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MINUTES
RESOURCES CONSERVATION COMMISSION
DECEMBER 12, 1983 7:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER - ENGINEERING CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Singerman, Levy, Parsons, McPeak
MEMBERS ABSENT: Sheehan, Gartland
STAFF PRESENT: Webb
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The minutes of the meeting of November 7, 1983, were approved by consensus
as presented.
COMMISSION BY-LAWS AND AMENDMENT:
It being the time and place to consider, and vote on, amending the
Commission By -Laws - changing the regular meeting day to the second Monday
instead of second Tuesday of each month - it was moved by Levy and
seconded by McPeak that Resolution 83-1 be adopted. Thereupon, the Chair
called the roll call vote. Motion passed; four ayes, two nays, two absent
and one vacancy. The amendment recommendation, in the form of Resolution
No, 83-1, will be forwarded to the City Council for their action.
FRANCHISE PROPOSAL REVIEW:
The Commission continued to review points of negotiation as outlined in
the Status of Negotiation letter (September 30, 1983 by Jansen/Berlin) to
the Council. Further concensus was obtained on some of the key points.
The chair is continuing to prepare a draft summary. There were no motions
made or votes taken.
OTHER BUSINESS:
The next (special) meeting of the Resources Conservation Commission was
set for Monday, January 9, 1984, at 7:30 p.m., Civic Center Law Library.
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
Tom Gartland, Secretary.
Minutes prepared by: Richard Webb, Energy Coordinator
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
OCTOBER 24, 1983 7:30 P.M.
SENIOR CENTER
71
MEMBERS PRESENT: Watson, Barcelo, Jordison, Futrell, Gill, Scupham, Turner
MEMBERS ABSENT: Felton, Johnson
STAFF PRESENT: Williams, Klein
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER OR STAFF:.
None.
SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION:
I. The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Barcelo at 7:30 P.M.
2. Moved by Jordison and seconded by Gill to approve the minutes of September
26, 1983, as circulated. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Complaints Pending:
A. E/R, B-28-8103. The team met some time during the second week of
October and decided upon remedy. The team chair agreed to write a
paragraph to be inserted in a standard conciliation agreement which
describes the dollar amount the respondents should pay the
complainant.
4. Case for Public Hearing:
A. E/S, 5-13-8002 and 5-19-8003. A hearing officer has been assigned by
the State Civil Rights Commission, who has given staff the dates of
her availability. Staff has been unable to confirm the availability
of the assistant City Attorney who will be representing the Commission
and the complainant.
5. Cases in Legal:
There are three cases in legal.
6. Cases Closed:
Two cases have been closed, both administratively. In the employment -
disability case, the complainant and the respondent satisfactorily
resolved the complaint. In the public accommodation -race case the
complainant did not respond to a letter sent to her by staff asking her for
her cooperation.
70
Human Rights Commission
October 25, 1983
Page 2
i
7. Community Education:
Klein: The newsletter will be distributed in November as requested. The
public service announcements for November have been sent to the radio
stations and to Hawkeye CableVision, and two speaking engagements have
occurred - one to Job Service, the other to the Protective Association for
j Tenants. A meeting with the International Students Association will take
place in the near future. The letter to the construction companies was
i mailed to approximately 76 companies. One response was received from a
gentlemen who objected to one specific sign -making company being mentioned.
Klein called the local employer who allegedly sexually harassed his female
employees. The employer thought perhaps his behavior was misinterpreted
and 'blamed that on cultural differences. He also said he didn't realize
there had been a problem but now he knows. The three Commission vacancies
are being publicized, and Barcelo asked that Commissioners circulate the
announcement regarding not only the Human Rights Commission vacancies but
also the vacancies on all other commissions, so that diversity could be
achieved on all Commissions. Turner has five people she will personally
contact to advise them of the Commission vacancies and perhaps interest
them in applying.
8.. Old Business:
A. Candidates public forum: Six of the nine candidates were there but
there was a low public turn out. All were supportive of the ordinance
revisions. Futrell thanked Klein for her excellent job in setting
ieverything up.
i B. Klein discussed the training she just recently received in Des Moines
coordinated by the State Civil Rights Commission.
