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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987-06-02 Bd Comm. minutesMINUTES IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION APRIL 16, 1987 MEMBERS PRESENT: Lewis, Tiffany, Ashby, Foster, Blum STAFF PRESENT: Zehr, Wright GUESTS PRESENT: D. Stiegel, T. Anderson, E. Jones, H. Jones, D. Houston Lewis called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. The minutes of the March 19 meeting were considered and adopted as presented. PRESENTATION OF BILLS: Zehr called the members' attention to an itemized list of bills for the month. He explained an expenditure for runway lights as required by the FAA and another for the removal of a tree which had been identified as an obstruction. He also explained a reduction of about $4,000 in the premium for liability insurance. There have not been any liability claims for the last five years. The bills were approved for payment as presented. COMPLIANCE PROJECT REPORT: Zehr reported the compliance project is proceeding as scheduled. Avigation easement offers have been made to the involved parties and negotiations are underway. Two of the offers have been refused and condemnation proceedings will begin, but negotiations will continue during the proceedings. Runway 24 will be closed April 20 for reconstruction work, with completion probable in June. IOWA CITY FLYING SERVICE RENTAL RATES: I Zehr has provided attorney Barker with additional information regarding repair and insurance expenditures and is now awaiting a response from him. A meeting is scheduled for April 20. It was moved, seconded, and approved to extend the deadline for renewal of the lease to May 14, the date of the next general meeting, again with the stipulation that the agreement which is finally reached will be retroactive to January 1, 1987. DEVELOPMENT OF AIRPORT LAND FOR COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL USE: Zehr and Blum explained the City may be needing 5-8 acres of land to replace a public works storage area which may soon be sold. The airport has about „y P. 18-25 acres of land between runways 30 and 35 which is available for develop- ment. This proposed use would include the development of an access road and utilities. Blum suggested rezoning be added to the deal, thus resulting in a parcel of land which would be very attractive to a potential industrial developer. Blum will report a favorable reaction to the City planners. 7O Airport Commission April 16, 1987 Page 2 COIN TELEPHONES: Zehr has received notice from Northwestern Bell that low usage of the coin operated telephones at the airport will necessitate removal of the phones or a daily fee of $2 minus the daily average of coins collected during the period. The only other option would be to purchase a telephone. All options will be investigated and the matter will be placed on the next agenda. CHAIRMAN'S REPORT: Lewis presented a framed certificate of recognition and expressed his per- sonal appreciation to Joe Tiffany for his contributions as Commission member and chairman on the occasion of his last meeting before moving to the west coast. PUBLIC AND COMMISSION MEMBERS INFORMATION AND INPUT: Dave Houston suggested the Commission check carefully Northwestern Bell's price for a telephone line which would be used with the privately owned coin operated phone. E.K. Jones suggested the Commission check Northwestern Bell's franchise to determine if the phone company is required to furnish a phone for the munici- pal airport. He also suggested an alternative location for the City's serv- ice facility but was informed by Blum that the idea has already been considered and rejected by the City. Zehr announced the VFW clubs plan to refurbish Old Jet on Saturday, April 18. The airport breakfast is tentatively scheduled for August 23, with a program similar to last year's. Zehr invited any interested party to drive with him on Tuesday, April 21, to the Iowa airports' conference in Fort Dodge. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Recorder: Prescilla Wright. r dal MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION MARCH 11, 1987 MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Kattchee, Ruth Wagner, Geri Hall, Jean Hood, Dorothy Whipple, Bill Coen GUESTS PRESENT: Milo Pecina, Carrie Lewis, CoE, Rita Agunda STAFF PRESENT: Bette Meisel, Joyce Phelps CALL TO ORDER/MINUTES: Michael Kattchee called the meeting to order and introduced Lorraine Dorfman, new Senior Center Commissioner, and asked her to relate information about herself. Dorfman is an Associate Professor of Home Economics at the Univer- sity of Iowa where she does research on aging and retirement, teaches a course of Aging in the Aging Studies Program, and supervises students in the field such as at the Senior Center and in nursing homes. She added that her main interested is in aging. Hood introduced her guest, Rita Agunda, who is a Family Studies student from Ghana. The minutes of February 18, 1987, were approved as read. COUNCIL OF ELDERS REPORT: Pecina reported that an election for Council of Elders was forthcoming. Anyone wishing to run for this office should submit an application by April 8. The election will be held on Older Americans' Fair Day at the Senior Center on May 19. He also reported the preparations for Older Americans' Fair were under way. Work on the development of the new informational booklet and speaker's bureau for the Center is progressing. SENIOR CENTER UPDATE: Meisel reported that when a tour survey was taken the last time, the top requested trip was a visit to Prairie Home Companion radio show. The Tour Volunteers obtained 44 tickets to the Davenport presentation of this radio show, and there are 20 tickets left. Meisel said two recent successful events at the Center were the Grapevine Wreath -making class and a workshop on Supplementary Health Insurance to which 73 people came. Coen and Wagner both agreed that the workshop on insurance was indeed help- ful. Meisel reported that a meeting with the pool players was scheduled to discuss various problem areas with the tables, lights, etc. Meisel reported she would be on jury duty during most of March and out of town to the National Council on Aging Conference from March 28 to April 2. 74 1 Senior Center Commission March 11, 1987 Page 2 She added that money was received from Pilot Club of Iowa City for the pur- chase of a cordless microphone which we now have. She said that the VFW Post #2581 which, meets at the Center is also interested in giving some money to the Center. She has told them about the needed equipment for the new dark room. LIBRARY LADDER REPORT: Coen reported that he and Goss had gone to Amana and acquired a bid on the library ladder from Schanz Furniture Company. This company made the desks and chairs for the Old Capitol. The ladder will be of oak, 24 inches high, and will be safe and sturdy. The cost would be $230 with delivery in two months. Coen moved that the Commission accept the bid of $230 by Schanz Furniture. Hall seconded. Kattchee suggested approval with the addition of spring-loaded or retractable casters for safety. Motion carried, all ayes. Hall moved that the Committee (Coen and Goss) investigate casters so that the piece can be moved easily without loosening the joints and not cost more than an additional amount of $150. Hood seconded. Motion carried, all ayes. FUTURE MEETINGS: There was general discussion on the best times and days for future meetings. Meisel emphasized in the past the Commission had met at different times as by members' work schedules. Hall moved that the Senior Center Commission meet- ing be moved from the second Wednesday to the third Monday to run from 3 p.m. until business is completed beginning on April 20, 1987. Dorfman seconded. Motion carried all ayes. The next meeting (April 20) was designated as an orientation meeting and would last from 3 p.m, until all business was completed. Future meeting dates would be May 18 at 3 p.m. and June 15 at 3 p.m. There was discussion about what the orientation meeting would include. Kattchee said he wanted to be careful not to curtail or limit discussions on any items at the orientation meeting and therefore three hours would be allotted in case it was needed. Meisel said she planned for Lori Benz and Susan Rogusky to explain what they did and also how the Council of Elders fits into the organization. Kattchee said he felt that after a time on the Commission, all members should be able to conduct tours of the Center and speak knowledgeably about it. /�"•i;,, Hall added that there were philosophical issues that should be dealt with in orientation, for example, volunteering and how it works and who benefits. It was decided to wait until the May meeting to discuss the survey results. Whipple suggested sending thank -you letters to the participants. Members agreed to this. • FAQ .P' Senior Center Commission March 11, 1987 Page 3 CHAIRPERSON'S REPORT: Kattchee explained to the Commission that he had received a co tion accompanied by a letter from Robert Welsh, Chair of the Nutrition Advi- sory Board for Congregate Meals. PY of i resolu- tion which was concerned with the ideatethata was for Meals were being discriminated against because the cover letter for the volunteer dinner given annuallyb Y were not included Congregate Center staff to honor the voluteers he Senior Center Commission and Senior craft Shop, teaching classes, Planning work as Host/Guides, in the Printing the Senior Center —Post, gdo ours and trips , lead in Elder - the Center going. g various other duties which activities, The