HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-11-26 Council minutesInformal Council Discussion
November 12, 1985
Informal Council Discussion: November 12, 1985 at 8:10 p.m. in the Council
Chambers at the Civ it Center. Mayor John McDonald presiding.
Council Present: McDonald, Zuber, Strait, Baker, Dickson, Erdahl, Ambrisco.
Staff Present: Berlin, Helling, Karr, Timmins, Lundell, McGonagle, Davidson,
Vf FO_ST,7rlTaTIey.
Tae Recorded: Reel 85-C80, Side 1, 185 -End, Side 2, All; 85-C84, Side 1,
Transit Facility Reel 85-C80, Side 1
McDonald stated this is the first opportunity for Council to discuss the
transit system deficits; no formal action will be taken at this meeting; and
if the Council decides to change current service levels, a public hearing
will be held to allow for public input. Berlin explained the transit deficit
is directly related to other financial considerations of the City. Berlin
stated that the way in which Council brings the level of service together
with the level of revenue to support that service will have a major impact on
how the City prepares the budget; the City does not have as much flexibility
to cover additional operating costs of the transit system; and the amount and
how the transit system is supported will have a major impact on how other
services are financed next year.
McDonald noted that Council received the final report - Iowa City transit
study. Zuber asked who prepared the transit study report. Lundell explained
the actual report was written by Jeff Davidson; information was prepared by
the planning, transit and finance staffs - who met weekly with Berlin; and
Michael Kyte & Associates were hired to organize the framework of the study,
go through ridership statistics and financial information, and analyze that
data. Zuber stated he could not see how the City got into its current finan-
cial position, expressed anger at the report's suggestion to expand services,
noted that the transit deficit would increase another ;126,000 if insurance
costs were not charged out to the general fund, and asked about bus repair
costs. Zuber said the City needs to find a way to serve the public at a
satisfactory level and not create additional deficits to the general fund.
Berlin explained that staff tries to provide all alternatives when a detailed
report is prepared, bus repair costs result from buses becoming out of war-
ranty, is due to the life span of the bus fleet, and due to new bus sophisti-
cation; and insurance costs were not charged back to the Transit Division so
as not to increase the deficit by the $126,000. Berlin said the transit
system is not dissatisfied with the maintenance of Saab buses. Berlin ex-
plained that the City had submitted an U14TA application two years ago for new
buses to lower the age of the bus fleet but that application was not funded
because UMTA said that unallocated funds were still available in Iowa. Berlin
said the City is working with the IDOT and Dubuque to transfer the
unallocated Section 9 funds to Iowa City. In response to Strait, Berlin said
the City was aware of the trend in ridership and the transit situation should
not be viewed in isolation.
I
Berlin stated the amount of support needed for transit, the amount of in-
creases resulting from GO bond issuance and the amount of tort liability
increases will determine the general fund levy and property tax increase
relationship.
Bill Peterson, representing Iowa City bus drivers, read a statement support-
ing a policy to maintain the bus system and offered to work with Council when
decisions are made about the transit system. Baker inquired about promotion
of the bus system. Peterson suggested that staff should explore ways to
increase advertising and inform the public about the transit system. Ambrisco
said he is receptive to receiving input from a representative of the bus
drivers. In response to Strait, Peterson stated bus drivers did not give
input in the preparation of the transit study. Berlin stated the Transit
Division has a quality circle. In response to Erdahl, Peterson explained
that personnel director Anne Carroll was instrumental in establishing the
quality circle. McGonagle said the quality circle program was organized
several months ago, seven drivers and two supervisors are members, members
received 40 hours training by the Public Affairs Institute at the University
of Iowa, and the quality circle works to resolve non -contractual workplace
problems that exist at the transit facility. McGonagle noted that driver
input was requested and that a memo was posted asking for suggestions from
bus drivers concerning routes. In response to Baker, McGonagle stated
$3,000-$5,000 a year is spent on promotions, radio advertisements are used
during the Christmas season to encourage people to ride the bus, transit
information is given to University groups and the Welcome Wagon, and the
Transit Division is trading radio use for some advertisements. Ambrisco
asked if. area shopping center associations have been contacted. McGonagle
said the associations previously were not interested in working to promote
bus ridership but are now more interested due to the lack of available park-
ing in the downtown area.
Strait asked McGonagle what proposed alternatives would be the best solution.
McGonagle said his first reaction would be to not change the system and
increase property taxes but that it is his job to implement the policies
established by Council. Ambrisco asked about the amount of revenue lost
because of free ride programs. McGonagle said $20,000-$30,000 is lost.