I
C. The letter printed in the Press -Citizen from the Klan was briefly
discussed.
9. New Business:
i
A. Williams distributed the brochures describing the Chamber of Commerce
employment workshop and Commissioners were invited to attend.
' B. Watson mentioned the employer's checklist developed by the Chamber's
Human Resources Committee.
C. Williams advised Commissioners of the Association's quarterly meeting
which she would be attending.
10. Staff Report:
A. Staff report was reviewed. Staff was chastized for use of the phrase
"workman's comp" instead of "worker's camp."
11. Next Commission Meeting: November 28.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
73
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 28, 1983 7:30 P.M.
SENIOR CENTER
MEMBERS PRESENT: Jordison, Futrell, Gill, Barcelo, Johnson, Scupham, Watson,
Turner, Felton
mEnAnttS AeSWI: None
STAFF PRESENT: Klein
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
RECCMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER OR STAFF:
None.
SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION:
1. Meeting was called to order at 7:33 p.m. by Chairperson Barcelo.
2. Moved and seconded to approve the minutes of October 24, 1983, as
,circulated. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Complaints pending:
A. E/R 8-28-8103. Settlement has been proposed and both parties are
being contacted. If both agree, the case will cane to closure soon.
B. H/R 7-21-8301. The existence of a conflict between staff's finding
and legal's opinion was noted.
C. H/A 5-20-8301. Team has had one meeting and is as yet unable to
reach a decision. Staff finding differs from legal's, and there are
no Iowa cases on point. Anne will consult with Phyllis regarding the
disparate impact issue.
D. E/R 5-3-8305. Team has net twice and found probable cause, has net
with the complainant to determine remedy and is now attempting to
meet with Respondent.
E. E/R 8-24-8302. Team just recently received the case; no meeting as
of yet.
4. Cases in Legal: There is one case in legal.
5. Cases opened: One case was opened.
73
Human Rights Commission
November 28, 1983
Page 2
6. Connunity Education: Klein told the Commissioners of a story in the
Daily Iowan on our housing rights efforts, which was a positive stroke
for us. She advised Commissioners that both editorial page editors of
the Daily Iowan and Press -Citizen have asked for guest opinions and that
someone should consider writing one. Felton asked whether Commission
publications were being numbered as had been agreed. No, they have not.
Klein will go back and number old ones, and be sure to number any new
ones.
7. Old Business:
Klein gave a brief summary of the Chamber of Commerce Employment workshop
attended by herself and Phyllis Williams, who was the chair. It was
noted that Phyllis was given high ratings for her presentation on civil
rights law in employment.
Watson circulated a letter he has sent to an attorney in Des Moines
asking that she compose a concise legal rebuttal to the City Attorney's
objections to certain points in the proposed ordinance changes.
Discussion of the City Council's delay in dealing with the ordinance
changes ensued. It was decided that we cannot speak at a formal session
of the Council because technically we are not public. Different options
for writing a letter and/or making a public statement expressing our
frustration -to the Council were discussed. The question of whether the
Council can -render the Cr- mission inon?rativP by ignorino its recommenda-
tions was also raised. The Commission decided to send a letter clarify-
ing the present status of the ordinance to the public through the press.
8. New Business:
Three women have applied for the three Commission openings and the only
two men on the Commission will be going off. The Commission is concerned
that it maintain balance and a diversity of races, sexes, etc., and would
like to hold an opening until we get a larger pool of candidates. We
will send a note to the City Council expressing this concern and recom-
mending that more applicants be solicited.
It was asked whether or not a Commissioner could remain working on a case
after their term has expired. The answer is no, but it is recommended to
staff that when cases are given, at least one person on the team should
have at least one year remaining on the Commission.
The Commission will have a brunch for outgoing Commission members on
December 11 at 11:00 a.m. at the Highlander.
