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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-01-15 Council minutesCOMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF COUNCIL ACTIVITIES January 15, 1985 Iowa City Council, reg. mtg., 1/15/85, 7:30 P.M. at the Civic Center. Mayor McDonald presiding. Councilmembers present: Ambrisco, Baker, Dickson, Erdahl, McDonald, Strait, Zuber. Absent: None. Staffinembers present: Berlin, Helling, Jansen, Karr, Franklin, Seydel. Council minutes tape recorded on Tape 85-C2, Side 1, 16 -End and Side 7., 1 -End; 85-C9, Side 1, 1-405. Mayor McDonald proclaimed January 20, 1985, as World Religion Day. Moved by Strait and seconded by Dickson, that the following items and recommendations in the Consent Calendar be received, or approved, and/or adopted as amended: Minutes of Boards and Commissions: Parks and Recreation Comn.-12/14/84; Housing Appeals Bd.-12/11/84; Housing Comm. -12/11/84; Broadband Telecomm. Comm. -10/16/84, 11/13/84; Airport Comm. -12/13/84; Planning & Zoning Comn.-12/6/84, 12/20/84; Mayor's Youth Employment Program -12/19/84; Urban Environment Ad Hoc Comm. -12/4/84; Coun- cil/Legislative Meeting -12/31/84. Permit Motions and Resolutions: Approving Class C Liquor License for Four Cushions, Inc. dba Dooley's, 18-20 South Clinton. Approving Class C Liquor License and Sunday Sales for Coslow's, Inc. dba Simmy's, 208 North Linn Street. Approving Class C Liquor License for Lorna K. Smith dba Smith & Company, 1210 Highland Court. To refund a portion of Liquor License to Speak Easy, 630 Iowa Avenue. To refund a portion of Liquor License to Gabe's, 330 East Washington. Approving Class C Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for Clyde R. Seaton dba Seaton's Cash and Carry Market, 1331 Muscatine Avenue. Approving Class C Liquor License for Crow's Nest, Inc. dba Crow's Nest, 313 South Dubuque. RES. 85-7, Bk. 85, p. 11, REFUND CIGARETTE PERMIT. RES. 85-8, Bk. 85, p. 12, REFUND CIGARETTE PERMIT. RES. 85-9, Bk. 85, p. 13, ISSUE DANCING PERMIT. Correspondence: Letter of appreciation from Bruce Haupert. Dewey McGuire regarding cable television. Heritage Communications furnishing a corrected copy of a memorandum which was furnished to the City Council at the 12/18/84 meeting. Robert J. Miller of Grant Wood Area Education Agency supporting the Mayor's Youth Employment Program. Emily and Warren Curran objecting to the rezoning of Melrose Lake area. John Hayek, attorney representing Terence and Glenys Williams, objecting to the rezoning of the Melrose Lake area. Carl J. Strub objecting to the rezoning of 707 Oakcrest (Melrose Lake area). Viggo M. Jensen Company objecting to the proposed rezoning of the Harlocke Street area. Memo from the Civil Service Commission submitting certified lists of appli- cants for the following positions: Maintenance Worker II/Pollution ( Control; Maintenance Worker III/Transit. Application for use of Streets and Public Grounds: Johnson County/Iowa City National Organization for Women to picket in front of the Emma Goldman Clinic on 1/18, thru 1/22/85. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the motion carried. Council Activities January 15, 1985 Page 2 Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Baker, to set a public hearing for 1/29/85, on an ordinance to rezone property south and east of University Heights, west of Woodside Drive extended and north of Marietta Avenue extended easterly to the CRI&P railroad tracks from RM -12 to RS -8 and from RM -44 to RS -8. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. Moved by Strait, seconded by Dickson, to set a public hearing on 1/29/85, on an ordinance to rezone property in the 1500 block on the east side of South Gilbert Street from CI -1 to CC -2. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. Jay Honohan, attorney for the applicants, appeared and requested Council give first reading to the ordinance the same night as the public hearing. Councilmembers noted the policy to take no action on the same night as a public hearing. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Baker, to set a public hearing for 1/29/85, on an ordinance to amend the sign regulations of the Zoning Ordi- nance. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Council - members present. Moved by Dickson, seconded by Ambrisco, to set a public hearing for 1/29/85, on an ordinance to vacate the north alley of Block 4, Lyon's First Addition. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. A public hearing was held on an ordinance to rezone property north of Highway 1, south of Benton Street and along and east of Harlocke Street extended from RM -44 to RS -8, RM -20 and RM -12. The following people appeared: Dave Dierks, 905 Weeber; Daniel Bray, 948 Weeber; Chuck Mullen, atty. for Viggo Jensen; Jim Johnson, 912 Weeber; Charlie Ruppert, 1406 N. Dubuque. Moved by Dickson, seconded by Erdahl, to accept petitions and correspondence from Larry & Judy Rigler; Jerry & JoAnn Hilgenberg; Olympia & A.H. Niederecker; Charles Barker, attorney for Charles Ruppert. Moved by Erdahl, seconded by Dickson, to further consideration of this matter and item f. (the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Conn. to terminate Harlocke Street in a cul-de-sac) which is directly related for purposes of setting up under resolution a consultation with the Planning and Zoning Commission. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The matter will be scheduled for informal session in the near future with members of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Dickson, to delete and to take no action on items 4g and 4h, recommendations of the Planning and Zoning Comm. regard- ing a request to rezone 1.0 acres northeast of Iowa City in Johnson County from A-1 to RS and request to rezone 1.2 acres north of Iowa City from A-1 to RS. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Council - members present. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Dickson, that the ordinance for an amendment to the Planned Development Housing Plan for Ty'n Cae, Part 3, be given second vote for passage, The Mayor declared the motion carried, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. Council Activities January 15, 1985 Page 3 A public hearing was held to consider the proposed amendment to Ordinance No. 84-3166 of the Code of Ordinances by adopting Appendix C of the Uniform Plumbing Code, 1982 Edition, and amending certain sections of Iowa City Plumbing Code. No one appeared. A public hearing was held on Applications for Additional Section 8 Units. No one appeared. The Mayor announced the following vacancies: Broadband Telecomm. Comm. - two vacancies for three-year terms ending 3/3/88; Historic Preservation Comm. - two vacancies for three-year terms ending 3/29/88; Airport Zoning Bd. of Adjustment - one vacancy for a two-year term ending 2/26/87 and one vacancy for a four-year term ending 2/26/89. These appointments will be made at the 2/26/85 meeting of the City Council. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, to appoint Jack Ashby, 2004 Dunlap Ct., to the Airport Comm. for a six-year term ending 3/1/91. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor announced that no applications had been received to fill two vacancies on the Resources Conservation Conn. for three-year terms ending 1/1/88. The Mayor noted this was an excellent Commission for individuals who have an interest in energy conservation and urged citizens to apply. The vacancies will be re -advertised. Councilmember Ambrisco noted the report from the Committee for Iowa's Future Growth entitled "We Are Iowans First" and pointed out Council's consideration of the tax abatement ordinance. Erdahl noted the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King on January 15th. Councilmember Baker requested the Transit Mgr. research the possibility of bulk rate bus passes to outlying apartment areas to use as incentives to attract tenants. Baker questioned when the parking study would be complete. The City Mgr. stated the study should be available in two weeks. Baker asked for an update on the status of the hotel (light) sign. Councilmember Zuber also noted the "We Are Iowans First" and urged City staff read sections dealing with streets, roads and airports. Moved by Erdahl, seconded by Strait, to approve tentative agreement between the City of Iowa City and AFSCME, Local #183. The Mayor declared the motion carried, 6/0, Dickson abstaining. The recommendations of the Parks and Recreation Commission noted as follows: (1) That the City Council purchase Ryerson's Woods, a portion of the County Home property and the proposed Miller Park area, in FY85. (2) That arts issues be considered under the jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Commission, but only with the understanding that they will be funded at an appropriate level with funds over and above those already considered for Parks and Recreation purposes. The recommendations of the Housing Commission noted as follows: (1) That application for 25 additional Section 8 certificates be approved. (2) That application for 14 Section 8 vouchers be approved. Council Activities January 15, 1985 Page 4 Moved by Strait, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt RES. 85-10, Bk. 85, pp. 14-15, APPROVING CONTRACT AND BOND FOR THE TAFT SPEEDWAY SANITARY SEWER EXTENSION ASSESSMENT PROJECT. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt RES. 85-11, Bk. 85, pp. 16-19, AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AND THE CITY CLERK TO ATTEST AN AGREE- MENT WITH THE ELDERLY SERVICES AGENCY TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A HOUSING MODIFICATIONS PROGRAM FOR THE FRAIL ELDERLY. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolu- tion adopted. Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt RES. 85-12, Bk. 85, pp. 20-22, AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ISSUE ORDER SUSPENDING FOR FOURTEEN DAYS THE BEER PERMIT HELD BY LUCKY STORES, INC., EAGLE DISCOUNT SUPERMARKET #157. Terrence Brown, District Mgr. for Eagle Stores, presented an appeal of the suspension to the City Clerk. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, to adopt RES. 85-13, Bk. 85, pp. 23-25, AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ISSUE ORDER SUSPENDING FOR FOURTEEN DAYS THE BEER PERMIT HELD BY QUIKTRIP CORPORATION, QUIKTRIP #552. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Dickson, seconded by Strait, to adopt RES. 85-14, Bk. 85, pp. 26-28, AUTHORIZING MAYOR TO ISSUE ORDER SUSPENDING FOR FOURTEEN DAYS THE BEER PERMIT HELD BY HAROLD DICKEY, DICKEY'S SAVE -A -LOT. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt RES. 85-15, Bk. 85, pp. 29-30, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A REVISED ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS CONTRACT. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Zuber, to adopt RES. 85-16, Bk. 85, pp. 31-36, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS CONTRACT AND GENERAL DEPOSITORY AGREEMENT AND ISSUANCE OF PROJECT LOAN AND PERMANENT NOTES. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted. Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, that the ordinance to establish partial property Tax Exemptions for Industrial Property, be given second vote for passage. After discussion by individual Councilmembers, the Mayor declared the motion carried, 5/2, Erdahl and Baker voting "no." Moved by Zuber, seconded by Dickson, that ORD. 85-3220, Bk. 25, pp. 1-3, AMENDING SECTIONS 15-48 AND 15-62(A) OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES, RELATING TO REFUSE COLLECTION, TO LIMIT PLACEMENT OF REFUSE CONTAINERS AND TO CLARIFY THAT ONLY COMBINATIONS OF FOUR OR FEWER DWELLING UNITS WILL RECEIVE REFUSE PICKUP SERVICE, be passed and adopted. The City Clerk noted a correction in the title of the ordinance. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the ordinance adopted. a Council Activities January 15, 1985 Page 5 Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt ORD. 85-3221, Bk. 25, pp. 4-9, A14ENDING SECTION 23-189 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF IOWA CITY TO CHANGE THE SPEED LIMIT ON PARTS OF MELROSE AVENUE. Affirmative roll call vote unani- mous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The Mayor declared the ordinance adopted. Movedeclarreddby the motiontcarriedded unan by ously, 7/0, all CounciDickson, to adjourn lmembeMayor rs present. ohn McDonald, 14ayor Marin K Karr, City Clerk k I i i �I INFORMAL COUNCIL DISCUSSION JANUARY 8, 1985 Informal Council Discussion: January 8, 1985, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at the Civic Center. Mayor Pro tem Erdahl presiding. Councilmembers Present: Erdahl, Strait, Zuber, Dickson, Ambrisco, Baker (8:20 PM). Absent: McDonald. Staff Present: Berlin, Helling, Jansen, Karr, Hencin, Brachtel. Tae Recorded: Reel 84-C100, Side 2, 192 -End; 85-C3, Side , All, Side 2, 1-139. Lower_ Ralston Creek Parcels - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Berlin explained that the Lower Ralston Creek parcels should be reviewed by Council because of new flood maps, and individuals' interest in bidding on a specific parcel, the parcel's closeness to the creek, and plans with the County. In response to Strait, Hencin said land adjacent to Parcel A-1 is owned by Croker Insurance Agency, a real estate agency, and city -owned property. The privately owned property is not eligible for tax abatement because it is commercial property. Regarding Parcel A-2, Hencin said the parcel is almost unusable and could be used as open space. Berlin said it would not be desirable to build next to the creek. Strait suggested using Parcel A-3 in negotiations with the County for land. Strait inquired about the sale of Parcel 0. Hencin said Project HOPE, Knights of Columbus and private individuals have shown interest in Parcel D. Erdahl said the parcel looks like a good open space area. Iowa -Illinois Gas and Electric Franchise - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Dickson inquired about the change of the City Attorney's opinion and applying part of the franchise fee to the Coralville Dam project. Jansen explained that the City is restricted in use of the revenues and there is a question of subsidies. Jansen said it may permissible to use part of the revenue to defray the cost of the Coralville project. In response to Erdahl, Jansen said the fee could be used to support an energy conservation staff and to handle the administration of the ordinance but could not be used to fund the energy projects. Erdahl stated that staff is not limited to subsidy conservation measures. Strait suggested that Iowa -Illinois franchise be discussed at a later time when all Councilmembers are present. An Iowa -Illinois Gas & Electric Company attorney reviewed their position by stating: "We have agreed as part of our proposal to accept the 1% franchise fee or rental fee. So you have to follow the advise of counsel as far as legal advice. We've already agreed to that. We are not going to challenge it if goes through. All we are saying is that that is part of our offer that we would remain neutral in the referendum held, that Z—/ i �I i INFORMAL COUNCIL DISCUSSION JANUARY 8, 1985 Informal Council Discussion: January 8, 1985, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at the Civic Center. Mayor Pro tem Erdahl presiding. Councilmembers Present: Erdahl, Strait, Zuber, Dickson, Ambrisco, Baker (8:20 PM). Absent: McDonald. Staff Present: Berlin, Helling, Jansen, Karr, Hencin, Brachtel. Tae Recorded: Reel 84-C100, Side 2, 192 -End; 85-C3, Side , All, Side 2, 1-139. Lower_ Ralston Creek Parcels - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Berlin explained that the Lower Ralston Creek parcels should be reviewed by Council because of new flood maps, and individuals' interest in bidding on a specific parcel, the parcel's closeness to the creek, and plans with the County. In response to Strait, Hencin said land adjacent to Parcel A-1 is owned by Croker Insurance Agency, a real estate agency, and city -owned property. The privately owned property is not eligible for tax abatement because it is commercial property. Regarding Parcel A-2, Hencin said the parcel is almost unusable and could be used as open space. Berlin said it would not be desirable to build next to the creek. Strait suggested using Parcel A-3 in negotiations with the County for land. Strait inquired about the sale of Parcel 0. Hencin said Project HOPE, Knights of Columbus and private individuals have shown interest in Parcel D. Erdahl said the parcel looks like a good open space area. Iowa -Illinois Gas and Electric Franchise - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Dickson inquired about the change of the City Attorney's opinion and applying part of the franchise fee to the Coralville Dam project. Jansen explained that the City is restricted in use of the revenues and there is a question of subsidies. Jansen said it may permissible to use part of the revenue to defray the cost of the Coralville project. In response to Erdahl, Jansen said the fee could be used to support an energy conservation staff and to handle the administration of the ordinance but could not be used to fund the energy projects. Erdahl stated that staff is not limited to subsidy conservation measures. Strait suggested that Iowa -Illinois franchise be discussed at a later time when all Councilmembers are present. An Iowa -Illinois Gas & Electric Company attorney reviewed their position by stating: "We have agreed as part of our proposal to accept the 1% franchise fee or