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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986-08-12 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES HOUSING APPEALS BOARD TUESDAY, JULY 8, 1986 - 8:30 A.M. IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: Ruth Dawson, Benjamin Moore, Tom Newton, Mary Joan Streb, Gary Watts MEMBERS ABSENT: James Barfuss STAFF PRESENT: David Brown, Steve Faga, Ron O'Neil j OTHERS PRESENT: Ernest Nicholas i CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES i Chairperson Watts called the meeting to order at 8:30m.ove' approve the minutes of the June 10, 1986, meeting. Streb seconded mthedmo- tion. The motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION OF THE APPEAL OF CAROL THOMPSON AND ERNEST NICHOLAS 314 SOUTH Ernest Nicholas was sworn in. Faga reported that during a licensing inspec tion of the dwelling unit, he had found a number of windows in the dining room and living room area held open by a stick. He cited five windows in violation of Section 17-7.A. (4) (windows and hardware). According to record in the property file, Faga found that one window (upstairs) had been record previ- ously granted a variance. He reminded the board that one of the reasons for the requirement was to maintain adequate natural ventilation within a unit. i Nicholas explained that he had tried a couple ways to make the windows stay open, but had run into problems with every method. First, he tried to in- stall gull wings (spring-loaded clips) but the window frames would not accept Finally,Thenh de foundiaered gadg to at 'anbut ant antique storetl andkit would workwindows he had only found one so far and it cost ;10. To have the windows taken out, the casings removed and an economical plastic slide put in the window would cost $45-g0 per window. The current tenant, who has been there six years, is happy to use a stick to keep the windows open. Streb asked how old the house was. Nicholas replied that it was built in 1900 and had an addition put on in about 1960. Nicholas purchased the home in 1981. It was noted that small expandable screens would hold the window up and provide ventilation. Nicholas had been told on a previous occasion that such screens were not allowed. O'Neil later clarified that they were al- lowed, but had been allowed in lieu of other screens, not in lieu of a mecha- nism to hold the window open. Brown noted that the Code required windows to be maintained in a good and functional condition. Streb moved to grant a variance. Watts thought that would be okay as long as the screens were used, but did not second the motion as originally stated. Brown asked if the windows in question would all accept expandable screens. Nicholas clarified that they would, Brown then asked Faga if he were inspecting the property and the expandable screens were in place, would it be cited as a violation. 1309 fi PRECEDING DOCUMENT MINUTES HOUSING APPEALS BOARD TUESDAY, JULY 8, 1986 - 8:30 A.M. IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: Ruth Dawson, Benjamin Moore, Tom Newton, Mary Joan Streb, Gary Watts MEMBERS ABSENT: James Barfuss i STAFF PRESENT: David Brown, Steve Faga, Ron O'Neil i OTHERS PRESENT: Ernest Nicholas i CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES Chairperson Watts called the meeting to order at 8:30 p.m. Newton moved to approve the minutes of the June 10, 1986, meeting. Streb seconded the mo. tion. The motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION OF THE APPEAL OF CAROL THOMPSON AND ERNEST NICHOLAS 314 SOUTH Ernest Nicholas was sworn in. Faga reported that during a licensing inspec- tion of the dwelling unit, he had found a number of windows in the dining room and living room area held open by a stick. He cited five windows in violation of Section 17-7.A.(4) (windows and hardware). According to record in the property file, Faga found that one window (upstairs) had been previ- ously granted a variance. He reminded the board that one of the reasons for the requirement was to maintain adequate natural ventilation within a unit. Nicholas explained that he had tried a couple ways to make the windows stay open, but had run into problems with every method. First, he tried to in- stall gull wings (spring-loaded clips) but the window frames would not accept them. Then he considered bolts, but they would weaken the oak windows. Finally, he had found a gadget at an antique store, and it would work, but he had only found one so far and it cost $10. To have the windows taken out, the casinggs removed and an economical plastic slide put in the window would cost $45-60 per window. The current tenant, who has been there six years, is happy to use a stick to keep the windows open, Streb asked how old the house was. Nicholas replied that it was built in 1900 and had an addition put on in about 1960. Nicholas purchased the home in 1981. It was noted that small expandable screens would hold the window up and provide ventilation. Nicholas had been told on a previous occasion that such screens were not allowed. O'Neil later clarified that they were al- lowed, but had been allowed in lieu of other screens, not in lieu of a mecha- nism to hold the window open. Brown noted that the Code required windows to be maintained in a good and functional condition. Streb moved to grant a variance. Watts thought that would be okay as long as the screens were used, but windowin is oquestion would all t second the oaccept n as rexpandablesscreens. Brown asked Nicholas clarified that they would. Brown then asked Faga if he were inspecting the property and the expandable screens were in place, would it be cited as a violation. /309 Housing Appeals Board July 8, 1986 Page 2 Faga said he would have to check whether the windows had a natural stop of not. Moore asked about using bolts. Nicholas said that it would damage the window structure. Moore replied that three or four sizes of bolts were available for this purpose; Nicholas had only been shown one size at the hardware store. Faga asked if the expandable screens would cover 45% of the window area. Nicholas replied that 100% of the outside was covered with a screen, and showed the Board with his hands how big the expandable screens were. Streb moved to grant a variance. Dawson seconded. The motion carried 3-1-1. DISCUSSION OF THE AMENDMENT TO THE BYLAWS With the proper number of members in attendance to decide on a change in the by-laws (four) the Board made a decision on the proposed by-law change. (See attached copy.) Dawson moved to accept the amendment to the by-laws clarify- ing the use of alternates. Newton seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Watts moved to adjourn. Streb seconded. The meeting adjourned by acclama- tion at 9:50 a.m. Minutes submitted by Christine Mullen. ary Watts,Chairperson fO.1 �.�•-sl Ron O'Neil, Appeals Board Secretary /30% I I I BYLAWS - HOUSING APPEALS BOARD 3. The Appeals Board shall meet at the call of the Chairperson, or when requested by the Housing Inspector. II. The City Council shall appoint membership to the Housing Appeals Board consisting of five (5) members and two (2) alternates who are members of the Housing Commission, none of whom are employees of the City. The term of office of each member of the Housing Appeals Board shall be for three (3) years. The Chairperson of the Appeals Board shall be elected by a majority of the entire regular membership at the first meeting in May of each calendar year, to serve for a term of one calendar year. A Vice -Chairperson shall be elected in the same manner at the same time for a term of one calendar year. III. The Chairperson of the Appeals Board shall preside at all meetings, shall conduct all hearings, and exercise and perform such other powers and duties as may be from time to time assigned to him or her by the Appeals Board or prescribed by the bylaws. In presiding at meetings and hearings, the Chairperson shall rule on procedure and on order of presentation. IV. A quorum of the Appeals Board shall be any three (3) members. Frequent absences of a member may result in a recommendation to the City Council that a new member be appointed. I i V. The Board shall be the judge of the qualifications of persons appearing as expert witnesses and shall be empowered to refuse to receive the testimony of any purported expert not so qualified. V1. In the absence or the disability of the Chairperson, the Vice - Chairperson shall perform all the duties of the Chairperson and when so acting shall have all the powers of, and be subject to all the restrictions upon, the Chairperson. V11. In the absence of both the Chairperson and the Vice -Chairperson of the Board of Appeals, a Chairperson pro tempore shall be elected from among those regular members present by a majority vote of all the Board members present. Vill. Should any member have knowledge of any facts which may constitute a conflict of interest in his/her consideration of any appeal, he/she shall forthwith notify the Secretary, and the Chairperson, of said fact. IX. The City Manager shall designate a secretary to the Board, who shall keep, or cause to be kept, minutes of the proceedings of the Appeals Board and shall prepare an agenda of each meeting /307 I which shall be furnished to members, not later than 24 hours, prior to the actual hour of the meeting. The Secretary shall, in addition, be custodian of the records of the Appeals Board and shall, upon the filing of an appealfurnish each Board Member with a copy of the Notice of Violation pertaining to the appeal and a copy of the letter of appeal. X. Appeals from decisions of the Housing Inspector shall i writing and shall state the particular sebe in ction of the ordinance involved and a brief statement of grounds n which such appeal is taken. upo X1. Appeals will be heard at meetings called pursuant to law by the Presiding officer or by a majority of the nembers'of the B Hearings shall be scheduled within sixty oard.