McGonagle noted that the federal law mandates that the City can only charge
elderly and handicapped persons a maximum of one-half fare during non -peak
times. McGonagle said there are two choices: do you give transit service to
people who use it the most or to people who need it the most. Zuber asked
how a decline in the University of Iowa enrollment would impact on bus rider-
ship. McGonagle stated that ridership would probably decline with a decrease
in University of Iowa enrollment and a recent decline in ridership was caused
by the large number of apartments that have been built near downtown and
people's lack of concern regarding fuel prices. Ambrisco stated he has
noticed night bus ridership is low and asked if small vehicles could be used.
McGonagle said small vehicles would not be cost effective. Erdahl and
McDonald noted that night bus service provides transportation for people that
depend on buses. In response to Dickson, McGonagle said bus maintenance
costs are $3 per mile.
Gary Sanders stated that ridership would decline if bus fares increase,
Council should be committed to treat transit as a human service, bus fares
should be lowered during off-peak use, parking meters should be increased,
merchants should give out bus passes, and there should be a vehicle tax.
Erdahl inquired about the $309,000 administrative staff expense listed in all
of the proposed alternatives. Lundell said the $309,000 applies to only
transit alternative administration.
rDavidson talternative
e A5 addressthesubstantialadministrativestaffchangesthat have
been made and are still being evaluated at this time. Dickson asked if the
City has anticipated federal and state grant cutbacks. Davidson said the
City is anticipating 10-15% decrease in federal operating assistance and a
slight increase in state assistance. Erdahl asked when did ridership level
off. McGonagle explained that ridership peaked and started to decrease in
FY83. Erdahl asked if there any correlations between bus fare increases and
ridership decreases. Davidson said there was an initial impact, then a
leveling off of ridership but no permanent affects due to fare increases.
Davidson explained that other factors have a greater impact on the ridership.
Erdahl asked if ridership could be increased• if fares were reduced during
off-peak periods. Davidson said it would be difficult for ridership to
increase enough to cover losses in revenue by utilizing one-half bus fare
rides. Erdahl suggested that Transit Division experiment with fare amounts to
increase ridership. Davidson said that other communities have a surcharge
during peak periods to encourage people to ride during off-peak periods.
McDonald asked how much would property taxes be increased if the City in-
creased the transit levy to its maximum. Vitosh explained 2% of the total 6%
tax increases would go to transit. McDonald inquired about property tax
increases in proposed alternativbs A2 and U. Vitosh said that if the City
continues to fund transit service at the same level of service by increasing
the transit levy to 54t and funding the remainder with property tax levy;
increased tort liability levy to cover insurance costs; and increased debt
service levy to cover bond issues, that property tax would need to be in-
creased 23%. Vitosh said the Council's decision on transit funding will have
a major impact on the general fund. In response to Zuber, Vitosh said 51%
increase in the proposed alternative A2 does not include insurance costs.
Zuber inquired about farebox revenues and ridership projections as listed in
the transit report. Davidson said he will check those figures.
Baker asked if revenues received from parking in excess of the 1.25 covenant
requirement could be used for transit funding. Vitosh explained the City is
required to meet the bonding restrictions and that any surplus funds are
available to Council to allocate for any legal expenditure. Vitosh said the
parking revenues should be able to cover the 1.25 covenant requirements,
bonds still need to be issued for the three-level addition to the Dubuque
Street parking ramp, and if the City plans to build another parking facility,
excess parking revenue funds are pledged for payment of the bonds to build
such a facility. Baker inquired about the correlation between parking ramp
rates and bus ridership. Vitosh said rates could be raised to obtain surplus
parking revenues that could be used to fund the transit system. Zuber re-
quested a comparison of growth in parking/parking revenues and bus ridership.
In response to Erdahl, Vitosh said parking has steadily increased since the
ramp was built downtown and rarely are parking ramps completely full. Berlin
stated the housing pattern has impacted on parking and ridership. Baker
requested more information about parking rate increases.
4
McDonald suggested that alternatives #1 and 05 from the transit report be
eliminated from consideration by Council. Berlin said staff will present
additional information to Council regarding transit levy increases. McDonald
noted that Council needs to make decisions within two to three weeks on the
transit fund because of its impact on other City budgets. Berlin said an-
other discussion will be scheduled.
McDonald thanked transit drivers for their input.
Council Time Reel 85-C84, Side 1
1. Strait inquired about dumping at Russell's Salvage Yard. Berlin said
staff will provide information to Council.
2. Zuber inquired about the odor in the board room at the new transit facil-
ity. McGonagle stated repairs were done but he will check the situation
again.
3. Baker requested the three-way stop at Dodge and Kirkwood be reinstalled.
Staff will report.
4. Baker requested an article regarding free public libraries be sent to
Council and suggested staff contact Riley Grimes for that article.
Meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
OFFICIAL COUNCIL ACTIONS - 11/12/85
The cost of publishing the following
proceedings & claims is f
Cumulative cost for this ca en ar year tor
said publication is $
Iowa City Coun—cTT� special mtg.,
11/12/85, at 6:30 P.M. in the City Council
Chambers of the Civic Center. Mayor
McDonald presiding. Councilmembers pres-
ent: Ambrisco, Baker, Dickson, Erdahl
(7:25), McDonald, Strait, Zuber. Absent:
None.
The Mayor announced the omission of
item 2e(2) in the Consent Calendar for
separate discussion. Moved and seconded
that the following items and recommenda-
tions in the Consent Calendar be received,
or approved and/or adopted as amended:
Approval of Official Actions of
the regular meeting of 10/22/85, and
the special meeting of 11/4/85, as
published, subject to correction, as
recommended by the City Clerk.
Minutes of Boards and Commissions:
Mayor's Youth Employment Bd.
-10/9/85; Sr. Center Comm. - 9/1/85;
Airport Comm. - 10/10/85; Historic
Preservation Comm. - 10/9/85; Civil
Service Comm. - 10/9/85, 10/25/85; Bd.
of Adjustment Comm. - 8/14/85; Broad-
band Telecommunications Comm.
-9/17/85; Housing Appeals Bd. -
10/8/85; CCN Com. - 10/15/85.
Permit Motions: Class C Liquor
License and Sunday Sales for The
Ground Round, 830 S. Riverside Drive.
Class E Beer Permit and Sunday Sales
for Wine Warehouse Inc., 409 South
Gilbert Street. Class B Wine Permit
for Things & Things & Things, Inc.,
130 South Clinton Street.
Motions approved as follows:
Recommendations of the Design Review
Committee: (1) the Committee recom-
mends approval for the landscaping,
lighting and facia signage design
plans for 325 E. Washington Street
(Old Elk's Building); (2) the Commit-
tee recommends approval of the canopy
replacement application for 112 E.
College Street (Buc's).
Official Council Actions
November 12, 1985
Page 2
Resolutions: RES. 85-322, ACCEPT-
ING THE WORK FOR THE IOWA AVENUE
BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT,
BRM -4072-(1)--8N-52.
William Halstead appeared re item
2e(2) which was deleted from the Consent
Calendar. After discussion, moved and
seconded to adopt RES. 85-323 AFFIRMING AN
EMPLOYEE DISCHARGE.
A public hearing was held on an ordi-
nance to create a research development
park (RDP) zone.
A public hearing was held on an ordi-
nance to rezone 3.74 acres from I-1 to
CC -2 for Owens Brush Incorporated for
property located northwest of Mall Drive
adjacent to the Chicago, Rock Island and
Pacific Railroad.
Moved and seconded that the ordinance
to rezone 3.74 acres from I-1 to CC -2 of
property owned by Owens Brush, Inc. on
Mall drive, be given first vote for pas-
sage. The Mayor declared the motion
carried.
Moved and seconded that the ordinance
enabling the Building Official to issue a
temporary Certificate of Occupancy, be
given first vote for passage. The Mayor
declared the motion carried.
Moved and seconded that the ordinance
for Planned Development Housing (PDH -8) on
7.44 acres for Melrose Lake Apartments
located on Woodside Drive extended, be
given second vote for passage. The Mayor
declared the motion carried.
Staffinember Franklin noted the public
hearing scheduled for 11/19 on the 1985
Neighborhood Open Space Plan Addendum to
the 1983 Comprehensive Plan would be
deferred.
The recommendations of the Corrmittee
on Community Needs noted as follows: (1)
the Committee on Community Needs recom-
mends that the City Council not extend the
"403" (CDBG) area boundary to include the
900 block of North Gilbert Street. Coun-
cil will schedule this matter for discus-
sion and notify Deborah Bayer; (2) the
Committee on Community Needs recommends
that the City Council extend the acquisi-
tion deadline for Miller/Orchard Park to
December 1, 1985. If by that date an
option on the property has not been se-
i
Official Council Aeti--.
