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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986-06-02 Info Packet of 5/30-1� City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM DATE: May 30, 1986 TO: City Council FROM: Acting City Manager RE: Material in Friday's Packet Memorandum from the Acting City Manager regarding informal meeting scnedule. WJV WAV Memorandum from the JCCOG Director regarding Human Services Coordinator. Memoranda from the Department of Planning and Program Development: a. 1990 Census Tract and Block Group Boundaries Z6 e b. Mandatory Open Space Dedication - Status O Minutes of May 28, 1986, staff meeting. 92 / JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee Final Report. City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: May 30, 1986 To: City Council From: Acting City Manager Re: Informal Meeting Schedule Due to the very tight scheduling of interviews and deliberation by Council regarding selection of a City Manager, it appears there may not be ade- meeting time on June Council 1986. hold thatthatinformal meeting sesswoulion drhaveior toincluded regular only discussion of zoning matters and Council time, such discussion can take place during your formal meeting. In order that staff may be able to respond adequately to any questions you may have regarding zoning matters on your agenda, please review these and contact me Monday if you have questions or require additional information on any of the items. I will communicate these to Planning staff so that we may be prepared to respond appropriately when you consider these mat- ters. Please note also that a very brief discussion of the status of the Human Services Coordinator position has been scheduled for Monday evening at 6:50 p.m. Council's representatives on the review committee will give you an update at that time. bdw5/3 cc: Don Schmeiser 7/0 r Johnson County Council of Governments 410 E MOrigtai St kvw City, Vanni 52240 r� 00 / Date: May 30, 1966 To: City C From: Don Sc JCCOG Director Re: Human Services Coordinator The special committee which was formed to review the duties and responsi- bilities for the Human Services Coordinator met on May 23. The meeting was well attended and there was considerable discussion of the Human Services Coordinator's position. A list of the programs, projects and activities with which the past Human Services Coordinator was involved is attached for your information. Councillors John McDonald and Kate Dickson, representatives on the special committee, intend to discuss with the rest of the Council the delibera- tions of the committee at your meeting to be held next Monday. If you have any questions in regard to this subject matter prior to next Monday's meeting, please do not hesitate to contact me at 356-5232. bdw5/2 Attachment 9/f I RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE JCCOG HUMAII SERVICES Coo ROTNATOR Budoet Process - Averaae of 11 hours per week Prepare budget forms Prepare program information forms Prepare budget instructions Train agencies in completion of forms Answer agency questions regarding forms and budget -process Check agency forms submitted for mathematical accuracy and appropriateness Meet with budget preparers regarding necessary changes (last year 31 of 32 agencies) Check revised budgets for mathematical accuracy and appropriateness Meet with budget preparers regarding additiqnal necessary changes (last year 12 agencies) Schedule hearings Gather and formulate information for charts and statistics Prepare budget book: Agency budgets Charts and statistics Supporting documentation Train funders in interpreting the budget forms Prepare for budget hearings Attend budget hearings Work with agencies to gather additional information requested at the hearings Prepare reports and recommendations to the City and County regarding agency funding levels Organize and attend a meeting of delegates from County, City, and United Way to consider staff recommendations Revise original recommendations to become City/County delegate recommenda- tions Present recommendations to the Iowa City City Council and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors Other City Budget Process Functions - Average of 3 hours per week Prepare a contract for each funded agency Prepare forms for agency quarterly reports required by City contracts Receive, read and maintain files of agency quarterly reports and board min- utes Countv and City Boards and Commissions - Averaae of 3 hours per week Committee on Community Needs Board of Social Welfare Mental Health/Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities Committee Special Projects - Averaae of 6 hours per week Rural Crisis Committee Summer Feeding Program for Children: Prepare arant proposal Supervise program Liaison ,with fecerai funding agency 91f 2 Free Bus Ticket Program Committee on sharing of information among agencies dc's (Community Coordinated Child Care) funding problems Nanoicare funding problems Human Services Index - Average of 5 hours per week Supervise Student Projects - Average of 8 hours per week Consult with Agencies on Plans Programs and Projects - Average of 4 hours per weeK Administration - Average of 2 hours per week Projects in Need of Work: Update salary study Combine youth -serving agencies TOTAL - Average of 42 hours per week City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: May 30, 1986 I To: City Cou 1 embers From: Don ser, Director, Department of Planning & Program Development Re: 1990 Census Tract and Block Group Boundaries The United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, has begun planning for the 1990 Census of Population and Housing. An integral part of this preparatory effort includes giving data users at the local level the opportunity to participate in the evaluation of local census tract and block group boundaries. This participation is designed to ensure that 1990 census products will benefit from local knowledge and that census tabulations will be useful to a broad range of data users. To this end, a seven -member committee was formed to assist the Census Bureau in defining and evaluating existing geographical statistical areas (census tracts and block groups) for Johnson County, Iowa. The members of this "Census Statistical Areas Committee" represent several political and adminis- trative units and agencies who regularly use the census material as sources of information. The Committee has recommended that alterations be made to four Iowa City geographical statistical areas to improve the usefulness of information available for those areas. The Iowa City central business district (CBD) is located in census tracts 10 and 16 and is identified as Zone CB -10 on Map 1 of Attachment A. Univer- sity -related uses are prevalent in tract 10 and residential uses are predomi- nant in tract 16. A CBD generally is an area of very high land valuation characterized by a high concentration of retail businesses, service estab- lishments, offices, hotels, and theaters; it is an area of high traffic volume and generally is non-residential in nature. It is often regarded useful by census data users to isolate information on a community's retail trade center from information gathered on other uses in a city. Not only is it helpful to separate the CBD, but the surrounding tracts tend to become "purer" as a result of eliminating information which may have been inconsis- tent with the uses prevalent in the surrounding tracts. The Committee has suggested that the boundaries of the CBD tract conform to those shown on Map 2 of Attachment A. Although the boundaries of the area identified as CB -10 (Central Business Zone) in the City's Zoning Ordinance do not extend south of Burlington Street, the Committee regards the three block area bounded by Burlington, Gilbert, Court, and Clinton Streets as consistent with CBD uses and, therefore, extended the proposed CBD tract boundaries to include those blocks. Once established, the boundaries of the central busi- ness district census tracts generally remain fixed for subsequent economic censuses. r Census tract 17 is currently divided into three block groups. Block groups are divisions of census tracts and are comprised of a cluster of census blocks. Presently, the north -south boundary of block groups 2 and 3 of tract 17, as shown on Map 1 of Attachment B, generally follows Keokuk, Marcy, and Clark Streets. The area immediately west of this boundary, however, is indistinguishable in use from the residential uses east of the boundary. As one approaches the western portion of this tracthowever, the tract becomes commercial in character. , Socio-economic and housing homogeneity are desirable within a block group. The Committee, therefore, recommends that the eastern boundary of block group 3 of census tract 17 be moved westerly in order to separate the residential from the commercial uses in that tract. It has been suggested that the boundaries as shown on Map 2 of Attachment B be used to achieve this separa- tion. The boundary of the southeastern corner of census tract 2 (southwestern corner of census tract 9) follows the Coralville/Iowa City corporate limits (Attachment C, Map 1). The primary function of census tracts is to provide data users bulation units that egrhic boundaries. Since th anitheub undaryl data abetween Coralville ands owa leityoisapnot easily defined, the Committee suggests that the southeastern boundary of census tract 2 follow an extension of Dill Street to the Iowa River (Attach- ment C, Map 2). The Committee suggests that the portion of census tract 14 east of Scott Boulevard (Attachment D) be eliminated from tract 14 and included in census tract 105. The new eastern boundary of tract 14 would be Scott Boulevard. Presently there are no residents in this area and it is speculated that there is no short range opportunity for development. Should this portion of tract 14 develop, however, at the same density as the area west of Scott Boulevard, the population of tract 14 may exceed the population limits imposed ve a o be census on ce tracts by the Census Bureau. The tract would, at that time, ha split. Dividing tract 14 for the 1990 Census would not affect the compara- bility bility of information gathered for this area from previous censuses. This exercise has been an effort to improve the usefulness of information the City obtains from the Bureau of the Census. These recommendations are being forwarded to you for your information. No Council action is necessary. Unless the Council wishes to amend the recommended changes, the alterations, as proposed, will be forwarded to the Bureau of the Census. If you have questions regarding any of these proposed changes, please do not hesitate to contact either Monica Moen, Associate Planner, at 356-5247, or me at 356-5232. cc: Dale Melling, Acting City Manager bjl/1 Po _'LQ F! ATTACHMENT A Map 1 Map 2 � Oy Itt nl Ill III � III 111 111 9:8 Illt III' -, _ n OI Itl Ill n it, i11 Ill III 111 E p 0111 n a pl• p •• n 1 On ! tl wa f •E I Itl ur a+nun' C' :m lu lu • W 111 t ter , 11 •I 1 �4.e IIP _ �.•..... I' Y ES i� n ?Rd —1AIV t- ATTACHMENT B Map 1 Map 2 iz0 -A, r ATTACHMENT C Map 1 Map 2 V 907 0 I ' -t ! r- -------------- ATTACHMENT D A, City of Iowa City MEMORANDUM Date: May 29, 1986 I o; To: City Council From: Karin Franklin, Senior Planne Re: Mandatory Open Space Dedication - Status In November 1985, the Planning and Zoning Commission tabled discussion of the Neighborhood Open Space Plan and Ordinance to June 1986 and requested legal advice on the use of impact fees to provide open space. The Commission will probably resume discussion of open space in July and August in conjunction with their consideration of subdivision and environ- mental regulations. tp4/9 90? 4 0. MINUTES OF STAFF MEETING May 28, 1986 Referrals from the informal Council meeting were distributed to the staff for review and discussion (copy attached). The Acting Assistant City Manager distributed a memorandum with an attached schedule for the orientation sessions and tours of the City for the City Manager candidates. She expressed appreciation to those staff members who are giving their time on Sunday, June 1. The Library Director initiated a discussion of the criteria used to deter- mine which staff members should be included in the orientation sessions with the candidates. The Acting City Manager advised that the staff would be receiving a memorandum regarding evaluations for administrative staff and department heads. The evaluations for administrative staff should be sent to his office by June 20 in order to be able to process the payroll change forms for the first pay period in July. A modified method for the evaluation of department heads will be used this year which will con- centrate on goals for next year. Items for the agenda of June 3 were noted. Pre ared by: — Lorraine Saeger 1 9•t In -Formal council Meeting nATC' M.„ 97 ,gRr PFNnING COUNCIL ITEMS _IA, Uj LLI Lr wm SUBJECT �'w REFERRED DATE 22 O COMMENTS/STATUS Og oU TO DUE � 2 az W W ¢ a Have weeds along ROW mowed to give better vision at Foster Road (both North Dubuque Street 5-27 Public Worls sides) and Taft Speedway. Second consideration of Plaza Cafe Special Council Meeting 5-27 City Clerk and Outdoor Service Area ordinances on Monday, June 2, 1986, at 6:45 PM. Lorraine Impact Fees 5-27 Legal Report to Council in June or July. Public Worls Have Metcalf and Eddy estimate cost to meet current needs vs cost to meet future expansion needs. P&PD When will P&Z take this up re. parkland acquisition? Railroad Crossing 5-27 Public Worls At Gilbert and Lafayette - rubberized) surface is lower than pavement. _IA, 70 Johnson County Council of Governments 410E.UtshirgonSt. bawGtyb&0a 2240 rr or 0 Date: May 29, 1986 To: Iowa City City Council and Acting City Manager JCCOG Board of Directors From: Jeff Davidson, Transportation Planner Re: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee In March the Iowa City City Council requested JCCOG to establish the Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee, to examine certain area -wide transit issues which arose during the Iowa City Transit Study last fall. The Committee has been in existence for 120 days and has developed a series of recommendations for consideration regarding transit. Attached is the Final Report of the Committee's proceedings. I am avail- able if you have any questions regarding this matter or if you wish to schedule the report for discussion at an Iowa City City Council meeting. The report will be scheduled as a discussion. item at the July JCCOG Board meeting. cc: Don Schmeiser bc4 9�z b El a r FINAL REPORT JCCOG AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MAY 1986 I� Johnson County Council of Governments �f %O 0 i i i TRANSIT REVISITED Final Report JCC06 Ad -Hoc Area Transit Study Committee May 1986 The JCCOG Ad -Hoc Area Transit Study Committee Committee Members: George Strait (Chairperson), Iowa City City Council Michael Kattchee, Mayor, City of Coralville Dick Myers, Johnson County Board of Supervisors David Ricketts, University of Iowa Director of Parking & Transportation _. Phil Shive, Downtown Association Anne Rawland, Citizen Ex -officio Members: Roger Fisher, Coralville Transit John Lundell, Iowa City Transit Mike Lankford, University of Iowa CAMBUS Larry Olson, Johnson County SEATS Frank DePirro, AFSCME Local 183 JCCOG Staff Jeff Davidson, Transportation Planner 9-? z -I r T Tableo I. Introduction. . . . . . . II. Discussion Issues: 1. Service Area Duplication. , 2. Consolidation of Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and CAMBUS. . 