resolution was signed by Lorna Mathes and Jeanne Osborn as a committee. Kattchee said had no philosophical problem with having a volunteer dinner for every volunteer in the community; however, the Congregate Meals program was s separate organization, with separate funding, separate advisory board, and separate jobs. Also, he said the Congregate Meals volunteers are recog- nized by their own agency with free lunches and an annual picnic. Hall was concerned with the language used and wondered why minutes the Advisory Board did not said he show the assigning of the committee. was concerned that he did not know of this letter until after were mailed to the Cit Kattchee copies He did not feel that y Manager, Board of Supervisors, and Russ Proffitt. arise, and he was inwfavor oftasmoreodirect oto deal with problems that may would go to the next Advisory Board meeting on pMarch to problems, He said he Meisel said that this h'd 23, 1987, at 1:15 p,m, She explained that a been mentioned before by Congregate Meals staff, have many volunteers landldoSnt �tgetheirSvolunteers to be at the Senior Center Commission volunoexpe teer dinner,ave Adult Day program all addeds boardwho are free to plan anything for ythese volunteetheir n fund in g and advisory rs that they want, she Hail said she felt that the tone of the letter was settingu situation, Kattchee agreed but he said he refuses to believe that the Pose of the letter was to create that feelinan g. Pan adversarial can honor their volunteers an g• He reiterated that an ur- to have a dinner, Congregate Meaishcanwcertai certainly do thmmission had decided he said; He added that you cannot have a decent volunteer process without a lot of work. y wish, OPENDI_ SESSION: Coen inquired about the grease trap and that R.M. Boggs Company would provide would put down the drains, and the Center drain once a year. If this did not solve be considered. sewer back-up problem. Meisel said a substance which Congregate Meals would pay Roto Rooter to clean the the problem, other methods mould '0?00 .w Senior Center Commission March 11, 1987 Page 4 Whipple announced that Lorna Mathes was chosen Outstanding Senior Citizen from Johnson County and suggested sending a letter of congratulations to her. Kattchee indicated that he did not feel very sympathetic to the idea since she had accused the Commission of discrimination. No one else spoke in favor of Whipple's suggestion, and since there was no more business for discussion, the meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m. pir gg,90 MINUTES RESOURCES CONSERVATION COMMISSION APRIL 13, 1987 MEMBERS PRESENT: Duffy, Moreland, Pelsang, Singer STAFF PRESENT: Schoenfelder MEMBERS ABSENT: Vogel, Goodwin, Crain PUBLIC PRESENT: Michael Lee Vice President, A-JEM, Inc.; Frank DePirro, Cedar CALL TO ORDER: 7:37 p:m. Duffy arrived at 8:00 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Singer moved that the minutes for March 9 be approved; seconded by Pelsang. ENERGY CONSERVATION DAY: Pelsang presented the Commission with the results of her work in organizing a conservation day with local schools. She said that topics on conservation can be drawn on paper by each classroom in the Iowa City School District and distributed to area businesses. Samples of donated paper, 36"x240, were presented to the Commission. Pelsang has a list of all area schools and can divide this list among the RCC members so they can contact that school about a conservation day. Singer, suggested that Pelsang clarify and outline the specific goals and functions of the schools, businesses and RCC. PRESENTATION BY MICHAEL LEE: The representative of A-JEM outlined the latest inventions by his business. Specifically, a method of conserving energy in fluorescent lighting fixtures througsynhronized reduce consumption ulses was tupthe RCC memto 75% in as an optimal setting of inightingtsometimioned e tinhthel futureIowa and wanted btheblCommission this to remain informed of this product's progress. MEDIA: .o• Duffy stated that he would prefer to review the HOME ENERGY SAVERS MANUAL in order to graphics.flnd Duffyeintends torbringithesen along "tips" to the en xttmeetingsfortion ap- proval . Resources Conservation Commission April 13, 1987 Page 2 CORALVILLE MILLDAM PRDJECT; Moreland moved that the Public Works Moreland; seconded by Pelson staff recommendations continue its effort to explore galte Moreland c°mnented on the Milldam be energy that the City should Singer moved that the 9y sources and conservation, mation on Mhat RCC staff person present to the feasibilit Privately funded sources have detethebout Commission more infor- y of the Milldam; seconded by Duffy.rmi ed OTHEROTHER-c the economic None, ADJOADJO L Moreland moved for adjournment; Pelsang seconded, Adjourned 9;00 p.m. eve? 09 .P' MINUTES HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION APRIL 27, 1987 MEMBERS PRESENT: Haughton, Farrant Haines, Belle, Smithart, Reed, Weilbrenner, MEMBERS ABSENT: Mims, Powell GUESTS: 6 University of Iowa Political Science students; John McDonald, City of Iowa City City Councilor STAFF PRESENT: Alexander RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: The Human Rights Commission has carefully considered Roger Simon's request that the protected class of ex -convicts be added to the City's non-discrimi- nation ordinance. The Commission has not found at this time a need to in- clude ex -convicts and recommends the City Council does not amend the non-discrimination ordinance as requested by Mr. Simon. RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER OR STAFF: None. SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION: 1. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Chairperson Farrant. 2. The guests introduced themselves. 3. Reed moved to approve the minutes of the March 23, 1987, meeting. Sec- onded by Haines. The motion passed unanimously. 4. In Conciliation: a. E/A, 12-31-8602. The team found No Probable Cause. b. E/O, 4-18-8603. The team found No Probable Cause. c. E/R, 6-6-8604. A final determination will be made soon. d. E/O, 6-23-8605. A final determination will be made soon. e. E/R, 7-8-8605. A final determination will be made soon. f. H/R, 8-20-8602. The team found No Probable Cause. 5. Cases in Legal: There are four cases in legal. 730 Human Rights Commission April 27, 1987 Page 2 6• Cases Opened; Three cases have been opened, 7• Tansey V. Farkus (H/R, 7-11-8601), Smithart moved $2,500, Smithartt0 increase the dent' felt the increase �lainant's damano. fr Discussion disregard to ensued, warranted in view °m $1,000 to drew her motion, The motion the City's non-discrimination Probable Belle moved was seconded b of tordinapon- Cause, Weilbrenner to accept the a Haughton. Smithart ordinance unanimously, Haughton stated he p Hearin with - over and beyond" seconded the mot. n9 O Officer's s finding of dThe mot amages suggested bw�th his discriminatory iscriminator Respondent had definitelpassed her earlier est ed y the Hearing Officer y behavior and felt the Y gone moved the $1,034o TThe motion failed for be doubled $1,000 ayes and remedy be doubled to $ a lack op Smithart reiterated one abs tens ion 52,0 34,68, a second, Haughton 8• Community (Haines), The motion passed, Reed seconded, Six � Y Education; Haughton described Deputyentitled CivilRightsthelasttelevision show for future Director the til Rights he guests wered on pLouis3� ' Executive to ! Civil 1987 doing shows discussed. ar ap ids Civilommaskyhtsss on, and FloydMJones, 9 a second shownartRi Commission, Haughton asked °n Big Mountain.. Smithart w if We consider lighting the Co What format the Commissioners t Will could on cases, mmission, Farrant su wanted forlk t0 Haughton, Also, Alexanderthart suggested Farraotsted giving the the show high - West High duringadvised the Commissionerse the Comnissione��c information t, On which incldedeir International Da that she s interviewed, color 1) an Over Y and gave a Poke to students at and 3� 2) an explanation op erview regard in three-part presenta- why the students the duties of 9 America's conflict 9 should be interest ed {�eaniiil Rights S over Old Business: ism war Specialist, a• Reconsideration ation of Ex -Convicts report, Belle had talked as a Protected �°g�trSlmon's request, Strait B• Strait who There was Y has ex -convicts. as told Belle no In the Opinion regard in a Protected as other conmisiaionware of stoner's discussion of Perception class. Parrott offered her again offered to the issue during the can, tional information Co an agency in Virginia April 1987 the Commis - decision, mmissioenc if meeting, Belle not heard Weilbrenner, who felt was needed Prior was any addi- of any problems Works for Job Service pri°r to making a emPloyment due to their ex -convicts are o reiterated be drafted to Mr, ax -convict experiencing he has taken Into Simon statin status, Haughton a regarding consideration, hgveYerhis arguments and moved a letter the Commission has snot have been found at 736 .o• Human Rights Commission April 27, 1987 Page 3 b. this time a need to include ex -convicts as a protected class, Sec- onded by Weilbrenner. The motion passed unanimous) volun- teered to write the letter.Y• Farrant U.S. 88 - Alexander explained and encouraged Commissioners to become members of the Iowa Citizens' Assemblywhich is a part of the U.S. 88 project sponsored by the Roosevelt Center for American les. Assembly members will be taught various issues candidates are most like) Policy stud- nu - clear disarmament y to address such as Central presidential question the presidentialnd will candidatese special opportunity Atormeet