rental fee. So you have to follow the advise of counsel as far as legal advice. We've already agreed to that. We are not going to challenge it if goes through. All we are saying is that that is part of our offer that we would remain neutral in the referendum held, that Z—/ we would go along with it, that's what the City Council wants - the citizens' desires and we would be obligated by the agreement as soon as the resolution is passed that we submitted to you. As soon as Council acts on the resolution, signs the letter, we are committed to the agreement or offer without any questions of the legality of it." Jansen said his memo is in response to questions raised by Iowa -Illinois and is a reversal of his previous views. Jansen said there is not very much legal guidance in the area. Strait requested that minutes of this meeting include the highlights of the discussion about the Iowa -Illinois Gas & Electric franchise. Dickson suggested the committee review alternatives to the fran- chise fee. John's Grocery Beer Permit Suspension - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Because of the arrival of the Alberhasky's, owners of John's Grocery, Erdahl explained the Council decision to suspend their beer permit. The Council is mandated by State law to suspend the beer permit for 14 days because an employee pled guilty to selling beer to a minor. Alberhasky said he drills employees to check ID's and ask that police contact him about store clerks who sell beer to minors. Berlin stated that the Chief of Police will report on procedure used to monitor illegal beer sales and the status of other businesses that have had employees plead guilty to selling beer to minors. Handicap Parking - 100 Block S. Capitol - Reel 84-C100, Side 2 Councilmembers supported Ambrisco's suggestion to locate handicapped parking in the 100 block of S. Capitol. Brachtel stated the space could be functional if handicapped persons used discretion about using the spaces safely. Brachtel said that downtown businesses have stated there is not adequate loading zones. Councilmembers discussed the location of the handicapped parking. Erdahl inquired if safety would be increased if handicapped spaces were generous in size. Brachtel suggested moving the handicapped spaces north, away from the Younker's truck loading bay. Ambrisco recommended allotting three spaces for handicapped parking and suggested that Brachtel design the handicap parking accordingly. North Side Lighting Project - Reel 85-C3, Side 1 Councilmembers reviewed the North Side Lighting Project report from Professor Curry. Erdahl explained that the study was to discern if there was any improvement from the North Side Lighting Project before more money was spent on additional lighting projects. Curry reported that the streets had a beneficial effect on the attitudes of people living on the North Side. Objectively it was difficult to pin point areas where complaints were reduced and to determine if there was a strong impact from the lighting project. In response to Erdahl, Curry said that there has been research on guardian functions and there is a geographical relationship with the presence of certain types of buildings in designated areas. In response to Strait, Curry said he didn't have the re- sources to determine if crime has moved away from the lighting project to other areas. Curry recommended extending the project to other areas of Iowa City if the city is interested in projecting a positive image and contributing to the quality of life. Berlin stated additional studies throughout the country have demonstrated that there is change in people's perception to more positive feelings, there is a drop off of complaints and it is difficult to find a permanent change over a long-term period. Strait suggested Curry publish his i 3 report. The matter will be scheduled for another informal session in the near future. Erdhal requested an update from Police Chief Miller on the hours and areas of patrol in Iowa City. Council Time - Reel 85-C3, Side 1 1. Zuber stated that consumers are being overcharged by Heritage Cablevision. Zuber has requested additional information from Drew Shaffer for the Council to review. Strait reminded that Council that at the first meeting with Heritage the Council was assured that problems would not occur in Iowa City as were found in Des Moines and that the Heritage attorney was not aware of the retroactivity laws that were to go into effect January 1. 2. Dickson announced that Iowa City Night with the State legislature will be held January 30 in Des Moines. I 3. Dickson inquired about attending the Annual Congressional City Conference. Erdahl said preference should be given to Councilmembers who have not attended the conference before. Erdahl asked the City Manager about other meetings for Councilmembers to attend. 4. Ambrisco and Dickson reviewed highlights of the December 31 Legislative Committee meeting with area legislators. Erdahl requested staff to contact Representative Lloyd -Jones and Senator Small regarding the City's powers to lift eligibility criteria for tax abatement. I' 5. Dickson inquired about Iowa City's emergency responsibilities policy. Erdahl requested an update from the Civil Defense Committee. 6. Berlin noted a December 11, 1984 memo re the purchase of a self-propelled scraper to replace the push type scraper at the City landfill. The new equipment will cost $80,000. Since there has been no discussion, staff will proceed. 7. Strait inquired about utilizing landfill methane gas as a source of City revenue. Berlin said that Stanley Consultants reported that there cur- rently is not sufficient methane gas to make it a profitable project. 8. Melling announced a special meeting with the County on January 24 at 4:00 PM. Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM. Council Review Session on the FY86 Proposed Budget January 12, 1985 Informal Council Discussion: January 12, 1985, at 8:00 a.m. at the Iowa City Public rary,oom . ayor John McDonald presiding. Councilmembers Present: McDonald, Ambrisco, Baker, Strait, Zuber, Erdahl. Absent: Dickson, Staff Present: Berlin, Karr, Vitosh, Kimble, Helling, and other staff at each presentation. Tame -recorded: Reel 85-C3, Side 2, 139 -End; Reel 85-C4, all; Reel 85-05, a 11 Reel 85-C6, Side 1, all, Side 2 1-193. BUDGET INTRODUCTION: (Berlin, Vitosh) Reel 84-C3, Side 2 Berlin said that the overall approach to the budget is more conservative this year because 1) the importance of bringing revenues closer to the total expenditures in each individual year; 2) using other fund balances to help finance first quarter operations in the General Fund are no longer available; and 3) transit assistance will continue to decline and revenue sharing will probably not be renewed which will cost the City in future years. Vitosh highlighted this year's budget including the budget summary; the 10i increase in transit fare; the 801 refuse collection fee increase; the expanded service levels; Berlin's priority list of unfunded Expanded Service Level requests; the two staffing additions in the Equipment Division; personnel costs which will increase the budget from $100,000 to $160,000 in light of the AFSCME agreement; and the changes to the operating budget as recommended by the review committee of the distinguished budget presentation award. Vitosh discussed the lower receipts from federal and state transit assistance and state municipal assistance. Revenue sharing is the same as FY85. Vitosh also reviewed continuation for funding the City's upgrading of the computer system; the government buildings budget; and the assessed valuations as received from the County. In response to Strait, Vitosh said that only equipment maintenance has funding for additional employees. Vitosh reviewed potential sources of additional revenue. In response to Strait, Berlin said that a volunteer coordinator for the Senior Center is not included in the CM's list of ESL positions. In response to Baker, Vitosh said that the $4.30 refuse collection rate should make the system self-supporting for the next two years. Vitosh said the study of additional revenue sources will begin as soon as the budget is adopted. In response to Strait, Berlin reviewed vacant position replacement policy. McDonald stated that budget projections are based on a six percent increase in property tax. The Council discussed property tax and ways to increase revenue. COUNCIL REVIEW SESSION ON THE FY86 PROPOSEO BUDGET JANUARY 12, 1985 PAGE 2 POLICE: (Miller) Page 127, Reel 85-C3, Side 2 Miller briefly reviewed the slight reduction in the FY86 police budget changes in each budget area including vehicle replacement, northside lighting project, multiple police response for arrests, and possible areas for budget reductions. Vitosh noted that all positions this year are expressed in full-time equivalence. Baker asked that all budgets add an FY84 estimated column for comparison. ANIMAL CONTROL: (Horton) Page 157, Reel 85-C4, Side 1 The Council discussed current potential Animal Control fees and funding. Horton reviewed the sliding scale for repeat offenders of the Animal Control Ordinance and work on the Exotic Animal Ordinance. TRANSIT: (McGonagle) Page 253, Reel 85-C4, Side 1 McGonagle reviewed the maintenance study recommendations, service requests, and the southwest tripper bus. The Council discussed bus ridership and funding. In response to Strait, McGonagle reviewed UMTA projections of the useful life span of a bus. McGonagle said he would cut tripper and night 1 services if transit budaet had to be reduced. McGonagle also reviewed the new transit building, the training budget, the fee increase in revenue I projections, and relations with CAMBUS and the Coralville bus system. McDonald and the Council discussed the fee increase and its affects on ridership, and the interrelationship between the bus system and parking. AIRPORT: (Zehr) Page 247, Reel 85-C4, Side 2 Zehr reviewed corporate hangar amortization and bids. Other budget increases are for runway pavement repair. Zuber said the airport should use up more of its capital improvement reserves and stated more of the airport operations should be financed out of revenues from other than tax dollars. Council - members suggested obtaining additional revenues from the business community, University, Coralville, user fees, special charges during football game days, and charging for parking at the airport. Zehr said increasing flowage fees would generate more revenues, but it would be difficult to collect user fees. Zehr said he has talked with Ray Muston about economic development at the Iowa City Airport. Baker said the City Council needs to discuss the develop- ment and environmental concerns of property along South 218. Zehr will research alternative revenue sources and report back to Council. HOUSING INSPECTION SERVICES: (Boothroy, Frantz, Seydel) Page 162, 166, 170, 292, Reel 85-C4, Side 2 Boothroy said that HIS is now fully staffed and plans to continue at the same service level. The administrative budget reflects an additional half-time staff person for zoning code enforcement. Boothroy reviewed the fee struc- ture for housing and building permits. Boothroy explained that staff is reviewing and updating computer files, there is a need for a senior housing inspector. In response to Strait, Boothroy said the congregate housing COUNCIL REVIEW SESSION ON TIIF FY86 PROPOSED BUDGET JANUARY 12, 1985 PAGE 3 project is funded by CDBG funding sources. In response to McDonald, Frantz explained that there is a one week turnaround time for building permits reviewed by staff and a two day period for housing permits. McDonald said that Council should discuss the inspection process. Berlin stated staff will outline issues and alternatives