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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-11-27 Correspondence ~JCC rr'.... m e m o Date: November 6, 2007 To: City Clerk From: Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering Planner ~ Re: Item for November 27,2007 City Council Meeting; Install (1) NO PARKING CORNER TO HERE sign at the southwest corner of the Westgate Street I Keswick Drive intersection As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 38 of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council of the following action: Action: Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A (10); Install (1) NO PARKING CORNER TO HERE sign at the southwest corner of the Westgate Street I Keswick Drive intersection. Comment: This action is being taken to provide adequate sight distance for turning movements at the Westgate Street I Keswick Drive intersection. Mgr/agd/kr -keswick.doc ~ 5 = = --' "2.0 :z:: >3 0 -n ....::: I - ,,--.. ... ,- '.-) Cf) \ ~C) m ,'- ~ - rn 0 -:JJ 0-- CE 2"/'- :z: )> ~ N ~JCC ...r'.... m e m 0 Date: November 6, 2007 To: City Clerk From: Kent Ralston; Acting Traffic Engineering Planner tAl--- Re: Item for November 27,2007 City Council Meeting; Install (2) 20 MPH School Speed Limit sign assemblies on Greenwood Drive near Roosevelt Elementary School As directed by Title 9, Chapter 1, Section 38 of the City Code, this is to advise the City Council of the following action: Action: Pursuant to Section 9-1-3A (1), Install (2) 20 MPH School Speed Limit sign assemblies on Greenwood Drive near Roosevelt Elementary School. Comment: This action is being taken at the request of the Roosevelt Elementary School Principal to establish a school speed limit zone near the Roosevelt Elementary School property. Mgr/agd/kr -rooseveltschool. doc ......, 0 = = ~O -.I :z ):>-1 0 11 C)-< ..c: I r ~--l () co .::<r m !T1 :D- O O:D :x ;z: /', co )> + N STATE HISTORICAL I SOCIETY of OWA I~~) I FIL.E'O A Division of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Z007 NOV 16 Pl'l12: 3/ November 9, 2007 C'\'T\/ ,"" '_./,.,' / )11' IvLC'\i\ IO\^/A Crry rONA Honorable Ross Wilburn Mayor, City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Mayor Wilburn: I am writing to express the State Historical Society of Iowa's support of the effort currently underway to preserve the historic Isaac Wetherby Cottage at 935 East Market Street. We understand that a group of concerned citizens is currently developing plans to move the building to a new site in order to save itfrom demolition, We wholeheartedly agree that this historic residence is worthy of preservation and we offer our support and assistance in helping Iowa City save the home of this significant American artist and photographer. Wetherby's work as a painter and photographer has been exhaustively documented by Marybeth Slonneger who authored the book Wethe~J Gallery in 2006. Slonneger's study of Wetherby's life and career complements the research of a number of other scholars who have considered his contributions to American art and photography. It is also worth noting that Wetherby's work is r~presented in the collections at the New-York Historical Society, the Boston Athenreum" the State Historical Society of Iowa, and other Midwestern museums. Wetherby's body of work-his painted and photographic portraits, landscapes and cityscapes-is an extraordinary record of life in Iowa during the nineteenth century. While Wetherby left a large and important pictorial record, his studios do not survive leaving his residence as the only extant ptoperty associated with him. The Wetherby Cottage is a fine example of a mid-nineteenth century residential building and appears to retain a great deal of architectural integrity despite the application of non-historic materials over time. We believe that the building has state (and possibly national) significance and is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places because ofWetherhy's prominence as a nineteenth-century artist and photographer. The fact that the cottage is the last remaining building associated with Wetherby makes it even more critical that this building be preserved. Sincerely, ~Jd& Lowell J. Soike, Ph.D. Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer cc: Terry Trueblood, Parks and Recreation Tim Weitzel, Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission Mary Bennett Maryheth Slonneger Helen Buford, Friends of Historic Preservation Sunil Terdalkar, Planning and Community Development 600 EAST LocUST STREET, DES MOINES, IA 50319-0290 P: (515) 281-3306; EMAIL: WWELL.SOIKE@IOWA.GOV IX: discerning eye ~ ~ 119 E. Washington St Iowa City, IA 52240 www.discerningeyeoptical.com P: 319.338.6800 F: 319.338.2165 info@discerningeyeoptical.com o :Eo ~=< <, ) ~() r- ~m O:D ~/" )> ......, = = ...... ::z: o -< I co -n r- h1 o > :Jt o November 5, 2007 City Council of Iowa City Attn: Iowa City Council Members, Communtty Development Office, Tracy Hightshoe and staff 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Council Members and Staff: We at Discerning Eye want to extend our thanks and appreciation to all who helped make it possible for us to receive the City Development Block Grant loan in July. We were able to utilize the loan to retain full-time staff, increase inventory and bring in an optometrist. As we are fast approaching our 2nd anniversary, the future looks bright and we appreciate the opportunity to be part of Iowa City's vibrant downtown. Again, thanks to all of you who were so helpful to us in this matter. ( 5- /~K ~nnL~chru~~iJf Discerning Eye ~ L!alliJ Marian Karr From: Kent Ralston Sent: Monday, November 05,200710:09 AM To: 'ladLperegrine@att.net' Cc: *City Council; John Yapp Subject: Bicycling in Iowa City Hello Amanda Horn - Your correspondence below was forwarded to me for response. Bicycling plays a very important role in our community for both recreation and transportation. The City of Iowa City actively works towards making our community more bike-friendly and has taken numerous steps to ensure bicyclists can enjoy safe travels. In fact, Iowa City was recently awarded an 'honorable mention' for a Bicycle Friendly Community application that was submitted on behalf of the City of Iowa City. You can find more information on this program at http://www .bicyclefriendlycommunity .0rQ/. The City of Iowa City also has an extensive trails system and constructs wide sidewalks on new arterial streets. In addition, the City has a representative on the Johnson County Council of Governments Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee which deals with metropolitan issues related to bicycles. You can view the area trails map here: http://www .iccog .org/documents/trailsmapltr.pdf. The City of Iowa City City Council takes bicycle and pedestrian issues very seriously and is always available to the public to collect input on these issues. Let me know if you have any further questions... and good luck on your project. Kent A. Ralston Assistant Transportation Planner Johnson County Council of Governments 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, Iowa 52240 319.356.5253 From: lady-peregrine@att.net (mailto: lady-peregrine@att.net] Sent: Thursday, November 01, 2007 11:28 AM To: Council Subject: Bicycling in Iowa City Hello, my name is Amanda Horn, and I'm a senior at City High. I'm presently doing a project for my State & Local government class on a local issue; mine is Iowa City's bikey-ness, if you will, including what roll bicycling plays in our community, how bike-friendly the city is, and what (if any) changes are being made to accomodate. I was wondering if there was any insight you could give me on the topic. Has the Council thought about this at all? If not, it might be worth thinking about. If so, what are some of those details? Thank you for your time, -Amanda Horn 11/5/2007 ~ Marian Karr From: Steve Goetzelman [sgoetzelman@hotmail.com] Sent: Friday, November 02,20072:59 PM To: dtaiowacity@gmail.com; Council Subject: Snow On Downtown Bike Racks Hello again! I am contacting you regarding the snow clearing policies of downtown Iowa City. We are rapidly approaching the snow season and there is a problem in Iowa City with snow that has been cleared from sidewalk space being piled onto bicycle racks. As a dedicated cycle commuter who rides year round I can tell you it is very frustrating to have to heave my bike into a rack piled high with snow so I can lock it as best I can to however much of the rack is sticking out. Just getting to the rack often involves standing in the deep piles of snow which are often slippery, especially as the season wears on. This is a very easy problem to fix. I have spoken with Terry Trueblood at the City and he informed me that most racks downtown are the responsibilities of the businesses they are located in front of. The city's policy is to keep racks they are responsible for cleared and I have seen this is the case at the Library and in a few other places that they are responsible for. If there is an easy way to get a message to all downtown businesses to tell them to not pile snow onto bike racks I think that would solve the problem. The racks are not "dead" space to be used as snow storage and Iowa City boasts a large group of year round cyclists who would appreciate the consideration of keeping their parking spaces clear just as the parking spaces for cars are kept clear. Thank you for your time. Steve Goetzelman 632 Reno St Iowa City 325-1359 Climb to the top of the charts! Play Star Shuffle: the word scramble challenge with star power. Play Now! 11/2/2007 ~. -- Ul!ZlJ 4301 320th Street NE Iowa City, IA 52240 September 30, 2007 Iowa City City Council City Hall 410 E Washington Street Iowa City ,Iowa 5224() Dear City Council, I don't want you to build a road through our property. It will get rid of my fun space that will be no more fun down by my creek. There will be even more traffic and people will not get home any faster. Lots of people love to hunt down there. If you get rid of that then where is everyone going to hunt at? Then more people are going to hit deer and there will be more dead deer on the roads. Are you going to get rid of all of the animals that live there? There will be no more room for our cows, and they need that room to live or they will die. We can't take any more tractor rides for our family, and all of us love to take the tractor rides. It only happens once a year, and we all love that day that we get to do that If you take that away from us we are going to be very mad. So please don't build a road down by our creek! Sincerely, '~~jYl) it( I-. n/1 n J J) Ryan Hame~ w v' lJUVO 0 f"o.;) <:;:) = ~,(J -... 2: P:=j <::1 -<' ...;;:: 11 0 I ---10 co r- ! ,-< r-- ITl IT! -0 021 :x r-1 ~/'. N '-.....J .. )> w C) li<iD 4 8 FIL.ED Z007 NOV -8 PM 4: 12 Dear Current and Future City Council Members, Cny r-"LCRf< . v 1_ Well we had a vote on the 21 issue last night BVT before you breathel~~~ 0~~~et9~A should be aware that this battle has just begun and you will certainly be at the center of it. As the result of last nights vote, it is now you who must make the tough decisions to rectify the major binge drinking problem that exists in Iowa City and the problem is centered rightin our own downtown. Before I go any further, let me commend Amy Correia, Dee Vanderhoef, Ross Wilburn, and Mike Wright for stepping up and putting their names in the "Vote YES" ad in the Tuesday Press Citizen. I really appreciate that kind of strength of will and character, especially for Dee and Mike who were involved in a contested election. They really put themselves at risk of alienating the "NO" voters. It really tells me something when someone is willing to put their desired election on the line to stand up for something they know is the right thing to do. It was certainly a difference maker for me in how I voted !!! So what did you take from last nights election?? Well one thing that I took from it was the fact that the property owning, long term residents of this community (who have staked their lives and their families here) voted 2 to 1 to close our bars to 19 and 20 year olds after 10 PM. I can make that statement because everyone from the county auditor on down will confidently tell you that safely 5000 of the "NO" votes came from VI students. You now need to choose whether you will take your mandate from those who will be here voting for a long time to come or those who are here for a very short time of their lives and who ONL Y vote when something near and dear to their hearts (like drinking alcohol) is at stake. Personally, I would choose to listen to those voters who are the backbone of this community. So why do you need to take action?? Well I think everyone of you will admit that we have a major problem on our hands. The old line that "they're just being college students" doesn't work so well when the average binge drinking rate on college campuses around the country is 44% and here at VI we an boast of a 69% rate. As a person who has both a Bachelors and Masters Degree from the VI and is the parent of a current VI student and 3 VI graduates, I can tell you that being recognized in that manner really makes me proud. Of course I'm being facetious. In reality it makes me sad, angry, and frustrated, depending on the time you might see me and the topic we might address. I am saddened by the thoughts of those students who are in the early throes of a life of alcoholism which was born right here in our city. I am angered by the sex crimes, assaults on others, vandalism, driving under the influence, and other alcohol related crimes that occur at too great a rate. I am frustrated because very little meaningful action is being taken to curb these problems and to re-claim a downtown which right now no sober, clear thinking adult would venture into at night. (jyc;; So what can you do to address these issues?? One very positive response would be to make entry into the bars the purview of only those who legally can purchase alcohol. This would be a positive step because the experts will tell you that limiting access to bars DOES result in a reduction of binge drinking. Just ask the folks at Iowa State (42%) and most universities across the country who have the 21 rule already and are identified with a normal or below normal rate of binge drinking. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to make that determination because EVERY university community across the country has house parties but NOT every university community allows minors access to the bars. Just compare the binge drinking rates between the two and you will find a very definite correlation. If you are still not willing to take that bold step, even though 2 out of every 3 long term, voting residents of this community would strongly support you in that effort, there are certainly other things that can be done. One thing would be to deny the renewal of alcohol licenses based on a bar's history of profiting from the illegal sale of alcohol to minors. If you want to know which bars are the major offenders you only have to go as far as your own Chiefof Police to find that information. I know there are many other steps that could be taken by you as City Council members and I strongly urge you to identify those steps through the formation or re-formation of a task force whose recommendations you will accept and act upon. That task force needs to be comprised of members of the community AND university alike who have a genuine interest in the health and well being of our young people (that would EXCLUDE the bar owners who obviously only see these kids as a meal ticket and their self appointed alcohol advisory committee is widely recognized as nothing short of a BIG JOKE). Then you MUST be willing to take the necessary action that such a task force would recommend. I certainly hope you agree that this issue CANNOT be about money, about the threats of a reduced music scene (other venues would be initiated to fill this void), or about the threats of mass house parties (new alternative activities, the new keg registration law, and our current house party ordinances would limit their growth). What this issue MUST be about is protecting the health and welfare of young people. The value of a human life (even if it's only one) MUST far outweigh any other issue. Please act with that in mind. .--~1l1~ Bruce Maurer 610 2nd Avenue Iowa City 52245 r-.:1 0 = = --' :2:0 z )>=:::i c:> II -< ..or.::: 0 I r- -/"-..... O'J -J\..~ m ::-<..r -u -rn 0 .- :::D :::: O~ :.'2:/'> .r:- .. )> N ~ ~ Marian Karr From: Kendall Gregory [kendallgregory7@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, November 12, 2007 6:40 PM To: Council Subject: Homeless Hi there, my name is Kendall James Gregory and I am a student at the University ofIowa. I was just curious as to why YOU (as a collective unit) have yet to do anything about all of the homeless people that aimlessly walk the Pedestrian Mall every minute of every day begging students for loose change. I walk to my classes everyday from my apartment and am confronted at least twice by the exact same people who can't seem to make use of all of the money they receive from generous civilians. Yes, this probably sounds harsh and irrational, but I didn't mind it at first. Coming from a low income family I know what it is like to be short of monetary funds, but now it seems that there are more and more people joining in on the charades, including younger adults. As a student in my fourth year here, the only thing I see our fine policemen and women doing is trying to bust students for either drinking underage or parking on the wrong side of the street on a weekday. It is rediculous. Never in my life have I been to a city that is so motivated to make a buck from its younger crowd. I think as the top officials in this city, it is up to you to start doing something about the formentioned problems I am nagging you with. Start using your law enforcement officers to kindly persuade people from begging for money everyday. Not only is it annoying, but it makes our city look bad. Who wants to walk through the Pedestrian Mall to Cold Stone Creamery only to be asked by 10 people for their money and to be ticketed by a police official for crossing the street at the wrong time? Also, if at all possible, I would love a detailed reasoning behind the parking ordeal, besides making a killing in profit, of course. Why is it that we are unable to park on both sides of a street ifthere is enough room for cars to pass though??? 