The Commission decided that the proposed Housing Code revisions for
Section 805 that would change the designation "boys" and "girls" to
"males" and "females" in labeling statistics for bathroom facilities in
elementary and secondary schools is unnecessary and serves no purpose. If
the labels were "boys" and "women" or "men" and "girls," a change would
have more importance.
73
Human Rights Commission
November 28, 1983
Page 3
Scupham raised the issue of nuclear weapons and war and asked if anyone
on the Commission had thought of it as a civil rights issue. Discussion
followed. While it is not an issue within the Commission's purview, it
is definitely one on which each of us as citizens can take action.
9. Staff Report: Barcelo questioned why a disabled male employed by
University Hospitals had filed with the state rather than being sent to
Affirmative Action at the University. Kelin said that she believed he
had talked with Affirmative Action but wasn't sure and would consider
going through them in the future before filing a complaint with the
stat.
10. Affirmative Action Report for FY83: Johnson expressed the hope that the
new Commission will be more successful in impressing upon personnel the
need for strong affirmative action. The Commission generally Eruct..".
its disappointed that the raw numbers they requested from Personnel were
not included in the report. It was decided to send a letter to Personnel
in February.
11. The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
MINUTES
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER. 1, 1983 1:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
MEMBERS PRESENT: Amert, Berlin, Hayek, McDonald, Perret, Wegman
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
MEMBERS PRESENT: Alexander, Amert, Eckholt, Seiberling, Summerwill,
Wegman
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
MEMBERS ABSENT: Haupert, Lafore, Sinek, Wockenfuss
STAFF PRESENT: Hauer, Helling
COUNCILMEMBERS-ELECT: Strait, Zuber
Meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. Perret stated the purpose of the
meeting was to approve the proposed hotel design or to make specific sugges-
tions on the design. The format of the meeting would be to review and discuss
the plans, invite public comment, and then have the Committees make a decision
as to approve the design plans or detail specific revisions.
Perret requested a presentation from the developer as to the changes in this
design plan from the October 26th design.
Richard Wheeler, the developer's architect, reviewed the major changes which
were primarily the design of the interior and exterior walkways. These changes
included addition of exterior embellishments to make the walkways more visible,
widening of the interior walkway, relocation of the interior stairwell, and an
increased use of glass. He noted that signage for the walkways was still a
problem.
McDonald stated a major concern from the beginning of the design process was
that of the interior access. The Committee knew that having an outdoor
pedestrian walkway presented functional problems to hotel operators so the
Committee had permitted enclosure of the pedestrian walkway. McDonald wondered
why this design did -not conform in terms of the amount of glass or configurati-
on to the original Zuchelli-Hunter 8 Associates (ZHA) design. Wheeler responded
the area McDonald was talking about was the restaurant and lounge area and that
glassing in that area would not yield much visibility. Wheeler noted the walls
separating the public and private lobbies were made of glass and that this
present design affords a great deal of visibility.
McDonald said the ZHA plans showed. a 28' wide doorwell. Wheeler responded by
saying there was the same amount of pedestrian -access area in this design as
the previous designs and this design better identifies the exterior and
interior walkway entrances.
McDonald wanted to know if the doors would be of the air door or automatic
opening door variety. Wheeler said it' was not very practical to ave either
tvp° of door because of the in and ^ut '!irccticn, ^f oecas:r'an t. ..'`iC. With
71dl
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 2
regard to use of air doors, 'Wheeler stated there was a need to have some way of
closing off the doors when they are not in heavy use. The glass walls make it
difficult to install air doors. An automatic door, especially the sliding door
variety, takes a good deal of space and would restrict the entrance space. The
current design plans show manually operated doors.
McDonald asked about exterior materials. Wheeler said the developer proposed
using Portland cement plaster (also known as stucco) in a light gray/white
color. A sample of the proposed color and design was shown to the Committee.
Dark brown glass is to be used in the dormitory tower windows with bronze
anodized frames. The windows will be set back four inches from the exterior
wall. Wheeler noted Portland cement stucco is used extensively in Minneapolis
on a number of highrise buildings.