and 10. New Business: a. Race Sensitivity Workshop - Reed reported. Reed and Alexander at- tended a race sensitivity workshop on Saturday, April 25, 1987, sponsored by the Bahai and the Cedar Rapids Civil Rights Commission. The workshop had the potential for seriously dil R into issues concerning racism on the part of the short because the facilitator g sensitive tor facilitator, was more of aparticipants but fell challenged. Reed indicated although she was nataboredpashe wasanot b. Racially offensive merchandise - Reed reported that she has seen merchandise in several stores that she finds offensive. mer- chandise is usually referred to as part of the folk art or country market and includes watermelons with black faces on them uch dolls which are obese, black cloth dolls with scarves tied on their heads, pich are y dolls , mannie dise as slavery memorabilitc. Alexander characterized the merchan- to the various stores and check F the merchandisent asked eoutnm�Durj�ers to go meeting Commissioners will discuss further and action, if any is taken, may include speak in 9 the May stores to the Iowa CivilRightsConnissore iro�p whohasreport nitiaited the an Action Plan for the Elimination of Racial Prejudice in Iowa, the gIowa City Human Rights Commission writing the store proprietors or report- ing this phenomenon to the press for their consideration and investi- gation and perhaps an article. Housing Outreach Program - Alexander asked Commissioners for permis- Sion to purchase a media Midnight Oil for the Minneapolis dDepartmened ty ofheCiviluRi prcompany oduction The media package includes five video PSAs and eleven radio PSAsThe person- alized with appropriate jurisdictional information. viewed the package and considers it of high content. Alexander was advised to contact theWaterlooand excellent Rapids Human Rights Commissions (they are part of the TV viewing audience) and ask if they would be interested in going in on the purchase. Commissioners asked to preview the package after Purchase and prior to being shown on TV. 730 Human Rights Commission April 27, 1987 Page 4 11. The staff report was discussed. 12. The meeting adjourned at 8:20 P.M. 730 ,P' MINUTES COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS APRIL 21, 1987 - 3:30 PM IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM B MEMBERS PRESENT: Becker, Cooper, Hulse, Kubby, Kuhn, Leshtz, McCoy, Rawland, Ruff, Snider MEMBERS ABSENT: Patrick GUESTS PRESENT: Jim Swaim (UAY), Peg McElroy (MYEP), Homes) Bill McCarty (Youth STAFF PRESENT: Milkman, Mullen, Nugent, Penney, Trueblood RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL 1. CCN recommends that the City Council allocate $7,500 in 1987 CDBG funds to extend the asphalt trail at Napoleon Park approximately 500 feet to the south parking lot and create 2-3 handicapped accessible parking spaces. 2. CCN recommends that the City Council use the remainder of the $10,000 allocated for handicapped accessible doors at the Old Capitol Mall Ramp, handicapped accessible doors at both entrances of the Iowa City Recreation Center and, if funds permit, at the Civic Center. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES Kubby called the meeting to order at 3:30 PM. the minutes of the March 17, 1987, meeting. Rawland moved to approve passed unanimously. 9• Snider seconded. The motion PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION The guests introduced themselves: Jim Swaim of United Action for Youth, YouthcHom s,oallhcame told discuss th EtheoJoint Yount Program h aggand ency Center McCarty of suggested that the next month's CCN agenda include a report from Nugent the Revenue Committee members, the revised CDBG budget, and comments regarding the Citizens summary on the City budget. The 'City Council discussed CCN'$ recommendation of last month to allow u City's rental rehabilitation vouchers to o used for single has not non -handicapped l to 20� of the are not in agree entlon thissmattertaf the Housing Commissiongand CCN -involved made no ruling yet, HUD has the final authority and has STATUS OF THE 1987 CDBG FUNDING ALLOCATION Milkman reported that the City has received written notification that it Will be getting $79,000 in additional CDBG funds for 1987. The total amount of money available is listed on the last page of Milkman's April 15, 1987, memo. Current project allocations are; ?.3 / .W W Committee on Community Needs April 21, 1987 Page 2 Youth Homes Benton Creek Drainage Project $100,000 Ralston Creek Bank Stabilization Six Housing Rehabilitation 111,000 11,770 Programs Elderly Services Elderly Housing Repair 180,000 Coffeit Place Renovation 8,000 Curb Ramp Installation 13,000 Handicapped Accessible Doors -Old Capitol Public Service Agencies Center 10,000 General Administration 81,300 Planning 100,000 Contingency 10,000 Total 45FIT'N- When the total funds available for the Public Service Agencies is known, staff will recommend funding a minimum number of agencies with which to have contact, provided such an arrangement would not require an extra audit expense for any of the agencies. This will reduce administrative costs. NAPOLEON PARK HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE PARKING LOT Terry Trueblood, Director of Parks and Recreation, reported that the original Napoleon Park parking lot proposal for handicapped parking had been withdrawn. The engineers had advised against it due to slope prob- lems at the site. Also, enforcement problems were envisioned because the three new handicapped accessible parking sites would be much closer to the park than the rest of the parking spaces. Trueblood distributed maps showing the new proposal. It called for an additional 500 feet of paved path to connect the current south parking lot with the bathroom. Two or three paved handicapped accessible parking spaces would be built in the corner of the existing parking lot. The total proposal cost $7,500. Becker asked who would do the work. Trueblood said it would be contracted out. Rawland asked how much extra it would have to be to have three parking spaces instead of two. Trueblood said he thought the $7,500 would cover three spaces, but was saying two to three spaces to be conservative. Ruff noted that this alternative plan would not work well for ambulatory handicapped persons. Trueblood commented that the regular parking lot was slated for improvement in three to four years. JOINT YOUTH AGENCY CENTER PROPOSAL Jim Swaim (United Action for Youth), Peg McElroy (Mayor's Youth Employment Youth Program), and Bill McCarty (Youth Hones) explained the Johnson County answeredrquestions,ices UnitedtiontActionC oriYouth,�the Mayor'ss need rYouthiEmploymand ent Program, and Youth Homes are in the process of coordinating their efforts through the Johnson County Youth Services Foundation. Board of Directors of the Johnson County Youth Services Foundation is made up of two board representatives plus the director of each of the three agencies involved. It has become clear to these agencies, from their intra -agency discus- sions, that a merger is not. appropriate. Youth Homes,for instance, is well on its way toward purchasing and renovating a house. The programs of 7'3/ Committee on Community Needs April 21, 1987 Page 3 these three agencies are such that they would not combine well. Some cooperative efforts, however, would benefit all agencies and that is the reason for the formation of the Johnson County Youth Services foundation. Fundraising. and administration are two areas where cooperation would be beneficial to all agencies. The Johnson County Youth Services Agency would like to buy a building to house all three youth agencies. Whatever money CCN could provide would be appreciated. Having a large chunk of money in hand helps secure further funding. The administrators of the State Historical Society has property they plan to sell on Iowa Avenue. The property has been appraised at $140,000 to $160,000. The Historical Society needs approval by the legis- lature this session to sell the house. They would like to know if CCN is interested in possibly providing partial funding toward the purchase of this house for the Johnson County Youth Services Agency. This building would be suitable to accommodate administration, counseling, and a synthe- sis studio. Since the adjacent parking lot would be part of the purchase, parking would not be a problem at this site. Leshtz asked about how the agencies' clientele overlapped. Approximately one-half of those with Youth Homes are involved with UAY and some of those Involved with Youth Homes are in MYEP. Kubby asked about the extent of renovation needed for the Johnson County Youth Services Foundation to locate in the Historical Society property. McCarty said that, based on Youth Homes search for a house, he could tell that the Historical Society property would need much less renovation than most properties which are on the market in Iowa City. Services would be placed on the first floor. Also, although the historical society property is currently zoned "Pub- lic," a request would be for rezoning to CB -2 which is the zoning for all the surrounding area and would be the zoning needed for the Johnson County Youth Services Foundation. Kubby asked if the agencies would be cramped in the new space. All directors said no. Kubby asked if the MYEP cur- rently had adequate space. McElroy said yes, except that it would be better to not store the programs tools in her garage. The basement of the Historical Society house has difficult access. McCarty said that properties in Iowa City range in price from $60,000 to $150,000. Houses costing