11/13/2007 Page 1 of2 Marian Karr From: Garry and Betsy Klein [the3rdiowa@mchsi.com] Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2007 7:09 AM To: Council; Joe Bolkcom; Vicki.Lensing@legis.state.ia.us; tneuzil@co.johnson.ia.us; Imeyers@co.johnson.ia.us; sstutsma@co.johnson.ia.us; rsullivan@co.johnson.ia.us; pharney@co.johnson.ia.us Cc: crissy@shelterhouseiowa.org; Andy Johnson; Steven Rackis; A Correia; Bob Untiedt; Bryan R. Alexander; FAIRSC@yahoogroups.com; Charles Eastham; Nancy-Haley Subject: Fannie Mae Survey Finds Overwhelming Majority of Americans Think More Effort is Needed to Address Homelessness To concerned and motivated public, city, county, and state officials, Below is a summary of a study conducted by Fannie Mae with results that has a local bearing. There is a link to the full study at the bottom of the e-mail. Please consider this in light of funding for current and future human service and housing needs. Clearly, this is a great example of where private/public/NGO/government partnerships are needed to communicate pool resources to make needed change. Some questions to consider: - What would a similar poll in our communities would reveal? _ Since last year's increase to funding of the Shelter House and other related services, what progress has been made to improve the transition from homelessness to affordable housing? - What outcomes do we use as a community to measure success? Yours sincerely, Garry Klein 628 2nd Ave Iowa City, IA 52245 Survey Finds Overwhelming Majority of Americans Think More Effort is Needed to Address Homelessness Nearly Half View Lack of Affordable Housing as a Major Cause WASHINGTON, DC -- According to a new Gallup poll released by Fannie Mae (FNM/NYSE) today, more than nine in ten Americans (92%) believe more effort is needed across the nation to address the issue of homeless ness, and nearly a third (28%) of Americans indicate they were at one point concerned that they may not have a place to live. The survey also reveals that 48% of Americans indicate lack of affordable housing is a major cause contributing to homelessness, and 45% believe home foreclosures are a major factor. Also, nearly two- thirds (65%) of Americans believe job loss/unemployment is a major factor contributing to homelessness, while more than half (51 %) think that the inability to pay medical expenses is a major contributor. 11/1512007 Page 2 of2 Other key findings include: . A strong majority (58%) of Americans think the number of homeless people is increasing compared to ten years ago and only 6% of Americans believe the nation is doing a very good job in dealing this issue. . 71% agree that many homeless people could get back on their feet and become self sufficient with proper housing. . 44% of Americans indicate they have taken in a friend or relative who was facing homelessness had shelter not been provided. Through Gallup, Fannie Mae also polled people in the eight cities that partnered with the Fannie Mae Foundation to raise awareness and funds through the Foundation's 20th Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon on November 17. This year, the Fannie Mae Foundation's Help the Homeless Program has expanded to include Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. Each of these cities has engaged organizations and civic leaders to help address the unique issues surrounding homelessness in their local communities. Some key city specific findings include: . 71 % of Seattle respondents believe homelessness in the nation is increasing compared to ten years ago, the most in any of the seven cities. . 50% of the respondents in the cities believe the inability to find affordable housing is a major factor people might be homeless. . Over 75% of all the respondents in the cities agree that communities should construct more affordable housing to serve all its citizens. . 70% of the respondents in Denver and 68% in Boston believe their community is doing at least a good job in addressing homeless issue. "Homelessness is one of the major challenges facing our nation and we need to do all we can to support the solution of permanent housing," said Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino. "I was pleased to see that Bostonians are personally committed to this cause as 84% of those polled in the city said they would be willing to make a donation to an organization working with homeless people. It is with community involvement, increased federal support, and committed organizations like Fannie Mae that we can make a difference in addressing the issue ofhomelessness." The general population survey of 1002 adults was conducted from September 4 through October 17, 2007 with a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points. The city specific survey of 3216 adults (approximately 400 in each metropolitan statistical area for each of 8 cities) was conducted from September 4 through October 17, 2007 with a margin of error of plus or minus five percentage points. For more information, please visit www.fanniemae.com. The full study can be found here: http://www.fanniemae.com/medialpdf/GP Cities final. pdf 11/15/2007 ~". -0 :::: - ...:..c-..,.... 'D ..~ '., ., .~..... ~ ~, ..:.al., ear,-. .' '.....~........-.. '~ I would like to press my outrage about our ~ town's current ICY otl*llllfc.Na~:teMt~l cats who enter our animal shelters~This system '" is both inhumane and ineffective. The only way to reduce the number of cats in our community is to stop the breeding. Trap- Neuter-Return (TNR) , the practice of spaying or neutering the cats and returning them to their colonies, is the affordable and humane solution. As a taxpayer, I urge you to stop theltilling. For more information on TNR prease ViSirWww. alleycat.org or email alleycat@alleycat.org. Sincerely, tj( e J::/~ -_.~_-.~-_..._---~_._--~--,--- ~ o J.~ ~~ ~~~ ~~~ ......, = 2 = --J % <_0 0 11 ):> _0.1 <::: ,/ 0 -, ,....- :::=\ C) Ul \T' ____' r-- - '- r-rl -0 ,-\ - i.....,J 52:.~ _'>2'. _.-."A (.oJ <: .. )> U1 co Glllll November 12,2007 Dear Council Members, As a student at the University oflowa, I'm writing this letter because I'm concerned about the amount of smoke present in the restaurants in Iowa City. I think that smoking should be banned in these establishments because of the potential health hazards. Just five minutes exposure to secondhand smoke is equivalent to smoking one cigarette. The 2006 Surgeon General's report stated that secondhand smoke immediately affects the heart and blood circulation in a harmful way, as well as cause premature deaths in children and adults who do not smoke. I believe that it would be a very positive change if restaurants were smoke free here in Iowa City. The harmful effects have been proven, and if smokers had their cigarette before arriving, the health benefits would outweigh the hassle. Not only will this create a more pleasant atmosphere for the customers, but it will also help improve the health of the employees. It's a simple change that can affect many people in the long run. There would still be plenty of areas for people to smoke outside where it is easier to avoid the secondhand smoke for those who wish to keep away. Employees of restaurants have no choice but to constantly be around the dangers if they want to keep their jobs, but with smoke free restaurants established, their freedom and health can be restored. Thank you for your time 0'1 ('..I ...-.- ,...legai4ing~~1~portant issue. j{_ I.,.. i ~ ,::.\::: ~,=/ '. - '.LJ 0.. Sincerely, LL ~ 5wrom~ "-:=-:;:: r-- = i:::: ("'..... ',.J Hayley Brendengen /oo'~ Hall '7J:Sfo& JocUl ci'h6 ' r Ii 52240 November 13, 2007 To Whom This May Concern, I am writing this letter to address a concern I feel very strongly about. The Iowa City downtown establishments all permit smoking inside their bars. This act of permission on the city's behalf is a concern of mine because there are plenty of people who do not smoke, are allergic to it, yet still have to be surrounded by it if they want to go to the bars. The smoke in the bars not only permeates through clothing, hair, and skin but it also is absorbed by the food and drinks we consume. When we who do not smoke are ordering our meals or drinks we get nicotine, fumes, and toxins along with it. This is something that should be addressed. Not only are our outsides affected by the smoke hut more importantly our lungs are being exposed to these cancerous toxins. These statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services support my issue with second-hand smoke. Secondhand smoke causes lung cancer in adults who have never smoked themselves. Nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or at work increase their risk of developing lung cancer by 20- 30%. Secondhand smoke causes approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths among U.S. nonsmokers each year. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. Every year more U.S. women die from lung cancer than die from breast cancer. More than 160,000 lung cancer deaths are expected in 2006. Most cases of lung cancer are caused by active smoking, but exposure to secondhand smoke is an important cause among nonsmokers. There is no reason that people who smoke cannot step outside. All bars and restaurants should be smoke-free. As a democratic nation, the people should have a choice whether or not they want to be exposed to second-hand smoke. Lung cancer is a choice, not a destiny! Please hear my voice and consider making a change for the better. Thank you for your time, "-,,, ',..,.j i'J C':;, C;;I ""-.I N atasha Cardona <"0 ~:5 ~::~:: .-.2] University of Iowa student --. .;=. p~ "'.' \[) Dan Jilek D.......,c"a.(<;,.,....\.La... dd-~"'1 ~ I '""t- f' -r-\,. 53-..)..tf0 ~ "'.. \... '-:~~. ...l-~, Creating Social Capital Perspectives on Leisure and Play The issue that I think that needs to be put into effect is the band on smoking in all bars and restaurants. I can not stand when people smoke around me. It is one of my biggest pet peeves. I will be standing in an area having a good time then all of a sudden someone will light up a cigarette right next to me. In my opinion it the most distgusting habit anyone can take up. All you are doing is inhaling smoke and other poisonous gases into yoUr body. Also, when you are done smoking your cigarette your breath and body smells. I also think it is the biggest turn off when I see a girls smoking. But back to my argument of banding smoking in bars and restaurants. First not even just bars but I think every restaurant should band smoking. There is no difference when you go to a restaurant from the non smoking area to the smoking area. Where ever you sit and if there is smoke in the area somehow it will make it to wherever you are sitting. r I would like to enjoy my food then knowing I am eating a clump smoke. Also, I can not stand it when you go home from a smoky place and you smell like pure smoke. Then knowing you smell like smoke you are more likely to go take a shower. No one wants to do that after a long night, they would rather just go to bed. Finally, is the second hand smoke that non-smokers have to deal with. They say second hand smoke is as deadly as smoking the actual cigarette. Why should non-smokers get punished for other people's actions. Enforce the rule that if you want to smoke you have to do it outside. I live in Orland Park Illinois and they have banded all smoking in bars and restaurants. There is no better feeling when you walk out of public place smell!.J.l:g like l;12w I' = --.J = ~~ .....~--J you came in. It sucks when you leave and you smell like smoke. . ~.> -....,.... (~:s ~::: ~D ~(.) tlV'-1 1"--'1- '<"".I f\\,) '-0 Dear Iowa City Council Members, There has been a great deal of controversy lately over the issue of turning bars into establishments that only 21 year olds can visit. Throughout this whole debate there were many good points brought up for either side. I believe that we should keep them as is right now and I am very glad that the law did not pass. I am a 23 year old student here at the University so changing the age would not directly effect my ability to visit this restaurants and establishments but I am very involved with groups and organizations on campus that have younger members. I would not want to see these members have to trek all the way across campus to a house that they don't know and be somewhere that I would not be able to keep an eye on them and look out for them. That being said my issue is that I believe that we should look to helping the atmospheres at this establishments instead oftrying to run them out oftown. I believe that one way that we could improve the downtown scene is that we should ban smoking in all establishments in Iowa City. Instead of getting rid of the bars we need to improve on them and make them a more enjoyable atmosphere for the community. B~ng g .,__' --J smoking would make for a much more mature and respected atmosphere, wher.easJnan}S: ~.:r~ ~~ members of the community do not want to go to these establishments because ~ether :: =j C", \.0 they are a smoker or not they come out smelling of tobacco. Even going to have4~~~ drink with a friend or going out to dinner, if you have someone at the table nex~9l:( -~, "> smoking you will have that lingering smell on your own clothes. 5> ~ One city that has established this law is in the town of Madison, Wisconsin home of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. This is another large school as ourselves that have a conglomeration of bars and it has worked well. Visiting the school myself! enjoy being in the bars since you don't have half the bar lighting up a cigarette and blowing it into your face. More people that are smokers are apt to stay outside on patios or step outside the bar. At the end of the night no one that doesn't want to smells of tobacco and those with allergies can breath a little easier. I also believe that banning smoking in all of the local establishments with benefit the university on number of smokers that quit. I think that when the university started banning smoking within a certain area around ill buildings it really helped that it wasn't as convenient for a smoker. It should be the same way with the bar scene downtown. The 11 r-- i ill i~ '----..i amount of students that purely smoke "because they are drinking" is a high number and if they had to go outside in 20-degree weather to do it, I think that most would just opt out of doing it all together. Most would just not see it as worth it. Of course there is also the other group that would all stand outside twenty times in one night to have that cigarette, but this way they are not bothering anyone else's health but their own. I hope that this letter reaches you in a manner that's sole purpose is to help benefit the city. I have lived here for 5 years and have no real qualms about the city, but I believe that this issue would be a good advancement for the entire town. Thank you so much for your patience in reading my letter and hoping taking it into consideration. Best regards, Christy Kingsmill ~~ 630 S. Capital St. Apt. #214 Iowa City, IA 52240 r--) 0 = = ~ -.J r~, -- \..j 2.:3 c4:: 11 ,-, \.. . -_._~ c-.! \.0 t-- .....-.'.... i ill r-n :::::n --.-..- _t..... ""~ "~,,....... .,..-\-..' t,.....} ~i ~->~- - 5> .. N 0) To whom it may concern: I am writing this letter to inform you about my feeling towards smoking in campus. Smoking does not only affect the health of the smoker but also the people around him or her. Second-hand smoke is just as bad and serious as fIrst-hand smoke. My dad has smoked since he was 14 and it makes me terribly sad that he is so addicted to such a disgusting thing like the cigarette. He smokes about a pack a day. His profession is a truck driver and whenever he gets frustrated on the road his solution is to pull out a cigarette and smoke. I was told by my mother that during her pregnancy with me my dad would smoke inside the house. He also smoked inside the house until I was about 5 years old. My mom noticed that I would have breathing problems especially during the night. She brought this to my pediatrician's attention and he ran some tests on me. The doctor told my mom I had asthma. He asked if anyone smoked in the house and of course my mom said yes. The doctor said that in order for me not to have such severe asthma attacks there would have to be some changes. My dad was no longer allowed to smoke inside the house. I have only had one really bad asthma attack in my life and I was very scared but at the end I was okay. My asthma is not severe at all now because my dad does not smoke when I am near him. This experience has helped me see where I stand on the issue of making campus smoke-free. The smoke that flows in the air of campus bothers me and I believe that I am not the only one that is bothered by it. Every time smoke is blown I have to cough. Smoke smells really bad and therefore so does smokers. The smell of smoke is very overwhelming. I hope that you agree with me and see that the campus as a whole would be better of if it was smoke-free. And maYrl5e if people were told that they couldn't smoke on campus they could try and quit. So by ( ,j ::':~~ ... -.-- C:~\,m~1?