3 3 . The Bus 8 S h o • . ' ' ' ' ' ' ' ' • • • • • • • . P Program 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4. Marketing . 5 5. Advertising , . ' ' ' • ' • • • • • , . . . 7 6. Iowa City Transit Maintenance Organization. 7. The Community's Transit 9 10 Responsibility to Persons Disabilities. with • , 8, Iowa City Transit Fare Policy . 9. The Benefits of Public 12 13 Transit Which Extend Beyond Users. 10. Possible Reductions in Iowa City Transit , 15 Service. 12. Proposal Il. Power eto�MakenAdoHocCTransitTransit 15 Comoiittee Permanent . . . . 18 19 III. Summary , , , • • . . I . . . . . . . . .20 IV. Appendix: ! A. City Council Resolutions Regarding Parking and Transit. . B, Memoranda from Advertising Subcommittee • • 24 C. Final Report, University Student Marketing Team ' ' D. Minutes ' 26 . of the Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee. . • , 29 . 40 90? z to Introduction In July of 1985 Iowa City Transit was faced with an existing and projected deficit of $508,000 at the end of FY86. The deficit was due to lower ridership and resultant lower fare revenue, a 72% increase in bus mainte- nance charges, and increased personnel costs. A study was conducted by JCCOG and City of Iowa City staff which resulted in the adoption by the City Council of several measures to reduce the deficit. The most signifi- cant of these were the dedication of parking system revenue to the transit system, and the cutting of Saturday service from 30 minute headways to 60 minute headways. During the Iowa City Transit Study several issues developed which were of mutual interest to all of the local transit systems. In response to these issues of area -wide concern, the Iowa City City Council requested JCCOG to establish an Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee to address these issues. The JCCOG Board of Directors concurred with this need, and formed a com- mittee with representatives from Iowa City, Coralville, the University of Iowa, and Johnson County. The President of AFSCME Local 183 which repre- sents Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit and SEATS, was also repre- sented on the Committee, as was the Downtown Association and a private citizen. The JCCOG Transportation Planner was put in charge of staff support for the Committee. The Committee was given a term of 120 days to report back with recommendations on the various area -wide transit issues. The Committee was designed to keep discussion on the policy -maker level as much as possible. This was done to give the Committee's recommendations more validity, and also because staff had already discussed most of the issues. Certain issues were requested for discussion by the Iowa City City Council, while others developed during the term of the Committee. Six formal meetings were conducted by the Committee, with several informal work sessions held by various subcommittees. Additional insight was gathered from representatives of the Citizen's For Transit group, Heritage Cablevision, the City of Iowa City Finance Department and Equipment Divi- sion, and a group of University of Iowa students working on a transit marketing project. Following is a summary of committee discussion on each area -wide transit issue. 9a;z r RESOLUTION NO. 86-11 RESOLUTION REOL'ESTING THE JOHNSON COUNTY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS TO ESTABLISH AN AO HOC TRANSIT STUDY SUBCOMMITTEE. WHEREAS, the Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG) is the appro- priate forum to examine multi -governmental issues; and WHEREAS, the City of Iowa City has undertaken an operational and financial study of Iowa City Transit; and WHEREAS, several issues have been identified which in addition to Iowa City Transit, also involve Coralville Transit and University of Iowa CAMBUS ; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF IOWA CITY, IOWA, that: I. The City request the JCCOG Board of Directors to establish a nonper- manent subcommittee to examine transit issues. 2. The membership of this subcommittee will include one Council member from Iowa City, one Council member from Coralville, one administrative official from the University of Iowa and two citizen representatives. 3. The transit systems' managers and a driver's representative will serve as ex -officio members. 4. The term of this subcommittee be 120 days unless mutually agreed by the parties involved to shorten or lengthen this term. S. Issues identified for this subcommittee to examine and develop recom- mendations include: a. Further coordination and/or combination of transit routes. b. Transit marketing issues. ' c. Determining the appropriate level of mid-day transit service. d. Any other issues of mutual interest to the transit systems. 6. The subcommittee members at the completion of their examination of transit service will report back to the JCCOG Board of Directors and respective policy bodies with their results and recommendations. It was moved by Dickson and seconded by Strait the Resolu- tion be adopted, an upon roilcall there were:. AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: X AMBRISCO — X BAKER �. COURTNEY —� DICKSON MCDONALD _L STRAIT —y ZUBER Passed and approved this 14th day of January , 1986. ATTEST: =1� r Issue Al: Areas of Transit Service Duplication Summary of Committee Discussion: There are five areas of transit route overlap which occur in the community: a. North Hospital (ICT, CT, CAMBUS) b. West side dorm area (ICT, CAMBUS) c. Eastern Manville Heights (ICT, CAMBUS) d. Coralville Highway 6 corridor (CT, CAMBUS) e. North Dubuque Street corridor (ICT, CAMBUS) Although transit routes overlap in all of the above listed areas, the most significant area of service overlap is occurring in the North Dubuque Street corridor. The overlap of transit service in the North Dubuque Street corridor began several years ago when Mayflower became a University dormitory, and CAMBUS was needed to provide a higher level of transit service to this area. This eliminated the major source of ridership for Iowa City Transit on the North Dubuque Route, leaving only a small residential area at the far end of the route. CAMBUS is unable to serve this small residential area because of time and capacity constraints. It would also be a departure in CAMBUS policy to provide specific service to a non -University area. This matter is further complicated by the difference in operating policy between Iowa City Transit and CAMBUS. Iowa City Transit provides the same level of service (once an hour) all year long. CAMBUS provides widely varying levels of service at various times of year. It is not feasible for CAMBUS to cease operation to the Mayflower dormitory, as the existing level of Iowa City Transit North Dubuque Route service would be inadequate for the amount of ridership gener- ated by Mayflower. There are many examples of coordination and cooperation between Coralville Transit, Iowa City Transit, and CAMBUS. JCCOG is a forum for service dupli- cation issues as they arise. Committee Recommendation: 1. The only significant overlap of transit service in the Iowa City Urban- ized Area is occurring between Iowa City Transit and CAMBUS in the North Dubuque Street corridor. It is not feasible for CAMBUS to cease opera- tion in this corridor, as it is providing a high level of service to the Mayflower dormitory. At the present time there are legitimate reasons which do not enable CAMBUS to serve the residential area at the far end of the North Dubuque Route. 2. It is hoped that in the foreseeable future CAMBUS service can be provided to the residential area at the end of the North Dubuque Route, and that Iowa City Transit can cease operation in this area. 3 9dr?OL _A, #2: Consolidation of Iowa City Transit Coralville Transit into an Area Transit Authority Summary of Committee Discussion: The committee reached a consensus endorsing the position that JCCOG staff arrived at last fall, that it is not presently advantageous for the three systems to consolidate. Most of the advantages to consolidation are already occurring because of cooperation and coordination between the systems. These include coordination of the Downtown Transit Interchange, sharing of parts and major maintenance services, coordination of routes to avoid service duplication, honoring of monthly passes between systems, and joint vehicle purchases. Major reasons not to consolidate include: 1. The tremendous amount of local support for each system and the eroding of this support if they were not autonomous, especially by the City of - Coralville, 2. The widely varying levels of transit service provided by each system. 3. The widely varying wage rates between systems. — j 4. Extremely low administrative costs by Coralville and CAMBUS do not offer much potential for further savings if the systems were merged. 5. The increase in the amount of deadhead mileage if the systems were con- solidated. i 6. In spite of the recent financial problems encountered by all of the area transit systems, the Iowa City -area systems are still among the most efficient and effective in the State. Committee Recommendation: It is not advantageous to merge Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and CAMBUS into an area transit authority at the present time. 4 9o?O. t - Issue R3: The Bus & Shop Program. Summary of Committee Discussion: Approximately 30 downtown merchants participate in the Bus & Shop program compared to 60 who participate in Park & Shop. Bus & Shop operates similarly to Park & Shop in that merchants are charged for the bus tickets they dis- tribute which are redeemed for a bus ride. The Downtown Association operates the program. The Bus & Shop program costs participating merchants approxi- mately $700-51300 per month. This compares to ;7,000-513,000 each month for the Park & Shop program. Merchants are charged the full 50t transit fare for participation in the Bus & Shop program, and 309 per hour for Park & Shop. Committee members had several questions about the Bus & Shop program which were addressed by the Downtown Association representative. The $5 minimum purchase was considered too low. This was addressed in February when the Downtown Association approved raising the minimum purchase to $10. Publicity of the program is not consistent from merchant to merchant. The Downtown Association representative responded that all participating merchants receive signs and decals to publicize the program, but it is at their individual discretion to utilize the materials. In certain stores it is possible to have your Park & Shop ticket validated at any cash register but you must go to a separate area to receive a Bus & Shop coupon. The Downtown Association representative responded that this also is at the discretion of each individ- ual merchant. A proposal was made to combine the Bus & Shop and Park & Shop programs into a single program with a 401 merchant reimbursement rate for both programs. The Downtown Association stated that they were not willing to relinquish the 301 merchant reimbursement for the Park & Shop program. A counter proposal was made by the Downtown Association regarding improvements to the Bus & Shop program: 1. The Bus & Shop program will become a validation program like Park & Shop. For each $10 purchase a merchant will stamp a Bus & Shop coupon. Each stamp will be valued at 30t. A recipient of pass containing one stamp will then make up the 20t difference upon boarding the bus. If a pass contains two stamps the person would receive a free bus ride and the City would receive a ten cent surplus from the merchant. 2. The Downtown Association intends to commit funds for advertising the use of Iowa City Transit and encouraging people to utilize the Bus & Shop program. 3. An informational packet will be developed for use by participating mer- chants in educating their staffs regarding Bus & Shop and Park & Shop. 9•? OL o, r Committee Recommendations: 1. The committee endorses the improvements which have already been made in the Bus and Shop program, such as raising the minimum purchase to $10. 2. The Committee endorses the Downtown Association's proposed improvements to the Bus & Shop program, with reservations. A bus ride that formerly required only a $5 purchase will now require a $10 purchase and 20t contribution by the bus rider. Unless publicity and use of the program is increased, these changes may not have a favorable impact on Iowa City Transit. 3. Merchants should adopt a policy of making Bus & Shop passes as easy to obtain as Park & Shop validation. 4. All area merchants should be encouraged to participate in the Bus & Shop program, not only those in the CBD. 5. The Committee recommends that the City of Iowa City Finance Department discuss with the Downtown Association the matters of billing and printing tickets for the Bus & Shop program. 