as it relates to duplexes and owner -occupied housing and schedule discussion at an informal Council meeting. Seydel said more units are available for Section 8 housing at or below the fair market rent. Assisted housing intends to increase the Section 8 program by 28 units and possibly another 25 units. Seydel explained that rental vouchers are now used instead of certificates. The voucher system subsidized the difference between 30 percent of the tenant's income and a cap rent. Also, the administrative fee will pay only 6-1/2 percent. Boothroy said the Congregate Housing Committee will be interviewing two consultants for the congregate housing program. One of the tasks of the consultants will be to assess existing services available in the city. Baker inquired about the difference between building permits and rental permits on page 168 of the proposed budget. Vitosh explained that the rental permit was a mis-classification or coding error of that line item. FIRE DEPARTMENT: (Keating) Page 149, Reel 85-05, Side 1 Keating reviewed current activities and equipment uses by the Fire Depart- ment. Three shifts, totaling 50 people, provide a continuous protection to 25 square miles. The average response time is 3.5 minutes. The Fire Department handles an average of 1800 emergency related calls per year and assists the University with fire training, inspection, and protection. Vitosh explained that the University contract for fire protection is based on the operating costs of Fire Department services per square foot. The University pays about $400,000 for the fire protection services. Keating said the major capital outlay is for an air compressor and car. Expanded service level requests include a secretary, training officer, and nine firefighters. Council raised concerns about duplication of services regarding the first responder program and the Johnson County Ambulance Service. Keating said there is a difference between the two services in that the Fire Department provides assurance of an emergency response within three minutes. In response to Strait, Keating said that the national rate is 1.5 firefighters per thousand people while Iowa City has a rate of only 0.9 per thousand people. Strait said that the expanded service level request for hi -rise harness packs are a necessity and should be considered for funding. Berlin said that the smaller expanded level requests are not prioritized. Vitosh stated that anything that isn't a replacement is included under ( expanded service level. SENIOR CENTER: (Meisel) Page 204, Reel 85-05, Side 2 Meisel introduced Senior Center Commission members. Vice -Chair Henry Fox presented the Senior Center report. Fox said that to continue to improve present programs and meet new needs, the Senior Center needs an additional COUNCIL REVIEW SESSION ON THE FY86 PROPOSED BUDGET JANUARY 12, 1985 PAGE 4 qualified staff member. Meisel said that a volunteer specialist is necessary to take advantage of the available pool of volunteers and stated that the volunteer committee works to train the volunteers about services available in the community. Erdahl suggested that the volunteer committee could organize the volunteers rather than shifting the burden to a staff person. In response to Zuber, Meisel explained that the increase in the number of new services provided is partially caused by a change in the definition of new service. Zuber requested that in the future the requests include projections for the next year so projections can be matched to actual growth. Meisel said that accurate projections are difficult because of reliance on volunteers. LIBRARY: (Cavitt, Eggers) Page 190, Reel 85-05, Side 2 Cavitt introduced Library Foundation and Board members and Friends of the Library members in attendance. Cavitt presented a report on the state of the library including the need for additional staff and revenue raising efforts. Cavitt asked for guidelines from the Council on the level of support that the library can expect from the City. Eggers presented a report on a planned computer upgrade for the library including a five-year lease -purchase plan. Cavitt reviewed the library fine policy, and recommended the Library Board be allowed to review the policy for a possible increase. In response to Zuber, Eggers gave statistics on library use and reported on personal computer references for the public. PARKS AND RECREATION: (Cassady, Riddle, Harvey, Howell, Robinson, Hradek, Wom ck) Page 67, 99, 116, 122, 176, 185, 200 Cassady introduced members of the Parks and Recreation Commission, and briefly reviewed administrative budgets and personnel, Government Buildings. Vitosh noted that $20,000 was budgeted to rent additional space. Berlin stated staff will study the need to rent additional space and report back to Council. Erdahl said staff should come to the Council when money is needed rather than budget the $20,000. CBD Maintenance. Berlin stated staff will look at all functions of Parks and Recreation, consider the issue of CBD maintenance, and make decisions on the Parks and Recreation Director position. In response to Ambrisco, Berlin said the hotel is responsible for maintenance of the Dubuque walkway. Cemetery. Wonick said the budget will maintain the same level of services and there is a need for additional space for equipment. Space could be obtained by expanding the existing garage. Forestry, Robinson stated trees cost $160 each the past year. Robinson intends to purchase smaller trees, use trees from the City's nursery, and look for competitive bids. Zuber said the City should expand their own nursery. Parks. Howell said there are no major changes to the budget. Baker inquired about the Parkland Ordinance. Berlin said a letter will be sent to develop- ers soliciting input. Howell reported there is a request for a water line extension to Napolean Park. Materials will cost $5,000 for the