Hayek asked if the cement stucco had a tendency to break down, especially in
freeze -thaw conditions. Wheeler stated this did happen on buildings without
control joints; when a building settled, cracks would occur in the building
exterior which start the problems Hayek described. Wheeler said that control
joints eliminate foundation settling problems. In response to a question on
how color is applied, Wheeler said that the color applied on the third coating
of material and it is easy to maintain color consistency.
Seiberling wanted to know how this gray -white color choice matched other
buildings in the area. Wheeler stated several buildings in the area have
similar colors and that the mass of this building is minimized with the use of
a lighter color. Wheeler noted this color was selected by the developer but
that other colors could be used if the Committee so chose. Seiberling felt if
a gray, tone were selected, it should be more like the limestone color of Old
Capitol. Wheeler stated those colors are more "cold" and this was not desir-
able on the hotel building.
Hayek noted he shared McDonald's concerns on the pedestrian access. Hayek felt
the present plans were a great improvement over the previous plans submitted to
the Committee. He requested information on the window treatment. Wheeler
stated the windows were recessed about four inches from the exterior wall
surface in the dormitory tower. Anodized frames would be used around each
window to create a band effect.
In response to a question what the north• facade would look like, Wheeler
reviewed the location of the restaurant greenhouse which is to be constructed
with curved glass. Wheeler stated a door will most .likely be placed in the
greenhouse to allow for outdoor food service. The single door at the east end
of the north facade is an entrance to the second floor health club directly
above the restaurant area.
Seiberling remarked these design plans showed great advances over the previous
designs. She was concerned about the relationship of the second floor windows
to the first floor windows. She wondered if the first and second floor windows
could have the same vertical window lines. Wheeler noted it was possible but
the curvature of the first floor glass windows presented problems in that it
would not be desirable from a design standpoint to try to match the vertical
7�/
JOINT MEETING Of HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 3
window lines. He felt it was more important to have the horizontal lines on
the first floor windows work together than to have the vertical lines between
the first and second floor windows integrate.
Seiberling wanted to know if the curve of the greenhouse on the first floor
could be incorporated ihto the design over the north interior pedestrian
walkway entrance. She suggested flattening the curve which would be more in
keeping with other building elements. Wheeler stated this design was possible
and he would return with a response to this issue. Seiberling noted the north
interior pedestrian entrance design should be strengthened but it was not a
serious problem as was presently designed.
Amert stated the perspective drawing emphasizes the curves of the north
pedestrian entrance and the problems mentioned by Seiberling perhaps would not
be present when the actual structure was constructed. She said Seiberling's
suggestion could possibly strengthen the entrance but that the present design
was acceptable to her. Alexander wanted to know the height of the peak of the
entrance on the north facade and Wheeler responded it was 18 feet.
Alexander stated he would like to see a closer continuity between the two
different first floor glass facades such as same sized glass panes. Wheeler
said it could be considered but that the size of the elements and- the massing
of the individual components on the 'first floor have to be considered; he
thinks the present design addresses this problem in an adequate manner.
Alexander requested information on the width of the exterior walkway. Wheeler
stated the sidewalk began at approximately 6 feet wide on the Block 82 alley,
increased 8 feet and finally to about 10 1/2 feet in the area between the hotel
and the College Block Building (CDB). Alexander asked about how the corridor
would be lit. Wheeler said decorative lighting was planned.
Perret asked about the security, snow removal, wind tunnel effect and how this
exterior walkway related to the historical significance of the CBS. Wheeler
stated the intensity of the lighting will be a major deterrent to vandalism in
the area. Snow removal will be a regular maintenance item for the hotel. With
regard to the last issue as to how the exterior walkways related to the CBB;
Wheeler noted that this design permits a full view of the front facade and the
corner of the COB, and the decorative signage would be in keeping with the
style of the CBB.
Eckholt wanted to know if the east wall of the CBB would be improved. (Note:
The present condition of the exterior wall is exposed plaster and brick.)