3 907 at _11k� r Issue A4: Marketing Summary of Committee Discussion: Iowa City Transit presently spends approximately $5,000 per year on marketing activities, consisting mostly of radio and print advertising. This expendi- ture is one-fifth of 1% of the Iowa City Transit budget. A distinction should be made between the concepts of marketing_ and advertising. Advertis- ing is only one segment of a completembar eting program. Marketing more broadly involves manipulating a specific product to maximize its consumption by potential users. In this case, the product is bus service and the poten- tial users are the residents of Iowa City. The marketing of Iowa City Tran- sit should be designed to ensure that the service being provided maximizes potential ridership. The following items were identified by. the Committee as the major issues in the development of an effective marketing program: 1. Cost effectiveness. The $5,000 currently spent by Iowa City Transit on mar a ing s considered nominal. Some industry standards suggest spend- ing an amount equal to 3% of the system budget on marketing. For Iowa City Transit this would be $62,000. Since the average fare on Iowa City Transit is 38t, ridership would have to increase by 163,158 to only break even on a marketing expenditure of this amount. 2. Time and expertise. Developing a proper transit marketing program will require oT5 a great deal of time and expertise by the persons involved. No one on the staff of Iowa City Transit presently has marketing as one of their work duties. Administration of the current advertising program is handled by one of the Operations Supervisors on an as -needed basis. JCCOG recently conducted a system -wide marketing survey for CAMBUS, a project which would be very valuable if conducted for Iowa City Transit. The CAMBUS survey involved much more expense and staff time than was anticipated, and would not be possible to implement for Iowa City Transit utilizing only the existing staffs of JCCOG and Iowa City Transit. Committee Recommendations: The Committee concurs that the one-fifth of 1% of the Iowa City Transit budget currently being spent on marketing is insufficient. The City Council should consider increasing the amount of funding for transit marketing to $12,500. =l� 2. The following projects as proposed in Iowa City Transit's FY87 Iowa OOT State Transit Assistance application should be pursued: a. Information/monthly pass sales table at Old Capitol Center Mail. b. Increased marketing of NCS and ACT specials. c. Elementary school marketing campaign. d. Park and Ride lot at Sycamore Mall. e. Slide/tape show for local presentations. f. Television advertising. 3. The following projects as proposed by the University journalism students should be pursued by Iowa City Transit (also see Appendix): a. Local interest public service announcements. b. A brochure promoting the use of monthly bus passes. c. The use of on -route map and schedule boxes. d. Permanent transit information display at Old Capitol Center. e. Develop a "Friends of the Bus" group similar to "Friends of the Library". f. Increased newspaper advertising. g. Expore the continued use of University students to assist with marketing projects. 4. A marketing survey of Iowa City Transit should be undertaken if funding and staffing can be arranged. 9 9a?at o, r Item R5: Bus Advertising Summary of Committee Discussion: An interior bus advertising program has been developed by CAMBUS. A single individual is responsible for the program and is paid on a commission basis. A subcommittee was assembled made up of the CAMBUS, Downtown Association, and citizen representatives to the Transit Ad Hoc Committee. They have developed a plan to expand the CAMBUS interior advertising program to Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit. It is estimated Iowa City Transit can recover $5,000-$10,000 of revenue from this program per year. It will involve no significant expense to Iowa City Transit other than the commission payments to the salesperson. i Committee discussion also examined the potential for selling advertising on transit maps, schedules, and monthly passes; and advertising the transit s. system on City water bill Committee Recommendations: 1. Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit should proceed with the interior bus advertising program which has been developed (see Appendix). 2. Iowa City Transit should continue the development of its exterior bus advertising program. 3. The transit systems should continue to investigate the potential for selling advertising on transit maps, schedules and monthly passes; and advertising the transit system on City water bills. N 90m =1� r Issue B6: Maintenance Organization of Iowa City Transit Summary of Committee Discussion: The existing arrangement for Iowa City Transit bus maintenance is unique in that no maintenance activities are actually performed by the Transit Depart- ment. All maintenance of transit vehicles is performed on a contractual _ basis by the City's Equipment Division, the same division that maintains all City vehicles such as police cars and garbage trucks. The separation of transit maintenance from Iowa City Transit is administrative, not functional - the maintenance function is performed at the transit facility by mechanics assigned to Iowa City Transit. Administratively, however, Transit mechanics are not Transit employees but employees of the Equipment Division supervised by Equipment Division personnel. A full-time maintenance supervi- sor is assigned to the transit facility. The Equipment Division Superinten- dent splits his time between Transit and the adjacent City Equipment Division building. Iowa City Transit pays for transit maintenance on a per -mile basis. A chargeback rate is calculated by the Equipment Division which includes the cost of fuel, parts and labor. The chargeback rate is applied to the number of miles operated by Iowa City Transit vehicles and funds are transferred from the Transit Department to the Equipment Division. If the chargeback rate is found to be inaccurate it is adjusted accordingly. A large portion of the recent deficit incurred by Iowa City Transit was a result of the Equipment Division adjusting the chargeback rate to more accurately reflect actual costs. Reorganization of bus maintenance to the Transit Department was proposed in 1984 by Arrow Transit Associates, a private consulting firm. The Iowa City City Manager did not feel the Arrow proposal was based on sound technical and financial data, and the reorganization did not occur. The major difficulties with the existing transit maintenance arrangement are the accountability of the transit mechanics to the Transit Department, the accuracy of the chargeback system, and inventory control. The majority of the existing and projected Transit Department deficit is due to an increase in transit maintenance charges by the Equipment Division. From the perspec- tive of the Transit Department, the Equipment Division increased charges to Transit by 72% but was not held responsible for the resulting financial crisis. There is understandably a feeling of resentment by the Transit Department that they are required to bear the responsibility for a deficit of several hundred thousand dollars that they did not implement and do not necessarily feel was justified. There has been longstanding dissatisfaction by previous Iowa City Transit Managers regarding the use of flat rates and minimum charges by the Equipment Division, and on lines of communication between transit mechanics and the Transit Department staff. The Transit Department feels that the major reason to have in-house bus maintenance is so that charges can be based on actual costs. The use of a $30/hour flat rate by the Equipment Division has led Transit to believe they are being charged 10 ?oz oz. =1'4, r- the same or more for certain types of servicing that would be charged by a private business. The minimum charge of 15 minutes has resulted in Transit being charged $7.50 for a chore which takes a few minutes such as tightening a bus mirror. In spite of the minimum charge being 15 minutes, most labor charges by the Equipment Division are for at least 30 minutes. Savings on such things as warranty work or the recent decrease in fuel prices are not immediately felt by Transit since they are initially incurred by the Equip- ment Division. The problem regarding supervision is especially critical during times when the Transit Shop Superintendent is not working (early morning, evening, and Saturdays) during which time the transit mechanics are unsupervised. Transit management personnel are working during these times but have no supervisory authority over the mechanics. Committee Recommendations: Effective January 1, 1987, the maintenance section of Iowa City Transit should be reorganized under the Transit Department. The Iowa City Transit Manager concurs with this recommendation. This action is proposed for the following reasons: 1. It will dispel the current claims of inaccuracy in the maintenance chargeback system. 2. It will allow transit maintenance to operate on an "actual cost" basis by eliminating the chargeback system using flat rates and minimum charges. 3. It will allow the Transit Department to feel the immediate benefit of such items as warranty work and lower fuel prices (the Committee acknowl- edges that this may also work in reverse to Transit's disadvantage). of sit 4 It mechill allow an- ics clearerre lineserofional communicatione betweenvithenTrransitnh Managerand the transit mechanics. — 5. Previous City administrators have claimed that centralizing City equip- ment maintenance is always considered advantageous by companies which privatize municipal equipment maintenance. The Committee does not feet this is a valid argument since City of Iowa City equipment maintenance is centralized in name only. In reality, transit maintenance is completely separate from other City equipment maintenance. It has its own separate building, separate parts inventory, and separate employees who work exclusively for Transit. For the small amount of shared maintenance, such as body and paint work, the chargeback system could remain. 11 90?Ot r Issue N7: The Community's Transit Responsibility to Persons with Disabili- ties Summary of Committee Discussion: All transit systems receiving federal funds are required to provide public transportation accessible to persons with disabilities. Current federal law requires a comparable level of public transit service for persons with disa- bilities as is provided by the regular fixed route transit system. A "compa- rable level of service" means that such factors as fares, service hours, and service area must be similar. Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and CAMBUS are all presently certified in compliance with federal regulations regarding transit service for persons with disabilities. Transportation services provided in this area for persons with disabilities include Bionic Bus, Johnson County SEATS, and the Iowa City SEATS supplemental taxi service. By virtue of the 24-hour taxi service, Iowa City is actually providing a higher than comparable level of paratransit service. The other important component of transit service for persons with disabili- ties in this community is the fixed route transit system. Iowa City Transit is available to ambulatory persons with disabilities, including persons with crutches or seeing eye dogs. Local social service programs such as Systems Unlimited and Goodwill use Iowa City Transit as an integral part of their training programs for persons with disabilities. Iowa City Transit operates specialized fixed route transit service to Goodwill every weekday. Iowa City would not be violating any regulations regarding transit service for persons with disabilities if the level of Iowa City Transit were reduced, such as by eliminating a route. As long as it was done in a non-discrimina- tory manner which reduced service for both disabled and non -disabled persons it would be acceptable. Committee Recommendation: The City Council should be aware of the dependence upon public transit by this community's relatively large population of persons with disabilities. Utilization of specialized paratransit and regular route public transit services is an integral part of assisting persons with disabilities in becom- ing independent, productive, taxpaying citizens. Any contemplated changes in transit service should be evaluated accordingly. 12 9.? z =1� Issue R8: Iowa City Transit Fare Policy Summary of Committee Discussion: In January 1983 the Iowa City City Council established a fare policy for Iowa City Transit. The basic thrust of the policy was to establish a fare struc- ture with an intent to recover 40% of Iowa City Transit operating expenses from fare revenue, 40% from the City General Fund, and 20% from State and Federal grants. "Fare revenue" was assumed to include all revenue from fares, monthly pass sales, and Bus & Shop. - The most recent year-end financial figures (FY85) disclosed that Iowa City Transit received fare revenue which covered 39% of operating expenses, Gen- eral Fund revenue which covered 48% of expenses, and State and Federal grants that covered 13% of operating expenses. The Committee reviewed information detailing the split between fares, General Fund, and State and Federal grants for the past seven years. The percentage splits between the three revenue sources have actually varied little over the past seven years - fare revenue - recovery is currently only 3% less than in FY78 and General Fund revenue only 2% higher. However, transit expenses in general have increased signifi- cantly. The 46% of transit expenses funded by the City General Fund in FY78 was $342,118. The 48% funded by the General Fund in FY85 was $893,682. State and Federal revenue has provided between 10% and 13% of Iowa City Transit revenue each year. The alternative of using a local option tax dedicated to transit was dis- cussed. Local option taxes must be approved in a voter referendum, and can be dedicated to any city services including transit. A portion of local option tax revenue must also be dedicated to property tax relief. A local option tax, such as a wheel tax, might pass a county -wide voter referendum if it were packaged to appeal to both urbanized area and non -urbanized area interests. For example, a wheel tax with a portion of the revenue dedicated to transit and a portion dedicated to secondary road improvements would have appeal to voters both inside and outside of the metropolitan area. Committee Recommendation: The fare policy should be revised to more reasonably reflect actual conditions. 40% is an excellent rate of return for fare revenue in a small system, and is a reasonable goal for a system as success u as Iowa City Transit. State and Federal revenue has never achieved close to the 20% share of Iowa City Transit's expenses called for in the existing fare policy. It is projected to remain the same or slightly below the exist- ing level of 13%. This leaves a 47% share for local tax/General Fund revenue. The Committee is aware that the City Council must Dalance—We tax needs of transit against the needs of all other City services, while not exceeding the self imposed cap set on property taxes. 