentation of the equipment at
the Library. Invitations will be sent out to attend. Also Arts ad Enter-
tainment will be providing valuable tapes and some text material.
Broadband Tel ecomnunications Commission
November 17, 1987
Page 6
On November 1 (BRAVO) was added to the basic service lineup and is no longer
a pay service. There will be numerous other programming changes in January.
Discovery channel will be on Channel 5. Also, VH -1, a contemporary music
channel service, will be added. VH -1 will "surround" American Movie Classics
programs. Black Entertainment programs will be moved to "wrap around" BRAVO,
which will essentially expand BET's programming. HBO/Cinemax will be avail-
able in stereo. Heritage is working on including KOCR, a new UHF station
operating out of Cedar Rapids on Channel 28, into their line-up. Also the
Commission will be receiving copies of the subscriber price and rate changes.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Justis, seconded by Patton, to adjourn. Unanimously approved.
Adjournment at 9:43 AM.
Respectfully submitted,
Drew Sh ffer
's
Subject to BTC Approval
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1987 - 8:00 A.M.
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Hall, Justis, Twaler, Sumnerwill
MEMBERS ABSENT: Patton
MEMBERS EXCUSED: Patton
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Schuler, Helling
OTHERS PRESENT: LaValley and Scott of Heritage, Marjorie Hayden -Strait,
Dewey McGuire, Susan McGuire, Lida Cochran, Doyle
Detroit
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
The Archive subcommittee has reviewed the local community produced pro-
grams and will be reviewing evaluation reports to recommend to the ICPL
and Heritage which programs should be stored and archived.
Twaler suggested dividing the cable TV Triannual Review into four areas
and assigned a Commissioner to each area, including financial, technical,
service, and programming. The timeframes and structure for the Triannual
Review were also established.
Shaffer gave a history of the Non -Profit Organization (NPO) alternative
available to the City. Shaffer discussed three areas of consideration for
the BTC to assist them in determining whether an NPO is the best and most
viable alternative for access in Iowa City. The three areas included
survival of access; level of performance and success of access; and the
NPO as a viable alternative.
The BTC requested 1986 and '87 financial statements from Heritage includ-
ing Heritage's Iowa City income, budget and especially the CPC (Community
Programming Center) budget.
The BTC endorsed as survey of TCI and Heritage cable systems regarding
what they are offering cities in the way of access services and opera-
tional costs in new franchises and renewals since January, 1986.
Shaffer requested any documentation from Heritage concerning a phone
µ survey of Iowa City subscribers and their awareness of Channel 26.
LeValley stated this survey showed most cable subscribers were aware of
Channel 26.
Strait suggested more than one public hearing for the Triannual Review is
necessary. She also suggested setting up a transition team and mentioned
Richard Brass as one passible consultant in this area. Such a term would
9�
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 22, 1987
Page 2
explore the ramifications of transition should an NPO be recommended.
Strait stated she felt mandatory quarterly producer meetings are necessary
for community producers. LeValley stated he feels it is not necessary to
hold such mandatory quarterly meetings.
Susan McGuire reported on a successful voluntary community producer meet-
ing sponsored by Access Iowa City, ICPL and Heritage Grant Committees.
Dewey McGuire reported Heritage and Arts and Entertainment donated equip-
ment and tapes to the ICPL.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 8:00 a.m.
APPROVE BTC MINUTES:
Moved by Summerwill, seconded by Justis, to approve the November 17, 1987,
BTC minutes. Unanimously approved.
ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM COMMISSIONERS:
Hall stated that the Technical and Service Subcommittee did not meet. Bill
Blough was not available.
Paul LaValley reported that nearly every tape has been viewed by the
Archive Subcommittee. The Subcomnittee is now in the process of reviewing
the evaluation reports to recommend which tapes will be archived.
TRIANNUAL REVIEW III DISCUSSION:
Twaler suggested dividing the report into four sections, with each Commis-
sioner being assigned to a section. This will allow Twaler and Shaffer to
assist where and when needed. The assigned sections are: Financial,
Summerwill; Programming, Patton; Service, Hall; Technical, Justis. Each
Commissioner is to submit an outline of each assigned area for the January
meeting. The outline should include the scope of work to be done, how it
will be done, and any problems or questions. The cable TV Triannual
Review public hearing was tentatively set for February. All written
reports should be turned in by March and reviewed by April with Commission
approvals in the month of May or June.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION (NPO) DISCUSSION:
Shaffer described the NPO as an option the Commission may examine. The
City included this option in a contract agreement with Heritage in 1984
twhen hreeareasHeritage
of conceronedealh ngswithmthisshaffer option whit h heewillar overesently
today.
These include the survival of cable TV access in Iowa City; the level of
performance of access; and the viability of the alternatives to the cur-
rent access operation provided by Heritage.
m
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 22, 1987
Page 3
The 1984 Cable Act includes a stipulation that cable companies do not have
to provide for access services and access operational expenditures in
renewal situations or new franchises. Iowa City's renewal date is 1994.