(60)f days of the receipt of a written appeal, Chair erson contiunless both the appellant and the . P agree to a continuance. � x11. The decision of the Appeals Board on an a but shall not constitute a waiver of nor affectal shall be final, whatever rights the appealant may have in judicial �Pro any Proceedings.' x111. Decisions rendered by the Board shall be in writing and shall state the reason or reasons for the decision. i XIV. The Appeals Board shall not hold executive sessions, unless ! authorized by law. xV. Policy Changes or By -taw changes will be acted uponat the meeting following the meeting at which open discussion was conducted on the specific changes. These Bylaws may be amended by a vote of four of the regular members of the Appeals Board subject to the approval of the City Council. i I, 0 �- I I es II, The City Council shall appoint membership to the Housing consisting of five (5) regular members and two (2) alternat are members of the Housing Commission, none of whom are emp City. An alternate member may sit on the Appeals Board to 1 s Board ers who 07 the The term of the office of each member of the Housing Appeals Board shall be for three (3) years. The Chairperson of the Appeals Board shall be elected by a majority of the entire regular membership at the first meeting, in May of each calen- dar year, to serve for a term of one calendar year. A Vice -Chairperson shall be elected in the same manner at the same time for a term of one calendar year. a �,(;Z) Mayor's Youth Employment Program Minutes Board of Directors Meeting July 16, 1986 Board Members Present: Marsha La Follette, Bob Miller, Jan Liggett Staff Present: Peg McElroy, Teresa Win I. Call to Order: Peg McElroy called the meeting to order at 4:04 p.m. II. Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the May 21 and June 25, 1986, meeting were reviewed by the board. Approval deferred to the next meeting due to lack of quorum. III. Financial Report - May, 19861 The financial report was reviewed by the board with approval deferred to the next meeting. The June financial report Is delayed due to the closeout of fiscal year 1986. IV. Additional Agenda Items Peg invited board members to the ceremony to be held Friday, July 25, at Napoleon Park to celebrate the near completion of the restroom project there. It will take place at 9:00 with refreshments to be served. VI.New Business I IYC Summer Evaluation Peg reported that the IYC summer project evaluation has been received from the state. State monitor Duane Leitch completed the evaluation which Includes a point total that will be referred to when determining eligibility for future grants. The project received ratings of "meets standards" or •exceeds standards" in all categories. Duane commented that the Napoleon Park project Is an excellent project for learning construction trade skills and that there Is a good working relationship with city and university. Transition Prooram Peg reported on the development of the Coalition of Placement Service Agencies. She is currently working with 9 students who are high school graduates. They are being assisted In Job placement or furthering their education. The programming costs are being paid by purchase of service agreements with the Department of Human Services. Completion of Board Term - Ted Halm With the expiration of his term, Ted Halm has decided to step down from the MYEP board. He will receive a Certificate of Appreciation for his service on the board. Reslonatlon of Board Member Keith Kafer Keith Kafer will also be leaving the board after serving since MYEP's Inception In 1968. He has submitted his resignation and will be moving to Florida. 1310 I Board Elections - September The elections of president, vice president, and secretary/ treasurer will be held at the next meeting in September. VII. Old Business FY 87 Budget Approval Copies of the additions to the original budget were given to the board. Approval is deferred until the next meeting. Case Report Peg reported the results of working with one of her clients. Iowa Youth Corps - Summer Program Report Peg Informed the board that the summer program will end July 25. The Riverfront Commission and Softball Complex protects are going well. The Napoleon Park project was slowed at the start by the rain, but tremendous progress has been made. The enrollees are doing a great Job. The Initial plumbing has been Installed. Some concern was expressed during last weekend's tour of parks facilities by the Parks and Recreation Commission about the safety and appearance of the building. On Monday the building was Inspected and deemed to be j structurally sound. The City will "fibre coat" the Interior and i exterior of the building before painting to give It a better appearance. The meeting adjourned at 4120. i Please note that there will not be a board meeting In August. The next meeting will be held on September 17, 1986. If you have a conflict with j that date, please call the office. i 1 i Joan ehle, Sec eta urer Teresa Win, Secretary ! /3/0 ro1 MINUTES HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION JUNE 23, 1986 SENIOR CENTER CLASSROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Bergen, Reed, Hawkins, Mims, Belle MEMBERS ABSENT: Weilbrenner, Farrant, Smithart STAFF PRESENT: Alexander RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: None. RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER OR STAFF: None. SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION. 1. The meeting was called to order at 7:09 p.m. by Chairperson Reed. 2. Bergen moved to approve the minutes of May 19, 1986, and Mims seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 3. In conciliation: a. H/PAD, 5-24-8501. The public hearing has been set for Friday, July 18, 1986, commencing at 9 a.m. in Meeting Room A in the Iowa City Recreation Center. b. EIS 8 NO, 11-14-8501. The team made a probable cause final determi- nation and will not proceed to conciliate. c. E/D, 1-7-8402. The team made a no probable cause final determinati- on. d. E/D, 4-29-8503. The team will consider speaking with the employer's Personnel Manager as a way of receiving additional information on the Complainant's performance. e. E/D, 10-18-8403. The team continues to review the file and sees it similar to the above case (d.) except Legal made a no probable cause recommendation on the above case and a probable cause recommendation on this case. f. E/S0, 7-16-8502. The team is scheduled to met Tuesday, June 24 at 4:00 p.m. with the Complainant. g. H/D, 10-22-8501. The team has made a probable cause final determi- nation. Conciliation will proceed. 1311 01 I T N Human Rights Commission June 23, 1986 Page 2 h. Retaliation 4-24-8501 and 4-30-8502. The team has made a no prob- able cause determination. i. E/R, 6-11-8502. The team made a no probable cause determination. 4. In Legal: There are three cases in legal. 5. Cases Opened: One case has been opened in the area of employment on the basis of race. 6. Cases to assign: a. E/R, 10-31-8501. Hawkins; Smithart. b. E/S, 8-16-8501. c. E/S 3 A, 6-3-8501'. 7. Community Education: Three Human Rights Commission cable Tv shows are scheduled. June 24 - Deafinitely Worth Watching: A Perspective on Iowa City's Deaf Cammu� July 2 - A show on the Latino and Chicano community in Iowa City. July 16 - A show on South Africa: Then in the fall a show on interracial relationships. 