HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-08-09 Bd Comm. minutes3-a')
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
JUNE 20, 1988
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jack Bock, Gerri Busse, Lorraine Dorfman, Dorothy
Fiala, Bud Gode, Geri Hall, Jean Hood, Ruth Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Emmett Evans
STAFF PRESENT: Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps
GUESTS PRESENT: Leo Cain, Wendell Thomas, Council of Elders
CALL TO ORDER/INTRODUCTION/MINUTES/PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
I
Hall called the meeting to order at 3:01 p.m. Minutes were approved as
read, all ayes. There was no public discussion.
COUNCIL OF ELDERS REPORT:
Thomas reported that Older Americans' Day at the Center was very
successful. The afternoon program was especially funny and entertaining,
and because everyone enjoyed it so much, the Council plans to have more
"happy" programs along with the more serious fare. Thomas said the
Council had $127 remaining in their budget, and they had voted to buy
badges identifying each as a Council of Elders member. Thomas said part
of this job was to receive compliments as well as complaints. They feel
the badges will make them more accessible.
In summary, Thomas said the Council was to be more visible, more upbeat,
and to encourage more participation. He mentioned that there were always
projects that needed attention, for example, the Eldercraft Shop,
September dance, etc.
Meisel said September is the birthday month for the Center, and perhaps
other events could be incorporated with the dance.
SENIOR CENTER UPDATE:
Meisel reported that each dining room table now had a plexiglass holder
for announcements.
She said that the Eldercraft Shop managers wanted to purchase new fixtures
for the shop which would offer more flexibility for display than the ones
presently in use which had been donated by Younker's and renovated by the
City. Diane Pearson, interior designer from Hansen Lind Meyer who designs
gift shops for hospitals, would be coming to look at the Eldercraft Shop.
Gode gave a report on the pool players' meeting. He said that he and Lori
Benz had met with them, and they all came away from the meeting with only
one minor suggestion for improvement - a sign indicating welcome and/or a
sign on the bulletin board. The consensus among the pool players was that
taking reservations for playing time was not necessary and was unworkable.
They also felt that a lack of friendliness was not a problem.
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MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
JUNE 20, 1988
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jack Bock, Gerri Busse, Lorraine Dorfman, Dorothy
Fiala, Bud Gode, Geri Hall, Jean Hood, Ruth Wagner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Emmett Evans
STAFF PRESENT: Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps
GUESTS PRESENT: Leo Cain, Wendell Thomas, Council of Elders
CALL TO ORDER/INTRODUCTION/MINUTES/PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
Hall called the meeting to order at 3:01 p.m. Minutes were approved as
read, all ayes. There was no public discussion.
COUNCIL OF ELDERS REPORT:
Thomas reported that Older Americans' Day at the Center was very
successful. The afternoon program was especially funny and entertaining,
and because everyone enjoyed it so much, the Council plans to have more
"happy" programs along with the more serious fare. Thomas said the
Council had $127 remaining in their budget, and they had voted to buy
badges identifying each as a Council of Elders member. Thomas said part
of this job was to receive compliments as well as complaints. They feel
the badges will make them more accessible.
In summary, Thomas said the Council was to be more visible, more upbeat,
and to encourage more participation. He mentioned that there were always
projects that needed attention, for example, the Eldercraft Shop,
September dance, etc.
Meisel said September is the birthday month for the Center, and perhaps
other events could be incorporated with the dance.
SENIOR CENTER UPDATE:
Meisel reported that each dining room table now had a plexiglass holder
for announcements.
She said that the Eldercraft Shop managers wanted to purchase new fixtures
for the shop which would offer more flexibility for display than the ones
presently in use which had been donated by Younker's and renovated by the
City. Diane Pearson, interior designer from Hansen Lind Meyer who designs
gift shops for hospitals, would be coming to look at the Eldercraft Shop.
Gode gave a report on the pool players' meeting. He said that he and Lori
Benz had met with them, and they all came away from the meeting with only
one minor suggestion for improvement - a sign indicating welcome and/or a
sign on the bulletin board. The consensus among the pool players was that
taking reservations for playing time was not necessary and was unworkable.
They also felt that a lack of friendliness was not a problem.
//S5
Senior Center Commission
June 20, 1988
Page 2
Hall said she saw two problems with the game room. She had received a
call at home from a gentleman who had been at the Center twice, and he was
questioning why no one welcomed him. The expectation of new people to be
warmly welcomed and not being so, is problem H1. Hall said problem H2 was
scheduling. She questioned whether play on the second table could be
scheduled. She also felt the welcome sign was a good idea and would be a
good project for Patty Westercamp. After the discussion, it was agreed
that a friendly welcome sign and pursuing use of the room for darts and
other games was the proper direction at this time.