November 12, 1985
Page 3
cured, CCN recommends that the funds for
this project revert back to the CDBG
program. Zuber questioned when the funds
would revert back to CCN. The Mayor
stated the matter should be settled within
the next few weeks; (3) the Committee on
Community Needs recommends that the City
Council fund the following 1986 CDBG
priorities in the amount given below:
Emergency Housing Project Repairs,
$8,000; Housing Modifications for
Low -Income Frail Elderly, $8,000;
Comprehensive Housing Rehabilitation 8
Weatherization, $180,000; Mayor's
Youth Employment Program, $26,860;
Shared Housing Program Continuation,
$20,000; Community Support Services
and Day Treatment Program - Mid -East-
ern Iowa Community Mental Health
Center, $115,000; Synthesis Studio
Improvement/United Action for Youth,
$6,000; Elderly Home Services Coordi-
nator/Case Manager, $35,000; Mark
Twain School Playground Revitaliza-
tion, $1,000; Crisis Center Food Bank
Facility, $156,500; Residential Eld-
erly/Handicapped Accessibility Pro-
ject, $20,000; Curb Ramp Installation,
$5,000; Acquisition of Ralston Creek
Open Space, $80,000; Goodwill Indus-
tries Renovation, $127,000; Terrill
Mill Park Improvements, $1,200; North
Market Square Handicapped Play Area,
$3,000; Systems Unlimited, Inc.,
$63,640; Handicare, Inc. Expansion,
$49,000; General Program Administra-
tion, $107,000; Contingency Fund,
$36,600; Total, $1,048,800.
A public hearing was held to receive
citizen comments on the use of 1986 Commu-
nity Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
The following people appeared: Karen
Hradek, 924 Hudson; Fredine Branson, 1104
Tower Ct.; David Schuldt, 202 N.
Westminister; Tom Zenge, 1117 Denbigh;
Verne Kelley and Carol Lear, 505 E. Col-
lege; James Harris, 219 Ronalds St.; Susie
Norbeck, 1733 Winston Dr., Ray Huston,
R.R. 6; Susan Horowitz, 1129 Kirkwood
Ave.; Ruth Adie, 2104 Taylor Dr.; Ann
Riley, 1918 -12th Ave. (Coralville); Jill
Neidig, 2071 S. Ridge Or.; Merle rummel,
314 W. Benton; David Leshtz, 1411 Sheridan
�:.. ,ns
Iles c. c.^ °, :98...
Page 4
Ave. Moved and seconded to accept and
place on file the following correspon-
dence: Jack Zerwas, President, Emergency
Housing Corporation; memo from Fred
Krause, Chairperson, Iowa City Housing
Commission; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Scott;
Karen Hradek, Chairperson, Miller/Orchard
Neighborhood; copy of Daily Iowan article
by David Leshtz.
the Mayor announced the following
vacancy: PdZ Can. - one vacancy for an
unexpired term beginning 1/1/86 and ending
5/1/88. This appointment will be made at
the 12/17/85 meeting of the City Council.
Moved and seconded to adopt the fol-
lowing resolutions: RES. 85-324, REPEALING
RESOLUTION 77-283 AND ESTABLISHING REVISED
FEES FOR TAXICAB STANDS; RES. 85-325,
REPEALING RESOLUTION 83-164 AND ESTABLISH-
ING REVISED FEES FOR TAXICAB LICENSE DECAL
AND TAXICAB DRIVER'S LICENSE; RES. 85-326,
REPEALING RESOLUTION 85-39 AND ESTABLISH-
ING REVISED FEES FOR MANUFACTURED HOUSING
PARK LICENSES.
Moved and seconded to adopt RES.
85-327, RESOLUTION OF INTENT AND PROPOSAL
TO DISPOSE OF STORM SEWER EASEMENT IN
BLOCK 7, BRAVERMAN CENTER, AND SETTING
PUBLIC HEARING ON SAID DISPOSITION, FOR
11/19.
Moved and seconded to adjourn to
informal session 8:00 P.M.
A more complete script ion of Council
activities is on fil In
hfj of t
City Clerk.
s/J D LD, MAYOR
s/MAS N K. KARR, 4LE
RK
Ve�RK;F
Submitted for publication 11/22/85
COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
November 12, 1985
Iowa City Council, special mtg., 11/12/85, at. 6:30 P.M. in the City
Council Chambers of the Civic Center. Mayor McDonald presiding.
Councilmembers present: Ambrisco, Baker, Dickson, Erdahl (1:25), McDonald,
Strait, Zuber. Absent: None. Staffinembers present: Berlin, Helling,
Timmins, Karr, Franklin, Carroll, Cain, Moen, Hencin, Penney, Lundell,
Nugent. Tape recorded on tape 85-C78, Side 1, 377 -End and Side 2, All;
85-C83, Side 1, 1-174.
The Mayor announced the omission of item 2e(2) in the Consent Calendar
for separate discussion. Moved by Strait, seconded by Dickson, that the
following items and recommendations in the Consent Calendar be received, or
approved and/or adopted as amended:
Approval of Official Actions of the regular meeting of 10/22/85, and
the special meeting of 11/4/85, as published, subject to correction, as
recommended by the City Clerk.
Minutes of Boards and Commissions: Mayor's Youth Employment Bd.
-10/9/85; Sr. Center Conn. - 9/1/85; Airport Comm. - 10/10/85; Historic
Preservation Comm. - 10/9/85; Civil Service Comm. - 10/9/85, 10/25/85;-
Bd.