Wheeler stated he did not know what if anything was being proposed. Perret
felt the developer should work with the CBB owners in planning for treatment of
the•east wall. Perret noted when the CBB was redeveloped, it was anticipated
that there would be a building directly abutting the CBB and thus it would not
be necessary to finish off that wall. He hoped the owners of the CBB would
finish the east wall in conjunction with the hotel development. Eckholt felt
the exterior walkway has the potential to become very interesting.
Seiberling asked why the decorative brick design was chosen for the walkway
surface. Wheeler stated the brick design was chosen en a pr:aressively
decorative pattern which leads up to the most decorative oattern between the
7141
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 4
CBB and the hotel. He did not have problems with changing the patterns but
wanted to use both aggregate and brick materials. It was noted that quarry
tile would be used on the interior walkway.
Amert stated she was pleased with most of the changes in this design plan but
thought there were still some problems to be worked on. She liked the walkway
connection between the CBB and the hotel but requested a redesign of the
overhead signage. She felt the present signage design detracted from the
elegance of the CBB and felt that a more simple design would be to both
buildings' benefit. Wheeler said her suggestion would be reviewed.
Amert was concerned about the proposed variations in the materials to be used
in the exterior walkways. She suggested the same materials and patterns be
used throughout. Wheeler reiterated his desire to keep the walkway area
between the hotel and the CBB building as something different from the rest of
the walkway. Amert replied she felt strongly there should be the same materi-
als used on the entire length of the exterior walkway. Wheeler stated there
was a possibility of changing some of the exterior walkway elements to achieve
what Amert was requesting.
Amert asked- if there would be access to the triangular terrace area on the
second floor. Wheeler responded affirmatively and stated this area lends to
the concept of "peopling in" City Plaza. Amert asked what sorts of material
would be used on the railing area. Wheeler stated that a bronze -colored
anodized material comparable to that used on the windows would be used.
Amert asked about the scale of the control joints.. Wheeler stated the largest
control joint was 10'x12' which will match the pattern set up by the windows.
Summerwill asked why the exterior walkway was only approximately ten feet wide.
She said she sees the exterior walkway as a garbage trap and something that
will create many problems in the downtown. She wanted to know why the hotel
building could not be cantilevered over the exterior walkway to the east wall
of the CBB from the second floor onward. Wheeler responded that the foundation
of the CBB presents some problems in terms of supporting the mass of the hotel
building. Also, fixed facilities in the hotel. such as -the fire stairwell and
the elevator would require major restructuring which was expensive. Sumnerwill
stated she did not see the interior pedestrian walkway working. She concluded
by stating she would prefer to have the hotel building abut the CBB.
Summerwill asked what kind of frame style would be used on the second story
outside railing. Wheeler stated it would be a vertical bar stock standard
railing type. The area would be - open to hotel guests and health club users.
Summerwill thought the south entrande as designed had signage confusion as to
how people would enter the hotel. Wheeler responded that issue would be worked
on. Summerwill asked as to what type of signage would be required. by Holiday
Inns. Vernon Beck (the developer's representative) said the new Holiday Inn
logo will be used on signage and that the signage plans would be submitted to
the City at a later date. Summerwill stated she did not want to be out in the
quandary of being forced to accept the Holiday Inn signage because of their
franchise requirements. Beck responded the developer can amend the :ioliday Inn
signage requirements if needed.
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 5
Eckhoit noted the curved design on the north facade matches several other
buildings in the downtown. He was concerned about the appearance of the door
on the east end of the north facade which is to be used as the ground floor
entrance for the health club. Wheeler noted there were some building and fire
code requirements as to where this door had to be placed. He anticipated
upgrading of the door treatment over what is shown .in the design plans at this
time.
Seiberling felt the issue of the exterior walkway design could be dealt with on
the basis of meeting the CBB roof line and then using sculpturaldetail to draw
the two buildings together. She suggested calling the exterior walkway the
'Turtle Walk" in honor of the adjacent business in the CBB.
Perret wanted to know why the glass in the second story of the north facade
could not meet with the first floor glass work and that he thought the connect-
ing of glass work would provide more design unity. Wheeler stated the vertical
glass elements on the second floor could be lowered and connected to the first
floor glass elements. However, it would be very difficult to connect the
horizontal glass elements, especially on the first floor, because of the
different frontage depths of the glass.