MEETINGS: PROCESS AND PROCEDURES:
Hall said that she felt there needed to be some ground rules established
regarding what was the appropriate way to deal with non -agenda items that
arise during meetings. Hall was concerned about the lengthy discussion
which took place at the May meeting concerning purchasing a cabinet to be
used for storing purses belonging to the Host/Guides while they were on
duty.
Hall said that several agenda items had to be postponed because of this
discussion. She explained that she was also concerned about what was or
was not an appropriate issue for the Senior Center Commission to consider.
She emphasized that there should be a way to maintain tighter control over
the agenda.
Busse said that at the last meeting, because of the feelings displayed,
the issue needed to be handled at the time. Dorfman felt the issue was a
procedural one - SCC responsibilities and staff responsibilities should be
clarified and that the amount of time spent on discussion of any one item
should be limited.
Hall suggested that when concerns are brought to the Commission, perhaps
they should be explored briefly, and then scheduled as an agenda item for
the next monthly meeting. She said if the issue is an emotionally charged
one, holding an item for the following month would work to dispel this
somewhat.
Wagner said she sees the problem as one of communication. This needs to
improve among the Council of Elders, Senior Center Commission, and staff
in order to meet long-term needs and to benefit the long-term goals of the
Senior Center.
During the discussion several suggestions were made. Busse suggested
quarterly joint Council of Elders and Senior Center Commission executive
committee meetings. Hall agreed that the last joint meeting was a good
meeting which went a long way in improving communication. Hall said she
felt it was important that the Commission not take over the role of the
staff.
Dorfman moved that as a policy for the Senior Center Commission, items for
the agenda should be brought to the executive committee prior to the
meeting and non -agenda items should be limited to ten minutes discussion.
If more discussion is necessary, the item could be an agenda item for the
following month's meeting. Wagner seconded. Motion carried, all ayes.
//56-
Senior Center Commission
June 20, 1988
Page 3
GIFT FUND DISCUSSION:
There was general discussion regarding what gifts are acceptable and the
older policy statement which had been incorporated in the Senior Center
Bylaws.
It was decided that Meisel would rewrite this statement to include the way
the Senior Center Gift Fund actually functioned. This new statement would
be added to the Senior Center Operational Handbook.
Resolution N79-462, which established the Senior Center fund for the
management of gifts and memorials, was also discussed. This resolution,
which is on file with the City Clerk, was passed by the City Council in
1979 and contains seven steps in the gift fund establishment.
Busse felt that the word "manage" needed to be more clearly defined in
step N3. Hall said item H4 needed to be modified. This item deals with
approving expenditures and paying expenses directly related to securing
contributions.
Meisel explained it was the policy of the Senior Center staff to try to
plan so that the Senior Center budget covers as many needs as possible.
She said the Gift Fund had been used for items not covered by the City or
County. Meisel said that the Gift Fund is not used as a replacement for
other funds, but rather is a means of enriching the Senior Center for the
benefit of seniors who come here. She explained that most of the money in
the Gift Fund has come from the community - outsiders who believe in the
Senior Center concept. Meisel said during the quilt raffle fund raiser
for the computers, twice as much time was spent on the raffle process by
staff and students as that spent by the raffle volunteers.
Meisel said perhaps the five year goal committee would want to consider
fees as one means of raising money - a dollar a month or 104 per visit.
Other ways of raising money would also be considered by the committee in
setting five year goals.
Meisel said that since publicity benefits the programs and many programs
are not filmed by City cable TV crews, perhaps investing in video equip-
ment for the Center would be wise. This was a topic for future discus-
sion. Also, Hall suggested that a brainstorming session be held on fund
raising in the future.
SENIOR CENTER/COUNCIL OF ELDERS RELATIONSHIP:
Hall said she felt the information on duties and responsibilities of the
Senior Center Commission and the Council of Elders along with the short
description of each group to be very helpful.
Meisel explained that since the creation of the Council of Elders, members
have asked what its role is. This is not a problem as roles are
constantly being redefined, depending on the current membership. This
group is very active and they often feel cut off from decision making.
1iss
Senior Center Commission
June 20, 1988
Page 4
They feel since they are elected by their peers, they should have more say
about what goes on.
Hall said she understands the frustration the members of the Council of
Elders feel in trying to find their proper role. She said dealing with
the bureaucracy such as the City is difficult enough, and especially for
the Council of Elders members who, in their pre -retirement lives, were
accustomed to making decisions and seeing that these were carried out. At
the Center, as an active leader, following the chain of command also adds
to some of this frustration, Hall said.
Meisel agreed that the word "advisory" was ambiguous and that giving
advice does not always mean that it will be followed. That is also part
of the advisory role.