-g thiA~pus smoke-free we would also be saving lives. LL, ",;: 'L_j (~..) sincereL/. ,~ ~-~P'j Michelle Lopez JOO 3Jo. tt+- tfti.Jl #/2Lfb J-DWC\ 01\jr~-A 52ZY2- ) \ I ~ pear Iowa City Council, A night at the bars includes hanging out with friends, a few drinks, and dancing all night. Even though the night may be a blast and end at two, your experience of the "bars" doesn't go away so easily. The Iowa City bars are a smoke hole that happens to have horrible effects from the moment you walk in until noon the next day when you get up to shower. Even if you don't drink at the bars you are going to have a terrible night sleep. Your clothes and hair are absorbed with smoke. Your skin is dry and your throat dry. Besides all of the effects on the outside second hand smoke is also extremely dangerous. The American Lung Association says, "Secondhand smoke causes approximately 3,400 lung cancer deaths and 46,000 heart disease deaths in adult nonsmokers in the Un.ited." I feel that the bars will be much more enjoyable if they were smoke-free. The health risks are far to great and the smell is extremely unpleasant. Some people are really bothered by the effects of the secondhand smoke. These people shouldn't have to avoid the bars just to make sure that the next two days after aren't filled with misery. Enforcing this law would not lower the profits of the bars at all. People are still going to the bars whether they are allowed to smoke inside or have to take a couple steps so they are outside. Making all of the bars in Iowa City smoke-free would also be a great step for helping people quit smoking. It will be a little inconvenient to walk outside to smoke, so much so that some people would rather stay inside and make it a smoke-free ni~. ~~r'o~ Thank you for your time, 3:; ::-~ ".-- -..,,/ i..) " Ashley Meade q~"d ~ ~t ~i -ttlf do-u.J) ~ f f1CA S'd-?'-tO t,..'--. -_-Ie ~ j ,-,-::!. f-:: ___ rn ~5;.' )> r\j co r-..;l = = ......., ..",.. 25 ~= ]J ~ t rn ,--i '---.I l..O ;y,;". --- _ti'.... - - Dear Mr. or Ms: My name is Kayla Ross and I am a freshman at the University of Iowa. I am writing you on behalf of the smoking issue in public buildings. I am not a smoker myself but I do have many friends that smoke. I have made the personal choice not to smoke, but I do not discriminate against other that have made the choice to smoke. Although, I do feel that since I have made the decision not to smoke that I should not be forced to be in an atmosphere where I am still breathing in smoke. I think that restaurants should have separate rooms altogether that are designated for smokingooonot just a half wall separating smoking from non-smoking. If this is not possible, I think that we should just ban smoking altogether in restaurants. I know that smoking and drinking go hand in hand and it would be impossible to stop people from smoking after ten at night in bars. It would be a lot easier to stop people from smoking in the bars before ten at night. This would be nice because bars are a great place to eat during the day and I would like to not smell like smoke every time I left one. I just feel that if we could try to eliminate some of the smoking in eating places then some people would be less likely to develop sicknesses and that many people would be pleased. I am not anti-smoking; I just think it should be limited. If this is at all possible that would be great. ,~i '"'~ 0 = = -.I ~: () :> c:? --~) G:.;: 11 () "- N .----- .-j 0 : ,--( nl ~, --.. ;'"'1 ,'--........ -",'""" \...J '-.--' :> )> !"0 en Thank you very much for reading this and your time. Kayla Ross c~ , to fi5;.~ ([ttrw /-I:J) ~ Ja,..o C;kJ. ~ cmkJ.-I I Iq" ,..,:,'..;,,-,...- ..",' ..-~',-->.!'."(,. ~-: Dear Council Members; r--") Q C'J c:::> -.I ~~ C~) <~ ..,,~.;_... '.--: C.:J ~ ---J -.c.r.:: !l (') N ,>- C-) C> i ...-"-( \-- -n n-- ~ 1-1 - ,--, --,) -',-.... '-----' '-' /~~ < )> !'>.} 0""1 I am writing this letter for one of my college courses. The assignment is to choose an issue that I feel strongly about and write to someone in a decision-making position. The issue that I feel strongly about is smoking in restaurants. I feel that it ruins the appearance of the restaurant and the atmosphere. It's hard to enjoy your meal sitting next to someone that is smoking. The food doesn't seem to taste right because you have that smell of smoke all around you and you can't enjoy the full flavor of your food. I think that restaurants in Iowa City would be much nicer if smoking was band from them. think that it should be allowed in bars because that is an entirely different atmosphere. But when I'm in a restaurant I would prefer if a person that smokes could just go outside to smoke rather than do it in front of everyone else. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and consider this issue. If you have time I would love to hear back from you about this issue. Sincerely, Samuel C. Smith r ' I c~, II .Y~~\A.e \ C"~lil\. l!-O <~~~\ lej tt'720 low,,- ('I'IJ rJA 522'-1'2 To whomever it May Concern, I am writing to voice my concerns regarding smoking in the bars of Iowa City. I think it should be made illegal to smoke inside bars. It is not fair to others who choose not to harm their bodies by smoking. They are forced to inhale secondhand smoke. One of the main reasons I am against smoking in general is because both my parents smoke and I have seen the effects. Both of them are not in very good shape and they cough all the time. They try to say they are sick but it is obvious it is caused by smoking. Smoking is a drug and it is harmful to your body. There are no positive effects of smoking. It is a personal choice to smoke and the people that choose not to smoke should be respected by those that do. Sincerely, Andy Stroud I 00 n~cyf(t) ~ft(,O-{ B ~Ll~ C~.:rA 52Z ~ Z t',;:-,.) l',_. ~-.~ r.....",) C:=:) C:;::.t "'"--1 ~..::: ""r".~. --.!:', Dear Iowa City City Council, My name is Sarah Swank and I am twenty years old. I am currently a junior at the University of Iowa. I am writing you this letter because I am concerned with second hand smoke in restaurants and bars. At the University of Iowa, located in Iowa City, most restaurants and bars allow smoking. I believe that second hand smoke can be as deadly as actually smoking cigarettes. I am concerned about my health and the health of others who are forced to be around smoke whenever they go to restaurants and bars. I do not think: that it is necessary to put people at risk who do not smoke. People who do smoke should be forced to go outside so they are not bothering the people around them who are constantly inhaling second hand smoke. It is unfair for the people who choose to be healthy and not smoke. I believe that it could prevent people from getting lung cancer due to second hand smoke if people who smoked were forced to step outside a restaurant or bar to have a cigarette. Overall, I believe that smoking should be banned in restaurants and bars for the health and safety of others. I feel strongly about this issue and if smoking was banned it would benefit many people and possibly save people from becoming sick due to second hand smoke. Thank you for your time and I hope you take this letter into consideration. Sincerely, ~rLUL Sarah Swank: ~~~ <:;;;, ..,-~ 5" 22- N C\:nt--on"'$+ <Tc.:v.JCA ~ -ij :r-A S -zz '1)" \.0 .~--- p..) t..,,:":) Members of the City Council, I would like to address the subject of smoking in restaurants and bars in Iowa City. Currently most restaurants and essentially all bars permit patrons to smoke freely in their establishments. It is my belief that smoking should absolutely be prohibited in these locations. It is well-known that second-hand smoke is just as unhealthy for a person as is actually smoking a cigarette. It is unfair to those who do not smoke and wish to not be subject to this dangerous side effect of smokers. Those who choose to smoke can easily go outside or to designated areas to fulfill their desire to do so. I believe the first step to completely banning smoking in downtown establishments is to start with the restaurants. This will most likely have fewer objections among the citizens of Iowa City. From there, extending the policy to the bars would be much more foreseeable. Many cities much larger than Iowa City, such as Boston, have completely banned smoking in their establishments. This is not an unimaginable option in our great city. I please ask that you consider the benefits for everyone of banning smoking in our restaurants and bars. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, -IJIMV tv~ Marc Wetrich, VI Senior \-f,A;/\ () i ill I r"', \ \i. ~! \'-c,...' ~ ,\! -' - 1.-ll' ~ 0 ~ t ........\.... V;I) t )'.LI:~) fi1&lrc:. VJ<:t"'I\~ 50S ~ Bv.rl1n.,tC'n.14 ~ ro t}J ~ (,1'+y:!:A 57..'),. '0 0" . t I' ".1 n C ..I". h~' u' ;,i")ll lD'"'7 !'I un U" OJ~lI::1 Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 To whom it may concern: I am writing as a concerned and aggravated student about the issue of banning cigarette and cigar smoking in all Iowa City bars and restaurants. I am currently a junior here at the University of Iowa, and I have put up with inhaling the toxic second-hand smoke for quite some time. I feel that it has come time to put my foot down and voice my opinions. My main issue with the permitting of smoking in the bars and restaurants of Iowa City is the second-hand smoke inhalation. Those who enjoy smoking currently have their way at these public places and they have the control over lighting up whenever they feel necessary, knowing what each cigarette is doing to their body. However, what about those ofus who are non- smokers and want to enjoy a night out without having smoke unwillingly shoved down our lungs? Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke absorb nicotine and other toxic chemicals just like smokers do, which can lead to more serious health effects, such as: cancer, heart disease, heart and blood circul~tion, breathing difficulties, lung infections, ear problems, etc. Therefore, shouldn't we give $e non-smokers the option instead of the smokers, and make it a taw that if you feel the urge to light up then step outside the building? The action that I wish to be taken regarding the smoking policy in Iowa City bars and restaurants isto.have it banned all together. Ifpeople have the desire to smoke that badly then they should have the common courteous to step outside so they don't hann the bodies of those around them. After visiting other Big Ten schools that ban smoking in their bars, such as University of Wisconsin and University of Illinois, I found that it was a more pleasurable experience to not have to unwillingly inhale cigarette smoke all night long and actually enjoy a good time with my friends. I believe that we should follow the foot steps of our fellow Big Ten schools, and create a healthier atmosphere in our downtown attractions. Thank you for your time and I hope to here back from you on the actions being done regarding this issue. Gretchen Woelfel 328 N. Clinton Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Q };;~. C),-:" -.....{ (~~> ~-<.:. [- n') 977, ~ '" = = -.." Z c.::l Tl ....;;::: 1..0 i ('r! --, \0 > ~" N co Grlil November 15, 2007 CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET IOWA CITY, IA 52240 To whom this may concern: In the past year there has been 26 cases of know assaults on women. With all the abuse and sexual assaults, on women in the past year I feel that something has to be done and something has to be done fast, before an assault turns into something worse, Lately I feel that the university and the Iowa City police, are more important about drunken students and people in the bar that are not 21 then with protecting the students from assaults and crimes. Just last week while I was walking to the bar I saw 5 cops in a bunch walking into the bars while a few bars down 4 more cops were walking into another bar. That is just ridiculous, why can't they just have 2 cops going in the bars, so the other cops can be on the streets patrolling and making sure no assaults are going down. I also noticed a few years ago, that after a few drunken car accidents with cars hitting pedestrians on Burlington during the late hours, many cameras were put up on the street corner. The cameras were on all the corner up and down the street. However, once you pass the Gilbert section there are no cameras nor are there rarely any bright streetlights. Which is where a lot of assaults have happened, Therefore, what I am proposing to the city is putting up cameras in the areas where most of the assaults are happening and putting up new bright street lights to light up the dark path to homes on the other side of Burlington. I appreciate your time and effort that you are currently doing to help serve and protect the community. I just hope that these assault and other crimes soon come to a halt. Thanks again for your time. S,in, cerelY1l-/' /'- , --I / A..--';V /1. /' ~rian Shapiro B ::'~I(C' ~ 6 g"d",)" )'.4- :10M1 (l~ )zzlf(J '" 0 = = ...-- --' .....-".. () ~ :~; ":::.-'-" c") < T1 C) '. __I C) \.0 J " I rn IT, )::w. ,..-.\ --'-"t - I"! ...-".,.' '-"' /', '....J ~ N CO Dear Iowa City Council Members, I am writing to you to with an idea that can make our streets safer for drivers and pedestrians alike. Being someone who walks the sidewalks and crossways downtown every day, I feel that it is unsafe to have people drive and talk on a cell phone at the same time. I have noticed various times of people almost getting hit by motor vehicles on crosswalks when the driver is using a cell phone. This is a dangerous act that has already been banned in other cities such as downtown Chicago. I feel it is something that can be controlled by law enforcement without too much burden. Drivers who violate this possible new law could be disciplined with fines or tickets in order to try and stop the habit. To further my point on how driving while using a cell phone is dangerous I have been in an accident where the other driver was using a cell phone and not paying attention to the road. All in all, I feel it would be a good law to incorporate into everyday life in order to protect drivers and pedestrians walking around Iowa City. From, Jon Leibovitz I C) b I~v N;JL- HeLl' RP1 1=t=, ~ L(; To\AA. CI~ I r.A 0.2-'-1 L i -\ ~! ,.........) c::::':) = '"""~ ? (;:5 'l:;;:~~ .11 ....~-- - '..0 !' ~---- ::t:::;;j --- _1i,. 0] <j - - " r\.) \[) G1Ji] November 15,2007 Iowa City City Council: This letter is in regards to the multiple road construction projects that have been going on for the past several months. I think it's very good that many ofthe problems with the roads around the city are being dealt with, but my concern is with the time spans that these projects are being done in. It seems as if many of the projects have been started at very busy times of the year, considering that Iowa City is a college town. The main project I've seen as a problem is the one dealing with the intersection of Gilbert St. and Bowery St. This project has been going on for the entire school year which has caused a major problem with traffic in that area of the town. A major problem caused by this project was the daily traffic back up on S. Johnson St. at its intersection with Burlington St. There were times early in the project that it wasn't uncommon for there to be 15 cars backed up on S. Johnson St. which seemed to be very dangerous considering the parking situation on that street. It also took a very long time to get the line of cars moving due to the fact that there is no traffic signal at that intersection. I know that the timing of these projects depends upon the availability of the contractors involved, but I believe that planning these things for the summer time when there are far fewer people in the city may fix some of these problems. It may also help to have more clearly marked detours with temporary traffic signals at busy intersections. I don't know ifthis is a possibility, but I wanted it to be brought to your attention for future notice to hopefully cut down on traffic congestion during the time when these road repairs are being done. I appreciate you hearing my concerns. o i~: "'-.1 c:::, C;;;) '-.f ~ Q c,;.::: Il ~--- ;-.--- Thank you, l~~ Kevin Young :r.:.., ::::?: - (r1 i-"-; "---j - ~.:.) it -..;:-- -1-;;:';' -- " '"' biD 5- J okV\!o~ S'+. Apt. I., low'^- Ciftl IA b ~~~o f\..) \0 ~ November 13, 2007 To Whom it may Concern, I am currently a freshman at the University of Iowa and have enjoyed it very much so far. However, one problem I see with the campus is the parking situation. There is little parking on campus, and even if one is lucky enough to find a spot they may go broke paying for parking meters. This is not a huge problem for me this year because I live in the dorms and take the Cambus, but it is a problem on the weekends with visitors. There are few places people can park for free when they visit for the weekend. When there is an area to park free of charge, it is difficult to get to and from the location. When my visitors park at Hancher, they cannot go get their car until the afternoon unless they walk. The Cambus does not come to Mayflower Hall until after twelve o'clock p.m. I have already had two of my friends get parking fines while visiting because of the lack of parking space. I am already worried and concerned about this issue for future years when I will be living off campus and not have the luxury of the Cambus. If I live far from campus, walking during warm weather would not be a problem but when it cold out it gets harder to walk long distances. If one chooses to drive to class in this sort of weather, it is very hard to find a parking spot close to the building their class is in. A person may either be late for class because of looking for a spot, or get a parking fine because of lack of parking. This issue would not be such a big deal if it did not cost money to park everywhere close to campus. If there was an area that was open for public parking weekdays between about six a.m. and ten p.m. and on weekends, it would be very convenient. Even if this was not close to someone's class they were trying to get to, it would be on campus where one would be able to use the Cambus. This is the biggest complaint I hear about the University of Iowa and have heard numbers of people warn others about parking and getting parking fines. I feel parking should be more lenient, or should not cost money everywhere on campus. ~ Carrie Haney J .. \()a \'(\~~lDWQ;Y l-\Ul\~g6\.og \()\)JO- C\\\v\ \ 1(\ @~~V2007 "-:;.... .~7} ...........", \() . "-"'.-.'''''' /7 ~.~ -. r.,,) \;'-..