13 I� r -7 2. The Finance Department should prepare detailed information for the Coun- cil regarding the use of a local option tax such as a wheel tax to gener- ate revenue for transit. This idea may be feasible if packaged in an appropriate manner, such as dedicating a portion of the revenue to county secondary road repair. 3. Although it has been suggested, Council should not consider subsidizing monthly bus passes for school children. School children provide a large amount of vandalism and disruption for the transit system, ride during peak periods, and take up approximately the same amount of room as adults. It would also be unfair to subsidize school children since they are likely to be more financially secure than the average University student. 4. At the present time Council should not consider raising fares above 50t. 14 ?0? Ot r Issue #9: The Benefits of Transit Service Which Extend Beyond Users Summary of Committee Discussion: Based on surveys which have been done in other communities, it is estimated that 25%-40% of the population in Iowa City are either regular or occasional users of the transit system. In addition, however, it is important to con- sider that the beneficiaries of transit service extend beyond the users of the system. Non-users of transit who benefit from transit service include merchants, apartment owners, and automobile drivers. Non -user benefits of transit service were identified by the Committee as follows: 1. Transit reduces congestion on city streets and in parking facilities. If everyone who commutes downtown by bus were forced to drive or ride in a car, it would cause great congestion and necessitate street widening and the construction of a new parking structure. 2. The transit system is a contributor to the security of the community. There are many examples of bus drivers being the first to report traffic accidents, personal injuries, and crimes. 3. The owners of residential dwellings consider transit a very important factor in marketing their units. Housing advertisements noting location on a bus line are common. 4. Transit benefits persons who are responsible for people that cannot drive; such as parents, or guardians of elderly or handicapped per- sons. Instead of always having to be given a ride, transit allows children, elderly, and persons with disabilities to have mobility and develop a sense of independence. Studies have shown that mobility contributes to good health and keeping people off of public relief. S. Transit increases the level of activity in the CBD and generally contributes to the sense of vitality that comes from having people downtown. 6. Transit has a favorable impact on air pollution reduction and energy conservation, although it is acknowledged that it is difficult to quanitfy this in a community as small as Iowa City. Committee Recommendation: The Committee strongly endorses the concept of the benefits of transit serv- ice extending beyond the users of the system. Future discussion of transit issues by the City Council should take this fact into consideration. 15 90?z _A1 o, _A1 r Issue #10 Discuss Possible Reductions in Iowa City Transit Service: Summary of Committee Discussion: The Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee recognizes that reductions in Iowa City Transit service may need to occur in the future if ridership and revenue recovery do not improve. The only service reduction implemented by the City Council thus far has been the reduction of Saturday service from 30 minute headways to 60 minute headways. The major deficit -reducing measures selected by the City Council during the Iowa City Transit Study last fall were to transfer $250,000 from the parking reserve fund to transit operations, and increase parking fees with the additional revenue dedicated to transit (see Appendix). Although the increased revenue from parking fees was initially intended to be an ongoing revenue source for transit, the City Council is now saying that this was not their intention. Council has made it clear that if ridership continues to fall and transit continues to generate a deficit, they will be reevaluating the proposals to reduce transit service. If the Council discusses transit service reductions again, the various alter- natives they will be presented with will deal with two potential methods of achieving service reductions: (1) across -the -system reductions by reducing headways or combining routes, and (2) cutting specific areas of service such as an individual route. Committee Recommendations: 1. It is unreasonable for the City Council to consider the transit system and parking system as totally separate entities. They are both services are theCBD. Assuch, they should becoordinated as ehl�me ment of persons into much as possible. 2. The marketing and advertising proposals being developed by Iowa City Transfore,ianyoreductions in transit erviceshould bshouldna chance to be postponed forrThencourage ere- fore, In the interim, parking revenue generated above the amount needed for bond financing and parking system operations should continue to be dedi- cated to the transit system. 3. of the two methods of achieving reductions in transit service (across - the -system reductions and specific area elimination), the Committee does not recommend one over the other. Each must be evaluated in terms of the immediate impact a proposed reduction will have on the public. Consolida- tion the shouldobehconsideedWasdaaservice reduction , and Seventh venue routes alternative.into other 16 9az r 4. In addition to the service reduction alternatives outlined in the October _ 1985 JCCOG Iowa City Transit Study, an additional service reduction alternative is to not begin operating rush hour service in August. The advantage to this alternative is that it does not appear to the public as a service cut, although it would entail the elimination of three bus routes. As stated in recommendation #2 above, the Committee is not endorsing this action at the present time, only offering it for future consideration. a i 4. In addition to the service reduction alternatives outlined in the October _ 1985 JCCOG Iowa City Transit Study, an additional service reduction alternative is to not begin operating rush hour service in August. The advantage to this alternative is that it does not appear to the public as a service cut, although it would entail the elimination of three bus routes. As stated in recommendation #2 above, the Committee is not endorsing this action at the present time, only offering it for future consideration. Issue All: Iowa City Transit Power Steering Issue Summary of Committee Discussion: Iowa City Transit has both 35' and 40' buses. Of the 40' buses, all have power steering except for the two oldest vehicles, A13 and A14. These 1974 GM buses are used in normal regular route service, and are very difficult to steer according to bus drivers. These two buses could be retrofitted with power steering for approximately $2500 each. This has been suggested several times to the Iowa City City Council, but never approved. In the meantime a significant amount of mechanics' time has been spent attempting to make the buses steer easier, thus far to no avail. The City of Iowa City's insurance carrier has recommended this retrofitting be implemented because of the potential for workmen's compensation claims. Committee Recommendation: This should continue to be dealt with as a personal matter between Iowa City Transit and the City Council. 18 9o?z. r- #12: Discuss Making the JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Summary of Committee Discussion: This issue was not brought up by the Committee, but at the request of a member of the public. The person felt that since transit issues will be ongoing in the future, the Ad Hoc Committee ought to be made a permanent body. When the existing Committee was created it was deliberately given a term of 120 days. It is the opinion of the JCCOG staff member for the current Committee that the creation of a permanent transit committee would require the services of a one-quarter time staff person. Policy representatives on the Transit Ad Hoc Committee stated that any requests for additional staff would be met with negative reaction by the JCCOG Board of Directors. Committee members also expressed concern about making their own commitment to the Committee a perma- nent fixture. There are already several venues for discussion of transit issues at the policy and technical levels: the JCCOG Board of Directors and Technical Advisory Committee for area -wide issues; and the Iowa City Commit- tee on Community Needs for issues exclusive to Iowa City. Committee Recommendation: The JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee should not be made a permanent body. The JCCOG Board of Directors and Technical Advisory Committee, as well as the Iowa City Committee on Community Needs, should be utilized as venues for area -wide transit issues which occur in the future. 19 9,? z Summary Issue 1. Areas of transit service duplication 2. Consolidation of Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and CAMBUS into an area transit authority. 3. The Bus and Shop program Recommendations CAMBUS to extend May- flower service to small residen- tial area at the end of the ICT North Dubuque route in the foreseeable future. Not advantageous at the present time. 1. Committee endorses recent improvements such as raising the minimum purchase to $10. 2. Committee endorses the pro- posed improvements by the Downtown Association to the Bus and Shop Program provided publicity is increased. 3. Bus & Shop passes should be as easy to obtain as Park & Shop validation. 4. All area merchants should participate. 5. Finance Dept. should work with DTA on billing and printing. 4. Marketing 1. Increase funding for market- ing. 2. Pursue Iowa DOT State Transit Assistance projects. 3. Pursue projects proposed by University journalism stu- dents. 4. Attempt marketing survey. 20 I a, '?OR SL -A] _1A1 5. Advertising 6. Maintenance organization of Iowa City Transit 7. The Community's transit responsibility to persons with disabilities 8. Iowa City Transit fare policy 9. The benefits of transit which extend beyond users 1. Proceed with proposed interior bus advertising program. 2. Continue development of exte- rior bus advertising program. 3. Investigate potential for advertising on transit maps, schedules, and monthly passes; and advertising on City water bills. Effective January 1, 1987 reorganize maintenance under Iowa City Transit. The City Council should maintain awareness of the dependence upon public transit by persons with disabilities, especially when contemplating changes in the level Of Iowa City Transit service. 1. Fare policy should be revised to reflect more realistic conditions. 2. Consider local option tax to fund transit. 3. Do not subsidize monthly passes for school children. 4. Do not raise fares above 50t at present time. Endorse the concept of the bene- fits of transit extending beyond users of the system. 10. Possible reductions in Iowa City Transit service I. Consider transit and parking as a coordinated system de- signed to facilitate the movement of persons into the CBD. 2. Delay cuts in Iowa City Tran- sit service one year to give marketing and advertising pro- posals a chance to work. Continue dedicating parking revenue to Transit during this time, if it is available. 21 90m a 3. One particular type of service reduction is not advantageous over another - each must be evaluated individually. Con- sider consolidation of routes. 4. Not operating rush hour serv- ice should be considered as a service reduction alternative. 11. Iowa City Transit power steering Should be dealt with as a issue personal matter between Iowa City Transit and the City Council. 12. Proposal to make JCCOG Ad Hoc Ad Hoc Committee should not be Area Transit Study Committee a made a permanent body. JCCOG permanent body and CCN should be utilized as venues for area -wide transit issues which occur in the future. i i 22 9�z r ,4 Al RESOLUTION NO. 86-13 RESOLUTION SETTING PARKING RATES FOR THE IOWA CITY PARKING SYSTEM WHEREAS, Chapter 23, Division 3, Code of Iowa City, establishes provisions for parking meter zones and parking lots, and WHEREAS, parking revenues will be used to provide funding for Transit Operations, and WHEREAS, such funding for transit operations requires an increase in the total annual parking revenue amount. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IOWA CITY, IOWA, THAT: Effective February 1, 1986, the existing parking rates will be increased accord- ingly to: Central Business District On -Street Meter ........................$.4b/hour Central Business District Lot Meter..............................$.40/hour Peripheral On -Street Meter (Outside Central Business District) ... $.30/hour Peripheral Lot Meter (Outside Central Business District)......... $.30/hour Lot Permits ...................................................$30.00/month City Employee Lot Permits.....................................$15.00/month . .. .. .. _... _ Meter Hoods ..................................................... ,$4.00/day Parking Ramps: Hourly Parker. .................... . .. ..$.40/hour Monthly Permits .............................................$40.00/month The above hourly parking rates for parking ramps will apply to both parking ramps with the exception of: Cars exiting when a cashier is not on duty: a flat rate of 75t must be depos- ited at the exit gate. It was moved by Baker and seconded by Dickson the Resolution be adopted, and upon roll call there were: AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: _g_ Ambrisco X Baker X Courtney Dickson X_ McDonald X_ Strait X_ Zuber Passed and approved this 14th day of January 1986. M OR ATTEST: CITY �E� K•• RA 4gof 24 ��� r RESOLUTION NO. 86-14 _ A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF SURPLUS FUNDS FROM PARKING OPERATIONS TO TRANSIT OPERATIONS. WHEREAS, there is projected to be surplus funds in the Parking Systems after making all deposits into all funds required by the terms, covenants, condi- tions, and provisions of outstanding revenue bonds, pledge orders and other obligations which are payable from the revenues of the Parking Systems, and, WHEREAS, surplus funds now exist in the Parking Operations fund balance. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED. BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IOWA CITY, IOWA, THAT: 1. $250,000 will be transferred from the surplus funds in the Parking Opera- tions fund balance to Transit Operations. 2. Additional surplus funds will be transferred from Parking Operations to Transit Operations, as surpluses are generated, in an amount not to exceed $140,300 during FY86 and $430,500 during FY87 and each fiscal year thereafter. It was moved by Baker and seconded by Dickson the Resolution be adopted, an upon roll call there were: AYES: NAYS: ABSENT: X X X X X y_ X Ambrisco Baker Courtney Dickson McDonald Strait Zuber Passed and approved this 14th day of January 1986. MAYOR c 25 9o?ot I o, _A -I Date: April 9, 1986 To: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee From: Advertising Subcommittee Re: Interior Bus Advertising Of the ways to increase transit income, interior advertising offers one of the fastest paybacks for the least amount of effort. While Iowa City and Coralville presently allow organizations to post interior displays free of charge, CAMBUS reserves 25 spaces for paying customers. Increased management experience and a top notch sales person netted CAMBUS $7,500 during 1985. This year CAMBUS expects to fill all of its spaces, each 11 % 17 inches, and net $12,000. In fact, a raise in their rates will be necessary to prevent overbooking. If Iowa City committed the same number of spaces the maximum net would be approximately $10,000 based on the proposed rates. However it may take a year to build the clientele to this level. In order to maximize the knowledge gained by those who have administered such a program, it is proposed that the Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit link up with CAMBUS, at least initially. The following structure would be used: 1. All systems would use the same sales representative. 2. The sales representative would be considered an independent contrac- tor, receiving 25% commission on all sales. 3. Advertisers would be free to choose any combination of transit systems to advertise in. A discount would be applied to advertisers using all three transit systems. 4. Advertisers would be responsible for providing ads. 5. The sales representative would be responsible for delivering the ads prior to the posting date and provide a removal date to the transit system(s). The sales representative would also be responsible for collecting ads which are scheduled to run at a future time. 6. The transit systems would be responsible for replacing damaged ads and removing ads at the proper date. It is also recommended that after the system is in place and management feels comfortable with its operation, each system review individual rates and the sales representative's performance. If at any time one system is dissatisfied with its rates or the performance of the sales representative they may change their individual rates and/or may hire a new sales repre- sentative. However, group rates will always be agreed upon by the three A systems. 26 diazz -Al r 1986 Rates Cambus I Iowa City 1 Cocalvllle I TOTAL Package 1 - $21.82 $141.82 130.91 1 $49.09 1 $152.73 1 12 Weeks $70.91 $57.27 1 $25.45 $14.55 $82.73 1 529.09 1 $189.09 0 3 Weeks 1 $65.45 1 00 $208.00 192.0 4 Weeks $99,5 $32 $209.46 01 I $72.00 I $226.9 5 Weeks 513 $18.55 1 $34.91 $241.08 5222.54 6 Weeks $1. $83.45 1 $3709 i 1 Weeks 1 12054 II I 1 $40.00 1 5260.00 $240.00 1 360.00 1 2 Months I $130.00 I 590.00 I $60.00 I $390.00 3 Months I 5195.00 I $135.00 I $80,00 ( $520.00 $480.00$180 I 4 Months I $260.00 I $225 00 I 1 650.00 $600.00 5 Months i $325.00 i 5225.00 i $100.00 1 i i $720.00 $6 63.00 $108.00 I 00 5713.50 I1 $Zy$840$884.00$360.00 1 $126.00 6 Months $420.00 1 04,00 $144.00 $960.00 994,50 1 7 Months $480.00 1 $336.00 1 $162.00 $1,080.00 00 8 Months $318.00 I $1,200.00 $1,105. 9 Months $540.00 5420.00 18. 00 51320.00 $1,215.50 $600.00 1 $900 1 10 Months 0660.00 $48.200 11 Months 1 II $198.00 12 Months 1 51,326.00 $1,200.00 1 I 5660.00 I 0468.00 I Ed Snuffln 417 4th Ave. *E-1 Cozalvllle, Iowa 52241 (319) 354-8551 27 gi; z =11 r Date: April 9, 1986 To: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee From: Advertising Subcommittee Re: Advertising Surfaces One way to reduce transit system costs is to sell various advertising surfaces to area merchants. For example, each transit system provides the public with route maps and schedules. These could be paid for by a mer- chant or groups of merchants, who would then have their name, location, logo, etc. prominently displayed on the literature. Iowa City spends approximately $11,500 each year on the maps and schedules. These are divided into three categories: 1. Large transit maps $5,000 2. Individual route schedules $1,500 3. Area -wide schedule booklets $5,000 Although it is unlikely a single merchant would contribute to all of the categories, groups of merchants such as the Downtown Association, the Sycamore Mall Association or local banks may be interested in supporting one type of literature. tp3/2 9j 490702 I 4; DATE: May 8, 1986 TO: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee FROM: Beth Bottoni, Elizabeth Hon erp,) cia Tekippe RE: Final Report, Student Marketing Team After a semester of working with the transit systems, this team has developed the beginnings of a marketing and promotional campaign for both the Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit. The intention of this campaign is to develop a positive public image and convey knowledge regarding area transit. By accomplishing this, the ultimate goal is to increase ridership on the tides' buses. After a great amount of research and compiling of information regarding the bus systems, this team - has developed three projects for use by the transit systems. These include: (1) Three scripts for 30 -second public service announcements. i i I (2) A brochure promoting the use of the bus pass. I (3) The use of map and schedule boxes. I These projects are discussed individually in the following report. Concluding the report is a Est of suggestions for the transit systems to use in continuing to develop this campaign. Many other useful ideas were proposed, but with the limited amount of time, and to assure quality work, efforts were concentrated on these three projects. 29 '?OR z -Al DATE: May 8, 1986 TO: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee FR: Beth Bottoni, Elizabeth Hong(Pvdcia Tekippe RE: Videospots In the initial meeting of City Councilor George Strait and this student team, Mr. Strait suggested the use of local personalities in videospots to promote increased ridership on the buses. The attached scripts develop that idea. Script uses - . p to get the viewers attention, then repeats some of the key information from the brochure, ending with the slogan, "Ride the bus with us," which runs through the entire marketing campaign, The Old Capitol background is used to locate the spot, Script #2 moves to Sycamore Mall, another likely destination for bus riders. The mime troupe and i the humor of the script give the same message to the viewer, but from a different angle. The Closing frame, the mimes with their noses pressed to the bus window, and the words scrolling up, "Ride the bus with us," can also be used as a poster, as a newspaper ad and possibly in other materials to be developed later. (See addendum ) A local mime troupe willing to do the spot is Yours in Mime, of the Newman Center and the Wesley Foundation. The director of the group is Judy Antill, 351-7440. The contact person this summer while Antill works out of town will be Dan Teets, 354-0444. 30 9a?ot VIDEOSPOTS page 2 Script #3 is a fo of the value of C now, and anothe All the videopsc area commercial BUDGET for one 30 -second videospot - Local Personality Public Service Drew Shaffer, Iowa City _ Cable TV Specialist $ 25/hr 5 hr $ 125.00 Rental of Equipment per day 10000 3/4 in Videotape 20 min 15.00 Transportation Supplied by Iowa City Editing Supplied by Iowa City Cable Channel Time ----------- -------------------- Public Service ------------- ------- No No Net Charge for service of one city department to another 32 9.ROL Script k2 30 -Second VIDEOSPOTPROMOTING IOWA CITY TRANSIT RIDERSHIP MIMES VIDEO AUDIO Mimes -two adults, two children- CALLIOPE MUSIC. with arms full of bags from Sycamore Mall stores, walk up to an imaginary car in the lot, a space in a tine of cars. They get into the car, one of SOUND OF CAR DOOR SLAMMING. the adults getting behind the wheel. Driver tries to start SOUND OF CAR REFUSING TO START. car, without success. One of the group notices the nearby bus stop, with bus pulling up and letting passengers off. They all pick up parcels and get on the bus. The driver kicks a car tire in exasperation as they leave. Mimes get on the bus and walk - to the back. Audience sees their faces pushed against a back bus window as bus pulls away. These words roll up on the screen: Ride the bus with us! Only $16 will buy a bus pass SOUND OF BUS PULLING AWAY. good for unlimited rides during the whole month. Tag with Iowa City Transit logo. 33 9—• OL r Script#3 30 -Second VIDEOSPOT PROMOTING IOWA CITY TRANSIT RIDERSHIP LOCAL TRANSIT USERS CONCEPT - Feature residents of Iowa City who use the bus regularly and are - enthusiastic about it. Some possibilities are these individuals who have written letters to Iowa City officials about the transit system in the past few months. 1) Lee Ann Bomberger. "First of all must compliment you on your wonderful bits system. I am from the Etat Coast and I have never seen anything like it." 2) John Bowers: "I've lived in the Iowa City area since 1959, in Iowa City itself since 1962. During that entire period, I've regularly used the transit system." (Prof. Bowers also uses the bus as a selling point when encouraging prospective faculty members to move to Iowa City.) 3) Joan Jehle, Office Manager, Iowa City Public Library: 7 believe that tire majority of Iowa City residents are aadauLto support their local transit system." 4) Michel L. Lapidus, Professor. 7 am a visitor for the academic year at the University of Iowa; since the beginning of my stay, last August, I have been using daily the public transportation of Iowa City. I have been very impressed by the excellent bus service that is provided in this city." 5) Marianne Michael: "One of the really great things about Iowa City is its bus system. Itis a pleasure to be downtown at the bus stop and to see people hurrying to a bus and then heading out in all different directions." 6) John Watson, Executive Director of Goodwill: "The vast majority of our clients, current and former, are dependent on transit for all their needs, including work, visiting, shopping, meetings, recreation, etc." Additional names are available by consulting A) the letters on file at the city clerk's office, B) the videotape of the Iowa City City Council meeting of December 17,1985 (on file at the city library), and C) the bus drivers who interact daily with loyal riders. In fact, some of those drivers themselves would be good subjects for spots. 34 90? z DATE: May 8, 1986 TO: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee FROM: Beth Bottom, Elizabeth Hong,cia Tekippe RE: Brochure UM This brochure was designed for promoting the use of the monthly bus pass for the Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit systems. The brochure is structured to clearly identify what a monthly bus pass is, how much it costs and how you can get one. For convenience a form is attached The brochure also points out the efficiency, convenience, dependability and safety of the transit systems. Another important aspect of this brochure is a comparison of estimated monthly car costs versus using a bus pass. These cost figures are courtesy of the American Automobile Association adapted to the Iowa City - Coralville. The office that prints the Iowa City Transit schedules canrint 3 $100.00. P 000 brochures for approzunately 35 90? a?. 9 DATE: May 8, 1986 TO: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee FROM: Beth Bottoni, Elizabeth Hong icta Tekippe RE: Map and schedule boxes A main reason individuals do not utilize the transit system is their lack of knowledge regarding it. In other words, area residents do not know where the buses go and what times they leave. Therefore, the transit system needs to make this information readily available to potential patrons. Using map and schedule boxes, similar to those used by CAMBUS, is an effective way of having information immediately available to the person who wants to use the bus. Also, patrons will not have to call the transit offices for information or step on the bus to ask the bus driver. These rectangular boxes are made of metal and plexiglass. Each displays a map showing that particular route in the city and the times the bus arrives at that stop (see next page for a sample).A map and schedule box is attached to the pole of a bus stop sign. This team recommends posting these display boxes at bus stops in Iowa City and Coralville. The initial expense is $25-$50 per box, depending upon where they will be constructed. Since this is a large initial expense, the project can be accomplished over several years. The fust set of boxes can be used in strategic locations where the highest population will have access to them. 36 9•? 4 I o; a. 1 cambu-1 ACADEMIC SERVICE MONDAY -FRIDAY FOR MORE INFORMATION -���§ W��K��lb•", tli.,..,.,.,,,,a.,CAL4, 353,,. . - ......:...............:SERVICE„ UNT,� �,. SEP.Le,..�.�.$,`�. � KQ ROUTE MIM TO MIM* 6.30 Mt -6.00 crt FIRST 915 6:44 M1 :59 :14 BLIS EVERY :29 ! 15-MINfrES :44 5:59 PM NIGHT: 6•00 PM -11•66 FM 6:14 PM FUSN��IES '444 LAST 9b 11:44 FM i ► DENOTES BUS STOP LOCATIONS Ya1 � HN ►►�� I Ili • /I CNVRC. al IOWA CITY h...,.•1 , II o•r"Nro,� Sf• N II; N.,• r. •� (. ra^ArrfewN Dr. ,` •'�'• cbNo •.f. -Y �' '1 O •lN:.IJN'v� .