It was urged by Wagner and Busse that the Council of Elders and Senior
Center Commission meet together at least once or twice a year in order to
learn more about each other and in turn build a working relationship that
would be to everyone's benefit. It was agreed that an hour joint meeting
followed by a tea or social hour would be tried. Hood moved that the
Senior Center Commission invite the Council of Elders to join them in a
one-hour meeting in September to learn more about each other and to follow
this meeting with a social hour. Busse seconded, motion carried, all
ayes.
Cain and Thomas both agreed that they did feel better about what their
roles are and agreed that more communication between both groups could
only benefit the relationship.
ASSIGN MONTHLY VISITS:
The following schedule for monthly visits to Board of Supervisors, City
Council, and Council of Elders was set: July - Busse, August - Hall,
September - Fiala, October - Wagner, November - open, December - Hood.
OPEN DISCUSSION:
Several items to be considered for the July agenda were discussed,
including volunteer recognition and the anniversary in September.
Meisel told the Commission that the paid ad for the financing a nursing
home program had brought in a larger crowd and younger family members.
She said advertising would be considered as a budget item for next year.
The meeting adjourned at 5:12 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Joyce Phelps, Senior Center Secretary.
Minutes approved by Ruth Wagner, Senior Center Commission Secretary.
1155
MINUTES
IOWA CITY MUNICIPAL AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING
JUNE 21, 1988
MEMBERS PRESENT: Ashby, Foster, Ockenfels, Lewis, Blum
STAFF PRESENT: O'Neil, Sueppel, Wright
GUESTS PRESENT: Ery Moses, Fred Zehr
Chairman Ashby called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. Attendance and
guests were noted.
The minutes of the Commission's meetings on May 12, 18, 24, 25, 26 and
June 2 were considered and approved as presented.
Ron O'Neil presented an itemized list of bills for the month, and asked
Zehr to explain them briefly. The bills were approved for payment as
presented.
AIRPORT LAYOUT PLAN REVISIONS:
In consideration of Ery Moses from H.R. Green Company, it was decided to
move immediately to Item 4-e.
Zehr displayed revised ALP drawings which were prepared by H.R. Green
company since the last meeting, showing a 4500' overall length of Runway
06/24, a relocated threshold of 475 feet on Runway 30, and a displaced
threshold on Runway 12 of 275 feet, for a new runway length of 3150 for
Runway 12 and 3425 for Runway 30. Also shown was the light lane for
Runway 6, the localizer in the clear zone of Runway 24 next to the river,
and the clear zone for Runway 17. Ery Moses assisted Zehr in discussing
the changes.
Blum moved to incorporate the new drawings as the current Airport Layout
Plan, seconded by Ockenfels, and all members voted ayes.
VASI LIGHT INSTALLATION ON RUNWAY 06/24:
Ashby read Supplement #1, Lease #DOT-FA79CE-8400 regarding the addition of
two tracts of land for a Visual Approach Indicator System on Runway 06/24.
It was moved, seconded and agreed to sign the lease, and this was done.
POWER REQUIREMENTS FOR UNITED HANGAR OFFICE SPACE:
Blum explained the purpose and function of a voltage regulator which would
boost or reduce voltage to prevent extremes in power delivery at the
United Hangar office building. Ron O'Neil was asked to watch the situa-
tion and take whatever action is necessary, providing the cost does not
exceed the $2,500 limit for unauthorized expenditures.
DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT LAND FOR COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL USE:
Blum reported a conversation with the Head of the Planning Department and,
while there is nothing concrete to report as yet, Blum believes new
developments are being considered.
Airport Commission
June 21, 1988
Page 2
Ockenfels suggested some areas of grass at the airport could be grown, cut
and baled for hay rather than mowed. O'Neil will investigate.
AIRPORT BREAKFAST:
Zehr outlined the necessary chores which need to be done before the Annual
Airport Breakfast on August 28. The Sertoma Club will provide services
essentially the same as last year, and the Paper Airplane Flying Contest
will again be held.
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT:
Chairman Ashby thanked all Commission members for their efforts in
securing the new Airport Operations Manager.
Ashby requested the issue of EPA standards as they pertain to the FBO's
fuel tanks be placed on the next meeting agenda.
PUBLIC AND COMMISSION MEMBERS' INFORMATION AND INPUT:
Ron O'Neil requested clarification on several minor points regarding the
letter of agreement between the Commission and the Operations Manager.
O'Neil suggested some of the badly worn carpet in the Terminal Building be
replaced.
The next meeting was scheduled for July 21, 1988, at 7:00 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Recorder: Priscilla Wright
C rperson
A
343)
MINUTES
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
APRIL 25, 1988
MEMBERS PRESENT: Reed, Belle, Haines, Mims, Powell, Haughton, Lu,
Weilbrenner, Smithart
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
GUESTS PRESENT: University of Iowa Political Science Class
STAFF PRESENT: Alexander
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER AND STAFF:
None.
SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION:
1. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by chairperson Reed.
2. Belle moved to approve the minutes of March 28, 1988. Seconded by
Mims. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Commissioners introduced themselves to the guests.
4. In conciliation:
a. E/S & NO, 10-23-8601. Alexander has contacted both parties.
b. PA/S, 4-20-8701. Alexander will send out letters when
stationery arrives.
C. E/R, 5-9-8603. After meeting with complainant, conciliation
team members felt that this may be a problem of poor management
and a personality conflict between the complainant and the
respondent. No probable cause letters were requested to go out.
5. In legal: There are two cases currently referred to legal staff.
6. Community Education:
a. Haughton described the latest cable TV show. He advised
Commissioners that someone had recently approached him
suggesting a show on the Middle East controversy. Haughton
indicated he will follow-up on this suggestion.
b. Powell related information regarding conversations with the
Press -Citizen about an article on human rights; more
specifically, discrimination in Iowa City. Smithart plans to
approach the Daily Iowan as well.
x/57
9
Human Rights Commission
April 25, 1988
Page 2
7. Old Business: None.
8. New Business:
a. The Commission will have two representatives on the selection
committee for the new Civil Rights Coordinator.
b. Regarding HUD training in Atlanta during the week of May 30,
1988, Haughton will definitely attend. Both Powell and Belle
indicated that they might attend.
9. Staff Report: The staff report was discussed.
i
10. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
Minutes taken by Phyllis Alexander.
MINUTES
POLICE & FIRE RETIREMENT SYSTEMS BOARD - JOINT MEETING
TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 1988
MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry Donner, Elmer Beckler, Nathan Hopkins, Thomas
O'Brien, Harvey Miller, Matthew Johnson, Rosemary
Vitosh
MEMBERS ABSENT: Debora Hanson, Duane Allison, Mary McMurray
The meeting was called to order at 3:05 p.m. in the Library Meeting Room
C, Larry Donner presiding.
ITEMS APPROVED:
1. Minutes of the May 31, 1988 Joint Board meeting were approved
unanimously upon motion by Thomas O'Brien and second by Harvey
Miller.
2. A request from Fire Chief Larry Donner that Firefighter William
Farmer be considered for an accidental disability pension was
discussed. Moved by Larry Donner, seconded by Elmer Beckler, to
approve temporary disability status, authorization to schedule an
examination at University Hospitals for Firefighter Farmer and
reimbursement of all sick leave. The motion carried unanimously.
3. Fire Chief Larry Donner further reviewed his request that firefighter
David Nealson be considered for an accidental disability retirement.
An appointment has been scheduled for an examination for him at
University Hospitals on July 21, 1988. Temporary disability status
and approval of his proceeding with the examination at University
Hospitals were approved unanimously upon motion by Thomas O'Brien and
second by Nathan Hopkins.
4. Police Chief Harvey Miller discussed his recommendation that Sergeant
Bill Cook be considered for an accidental disability retirement.
Approval was given for temporary disability status, reimbursement of
all sick leave and the scheduling of an appointment at University
Hospitals upon motion by Harvey Miller and second by Matthew Johnson.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. Police Chief Harvey Miller requested that Rosemary Vitosh give a
status report on the University Hospitals examination for Loren
Teggatz's accidental disability retirement request. Rosemary
informed the Board that she had received word from the Hospitals that
the three -doctor team had not as yet reached a decision on Sergeant
Teggatz's disability status. It is possible that once all three
doctors reach their individual decisions, that they will not have
reached a consensus on his disability status. They expected to be
able to provide the doctors' diagnosis in early July, 1988. Chief
Miller pointed out that it was the Board who made the final decision
on whether or not an accidental disability retirement status was
proper; the doctors provide only a medical opinion on whether his
disability is permanent and its impact upon his ability to perform in
his current position. Chief Miller emphasized the need for filling
Police & Fire Retirement Systems Board
June 28, 1988
Page 2
the position as soon as possible due to the fact that the Police
Department suffers from a shortage of staff. In addition, he stated
that he wouldn't want Sergeant Teggatz working on the street if there
was any indication of heart disease, and since the Police Department
has no light duty assignments, it would be necessary to retire him
because of heart disease.
2. Assistant City Attorney William Sueppel reviewed the Board's current
Bylaws and Rules of Procedure and his draft Rules of Procedure based
upon those which he developed for the City of Waterloo Retirement
System Boards. Discussion followed on how to proceed with updating
the Rules of Procedure since the current rules are out-of-date. It
was the consensus that Board members should review the current rules
and the new draft rules and provide input on needed revisions. All
comments should be returned to William Sueppel in two weeks. He will
then revise the draft for presentation again to the Board at its
August meeting. The Board should make its comments in reference to
changes which should be made to Sueppel's new draft. In addition,
the Board was asked to be sure to check and compare current operating
policies and policies in the draft for accuracy. Discussion followed
regarding the need for Bylaws. Since the Bylaws are duplicated in
State law and in the Rules of Procedure, the general group consensus
was that the bylaws were not needed. This will again be considered
at the August meeting. Any Board member having specific comments on
the Bylaws should also send those to William Sueppel.