close to $60,000, however, are insufficient in both size and condition for the needs of the foundation. Ruff asked how fast the foundation would outgrow the new space. No one could be sure, but all directors felt it would be adequate for a while. It was noted that the rent for the space that MYEP currently occupies doubles on July 1 and the maintenance agreement that UAY works with will also double soon. Leshtz asked about clients getting a run around with the creation of an additional level of bureaucracy. None of the directors felt that would be o, the case. They felt administrative efforts should be coordinated and actually take less time. Leshtz asked Milkman if any of the currently funded projects were under- funded. Milkman said no. Milkman asked the youth agency directors to think about where the additional money would come from if COBG funds could provide about ;70,000; she also asked them to think about how much annual income they could guarantee. Milkman reminded the Committee that only 73/ Committee on Community Needs April 21, 1987 Page 4 about $9,000 can be spent this year on the Benton Creek Drainage Project and that if CCN wanted to risk it, the additional money could be spent on something else this year. There is no guarantee, however, of any CDBG money next year. The three youth agencies serve about 500 people per year, including 200 people who use the Synthesis Studio. Swaim asked CCN for an indication of whether it was seriously considering funding the project. The Historical Society wanted to know if they should make a serious effort to get through the appropriate red tape or not. Swaim said he thought that if CCN pro- vided $70,000 then about $30,000 could be raised from public minded inves- tors. The remaining credit would come from existing lending institutions. Kubby asked how much could the foundation repay. Swaim thought $15,000 per year would be a reasonable figure. McElroy noted that getting a house would lay to rest for a while all talk of mergers. McCoy wondered if the consolidation was permanent. He won- dered what would happen to the property if one of the agencies dropped out. All the agency directors said that they each had been in business for many years. McCarty noted that the effort to create a foundation was serious. They were going through the trouble to write by-laws, articles of incorporation, etc. The consensus of the CCN was to pursue the idea of partially funding the purchase of a house for the Johnson County Youth Services Foundation. The agency directors were instructed to, find out more details. ACTION ON MONETARY REQUESTS The bids for the Old Capitol Mail Ramp handicapped accessible doors came in around $4,000, well below the $10,000 allocated to the project. Becker mnvpd to snpnd additional monev on handicaooed accessible doors for Goff entrances to the Cit Recreation Center ana tt tnere was sciii mon e on an ca a access; a oors or a vic Center. Ku -F---- secon e . The motion passecl unanimously. Milkman suggested that the CCN also consider an alternative to the youth agency center. For instance, CCN might wish to consider providing more money to Youth Homes for the acquisition of their house. Unfunded, high P' priority projects from November 1986 requests were: Creekside Storm Sewer Control $ 65,000 Homeless Study 2,000 Civic Center Elevator 100,000 Terrell Mill Handicapped Park 3,200 Floodway Property Acquisition (11 S. Johnson) 47,000 73/ Committee on Community Needs April 21, 1987 Page 5 Quarterly Reports Hous in Re air Pro ram for Elderl and Handica ed Person - Nugent re - I rehabilitation programst Aeconstruction�consultanttweFwill be alllhithe housiig 7 an agreement with Elderly Services Agency was signed. There are cur- rently 12 to 13 applicants for small projects. Coffelt Place - Rawland reported that Jack Govier is coordinating the repair wor The asbestos has been removed. The new furnace will be installed during warm weather, so the furnace can be off for the two-day installation. The linoleum is down in the kitchen. They are attempting to put the porch back in an historical setting. The bids have been lower than expected and there may be some money left over from this project. RalstonCreek Bank Stabilization - Rawland reported that Rockwell has prepar a necessary in orma ion for HUD; this project may come in under i budget. They are trying to get HUD to match wages - normally HUD only provides materials. The current push is to get the environmental review in. . Cooper moved to adjourn. Becker seconded. The meeting adjourned by accla- mation at 4:55 PM. Minutes submitted by Christine Mullen. • 73/ .Y' • MINUTES COMMITTE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS MAY 21, 1987 - 3:30 PM IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: Becker, Hulse, Kubby, Kuhn, Leshtz, McCoy, Patrick, Rawland, Ruff, Snider MEMBERS ABSENT: Cooper GUESTS PRESENT: Ken Kauppi (Crisis Center), Jim Swaim (UAY) STAFF PRESENT: Milkman, Mullen, Nugent, Penney RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL 1. CCN recommends that the City Council allocate $3,000 in 1987 COBG funds for disposition of two parcels in the Lower Ralston Creek Redevelopment area. 2. CCN recommends that the City Council allocate $70,000 in 1987 CDBG funds to the United Action for Youth (UAY) for the acquisition and rehabilita- tion of a structure to house a joint youth agency center. CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES Leshtz called the meeting to order at 3:30. Becker moved to approve the minutes of the April 21, 1987 meeting. Patrick seconded. Kubby noted that in the next to the last paragraph on the bottom of page 3, the fourth sen- tence should read, "...all directors felt it would be adequate indefinitely." Also, on page one, the next to last sentence under "public/member discussion" should read, "The staff involved, the Housing Comnission and CCN are not in...." The minutes were unanimously approved as corrected. PUBLIC/MEMBER DISCUSSION Kubby asked if the Council had acted on CCN's recommendation with regard to vouchers for single, non -elderly, non -handicapped persons. Milkman said Council had not acted yet. Kubby asked if Council had acted on CCN's two recommendations from the last meeting. Nugent said no, that the CCN recom- mendations would go to Council together with the 1987 COBG Budget amendment June 2. Nugent thanked the Committee for agreeing to change the meeting date. She reported that she was in Des Moines on Tuesday at a workshop about available housing rehabilitation funds. The housing program, Section 312, has been around for 10 to 15 years and 3% loans are available through the program. The City can probably get as much loan money as it can handle. It is a very staff -intensive program and there is no administrative support money available. The City will soon be advertising for applicants. Rawland reported on the status of the findings of the Committee on City Revenues. The Comnittee spent the first few meetings going over all the information with the City Manager in great detail. After carefully examining all the options, ten committee members favor an increase in property taxes and five committee members favor an increase in sales tax. The Committee 73/ Committee on Community Needs May 21, 1987 Page 2 agrees that the reason the City is facing financial troubles is that federal thinmoney worsehas ethanen eraisingctaxesut cis cutti geryarees nsiceittee slsoThe Cit ,that the only raising revenue are few. Some of the arguments in favor of increasingeprop- erty taxes were that 1) it is a very stable and predictable form of income, 2) because it hurts to a 0 government, 3) it may send a message back to Des �Moinesethat cities le will eneed more optionsives tax aising sales money tax4) 5property tax was thought to be a less paying rent, and 6) a local sales )taxi woudents uld encouragwouledieople ocontribute larby ger Purchases outside the County. Leshtz said the main argumentsin make favor of the sales tax were that it would have to appear on the ballot, it would tax Cstudents and out of towners, and it could potentially raise a lot of money ounty on themillio )basis of al ales tax would get redistributed throughout the Patrick asked about the Possibility of of a vehicle tax ion of various townsLeshtz saidttheCamount Of money that could be raised with a vehicle tax was not clear, though it was estimated to be significantly less thar, the projected $1 million deficit. Also, a vehicle tax would have to be on the ballot and the referendum would have to state the percent of property tax relief that the new tax would fund. Rawland said the Committee's strongest recommendation was that the City lobby in Des Moines for its needs. Rawland said the Committee would have gladly chosen an excise tax on liquor, but that was not an option. Kubby said she feels it is important for the state to do more long range planning. 91grIlCf Tnu Ar r.