Shaffer suggested it may be helpful for the BTC to know how TCI and Heri-
tage are dealing with cities, especially concerning the new franchises and
renewals (especially where access services and operational provisions are
concerned). Results from this research may indicate what TCI and Heritage
have in store for Iowa City at renewal time. Such information may make a
decision regarding the NPO an easier one. Shaffer stated that of TCI and
Heritage owned cable systems, approximately ten percent in the U.S, go
through some type of franchise renewal each year. Shaffer offered to
research for the BTC what access services and access operational expenses
are being offered by TCI and Heritage to cities in these new franchises
and renewals. The BTC requested 1986 and 1987 financial statements from
Heritage, especially Heritage's 1986 and '87 income, budget and the CPC's
budget. In addition, Shaffer suggested and the BTC endorsed a survey of
other TCI and Heritage systems. The purpose of the survey is to determine
what access services and operational expenses TCI and Heritage have been
offering in renewals and new franchises obtained since January, 1986.
Concerning the performance levels and success of access, Shaffer suggested
gathering information from the community by means of phone polling or
survey. Shaffer suggested that after seven years of access in.Iowa City,
there are some experiences to learn from. The original intent of access
to be well integrated into the community, well known and used in the
community, respected in the community have largely not been met. Shaffer
said many citizens have approached him with what they considered to be
important needs to be met before access can be successful here, including:
facilitating the production of programs for organizations and institutions
that need productions done but lack the expertise, staff and time to do it
themselves; more programs being played -back on access channels, specific-
ally access channel 26; the integration of one-half inch equipment into
the CPC facilities (in addition to the three-quarter equipment); better
channel identification; and more editing equipment. Shaffer informed the
Commission that one thing the NPO alternative probably could not offer is
additional equipment because of a set budget stipulated in the transfer
contract, which includes $125,000 plus CPI escalator. The visibility of
the NPO as an alternative to the current cable company management and
operation of access is what the BTC will determine and then make a recom-
mendation to Council. The Iowa City Public Library is one entity which
has been considered as an NPO candidate.
Shaffer addressed and clarified certain items contained in the communica-
tion received by the Commission from Lolly Eggers, Library Director. In
dealing with the library's concern that the franchise may end by 1991,
Shaffer said the City's contract is in full effect until the year 1994.
The CPI escalator will be triggered only after the NPO is put into opera-
tion. Shaffer agreed with Eggers that beyond the year 1994, there is no
guarantee that any money will come from the cable company with regard to
support for access services and provisions, that a very careful agreement
would be necessary between the BTC, Library and Council if the Library
served as the NPO. Shaffer said that a few things not mentioned in the
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Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 22, 1987
Page 4
packet that were agreed upon by the BTC and the Library were: what
qualifications the NPO Coordinator may need; the role of the user Advi-
sory Group; the need for the NPO to act as facilitator.
Shaffer said that if there were no NPO, access in 1994 may only consist of
whatever the City could require in the way of access channel space and
perhaps access equipment and facilities.
Shaffer stated that to his knowledge, there are presently the equivalent
of three and one-half full-time persons employed by Heritage to work with
access related functions. LeValley stated these persons also spend time
on commercial productions for Heritage. The $125,000 NPO budget does
include funds for at least three full-time positions that would spend all
their time on access related functions.
Paul LaValley commented that Heritage recently conducted a phone survey
and found that most cable subscribers are aware of channel 26. Shaffer
requested any documentation regarding this survey by Heritage.
Shaffer introduced Lida Cochran, former Director of the Visual Scholars
program at the University of Iowa who spoke in support of the NPO concept.
Shaffer suggested that in order to determine the viability and need for an
NPO, three areas the BTC may want to consider include: the survival of
access beyond 1994; the current and future levels of performance concern-
ing access; and the potential for success of an NPD and that of the cur-
rent access management and operation by the cable company.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
Marjorie Hayden -Strait, Community Producer, distributed party invitations.
The party will be taped and shown on channel 26.
She said that public access and the Community Programming Center need to
become separate issues. The population in this community changes at a
very high rate. Because of this, she feels for proper communication, the
city needs more than one public hearing for the Triannual Review and the
NPO. She suggested setting up a consultant service or transition team to
explore all other ramifications of transition. Richard Brass was men-
tioned as a possible consultant. She is willing to help with other commu-
nity awareness forums in order to spread information about access and the
Triannual Review matters throughout the community. Regarding public
access, Strait suggested letting the paid employees of the CPC hold re-
quired quarterly meetings. She feels the community producer volunteers
need this time together for proper communication.
Susan McGuire, a member of Access Iowa City, reported that Access Iowa
City, along with the Heritage Grant Committee and the Iowa City Public
Library, co-sponsored the third quarterly meeting. This meeting was
purely voluntary. She said that the meeting was well -attended and pro-
duced much input. Access Iowa City will be happy to continue and support
these quarterly meetings. However, if another company or organization
cares to facilitate these meetings, that would be fine too.
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Broadband Telecommunications Commission
December 22, 1987
Page 5
Paul LaValley stated that he does not feel it necessary to hold mandatory
quarterly meetings. Access Iowa City, along with the Library and Grant
Committee co-sponsorship of these voluntary meetings is sufficient from
his perspective.
Dewey McGuire reported that Heritage and the Arts Entertainment channel
donated equipment and tapes to the library. This equipment included a
color monitor and a stereo VCR.
ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Twaler, seconded by Sumnerwill, to adjourn. Unanimously
approved. Adjournment at 9:27 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
rew Shaf er
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