3. Assistant Attorney Sueppel reviewed new legislation (House File 2405)
and in particular those sections which pertained to Police and Fire
Retirement Systems. Changes include:
(1) allowing members of the armed services 12 months rather than 6
months to return to covered employment,
(2) increasing the minimum pensions to a beneficiary of a member who
dies under the ordinary death provision and to the surviving
spouse of a deceased member, to 20% of the monthly earnable
compensation of a member holding the highest grade in the rank
of police officer or firefighter (The increase applies to
members already receiving the benefit.),
(3) increases from 20% to 25% the percentage used in calculating
increased benefits for members retired under ordinary
disability,
(4) the costs of temporary disability of police officers and fire-
fighters are to be paid from the City's General Fund (NOTE: the
City of Iowa City has paid these costs from the Trust and Agency
Fund in the past),
(5) changing the definition of child for pensions paid to deceased
members to match the definition of child in other sections of
the chapter retroactive to January 1, 1987,
//s9
G]
Police & Fire Retirement Systems Board
June 28, 1988
Page 3
(6) the removal of spousal remarriage prohibitions for the ordinary
death benefit.
Rosemary Vitosh provided the Board with information on the additional cost
of provision #2 above. Had it been in effect during the past fiscal year,
it would have affected the pensions of seven individuals (beneficiaries)
at an annual additional cost of approximately $4,400.
The Board directed Rosemary Vitosh to prepare a summary of these
legislative changes which would be sent out with the pension checks mailed
on August 1, 1988.
Meeting was adjourned at 3:40 p.m.
1150"
9
MINUTES
RIVERFRONT COMMISSION
JULY 6, 1988 - 5:15 P.M.
SENIOR CENTER CLASSROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Apaydin, Bruner, Horton, Jones, Lovell, Stroh, Wachal
MEMBERS ABSENT: Buckley, Hradek, O'Brien
STAFF PRESENT: Rockwell, Dennis
OTHERS PRESENT: Chris Steffen, Ron Chapman
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
1. The Riverfront Commission recommends to Council that the Gay's Locker
subdivision and rezoning applications be approved. There were no
riverfront-related objections to the proposed development. The
Commission voiced a strong consensus that the development would
upgrade the site and enhance the commercial neighborhood in which it
is located.
2. The Riverfront Commission recommends to Council the approval of the
Idyllwild Development Plan as shown on the June 10, 1988, plat.
There were no riverfront-related objections to the proposed develop-
ment.
3. The Riverfront Commission recommends to Council that the City
investigate the fill situation south of Taft Speedway, determine
whether any violation of the 1987 Floodplain Ordinance has occurred,
and force removal of the fill if it is found to be illegal.
CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS:
Chairperson Lovell called the meeting to order at 5:22 p.m.
With general consensus, the order of the agenda was changed to allow the
presentation of a Large Scale Non -Residential Development proposal and two
subdivision proposals prior to consideration of the minutes of May 4, 1988
and June 1, 1988.
IMPERIAL COURT INDUSTRIAL PARK DEVELOPMENT:
Rockwell introduced Chris Steffen of MMS to present information on the
application by Iowa City Ready Mix, Inc. for a 4.6 acre, 11 lot sub-
division, Imperial Court Industrial Park, proposed east of South Riverside
Drive, south of the existing Ready Mix concrete plant and north of Moore
Business Forms. Rockwell noted that the proposed subdivision and the
Large Scale Non -Residential Development (LSNRD) plan were for property
located immediately south of Sturgis Ferry Park.
Steffen explained that Iowa City Ready Mix had purchased the existing
cement plant fronting on Riverside Drive with plans to upgrade it. Moving
the Iowa City Ready Mix operation to the new site would allow for an
expanded operation and would alleviate the problems of congestion
experienced at the Benton Street facility. When asked about the planned
//s9
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Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 2
usage for the lots designated in the southern portion of the subdivision,
Steffen replied that no specific use had been designated, but any use
established there would need to be consistent with the I-1, industrial
zoning for the area. No zoning change is required for the proposals.
Rockwell explained that the Commission was being asked to review and
comment on this development because the property fronted on the river.
She pointed out that the eastern portion of the tract must comply with the
requirements of the River Corridor Overlay Zone. Specifically, the 30'
setback from the riverbank or the floodway encroachment line should be
indicated. No development should occur in this area. Jones indicated
there could be a problem unless the conveyer system and parking lot were
relocated out of the setback area.