8. Old Business: a. Ordinance Revisions - No committee report'. b.' Local beauty salon's advertising - A second letter has been sent to the local beauty salon, again advising them of their ad .being in non-compliance with the city's non-discrimination ordinance. c. Public hearing - The date for the public hearing has been set as indicated on 3(a) above. The hearing officer is Jewel Elijah Brown, supervisor of investigators at the Des Moines Human Rights Commis- sion. 1311 I '-r Human Rights Commission June 23, 1986 Page 3 9. New Business: a. Reading material - No discussion. b. Housing Complaint - Described in the staff report, Alexander was directed to call the landlord, hear their side of the story and educate them on their obligations to abide by the City's non-dis- crimination ordinance. Alexander will then follow-up with a let- ter. c. Help wanted ad - Alexander will send a letter to the local newspaper concerning the help wanted ad which stated a preference for *young ladies.• d. Dinner with Cedar Rapids and Iowa Civil Rights Commissioners - Reed, Bergan and Alexander will attend. e. Formation of conciliation teams - Starting with the three cases that need to be assigned, three "permanent' conciliation teams will be formed: Teams A, B and C. Commissioners will remain on the same team for six months, each team will decide on a date, time and place to meet at least once per month and will handle conciliation busi- ness during that time. This arrangement should make it easier for teams to get together and either make final determinations or to conciliate. 10. Staff Report - Staff report was discussed. 11. Slide show on Big Mountain - In 1974 the U.S. Congress and. then Presi- dent Gerald Ford made public law 93-531 the law of the land. It author- ized the forest relocation of more than 10,000 Hopi and Dine' (Navajo) people from an area known as Big Mountain in northern Arizona. The act was passed to resolve a reported 'range war' raging between Navajo and Hopi. Subsequent investigation has shown traditional Hopis and Navajos do not want to relocate, however, the pro development Hopi Tribal Coun- cil.(which gains one million acres under the Act) is working in concert with utility companies seeking access to the vast deposits of uranium, coal and natural gases which lie beneath the surface of the area. Those who resist relocation feel that since the traditional Dine' are threat- ened with relocating, that the threat of loosing Dine' identity for the entire Navajo nation is real and that the resulting loss of the culture, with its complex net of social relationships, its knowledge of nature and its philosophical reflections on the relationship of humans to the rest of nature, would be an unforgivable. and irreversible crime against humanity and against generations to come. Discussion followed viewing of the slide show. Bergen moved that Alexander contact the local Big Mountain support group for guidance on writing a letter on resistance to relocation to be approved at the Commission's July meeting and them forwarded to the City Council for their review. Belle seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. /3 // -I T Human Rights Commission June 23, 1986 Page 4 12. The meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m. Minutes taken by Phyllis Alexander. st=; i F I`I I MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JULY 8, 1986, 9:00 A.M. IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY MEMBERS PRESENT: Dawson, Streb, B. Moore, Watts, Newton and Barfuss MEMBERS ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Milkman, Seydel and Henderson MEETING TO ORDER: There being a quorum present, the meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Chairperson Watts. MINUTES: Minutes of the June 10, 1986, meeting were approved 5-0 on a motion by Moore, seconded by Dawson. Streb left the meeting at 9:05 a.m. RENTAL REHABILITATION PROGRAM: Milkman presented information regarding allocation of 1986 funds in the amount of $33,000 and stated that the Rental Rehabilitation Program would continue as it had in the past. She indicated that with this allocation, the Housing Authority could apply for an additional six vouchers. Discussion ensued regarding the advisability of applying for these six vouchers at this time. The necessity of maintaining a separate accounting system for each voucher project allocation was seen as a disadvantage when the allocation was for so few vouchers. Milkman discussed the simplification of application for lower cost rehabilitation programs. COORDINATOR'S REPORT: Section 8 Update - Seydel stated that the Housing Assistance Payment for July 1 totalled $92,552.00 paid on 440 certificates and 10 vouchers. Eleven applications were submitted for signature. Seydel stated that an Informal Hearing Panel had met on June 11 and he informed Commission of their decision. He indicated that he intends to contest the directive from the Department of Housing and Urban Development regarding the consi- deration of income. Public Housing Update Seydel stated that there was one turnover in the Public Housing program in June and the unit has been rented. He discussed changes in regulations regarding Shared Housing as well as the allowance of small business ventures in the Assisted Housing program. Seydel informed the Commission of funding availability for 202 money as well as for Public Housing and recommended that the PHA not apply for additional units of Public Housing at this time. Computer Update - Seydel stated that the PHA had ordered its computer system on July 3 and it is expected that the equipment will arrive the first week of August. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: It was noted that John Moore had resigned from the Commission effective June 30, 1986, and that this vacancy would be advertised. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 a.m. Approved: Gary Watts Chairperson /3/07. MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1986 - 7:30 P.M. IOWA CITY RECREATION CENTER - ROOM B MEMBERS PRESENT: Champion, Horowitz, Nowysz, VanderWoude, Wagner MEMBERS ABSENT: Kern, Sierk STAFF PRESENT: Moen, Ramsdell GUESTS PRESENT: Susan Nathan, Beth Collison, Kevin Botwright CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Nowysz called the meeting to order at 7:41 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: The minutes of the June 18, 1986, meeting were amended with the following corrections: On page 1, paragraph three was clarified. On page 2, paragraph one, the word "circles" in the last sentence was replaced with "red dots." Also on page 2, the last sentence of paragraph two was deleted. On page 3, para- graph three, sentence four, the phrase "The League of Women Voters could sponsor such a meeting" was changed to read "The League of Women Voters might be approached to sponsor such a meeting." On page 5, paragraph four, sentence one, "had read" was replaced by "had heard presented." Wagner moved that the minutes of the June 18, 1986, meeting be approved as amended. Horowitz seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: Susan Nathan discussed the homes tour which is tentatively scheduled for October 12. She pointed out that this is Homecoming weekend and that perhaps the date should be changed. Champion commented that having the tour during Homecoming might actually be beneficial since many people from out of town would be visiting. Nathan said that that was possible, but that last year the homeowners involved did not want both events scheduled for the same weekend. She also mentioned that she wasn't sure that out of town visitors would be interested in attending the tour but that it was something to consider since it was not necessary to decide on a definite date until the end of July. Nowysz suggested that the date be discussed with the owners of the homes selected for the tour before a final decision was made. She also informed the Commission that the homes selection committee had met and had toured the Means, Foster, and Baker homes and that it would tour the various homes on the list that the Committee had compiled. VanderWoude mentioned that the owner of a house being renovated on Bowery Street was receptive to the idea of having his home be part of the tour. Nowysz commented that that house would be good to include as an example for realtors because it had been on the market for a long time. Champion stated that she was open to having her house toured as well, and added that she favored conducting the tour during Homecoming because many /3/3 I MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1936 - 7:30 P.M. PAGE 2 alumni and previous Iowa City residents return and enjoy seeing and hear- ing about the city. Other suggestions were made for possible houses to include