~ Abbie Volland in New Orleans Gll;] Marian Karr From: Rice, Dan S [LASAS] [drice@iastate.edu] Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2007 2:34 PM To: Council Cc: abbie14@gmail.com; Luttrell, Maggie R Subject: Abbie Volland in New Orleans Dear Iowa City Council Colleagues, I want to share my appreciation of your council for sending your student liaison, Abbie Volland, to the National League of Cities 2007 Congressional City Conference in New Orleans as a representative of Iowa City last week. Imagine my surprise when I found myself on the airport shuttle with Abbie next to me going to the conference. Abbie is an excellent representative of participatory governance in a university community. I only hope our council can have such resolution and foresight to send our student liaison, currently Maggie Luttrell, to national conferences in the future. I am on the Steering Committee for the National League of Cities University Communities Council (UCC) and I believe the Iowa Regent institution communities are setting an example for the entire country about the value students have to our communities. Abbie truly represented Iowa City with dignity and poise while in attendance. I was in several sessions with her and she offered many insights for the typically "older" city representatives (only 4% of voting delegates were under 35) that attend the league conferences and she was very well received. She represented a point of view that truly needs to be heard across the county. I mentioned to our mayor that an exchange of student liaisons, or guest visits, might be something our councils could consider in the future. Certainly, it would be up to the liaisons and their priorities, but it could be beneficial for us to get the perspective of students from other cities once in a while. You have a great student link with Abbie! Dan Rice Ward 1 Ames City Council 11/20/2007 ~ ~\-b NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the City Council of Iowa City, Iowa, at 7:00 p.m. on the 27th day of November, 2007, in Emma J. Harvat Hall in City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will consider: 1) A request to rezone approximately 0.48 acres of larid located at the northwest corner of Linn and Court Streets from Central Business Support (CB-5) zone to Central Business (CB-10) zone (REZ07- 00014). 2) An ordinance to amend a previously approved rezoning and sensitive areas development plan for an approximately 10.41 acre property located east of Highway 218 and south of Melrose Avenue (REZ07-00015). Copies of the proposed ordinances are on file for public examination in the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa. Persons wishing to make their views known for Council consideration are encouraged to appear at the above- mentioned time and place. MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK Shared/pcd/publichearing ;fI:S urm -~~==~~~~~ CHANGE~ EXISTING SIX STORY BUILDING LIMIT ORDINANCE Presented by Ronald Kinum Resident of Capitol House Apartment founding member Iowa City Citizens Committee Community Organization member Johnson County Green Party Post Office Box 1 0099 Iowa City, Iowa 52240 LibrisFidelis@usa.com t.'. I .ff~ ('st" bt 8Presented..Nov~mper 27,2007 t~, t"'t~f~(+ -to -t\e +~v-f1)II)~ted z.Of)/lIi ..... l I ,Ten.r-~~li~-wJcr:"., I would like to make three points: 0 II In c re as "'0 Q 18~ t IIM~.5 of!)e,w U5Y\s?vvc:fJ OlYl brlilJ/}Jgy, I. Ordinance Chanae Reauest - what it does A. Doubles the height of the permitted downtown buildings With the exception of the unsightly sterile-looking Sheraton Hotel and the "filing cabinet with windows look" of the architecturally atrocious Vetro Hotel, no other modern structure in downtown Iowa City exceeds six stories in height. The fact that the 8-story Jefferson Building is both historic and has community-compatible architecture makes it seem inconsequential. The present six-story height limitation zones represent a community preference that establishes downtown Iowa City as an intended small-town atmosphere zone, with neither the Chicago nor the "city of Oz" look that modern developers prefer to pursue. B. Increases the traffic density to downtown Regardless of the representations of the developer, every new tall building will increase motor vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic, each with its own consequences. Although it is preferable that increased mobility within our city be more pedestrian, there is no possibility to exclude commercial deliveries, guests, and incidental visitors from driving motor vehicles to, and parking at or near each multi-story building, which exponentially increases the surrounding city's traffic density in various ways. C. Decreases the available sunshine and surrounding view to neighboring buildings A prime concern of all residents is to not have the rural small town atmosphere be replaced by a growing "miniature Chicago". The view even from the middle-most floor of a building next to a high rise building is greatly affected in negative aspects which have symbiotic compounding effects on esthetics. D. Negatively changes the social atmosphere and quality of life to existing nearby residents There is a prime sanctity in the atmosphere of a small town city. Concrete canyons of multi-story caves isolates residents by divisive artificial barriers of imposing high rise residences. Urban sprawl is, of course, another opposite bad effect, yet the inability to see the weather, sample the view of the nearby surrounding community, all have a negative psychological perspective of the community that are critical human environmental concerns that have huge effects on personal and social well-being. E. Spurs city-wide rent increases The development of taller and higher-capacity buildings in a city does not create lower rents due to the fact that the construction costs of the new building must be captured in rent fees. This is an encouragement for other rental units throughout the city to raise their rents to be just as profitable. It is a myth in developing cities that more new rental units create a surplus of vacant apartments that influences lower rents. The new buildings would not have been constructed if the developers could not recover their construction costs through those higher rents. II. Developer Chanaes To OUR Citv - how it affects the developer A. Zone change is a purely egocentric in desire to enhance revenue The more a city is "built up" by large-scale development, the more that increasing development also encourages consecutive larger revenue-oriented development to follow, in a vile and vicious assault on the surrounding community. It is an inconsideration that systematically changes selected parts of a community to become a less humane and more revenue-enhancing commercial atmosphere of community-incompatible revenue districts. This development proposal to change our zoning laws is only one of many from over the years, each that have all been proposed with the developers looking toward the future for increased revenues and profits, as the developers anticipate that the existing local community residents and local small businesses will be literally "run off' by the power and by the intimidating influences of the mega-wealth of inspired encroachment of large-scale commercialization and grandiose development projects, with their power and influence of overwhelming resources. (continued on reverse side) B. Proposal inconsistent with surrounding buildings T he residents cannot tolerate changes of the atmosphere to a less and humanistic community realm which does not fit in with the existing community atmosphere and imposes undesired and unwanted changes in the community, changes that are not symbiotic with the community lifestyle. These proposed changes to our community is an assault by mega-developments that will inherently alter society, by bringing an influx of counter-community lifestyles that do not respect the existing community values, and often which flaunts with a disregard for community lifestyles to the point of actually antagonizing the existing community, which leads to community deterioration in both lifestyle and physical appearance. The breakdown of the community results in social isolation among citizens who become besieged by a new culture which does not respect the existing community. The role that mega-development buildings play in that conflict is not to be slighted. C. More tightly-fit tall structures on small property We citizens have a major problem with trying to create compact revenue-generating community with community structures which Iowa City has so far successfully been able to counter to a variety of degrees. Landscaping that is not superficial with adequate open space must also be formulated to address spatial effect:; of visual perspective, as well as physical habitation effects on mobility. There must be a universal city formula for geometric plane-space structural placement restrictions, that allow for reasonable and not excessive plane density of structure placement within any given block. III. The Solution - how it can serve both the citizens and the developer A. Maintain the existing ordinance to permit only a six story maximum structure There is no reason why developers cannot make a decent profit from revenues that are derived from a community-compatible scale of construction. This has been proven in southern Saint Louis around Grand Avenue and Arsenal Street, where a bank and an apartment were replaced with community compatible and actually very attractive structures, and on a large vacant lot, an apartment complex was created in the same way. Education is gravitating to distance learning using online courses, so costly student housing needs should decrease. B. Alter somewhat the top floors to appear more proportional to the shorter 6-story building In light of a proposed building of the architectl:lral style presented, the top floors of the new building were originally designed with a ten to twelve story structure, and that scale is out of proportion to the appearance of a shorter building that complies with the present six-story limit. Otherwise, the external appearance of the proposed building is quite acceptable in the Iowa City form of plan, whereas the building in Wisconsin is far less eye-appealing and looks arrogant. As a six story building, the proposal for the portrayed development of South Linn Street and West Court Street would be acceptable. rcrgfPt l ~ 1 -~= -10... (~I~:e~ ~~~_.l\t"i..... '"If'\ a.tL ' ~ CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826 (319) 356-5000 (319) 356-5009 FAX www.icgov.org November 15, 2007 The Honorable James Lee Amlong, Chair Johnson County Board of Adjustment 913 S. Dubuque Street Iowa City, IA 52240 RE: CZ07 -00003 Dear James Lee and Members of the Board, Johnson County has received an application from Alliant Energy for a conditional use permit for an electrical utility substation in the Rose Hollow Subdivision, a 3.18-acre property located in Fringe Area A at 4872 340th Street NE. At its November 15, 2007 meeting, the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission recommended, by a vote of 6-0, that the City Council forward a letter to the Board of Adjustment indicating that the conditional use permit be approved subject to general compliance with the submitted plans. The Commission felt that the request for a conditional use permit is consistent with the policies contained within the Fringe Area Agreement for Area A and the Johnson County Unified Ordinance. The proposed substation will be located outside of Iowa City's Growth Boundary, so development near the proposed substation is not expected in the foreseeable future. In addition, the substation will be screened to mitigate the visual impact to neighboring properties and will not be a safety hazard for existing residential structures. Based on the aforementioned reasoning, Council agrees with the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, and finds that the requested conditional use permit for the electrical utility substation in the Rose Hollow Subdivision is consistent with the Fringe Area Agreement for Area A and the Johnson County Unified Ordinance. Therefore, we ask that the requested conditional use permit be approved subject to general compliance with the submitted plans. au~ Ross Wilburn Mayor November 15, 2007 TtlQ Honorable James Lee Amlong, Chair Joh-\ on County Board of Adjustment 913 S. ubuque Street Iowa Cit IA 52240 d Members of the Board, dm ~=mW!:'t . ~~_...~ ~_ J CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washi nglon Street owa City. Iowa 52240-1826 (319) 356-5000 (319) 356-5009 FAX www_icgov.org Johnson County has eceived an application from A ant Energy for a conditional use permit for an electrical utility sub ation in the Rose Hollow ubdivision, a 3.18-acre property located in Fringe Area A at 4872 3 th Street NE. At its November 15, 200 meeting, the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission recommended, by a vote of 6-0, at the Cit Council forward a letter to the Board of Adjustment indicating that the conditional use ermit e approved subject to general compliance with the submitted plans. The Commission felt that the reques 0 a conditional use permit in consistent with the polities contained within the Fringe Area gree ent for Area A and the Johnson County Unified Ordinance. The proposed substaf n will be ocated outside of Iowa City's Growth Boundary, so development near the propose substation's not expected in the foreseeable future. In addition, the substation will be creened to mit ate the visual impact to neighboring properties and will not be a safety hazar for existing reside ial structures. Based on the aforementi ed reasoning, Counci agrees with the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Co mission, and finds that th requested conditional use permit for the electrical utility substati in the Rose Hollow Subdiv ion is consistent with the Fringe Area Agreement. Therefore e ask that the requested condit nal use permit be approved subject to general compliance w' h the submitted plans. Sincerely, Ross Wilburn Mayor City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: November 15, 2007 To: Planning & Zoning Commission From: Doug Ongie, Planning Intern RE: CZ07-0003 Alliant Energy Electric Utility Substation The applicant, Alliant Energy, is requesting a conditional use permit for 3.18 acres of land located at 4872 340th Street NE. The applicant wishes to construct an electrical utility substation in the Rose Hollow Subdivision, including a 195 foot self-supporting tower and a 12 foot by 15 foot communications building. The applicant's property is located northeast of Iowa City in Fringe Area A beyond the city's growth boundary. Iowa City is not expected to grow to include this property in the foreseeable future. The Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance permits cities to review conditional use permits for applications within their extra-territorial jurisdiction. A conditional use permit requires a 4/5-majority vote of the County Board of Adjustment to approve a permit opposed by the City Council. Zoning Requirements: The Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance allows publiC utility facilities and other related uses in any zone subject to such conditions as may be warranted by the Board of Adjustment to mitigate any deleterious effects and promote the public health, safety and general welfare. The Johnson County Development Ordinance does not give specific approval criteria for utility substations. The Iowa City Zoning Ordinance can provide some guidance. In Iowa City, Basic Utilities located in Industrial Zones that are not enclosed within a building must be located at least 200 feet from any residential zone and must provide S3 screening, the highest level of screening required by the code. With regard to the subject property, the nearest residential property is located approximately 200 feet east of the proposed substation. Landscaping east of the substation will consist of an approximately 100 feet wide buffer yard planted with a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees. The buffer and landscaping will mitigate the visual impact of the utility substation and the 8 foot high security fence from the adjacent property to the east. The north, south, and west sides of the substation, which are not readily visible from neighboring properties, will have deciduous and evergreen trees to screen the substation. Mitigating the visual impact of the proposed communications tower will be more difficult due to its height. The Iowa City Zoning Ordinance suggests that towers be constructed in a manner that will camouflage the structure and reduce its visual impact on the surrounding area. The Ordinance also requires towers to be setback at least a distance equal to the height of the tower from any residential zone. The nearest residence is approximately 200 feet from the utility substation property and at least 700 feet from the communications tower, which will be located in the Northwest corner of the property. Due to this distance, it doesn't November 9, 2007 Page 2 appear that the communications tower will pose a safety hazard for existing residential structures. Compatibility with City Plans: This property is located in an agricultural area. Although it is close to the city, the topography, street network and the location of Interstate 80 to the south, isolate it from areas of growth. In the long-term the connection of Oakdale Boulevard from its current terminus near Dubuque Street in Coralville east to Dodge Street (Highway 1) and eventually Scott Boulevard, will open up the area located approximately 'V2 mile to the west of the proposed substation for commercial office type development. Because the property near the proposed utility substation is located in a water shed that drains away from the city's sanitary sewer treatment facilities, it will not likely develop without major investment in sanitary sewer infrastructure. The proposed landscape screening will have matured by the time development if any begins to occur in this area. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that Council forward a letter to the Johnson County Board of Adjustment recommending that the application submitted by Alliant Energy for a conditional use permit for an electric utility substation be approved subject to general compliance with the submitted plans. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Location Map/Aerial Photograph 2. Rose Hollow Conditional Use Permit Application 3. Site Plan Approved by: ~ ~ Robert Miklo, Senior Planner Department of Planning and Community Development CITY OF IOWA CITY IOWA CITY CORPORATE LIMITS ID-ORP -- ... .....-----........._..........~_.. r~""l ..-.-" I :> 1 I"" II \. " i II i II i II , I II !II "'" '.rf,1~'7ZZ..t~Z,\-;.-7L~Y~ 'l i J~~ I , ! I P mmm\mm ... m m mm .._--" , i I I I UJ .... ~ ::J ........._.....m..~_."""}"..._._ 1=1 <( ( '" 0 Cl. \ '" (I 0 u ID-RS ) >- .._m\,m .... .-.........----.........- u \ <( I 3< ~ Q - SITE LOCATION: Alliance Energy Substation ~ CZ07 -0003 - ROSE HOLLOW SUBDIVISION - New Electrical Substation Conditional Use Permit Application Item #3: Document explaining the proposed use including but not limited to the number of employees, parking facilities, days and hours of operation, provisions for water and wastewater, type of equipment to be used and signage: PROPOSED USE: Electric Utility Substation. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The subject property is located at 4872 340th Street, NE-Iowa City, Iowa 52240-8046 and is zoned Agricultural. The basis of this application for a Conditional Use Permit is to allow construction of a new, state of the art electrical utility substation as allowed under the power of the Board of Adjustments, Amended Chapter 8: 1.20(11)(8) of the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance For the Unincorporated Areas of Johnson County adopted December 30th, 2004 and by the addition of new sub-section 8:1.20(11)8(1) by Ordinance 12-22-05-Z1 (An Ordinance amending the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance) to allow as Conditional Uses Public Utility Facilities and Other, Related Uses). Alliant Energy has taken positive steps over the years to maximize the circuits and equipment in the Rose Hollow Subdivision area just outside of Iowa City, Iowa. Continued growth has already made it difficult to meet electrical demand on extremely hot summer days. A new electrical source is needed for this community to provide reliable power, especially under extreme conditions such as equipment failure due to storms causing damage to our system. A substation is an assembly of transformers within an enclosed area that switches, changes and regulates voltage in electric transmission and distribution lines. Substations play an important role in the electricity delivery process by boosting the voltage of electricity so that it can be efficiently transported over long distances. It is also the source for reducing voltage so that it can be delivered in a practical and economical manner for use in homes and businesses. The existing Rose Hollow Subdivision site is an ideal location because of the extremely close proximity ofthe intersection of the existing 161 kV (kilovolt) and 69 kV transmission lines and the current distribution system in this area. This substation will expand the electric infrastructure that serves the immediate area, enhancing reliability and while positioning the community for future economic development and growth. This substation is situated in a rural, agricultural area and has been designed to allow for both transmission and distribution lines to enter and exit the facility. The plan also includes extensive landscaping, adherence to the new Sensitive Areas Ordinance and adjacent land owners will be able to continue cultivation of their land. - 1 - NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: This will be an "unmanned" facility. Utility personnel will access the substation two to three times per month for routine inspection and on an as needed basis for system maintenance. CONSTRUCTION AND PARKING: Adequate measures have been incorporated in the design of this substation to minimize traffic congestion and to assure adequate access by authorized personnel. This substation facility has been designed to accommodate appropriate access and parking for emergency response personnel. Construction should not impede roadways or result in traffic delays DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION: The substation facility will be in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. PROVISIONS FOR WATER: The substation adds no demand to public services such as water and sewer. PROVISIONS FOR WASTEWATER: The included Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will be implemented to mitigate increased run off and water quality concerns in accordance with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), Iowa City and Johnson County requirements. TYPE OF EQUIPMENT TO BE USED: A substation is an assembly of transformers within an enclosed area that switches, changes or regulates voltage in electric transmission and distribution lines. A communications tower will be installed for internal network use to retrieve usage data, line fault information and provide emergency communication between Alliant Energy's Central Dispatch Center and authorized field crews during times of 911 disaster. The towers that are located within Alliant Energy substations are all FCC and FAA licensed. Initial construction will require large construction equipment and a crane. Service trucks will frequent the site on a monthly basis. SIGNAGE. SAFETY AND BARRIERS: The substation will have dusk-to-dawn lighting, similar to "street lights" to aid in security. The footprint of the substation will have an 8' tall chain link security fence around the perimeter and has an additional 1 ' of barbed wire located at the top of the fence to deter unauthorized entry into the substation. The perimeter fence and gate will have Alliant Energy identified "WARNING" signage attached and will also include emergency contact information and such information as the name of the Substation; identified as "Rose Hollow". The signage allows for visual confirmation of danger prominence, see following signage examples. The substation is kept secure with keyed padlocks and admittance to the facility is restricted to only authorized Alliant Energy trained personnel. Alliant Energy strives to be a good neighbor. Alliant Energy will take into consideration any suggestions or conditions expressed by the City of Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission, City Councilor Johnson County Board of Adjustments. In the planning and design of Alliant Energy's substation facilities, safety is key. Alliant Energy's Planning and Engineering staff strive to not only meet but exceed all construction and facility requirements.t- 2- TIMELINE: It is the goal of Alliant Energy to start construction in the Spring of 2008 with the Rose Hollow Substation facility fully operational by Fall 2008. - 3 - = ~~ "'...J c- '06 ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~t5 ~ L... ' , ~ [""'" <( ...J::: :,.j -- 0 ~~al = () ~.- h~ / .2g! ~~~~ , .....J= 'O-:'.J: c.~ =~~ r/H ~ LANDSCAPE NOTES I. COfIlTRACTQR SHAll. VERIfY THE LOCATlOO AHO PROTECT AlL UTlJ1IES AND STRUCTURES PRIOR TO PlANT INSTAlLATlON. DAMAGE TO UnUTlES AN{) 5TRUCruRES SHAlL BE IUhlEDlATRY REPAIRED BY lliE CONTRACTOR TO THE SATISFACTION Of THE Q'MiER. 2. flELO AOJJSTUENTS Of PRa>OSEO PlANT lOCATlOOS WAY BE REOOIREO TO ~INlMlZE: POTEHTlAl INTERFERENC[ YtlTH EXISTING UTIUTlES. TO t.lINIUlzt HAZARDS TO PlANT GROWTH AND TO IMPROVE MAINTENANCE CONDITIONS. PLANT LOCATIONS SHAll BE APPRQ'oC> BY THE ~ER'S REPRESENTATIVE PRIOR TO PlANT I,lATERlAL INSTALlATlOO. J. ALl PLANT t.lATERlAl SHAlL AT LEAST MEET t.lINlI.lUlA REOOIROlEHTS SHO.,.,.. IN THE "AMERICAN STAHOAAO FOR NI)R$(RY STOCK" (.tJ4Z1 260.1 - LATEST [[)T1OH). 4. NO PlAtH MATERIAL SHAll OC SUBSnTIJTEO WITl-lOUT THE AUDlCRlZATl(t( or lANDSCAPE AROtlTECT. 5. Pl...AHT QUANTITIES ARE FOR CONTRACTOR'S CON\o[NrENCE. ORA'MHCS SHAll PREVAIL HRE CONFUC OCCURS. 6. FOR INFOfll,IATlON REGAROING SELECTION. APPROV,6J,. AND eRADE Of PlANT t.lATERlAlS. PLANTING, PRUNlNC, SOC MIXTURES, SEEDING "'jOR SOOOlNC, SEE SPEClFlCATlOHS. 7. WLCli All TREES AND SHRUBS LOCATED OUTSIDE Of DESIGNATED t.IlILOl BEOS WITH A MINIMUM 3" DEPTH C1ROJlAR (3-fOOT OIN.1(lER fOR SHRUBS AHO 6-FOOT OIAt.1ElER fOR TREES) Of SHRroOEO BARK 0i1PS. t.rlJlCH PlANllNGS WELL 8. US[ R(Sl()(NllAl.. LAWN MIX fl'PE A AND t.lULCHEO WITH WOOO f1BER CEllULOSE PER THE SPEClFlCA TlQiS. 9. CONTRACTOR SHAU WATER ANO MAINTAIN AI.i PlANTS UNTl. GROONO FREEZES. INO..UOING VlEEDING, MUlCI-IING, WO'MNG SOOOEO LAYltlS, Nt) OTHER NECESSARY RELATED OPERAnONS UNllL INITIAl ACCEPTAHCE. 10. SEED ALL AREAS OlSTUR8ED BY COOSmucllQN. PlAN SHOWS APPROXIMATE SEEDING UMITS. 11. lANOSCAPE CONTRACTOR SHAll GUARANTEE AlL PlANT WATERlAl..S fOR A f'(RlOO ~ ON( YEAR FROM OATE ~ INITIAl.. ACCEPTANCE. I o IS JO 60 l"I SCALEIIlFtET ' <( Z~ 00 I-~ -< ;::~ ~~ WZ ffiuj CD::> ffiO ffi8 ~~ a:Z ~~ Wo ~ >00 Oz OJ: :Co ..., SCHEDULE -.., - 9lr HOOf ....... 2"""- 8B ..""" r",,- 8B ..""" r",,- 8B ..""" 10'I{f. 8B """'" 10" lIT. 8B ..,.,." 2~"HT. a>ff """'" 10' Iff. a>ff """'" PLANT KEY orr 8OTN<<Al I: Cl1IiIItW lIME 0ECit!W(fS CWOPY "'" AC 8 N:tR SWMMAV .......... FP ~ IlWNIS 1'9lIIi5'I'I:1MC4' LMatlATA """'ASH PT 10 I'Q'UtI!i Tl1DUOIOES """"".... MTiGRfEN II1fE PA U 1ltl"AA/Jf3' ''''''''''"'' PG lJ ~ QA(.a DEJISAtA """'"""""" HF 55 !1W4ocaJEJ11)/1/JSCf. """'- JS 15 ..u<<RfJ5~ """'.-- .,,"'" .....- AFoI3ONS AFV NO -.cMD DAlE .-v NO. -.cMD DAlE AFV NO. -... DAlE ORA,", OJC """"""" rlfP F'M ~JU7 f'IF'lD BOON: SHEET ..... SITE lANDSCAPE PlAN c.J4 -..J .." ~re '" ....... " ""'"' II'ROoECT NO, 202122-0 oecDJOUS IHJ aeAGAEEN HUl8: IWJ.B) AHJ BlJlINIPED oWl CClrfTAfEA CR:l'MC SHEET NO. SHRUB INSTALLATION DETAIL - L1 IlOTIlISCN,L _ j ""- 8B ..""" 1~. Iff. a>ff ..""" 1~' HT. a>ff ...""" 1~' HT. a>ff ..""" fOR DECIDUOUS TREE: PRUNE BACK 1/4- ON SITE. If fOlLAGE IS PRESENT, SPRAY 'MlH ANllOESlCCANT PER NANUf'ACTURER'S INSTRUCllONS FOR DECIDUOUS TREE: 2 1/2"OtA. 10" LONG CEDAR STAKE WITH NOTCHED END (7' EXPOSEO) 2 PER TREE. TIE \fI1TH DOUeu: STRANO Of TWISfEO 10 CA CAlVo WIRE. PROTECT TRUNK WITH RUBBER TUBING (GARDEN HOSE) :UNKS ASPHAlTIC OF" B..o.u... (T'YP) 2 VNOERSroIlY II1fE AG 11 tfCERCMiA -- PR 51 P'1if.M5~ MEJICNi""" RG ~2 RMJSQA6IIiW SM<""" SUMC SV S1lI'JlCllUG4i'.6CY we fOR [VERGREEN TREE: GROUND UN[ TO BE THE SAr.l€ AS AT NURSERY. SPRAY WITH ANTlOESlCCANT PER WAHUf ACTURER'S tNSTRUCna.s I . -. f! n j! ~I iI 3 ." !I ,. n I. ~".,,~ Wtntcs au;JiifflJ IOWA CITY/CORALVILLE CVB ANNUAL REPORT ~ - , -, AN EDITION OFTHE IOWA CITY/CORALVILLE CVB iUll? VOL, 01 NO, 05 THURSDAY Nav, 15,2007 www,iowacitycoralville,org www,iowa-sports,org 1-800-283-6592 LLnMBm . Stories State Of , ourl8m A~._.u-UuR~.~""". Iowa River Landing and 'Stories' are next chap- ter in area tourism There are still many stories yet to unfold as development of the Iowa River Landing (IRL) district continues. The story of "Stories" ~a major attractor devoted to language, literature, and literacy~is well underway following another year of hard work from lCCCVB President Josh Schamberger and other community leaders. "This community deserves an attractor that will truly put us on the map and draw visitors from around our region, the nation, and eventually the world. We believe Stories has the potential to be that kind of attractor," Schamberger said. Iowa City/Coralville welcomed back its signature attraction last yeaL the Old Capitol Museum. .. 2.4 / 2,3 1/ 2,2 2,1 1/ 2,0 t/ 1.9 r 1.8 >--- - 1.7 >--- I - . r1.6 ,/ ~::y T - 1.3 - 1.2+- T r - 1.1 1.0 I I I 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004200520061 ~ C~Y.LCo!:2!v.!!.le..!i2tel/~te~e~ipts The news is good all around, Look at the indicators on state- wide basis, across the Corridor region, and in the Iowa City/Coralville com- munity. The tourism indus- try is posting some impres~ sive numbers. How impressive? The num- bers for Iowa City/Coralville tell the tale, Visitors to the community spent better than $264 million last year~an increase of more than $20 million-and paid more than $16 million in local and state taxes. Those visitors were served by the more than 3,220 individuals who work in the tourism indus- try in Johnson County, All three numbers are up from last year, "Once again, these numbers clearly indicate the signifi- cant economic impact of the "Fifteen in 5" project launched by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce in 2005, CVB all aboard in Corridor passenger rail review On August 25, 2007 people took a ride into the past-and into a possible future, For the first time since 1953, passengers rode a train along the CRANDlC line between Cedar RapIds and Iowa CIty, The familiarization tour was another step forward in the Corridor-wide con- sideration of restoring passenger rail service between the region's communi- ties, The lCCCVB got involved when President Josh Schamberger was asked to co-chair the light rail committee of According to a 12-month study com- pleted by Washington, D,C.-based R.L. Banks & Associates, adding a lane to north and southbound 1-380 between ..,,~~ .-e t- ~': :=U_.-~ ~. TODAY'S TIMES NEWS 1.800.283-6592 21111J11~~~1134 38 2 tourism in our communities," said lCCCVB PresidentJosh Schamberger, "And again, the growth of tourism both reflects and supports the con- tinued growth of the CVB," Growth in hotel occupan- cy numbers at area hotels and motels accounts for the growth in hotel/motel tax revenue. That revenue pro- vides significant tax relief to area residents. Meanw bile, visitors infuse the commu- nity with money spent for lodging, dining, shopping, and visiting area attractions. "As a destination market- ing organization," said Schamberger, "the CVB is committed to spreading the word that our communities are wonderlul places to visit. We continue to strengthen our presence in the commu- ~ TOURISM, PAGE 2A Cedar Rapids and Iowa City would cost well over $400 million, In contrast, it would cost approximately $70 million to get the CRANDlC up and running again, including upgrading the track, building depots, improving signal sta- tions, and procuring equipment. John Yapp, executive director of the Johnson County Council of Governments which helped coordinate the study, believes light rail can fulfill a number of needs. ""Whether it be economic development, reducing congestion, forestalling the need for 1-380 investment or creat- ing another mode of transportation for senior citizens and business travelers alike, passenger rail is a key ingredi- ent," Yapp Slid, The excursion tour revealed a spirit of optimism about the project. "As 1 walked up and down the aisle of Becoming a CVB member, how &why Join a great organization, FordetailscaIlShane@337-G592 I ;:) Mostlysunn y, cold TOD AY 36 32 . SAT 72 68 ''It was immediately apparent that this was a project we should play an active role in," Schamberger said. "Issues of transportation between the Corridor communities are an essential part of any conversation about continued com- munity betterment and economic devel- opment in our increasingly interdepen- dent region." The reasons are clear. Every day of every work week more than 11,000 residents travel along 1-380 to get from home to work and back. That number is sure to grow, and grow substantially, in the coming years. 1111111111 MEMBERSHIP As currently conceived, Stories will feature two inter- connected buildings located on 25 acres on the bank of the Iowa River just off Interstate 80, One, an eye- catching, multi-story literary theme park, will serve as the central attraction for tourists and area residents alike, It will be connected physically and aestheti- cally to a second building devoted to education and research. Drawing on the rich educational and literary heritage of the Iowa City and Coralville communities, every activity at Stories will be focused on the incuba- tion of a lifelong love of literature and learning. 'SlDries' is part of larger vision for the ilL Coralville City Council member Jean Schnake is excited about the work that has already been accom- plished in the lRL~and is equally excited about the future. "Close to a decade in the making, the Iowa River Landing district will serve as a magnet to draw a variety of visitors to the area for a 'worth coming back for' shopping/dining/entertainment destination experience," Schnake said. "The Coralville Marriott and Conference Center has already helped generate in excess of $4 million dollars in direct spending in the area, The build-out of the lRL will build on and com- plement that success, serving as a dynamic economic ~ IRl, PAGE 6A ~ RAil, PAGE 4A lAST YEAR, VISITORS TO JOII\ISlI\I COUNTY: . Spent more than $264 mill ion . Spent more than $16 million in local/state taxes . Tourism employs more than 3,220 residents making it the third largest area employer Source Iowa Dept of Economic Development! Travel Industry Assn. ot Amenca 2A CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 Tourism/efforts extend throughout corridor ~ FROM PAGE lA nity, we have a top-notch staff, and we're endlessly enthusiastic about the message we have to share, It all adds up to another year of successes." Two of the ICCCVB's key partners in the region also report success over the past year. "All the indicators for Cedar Rapids look good," said Cedar Rapids Area CVB Executive Director Tim Boyle. "Developers have broken ground on two new hotel prop- erties on the northeast side which will total almost 200 new rooms. Room rates and occupancy percentages continue to go up for the fifth consecutive year." The Amana Colonies also enjoyed a good year, according to CVB Executive Director Kristie Wetjen, "After a detailed re-branding process, 2007 saw the launch of a great new advertising campaign for the Amana Colonies. We are very happy with the reception of the campaign and the traffic numbers seen in the Colonies. VVhile the state of Iowa Welcome Centers are reporting continued declines in visitation, upwards of seven per- cent, the Amana Colonies Visitors Center continues to grow in visitation, with a 13 percent increase over 2006 numbers. These numbers, coupled with the fact that for the first time in Amana Colonies CVB history, we ran out of visitors guides after printing 125,000 copies, we are confident that tour- ism is healthy in the Colonies," Meanwhile, a recent report from the Iowa Tourism Conference revealed that tour- ism-generated expenditures grew by 8.4 percent, which is better than the national average of 7.3 percent. "We don't do our work in a vacuum," said Schamberger, "so we're very pleased that our friends and partners in Cedar Rapids, the Amana Colonies, and across the state are also seeing success." C CORRIDOR oncterae" .:.!IOWA Corridor Collaborations continue to produce resuRs The lCCCVB has been involved in a num- ber of successful collaborations over the last year, For example, in partnership with the Cedar Rapids Area and Amana Colonies CVBs, the Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance (ICCA), and the Eastern Iowa Airport, the CVB was instrumental in the launching of the "Corridor Concierge" welcome area at the airport, Featuring a Blue Strawberry coffee shop, merchandise from local artists and organi- zations, an array of informational materials about area attractions, and an extreme- ly knowledgeable staff headed by ICCA Executive Director Joe Jennison, the Corridor Concierge is welcoming a host of travel- ers every day, ~ ~ - ('9o",,;-Yf'" ....