Rockwell also noted that the River Corridor Overlay Zone requires the
retention or replacement of vegetation that provides bank stability in the
floodway and the setback area.
Stroh suggested that since the property was zoned for the proposed
industrial use, the Commission could forward a favorable recommendation
contingent upon the developer meeting the River Corridor Overlay Zone
requirements. Lovell stated that prior to the Commission making a formal
recommendation, she would like to know what provisions the owner had made
for dumping cement waste. Apaydin expressed a concern about the dumping
of cement byproducts into the river and asked why Iowa City Ready Mix had
decided to locate along the river again. Steffen stated that the existing
cement facility at the site can be used once renovated, and that was
considered a real advantage.
Lovell requested more information about the shape of the bank and the
existing vegetation. She suggested that the Commission get responses to
their concerns prior to voting on a recommendation. Lovell asked about
the anticipated timeline. Steffen stated that the proposal will be
presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission on July 21, 1988, and
presumably to Council on August 9, 1988.
Rockwell suggested that in order to provide a timely response, the
Commission could forward a recommendation stating concerns about the
proposal to the Planning and Zoning Commission, or form a subcommittee
empowered to meet, consider and recommend on behalf of the Commission. A
subcommittee was formed and was scheduled to meet on Wednesday, July 13,
1988, at noon in the City Department of Planning and Program Development
Conference Room.
Motion: Apaydin moved, and Jones seconded, to empower the subcommittee to
make a recommendation on behalf of the Riverfront Commission concerning
the proposed Imperial Court development. The vote to approve the motion
was unanimous.
GAY'S LOCKER RECONSTRUCTION:
Rockwell informed the Commission that this subdivision and rezoning
proposal involved the reconstruction of Gay's Locker which was largely
//S7
Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 3
destroyed by a fire except for the slaughter area and the smokehouse. A
small portion of the property is in the 100 -year floodplain.
Steffen stated that the reconstruction would include more off-street
customer parking. The stormwater basin indicated on the plat should
improve drainage. A few trees will be added to comply with the ordinance.
Rockwell stated that the area is presently zoned CI -1 and that the request
is for CC -2 zoning, to allow for an expanded retail area.
Wachal asked which portion of the property was in the floodplain area.
Rockwell and Steffen indicated the elevations on the site plan which would
be considered part of the floodplain. This included only a small section
of the southeast area of the tract.
Rockwell distributed a set of guidelines and maps excerpted from the Iowa
River Corridor Study. She explained that although the Gay's property does
not fall within the 100' setback area from the Iowa River that is
considered the official River Corridor Overlay Zone, a portion of the
property lies within the 100 year floodplain area. Rockwell suggested
that the Study guidelines could be used to assess development applications
for properties outside the ORC zone, but within the 100 year floodplain.
Rockwell stated that in reviewing the Gay's application, for example, the
Commission could consider such factors as the proposed stormwater manage-
ment improvements, the lack of historical significance of the site, and
the proposed landscaping, including trees. Additionally, the site is not
specifically addressed in the Iowa River Corridor Study as an area of
concern or of environmental significance.
Jones commented that the Study maps should be updated, because a great
deal of development had occurred along the Iowa River since the publica-
tion of the maps in 1975. However, Jones and other Commission members
agreed that the rezoning and subdivision as proposed by the applicant did
not conflict with Riverfront Commission goals or guidelines for develop-
ment along the Iowa River and within its associated floodplain.
Motion: Apaydin moved to recommend approval to the Planning and Zoning
Commission and the City Council in that there were no riverfront-related
objections to the Gay's Locker subdivision and rezoning applications.
There was a strong consensus within the Commission that the proposed
development would upgrade the site and enhance the commercial area in
which it is located. Bruner seconded the motion. The motion carried
unanimously.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MAY 4, 1988 AND JUNE 1, 1988 MINUTES:
Apaydin moved to approve the minutes of May 4, 1988. Stroh seconded the
motion. The motion carried unanimously.
Concerning the June 1 minutes, Wachal stated that he had asked staff to
investigate the issue raised by Bill Gilpin about the $200,000 of River -
front money redirected to urban renewal. Wachal said his request was not
reflected in the minutes. Rockwell responded that she had information
regarding that issue to report to the Commission. Wachal stated as long
Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 4
as the issue was addressed, he would not be concerned about the request
being stated in the minutes.
Motion: Wachal moved to approve the minutes of June 1, 1988. Bruner
seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.
REPORT ON IDYLLWILD SUBDIVISION STATUS:
Several members of the Commission had conducted a site visit on June 10,
1988, and stated that their concerns about the proposed subdivision had
been resolved. Apaydin presented a video tape with footage of the
property in question and of Taft Speedway.