on the tour. Nathan also inquired as to the status of the school district building located on Kirkwood Drive. Nowysz responded that a year ago she had heard of plans to renovate it and convert it into a children's museum, but that recently she was unaware of what was to be done with the building. Nathan stated that the Johnson County Historical Society would like to be in- volved in the project and Nowysz said that she would inquire about it. DISCUSSION OF THE COMMISSION'S FY86 ANNUAL REPORT: Moen referred to the copies of the FY85 Annual Report. Nowysz suggested that the Commission first review the 1986 activities before discussing those planned for 1987. Horowitz raised her concern that the Commission branch out of Iowa City and somehow influence surrounding areas such as North Liberty. Nowysz responded that some interest had been shown by the Board of Supervisors along these lines, but that there had not been time to pursue the idea. She added that once certified local government status was achieved, there would be more incentive to pursue the matter. Horowitz mentioned that she would like the Commission to be able to comment on the activities of the Board of Supervisors as well as offer suggestions to them. Nathan pointed out that the Johnson County Historical Society had a sense of autonomy and concentrated on projects in Coralville and the larger Johnson County area. She stated that she had attended a presentation on historic preservation in North Liberty which demonstrated that the Society does reach out to surrounding areas of Iowa City. She commented that influence from the Commission could be positive but that it was important to recognize the autonomy of the Historical Society. Horowitz said that she was thinking especially about the discussions of the Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee concerning the entrance -ways into the city, many of which are located outside of the city limits and which may have features of historic interest. Nathan responded that she could present this subject to the Historical Society and Horowitz agreed that input about the en- tranceways from the Society would be helpful. Nowysz suggested that time be dedicated soon to a discussion of the entrance -ways with the Johnson County Historical Society. Horowitz added that at that time the two organizations could also comprise a list of all the possible means of generating funds, including achieving certified local government status. After reviewing the activities planned for and accomplished in 1986, discussion centered on the prioritized list of objectives and activities planned for fiscal year 1987. The Commission came to agreement that the objectives for fiscal year 1987 include the following: Continue to research and nominate potential local historic districts. /3/3 � 1 I MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1986 - 7:30 P.M. PAGE 3 2. Continue work on achieving certified local government status in order to undertake activities which may include: a. Developing the Historic Preservation Resource Center, and b. Planning a public relations strategy for the eventual receipt of the status. 3. Implement a historic preservation awareness program which may include: a. Developing a speakers bureau. b. Producing brochures and pamphlets and using other means of commu- nication to inform the public about local historic districts, preservation activities, and preservation requirements and guide- 1ines. c. Preparing exhibits and a free-standing display of local historic structures or projects. d. Developing a tour of local historic homes and buildings. e. Investigating the possibility of recording and making use of the ' oral histories of elderly citizens in the community. 4. Investigate funding and investment alternatives, as well as tax abate- ment laws, available to encourage the rehabilitation and restoration of historic buildings. 5. Prepare for the 1986 Preservation Awards Program and for Preservation I Week activities. Establish historic litation 6. procedures for activities iundertaken eineIowauiitynhistoric districts and have these made available to the public. 7. Host appropriate functions for purposes of informing various sectors of the public as to the intentions and functions of the Historic Preservation Commission. Several activities related to these objectives were also mentioned and discussed. Horowitz moved to adopt the activities planned for fiscal year 1987 and Vanderwoude seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. REVIEW DRAFT OF THE CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT APPLICATION: Moen reported that information needed for the application for certified local government status was personal statements from the Commission mem- bers outlining their qualifications for serving on the Commission. She distributed an abbreviated list of the requirements for obtaining CLG status as well as the original applications that the members had submitted MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1986 - 7:30 P.M. PAGE 4 prior to selection as Commission representatives. Moen requested that each person make appropriate revisions and additions to these applications and that they be returned to her by July 16. i In reference to the article which had been distributed about activities undertaken by other communities with certified local government status, Horowitz pointed out that having this status may generate other nonan- exampleeofasuchnaneactivitys for l,eshe hCORnadsgiven thought totsponso sponsoring that, a stage Production about comment d that the architecture objectives be presented in the public schools. not end with the application jectives of achieving CLG status should thatonce it achieved, the Commission should de eclop aastrategybutther for publicizing it, was n T11.n _.. en d to the ns sug- gested thateea h emberibetcapableoof answering these questionroblem s in and to the North Side Residential Historic District and that perhaps, in so doing, each member would feel better able to develop a strategy. At this was time, due to conflicts with the next meeting scheduled for August 13, it decided any iideasabout Possiblehstrategies e next the turn duto in to herust 6.Mby Julyu30tso that she could have copies ready to distribute for the next meeting. Nowysz remarked that she had reviewed the alterations proposed and that they seemed reasonable when she had looked at the building. Moen com- mented that the changes to the roof that were proposed would completely alter the appearance of the structure and added that the rehabilitation r000 isoeth tite hasmay beaid aused ase it els. products available to repair a flat Horowitz mentioned that the Conmission was not qualified to say anything about to a the roof and Nowysz agreed that there was not enough information to whethalso er it was ia historically sigsion since the nific ntht oftfeature ofhe roof wasthekstructure.nown as as She paired XprSheesaidrth that feltabout th t the alterationserjustlfted but the orch carried to tomPletion. cwe that she would like more information as to how these alterations would be Vanderwoude expressed his satisfaction that energy was being put into pleased ithatnthey intendedstructure to retain the zalso stutco. commented said thashe would like to recommend that, since no decision could be made batesd on the information provided, the applicant use some of the funds to hire an ar- chitectural consultant. 