0/25/85;Bd. of Adjustment Comm. - 8/14/85; Broadband Telecommunications. Comm.
-9/17/85; Housing Appeals Bd. - 10/8/85; CCN Com. - 10/15/85.
Permit Motions: Approving Class C Liquor License and Sunday Sales
for The Ground Round, Inc. dba The Ground Round, 830 S. Riverside Drive.
Approving Class E Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for Richard James Hamann
dba Wine WineWarehouse
foroThomascA, Wegm n409 outh ba Thingst&SThings & Approving
Incass B
130
South Clinton Street.
Motions approved as follows: Recommendations of the Design Review
Committee: (1) the Committee recommends approval for the landscaping,
lighting and facia signage design plans for 325 E. Washington Street (Old
Elk's Building); (2) the Committee recommends approval of the canopy
replacement application for 112 E. College Street (Buc's).
Resolutions:
AVENUE B
BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTIONPROJECT BBRM-4072-(1)--8N-52.M3, ACCEPTING
HE IOWAORK FOR
Affirmative roll call unanimous, 6/0, Erdahl absent. The Mayor declared the
motion carried, 6/0, Erdahl absent.
William Halstead appeared re item 2e(2) which was deleted from the Con-
sent Calendar. After discussion, moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, to
adopt RES. 85-323, Bk. 88, pp. 784-785, AFFIRMING AN EMPLOYEE DISCHARGE.
Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 6/0, Erdahl absent. The Mayor declared
the resolution adopted.
Complete Council Activities
November 12, 1985
Page 2
A public hearing was held on an ordinance to create a research develop-
ment park (ROP) zone. No one appeared.
A public hearing was held on an ordinance to rezone 3.74 acres from I-1
to CC -2 for Owens Brush Incorporated for property located northwest of Mall
Drive adjacent to the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. No one
appeared.
Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, that the ordinance to rezone 3.74
acres from I-1 to CC -2 of property owned by Owens Brush, Inc. on eared Mall drive,
be given first vote for passage. Staffinember Franklin app
ed the
applicant had requested the readings be waived. Baker indicated he would
same night ash
theopublico
hearing.ht as heThe eMayor declared s not support othe matterting on a motion carried,
5/1' with the
followingndi Nisiof roll call ays Baker Absent: eErdaAyes: McDonald, Strait,
Erdahl.
Zube
Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Dickson, that the ordinance enabling he
Building Official to issue a temporary Certificate of Occupancy,
be given
first vote
for Mayor declared the motion roll
call vote unanimous, 6/0, Erdahl
absent
Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, that the ordinance for Planned
Development Housing (PDH -8) on 7.44 acres for Melrose Lake Apartments locate
on declaredsithe motion carried, 4/2, withbe given sthend vote followi go divisions of rollThe call
vote: Ayes: Zuber, Ambrisco, McDonald, Strait. Nays: Baker, Dickson.
Absent: Erdahl.
Staffinember Franklin noted the public hearing scheduled for 11/19 on the
1985 Neighborhood Open Space Plan Addendum to the 1983 Comprehensive Plan
would be deferred. The Planning & Zoning Commission would not have a recom-
mendation prepared by that scheduled time.
The recommendations of the Committee on Co dun that Netheeds
City(
Councilas not
(1) the Committee an Community
extend the "403" (CDBG) area boundary to include the 900 block of North
Gilbert Street. Council will schedule this matter for discussion and notify
Deborah Bayer; (2) the Committee on Community Needs recommends that the City
council ecember
1, 1985.eXIf tendthe
that date an option on dnothe oproperty /has hnot been secuard Park to red, CCN
recommends that the funds for this project revert back to the CDBG program.
funds would revert back to CCN. he Maor the Cortmitteet
Zuber questioned when then
the matter should be settled within the next few weeks; (3)
Community Needs recommends that the City Council fund the following 1986 CDBG
priorities in the amount given below:
8 000
5 ,
Emergency Housing Project Repairs 8,000
Housing Modifications for Low -Income Frail Elderly 180,000
Comprehensive Housing Rehabilitation & Weatherization 26,860
Mayor's Youth Employment Program 20,000
Shared Housing Program Continuation
r'
Complete Council Activities
November 12, 1985
Page -3
Community Support Services and Day Treatment Program;
Mid -Eastern Iowa Community Mental Health Center
115,000
Synthesis Studio Improvement/United Action for Youth
6,000
Elderly Home Services Coordinator/Case Manager
35,000
Mark Twain School Playground Revitalization
1,000
Crisis Center Food Bank Facility
156,500
Residential Elderly/Handicapped Accessibility Project
20,000
Curb Ramp Installation
5,000
Acquisition of Ralston Creek Open Space
80,000
Goodwill Industries Renovation
127,000
Terrill Mill Park Improvements
1,200
North Market Square Handicapped Play Area
3,000
Systems Unlimited, Inc.