Rockwell distributed a letter from Barry Beagle, Associate Planner, City
of Iowa City, which stated that the revised preliminary and final plats
were received by the City on June 10, 1988, which replaced Lots 2-9 along
Taft Speedway with an "outlot." The elimination of these lots resolved
the conflict with the Floodplain Management Ordinance which required
access to such lots to remain passable during the occurrence of a 100 -year
flood. The letter further stated that if an alternative subdivision
design were to be proposed that would go beyond resolution of the
deficiency previously stated, it would be treated as a new plat.
Rockwell stated that the lots removed from residential development had
access only onto Taft Speedway which lies at too low an elevation to be
considered passable during a 100 year flood. Rockwell displayed a
floodplain map and distributed statistics on the first floor elevations of
the houses located south of Taft Speedway. She said that the Planning and
Zoning Commission was expected to take action on the Idyllwild Subdivision
proposal on July 21.
Wachal asked if the Commission could make a recommendation on this
subdivision that was contingent on the developer cleaning up the fill area
south of Taft Speedway. Bruner and Jones both responded that the Commis-
sion should keep the two issues separate. Two different properties were
involved. Further, the developer of the Idyllwild Subdivision was not the
property owner of that tract of land north of Taft Speedway.
Jones commented that the City needs an ordinance to protect fragile,
natural areas. Any fill on wetlands needs a permit from the Army Corps of
Engineers. Rockwell informed the Commission that Frank Farmer, City
Engineer, had authorized fill in the area south of Taft Speedway in 1982.
Jones pointed out that the authorization preceded passage of the 1987 City
floodplain ordinance which requires a permit for fill in the floodplain.
He further stated that vigorous attempts should be made by the City to
look into the legal status of this fill.
Motion: Apaydin moved to recommend to the Planning and Zoning Commission
and the City Council the approval of the Idyllwild Development Plan as
shorn on the June 10, 1988 plat. There were no riverfront-related
objections to the proposed development. Stroh seconded the motion. The
nation failed with a vote of 3-2-2.
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Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 5
Lovell asked if the Iowa River Corridor Stud, indicated that the area
proposed for subdivision should never be developed. No other Commis-
sioners thought this had been stated in the Study.
Jones again expressed concern about the legality of the fill and stated
that it was not the Commission's responsibility to examine this, but
rather the Commission should recommend that the City staff investigate
this issue.
Motion: Wachal moved to recommend approval of the Idyllwild Subdivision,
contingent upon the developer having satisfied state, federal and City
regulations with respect to the use and the storage of fill. There was no
second. The motion was retracted.
Motion: Yachal moved that the Commission reconsider Apaydin's motion
recommending approval of the Idyllwild Subdivision. Lovell seconded.
Motion carried.
Motion: The original motion by Apaydin and seconded by Stroh to recommend
approval of the Idyllwild Subdivision passed with a vote of 5-2.
Motion: Jones moved and Yachal seconded the motion that the Commission
recommend to Council that the City investigate the fill situation south of
Taft Speedway, determine whether any violation of the 1987 Floodplain
Ordinance has occurred and force removal of the fill if it is found to be
illegal. The motion carried unanimously.
REVIEW OF SUGGESTED FLOODPLAIN AND RIVER CORRIDOR OVERLAY ORDINANCE
AMENDMENTS:
Rockwell stated that the Commission had requested staff to draft an
amendment to the River Corridor Overlay Zone. Specifically, it had been
requested that Section 36-45(b)(2) of the Zoning Ordinance be revised to
remove the discretionary nature of whether the 30' setback could be from
either the floodway encroachment line or the riverbank by decision of the
property owner. The amendment as drafted would make the floodway
encroachment line the only basis of the setback.
Rockwell said that if the Commission approved the draft amendment, the
next step would be to forward the recommended zoning amendment to the
Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. A background memo
would be needed to explain the reasoning for the change and possible
ramifications of the amendment.
Commission members were supportive of the amended section as drafted.
They felt the main reason for the amendment was to remove ambiguity from
the ordinance. Jones stated that objections to the amendment might be
raised by developers, particularly in those areas where the floodway
encroachment line was further back from the river than the riverbank. It
was also noted that the average property owner might find it difficult to
determine where the riverbank is as defined in the ordinance: "water
level line at 6,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) outflow from the
Coralville Dam."
Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 6
Motion: Jones moved and Wachal seconded the motion to approve the draft
of the ordinance amendment for Section 36-45(b)(2), and recommend that it
be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and then to the City
Council. The motion carried unanimously.
Jones offered to assist Rockwell in developing a background memo to
accompany the recommended ordinance amendment.