water line -T-,2 n COUNCIL REVIEW SESSION ON THE FY86 PROPOSED BUDGET JANUARY 12, 1985 PAGE 5 and the Water Department will do the installation. Howell said new equipment for College Green will replace old playground equipment. Ambrisco inquired a about the proposed band shell at the College Green Park, Recreation. Cassady reported no major changes in the recreation budget. There was a 33 percent increase in summer activities of recreation programs. Recreation is requesting an additional half-time staff person, costing $11,128. Zuber stated that Recreation should present a specific proposal that will guarantee revenues for that position. Strait inquired about arts programs and suggested Parks and Recreation contact the Iowa Arts Council. In response to Baker, Cassady said Parks and Recreation personnel and facilities are involved with the upcoming Junior Olympics. Riddle reminded Council about the gym fund. Meeting adjourned at 1:00 p.m. r' ".- I t i 1 i I' i i 1 n COUNCIL REVIEW SESSION ON THE FY86 PROPOSED BUDGET JANUARY 12, 1985 PAGE 5 and the Water Department will do the installation. Howell said new equipment for College Green will replace old playground equipment. Ambrisco inquired a about the proposed band shell at the College Green Park, Recreation. Cassady reported no major changes in the recreation budget. There was a 33 percent increase in summer activities of recreation programs. Recreation is requesting an additional half-time staff person, costing $11,128. Zuber stated that Recreation should present a specific proposal that will guarantee revenues for that position. Strait inquired about arts programs and suggested Parks and Recreation contact the Iowa Arts Council. In response to Baker, Cassady said Parks and Recreation personnel and facilities are involved with the upcoming Junior Olympics. Riddle reminded Council about the gym fund. Meeting adjourned at 1:00 p.m. r' ".- Informal Council Discussion January 14, 1985 Informal Council Discussion: January 14, 1985, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers at the Civic Center. Mayor John McDonald presiding. Council Members Present: McDonald, Baker, Ambrisco, Erdahl, Zuber, Strait, Dickson. Staff Members Present: Berlin, Helling, Franklin, Karr, Smith, Jansen, Cain, Davidson. Ta'e-recorded: Reel 85-C7, Side 1, Side 2, 1 -End; 85-C8, Side 1, Side 2, 1-15. PLANNING AND ZONING: Reel 85-C7, Side 1 The Planning and Zoning recommendation was not consistent with the staff report. The staff recommended that the Neuzil tract be rezoned to RS -8, Melrose Apartment tract remain RM -12 and RM -44 area be rezoned to RNC -20. All background material will be sent to Council prior to the public hearing. No discus hearina for January 29, 1985, on an on an ordinance to amena the s Council received the amended sign regulations for their review. Franklin said in order to get a sign permit during the 60 -day moratorium, triggered by the setting of this public hearing, the proposed sign will need to comply with the old and new regulations. Berlin said a business has filed a complaint which is scheduled to be heard in court January 17th. The case involved two free-standing signs that have a 198.48 foot frontage, and the required 200 foot frontage. Council directed Jansen to request a continuance of the case. In response to McDonald, Helling said he will schedule more discussion time for specific zoning matters and the sign ordinance at the informal meeting in two weeks. set nublir hearino on an ordinance to vacate the north alley of Block 4, Lyon's rirst Aaattlon. Franklin explained there are two alleys in Block 4. This is a corrective ordinance to clear title to the northerly alley and properly dispose of the property. Franklin and Jansen said there is documentation that indicates the City Council did intend to dispose of the property to Capitol Implement. T3 INFORMAL COut.,.l: UI SCU„] OB JANUARY 14, 1905 PAGE 2 nance to rezone property north of Hi Franklin explained the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended that Harlocke Street area be rezoned RM -44 to RS -8 along Harlocke Street to Highway 1, the Jensen property east of Harlocke to RM -20, and the Ruppert property north of Highway 1 and south of Benton Manor to RM -12. The Planning and Zoning Commission initiated action after they had recommended denial of a neighborhood request to rezone the entire RM -44 area to RS -5. David Dierks gave a slide presentation of the Harlocke Street area demon- strating traffic congestion problems. Franklin said staff recommended RNC -20 on the Harlocke Street and Jensen property and RM -12 for the Ruppert property. There would not be a buffer zone because of existing high density development. In response to Strait, Franklin said that staff studied various street patterns which allowed sufficient access to the area and yet would discourage thru-traffic. Planning and Zoning had discussed cutting a street directly to Benton off of Harlocke Street which would require the acquisition of property by the City. McDonald said a public hearing will be held tomorrow evening and neighbors will have an opportunity to comment. The public hearing is on Plan 5 as outlined by staff. Franklin noted that if Council does not agree with the Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation, there is a policy that they will consult with Planning and Zoning before any action is taken. Recommendation of Planning and Zoning Commission to terminate Harlocke Street in a cul de sac. Planning and Zoning recommended that Harlocke Street be terminated in a cul-de-sac. Staff does not agree with the Planning and Zoning recommendation because of the hilly configuration of the area and it would remove an option for providing access to the area. Berlin requested staff to demonstrate their specific concerns to the Council. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended to send a finding to the Board of Supervisors that the rezoning is not consistent with the Area Fringe Agreement Policy. Franklin said due to holiday scheduling the Board of Supervisors had already acted on these items before receiving comments from the City Council. Franklin said Council may wish to review the policy for this area. McDonald noted the policy can be reviewed by the Fringe Commit- tee. The Council agreed to delete these items from the agenda. No discussion. INFOI;hilL COU14CIL DISCUSSION JANUARY 14, 1985 PAGE 3 SITE PLAN FOR VACATED MELROSE AVENUE NEAR LAW SCHOOL: Reel 85-C7, Side 2 Dick Gibson, Director of Facilities Planning L Utilization at the University of Iowa, reviewed the site plan for vacated Melrose Avenue near Law School. The University is proposing a double driveway on the right-of-way of old Melrose which includes a loop to the front of the Law School and a loop into the parking lot. Erdahl stated that plans should include trees and green space. Gibson said he has worked with City staff on details of the intersec- tion. The University will design and build the intersection and handle the storm drainage. The City will pay the University for the street construc- tion. Council members suggested uses for Parcel 64-1A including parking, mixed uses, something elegant, public amenities, skating rink, an amphitheater, areas for dance, community theater, art, and urban housing. Erdahl said there needs to be an anchor store but not necessarily a large department store. Erdahl requested financial information about all of the urban renewal projects. Nancy Seiberling said there is community interest for nice housing in the downtown area. Seiberling also suggested that ZHA contact the Arts Council and Parks and Recreation about uses of the plaza area. PARCEL 64-1A Reel 85-C1, Side 2 j Berlin introduced Mike Dzaman, from Zuchelli, Hunter and Associates, to j review goals in the development of the one remaining urban renewal parcel and obtain ideas from the Council. Based on information from the Council and community, ZHA will develop alternatives for the site. Dzaman explained that ZHA is a multi -disciplinary consulting firm that �. provides consultation in design, economics, market research, law and physical plants. ZHA will do a rigorous technical analysis to determine what is the most logical use of Parcel 64-1A. Dzaman reviewed three phases of their plans to study information to develop plans for Parcel 64-1A. In Phase I, ZHA will gather data from the community and actual site and look at the market potential and parking demands of Parcel 64-1A. Several alternative schemes will be identified and ZHA will then make a recommendation to the City on which use would have the greatest success. Phase II of the study will include a detailed feasibility study, prepare a design concept, prepare a financial analysis of the project, finalize the project and look at how the project will be structured by the City. In Phase III, ZHA and the City will make decisions about how to implement the project and consider the costs, risks and returns. Dzaman said ZHA has three objectives in accomplishing the study: 1. Create a richness and vitality and to generate use of the site that has a positive impact on the City. The project should bring people to the area, intensify use of the downtown mall and create a positive impact on surrounding areas of the city. 2. Satisfy parking needs. 3. Minimize cost or maximize return to the City. Council members suggested uses for Parcel 64-1A including parking, mixed uses, something elegant, public amenities, skating rink, an amphitheater, areas for dance, community theater, art, and urban housing. Erdahl said there needs to be an anchor store but not necessarily a large department store. Erdahl requested financial information about all of the urban renewal projects. Nancy Seiberling said there is community interest for nice housing in the downtown area. Seiberling also suggested that ZHA contact the Arts Council and Parks and Recreation about uses of the plaza area. INFORMAL COUNCIL b1SLUSSION JANUARY 14, 1985 PAGE 4 COUNCIL TIME/AGENDA: 1. (Agenda Item 9.b) McDonald raised concerns about the continued vacancy on the Resources Conservation Commission. McDonald will announce the vacancy at the formal Council meeting. 2. McDonald said the January 24th joint human services meeting has been cancelled. Members of the Joint Human Services Committee will solicit input from their respective bodies, the Board of Supervisors and City 1 Council, and develop recommendations. The City Council will discuss the recommendations at the February 5th informal Council meeting. 3. In response to Baker, Berlin said the Airport Board of Adjustment was iestablished to hear appeals. 4. In response to Baker, Berlin said the north side lighting project will be discussed again. 5. Baker requested Planning and Zoning to consider additional zones. Jansen stated that new or additional zones could be created if the City can demonstrate a need for the zones. 6. In response to Dickson, Berlin will have staff check on City dumping in the old landfill on South Riverside Drive near the airport. 7. Erdahl inquired about the non-functioning entrance doors to the Holiday Inn Hotel. Berlin said the cold weather hampers the use and the hotel wants to minimize their use due to energy conservation. APPOINTMENTS Airport Commission: Jack Ashby EXECUTIVE SESSION: Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, to adjourn to executive session under Section 20 Collective Bargaining to discuss as a public employer, strategy regarding collective bargaining with City employee organizations; as such discussion is exempted from the provisions of Chapter 28A according to Chapter 20.17(3). Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 6/0, Dickson absent. Meeting adjourned to executive session at 9:05 p.m. f i U I J