- ___ Milkman reviewed the changes in the CDBG budget since November V18,u1986. She said the used $3,000 listed for disposition was probably an overestimate. it touselle some properrtyealongaLower,Ralston Creeare bid k. If the so forth in order property is sold, the money will go to CD8G. Milkman said if all went well, it could be sold by August. The $7,500 allocated for the Napoleon Park Handicapped Accessible Trail was discussed at the April meeting. The City had initially requested that $15,102 of CD8G public service funds be used to pay part of the salary of a Human Services Coordinator. Milkman recommended that in order to keep down the administrative costs of the CDBG program Gene al Funow d.the The Therefore theServices staffChasdar angedeoorinator tofuned allocaterthehCCthe DBG public service funds to three agencies, $34,671 - Elderly Services Agency (ESA), $30,000 - Mayor's Youth Employment Program (MYEP), and $28,479 - United Action for Youth (LAY). UAY will then be the only public service agency with two City contracts, one directly with the City, and one with CDBG. This does not change the total amount of funding of these agencies by the City, it merely divides the administrative work in an efficient manner. Milkman ted error on availableofunds" should have been listed987 as aemo separate Pine item ndtnotaa subdivision of public services. J/ Committee on Community Needs May 21, 1987 Page 3 The final change Milkman noted was the reduction of the contingency fund to 4%. She said this was low, but justified it by noting that the project most likely to go over budget is the Benton Creek Drainage project and it will not begin until 1988 and that the 1987 Program Year is nearly half over already. Joint Youth Services Center - Jim Swaim presented a formal request for a grant of ;75,000 to assist UAY, MYEP, and Youth Homes in the purchase of a house. He reported what had happened since the last CCN meeting. The State Historical Society has accepted a $140,000 offer from the youth agencies to Purchase both the east and the west half of Lot 6. The possibilities for obtaining a loan look very good, but that cannot proceed without a signed agreement. The building would allow the administrative functions of the annually in the proposed afacility. Ifmthe project of is approved le would Swaim esaidvhe will proceed and get drawings. He said he had already met with people at the City regarding zoning and tax assessment and had found no major problems. A house will need two handicapped accessible bathrooms on the first floor. The City would probably waive the need for a second bathroom, if one is accessi- ble. All the wiring in the house will need to be conduit, and at this time Swaim said he did not know how much of the wiring was already in conduit. He thought the cost for the conduit could run from $4,000 to $15,000. The house currently has central air conditioning and steam heat. In response to a question about space, Swaim said UAY currently has 585 square feet and MYEP has 250 square feet plus a closet. In the new facility, they will have 1,825 square feet without any renovation. UAY and MYEP plan to move in immediately. After some renovation, Youth Homes will also move in. Youth Homes is not currently facing a drastic increase in rent ad can afford to remain in their current location for a while. Swaim said the nhouse is exe roram. Swaim said the Jont tremely ServicesuCenter would econsidere needsothehaestheti s of the neighborhoodiin the proposed addition and in the maintenance of the building. One of the oldest Ginko trees in Iowa is located in the back yard. The State Historical Society succeeded in including the sale of the property as a line item in their budget before the legislative session ended. Swaim noted that this property was slated for acquisition by the University of Iowa in its long-term plan, and that they might be disappointed to not be getting it at this time. Swaim said the Historical Society was excited about selling the property to the youth agencies because of the use they would be putting the house to. o. Patrick said she thought to see the youth agencie s fortunate that two of the namely adequate parking case. it was a wonderful opportunity and would be pleased in the house. Kubby said she thought it was very most difficult obstacles to projects such as this, and proper zoning, would not be problems in this Swaim said the addition could be built go into the parking lot as he had once house is mostly unusable because of the ate place to store MYEP tools. behind the house and would not need to thought. Though the basement of the low ceiling, it would be an appropri- 73/ Committee on Community Needs May 21, 1987 Page 4 Rawland asked how they would feel about a loan. Swaim said that the agencies would have to borrow a considerable amount of money even if CCN gave them a grant. Those loans would be commercial loans at 10-114%. He thought it would be difficult to borrow the full amount. Kubby asked if they could afford to pay back their loans. Swaim said yes. He noted that $70,000 could leverage a loan of $140,000. Leshtz asked what the total cost would be. Swaim said that a high estimate for everything, including purchase price, some renovation, and the addition would be $225,000. Hulse asked if the addition would blend in with the house. Swaim said yes, that the agencies were very sensitive to the historic nature of the house. Milkman said the area would need to be rezoned as it is currently zoned "Public." All the surrounding area is zoned with the appropriate zoning (C82), so zoning is not expected to be a problem. It does require three readings at City Council meetings and the timing could delay the closing. Swaim said they had tentatively set the closing date for July 15. Nugent asked what would happen if the closing were delayed. Swaim said it would depend on the reason for the delay. He thought that if the funding was not secure, they might lose the house. On the other hand, he thought if the only hold up was the rezoning, then that would probably not be a problem. Kuhn asked how many children were served last year. Swaim said UAY served about 450 and MYEP served about 200 and that there was some overlap. In addition, he said 135 parents were served last year and that this was ex- pected to rise to 200 this year. Ruff asked how long it would be before they would outgrow this new space. Swaim said he did not believe they would. He noted that the addition is one story with the option of adding a second story later. Crisis Center - Ken Kauppi distributed revised plans for the renovation of the Cris s Center property at 322 E. First Street. He said the bids for the renovation came in much higher than they had expected. By working with the arc$57h58tect 1contractor ooh the costs to 6,sti 1 about $7,500overusucceeded In addition, he said they would owe the architect approximately $3,000 and the parking lot was not budgeted for yet. Kauppi described the revised plan. He said they cut as much as they could while still allowing themselves to move in. The revised plan does Include the addition, as they felt the additional floor space was needed. He said soundproof walls to ensure client confidentiality cost no more than regular walls and would be used throughout the structure where new walls were to be 'installed. The two existing non -handicapped accessible restrooms are to remain and a third new handicapped accessible restroom is included in the .o• new plans. The exterior and interior work were listed on the revised plan, dated May 15, 1987. Kauppi said that a Committee of the Crisis Center Board members had been set up whose sole purpose was to raise funds. He said that he would soon be meeting with the contractor again to see if anymore cost saving ideas hac been found. He said there was a chance that some money could be saved on the footings, depending on the soil. In response to a question about space, Kauppi said they have 2,000 square feet at Old Brick and will have 2,800 square feet in the new space with the additions. He said the new space was much more efficiently designed than the old. 731 .o• Committee on Community Needs May 21, 1987 Page 5 The projected starting date for construction is Jul September 1 move in date. Kubby asked about the cost of the Kauppi said that asphalt, y 1, with a projected and that concrete, projetteProject parking lot. d 15 to 20 Years 8 years, ld woust ld cost $7,000 Kauppi said that the Crisis Center needed the audit fee, pay the architect and complete ro.cover the Phone system, a high project. He said ith lot, Period of three yeas aPriorityt a cost fi h the staff, would be the new, per month. Purchased over a Ruff asked about the restrooms. Kauppi clarified included an accessible restroom and an accessible door. Leshtz asked Kau ppi what the Crisis Center would d° if the that the plans always said that they would try to obtain ay did not get extra money from CCN• ld increase operating expenses b loan, but paying off theHe Center was one of the last large5pr per month, loan would the Committee took a break at 4;45 M projects to be fundednwithoutsaid hat loan- risis ACTION OF FUNDING REQUESTS The meeting reconvened at 4:58 PM. City Council that ;3Kubby moved that ,000 be used for the disposition the Lower Ralston Creek Redevelopment passed unanimously, area, Ruff the CCN recommend to the costs of two parcels in seconded. The motion Kubby said it was her understanding that no public service discriminated against in their future funding requests to division of public service funds to minimize ad agencies would be ministrative costs.due to the In looking at the list of non -funded projects, Kubby noted that at funding recommendations were made last October, UAY requested ;95,000 for e Youth center for just their agency the time Project, Kubby expressed concern for the Cre kh Side residentshes rwith sewage in their basements. An estimated 10-20% of the residents w y non -funded trol valves under the non -funded Creek Side Pro were to receive con - Penn e ject, in ey Laid that taojects to help the homeless were under consideration People who were willing nothing was decided. Kubby said she had the names of two he would like to see theostud unteer time for the homeless stud y pursued at some time. Y• Ruff said tasked