Perret stated automatic doors should be required for the interior walkway.
Eckholt wanted to know if there would be furniture in the public lobby to
invite public usage. Wheeler said there would not be.
Perret was satisfied with the width of the exterior and interior pedestrian
walkways. He favored use of brick on the interior and exterior sidewalk
surfaces to make them appear more like the City Plaza. He also thought it was
necessary to improve the appearance of the east wall of the CBB.
A discussion then ensued as to what action the Committees should take at this
meeting. Hayek concluded the Committees should give the developer a clear idea
as to what is and is not desired in the hotel design.
Perret stated he was concerned about the appearance of the ends of the build-
ings. Rather than the concrete finish proposed by the developer, he wished to
have a stucco finish with a texture comparable to what was used on the rest of
the building. Wheeler responded the intent of the developer is to finish the
ends of the buildings in a matching texture and color with the rest of the
building. The reasons for having the concrete finish on the ends of the
dormitory towers are for fire ratings.
Perret noted that at earlier Committee meetings, the Committee had indicated a
preference for a more earth -tone material. He noted the Committee had previ-
ously preferred a colonial tan color with a quartzputz finish. Perret pointed
out the south side of the hotel entrance used wood as an exterior material. He
preferred limestone or some other more durable material be used in place of the
wood. Wheeler stated the wood went better with stucco and gives a warmer feel
to that south entrance.
7t'l
■
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 6
Perret wanted to know if the design plans have been presented to the hotel
management company and to Holiday Inn. Wheeler and Beck responded by stating
the management company has approved the plans, this company manages other
Holiday Inn franchises, and does not anticipate any difficulty in meeting
Holiday Inn requirements with this hotel design.
The Committee indicated its desire for brown and white script Holiday Inn
signage. The meeting was then opened up for public comment. Members of the
audience were requested to restrict their remarks to the design concepts
presented at this meeting.
Richard Hansen wanted to know how service trucks would have access to the
service entrance an the southeast corner of the hotel property. Wheeler stated
an access easement would-be provided by the City.
Hansen said an 18 foot wide interior pedestrian walkway and a 10 foot wide
exterior pedestrian walkway is not the same as the 60 foot right-of-way
previously provided by City Plaza. He said appraisers have indicated a "grave"
amount of financial damage is caused by the hotel to Plaza Centre One (PCI).
He was concerned as to whether 24 hour access would be maintained on the
pedestrian walkway and that he did not think that automatic doors will work
when there is a traffic load of 150 people in a half hour. Hansen also thought
a wind tunnel effect would be created with the interior walkway and that
vandalism would become a problem. He -felt the building owners would petition a
court to close the interior pedestrian right-of-way. He also wanted to know
what would happen if the building itself was to close down because of bank-
ruptcy.
Hansen stated he wished to show some designs that he and John Lind had worked
on for the hotel building.
(The design plans were not formally presented to the Committee. The
descriptions contained herein are approximate.)
Alternative A will:
1. Locate the hotel's retail space next to the CBB;
2. Relocate the south side pedestrian entrance in a more westerly direc-
tion;
3. Move the hotel elevator to a central core area;
4. Enlarge the pedestrian right-of-way to a wholly exterior location
directly next to the retail space and exiting onto City Plaza directly
across from PCI.
Hansen and Lind noted that the retail space which would be one or two
stories in height would have foundations. Both thought the relocated
pedestrian right-of-way would solve their access problems.
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JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 7
Alternative B:
1. Would move the pedestrian right-of-way to a wholly exterior area
directly next to the CBB; and
2. Move the elevator to a central point.
The exterior walkway in both designs would be approximately 32-40 feet in
width.
Lind remarked the hotel project should be slowed down so their (Hansen's and
Lind's) design concerns could be taken care of.
McDonald responded the Hotel Steering Committee has attempted to address and
deal with many of the problems created by the hotel project. Many of the
issues raised by Hansen and Lind at tonight's meeting present major cost
revisions and asked if Hansen and Lind had costed the alternatives presented.