1313 MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 91 1986 - 7;30 P.M. PAGE 5 Horowitz moved to recommend that the Rental Rehabilitation Officer suggest that the guidance given to the owners include consultation with an archi- tect versed in historic restoration. Champion seconded the motion. VanderWoude pointed out that asking the applicants to consult with yet another expert after they have probably already consulted with several could be discouraging and would only prolong the process for restoring the structure. Wagner asked if a visual plan had been submitted with the application and Moen explained that, since there were several owners involved, there probably was not consensus on the plan at this time but that, if funding were made available, the owners may come to agreement on a plan. Champion stated that she felt it was reasonable to request that the appl{cants consult another expert because they were asking for govern- ment money to fund the project. Nowysz agreed that since public funds would be used, the project should be done correctly and she further stated that presently there were not enough guidelines presented in the applica- tion to successfully complete the project. Wagner inquired as to the influence of the Commission's recommendation on the final decision and Moen responded that the State Office of Historic Preservation before tthe Commission oagain. nsier S e addedcthat theliatiandr convent dation as well as the information contained in the discussion would be sent to the Rental Rehabilitation Officer. Horowitz withdrew the original motion that she had made and Champion withdrew her second to that motion. Horowitz moved that, due to the lack of information provided by the appli- cant, the Commission recommend that the Rental Rehabilitation Officer request that the owners spend part of their funding for hiring an archi- tectural consultant versed in historic restoration in order to ensure that the project be completed with integrity. Champion seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Horowitz also requested that the positive convents about retaining the stucco as well as the misgivings about the proposed alterations to the roof be passed along to the Rental Rehabilita- tion Officer with the reconnendation. Moen distributed a letter in which the owner of property at 942 Iowa Avenue requested rehabilitation assistance to replace the several types of siding currently on the house with vinyl siding. She explained that the Rehabilitation staff had examined the house and felt that the request was Justified since it was rental property and since, if the siding were replaced with wooden clapboard, it would have to be painted every seven years which consequently would increase the rent. Moen mentioned that the Acting City Manager wanted to know the Commission's opinion of the argu- ments for using vinyl siding before he signed the letter. She said that the State Office of Historic Preservation was reluctant to approve the use of vinyl siding because the structure had historic significance since it was one of the first Black sororities in the State. She added that since the owner had become aware of the history of the property, she had devel- /3 /3 MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JULY 91 1986 - 7:30 P.M. PAGE 6 I oped an interest in achieving National Historic Register status for the building. Moen stated that the structure meets all the requirements for rental rehabilitation assistance. VanderWoude said that he was not opposed to the alterations as described. Moen pointed out that vinyl siding would be placed only on those facades on which wooden clapboad had originally been, placed and that the owner was making a genuine attempt to restore the building to its original design. She also noted that without Federal funds, the owner could do whatever she pleased with the building. Horowitz commented that she would like to promote replacing the siding in order to keep the building viable but expressed her hesitancy in approving the use of vinyl siding due to uncertainty about the costs and returns of the initial investment. Nowysz at 10:00 a.mat on JulyCommission beforehold makingoutside officialction of the recomnendati n. The members agreed. COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS: Nowysz announced that Old Brick had been sold and that the Urban Environ- ment Ad Hoc Committee bus tour would be held at 10:00 a.m. on July 19. She also reported that she had spoken with Mr. Louis about his home located behind St. Patrick's Church and had discovered that his brother had sold i the house. She said that she could speak with the new owners and recom- mend to them that, if they intended to use the house for rental property, they apply for rehabilitation money after one year. Moen showed the plan for the Paul -Helen Building, which differs from the j original plans. She pointed out that the State Office felt the original plan gave the false impression that the side of the building was, in fact, the front facade. The State Office required that the plans be revised to make the west facade of the building resemble the sides of other older buildings. The meeting adjourned at 10:08 by acclamation. Minutes submitted by Lee Ramsdell. /3/3 47 I MINUTES LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES THURSDAY, JULY 24, 1986 - 4:00 P.M. ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM PRESENT: Buchanan, Cavitt, Cox, Gelman, Grimes, Willis ABSENT: Drum, Lyman, Pegnetter i STAFF: Eggers, Jehle, Craig, Tiffany, Forsythe The meeting was called to order at 4:05 p.m. by President Riley Grimes. The minutes of the June 26 meeting and the June disbursements were approved. The Director asked that two items be added to the agenda under new business: I 1) to approve a contract with the East Central Regional Library to provide back-up reference service for area libraries when the Cedar Rapids Public Library has emergency closings and 2) to officially approve -the appointment of Deborah Burger to the Art Advisory Committee. The Director reported an the following: 1. A candidate is needed to run for the opening this fall on the East Cen- tral Regional Library Board of Directors to represent Johnson, Iowa, and Cedar Counties. Names should be given to Nicky Stanke, ECRL Administra- tor. The election is on the ballot this fall. 2. The lease -purchase agreement has been worked out between the Legal De- partments of Iowa City and New England Merchants Leasing. It is on the City Council's agenda for adoption on Tuesday, July 29. 3. The installation of the balance of the new equipment uh the lease -purchase equipment agreement has beePstponeddruntilfall odue to a delay in the CLSI software needed to interface with the new hard- ware. ; 4. The new City Manager will be attending the Library all -staff meeting on August 22. 5. The state association of larger public library directors (IUPLA) is working on legislation to create and fund a state-wide library card. This legislation would pay public libraries a set amount for each item circulated to a non-resident borrower who had a valid library card from a participating library. Residents of jurisdictions which are not cur- rently supporting library service would not be eligible. This is one way to begin state aid to public libraries. To be politically viable in Iowa, such a program needs to be voluntary and to build on existing strong local tax support for public libraries. 6. A plan for policies to be reviewed by the Board in the coming year needs to be made at the August meeting. /3/ff 'r 1 Library Board of Trustees July 24, 1986 Page 2 Tomorrow is the last working day for Assistant Director Connie Tiffany. She has resigned to assume directorship of the Glendora, California, Public library on August 11. Tiffany has been with the library for ten years and was named the first assistant director in 1981. She has made a lasting mark on ICPL through' her development and management of the li- brary's outstanding audio visual services, her key participation in the development of the cable TV franchise and subsequent cable activities, her assistance in the planning, design and construction of the new build- ing and her work with long-range planning, goal setting and reorganiza- tion. Her published articles about the library brought national attention to ICPL in several library professional journals. Hundreds of library prohas accomplished benefited plishedmu hdinrthe om elast eten as ayears nd eand vher contri uti nibise ener. The ra major one. Susan Craig has been named the new Assistant Director and we will conduct a national search for a new Technical Services Coordinator. The organ- izational chart and lines of authority will be changed somewhat. Craig will be directly responsible for the Circulation Department and all other coordinators except Community Services will report to her. Former Circu- lation Coordinator Ron Prosser has been named Customer Relations Special- ist and will handle all the aspects of retrieval of materials and customer problems as well as oversee the day-to-day check-out operations. Dewey McGuire will be acting AV Coordinator until a decision is made about the library assuming responsibility for the cable TV Community Programming Center. If this happens, a coordinator will be named to manage both audio visual services and the Community Programming Center. President Grimes said he has talked to at least one person who is very inter- ested in applying for the Library Board vacancy created by the resignation of Richard Pegnetter effective August 1. The Council will be filling that vacancy on September 9. Grimes reported on the meetings attended last month by Board representatives concerning the proposed service reductions: the Friends Board, the Founda- tion communicatingdto library thstaff e iBoard's decisiono. He felt all nethisematter s and in discussing and responding to particular concerns raised by these groups. There was no one present who could