63,640
Handicare, Inc. Expansion
49,000
General Program Administration
107,000
Contingency Fund
36 600
Total
$1,Od8,�8uu
A public hearing was held to receive citizen comments on the use of 1986
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Erdahl arrived 7:25 p.m.
Thg Mayor announced no decision would be made tonight on allocations. The
matter will be scheduled for informal Council discussion on 11/18 and final
Council action on 11/19. The following people appeared: Karen Hradek, 924
Hudson; Fredine Branson, 1104 Tower Ct.; David Schuldt, 202 N. Westminister;
Tom Zenge, 1117 Denbigh; Verne Kelley and Carol Lear, 505 E. College; James
Harris, 219 Ronalds St.; Susie Norbeck, 1733 Winston Dr., Ray Huston, R.R. 6;
Susan Horowitz, 1129 Kirkwood Ave.; Ruth Adie, 2104 Taylor Dr.; Ann Riley,
1918 -12th Ave. (Coralville); Jill Neidig, 2071 S. Ridge Dr.; Merle Trummel,
314 W. Benton; David Leshtz, 1411 Sheridan Ave. Moved by Strait, seconded by
Dickson, to accept and place on file the following correspondence: Jack
Zerwas, President, Emergency Housing Corporation; memo from Fred Krause,
Chairperson, Iowa City Housing Commission; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Scott; Karen
Hradek, Chairperson, Miller/Orchard Neighborhood; copy of Dail Iowan article
by David Leshtz. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimo�/0, all
Councilmembers present.
The Mayor announced the following vacancy: P&Z Comm. - one vacancy for
an unexpired term beginning 1/1/86 and ending 5/1/88. This appointment will
be made at the 12/17/85 meeting of the City Council.
Moved by Strait, seconded by Dickson, to adopt the following resolutions:
RES. 85-324, Bk. 88, p. 324, REPEALING RESOLUTION 77-283 AND ESTABLISHING
REVISED FEES FOR TAXICAB STANDS; RES . 85-325, Bk. 88, p. 787, REPEALING
RESOLUTION 83-164 AND ESTABLISHING REVISED FEES FOR TAXICAB LICENSE DECAL AND
TAXICAB DRIVER'S LICENSE; RES. 85-326, Bk. 88, p. 788, REPEALING RESOLUTION
85-39 AND ESTABLISHING REVISED FEES FOR MANUFACTURED HOUSING PARK LICENSES.
Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers present. The
Mayor declared the resolutions adopted.
Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Strait, to adopt RES. 85-327, Bk. 88, pp.
789-795, RESOLUTION OF INTENT AND PROPOSAL TO DISPOSE OF STORM SEWER EASEMENT
IN BLOCK 7, BRAVERMAN CENTER, AND SETTING PUBLIC HEARING ON SAID DISPOSITION,
FOR 11/19. Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 7/0, all Councilmembers
present. The Mayor declared the resolution adopted.
7
z
COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
November 26, 1985
Iowa City Council, special mtg., 11/26/85, at 6:40 PM at the Civic Cen-
ter. Mayor McDonald presiding. Councilmembers present: Ambrisco, Baker,
Erdahl, McDonald, Zuber. Absent: Dickson, Strait. Staffinembers present:
Berlin, Melling, Timmins, Karr. Council minutes tape recorded on Tape
85-C83, Side 2, 208-269.
Moved by Zuber, seconded by Baker, that the following items and recomnen-
dations in the Consent Calendar be received, or approved, and/or adopted as
presented.
Approval of Official Actions of the special meeting of 11/12/85, as
published, subject to correction, as recommended by the City Clerk.
Minutes of Boards and Commissions: Urban Environment Ad Hoc Comm. -
10/8/85; Sr. Center Comm. - 10/9/85; Bd. of Adjustment -10/9/85; P&Z
Comm. - 11/7/85.
Permit Motions: Approving Class B Beer Permit and Sunday Sales for
Armond Pagliai's dba Pagliai Pizza Ltd., 302 E. Bloomington St.
Affirmative roll call vote unanimous, 5/0, Dickson, Strait absent. The Mayor
declared the motion carried.
The recommendations of the Urban Environment Ad Hoc Committee noted as
follows: (1) The UEAHC recommends that the City Council appoint a member of
the Parks and Recreation Comm. to serve on the UEAHC, and that the membership
status of the Chamber of Commerce Environmental Concerns Committee represen-
tative be changed from non-voting to voting. (2) The UEAHC recommends that
as the Planning and Zoning Comm. and the City Council consider the Neighbor-
hood Open Space Plan and Ordinance, priority be given to the preservation of
natural features and environmentally sensitive areas.