Lind replied they had not but felt the Committee should redesign the design
schematics.
Hayek stated the key issue the Committee should concern itself with was that if
a major redesign of the hotel happens with unknown implications on the costs,
and financing structures for the hotel, whether this hotel would then be built
by the present developer. Hayek stated that unless it's clearly demonstrated
that this design is the wrong way to build a hotel, it is difficult to object
to this design. Wegman noted the Committee was not a designer but rather a
reactor to the designs brought,to it.
Hansen stated the way the project was proceeding, the City Council has permit-
ted a plan which will cause PCI financial losses.
f Hayek stated he felt that the City is in an unfortunate position of "...being
damned if it proceeds with the project and damned if it does not proceed with
the project." He felt if the project proceeded, the City risked a lawsuit or
some other legal action from PCI owners and if it did not proceed with the
present hotel developer, the developer would then sue the City. Hansen
responded the concerns they articulated tonight were not only of the PCI
owners.
Beck stated the hotel developer feels the design presented to the Committee
this evening was the best design for the operation of the hotel and there were
i pressing financial concerhs if this hotel project could not proceed. He stated
that major changes could not be made at this time. He wanted to the Committees
to vote on this design at this time.
Jim Clayton wanted to know why two accesses (the interior and exterior) were
being provided. He felt that the interior access would be closed. He said he
had owned a hotel which had an interior access which had been used for over 100
years and was able to obtain a court order which closed this interior passage
way. Clayton was concerned about grafitti, the maintenance, and the drainage
of the exterior walkway. Lastly, he thought automatic air doors were needed
for the interior walkway.
F
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 8
Alexander left at approximately 10:05 p.m.
Amert responded the reasons for the two passageways occurred for a number of
reasons. These included that the Committee felt the appearance of the hotel
dormitory block tower next to the CBS was overwhelming. The solution to this
problem was positioning the dormitory tower back from the east wall of the CBS.
She noted the interior passageway had always been in the design and the
exterior passageway was requested by this Committee to deal with the space
created by the setback of the dormitory tower. Perret noted another reason for
the setback of the dormitory tower was the unknown nature of the CBD foundation
footings.
Linda Robinson asked the Committee if a pedestrian right-of-way was required in
order to sell the street right-of-way. Hayek responded it was not but that the i
Hotel Prospectus required a pedestrian right-of-way. Robinson stated she was
extremely concerned that this design did not provide a safe pedestrian access.
Both Amert and Eckholt noted the same arguments were forwarded when City Plaza
was proposed. The City Plaza was a risk in creating a pedestrian environment
and while it has some minor problems, most people in the community would state
it has been, successful and that the benefits far outweigh the risks of using
City Plaza.
John Gross stated he operated a business in PCI. He presented a copy of a
petition to the Committee regarding the hotel access. He stated this petition
would be sent to the City Council. He indicated his support for the Hansen and
Lind design.
Ed Zastrow introduced himself as a part owner of the CBB and owner of a
business in the CBS. He said he thought the hotel designs that were to be
constructed were from Zuchelli, Hunter and Associates (ZHA) and that he felt
the present hotel design had problems. He then presented the following
questions and comments:
1. Has the City asked the developer how many commercial buildings in this
climate have buildings made of stucco?
2. He felt that this project is being built as cheaply as possible..
3. He felt other urban renewal projects in -the downtown were held to
higher design standards while this project has not been. He stated
brick had been required as the exterior material for Old Capitol
Center, the Iowa City Public Library, and PCI.
McDonald noted from his personal experience that the stucco an his and
his parent's houses have held up well in the last 60 years. Perret
interjected it was not true that brick was required on construction of
downtown urban renewal projects. He stated that Old Capitol Center was
originally designed to be built in precast concrete. Brick was
eventually chosen by the developer because it was cheaper to use.
7�
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 9
4. Other ,exterior corridors had been built in the downtown but were not
used as exterior pedestrian walks. He cited the exterior corridors
between the Lenoch and Cilek building and the Iowa City Public Library
and the corridor between Old Capitol Center and Municipal Parking Ramp
A.