•6 \1 -- E10-ORRIER FkL i `• 37 9�13 r DATE: May 8,1986 TO: JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee FR: Beth Bottoni, Elizabeth Hon cia Tekippe RE: ADDENDUM -Additional marketing concepts and strategies. If I had a brand new Cadillac that I wanted to sell for $5,000, and I complained that no one wanted to buy it, but I kept it locked in the garage behind my house and refused to tell anyone about it, you might suggest that there is something lacking in my marketing strategy. That is somewhat the situation of the Iowa City Transit System. We have one of the best systems in the United States, the Cadillac of bus systems, but the local population hasn't been told about it. About two-tenths of one percent of the total budget for the year is all the transit manager has been allowed to spend on marketing. Industry sources recommend three to five percent of the annual budget. That is 12 to 20 times the amount being spent now. For any long term benefits to come of these present efforts to increase bus ridership, the transit & manager must have a reasonable amount to spend on marketing. We recommend increasing the �,,,, figure five -fold in the FY87 budget, and doubling that figure the next year. That would be about one percent in FY87 and 2 percent in FY88. Some factors to consider in developing further bus promotions are: 1) The area transit system is arguably one of the most efficient, dependable and economical in the nation. 907 at il r ADDENDUM page 2 2) Area population has a high turnover, bringing always a new group that needs to be informed of the advantages of using the transit system. 3) Using resources of the university, such as graduate student interns in marketing, can stretch the budget dollars available. In the course of this study of ridership, many enthusiastic plans were put forth by concerned citizens. Some of the most feasible are listed below, as "starters" for on-going marketing efforts. 1) At the beginning of each semester place ads in the daily papers, telling map, schedule, popular destination points, and including a form to send in to order a monthly bus pass. 2) At the beginning of the fall semester set up a booth to sell bus passes at Washington and Clinton, near the downtown bus interchange. _ 3) Before the holiday shopping season place similar ads, emphasizing Bus & Shop. 4) Accompany 1), 2) and 3) with radio spots telling the same message. 5) Provide maps and bus schedules to new University of Iowa and all new downtown employees. 6) Encourage city workers to take the bus instead of their cars by replacing the present 50 percent rate to park in municipal lots by a cut-rate bus pass ($10). (See Nov. 1, 1984 and Dec. 18, 1985 memos of Joan Jehle, Office Manager, Iowa City Public Library, on file at city clerk's desk.) 7) At Old Capitol Center (since it is near the downtown exchange) post a large, lighted map showing all routes and schedules. 8) About the time the weather starts to tum cold, offer one week of free rides between the hours of 9 a.m, and 3 p.m. Precede with radio and newspaper publicity emphasizing clean, comfortable, dependable service. 9) The drivers are the most immediate, everyday public relations workers for the transit. To improve their skills at this phase of their work, and to build morale, plan an annual Appreciation Dinner, scheduling a motivational speaker for the event. 10) Develop a "Friends of the Bus" group similar to "Friends of the Library." The group can be advisory in developing transit promotion. 39 9o?OL r MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1986 - 3:30 P.M. IOIIA CITY TRANSIT BUILDING CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Kattchee, Coralville; George Strait, Iowa City; Dave Ricketts, University of Iowa; Dick Myers, Johnson County; Anne Rawland, citizen MEMBERS ABSENT: Phil Shive, citizen EX -OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT: Larry McGonagle, Bill Dollman, Roger Fisher, Mike Lankford, Frank DePirro STAFF PRESENT: Jeff Davidson, John Lundell GUESTS PRESENT: Patricia Tekippe, Beth Bottoni 1. Call to Order. Davidson called the meeting to order at 3:35 p.m. 2. Election of Chairperson. Kattchee nominated Strait. Rawland seconded the nomination. Strait was unanimously elected chairperson of the Committee. 3. Explanation of Committee Function. Davidson and Strait explained the function of the Ad Hoc Transit Study Committee. DePirro asked why there was a distinction between official members and ex -officio members. Davidson replied that the intent of the Committee was to have discussion occur at the policy -maker level. Staff has already discussed most of the issues. 4. Issue /1: Service Area Duplication by Coralville Transit Iowa Cit Transit, and CAMBUS. Strait asked members to refer to Staff Report dl. Kattchee stated that most of these duplication issues have been looked into. Davidson explained that the five areas listed did not necessarily indicate that the intent of the service provided was being duplicated. The group discussed each of the five areas listed in the staff report. DePirro asked if there would be an advantage to Iowa City in having the CAMBUS Pentacrest route going back to 20 minute headways. Ricketts responded he did not think the Iowa City Manville Heights route received a large increase in ridership when Pentacrest went to 20 minute headways. The issue of route duplication in the North Hospital area was discussed at length by the Committee. Kattchee said he did not feel there was the potential for great cost savings even if route duplication at North Hospital was lessened. Staff was directed to provide schedules and maps for the next meeting, as well as additional information to indi- cate more about the intent of the various transit routes which over- lap. Myers arrived at 4:15. 40 g0? OL _A1 r MINUTES JCCOG TRANSIT AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE FEBRUARY 20, 1986 PAGE 2 5. Issue A2: Transit System Consolidation. Davidson explained that the JCCOG Transportation Planning staff has looked into this issue several times in the last five years, the most recent of which was during the Iowa City Transit Study in fall 1985. The information which was produced at that time was reproduced in Staff Report d2, and is basically a case for not consolidating the three systems. Kattchee stated he was not sure that the various transit routes would change that much under an area -wide transit authority. There was general concurrence from the Committee that preserving the three separate transit systems is preferable at this time. There was also general acknowledgement from the Committee that a great deal of coordination and cooperation between the three systems is occurring at the present time. 6. Issue R3: The Bus -and -Shop Program. Strait stated he would like to defer this discussion because of the proposal by the Mayor of Iowa City to modify the park -and -Shop pro- gram. Rawland stated that she does not feel merchants are aware of the many individuals who purchase their own bus passes and make pur- chases from downtown merchants. Davidson outlined the Park -and -Shop proposal by the Mayor of Iowa City. DePirro proposed having merchants be required to reimburse 40 cents for both the Bus -and -Shop and Park -and -Shop programs. Strait asked DePirro if he would be willing to put his proposal in a letter to the City Council. DePirro acknowl- edged that he would be willing to do this. Strait stated he felt certain downtown retailers are not aware of all the benefits to them of the Bus -and -Shop program. Myers stated that business is not very good for area retailers. 7. Issue ►4: Marketing. Strait introduced two guests who are working with him on some market- ing issues. Bottoni explained what they are proposing to do in the way of developing some advertising services for Iowa City Transit. Strait stated he felt he could sell the Iowa City Council on providing addi- tional funds to Iowa City Transit for increasing their marketing efforts. Strait outlined many of the local resources at the Univer- sity of Iowa and at the local cable television operation which should be tapped to aid in the local marketing of transit. Kattchee stated that transit should be marketed as a public service which benefits everyone, not only users. Strait asked Coralville and CAMBUS repre- sentatives if they are willing to assist Iowa City in their marketing efforts. Kattchee and Rickets replied that Coralville and CAMBUS are supportive of Iowa City's efforts but would not be willing to support Iowa City's efforts financially. 41 9RA r MINUTES JCCOG TRANSIT AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE FEBRUARY 20, 1986 PAGE 3 8. Other Business. Strait brought up the issue of service duplication in the North Dubuque Corridor. Ricketts stated the biggest problem for CAMBUS in providing service north of the Mayflower Apartments is inadequate capacity on their vehicles. Rawland stated that as a taxpayer it bothered her that the general public does not have to pay to use CAMBUS. She wondered if it was not feasible for the University to require students and faculty to show their ID cards in order to board _ CAMBUS. Ricketts stated he does not feel many people understand the intent of the CAMBUS operation. Showing passes or paying a fare to board the bus would increase dwell time significantly. Ricketts stated only 2% of CAMBUS riders are persons not affiliated with the University. Strait stated 2% of CAMBUS ridership paying a 501 fare as required on Iowa City Transit would generate approximately $34,000. Kattchee asked about not letting the general public ride CAMBUS, thereby forcing them on the public systems. Lundell stated that UMTA would not allow this. Ricketts stated that he would be glad to talk privately with anyone about the CAMBUS operation. The next meeting of the Committee was set for Wednesday, March 6, from _. 4:30-6:00. 9. Adjournment. Strait declared the meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m. Minutes taken by: Jeff Davidson. 42 y07z � � a MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1986 - 4:30 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT BUILDING CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: George Strait, Iowa City; Michael Kattchee, Coralville; Dave Ricketts, University of Iowa; Anne Rawland, citi- zen; Phil Shive, citizen (late) MEMBERS ABSENT: Dick Meyers, Johnson County EX -OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT: Roger Fisher, Frank DePirro STAFF PRESENT: Jeff Davidson, John Lundell, Steven Van Steenhuyse GUESTS PRESENT: Elizabeth Hong, Patricia Tekippe, Bob Tauber 1. CALL TO ORDER. Strait called the meeting to order at 4:34. He congratulated Lundell on being appointed the new Iowa City Transit Manager. He suggested that the order of the agenda be changed and that Marketing be dis- cussed first. There were no objections. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. Rawland moved that the February 20 minutes be approved. Ricketts seconded. The minutes were approved unanimously. 3. MARKETING. Davidson discussed the Iowa Department of Transportation Transit Marketing Seminar. He described a State Transit funding program which will have funds available for transit marketing. He said that a - program targeted to elementary school students is being looked at by _. Iowa City Transit, as well as campaigns targeted to employees at American College Testing and National Computer Systems. Other pro- grams being considered are the establishment of Park and Ride lots, information tables, and TV advertising. For Coralville, a transit — route to the new Rockwell plant is being considered. A plan to at- tract more off-peak riders for CAMBUS' Mayflower route is also being considered. Shive arrived at 4:41. Lundell talked about marketing on Heritage Cablevision. They would be able to buy low-cost spots on popular channels such as ESPN, as well as the local channels. Bob Tauber of Heritage answered questions about their rates. Lundell provided the Committee with copies of - Heritage's rate card, and Tauber explained how rates are determined. 43 90?a =1k� r MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1986 - 4:30 P.M. PAGE 2 Strait asked for a report from the journalism students working on marketing strategies. Tekippe gave the members a handout comparing Iowa City transit ridership with paid parking hours downtown. She mentioned that the costs of the new addition to the Dubuque Street parking ramp average about $8,600 per stall, and increasing bus rider- ship would save the City money by reducing the need for additional parking. She said that a good strategy would be to encourage more ridership at off-peak hours. Tekippe gave the members a photocopied example of a leaflet to promote transit ridership. She said such a leaflet would include a coupon which would allow patrons to purchase bus passes by mail. Strait asked her to find out about the possibilities of leafleting, as well as the costs of direct mail. Tekippe suggested targeting University of Iowa faculty and downtown employees. Strait suggested that the Senior Center and Oaknoll also be targeted. Tekippe said that the leaflets and two 30 -second television spots were being considered as projects by her group. Other possibilities are Putting route maps and information on bulletin boards at the downtown specific ransit icostcf figures forStrait all ofasked heseaproposals. Rawlandrepare a uwastwith asked to assist. He also asked that the merchants at Sycamore Mall be involved in the project. 