Moved by Zuber, seconded by Ambrisco, to adopt RES. 85-340, Bk. 88, pp.
864-869. AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT REVENUE
BONDS (SOUTHGATE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC. PROJECT) OF THE CITY OF IOWA CITY,
IOWA, IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ;1000,000; THE EXECU-
TION AND DELIVERY OF A LENDER LOAN AGREEMENT WITH FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF IOWA
CITY, IOWA, PROVIDING THE TERMS AND SALE OF SUCH BOND; THE EXECUTION AND
DELIVERY OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH SOUTHGATE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC. PROVID-
ING FOR THE REPAYMENT OF THE LOAN OF THE PROCEEDS OF SUCH BOND, AND RELATED
MATTERS. Affirmative roll call unanimous, 5/0, Dickson, Strait absent. The
Mayor declared the resolution adopted.
Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Zuber. to adopt RES. 85-341, Bk. 88, pp.
870-974. AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT REVENUE
BONDS (THE ECONOMY ADVERTISING COMPANY PROJECT) OF THE CITY OF IOWA CITY,
IOWA, IN AN AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $1,800,000; THE EXECU-
TION AND DELIVERY OF A LENDER LOAN AGREEMENT WITH HILLS BANK AND TRUST COM-
PANY PROVIDING THE TERMS AND SALE OF SUCH BOND; THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY
OF A LOAN AGREEMENT WITH THE ECONOMY ADVERTIST14G COMPANY PROVIDING FOR THE
Council Activities
November 26, 1985
Page 2
REPAYMENT OF THE LOAN OF THE PROCEEDS OF SUCH BOND, AND RELATED MATTERS.
Affirmative roll call unanimous; 5/0; Dickson, Strait absent: The Mayor
declared the resolution adopted.
Moved by Zuber, seconded by Baker, that the ordinance amending Chapter 2,
Article II of the Municipal Code of Iowa City, Iowa, by amending Section 2-20
thereof to provide some flexibility in setting the date for the City Council
Organizations Meeting, be given first vote for passage. The Mayor declared i
the motion carried, 4/0, with the following division of roll call vote: Ayes:
Zuber, Ambrisco, Baker, McDonald. Nays: None. Abstaining: Erdahl. Absent:
Dickson, Strait.
Moved by Ambrisco, seconded by Erdahl, to ad'ourn at 6:45 PM. The Mayor
declared the motion carried unanimously*OHNMCDO 5/0, Dic son, Strait absent.
NALD, MAYOR
ATTEST: �ijQ„ .
RI K. K
Informal Council Discussion
Goal Setting Session
November 25, 1985
Goal Setting Session: November 25, 1985, 2:30 p.m. at the Highlander.
Tim Shields moderator.
Council Present: Ambrisco, McDonald, Baker, Strait, Zuber, Dickson (3:05p.m.)
Councilmember-elect Courtney.
Staff Present: Berlin, Helling, Timmins, Karr.
Tape-recorded: 85-C85, Side 2, 27 -End; 85-C87, Sides 1 and 2; 85-C88, Side 1.
Councilmembers discussed goals for FY87. Tim Shields, Institute of Public
Affairs, to provide detailed minutes.
Informal Council Discussion
November 26, 1985
Informal Council Discussion: November 26, 1985, at 6:45 p.m. in the Council
Chambers o e ivic en er. Mayor John McDonald presiding.
Council Present: McDonald, Ambrisco, Baker, Erdahl, Zuber, Councilmember-
e ecte ect CCourtneT_ Absent: Dickson, Strait.
Staff Present: Berlin, Melling, Timmins, Karr, Zehr.
Airport Commission members: Tiffany, Sokol, George, Lewis.
Tape-recorded: Reel 85-C86, Side 1, 337 -End, Side 2, all.
AIRPORT COMMISSION - REVENUE SOURCES: Reel 85-C86, Side 1
Tiffany introduced Airport Commission members and the Airport Manager.
Tiffany said the Airport Commission has been looking at ways to raise reve-
nue, including a commuter feasibility study and has generated revenues by
passing a self -fueling ordinance and by farmland rental.
Tiffany stated the Airport Commission feels that the proposal to charge for
parking at the airport would raise only an insignificant amount of funds and
there are more productive means to gain revenue with respect to the airport
related development on land now zoned public. McDonald inquired about the
Commuter Airline Study. Tiffany said a commuter airline is a possible source
of revenue, but improvements at the airport are needed.
McDonald asked about the airport's budget. Berlin explained that staff is
waiting to work on next year's budget until Council completes goal -setting
discussions; the airport's operating budget is only a small portion of the
total expenditure at the airport; and the airport's capital improvement
program (Compliance Project - runway extension) is 100 percent funded by
property tax. Tiffany stated that 37% of the budget is generated by users
fees and the City's portion of the airport's operating budget is $85,000.