- t - , ,-.~ \ ~ "The Corridor Concierge gives us incred- ible visibility ~ with the busi- ness and leisure traveler," said Joe Jennison, Iowa Schamberger, Cultural Corridor Alliance "It welcomes people to the community and gives them the tools to ensure that they have a good experience while they're here," Schamberger and CVB have also played a central role in the investigation of the possi ~ bility of resurrecting passenger rail service CGd;,~ ~~~:, ,- 6 ~ (~ ,,' I l'.,.d. I';~' "'y- 7\-.' ,': .....:.~, *t!ter~ I ~. I I' I .:h,,*,~ L , "" It. ~ ' - _...L_ _\Indo,..-.. _ ~__..!l. . ~ ~r~ \i~{StfJ~;r."~~~~\'~ ~J' ~~\' ~t,~~~ J' I ~ : :~~'t~l~r~\..., I ":"-t~J "l,~ I 1 ~ ~ --t: ,'. ',. ... I '~ , . :: ~~ ~~.~ :.0.,. "'r 1:' u_.. I' ~ _~~tr:.R.ciPidr~~l~ ~ :k",..)~~ :1~ .__'"' ~'''''I'''-'._ _ r .,.1 ~ "00 .., .... ,4' .. _ ... -~... . _ II ~l'" ~ l'''-t II t,r . ..., I -~~-~ -----r, ~~~-~.~;: " '\)t; J I , '\ 'J: r~ 1k"'" . NorJh I !' ,....' E.- ~' '" '''\ ~'J II ,.......0 , : I~. ~.c I ...:.l-..'~!I]' . ~,~~L..'~~!''({ya > ,. I, !I I I'~ I '.r ,~. r B~20 'n , I I '. 'I .....--, '.,A.-' ". '- II \ ,. 0 = '- . y- ---, '. }; . -, .... .- .r,,'" . 270 Johnson County Tourism Expendiblres .. 1 1 'I Aiming for a Cure American Cancer Society Boy Scouts of America cFree Wireless Children's Miracle Network Clear Creek Amana Elementary School Community Leadership Program Coralville4th Fest Corridor Business Journal - Forty Under 40 Corridor Federal Issues Washington DC Trip Cub Scouts Destination Marketing Association International Downtown Association of IC Eastern Iowa Tourism Association Englert Theatre Fifteen in 5 - Light Rail Girl Scouts of Eastern Illinois & Western IA Goodwill Industries Health Center USA Heart of the Saints Hoover Elementary School PTA Iowa Children's Museum Iowa City Area Association of Realtors Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce Iowa City Area Development Group Iowa City Boys Baseball Iowa City Community School District Iowa City Dog Obedience Club Iowa City High School Public Relations Committee Iowa City Public Library Iowa City West High School Band Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service I I I' " , Iowa Cultural Corridor Alliance Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Iowa Division of Tourism Iowa DOT Passenger Rail Sub-committee Iowa Group Travel Association Iowa Meetmgs ASSOCiation Iowa River Landmg DIStllCt Iowa Society of Association Executives Johnson County Historical Society Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa KCCK 88,3 - Community Advisory Council Kirkwood Community College Lone Tree Schools Old Capitol Museum Optimist International Public Relations Student Society of America RAGBRAI Riverside Theatre Ronald McDonald House Rotary International Special Olympics Summer of the Arts TEAM Iowa Technology Corridor Business Alliance The James Gang Therapy Dogs International Training with Nate Kaeding & Robert Gallery Camp United Way of Johnson County University 01 Iowa Patient & Family Advisory Council Volunteer Admmlstrator's Network Women's Leadership Conference Youth Leadership Program in the Corridor (see re/med story, 'eVE all aboard'), a collaborative effort involving several organizations and tied to the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce's "Fifteen in 5" project. The ICCCVB contmues to partner WIth the visitors bureaus in Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Cedar Rapids, and the Amana Colonies to promote "The Heart of the Saints," Together, the organiza- tions have pro- duced a visitors guide and a web site (heartofthe- saints,org) dedi- cated to drawing visitors off the Avenue of the Saints and into our communities. "The Corridor Concierge gives us incredible visibility with the business & leisure traveler" - Josh Schamberger, CVB President "Our commit- ment to region- alism remains strong," Schamberger said, "and the Heart of the Saints initiatives are good for all of the communities involved. Together, we offer a range of attractions and options that allow us to appeal to just about any visitor." Meanwhile, the CVB supported efforts to pass a hoteUmotel tax in Norlll Lllerty. "We see the power of the hotel/motel tax throughout Iowa City and Coralville, as do communities around the state. Now that hotel properties are opening in North Liberty, that community has the same opportunity," said Schamberger, The ICCCVB also maintains a leader- ship role in the continued development of the Iowa River Landing (IRL) district in Coralville (see related story, 'Iowa River Landing....), Schamberger is leading efforts to develop "Stories," a major attractor grounded in the literacy and literature tra- ditions that are central to the community's Johnson County - Tourism Employment - ~ 3 - 216 3 on on C - "g3 ~ 162 .. !!l3 :i: ,g2 108 .... 2 54 2 2006 2 1999 200C 2001 2002 2003 2004 200 2 3.20 .15 .10 .05 .00 .95 .90 .85 .80 J..5 DEmployment ~ ~ ~ - 1999 200 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 16.0 15.5 15.0 14.5 ~ 14.0 ,g 13.5 ~13.0 12.5 12.0 11.5 11 .0 identity. The attractor is just one component of the iIlllovative district. That innovation will be central to the district's success. "The IRL is one of the key components as we look forward to the future of the tourism infrastructure in Coralville and Iowa City," said Schamberger, "Light rail is another key, as is the work of the CVB's Sports Authority (see related story, 'Sports Authority acquires'), We're proud to be playing an important role in all of these efforts, We expect all of them to payoff, and we expect to see another set of great tourism numbers around this time next year." ~ The Coralville Marriott was the first stage of the redevelopment of the Iowa River Landing Johnson County - Visitor Tax Relief o State/Local Tax Receipts - DODD ,""","M 200E 2006 CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 3A Conference! Sports sales efforts stay ahead of curve ICCCVB impresses with new sales imtiatives and exemplary service Lynn Harkin of the Professional Develop- ers of Iowa knows who to turn to when planning a convention~and she knows w here she can find some particularly strong partners, "If you're going to come to a community, you have to use the Convention and Visi- tors Bureau because they are the experts about their community," Harkin said, "And that's particularly true of the Iowa City/ Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau because the people there simply excel at whatthey do," The past year has been a busy one for the sales and servicing department of the lCCCVB, It's also been a successful year, "We've had a strong year in sales, particu- larly with state conventions," said CVB Vice President Jillian Beukema, "and our servicing department had its most active year to date due to the larger conferences held in the community," Beukema and her team are constantly look- ing for iIlllovative ways to increase their effectiveness. This year, two new initiatives are in the works. First an opportunity to meet with meeting planners from primarily the Des Moines Metro Area. "The Convention Sales Department is plan- ning a meeting planner luncheon in Des Moines this winter," Beukema said, "this will be a wonderful opportunity to talk about all the amenities that make the Iowa City and Coralville community a great place to have large meetings and conventions." The other iniUative involved a new prospecting tool. "Gale's Encyclopedia of Associations Online edition" is a great resource for us as we continue to seek out new business," Beukema said. This online prospecting tool lists thousands upon thousands of national associations located in the United States, Any type of interest group can be found in this encyclopedia from automobile clubs to professional organizations like the American Chemical Society. Seeking out new business is, of course, a primary goal of the sales department. Ac- cording to Beukema, the CVB would like FY 07 Confe~ence Sa Sports Sales I 'j~t~~~~~~~::::::::::::::::::::::::::~::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: l' 6:4ci~ J I Direct Spending .....~.........................................................$1 ,893,654 I FY 07 Conference Sa Sports Servicing ,., , , ~~::1:~~;:;?"",,7~?"?~~~':~;:n!r i to pursue more regional and city-wide busi- ness while maintaining strong relationships with state contacts, To do the latter, CVB staff remains active in the Iowa Society of AssoClatlOn Executives (ISAE), attending the organization's quarterly meetings as well as the lSAE tradeshow and golf outing, Meanwhile, in an effort to encourage mem- bers of the local community to hold their organization or association meetings in Iowa City and Coralville, the CVB is pre- paring to roll out a "Be a Host...Bring your Meeting Home" campaign next spring. "We believe we have the best facilities and best amenities you can find anywhere," explained Beukema, "so we want to en- courage people to hold their events right here at home." Once the meetings and conventions are booked, the servicing department gets to work, and this year the work was taken to new levels as bigger events and new services combined to increase activities for the department. Creating email welclll1es for conference attend- ees is among the CVD's new services. "Before attendees come to the area," Beukema explained, "Meeting and sports planners can request for their attendees to receive an email with a welcome from the CVB, directions to their lodgings, infor- mation about things to do, and any other information the planners feel their attend- ees need to have. Coming to an unfamiliar community can be challenging, and we think these emails help attendees feel more comfortable and better informed," From helping at registration to arranging tours of the community, the CVB provided a range of services to the Professional Developers of Iowa. Those services are what impressed Harkin as her organization prepared to come to the area. "The staff is phenomenal," Harkin said, "and very responsive to an organization's needs, They put people on our planning committee~something they didn't have to do~and were involved from the very start. They truly went the extra mile for us," Barb Blough of the Iowa Dental Associa- tion agrees. The association brought 3,000 dentists to the community and the lCCCVB was instrumental in ensuring everything went smoothly. "Right from the beginning, they promoted and sold us on Coralville, Iowa City, and the Marriott," Blough said, "And they helped us promote the event to our mem- bers once the decision had been made." With such a large number of attendees, housing was a key issue, The CVB took on the challenge of becoming the event's "housing bureau." "That was a very positive challenge for the servicing department," said Beukema. "It's service we know we'll be providing for big conferences many more times in the future." CVB staff also helped with on-site registra- tion for the conference, a task that was not for the faint of heart, "About 1,500 people showed up on Saturday morning," recalled Larry Carl, executive director of the Iowa Dental Association, "and as you can imagine, they all wanted to get their packets and get to their continuing edu- cation programs. It was a huge undertaking, and it all went very smoothly, " The positive ex- perience the CVB helped create has had an immediate impact. "Our intention over the next five years," said Carl, "is to be back at least twice. Our leadership was very impressed. The CVB worked very diligently to make it all work for our member dentists." Another organization that was impressed with the community~and the CVB~is the Central States District of the Barber. shop Hannony Society, The group held its meeting in downtown Iowa City in April of 2006, When the group lost its site for the 2008 meeting, organizers immediately decided to return to Iowa City, "Normally, we wouldn't be back so soon," said John Marshall of the local chapter of the organization, "but people were so impressed." The CVB was instrumental in making connections with the Iowa City Sheraton Hotel, as well as with the Englert Theatre in downtown Iowa City, The CVB also pro- vided advertising assistance and arranged for back-up transportation in the event of bad weather, The combination of a great atmosphere and great service from the CVB impressed many who attended the event, including one participant who once thought another community was the ideal place for the conference and competition. "One of the people wrote me a note," said Marshall. ''It said something like, '1 thought that no city could surpass Omaha for our event, but I was really impressed with Iowa City. It's my new favorite place for a convention.'" The Iowa City/Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau is working hard to ensure that the region becomes a favorite for many, many people and organizations. ~,....,~~y ;b4 - f~ _,~~.-"r;-.--imf~IT~lT,;::~-' " . :;1'11 ~.u~" ~.u -.11 illlUllllU~fJl ., -. ;3I!II:!l".-~'i'II:.~-'u"1I'" .....:l " .'t: _l"'f~_Ir':_l ; :LII.J~'\-III ~ifII_ ra .' :~fllilllU 1I!.~r~lt-f; 1..':.....U , ~~:;,~" .L-r:~' "t" 1!.:L.r'I.I,. d .:"F.nlill'!'l""" !'!~I!!II1t~.. ll..' ,- II: 0:', IJ!'t _.... ~,..,.... t&n jijI-, .. Ilt I ' I - C q~ u.~ -';i~ -.. _ ft~~ ell t 4 . Iii - t;{ ii;iic ~ JIIi; Il'tj~ W "11' jj,~.ni.r-i_ f~..:1 ~"I!I...., r=- . JjJ l-m"I _.._. 'y ..~,;~ .., f4"I1'"...~ '. '1 ; ~ Physicians are invited to order additional Visitor's Guides. ICCCVB plays larger role in Health Center USA, plans growth 01 programs II.. Health Center USfr L;.I,,' lOIN' ell Y, lOIN' The Iowa City/Coralville Conven- tion and Visitors Bureau has become the primary administrator of Health Center USA, a collaboration between the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clin- ics, Mercy Iowa City, and the VA Medical Center, as well as the CVB and the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. Respon- sibility for arranging meetings, setting up necessary committees, and maintaining the healthcenterusa,org web site has shifted from the Chamber of Commerce to the Bureau, "The wonderful health care available in our communities is a significant part of the local economy and draws huge numbers of people to the region," said CVB President Josh Schamberger. "Our expertise at ensur- ing that visitors to the community have a good experience makes us a natural choice to spearhead 1his important project into the fu1ure," Each year, the three hospitals host approxi- mately 770,000 medical visits from outside of Johnson County, Just like toimsts and those attending conferences, those visiting the community to take advantage of the region's health care offerings need infor- mation about lodging, dining, and other amenities in the area. "We're really trying to expand the hoteliers role to help us provide even better commu- nity hospitality," said Director of Mem- bershiplDevelopment Shane Schemmel. "To do that, we're developing suggested gindelines for properties that wish to be designated as a Health Care Partner," Potential guidelines include offering hospital rates, transportation to and from medical facilities, and non-smoking floors or rooms, as well as providing a copy of the CVB Visitor's Guide in each room. Each year the guide includes an extensive health- care directory. "Last year was the first year hotels could be designated as Health Care Partners in our Visitor's Guide," Schemmel explained. "We'll be contininng that program this year and the hope is to eventually expand it to include restaurants, as well. Like the hotels, the restaurants would have to meet a set of standards, and we believe many of them will be eager to do so." The CVB sends a Visitor's Guide to every physician in Iowa with a letter explaining Health Center USA and the various pro- grams offered in the community. "We get overwhelmed with requests for Visitor's Guides right after that letter goes out," said Schemmel. "Those guides help physicians help their patients become more comfortable as they prepare to come to our community." 