report on Friends' activities. Foundation President Willis reported that a third new member, Wayne Beck from Hills Bank, has been appointed to the Foundation Board of Directors. The Founda- tion is currently seeking members for their FY87 Centennial Endowment Fund Committee. Grimes asked for a formal motion to appoint Deborah Burger to the Art Advi- sory Committee. She was informally appointed by talking to members in mid- July so she would be available for the June 24 meeting of the Committee. Buchanan/Willis. Adopted. lained the tracts toxprovide emergency backst -up referencom East e servral iceitoalibraries in the ECRL region. Cedar Rapids, who is the regular contracting library for this serv- /3 /14 Library Board of Trustees July 24, 1986 Page 3 ice, has entered into an agreement with Iowa Electric which allows the com- pany to request the library to cut off electrical power when peak loads are reached, usually during hot weather. In this event, ECRL would ask request- ing libraries to call ICPL instead, as long as CRPL is closed for this pur- pose. This would usually be a partial day. ICPL would receive $60 per day or partial day to answer a few reference questions from neighboring communities. The traffic for this service is moderate and should not make a heavy impact I on ICPL since much of the use is generated by ICPL itself. Gelman requested that the phrase "during its regular hours due to its agreement with Iowa Electric" be added to the last sentence of the first paragraph of the pro- posed contract. The contract was approved as revised by Gelman. Buchanan/Willis. Unanimous. Board members next reviewed the proposed memo and question and answer sheet regarding their decision about staffing and service levels at the Library. Several corrections and additions were requested. Eggers will update the five-year charts prepared for last year's budget request. Discussion of these documents with the City Council is scheduled for Monday, August 25, and Board members will try to talk individually with Council members before that date. The document will be formally approved at the August 29 Board meeting. As background to preparing the Board's FY86 annual report which is due to the City by August 8, Board members discussed items that should be included in the list of FY86 accomplishments, and a general review of FY86 goals was made. Eggers will draft the document and Grimes was instructed to review and approve the final report. The meeting was recessed at 5:40 p.m. and reconvened at 6:15 p.m. at the Holiday Inn. City Manager Steve Atkins .joined the group for part of the dinner hour and former Board member Ann Bovbjerg also attended. Meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. i � f i L oan e o y gger ec rs N SUBJECT TO BTC APPROVAL MINUTES BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION JULY 8, CIVIC CENTER COUNCIP LCHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Terry, Johnson, Ehninger, Twaler MEMBERS ABSENT: McGuire MEMBERS EXCUSED: McGuire STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Hess, Brown f OTHERS PRESENT: Blough, Scott and LeValle (Administrative Assistant to from Heritage; Melanie Papich sity; Tiffany from ICPL• Shaffer); Beeson from Univer- Access Iowa City Marjorie Strait, Cinda Stewart of RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL: None, SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN: Commission asked to keep in mind that two next spring and should consider replacements people are BTC passed a change going off ComnlSsion BTC p it 9 in the CPC Guidelines, LeValley recommended and the for non-profit programing facilities and public accesstchannel clarifies 6fare intended P atter than commercial use,, An appeals process for decisions reached regarding this new guideline was also established, correction of the minutes of the last BTC meeting stating that there are 10 hours a day of Russian programming on the University of Beeson requested -?, Blough will supply the Commission with property Iowa Channel 28, Sion will be granted and cost information concerningethewirin 80, The BTC accepted the BTC annual report b whether pennis- Due to legal matters, Shaffer annual report by g of City block ], line yet but it without modifications, request but i acknowledgement be soon. Blough presented system is not °n q gement form that Heritage will bead a copy of a new service MEETING CALLED TO 9 gin using, trr ORDER: Terry called the meeting to order at 4:38 ANNOUNCEMENTS - Bill Bill Terry announced that there is no BTC meeting Sion will go back to the morning schedule of Johnson announced meeting Johnson August and the C° Nick meetings for three that he will be out of town and o in September, Neck ,- third Tuesday of eachmonthate remaining meetings won't be able to attend November 18 and 8:00 a,m, which are for the year will be the ry keep in mind d December 16, Terry also asked September 16, October 21, need two energetic People are going off the Commissiontnext snerin°n members u Terry or Shaffer, people to serve on the Commission, spring and they a They should contact /3/s a Broadband Telecommunications Commission July 8, 1986 Page 2 MINUTES: Motion to approve minutes of June 10, 1986, by Ehninger and seconded by Johnson. Ehninger questioned why the CPC report was not first on the agenda since it was tabled last month. There was a motion to move the CPC report at the beginning of this meeting's agenda. CPC REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR UPDATING COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING: LeValley pointed out that they have shown a steady rise in usage and produc- tion this A few year. of the program highlights of June were in an article in the Daily Iowan. CPC staff produced the Janet Long dance recital and also agreedwith Ms. Long that this would be the last year Heritage would produce the recital. An addition r' to the community programming guidelines in the June packet was discussed because there is nothing in them about commercial use. The changes discussed read as follows: The facilities in the Community Programning Center (CPC) and the public access channel 26 are available on a first come, first serve non-discrimi- natory basis, In addition, it is intended that these facilities and channel space on public access channel 26 be used by community individuals and non-profit organizations, agencies f" and institutions. Programs spon- sored by commercial, profit making organizations are prohibited from using these facilities or channel space if they may gain directly or indirectly from that use. Program sponsorship is encouraged where no direct or indirect profit motive exists, as outlined on page nine of the Community Programming Guidelines. Interpretations made by Heritage Cablevision's Director of Community Programming may be appealed. (To be inserted in the Community Programming Guidelines, pg. 2, prior to "Using the Equipment." To be 'Who entitled can use the Community Program- ming facilities and public access channel 26.') A motion to accept the changes in the community programming guidelines made by Johnson, seconded by Ehninger. Passed lworkshop unanimousl. , The evaluation reports from people who went through workshops were favorable. There were many requests for handouts to go along with workshops. Work has begun on this and also M; r•- on updating the community program brochure which is a year old. PUBLIC DISCUSSION: ghrf. .,, Diana Beeson pointed out a correction in the minutes from the BTC meeting on July 8, 1986. They are broadcasting 19.5 +' hours a day and approximately 10 hours of this time is Russian broadcasting. There has been a lot of feedback from viewers so far on this Russian broadcasting, and all of it is positive. Connie Tiffany from iCPL announcedthat this was her last .