Zuber asked if the airport could operate with cuts from the City. Zehr said
with cuts in funding the airport would need to offer reduced services. Zuber
emphasized that funding cuts need to be made.
Ambrisco asked about the airport sources of revenue. Zehr stated revenue is
gained from farmland, flowage fees, rent from T- and corporate hangars, shop
and terminal rents and office space rent. Zehr explained that the airport
will raise an estimated $90,000 in revenue. Ambrisco inquired about airplane
landing and parking fees. Zehr said the FBO charges $25 a month and $2 per
night for airplane tiedowns and the Flying Services provide additional help
on football Saturdays and charges $5 for parking on that day. Ambrisco asked
if the City could charge a landing fee on football Saturdays. Zehr said
additional staff would be needed to collect a landing fee. In response to
Erdahl, Zehr said 40 to 50 airplanes use the airport on football Saturdays.
Baker suggested working with the FBO to collect the fee. Council members
discussed utilizing an honor system to collect landing fees.
ENNE
Informal Council Discussion
November 26, 1985
Page 2
Tiffany stated the airport has within its means to become self-sufficient
with two to three additional corporate hangars. The cost of construction of
corporate hangars are 100% user generated through long term leases with the
tenants. Zehr asked Council if they want the Airport Commission to develop
surplus land to generate revenue. Baker said industrial and commercial office
uses would be appropriate, not retail development. Tiffany said development
would be airport related.
Erdahl asked if any airports of comparable size have landing fees. Zehr said
general aviation airports such as Des Moines have landing fees for only air
carriers. Erdahl asked what services would be cut if the budget was reduced
by 20 percent. Tiffany said services would be kept up and 20 percent cuts
would affect maintenance in other areas. Tiffany emphasized the Airport
Commission is looking at ways to generate revenue and wants Council support
in these activities.
Ambrisco asked what services are offered at the airport. Zehr explained that
airport work includes servicing the radio beacon, keeping 35 hangars opera-
tional, working on the boiler system and other utilities in the terminal
building, maintaining runway lights, mowing grass, plowing snow, spreading
sand, maintaining equipment and reviewing building permits. In response to
Zuber, Zehr said the snowblower and building used to store the snowblower
cost 58,000 and $60,000 respectively. Zuber stated his concerns about air-
port costs.
George noted that the airport has a special working relationship with the FBO
that has developed over a long period of time even though the agreement with
the FBO has specific requirements regarding fees, etc.
McDonald stated that any rezoning of airport property would need Council
approval. Tiffany stated the Airport Commission wants to work with the City
Council in development of the airport property. Zehr stated the Airport
Commission would identify compatible. uses, zone the area appropriately and
then approach industry. Erdahl suggested the City and Airport Commission
work with developers to insure good landscaping and aesthetic development.
Erdahl stated contract zoning could be used to encourage reasonable develop-
ment. Ambrisco stated his commitment to Iowa City's general aviation air-
port.
Erdahl said the psychological aspect of charging fees should be considered
and collecting fees may be helpful. Zuber stated that people would be will-
ing to pay a $10 landing fee. Zuber noted increasing minor fees has allowed
the City to generate $265,000.
McDonald stated the Council agrees that the Airport Commission should pursue
development of the airport property. Erdahl recommended that Zehr meet with
Timmins to discuss contract zoning. Zuber stated that perspective tenants of
the airport land would want help from the City with respect to infrastructure
needs.
Baker inquired about land acquisition and FAA participation. Zehr stated
that land is currently being appraised, land acquisition will cost an esti-
mated $160,000, and the cost of the land is eligible for 90 percent FAA
reimbursement once the airport is in compliance. McDonald noted that the
.T-4le-I
Informal Council Discussion
Aovember 26, 1985
Page 3
- airport compliance project should be completed next year: Baker asked about
additional improvements to the airport. Zehr explained that -there could be
$243 million in improvements. Tiffany said the FAA Is consfderfng-install-
'-ing an automatic weather service and instrument landing system.
COUNCIL TIME: Reel 85-C86, Side 2
1. Berlin stated Councilmembers received a November 5, 1985, memo regarding
sidewalk snow removal from bridges and culverts. Berlin stated that the
proposal is to clean off sidewalks on major bridges and culverts. Erdahl
raised concerns about the City's responsibility under current jurisdic-
tional agreements with the State to take care of the bridges. Berlin
stated no changes will be made until the Legal staff addresses those
concerns.
2. Berlin said a memo will be sent to Councilmembers regarding budget/gen-
eral funds separate from the transit.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.