'While the economic impact of the medical visits is substantial, for Schemmel and the rest of the CVB staff, much of the satisfac- tion of working on Health Center USA comes from seeing the personal impact of the programs, "These programs help people," Schemmel said, "They really do, We see that." Expansion of the Health Center USA pro- grams will provide even more assistance to individuals and families, The CVB will continue to provide leadership to ensure that our communities are equipped to wel- come everyone who is served by the area's health care providers, 4A CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 Rail/on track ~ FROM PAGE lA the train, it was clear to me that, even given the slow speed necessitated by the track's current condition, people were upbeat about a returning role for train service in the Corridor," Schamberger said, Certainly, Eliot Keller of the Iowa Association of Railroad Passengers (IARP), was among the enthusiastic. "The potential for safe, energy-efficient, lower polluting transportation offered by the passenger train being proposed is very exciting," Keller said. "Some of us see this like Field of Dreams: 'If you build it, they will come,' lARP supports the project and believes it makes sense and would give riders another choice on how to go betw een Iowa City and Cedar Rapids and points in between," Kelly Hayworth, Coralville's city admiins- trator, was also impressed by the excursion and excited for the future. "1 really enjoyed the inaugural trip on the train in August and look forward to the time when there is a permanent system in place," Hayworth said, He anticipates that the train will playa vital role in the develop- ment of the Iowa River Landing (IRL) area of Coralville, "We knew from the beginning planning stages that a cOIlllection between the IRL and downtown Iowa City was critical," Hayworth said. "The rail connection will also play an important part in providing the people that live in the lRL with an alterna- tive mode of transportation." Of course, that alternative mode of trans- portation would eventually serve residents and visitors throughout the Corridor. Lee Clancey, president and CEO of the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, believes light rail to be essential to the region, "To bring passenger rail service back to the Corridor is critical because it will more closely tie communities together that already are considered one economic region," Clancy said, "and also because it may well delay the need for wideinng the 1-380 corridor which would be far more costly than the resumption of passenger rail service." According to Jeff Davidson, director of planning and community development for Iowa City and among the coordinators of the Fifteen in 5 light rail committee, there are three reasons the investigation into the possibilities of passenger rail service has moved forward. "We have an incredible opportunity in our community because of three factors: a cen- trally located employment center, an ideally located rail line, and a private railroad com- pany interested in cooperating with us. To have all three things is virtually unheard of, and without anyone of them we wouldn't be discussing this," Davidson said. "Alliant Energy, owner of the CRANDlC, is a steadfast supporter of the exploratory process in which our communities are now engaged," said Schamberger, "The exist- ing line is sitting exactly where planners would place it if starting from scratch, and Alliant's support for the ongoing study is a crucial factor as we move forward." Davidson has a clear outline of the steps involved in moving forward. "Phase I is excursion service, and CVB is the major player," Davidson explained, "Phase 11 is local ser- vice between North Liberty, the Iowa River Landing and near Southside neighborhood in Iowa City. Purchase of rolling stock and upgrade of the rail line are major compo- nents, Phase III would expand this service to the Eastern Iowa Airport, and Phase 1 V would extend to Cedar Rapids," "the CVB plays a vital role because they can outline what the situation is and consider plans lor light rail and then gather the needed support. With a tangible plan in place, the legisla- tive bodies can help the project move lorward."" In February, many of the key players in the effort to return - Bob Dvorsky, passenger rail State Senator ~:;v~~ei ~~ /l1e incl uding the lCCCVB~will work together to pursue federal dollars to fund the next aspect of the ongoing study and to secure the capital dol- lars needed to get the train rolling between North Liberty and Iowa City, State Senator Robert Dvorsky believes the CVB will play an essential role in the efforts to secure sup- port on the state and federal levels, "There needs to be a bnngmg together of support for light rail from all the enti- ties involved," he explained, "The leg- islative bodies~both state and federal ~ can't really do any- thing until everyone is on board and they have a project they want to pursue. And that's where 1 think the CVB plays a vital role because they can outline what the situ- ation is and consider plans for light rail and then gather the need- ed support, With a tangible plan in place, the legislative bodies can help the project move forward." The CVB has been at the forefront of the light rail project from the beginning, and as the process rolls on, its leadership will con- tinue to be essential. - Dan Baldwin, presi- dent of CEO of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, believes the CVB has been central to the success of the project to date, "All of us at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation are very impressed with the leadership role the Iowa City/Coralville CVB assumed in the Fifteen in 5 light rail initiative, Of all the Fifteen in 5, this one requires coordination by the entire Conidor," said Baldwin, "This was reinforced by the huge public response to the light rail excursion in August that the CVB organized," Hayworth agrees, "We would not have got- ten to this point without the assistance of the CVB, Josh, Laune Haman and the other CVB staff have been outstanding leaders in this project." Keller sums up the CVB's contribution suc- cinctly: "The CVB is clearly keeping this project center stage in the Corridor." Schemmel and CUB see impressive membership growth . Shane Schem- mel came to the Iowa City/Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau with a mission increase membership, It was, without a doubt, an achiev- able mission. After all, the CVB Shane Schemmel offers a wealth of services for its members. Even so, it would have been dif- ficult to predict the level of success Schem- mel had in her first year on the CVB staff. "We've gained almost 100 hundred new members," Schemmel said, "taking us to 322 and counting," Schemmel's arrival as director of mem- bership/development provided the CVB with specific a point person charged with maximizing their benefits. "Much of my job is about relationship binlding," said Schemmel. "1 'm here to help our members take advantage of our services and grow their businesses as a result." Meanwhile, the growth in membership has led to the creation of some additional mem- bership categories. For example, "Associa- tions and Organizations" and "Spas and Salons" are two new categories on the CVB web site. A catering category is among those likely to be added in the near future, "We've had all these types of members for some time, but they were lumped together in other categories. Adding categories makes it easier for people to navigate to what they need," explained Schemmel. There's quite a bit of navigating to do, as membership continues to expand to include not just local businesses, but regional organizations, as well. From attractions in Cedar Rapids like the African American Historical Museum and Cultural Center of Iowa to hoteliers in North Liberty like the Sleep Inn and the soon-to-be-open Coralville Suburban Extended Stay, CVB members reflect the regionalism the organi- zation values. For Kathy Gill, co-owner of the Coralville meeting facility known as Old Town Hall. the CVB and Schemmel have been instrumental in helping her get her young business going. "Shane and everyone at the CVB have been so much help," Gill said, "They have really led me down the right path in terms of my marketing, and they've provided great referrals and led people my way, Shane provides a great level of personal care." Verne Folkmann of Lepic-Kroger, Realtors agrees. "They are very good at generating business for the many diverse companies in the Comdor," he Said, Folkmann attributes that success to the expertise of the staff put together by CVB President Josh Schamberger, "J ash and the staff are so knowledgeable and friendly, and the office location is great and serves as a gateway to the cities," Folkmann said, "They are in- novative and aware of what is happening, and can give visitors and prospec- tive residents a positive outlook of the area." ''They are very good at generat- ing business lor the many diverse companies in the Corridor" Verne Folkmann Lepic-Kroger Realtors According to Mark Ginsberg, owner of M.e. Ginsberg in downtown Iowa City, the CVB provides a necessary spark in the community. "The electricity that's coming out of the CVB has increased exponentially since Josh Schamberger came on board," Gins- berg said, "It's that electricity that makes me want to continue to be a member of the Convention & Visitors Bureau." For Ginsberg, the CVB's commitment to economic vitality, as well as its dedication to both the arts and culture and sports sec- tors, has increased the community's profile. "We're visible; we're not invisible," he said. That visibility, of course, translates into visitors, and those visitors need places to stay, Mark Ruggeberg, owner of the Brown Street Inn bed and breakfast, believes the CVB excels in its service both to members who provide lodging and to the people who stay in those establishments. "On peak weekends, the CVB does a great job providing information about who has rooms and who doesn't," Ruggeberg ex- plained, "They provide a wealth of useful information for visitors. Instead of a visitor having to call all of the establishments in the community, the CVB serves as a clear- inghouse for that information." Ruggeberg sums up the value of member- ship with an enthusiasm that explains just why Schemmel has been able to spearhead such a successful membership campaign over the course of the past year. "The CVB provides the tools for all of us to work together to promote our commu- nity. It's magnificent." CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 5A ~- :rp-Dr)t~ ..uHiDfflq Sports Authority acquires funds, increases bookings, develops new events Eight CVBs pooled resources to make an important case to the state leg- islature, and that collaboration has yielded results, "For the last two legislative sessions, the Iowa City/Coralville Convention &Visitors Bureau has partnered with seven other CVBs and hired a lobbyist to argue for state funding for amateur sports in Iowa," said ICCCVB Vice President Jillian Beukema, "This session we had success." And it was significant success. The legisla- ture has budgeted half a million dollars to be divided equally among 10 certified regional sports authority districts. The Greater Iowa City/Coralville Area Sports Authority is one of the recipients. "This $50,000 will help us continue to mar- ket the greater Iowa City/Coralville com- munity as a premier destination for sporting events," explained Beukema. "For example, we'll purchase ads in sports related publi- cations, particularly those targeted toward event planners. We'll support and sponsor tournaments and events in the community, as well, The money will also support our trade show efforts and other promotional opportunities," Because the money from the legislature plus an additional $25,000 the CVB had to pro- vide as a match must be spent by June 30, 2008, Beukema is confident the community will feel the impact of the beefed-up market- ing campaigns sooner rather than later. "This funding really helps us get the word out through more channels and in more impressive ways," she said. But even before the influx of money was announced in October, the CVB's Sports Authority had put together an impressive year of bookings, Those bookings include a four-year contract with the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union to bring the 1A (in 2010 and 2012) and 2A (in 2009 and 2011) state teunis /:....J.... Jf/II - ~ , ~...: ~ ""'Il;~ .....,_"'\y. I't. ~,\~'-_. ~/' . '~\ ,-~~:..~-~<:. _C'I .""- D~-i' ~\ ~ .~-I " , ' . ' Gary Dolphin, Voice 01 the Hawkeyes, graCIOusly MC'd the lirst annual Par-TEE tournaments to the University of Iowa's Hawkeye Tennis Complex, According to Sports Authority Past Co-Chair Terry Kaeding of the City of Coralville, that book- ing was a key achievement. "I believe the most important accomplish- ment this year was the commitment for the girls teIlllis tournaments," Kaeding said. "This gives great exposure to our commu- nity and also demonstrates the importance of working with other groups, like West High and the University of Iowa, to achieve this goal, Michelle Harder, Senior Associate Director of Recreational Services at the University of Iowa, agrees that the CVB has been a good collaborator. "They've been a great help," Harder said, "and to have the state tournaments is a big honor." In addition to being an honor, having teIlllis players and spectators from across the state visit the region will be an economic boon to the community. "We estimate that direct spending for all four years will be $474,800," said Beukema, The Sports Authority was also instnunen- tal in securing the United States TeIlllis Association/Missouri Valley Region 2007 Valley Rally which brought in youth ten- nis players from Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Omaha, The event generated an estimated $29,051 in direct spending, Troy Anderson of the Coralville Parks and Recreation Department also had a positive experience with the Sports Authority as he worked to bring the Amateur Softball Association to town. Three tournaments were held at the brand new Coralville Creekside Ballpark softball complex in July and August. "lillian's been great to work with," Anderson said, "She will do anything above and beyond the call of duty to help you out." From helping with hotel leads and bids ("I had no idea how to do that," Anderson admits) to creating welcome packets for participants, the Sports Authority provided essential services. 0.;1--- "Events like this are a huge economic boost for the city," said Anderson, "The players and families are in town for the weekend and stay in hotels, go out to eat, and take advantage of the local community," The Sports Authority was again involved with the Jingle Cross Rock Cyclocross Race, a unique bicycle event that organizer John Meehan calls the "steeple chase of bicycle racing," "The Sports Authority provided financial support for Jingle Cross Rock," Meehan explained, "Their staff also helped with advertising and communications." Greater Iowa City/Coralville Area Sports Authority 2007-2008 Advisory Committee Mike Widen, Co-Chair .................................................................... UI Recreation Services Mike Moran, Co-Chair .......... ......................................, Iowa City Parks & Recreation Dept Terry Kaeding, Past Co-Chair City of Coralville Matt Traetow, Past Co-Chair ......................................................, Sheraton Iowa City Hotel Anthony Grant ",..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,.."..".."..".., University of Iowa Anissa Wolfe ............................................ Coralville Marriott Hotel & Conference Center Toby Trail, ........................................................, University of Iowa Sports Marketing ~~~~n~(o~~~~~a ......................................................... dgr~~;i~~ ~~rk~olr~~dr~~t~;~v6S~~tS Paula Jantz" ..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..U I AthletiCS Department Damian Simcox, ..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..U I AthletiCS Department Shelly Simpson, ..................................................,North Liberty Parks & Recreation Dept, Mike Stoffregen, ..........................................,..Community Foundation of Johnson County Jeremy Withrow............................................................ North Liberty Sleep Inn & Suites Jack Zimmerman ........ Liberty Bank Doug Ginsberg "..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,..".."..".."..".."..,.."..".. M,C, Ginsberg Jewelers Mitch Gross """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" West Hig h School .'1'" ...,.. .....-...:~iIJ. "ltl.. '. ,- J, !. .......!,-t" ~ ..~, ' - " t ~,. '.-" . '~>i:\'.l...;-..1 !'O{,~.'..~,!-~'... ,,\', \'.a.,;".". tCf;.1...~._,...;.; "I!"". ~ ~ Y" . . If!, ~.,;' . J \;.~\.~';1;'_ ''.''''il~tr'" r" :'. '~i. '_:!T':~:~' ...~ ~ j-~, ;,.-I'J t... :1. ,\..J ,~,1, '_ ~J, , .. '. , " , . . h' "'.., ...~ .-.... . .