„ . Commission meeting because she will be moving and on behalf of the Commission, Terry commented that he enjoyed working her, with Broadband Telecommunications Commission July 8, 1986 Page 3 UPDATE ON CITY BLOCK 80 CABLE TV WIRING: Mr. Brown addressed the Commission on the information provided to date from Heritage concerning the problem of providing City block 80 with cablevision service. Blough presented why he and Heritage have had trouble wiring the block. An agreement was made that Blough would provide information about who the property owners are in City Block 80, whether permission to wire the property can be granted and under what conditions. This information is to be supplied before the September meeting. The BTC will then make a recommenda- tion to Council. Terry mentioned that we are obligated to provide these people with cost figures and Blough agreed to make an attempt to contact each of the property owners and will supply the Commission with all information he gathers. Terry also asked Blough if a diagram of the area to be wired could also be included. Blough was told to go to City Assessor Dan Hudson for assistance in determining property ownership. BTC ANNUAL REPORT: Shaffer asked if there were modifications of the BTC annual report he drafted. The Commission responded favorably to the report and accepted it as is. A motion to accept the BTC annual report was made by Johnson and sec- onded by Twaler. Passed unanimously. SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATE REPORTS: Access/NPO Subcommittee: Ehninger,. McGuire and Shaffer have gotten together to discuss the archive files, the commercial and non-commer- cial use of facilities, and performance standards. State of the Art Subcommittee; Terry asked Blough about upgrading the system to 42 channels but Blough doesn't have facts and figures back yet. Johnson questioned the effectiveness of the subcommittee. He feels that the public doesn't know what features are available to then and if they were available, would people pay to have them. Ehninger feels that she and Johnson are still obligated to repeat these reports. Terry noted that there is a great need for a way to make the public aware of what is available. A survey to the public to inform them of available alternatives and obtain input was discussed. BTS REPORT: Shaffer announced that he would be gone from July 9 to July 21. Tiffany and Shaffer have met and will meet again concerning drafting an NPO contract and performance standards. Anyone is welcome to attend. Shaffer also stated that Heritage access performance standards will be presented in September. Ordinance amendments concerning notification by company to requesting sub- scribers went through Council with no problems. He extended thanks to LeValley for getting reports in early and thanks to Chuck Scott for his good work at the CPC. Due to legal matters, the interactive system is not on line yet but hopefully it should be soon. Examples of an NPO brochure in Grand Rapids, Michigan, were distributed to the Commission. Shaffer reported that there were four complaints being taken care of. /3/5� Broadbban198elecommunications Commission JulyPage 4 HERITA6-ORT: form9h showed the eto Commission e ssi when there fouldnew service request acknowledgement not they are in a serviceable part of the franchise question Bl to whether or that all equipment is up for C -SPAN II and hopefully by August oug 15hwillogocon line. NEW BASS: None. ADJOURNMENT: Motion to adjourn by Ehninger, seconded by Terry. Adjournment at 6:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Wk. affe BTS �,jD00 MINUTES URBAN ENVIRONMENT AD HOC COMMITTEE JUNE 10, 1986 - 4:00 P.M. IOWA CITY RECREATI0N CENTER, ROOM B 14EMBERS PRESENT: Baker, Horowitz, Jakobsen, Lundquist, Novick, Nowysz, Wachal MEMBERS ABSENT: Hradek, Jordan, Koch, Strait STAFF PRESENT: Rockwell, Ramsdell RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 1. The Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee recommends that the City Council create an ordinance which requires site development review concerning environmentally sensitive areas, buffer areas and open space, neighbor- hood preservation, entranceways to Iowa City, and scenic vistas. 2. The Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee recommends that the City Council explore avenues with the State Legislature to facilitate open space tax incentives in order to preserve and acquire open space in our City. 3. The Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee recommends that the City Council review the roles and responsibilities of City Boards, Commissions and Committees and consider the possible consolidation of these Boards, Commissions and Committees. CALL TO ORDER AND CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES: Baker called the meeting to order at 4:12 p.m. The minutes of May 13, 1986, were considered for approval. Nowysz pointed out that on page 2, line 1, the phrase "by the Siesta Motel and the Gazette building" should read "by the Siesta Motel and the Coaches Corner. It was also decided to add the word "which" preceding the phrase "will encourage the development of entrance- ways..." on page 1 in the first recommendation to Council and in the follow- ing paragraph to insert the word "designated" before the word "point." On page 3, the same changes involving the addition of the words, "which" and "designated" should be made in the first motion on page 3. Nowysz moved that the minutes of the May 13, 1986, meeting be approved as corrected. Jacobsen seconded the motion. The motion passed by a vote of 6-0-1, with Horowitz abstaining. DISCUSSION OF FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: The Committee discussed the Iowa City Urban Environment Policies which had been distributed to members. It was pointed out that the recommendation concerning scenic vistas was problematic since opinions as to what consti- tutes a scenic vista differ. Horowitz commented that the term "scenic vista" needs to be defined so that other commissions, such as the Planning and Zoning Commission, know how to interpret this recommendation. Jakobsen re- plied that the opportunity always exists for the Planning and Zoning Commis- sion to discuss any given issue with any other committee. /43/4 Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee June 10, 1986 Page 2 Horowitz commented that perhaps since there had been an ongoing interpreta- tion of the tens "scenic vista" through the years, other commissions, such as the Planning and Zoning Commission, should be able 'to refer back to the minutes of the Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee in order to form an accu- rate interpretation. Baker said that it must be pointed out that the defini- tion of a scenic vista is unresolved by the Committee, but that it is a concern the Planning and Zoning Commission should look into. Jakobsen thought that scenic vistas should be part of site development review. The general question was raised as to the status of the Urban Environment Policies devised by the Committee. Baker responded that Council had referred the recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and added that although no ordinances in relation to the policies had been developed yet, the City Council had accepted the recommendations of the Committee. Horowitz stated that although the policies may define environmental features, they don't designate how to go about developing ordinances to protect them. She said that the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission need to be aware that all five of the major recommended areas of concern should be considered whenever appropriate through site development planning. She stressed that the Council and other Boards, Commissions and Committees should be able to look back at the UEAHC minutes to understand the intent of the recommendations. Baker clarified that the Committee should pass along the general regulations and policies without attempting to define them. He asked if all five of the policies should be included in the final recommendation. Jakobsen said that she believed that all five should be considered whenever applicable. MOTION: Jakobsen moved that it be recommended to the City Council that an ounce be created that required a site development review and that the review consider the five Iowa City Urban Environment Policies set forth by the Committee. Novick seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION OF OPEN SPACE TAX INCENTIVES: Rockwell began the discussion by reporting that tax incentives for open space are not sufficient in themselves to assure open space preservation in the City. A more productive approach would be to establish a non-profit land trust which could purchase land for preservation. She mentioned that cur- rently in Iowa City the only State open space conservation program being used is the Forest Reserve Program. Rockwell indicated that although forest re- serve properties had been completely tax exempt for the past two years, they previously had only been taxed at one -one hundredth the rate at which adja- cent, comparable properties had been taxed. She explained that those persons applying for tax exemption must certify that they are complying with the forest reserve requirements. The City Assessor only checks forest reserve compliance on a complaint basis. Baker reported that there is $400,000 available to the City for the purchase of property. He commented that the only way to acquire land for open space would be to buy it, and considering the exorbitant prices of inner city property, $400,00 would not go