that CCNshould.revieww and conere siderer projects that were not funded initially Kubby said she felt it would be appropriate to limit the discussion to the Crisis Center and the Youth Center, as she felt they were the two highest Priority projects. Snider said she was concerned about the Civic Center elevator. Ruff noted that because of the programs in Iowa City for the handicapped, more and more handicapped persons are moving to Iowa City every year. It was noted that the Crisis Center could operate without the requested $20,000. Kubby said she felt the Youth Agency Center was an excel- lent opportunity right now. 73/ Committee on Community Needs May 21, 1987 Page 6 Kubby moved that the CCN recommend to the City Council that $70,000 of 1987 C08G funds be granted to the Joint Youth Agency Center, Ruff seconded. Kubby said that ,later in the year there might be some contingency money available for the Crisis Center or there might be some money available from the sale of the Lower Ralston Creek properties. The motion passed unanimously. Kubby requested that the CCN informally agree that the Crisis Center was the next highest priority, above the Creek Side Sewage Control Request, No one objected. The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 pM. i Minutes submitted by Christine Mullen. I i 751 i I i I i' i 751 MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION MAY 12, 1987 IOWA CITY PUBLIC.. LIBRARY - ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: Watts, Dawson, Streb, Hulse, Moore, Stadtlander, Parden MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Boothroy, Stroud RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: Recommend adoption of a new Payment Standard for use with all new or renewed Vouchers effective July 1, 1987, as follows: Eff. - $305.00, 1 -bedroom -$371.00, 2 -bedroom - $436.00, 3 -bedroom - $546.00, 4 -bedroom - $611.00. MEETING There being a quorum present, the meeting at 9:15 a.m. was called to order by Chairperson Watts ELECTION OF OFFICERS: j i i Watts was nominated to continue as Chairperson and Streb was nominated as Vice - Chairperson. Unanimous vote carried, 7-0. MINUTES: I i Motion t, approve minutes of April 14, 1987, meeting was made by Moore, seconded by Hulse, carried 7-0. RECOMMEND ADOPTION OF HOUSING PAYMENT STANDARD: - Seydel Memo j Motion was made by Parden to recommend to Council adoption of a new Payment Stan- dard for use with all new or renewed Vouchers effective July 1, 1987, as follows: Efficiency - $305.00, 1 -bedroom -$371.00, 2 -bedroom - $436.00, 3 -bedroom - $546.00, 4 -bedroom - $611.00. Motion seconded by Dawson, carried 7-0. COORDINATOR'S REPORT: - Stroud for Seydel Section8 U date - May Housing Assistance Payments: 4 er ca es - $98,396.25 and 15 Vouchers - $3,355.00. Puyblic Housin Aril rents - $10,574.00. There will be one turnover at the end of i a, 198 . Four (4) applications were submitted for approval. ADJOURNMENT: Motion was made to adjourn by Moore, seconded by Streb, carried 7-0. .o• Next meeting: June 9, 1987. APPROVED: Gary Watts, Chairperson 730& 1/9 g) Citizens' COmmittee on City Revenues May 13, 1987 Citizens' Committee on City Revenues: May 13, 1987, at 7:00 p.m. in the Iowa City Senior Center Classroom. Chairperson Craig Willis presiding. Committee .Members Present: Peter Fisher, Richard Stevenson, Mary Ann To m, raig is, rnie Lehman, Clayton Ringgenberg, Jessie Singerman, Ann Rawland, David Leshtz, David Hughes, Ann Bovbjerg, Katherine Kurth, Jean Snow. Committee Members Absent: Tom Goedkin. Ex -Officio Members Presn: Johnson County Board of Supervisors - Bob Burns; ora vi e - J WW" ausett. Ex -Officio Members Absent: North Liberty, University Heights, Hills. Staff Present: Atkins, Vitosh, Helling, Smith. I Tape-recording: Reel CCCR-6, Side I, 1 -End, Side 2, 1 -End; CCCR-7, Side CALL TO ORDER: Willis called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The minutes of the April 1987 22, 1987, meeting were approved as read. Atkins distributed his May 11, commipregarding policy information options. Willis aredwas based onpthenassumptions that $1 million of additional revenue is needed and the City's basic service ipackage should be preserved. Willis stated three members of the subcom- mittee, Ann Bovbjerg, Peter Fisher and Richard Stevenson were selected to present information to the CCCR regarding sales tax, property tax and vehicle tax, respectively. Willis suggested that once information has been presented, the CCCR should develop a recommended single option for City Council. In response to questions, Willis said that if the Committee j chose to not cut the service package and to not make a recommendation to City Council, property taxes would need to be increased. Willis said a recammendation should be passed on to City Council if a majority of the Committee members agree with that recommendation. SALES TAX: Bovbjerg presented the pros and cons of a local option sales tax. Bovbjerg listed the advantages of the sales tax as follows: Generates revenue. Both visitors and residents pay the sales tax. P Flexible, tied to the economy. Tied to ability to pay. Small and incremental. Not on vital necessities. Shared with County. Tied to the quality of life. Low administrative costs to collect tax. O 733 .o. t MINUTES CITIZENS' COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 13, 1987 PAGE 2 Bovbjerg also listed disadvantages of the local option sales tax includ- ing: Whether enough revenue can be raised. Serves as an extra charge on residents. Changes how and where people spend their money. Decreases with a downturn in the economy. Shares the revenue with the County. Serves as a somewhat regressive tax. Bovbjerg stated that a 1/2 percent sales tax increase would yield about 1 million annually for Iowa City, the minimum desired revenue sought by the subcommittee. The 1/2 percent local option sales tax would not guarantee that decrease, but it proerty taxes levelsWouBovbjerg stated property ekeep property taxes beconsidt ered holding property taxes at current levels as well as actually lowering property taxes. Bovbjerg stated that the ballot wording would include a statement about how the local option taxes would be used. Ringgenberg said that two other considerations for voters are that the Iowa Legislature is considering raising sales tax and that a local option tax affects the i entire county and not just the city. Bovbjerg suggested that all munici- palities in the county might consider voting on a uniform local option tax at the same time. Bovbjerg suggested a one percent rate that would be cut back after three years. Lehman stated that a cutback would be uncertain at bet. endumscouldnbeeusedse to to moveeSthetkins local said optionpetition oncefor it is passed repeal refer passedby ballot. Bovbjerg explained that any money raised with a local option sales tax would be shared with the County. Vitosh explained that all contiguous metropolitan areas must vote on the sales tax at the same time. One down. If the County does not pypass the aloption ss the tax alesotax, svote t it wouldreceive no share of the revenues. PROPERTY TAX: Fisher explained the pros and cons of a property tax as outlined in his hand-out, Property Tax: Advantages and Disadvantages. Braverman stated that cities need to be prepared to offer tax incentives to attract indus- try. In response to Willis, Fisher said property tax is more burdensome than a sales tax at higher income levels. In response to a question, Vitosh explained that taxes Iowa City will receive in FY88 were based on January propertyltax9h s, been themosthateds. itax. Singerman said anoted that nation-wide tax benefit of the property tax is that you do get some it back. VEHICLE TAX: es of the vehicle tax, Stevesonmarized taxhases and progressiveelementsv ts because people with higher income often have more vehicles. Vehicle tax would be used primarily for roads so there is a link between the tax and its use. In response to a question, Atkins explained that the tax would be levied an 733 MINUTES CITIZENS' COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 13, 1987 PAGE 3 cars registered in Johnson County and that cars may be registered in any county in Iowa regardless of residence of the owner. Stevenson noted that studentowns. Stevensonoften would saidavoid that it thetax notbentirely registering knowwn cars in their how responsive home stable a vehicle tax would be as a revenue source, but it probably would not be very responsive to changes in the economy. Stevenson added that a vehicle tax once established would probably not be changed to increase revenue. Stevenson recommended that because a revenue shortfall is two to three years away, the vehicle tax should be phased in over a three year period starting at $5 and then increase to $10 when needed. probably be simplest to pass the It would 510 fee on the ballot and then only collect f5 initially. A f5 tax would produce an estimated $200,000 for Iowa City and a $10 tax would yield about $400,000. Atkins said exact figures are difficult to predict. A vehicle tax would be subject to a County -wide vote implemented County -wide. Stevenson said that he didn't know if auto insurance rates encourage people to register their cars in Iowa City. Stevenson said money raised from the vehicle tax could be used for the transit system to free -up other money in the general fund. In response to Hughes, Stevenson said that only cars, trucks and motorcycles with licenses would be taxed, not farm machinery. A question was raised about motor homes. Atkins said there are 70,000 vehicles registered in the