- '.. ,', " , , ,- '" . '-", ' youth and adult tournaments (USTA Adult Districts, USTA Midlands Adult Tourney, USTA Youth Midlands, USTA Eastem Iowa Futures Tourney), City High Baseball little Hawk Classic, Babe Ruth Baseball, Future Stars Basketball, Iowa Disc Golf Association-State Tournament, the ProFastpitch X-treme Tour, and the Future Stars Basketball among others, "This year the Sports Authority worked to create relationships with the local sports clubs and organizations," said Beukema. "By domg this, the Sports Authonty was able to create awareness of the many ser- vices we can provide." Sports Authority Co-Chair Michael Widen of UI Recreational Services believes the Sports Authority has done a good job attract- ing events to the community. "I think the most important accomplish- ments in the past year have been the number of events we've been able to bring to Iowa City, Without the Sports Authority, most, if not all, of these events wouldn't have come to the area. We've only been operating for a couple years and we've been able to bring a good number of events to the area already," Widen said, Past Co-Chair Matthew Traetow of the Iowa City Sheraton agrees, "I would say the most important accomplish- ments this past year are definitely the events that were booked as a result of the Sports Authority. Like any new organization, it takes time and dedication before actual results or economic impact are shown, so to see the softball tournaments, tennis, and bas- ketball tournaments commit to the area was a great step for the Sports Authority," In addition to booking and servicing sporting events in the region, the Sport Authority also produced the second annual Nate Kaeding Drive-Putt-Kick Golf Tournament on June 15. The event raises money for the Nate Kaeding Sports Camps and the Russell & Ann Gerdin Iowa City Hope Lodge, as well as the Sports Authority, "Once again, the tournament was a huge, huge success," said Beukema. "We sold out both the morning and afternoon tee times and had around 250 golfers," lust as it did in its first year, the tournament featured a variety of activities on the Brown Deer Golf Club course, including the oppor- tunity to attempt some field goals, Kaeding, the former Hawkeye and current San Diego Chargers kicker, was again on hand as were several of his current and former teammates. A new event was added to the tournament festivities this year. The evening prior to the event, a "Par-TEE" was held at Slugger's, "The party was so much fun," said Beukema, "About 300 people were there to enjoy live music from Kevin B,F. Burt and take part in a live and silent auction. And, of course, to enjoy some great food grilled up under a giant tent in the Slugger's parking lot." Auction items came from throughout the community and beyond and included game/ hotel packages to the Vikings vs, Chargers and Packers vs, Chargers games, Club seat tickets to the IRL Iowa Com Indy 250 IndyCar race at the Iowa Speedway in Newton were also available as were a one- of-a-kind painting of Nate Kaeding by Jeff McNutt, a framed and autographed Nate Kaeding Pro Bowl jersey, a golf package with a new driver and putter, tickets to an event at Hancher Auditorium, and much more. "Much more" is just what Beukema and the Sports Authority staff and advisory board plan to accomplish in the next year. Sports Authority Co-Chair Michael Moran, who is the Superintendent of Recreation for the Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department, believes important groundwork has been completed that will lead to future success. "I believe we have finally set the tone for the community and made the neces- sary cOIlllections with the powers that be to be able to start encouraging groups to con- sider the Iowa City and Coralville area for their events," Moran said. All of the current and past chairs of the Sports Authority agree that Beukema's leadership is a key reason for the department's success. "Jillian has been great with our group, kept us well informed, asks a lot of questions and communicates in order to get things straight and overall does a very good job," said Moran. "I believe under her leadership we have developed into a very strong working group, one that she can depend on to provide assistance to her." Traetow agrees and sees a bright future for the Sports Authority and the communities it serves. "Jillian is the key reason why the Sports Authority is successful. She not only booked several key events for 2007 and beyond, she also developed key relationships with event planners across the state of Iowa and throughout the Midwest," Traetow said, "The Iowa City and Coralville area will con- tinue to see an increased amount of travelers coming to the area as a direct result of her efforts, This was an untapped market two years ago and to see the results that we are already seeing is great! "With many more events in the pipeline, the communities should see an even greater economic impact in the years to come." The race raises money for the Children's Hospital of Iowa, including $15,000 in the most recent event. With the help of the CVB, event orgainzers hope to attract 1,000 riders for the next race and raise $25,000, In addition to these events, over the past year, the Sports Authority has provided service for quite a number of sport tourna- ments including American Tae Kwon Do, multiple United State Tennis Association 6A CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 IRUcommittee focused ~ FROM PAGE lA engine powered by the travel, tourism, and conference industry in the Corridor." John Lundell, also of the Coralville City Council, shares his colleague's enthusiasm. "This is an opportunity to create something really special, to take an area that was dis- tressed and turn it into a vibrant part of the community," Lundell said, Lundell believes that a commitment to unique retail, entertainment, and dining options, as well as a vision of a possible ath- letic facility, harbor area, and passenger rail spur add up to a destination that will draw both visitors as well as those who will live in the district's residential offerings. "This will be an area that attracts folks of all ages," said Lundell, "from young kids to seniors and from local residents to travelers otf the interstate." To help make the vision a reality, the city has been working with The DESCO Group of St. Louis to ensure that the lRL has a cohesive and appealing feel. "As the 'master developer, 'the DESCO Group is staging the build-out of the area to maximize its return on equity both aesthetically as well as in terms of yielding sufficient funds to be self- sustaining," Schnake explained, "The variety of venues available to both visitors and locals will stimulate a self-perpetuating cycle of direct spending begetting more development" Integrating 'Stories' into the III. Consultant Deanna Trumbull has been among those working on lRL projects, She cites the importance of creating a coherent district, which includes blending the Stories project into the overall aesthetic. "Iowa River Landing is a mixed-use, enter~ tainment, retail and residential development that will create a true 'sense of place' for locals and visitors alike," said Trumbull. "This 180 acre development located on the Iowa River will create a strong destination for those look- ing for a unique multi-day experience filled with learning, entertainment, great food, and shopping, Within lRL, Stories provides an opportunity for visitors to be entertained and enlightened on the many fun and exciting dimensions of reading and literacy. This one of a kind attraction will be a very strong mag- net to this area and is a very exciting anchor for Iowa River Landing," According to draft plans for Stories, the attractor portion of the facility will combine the inherent power of the world's greatest tales with the latest in technological wonders, Stories will be a place to engage with books in new and exciting ways-from sensory-rich readings and interactive adventures based on children's classics to themed dining and shop- ping experiences. Stories will also narrate key components of Iowa's history and future, including the geologic tale represented by the Devonian Fossil Gorge and the limitless possibilities characterized by Iowa iIlllovators like James Van Allen, The educational portion of Stories will be the home of the Iowa Language and literacy Institute (ILLl), an orgainzation setting the ."h1,..I!~ .",,, :[ ~t tt' ... - ....j. .... o \t standard for the design, development, and testing of literacy models for children from infancy through age eight. With an exper- imental school and a world-class training program for parents and teachers, lLLl will expand understanding of the roots of literacy with exceptional, essential research that will maintain Iowa's position at the forefront of the field, Chris Merrill, director of the University of Iowa's International Writing Program, recog- nizes that Stories is an excellent fit for a com- _ ___ munity already well known as a center of reading I and writing, -- ~ f ~,..~~/ ' -, - t\ ~V~~/~'- .- '- Ill'!r.\ ; ~~-;" ~ ..... ~ 1. ,I ~ ~.... ~ '.,6'~' ~ .,.!: .... ,\ ..-J I (,"} ~~ '\t ~~r- .:!. "...... - "The Iowa River Landing project is potentially a very exciting project because it synthe- sizes so much of whatwealreadydo well," Merrill said, pointing out that the university's world renowned writing programs are a central part I of a wider liter- ary tradition that drives much of the creative economy in the area. He ... believes Stories is the perlect project for leading visi- tors from around Proposed illustratIOn 01 the Iowa Language & Literacy Institute INTliRSTATi.1!l:l .~~::::::~~:~~:\ the world on what he calls "a journey into the heart of storytelling," Coralville City Manager Kelly Hayworth, who has co-chaired the Stories planning com- mittee with Schamberger, echoes Merrill's comments. "Stories has the potential to be an interna- tional star for our area. Stories takes advan- tage of the strong traditions of the University of Iowa writing programs and the educa- tion tradition of our community and state," Hayworth said. "Stories will have several components including an international hall of literary achievement, an experimental school and a research center for iIlllovative education models. Stories will be a place were literacy can be celebrated," ICCCVB leadership a key part of the Stories story Hayworth hails Schamberger "the leader of the 'Stories' project,' and he's not alone. "1 am excited that the City of Coralville reached out to the broad community, with Josh Schamberger as the leader, to determine the best use for the Iowa River Landing site," said Chuck Peters, president and CEO of Gazette Communications and a member of the IRL steering committee. ''These commu- nity conversations resulted in a project that is something the world needs-a resource for the development of literacy and a celebration of the written word." IOWA RIVER LANDING ~~ Hl~"'I'.I111 IU\...... Merrill, too, credits Schamberger with provid- ing a high level of leadership, "Josh's leadership has been, at every level. inspired and inspiring," Merrill said, "He is at once level-headed and open to suggestion and very good at synthesizing the best of the advice he is given. It's been pure joy to wolk with Josh and Kelly Hayworth in bringing this project as far along as we have." Schnake applauds the commitment demon- strated by Schamberger and all those working to bring lRL projects to fruition, "Coralville and its residents-and in fact everyone in the area-are fortunate to have local leaders from the tourism, cultural, and academic arenas dedicated to realizing the suc- cess of the lRL and Stories," Schnake said, This story isn't finished yet Even with all the progress that has been made, Scliamberger IS qrnck to pomt out that the work is far from done. "We've built some essential partnerships and we're preparing to do a more complete flesh- ing out of what Stories might ultimately become," he said. "We're still soliciting ideas, still thinking hard about how to ensure the project works as a part of the lRL, still com- municating with a wide array of individuals and organizations. I'm confident, however, that we're on the right track to bring some- thing truly amazing to Coralville and the Corridor." CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 7A Clrro SlJn110W'C1~s Iller of the D~~ THE IOWA CITY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL The Iowa City/Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau played a central role in the creation of Summer of the Arts (SolA), the umbrella organization that produces the arumal Iowa Arts Festival, Iowa City Jazz Festival, Friday Night Con- cert Senes, and Saturday NIght Free MOVIe Series, Now, the CVB is playing an instru- mental role in efforts to add another festival to the SotA lineup, "Landlocked, the Iowa City International Film Festival, is striving to be Iowa's desti- nation film festival," explained festival Co- Director Bruce Heppner-Elgin, "Already Iowa's biggest film festival in its first year, Landlocked seeks to further establish Iowa's finn place as a state that strongly supports and embraces filmmaking." To do that, the festival relies on multiple screening locations, including the Englert Theater, for a wide array of films, "Landlocked pulls in the best independent films from allover the world," Heppner-El- gin said. "Shorts, features, documentaries, narrative films-Landlocked shows a wide ~~:%e%J~r:'~, to please all kinds of audi- That's an effort the ICCCVB supports so strongly that the CVB was the presenting sponsor of the inaugural festival, which took place in downtown Iowa City August 9-11. "The CVB was absolutely instrumental in making Landlocked's first festival a reality," said festival Co-Director Mary Blackwood, "In addition to the financial sponsorship, we had amazing help from CVB President Josh Schamberger and other members of his team, who helped us to find volunteers, to promote the festival, and to welcome our out-of-town guests." Heppner-Elgin agrees: "Everyone at CVB was extremely knowledgeable and help- ful, We look forward to working with them for many years to come to help develop the Iowa City area as a home base for film pro- duction and appreciation in Iowa." For his part, Schamberger was impressed with the festival, "We're big fans of Landlocked," he Said, "and we think it will be a wonderful addition to the Summer of the Arts," "Landlocked, the Iowa City International Film Festival, is striving to be Iowa's desti- nation film festival" ~. ~~ ta "We have a big festival in June with the 10waArts Festival; we have another in July with the Iowa City Jazz Festi val Landlocked Mary Duncan, new SotA happens in Executive Director August, giv- ing us a big festival in each of the summer months. And like the arts and jazz festivals, Landlocked is a free event for our residents and visitors," Schamberger Said, Like Schamberger, new SotA Executive Di- rector, Mary Duncan, believes SolA and Land- locked are a fine fit for one another. "SolA has the organization, the skill and the experience to help Landlocked work to- wards its goal of growing into a cultural cor- nerstone of Iowa, just as the Iowa City Jazz Festival and Iowa Arts Festival have grown over the years," she said. Haman leads new communications department Given how many stories the Iowa City Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau has to tell-stories about the wonderlul attractions, hoteliers, restaurants, and more that make the community attrac- tive to visitors and residents alike-it's a bit odd that the organization has never had a dedicated communications department. Never, that is, until 2007. The department may be new, but Laurie Ha- man, the woman at its head, is an ICCCVB veteran. Haman first came to the CVB near- 1y eight years ago as a member of the sales department. Four years ago, she took over '6:''l!j ,,' ',"~ I.~ management of the CVB 's facil- ity at the Coral Ridge Mall. Now, three quarters of her time is commit- ted to commu- nication func- tions, including advertising and other marketing initiatives. Schamberger, who is the 2007 ~~:de~~:~ ~~ - Bruce Heppner-Elgin directors, points Landlocked Film Festival out that the inde- pendent fihn festival fits neatly into both the schedule and the pricing philosophy of SolA, "I work with all the advertisers in our Vis- itor's Guide as well as with all of the orga- nizations that sponsor our various events," explained Haman. ''I'm also responsible for the branding of the CVB and ensuring that we're out there where we need to be." Lobbying and legislative issues relating to tourism are also atthe heart of Haman's com- munications role. She is involved in CVB efforts at the local, state, and federal level. For example, she will travel to Washington D,C. in early 2008 to lobby for federal fund- ing for the proposed light rail connection between Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, "It's a true pleasure to serve the CVB and the community in this capacity," said Ha- man, "Telling the stories about the things that make this community a special place is a great job," ~ IowftGity .-, .. C<1r;~,;'Jl1~ I _J ~. """"" ,~-=j! It '.-. '1""'''''''''' k- ':'1-- i "."" ~i:l! -" I. J=-l irdll.lj:o ii~m .....!iu-LS Haman will serve as editor 01 the ot/icial area Visitors Guide. "It's terrific that Laurie Haman Laurie's skill set is so broad," Said CVB PresI- dent J ash Schamberger, "She excels at just about everything and is the perlect person to lead our communications efforts." Haman's responsibilities include helping both CVB members and the CVB itself se- cure increased visibility. SA CVB Times, Thur., Nov. 15, 2007 COMMUNITY GIFT CERTIFICATE PARTICIPANTS In addition to being accepted at all stores theatres restaurants in Coral Ridge Mall Old Capitol Town Center and Sycamore Mall Community Gift Certificates are welcomed by these area businesses... #1 Sun Tan & Travellnc, CV Iowa House Hotel. IC IC #1 SunTan & Travel IC ev IMU-FoodService,IC 2ndWind 2.IC IC IC AbraAuto IC IC Actrve Endeavors, IC IC NL IC IC Market,CV IC Aladdln I-lestaurant, LV IC Java House-So Java House-UIHC, IC JC's Pizzeria, CV IC & Gifts, CV John's Grocery, IC IC CV CV Pizza Cafe-Mormon Trek Blvd, IC Bob's Your Uncle Pizza Cafe - IC IC IC IC CV IC CV NL & Ie IC Ridge Mall , 1 ~ ;I -,Sf) 2,~'O" ['.....",s-<.iIIFA.'1 IKJ" nl,I_"'.L.. - f...-wlAilI ~~e~~~ '-""..1.11 "'.. J1!j Im~ STn:m BlINK 'TI:U"T t:ofla.lrAN'f "'......-. ~.'"_."_I- '- 72.21fQfl3i ~ CeY;afiy J $1 --.-......-"'"-. -........-----'..- w_._.....__ _..._ ....c_._..................... ._IH........I'_c:... The Community Gift Certificate program continues to thrive, Developed by the CVB in 2005, it has grown from annual sales of $1,2 million to over $2,5 million, IC IC IC IC IC Ie FIDral Preservation Design Studio IC 2006/2007 Board of Directors: University of Iowa Athletics Mark Ginsbag, Treasurer M.C. Ginsberg JONelm, Room Service Sheraton Iowa Past Chair Clinics Astrid Bennett Iowa Artisan's Gallery Debbie Bullion Heartland Inn Tom CHe!< West Bank Council Member, City of North Jean NONlin Schnake Council Member, City of Coralville Dennis The Golden l-laug Bed Neal Roth Holiday Inn Express & Suites IC Ie IC IC IC IC (outside) IC Ie Dr,IC IC IC IC J -- CV CV IC IC CV 8akery, LV World of Bikes, IC IC Z'Mariks Zender's IC IC CV IC LinderTire Service, North Liberty Lone StarSteakhouse, CV & Gifts, IC IC CV CV Memories on Fifth, CV Ie Ie Ie jillian Beukema Vice President Kim Bothel Convention Sales Managa Jonathan Bothell Guest Savices Assistant Thaesa Dunkin Guest Savices Assistant Karla Duwa Guest Services Assistant laurieHaman Director of Communications Jennifer Howard Director of Financeand Administration Iowa City/Coralville Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff Donna Jondle Visitor Services Assistant Nick Kaeding Convention Sales Manager/Savicing Kristen Joshua Scmmberga President Smne Smemmd Director of Membmhip/Development Sandra Tonne Guest Welcome Center Coordinator Convention and Visitors Bureau Iowa HawkShop-UIHC, IC 2007/2008 Board of Directors: l-lall of Fame Room Service Hotel Vetro Neal Roth, Holiday Inn Regenia Past Chair City of Iowa City Astrid Bennett Iowa Artisan's Gallery Debbie Bullion Heartland Inn Tom Cile!< West Bank MatthON Scott Ketelsen University of Iowa Relations Gerry Kuhl Council Member, City of North Liberty Jean Nevv1in Schnake Council Member, City of Coralville Dennis Nowotny The Golden Haug Bed & Breakfast IC CV IC