very far. Horowitz asked about the possibil- /3/4 'r Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee June 10, 1986 Page 3 ity of using a combination of money from the City with estimations of the owner's tax credits in order to purchase open space. She went on to say that the Planning and Zoning Commission had found the issue of open space to be a continuing dilemma due to several factors including varying opinions about what size of parcel would constitute open space, the problems with tax credits and State legislation. She said that she would encourage the Plan- ning and Zoning Commission to make efforts toward an ordinance which would allow for small parcels of land to be designated as open space in the inner city, with the provision that the City be able to purchase such parcels at a reduced cost. Jakobsen noted that there would be few parcels of the type to which Horowitz had referred. Horowitz insisted, however, that a recommendation should be made to the City Council that efforts continue for the designation of small parcels of land as open space in the inner city and to encourage developers to maintain areas of open space by means of tax incentives. She also men- tioned that there might be several areas where houses would be torn down and where duplexes could be built rather than preserving the area as open space. Baker cautioned that developers may not feel that there are sufficient incen- tives for them to become involved in open space preservation. Horowitz sug- gested that developers and architects be invited to sit in on discussions about subdivisions in order that both they and the City have the opportunity to communicate their interests and concerns. Baker stated that he had reser- vations in relation to Horowitz's suggestion about acquiring small parcels of land in the inner city for open space because of the limited number of such areas. He explained that the City Council is not interested in such small Packets of open space. Horowitz raised the issue of the proposed development of the area located behind Kimball Road. Baker noted that this was a different situation involv- ing large-scale subdivision development which means that the developer will be required ito negotiate with the City. Horowitz mentioned that the City reserves the right to maintain open spaces in a heavily populated area, but Jakobsen pointed out that in the case of Kimball Road, the area is not heav- ily populated, and added that if owners want open space they can purchase it themselves. Nowysz stated that the point was that land in many areas should be considered as possible open space, not only the specific parcel of land located behind Kimball Road. Horowitz suggested that the Committee recommend to City Council that the City explore every avenue to acquire land not yet built on or land where houses might be torn down as open space either through their own means or in cooperation with owners through tax credits. Jakobsen commented that the City must work in collaboration with the State Legislature in order to determine what can be considered a tax credit. Baker disagreed with Horowitz's suggestion in that it implied that any space now open should remain open. NOTION: It was moved by Horowitz, Jakobsen and Novick that it be recommended 10 TI City Council that they explore avenues with the State Legislature to facilitate open space tax incentives in order to preserve and acquire open space in our City. Nowysz seconded the motion. The motion carried unani- mausly. Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee June 10, 1986 Page 4 DISCUSSION OF CONSOLIDATION OF COMMISSIONS: N1 Lundquist mentioned that there had been considerable discussion about combin- ing the Historic Preservation Commission with the Design Review Committee. Jakobsen said that she felt that it was time for the City Council to review the possibility of consolidating City Committees and Commissions since it hadn't been done in ten years. Wachal inquired as to the intent of the consolidation, and Baker responded that it was to facilitate and speed up the process for the developers as well as to lighten the staff workload. Nowysz felt that it was not valid to combine the Design Review Committee and the Historic Preservation Commission because there is little overlap in their functions. Jakobsen remarked that many times City Committees, such as the Riverfront Commission, weren't provided with enough to do in order to function on a regular basis, and that perhaps consolidation of Committees and Commissions would overcome this problem. Wachal expressed his concern that consolidation would result in a loss of the expertise and focus of each individual Commit- tee and Commission. Horowitz stated that she believed that under the present system there was not enough cross-fertilization among the Committees and Commissions to take advantage of each one's expertise. She clarified that she favored a consoli- dation in which the expertise of each Committee and Commission remained a discreet entity. Jakobsen stressed that as a management tool, the considera- tion of consolidation was necessary in order to update the structure and functions of the Committees and Commissions. Wachal said that he was concerned about the size of the proposed consolidated Commissions. He suggested that it would be more beneficial for certain members of the various Committees and Commissions to consult with one an- other. Horowitz mentioned that the timing factor was a problem, being that Committee and Commission meetings are scheduled at different times during the month. She explained that by the time the Planning and Zoning Commission would decide that they would like input from another Committee, weeks would pass and applicants would become frustrated. Jakobsen pointed out that this was because the Planning and Zoning Commission met twice a month whereas the other Comnittees met only once a month. Nowysz agreed citing an example where the Historic Preservation Committee was consulted by the City Council regard- ing street names and it took a month before the information could be relayed back to Council. MOTION: Jakobsen moved that it be recommended that City Council review the role of Boards, Commissions and Committees and study their possible consoli- dation. Horowitz seconded the motion. The motion oassed by a vote of 6-1. Wachal opposed the motion stating that he Fult it hadan operational problem of including too many separate Boards, Committees and Commissions. /3�G Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee June 10, 1986 Page 5 DISCUSSION OF BUS TOUR: Lundquist distributed a draft of the letter which would be sent out to those who may be interested in attending the bus tour. She stated that she was presently working on a list of people to whom the letter would be sent, including the Iowa City Board of Realtors, Project GREEN, etc. Novick sug- gested that in order to publicize the bus tour, it could be announced at various Board and Commission meetings. Lundquist informed the Committee that the letters of invitation would be mailed June 27th and would request an RSVP. The week before the tour, the Chamber will conduct a phone campaign to remind people of the tour. Nowysz asked if the Bar Association would be receiving a letter as she believes that there is a need for attorneys to understand the issues. Novick agreed and said the. letter should be sent to Patricia Kamath, the President of the Johnson County Bar Association. Lundquist asked if there were any questions or suggestions about the letter. Baker suggested that the greeting "to environmentally concerned citizens" be modified to read "to interested individuals regarding the tour of environmen- tally sensitive areas." Nowysz asked if the meeting place would be the Civic Center parking lot, and Lundquist responded that yes, the location had been changed on Franklin's recommendation in order to avoid conflict with the Farmer's Market. It was arranged that every member would inform their re- spective Commissions and Committees about the tour either by announcing it at a meeting or sending out the letter to Comnittee and Commission members. Lundquist requested that everyone review the map and route attached to the letter and decide if there were other areas that should be covered on the tour. Nowysz commented that the only other area which she would include would be Market Street and all of the downtown area which may eventually come under the jurisdiction of the Design Review Committee. ADJOURNMENT: Horowitz moved that the meeting be adjourned and Nowysz seconded the motion. The motion passed and the meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m. Minutes submitted by Lee Ramsdell. /03/4