County. Atkins said the law states that a local option tax must give property tax relief and asked how a $10 vehicle tax would give that prop- erty tax relief. Fisher asked how much property taxes paying for Iowa City streets versus road use tax funds. Vitosh said Road Use Tax funds are paying for 70 percent of street maintenance. HOTEL/MOTEL TAR: Willis stated a two percent increase in hotel/motel tax would raise an additional $84,000 annually. Vitosh noted revenue from the hotel/motel tax increased during the last quarter. In response to Braverman, Vitosh said the University of Iowa's hotel is exempt from paying the hotel/motel tax. Vitosh said statutorally, the City has to spend 50 percent of the hotel/motel tax revenues on recreation, convention and tourism. Atkins will beppaidofrom th totax. Cgoitteefinembersndiscusssedntheohotel/motel tax. FEES AND CHARGES: Ringgenberg stated that surveys were done of cities in Iowa and it was found that cities have increased user charges to increase their revenues. Ringgenberg distributed a hand-out, "Revenues from Charges in Enterprise Funds, City of Iowa City." Ringgenberg stated he reviewed the revenues and expenditures of each enterprise fund in Iowa City and noted there is a significant amount of revenue raised through charges. Ringgenberg con- cluded that additional fees and charges would not help the City finan- annually,RinRinggenbergtstated Cadvantages receiveand8disadvantagesoto to $10 millin iof ehs rand charges are that people using a service pay for it, a service can pay for itself, it's a hidden tax, it's earmarked, and charges help the General 733 MINUTES CITIZENS, COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 13, 1987 PAGE 4 Fund. In response to a question, Vitosh said fees and charges are cur- rently fairly realistic and current Council is receptive to reviewing those fees. Vitosh said the bus system and airport are subsidized by property tax. Braverman questioned the rationale for subsidizing the airport. Braverman said if people feel an airport is needed, it should be self—supporting. Committee members discussed use of the local airport. Atkins said efforts are being made at the airport to generate additional revenue. Fisher suggested recommending that a landing fee be charged at the airport. In response to a question, Atkins said the City subsidized the airport by $100,000 per year. Willis suggested that the next meeting begin with each member articulating what they think and then, with group discussion, resolve a particular recommendation to Council. In response to Rawland, Atkins stated the law provides that a portion of a local option tax must be used for property tax relief. Atkins said he will obtain additional information from Legal staff and prepare a memorandum for Committee members. The next CCCR meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, 1987, at 7:00 P.M. in the Johnson County/Iowa City Senior Center Classroom. 733 e f tR PROPERTY TAX; ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES 5,117/ I Fairness--Proaressivity or rearessivity. Difficult to estimate precisely, but most analysts conclude that it is regressive among lower to middle income households (taking a larger proportion of income the lower one's income) but may become progressive at higher income levels. 2. Fairness --Benefits Received - Some city services are related to property value (police, fire) others are not (recreation), - Owners of tax exempt property, non-resident commuters and sho?pers, and visitors benefit from some city services but don t pay property taxes directly. - Similarly, the approximately 7,300 University students living in dorms and family housing (about 258 of all students) do not pay property taxes directly. 3. Fairness --Do Renters and Shoppers Pay Taxes Indirectl ? Owners of commercial property (including rental housing) probably shift some or all of the property tax onto renters and customers by charging higher prices or rent to cover their tax bills. The extent to which this occurs, however, is impossible to measure. 4. Fairness --Relation to Personal Circumstances and Cash Flow. The property tax, unlike the income tax, does not make adjustments for personal circumstances such as family size or other things that affect real ability to pay. - Property Tax does not take into account the current income or cash flow of a household, and it is current income that must be used to pay the taxes. - In Iowa, only the elderly and disabled are somewhat protected from these problems through a "circuit -breaker" property tax relief program that assures that low income elderly and disabled individuals do not pay exceessive o, amounts of property tax relative to current income. 5. Net Burden on Iowa City Residents The property tax is fully deductible on state and Federal income tax returns. For someone in the 283 Federal tax 1 7'33 bracket and, say, the 108 state bracket, a $100 increase really costs only about $68. (This benefits renter; as well, since landlords deduct property taxes and thus have less to pass on.) - Property taxes on industrial and utility property (about 128 of the tax base) are probably largely paid by owners and customers residing outside Iowa city. 6. Effects on Investment. Property tax rates may or may not have an effect on decisions regarding investment in property improvements or on location decisions of businesses. Conclusive evidence on this point is difficult, if not impossible, to obtain. totalNote: Current property Coralville, 7.38loweri nNorth xLibertyrate s,foruexample; for an investor considering the location of a new building, those I rate differences would translate into a savings of less than 28 of building costs over the life of the building. Is that enough to change the ideal location given all the other considerations involved? 7. ,Responsiveness and Stability. - Less responsive to changes in the economy than sales tax. - More stable and predictable. - In periods of inflation, city costs likely to rise more rapidly than the tax base; in periods of recession, tax base may continue to increase for a while while costs are relatively stable. 8. Revenue Adecuacv. - Currently about $2.2 million in "slack" remaining in the property tax (i.e., additional revenues obtainable by raising general fund and transit levies to maximum and shifting all employee benefits out of general fund; emergency levy and library levy could each add about $288,000 more). - Almost half of the $2.2 million cushion would be used up in fiscal year 1988-89 to meet shortfall. P' - Whether city would continue to have a cushion in excess of $1 million in future years depends on the fate of state and federal aid programs and continued growth in the property tax base keeping pace with inflation in city costs. 2 7053 .o• C• /fin9pen"117 /5113107 Revenues From Charges in Enterprise Funds City of Iowa City Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Actual -1986 Estimnte-1987 Budgeted -1988 Parking Operations 1,622,000 1,798,000 1,847,000 Pollution Control Operations 1,624,000 2,775,000 4,347,000 Water Operations 1,763,000 2,070,000 2,260,000 Refuse Collection Operations 568,000 584,000 611,000 Landfill Operations 663,000 663,000 685,000 Airport Operations 75,000 92,000 95,000 Bus Operations 829,000 768,000 753,000 TOTAL 7,144,000 8,750,000 10,598,000 733 0(,7) .o• Citizens' Committee on City Revenues May 20, 1987 Citizens' Committee on Cit Revenues: May 20, 1987, at 7:00 p.m, in the Iowa City Sen or Center -Classroom.-- Chairperson Craig Willis presiding. Committee Members Present: Peter Fisher, Richard Stevenson, Mary Ann Vo m, Craig Wi s, Ern a Lehman, Clayton Ringgenbero, Jessie Singerman, Ann Rawland, David Leshtz, David Hughes, Tom Goedkin, Mace Braverman. Committee Members Absent: Ann Bovbjerg, Katherine Kurth, Jean Snow. Ex -Officio Members Present: Mary Kay Yordi, North Liberty. Ex -Officio Members Absent: Johnson County Board of Supervisors, Coral - vi e, n vers ty Heights, Hills. City Council Present: Darrell Courtney. Staff Present: Atkins, Vitosh, Smith. Tape-recording Reel CCCR-7, Side 1, 286 -End, Side 2, 1 -End; Reel CCCR-8, e I , CALL TO ORDER: Willis called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. The minutes of the April 29, 1987, meeting were approved as read. Atkins distributed the agenda, minutes of the May 13, 1987, meeting, and outlines previously prepared by Peter Fisher and Clayton Ringgenberg. Willis asked each CCCR member to address: 1) whether the basic service package as it currently exists in Iowa City should be preserved; 2) which revenue alternative should be implemented; and 3) if any change in the existing level of the hotel/motel tax should be implemented. DAVID LESHTZ: Favors preserving City services, increase in property tax, increase hotel/motel tax. Leshtz stated he based his choice of revenue alternatives on two assumptions, the Council wanting to hear what is best for the community as a whole and that City services should be preserved. Leshtz stated he favors an increase in property taxes to the maximum levy for one or two years - then return to the no more than six percent in- crease'policy. (Alternative A2, (Ringgenberg notes - Atkins memo 5/11/87) memo regarding tax options.) Leshtz stated an increase in property taxes would be most equitable and efficient; does not affect how people act; remains under the control of the City; does not require a ballot referen- dum; can be lowered or raised each year; encourages better government; is stable and very predictable; creates no additional administrative costs, and is a benefit tax - everyone who pays into