UPDATE ON FISHING ACCESS BELOW THE BURLINGTON STREET DAM:
Rockwell informed the Commission that a planning intern had examined
property ownership between Harrison and Prentiss Streets on the east bank
of the Iowa River. Some streets are platted in what was called "Old
Town," and may still belong to the state. The County Recorder's records
do not show who owns the property between the streets. It has been
suggested that the CRANDIC Railway maps may indicate ownership for the
property. In the meantime, the City legal staff has been requested to
give an opinion on whether the streets are still state-owned, and if so,
whether the City should apply for the patents for the streets. Jones
found it interesting that the 1975 map from the Iowa River Corridor Study
indicates that the land in question is public.
Rockwell stated that both she and the intern found it difficult to
envision the type of improvements that could be made on this property for
recreational fishing other than to ask that access to the river be kept
open both for fishing and rescue vehicles. Wachal said that Stroh had
made it clear at the June 1 Commission meeting as to the type of improve-
ments which could be made: a path, trash barrels... Stroh thought that
the first thing to be resolved was property ownership.
DECISION ON "RIVER CITY" WORKSHOP INVOLVEMENT:
Rockwell requested that this item be deferred to the August 1988 agenda,
when the Commissioners will be working on the 1988 Annual Report and
determining an activity plan for FY89. The Commissioners agreed to defer
the item.
REVIEW OF COMMISSION SCOPE AS FRAMED BY ENABLING RESOLUTION:
Lovell stated that she had questioned the Commission appointment notice
and the language of the City's FY87 Annual Report which states that the
Commission's scope is within the City of Iowa City instead of within
Johnson County. Jones thought that the Iowa City Council cannot mandate
the Commission's authority to be broader than the City jurisdiction.
Rockwell commented language could be added to the enabling resolution to
state that the Commission includes representatives from Coralville and
Johnson County.
Stroh commented that the Coralville representative acts as a liaison to
the Coralville Council, and that the Johnson County representatives act as
liaisons to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. Jones stated that
the Commission should not make a formal recommendation to change the
wording. He prefers to leave it as it is; that the informal process is
working well.
//.s9
Riverfront Commission
July 6, 1988
Page 7
Lovell raised the point that the advertisement for Riverfront Commis-
sioners does not mention the multi -jurisdictional membership of the
Commission. Rockwell stated that Coralville and Johnson County advertise
for their representatives to the Commission, and the ad Lovell was
concerned about was directed to potential City representatives, who must
reside within the Iowa City limits. The Commission decided to take no
action.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS:
Wachal directed attention to the memo to the Commissioners from Rockwell
regarding 36 CFR Part 357 - Shoreline Management Civil Works Projects
Proposed Rule, Department of Defense, Corps of Engineers, Department of
the Army, Federal Register, second paragraph: "Shoreline Management does
address the fact that all shorelines, lakes or rivers, are covered by this
regulation. This more clearly allows its application to a situation where
the Corps holds fee simple title to the shoreline." Wachal asked what the
practical consequences of this rule were for the Commission? Rockwell
said she would contact Jerry DeMarce, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for
information.
ADJOURNMENT:
Lovell declared the meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted by Mary Ann Dennis.
g
MINUTES - SPECIAL MEETING
RIVERFRONT COMMISSION
JULY 13, 1988 - 12 NOON
PPD CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Horton, Jones, Lovell, O'Brien, Wachal
MEMBERS ABSENT: Apaydin, Bruner, Buckley, Hradek, Stroh
STAFF PRESENT: Rockwell
OTHERS PRESENT: Larry Schnittjer, MMS
The Commission held the special meeting in order to expedite review of two
proposed riverfront developments:
1. Review of the Imperial Court Industrial Park Subdivision and LSNRD
application submitted by Iowa City Ready Mix, Inc., for property
located just south of Sturgis Ferry Park.
2. Review of the Jim Glasgow permit application to the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers requesting permission to fill property located west of
North Dubuque Street and south of Taft Speedway.
Following presentation and discussion of these items, the Commission
formulated and unanimously approved the following recommendations to
Council:
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
1. The Riverfront Commission recommends to Council that approval of the
LSNRD and subdivision applications submitted by Iowa City Ready Mix,
Inc. be conditioned on 1) modifying the location of the materials
handling units and the future parking lot to comply with the 30 -foot
setback requirement of the River Corridor Overlay Zone, 2) providing
and maintaining, not waiving, the required vegetative screening along
the riverbank, and 3) indicating the location of the waste pit and
providing assurance that the pit will be properly maintained to
prevent overflow of cement waste into the river.
2. The Riverfront Commission recommends to Council that concerning the
Glasgow application for fill and riprapping, the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers be formally requested to enforce the wetlands provisions of
Section 404, the Clean Water Act. Specifically, the Corps should
require the property owner to remove fill from areas of the tract
which had been determined by the Corps to be wetlands and restore
those wetlands to previous conditions.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:30 PM.
I