4. BUS AND SHOP PROGRAM. Davidson outlined the recent decision by the Iowa City City Council to not require downtown merchants to pay the extra ten cents in increased wouldphavengoneetoisupport the transitn their Park and hsystem9program. This extra revenue Shive said that the Downtown Association has raised the minimum pur- chase requirement of the Park and Shop and Bus and Shop programs from $5.00 to $10.00. When a customer buys at least $10.00 worth of goods, the merchant pays the full 50t bus fare or 301 parking fee. He said that the Association will work with the Chamber of Commerce to in- crease merchant participation in the Bus and Shop program. Shive suggested that ads be sold in Iowa City and Coralville buses similarly to CAMBUS. Strait asked Ricketts if the CAMBUS sales people would also be willing to sell ads for Iowa City and Coralville. Ricketts work on welcometheiopportunity. a Strait asked Rickettsotoissin two kwwith Shiveboould n this. Kattchee said that Fisher could serve for Coralville, but that he would need to check on Coralville's rules first. Lundell said that he would ask Bill Dollman from Iowa City Transit to participate as well. 44 gam -"t _Al MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 1986 - 4:30 P.M. PAGE 3 5. AREAS OF TRANSIT SERVICE DUPLICATION Strait asked that transparencies of each bus system be made showing which routes overlap and where this occurs. Davidson said that study has shown there are five areas of overlap, but that there is true duplication only in the North Dubuque corridor. This occurs between Iowa City's North Dubuque route and CAMBUS' Mayflower Interdorm route. describedRicketts and Lundell erves this area. Ricketts said that CAMBUSservice iiswd signedytoegetsstudents downtown to the main campus area in time for classes. Strait asked if this service is used often. Ricketts answered that the buses are usually full, especially at 16 minutes after the hour. 6. OTHER BUSINESS, Rawland asked if there had been a report made by the Transit quality Circle group. Davidson said that a report had been made, and that he would find a copy and submit it to her. Ricketts asked if the proceedings of the Committee were to be telecast on cable TV. Strait said that the details were still being worked on. 7. ADJOURNMENT. The meeting was adjourned at 5:58. Steven J. Van Steenhuyse, Minute Taker M 45 90z I MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1986 - 4:30 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: George Strait, Iowa City; Dave Ricketts, University of Iowa; Anne Rawland, citizen MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Kattchee, Coralville; Dick Myers, Johnson County; Phil Shive, citizen EX -OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT: Roger Fisher, John Lundell, Mike Lankford, John Soukup for Frank DePirro STAFF PRESENT: Jeff Davidson GUESTS PRESENT: Patricia Tekippe, Charles Ruppert, Marjorie Hayden -Strait, Ed Snuffin, B. Small, Anthony Kriz 1. CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Strait called the meeting to order at 4:35 p.m. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Ricketts moved and Rawland seconded that the minutes of the March 6th meeting be approved. The minutes were approved unanimously. 3. AREAS OF TRANSIT SERVICE DUPLICATION - SYSTEM ROUTE MAP OVERLAYS: Davidson presented the transit system route map overlays, and identi- fied the various areas of service overlap. Davidson emphasized that although transit service overlaps in certain areas, the only true area of service duplication is in the North Dubuque corridor. Strait indicated that he was pleased with the visual effect of the route map overlays and would like to have them presented to the City Council. Davidson pointed out that although the overlays indicate service duplication between Iowa City Transit and CAMBUS at the Hawkeye Apart- ments, this is in fact not true because the systems operate at differ- ent times of day in that area. Davidson stated that the intent of transit service for the three systems is distinct: Coralville and Iowa City operate between outlying areas and the CBD. CAMBUS focuses its operations on the core area of the University. Soukup stated that the University Hospital informs people to use CAMBUS if going between North Hospital and downtown, although Iowa City and Coralville also operate in this area. Davidson stated that persons using University Hospitals would be considered affiliated with the University. Hayden -Strait asked what was the impetus for creating the CAMBUS system. Ricketts replied that CAMBUS began in 1971, and was mainly a student movement to have transit service provided on campus. There are several reasons for CAMBUS' existence today, all related to pro- viding circulation within the University. Soukup asked why all Uni- versity students must pay a mandatory fee to CAMBUS although it is used mostly by persons living in dormitories. Ricketts replied by comparing it to the use of property taxes to fund Iowa City Transit: the service is provided for the public good. 46 907X -I 1� MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MARCH 27, 1986 PAGE 2 4. UPDATE ON MARKETING ACTIVITIES: Tekippe outlined the marketing proposals which have been developed by her group. Davidson stated that the revision to the ad which compared automobile and transit costs was good. Strait asked Davidson to coordinate organizing the marketing proposals so that they can be presented to the Iowa City City Council between now and April 28th, along with the route map overlays. Rawland stated that she had spoken with a representative of the Syca- more Mall Merchants and that they are interested in pursuing advertis- ing projects which relate to the use of transit. Lundell added that he also will be speaking with Sycamore Mall representatives. Ricketts stated that although he felt positively about the various marketing proposals, he thought the group should concentrate on targeting tran- sit information to specific groups. Strait stated that Dr. Horowitz of the University Geography Department has some expertise in this area. Fisher stated that Coralville is doing some targeted advertis- ing, and gave the Western Hills area as an example. The group discussed Iowa City Transit putting schedule boards out on the various transit routes similar to what is done at CAMBUS. Davidson stated - that this has been discussed but vandalism is a problem. The group _ discussed the prospect of constructing a route information and sched- ule map area at Old Capitol Center. Ricketts stated that CAMBUS has — requested previously to put transit information on the Pentacrest side of the downtown transit interchange and has been refused permission. Hayden -Strait asked why there were no shelters on the Pentacrest. Davidson outlined the various marketing proposals for which State Transit Assistance funds are being requested. Strait stated that he was satisfied that these projects would coordinate with the projects of the University student marketing group. S. UPDATE ON BUS ADVERTISING ACTIVITIES: Ricketts outlined the discussion of advertising activities which had occurred since the previous meeting, and passed out brochures which _ are used by CAMBUS in their efforts. Ricketts said he felt that the person who sells CAMBUS advertising would be interested in selling for all three transit systems. Strait asked Rawland, together with Shive, to organize the advertising activities of the committee. Davidson stated that Kattchee had already appointed Fisher and Lundell had already appointed Dollman to assist in these efforts. Lundell stated he was very interested in pursuing the sale of advertising on board Iowa City Transit buses. Davidson asked Ricketts if certain ads are refused. Ricketts stated that CAMBUS does limit certain types of advertising, but this would be up to the respective systems. Soukup questioned the advertising efforts devoted towards Park and Shop and Bus and Shop, and stated he felt there was a double standard on the promotion of these programs by the various merchants. 47 -1 =1� =1� MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MARCH 27, 1986 PAGE 3 Hayden -Strait concurred. Davidson also concurred but related that he has observed certain merchants attempting to alleviate this discrep- ancy. Soukup asked if transit advertising could be placed on water bills. Davidson stated that transit information has been placed on water bills, such as advertising fare changes. Tekippe related that City of Iowa City employees receive an employee benefit of subsidized parking, but do not received subsidized transit privileges. 6. OTHER BUSINESS: Davidson requested permission to place the DePirro/Roth proposal to combine the Park and Shop and Bus and Shop programs on the agenda for the next meeting. Davidson stated that the Iowa City City Council has requested the Transit Ad Hoc Committee discuss this matter, and formu- late a recommendation for the committee's final report. Strait stated that the item should be placed on the agenda for the next meeting. Strait asked Davidson if he had responded to the comment by an Iowa City Transit driver that all of the Iowa City Transit buses be painted the same color. Davidson responded that he had discussed the matter with Lundell, and it was intended to paint all of the Iowa City Tran- sit buses to match the new Scania buses using the new in-house paint facility, but that this project has been deferred due to financial constraints of Iowa City Transit. Ricketts added that it is not worth the expense to do a lot of body work and repaint a 15 year old bus. Davidson stated that the Transit Ad Hoc Committee will be in existence until June 6. He requested the Committee members discuss how often to meet. Strait stated he would like the Committee to meet every other week until approximately the second week of May. Strait asked Davidson if he felt all of the pending items could be discussed within _ that time. Davidson replied yes. Strait stated that his intention was for the final report of the Committee to be prepared and discussed by the Committee prior to the June 6 deadline. Strait stated he had been requested to speak at the "Citizens for Transit" meeting on April 9. He added he did not feel it is appropri- ate for him to speak on the activities of the committee until the various issues have been discussed by the City Council. Strait asked Davidson if he would attend and inform the "Citizens for Transit" group of the Transit Ad Hoc Committee's activities. Davidson stated he thought he could attend the meeting. 7. ADJOURNMENT: Strait declared the meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m. Minutes taken by Jeff Davidson. 48 - 94 OL MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 1986 - 4:30 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: George Strait, Dave Ricketts, Anne Rawland, Al Axeen for Michael Kattchee, Phil Shive MEMBERS ABSENT: Dick Myers -- EX -OFFICIO ME14BERS PRESENT: Roger Fisher, John Lundell, Frank DePirro, Don Roth STAFF PRESENT: Jeff Davidson, Cheryl Tworek GUESTS PRESENT: Patricia Tekippe, Marjorie Hayden -Strait, Ed Snuffin, Terry Reynolds 1. CALL TO ORDER: _ Chairperson Strait called the meeting to order at 4:35 p.m. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Ricketts moved and Rawland seconded that the minutes of the March 27th meeting be approved. The minutes were approved unanimously. 3. DISCUSSION OF IOWA CITY TRANSIT MAINTENANCE ORGANIZATION: Davidson presented introductory information concerning the maintenance organization of Iowa City Transit. The procedure at present is that transit maintenance is handled by the City's Equipment Division. This issue has been addressed previously on several occasions and an out- side consultant was brought in (Arrow) to do•a survey of this issue. Discussion began as to whether or not this committee should endorse the existing arrangement or recommend reorganizing transit maintenance under Iowa City Transit. Much of the discussion was between DePirro and Reynolds. DePirro presented his questions of concern on this subject. Major questions concerned the worksheets used for job orders, the "flat rates" used by the Equipment Division and the accountability of the mechanics to the Transit Department. Lundell stated he had some concerns about ac- countability with the existing arrangement, but felt he needs more experience before he would favor reorganization. Lundell and DePirro emphasized that their concerns were with the arrangement of transit maintenance, and that they were not being critical of the Equipment Superintendent. Reynolds stressed the accountability of the existing system and stated that all information is stored on computer and can be re -accessed. Ricketts stated that although he favored the CAMBUS arrangement of transit maintenance under the Transit Manager, he understood the complexity of the ICT issue. Ricketts stated that he felt labor- management problems would continue to exist if transit maintenance were reorganized. 49 94RX `1 -,A, MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE APRIL 10, 1986 PAGE 2 DePirro brought up the issue of chargebacks based on cost per mile. Reynolds stated that the rate is adjusted every six months. Lundell stated this arrangement results in the Transit Department having a six month lag in feeling the effects of cost increases and decreases. DePirro asked why the recent deficit due to the increase in the main- tenance rate was not foreseen by the Transit Manager. Reynolds replied that the Transit Manager receives the appropriate information. Davidson reminded that the recent deficit was both existing and pro- jected, and hopefully actions which have been taken will forestall _ much of the projected deficit. Strait asked Lundell if he thought he would be able to make a recommendation on the organization of transit maintenance in 2 or 3 months. Lundell replied he thought he would. 4. DISCUSSION OF PARK AND SHOP/BUS AND SHOP PROGRAMS: The proposal by DePirro and Don Roth to combine the Park and Shop and Bus and Shop programs with a single merchant reimbursement rate of 401 was discussed. Davidson stated that this matter had been referred to the Iowa City Council, and that the Council had referred it back to the Ad Hoc Committee for a recommendation. Davidson reminded Commit- tee members that in February the Iowa City Council took action to set the merchant reimbursement for the Park and Shop program at 301. The reimbursement for the Bus and Shop program is the full 501 fare. Davidson stated that the issue raised by DePirro and Roth to raise the minimum purchase from $5 to $10 has already been implemented. Davidson stated that the Downtown Association and City had worked out an agreement regarding the employee pilferage problem. Davidson empha- sized that Park and Shop and Bus and Shop are Downtown Association programs and that the City is only involved in billing matters. Shive reiterated that many of the concerns brought up by DePirro and Roth have already been addressed by the Downtown Association. Shive added that decals and stickers are already made available to merchants by the Downtown Association, but it is an individual merchant's decision whether or not to display them. Shive stated he would like to see the Bus and Shop program opened up to the entire City. Shive stated that the Downtown Association is continuing to address the Park and Shop and Bus and Shop programs. Davidson stated that he had not received a clear consensus from the Transit Ad Hoc Committee as to whether or not they endorsed the element of the DePirro Roth proposal to combine the two programs with a single 401 reimbursement rate. Strait asked if Shive would take this matter to the Downtown Association for their opinion. Shive stated that he would and report back at the next Ad Hoc Committee meeting. 5. UPDATE ON ADVERTISING AND MARKETING ACTIVITIES: Davidson stated that transit marketing proposals would be presented to the Iowa City City Council at their informal meeting on April 29. The system route map overlays will also be presented. Tekippe stated that her group was working with Lundell in narrowing down the proposals. 