property tax gets something in return. Leshtz the public can be convinced of the need for an increase in property tax. Leshtz said disadvantages of a sales tax are that a sales tax takes as much as four times the percentage of a poor family's income than a very wealthy family's income and lower income persons cannot 733 CITIZENS' COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 20, 1987 PAGE 2 itemize or write off a sales tax. Leshtz said the property tax increase should be sold to the public as a service preservation measure, Leshtz stated he also favors an increase in the hotel/motel tax. ERNIE LEHMAN: Favors preserving City service package, increasing property taxes, increasing hotel/motel tax. Lehman said he wants services pre- served but would not unequivocably support all services the City is cur- rently providing. Lehman stated he would not support a sales tax because it would hinder shopping in the community and would remove pressure from City staff and City Council. Lehman said he favors increasing property tax to maintain services deemed necessary by the City Council, a sales tax should be State-wide, and he favors an increase in the hotel/motel tax. PETER FISHER: Favors preserving City service package, increasing property taxes, vehicle tax under ten dollars, and increasing hotel/motel tax. Fisher said current level of services should be maintained and some budget cuts, such as in human services, should be restored. Fisher stated a disadvantage of the sales tax is the distribution formula. Fisher stated he favors a one-year increase of eight to nine percent in property taxes, a vehicle tax under ten dollars, increasing the hotel/motel tax, increas- ing contracts for services and getting more revenue from the airport, RICHARD STEVENSON: Favors preserving City service k property taxes, increasing hotel/motel tax. Stevensonsaid he reasing maintaining the service package, but the City should continue to look for ways to be more efficient and to combine services. Stevenson said the sales tax should be done a State-wide basis and distributed back to the local community. Stevenson said if the vehicle tax were used, it should btheir e kept low enough so people would not go to other counties to register cause ithisltax deductible, itis relativees. Stevenson sad he s ton incomenlevels, andtaxesleadsbto efficiency in government. Stevenson said he favors Alternative 82 -in- crease in property tax to maximum levy for one or two years, then return to six percent policy. Stevenson said he favors an increase in the ho- tel/motel tax. Stevenson explained property taxes should be increased because the State has not offered communities a reasonable menu of local options to raise revenues. Stevenson said the following long-range op- tions should be considered; 1) wage/occupation tax; 2) excise tax on various items; 3) income tax surcharge; and 4) State-wide sales tax, MARY ANN VOLM: Favors one percent sales tax, increasing hotel/motel tax. Volm explained she favors a one percent sales tax. property tax would have a major Volm said increase of impact on poor people and persons living on fixed incomes. Volm said she would support increasing the hotel/motel tax, DAVID HUGHES: Favors preserving City service package, increasing property taxes, increasing hotel/motel tax. Hughes said City services should be maintained, he does not support a sales tax, supports an increase in hotel/motel tax, and would support a vehicle tax if that tax were kept low. Hughes said the potential revenue from the airport should be stud- ied, such as landing fees and fuel tax. Hughes stated he supports a 703 CITIZENS' COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 20, 1987 PAGE 3 property tax increase. Hughes noted that if the City would have approved an Iowa -Illinois Gas & Electric Company franchise fee, the City would not be in its current budget situation. ANN RAWLAND: Favors preserving basic City service package, increasing property taxes, hotel/motel tax. Rawland stated she favors Alternative N2 increasing property taxes for one or two years then return to six per- cent or seven percent increase. Rawland said long -tens goals should be considered. Rawland said she would favor a vehicle tax if the State would require persons to register their vehicle in the County in which they live. Rawland said the basic service package should be preserved and the hotel/motel tax increased. TOM GOEOKIN: Favors property tax increase. Goedkin stated the basic service package needs to be reviewed annually and people should be in- formed about the services available in the community. Goedkin said he would support a property tax increase. Goedkin explained that if citizens want to accept and use the services, they should be willing to pay for them. Goedkin stated he favors Alternative 82 - increasing property taxes for one or two years, but does not favor the hotel/motel tax. CLAYTON RINGGENBERG: Favors increasing property tax, vehicle tax, in- creasing hotel/motel tax. Ringgenberg said he would approve putting anything on the ballot because people should have a choice in how to pay for City services. Ringgenberg said people should realize the City is in its present financial dilemma because of the loss of Federal revenue sharing, problems with financing the bus system, sewer problems, and paying more for servicing of debt. Ringgenberg said he favors an increase of property taxes, a hefty vehicle tax, and increasing hotel/motel tax. Ringgenberg noted people are concerned about the level of government spending. JESSIE SINGERMAN: Favors preserving basic service package, increasing property taxes, vehicle tax, increasing hotel/motel tax. Singerman said the City needs to continue to look at ways to economize and reduce dupli- cation of governmental services. Singerman stated she favors Alternative A2 - increasing property taxes for one or two years. Singerman said lobbying at the State level is needed to improve the type of local option taxes available to the communities. Singerman said property taxes can be deducted on Federal income taxes and there are no additional administra- tive costs to increasing property taxes. Singerman said she favors the increase in hotel/motel tax and would oppose a ten dollar vehicle tax. MACE o tax. BBraverrman statedsheniseased upetpwithttheaStatehandltax, vehicle that have disassociated themselves from the problems of local gov- ernments. Braverman said that there needs to be a long-term re-examination of the philosophy of what City governments should do and what responsibilities should the State have to local communities. Braverman stated he favors Alternative N� - increasing property taxes by sufficient millage each year to balance the budget, until maximum levy and emergency levies are used. Braverman said property taxes should be used to pay for the City's needs. Braverman said pressure needs to be put on 733 CITIZENS' COMMITTEE ON CITY REVENUES MAY 20, 1987 PAGE 4 the State. Braverman said certain services, such as the airport, needs to become more self-supporting; stated he favored the hotel/motel tax in- crease; and suggested the City make an appeal for innovative gift giving to build up a budget reserve. Braverman said he would support a motor vehicle tax. CRAIG WILLIS: Favors preserving basic service package, one percent sales tax. Willis stated he favors preserving the basic service package and a local option sales tax. Willis raised concerns about a sales tax, but said a sales tax is a way to present the service package in a public referendum. KATHERINE KURTH (not present, statement read by Willis): Favors one percent sales tax, vehicle tax, hotel/motel tax. Kurth's letter stated she favors a one percent sales tax, and that a one percent sales tax would not change the current shopping habits of local residents. Kurth said she would favor a vehicle tax if necessary and that she does not oppose the increase in hotel/motel tax. JEAN SNOW (not present, statement read by Willis): Favors one percent sales tax. Snow's statement noted she favors a one percent sales tax and recommended the "Ames Plan" - 60% for property tax abatement, 40% for community embetterment including human services. ANN BOVBJERG (not present, statement read by Willis): Favors one-half percent sales tax. Bovbjerg's letter.stated that if the Iowa City Council does not reduce City services, if Council does not raise property taxes, and if Council wants to expand services of revenue into one local tax area, then the Council should authorize a City sales tax at one-half percent. Willis noted his appreciation to all CCCR members for taking positions on the revenue options. Willis suggested CCCR members divide into groups, member favoring sales tax and Committee members favoring the property tax, to determine written form of their positions. Atkins reminded Committee members that a portion of the vehicle tax has to be pledged to property tax relief. Atkins read the local option tax law as follows: "The ballot proposition shall specify the type and rate of tax and in the case of the vehicle tax, the classes which will be exempt and in the case of the sales tax and sales and service, the date to be imposed. The ballot proposition shall also specify the approximate amount of the local option tax revenues that will be used for property tax relief." CCCR members divided into sales tax and property tax discussion groups to work on written resolutions. The next CCCR meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 1987, at 7:00 p.m. in the Senior Center Classroom. The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. 733