50 902 d;- r MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE APRIL 10, 1986 PAGE 3 Rawland presented information that she, Ricketts and Shive had pre- pared. Ricketts outlined the proposed on -board advertising program which is being expanded from CAMBUS to include Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit. The Committee expressed their support of the onboard advertising proposals. Ricketts stated that CAMBUS does not allow advertisements for alcohol, smoking and political issues; but that this would be left up to the discretion of each system. 6. OTHER BUSINESS: _ None. 7. ADJOURNMENT: - Strait declared the meeting adjourned at 6:13 p.m. Minutes taken by Cheryl Tworek -Al MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 1986 - 4:30 PM IOIJA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Kattchee, Anne Rawland, Dave Ricketts, Phil Shive, George Strait MEMBERS ABSENT: Dick Meyers EX -OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT: Frank DePirro, Roger Fisher, John Lundell STAFF PRESENT: Jeff Davidson, Cheryl Tworek GUESTS PRESENT: Tony Kriz, Kevin O'Malley, Bob Tauber 1. CALL TO ORDER _ Chairperson Strait called the meeting to order at 4:37 PM. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Kattchee moved and Ricketts seconded that the minutes of April 10 be approved. The motion carried unanimously. 3. REPORT FROM PHIL SHIVE ON REACTION OF THE DOWNTOWN Astnr.TATMH Tn Shive reported that the Downtown Association has examined the pro- posal, but is not willing to give up the 30t Park & Shop reimbursement rate. An alternative the Downtown Association is proposing is that each Bus & Shop pass will be stamped by a participating merchant. Each stamp (received with a minimum purchase of $10) will be valued at 309. A recipient of a pass containing one stamp will then make up the 20t difference upon boarding the bus. If the pass contains two stamps, the person will ride free and the City will receive a 10t surplus. Shive added that the Downtown Association intends to commit funds for advertising of this program and eventually hopes to sign up the same number of merchants as are involved in Park & Shop. The Downtown Association is also proposing that the City do the accounting work for the Bus & Shop program as they do for the Park & Shop program. Lundell added that the Sycamore Mall Merchants are interested in participating in Bus & Shop. DePirro stated that bus riders may view this proposal negatively, since what formerly cost $5 now will cost $10.20. Fisher asked if Coralville merchants are eligible. Kattchee stated he would mention the program to the Coralville Chamber of Commerce. Lundell stated that the Downtown Association's proposal will not be favorable to the City unless the advertising of the pro- gram is increased significantly. Strait stated he felt positively about the proposal. 52 g,' r JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee April 24, 1986 - Page 2 4. DISCUSS THE COMMUNITY'S TRANSIT RESPONSIBILITY TO THE DISABLED Davidson introduced this item and stated it was being brought up in light of possible future decisions to cut transit service by the Iowa City City Council. Davidson referred to his informational memo which outlined the existing efforts at providing transit service for persons with disabilities, and further stated that the City Council would not — be violating any regulations regarding transit service for persons with disabilities if they reduced the level of transit service. Lundell stated that by virtue of Iowa City Transit's supplemental taxi _ service contract, they are providing a higher -than -mandated level of "special efforts" transit service. Ricketts stated that the Bionic Bus system serves many off -campus trips. Strait stated he felt the City was maintaining its responsibility regarding transit service for persons with disabilities, and felt the matter could be more usefully discussed if and when a decision to cut transit service is made. _ 5. DISCUSS IOWA CITY TRANSIT FARE POLICY Kevin O'Malley, Acting Director of Finance for the City of Iowa City, was introduced. Davidson outlined the existing Iowa City Transit fare Policy, which essentially attempts to recover 40% of operating ex- penses from the farebox, 40% from general property tax revenue, and 20% from state and federal sources. Davidson referred to his informa- tional memo and cited the table which showed that state and federal revenue sources have never come near the 20% designated in the fare policy. Davidson also stated that the 39% of expenses currently being recovered by Iowa City Transit from the farebox is very high compared with most other Iowa transit systems. Kattchee stated that transit must be balanced with the needs of other City services. Kattchee stated that the City of Coralville sets a general tax amount to be contributed to the transit system and attempts to recover the remain- ing dedicated to transit otherenses from sources. r ro mightachieve voterapprovaledif a portioneoftit was designated for county secondary road improvements. O'Malley outlined the various types of local option taxes available to munici- palities. Part of a local option tax could be dedicated to the tran- sit system, although part must also must also be dedicated to property tax cated etoef. him hatidson transit p property tax ted that the needstor mustfFinance beconsiderediwith the needs of all City departments and the property tax cap set by the City Council. Strait presented a proposal which had been made to him by a citizen to offer discounted bus passes for high school students. Lundell responded negatively to this proposal citing the high rate of vandalism by high school students, disruption to other passengers and bus drivers by high school students, that most high school students ride during peak periods, and that high school students take up as much room as adults (as opposed to children). Rawland also reacted negatively citing that high school students whom are supported by their parents should not receive a discount unless college students do also. Strait concurred with Lundell and Rawland and withdrew his proposal. Strait stated that staff would be considering the transit fare policy in the future. — 53 9A R- `'Al JCCOG Ad Hoc Area Transit Study Committee April 24, 1986 Page 3 6. UPDATE ON ADVERTISING AND MARKETING ACTIVITIES to the wa City CityiCouncilnondApril the A29. Davidson committee's Lundell t have peparedloinforma- tional items for the Council. Davidson stated he would present the presentndell would and service dupl ccaatiol n item, nd Lut d that he andthe University students advertising have been meeting and narrowing down the proposals. Davidson state he would notify Committee members of the time for the meeting on April 29. 7. OTHER_ BUSINESS Ad Hoc Commit - Rowland was a lie t bto consider makicitizen to a gd the Committan item ee a permanent body. tee's pending Strait stated that if this proposal involved additional participation it would be met with aBoardsiandreaction Come ssionsthsually by City staff Council. Davidson stated that City usingr rthe existing Committee oneCCommunity rson.aNeeds aswland ; forum lforutransit discussion items as needed, rather than making the Transit Ad Hoc Committee permanent. There was consensus from the Ad Hoc committee to endorse this recommendation. 8. ADJOURNMENT Chairperson Strait declared the meeting adjourned at 6:02 PM. Minutes taken by Cheryl Tworek. 54 •OROL r - MINUTES JCCOG AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MAY 8, 1986 -- 4:30 P.M. IOWA CITY TRANSIT FACILITY CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Kattchee, Rawland, Ricketts, Shive, Strait MEMBERS ABSENT: Myers EX -OFFICIO MEMBERS PRESENT: DePirro, Fisher, Lundell STAFF PRESENT: Davidson, Tworek GUESTS PRESENT: Marjorie Hayden -Strait, Bob Tauber, Patricia Tekippe 1. Cali to Order. Chairperson Strait called the meeting to order at 4:30 P.M. 2. Approval of Minutes. Rawland moved and Shive seconded that the minutes of April 24 be approved. The motion carried unanimously. 3. Downtown Association Shive presented the proposal as it stands ready to be voted upon by the Downtown Association. Kattchee stated he has talked to represen- tatives from the Coralville Chamber of Commerce, and has indicated to them that they should contact Shive if they are interested in partici- pating in this program. Members of the Committee reemphasized that they are in favor of the new proposal only if publicity for the pro gram is also increased. 4. Discuss benefits of transit which extend beyond users. Davidson referred to his informational memo which was included in the meeting packet. The Committee concurred with the information as presented by Davidson, and made the following additions: Rawland stated that Iowa City Transit provides increased security to the community, as they are frequently the first to report accidents, personal injuries, and crimes. Kattchee stated that apartment owners consider location on a bus line very advantageous. Tekippe stated that the transit system allows a sense of independence for children, eld- erly, and disabled persons, which is a benefit for parents and guardi- ans. DePirro stated that a general benefit of the transit system is that it increases the level of activity downtown which helps promote a feeling of vitality in the CBD. 5. Discuss possible cuts in Iowa City Transit service. Davidson referred to his informational memo contained in the meeting packet. Ricketts asked if the Iowa City City Council considers park- ing and transit as a single transportation system designed to bring people to the central business district. Strait stated that this is a 55 9ox0%. I r MINUTES AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MAY 8, 1986 PAGE 2 problem and he would favor a recommendation in the final report to consider parking and transit as a system. Fisher stated that if spe- cific routes are proposed to be cut, careful consideration must be made of special situations, such as the location of a Systems Unlim- ited home on a particular route. Davidson stated that this was done during the Iowa City Transit Study last fall. Hayden -Strait asked if the final report of the Ad Hoc Transit Committee will address the transit levy. Davidson replied that property tax revenue for the transit system will be addressed. Davidson added that although addi- tional funds can be gained from the transit levy consideration must be given to the total cap on property taxes set by the City Council. If the transit levy goes up, some other City service must go down. Rawland stated that the marketing and advertising proposals should be given a chance to work before cuts are proposed. Rawland added that a wheel tax to gain revenue for transit should be considered with the suggestion made by DePirro that part of it be dedicated to secondary road improvements to gain voter approval. Kattchee stated that in Coralville they determine how much transit is worth compared to other City services and assign an amount of property, tax revenue based on that. Lundell stated he would like to have the following recommenda- tions considered: (1) Continue the parking system subsidy of transit one more year into FY88, (2) that not starting tripper service in the fall be considered as a service reduction option, (3) that the market- ing and advertising proposals be implemented and given a chance to work, and (4) that transit maintenance be reorganized under the Tran- sit Division. DePirro stated that he would hate to see service cuts made to save $45,000 when other things can be done to save this amount of money. Davidson asked DePirro if he would submit his ideas in writing. 6. other Business Strait presented a letter from Regency Mobile Home rarK Concer„ iy their need for transit service. Transit service to this area is not feasible since it is outside of the city limits. Davidson stated he will prepare the final report of Committee proceed- ings between May 12 and May 22. The draft reports will be mailed out on May 22. Committee discussion of the draft is set for 3:30 P.M. May 27 at the Iowa City Transit Facility. Davidson stated that if persons were unable to attend this meeting, they should submit their comments in writing. Tekippe presented the final report of the marketing proposals assem- bleby the niverit ms toyattendstudents. Straitall meetings for hehanked hem for durat on hofrtheput Ad Hoc Committee. Lundell stated that an advertising program has been worked out with KXIC and K -101 d01. radio mations fomeoutside retubus . advertising. Iowa City Transitwill I r� -I MINUTES AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MAY 8, 1986 PAGE 3 Lundell presented a proposal for consideration by the Committee, that the Committee endorse retrofitting power steering on two Iowa City Transit buses. He stated that this matter has been brought to the attention of the Iowa City City Council several times and they have thus far refused to allocate the $5,000 needed. The consensus of the Committee was that this is not an appropriate matter for the Ad Hoc Committee to endorse, and that it should be pursued as a private matter between Iowa City Transit and the City Council. Hayden -Strait presented a letter from the group Citizens for Transit, thanking the Transit Ad Hoc Committee for their efforts. 7. Rawland moved and Shive seconded the meeting be adjourned. The meet- ing was adjourned at 5:53 P.M. Minutes taken by Cheryl Tworek. 57 9dR 02. iM a MINUTES AD HOC AREA TRANSIT STUDY COMMITTEE MAY 8, 1986 PAGE 3 Lundell presented a proposal for consideration by the Committee, that the Committee endorse retrofitting power steering on two Iowa City Transit buses. He stated that this matter has been brought to the attention of the Iowa City City Council several times and they have thus far refused to allocate the $5,000 needed. The consensus of the Committee was that this is not an appropriate matter for the Ad Hoc Committee to endorse, and that it should be pursued as a private matter between Iowa City Transit and the City Council. Hayden -Strait presented a letter from the group Citizens for Transit, thanking the Transit Ad Hoc Committee for their efforts. 7. Rawland moved and Shive seconded the meeting be adjourned. The meet- ing was adjourned at 5:53 P.M. Minutes taken by Cheryl Tworek. 57 9dR 02. r