5. He stated the developer would close the interior access by citing
Wheeler's remarks that air doors would have to be closed during slow
times. Wheeler stated he meant doors would have to be provided when
air doors were not in heavy use. These doors -culd never be locked.
Perret stated the air doors at the University Hospital have folding
doors which are used between midnight and early morning hours.
6. The exterior walkway dimensions between the hotel and CBB are narrow
and without a roof covering, additional problems such as snow accumula-
tion are created.
7. The ornamental design on the exterior walkway is not satisfactory to
him.
8. There has been no discussion on his part with anyone regarding the
exterior east wall of. the CBB because of his expectation of a building
built next to that exterior wall.
9. He felt there had been a 20 foot loss of open space on the north facade
between this design and the ZHA desion.
10. He asked what would be located on the southwest corner of the hotel
Parcel and did not want an electrical transformer placed there.
Hayek stated he wished to respond to Zastrow's remark as to use of brick on the
building. He said a number of different materials had been considered by the
Committee. Stucco was the eventual choice of the Committee after some consid-
eration of the financial and structural constraints presented by different
materials. Other members of the Committee noted the developer had been told by
the Committee of their concern that everything in the downtown was being built
of brick and the developer was urged to explore other materials. Also in
addition .to the normal financial considerations in this project, obtaining the
UDAG grant created additional financial concerns. Hayek concluded by stating
the design process on the hotel has been going on for a year and has been a
negotiating and compromising process.
John Kreiger, president of Hawkeye State Bank, stated his concerns about the
visibility and access of the pedestrian right-of-ways in the hotel. He felt
plans for the hotel have been changed frequently and that even at tonight's
meeting, the project architect had indicated some changes were going to be
made. He could not see why a change as suggested by Hansen and Lind could not
be considered.
Hayek stated the issue which should be dealt with at tonight's meeting should
be whether there is,to be a major redesign of the building.
7Y
JOINT MEETING OF HOTEL STEERING COMMITTEE
AND DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 1, 1983 7:30 P.M.
PAGE 10
Berlin said the Committee did not have information as to how long it would take
to change the design and what affects it would have on the project financing.
Perret wanted to know if there were other constraints in considering a redesign
such as already executed commercial leases in the hotel. Berlin said the UDAG
contractual commitment required a hotel with a specific number of rooms to be
built within specific construction prices had to be taken into account.
McDonald wanted to know what the developer was willing to do at this time.
Beck responded the Committee should reject or approve the design presented
tonight. A possible outcome from the Committee's rejection or aoproval could
be to -make changes as requested. In response to questions asked about the
UOAG, Hauer responded the UDAG grant could be seriously and negatively affected
if major changes such as decreasing the number of hotel rooms would be the
outcome of the redesign. She also stated that with the changes anticipated in
the Industrial Revenue Bond regulations, a delay in issuing the IRBs could
limit the use of IRB financing for an unknown period of time and again seri-
ously affect this project because the UDAG was dependent on IRB financing.
Hayek stated the Committee could vote either for or against the basic design
plans submitted or recess the meeting until a later time if additional informa-
tion on the.Hansen and Lind alternatives could be provided.
Richard Peterson, the developer's attorney, stated time pressure is being
created by the proposed IRB legislation and that the UDAG was conditioned- upon
IRB financing. He did not know if this project would survive if IRBs were
delayed until the new IRB regulations were available. He stated if the basic
design plan was accepted at tonight's meeting, the developer would be willing
to continue to look at improving access or changing the location of the
pedestrian right-of-way if it was financially and structurally possible.
Hayek moved approval of the proposed design plan subject to the developer
making unspecified improvements to the pedestrian accesses as much as is
possible. McDonald seconded. Hayek noted the motion was not as specific as
could be desired but would permit the time to be allotted to making the design
changes. McDonald strongly emphasized to the developer that it was necessary
to examine and respond to the issues brought up at the meeting this evening. He
noted the developer should be very much aware that the City Council could cause
far more problems in the design plans than this Committee could and that they
should be forewarned accordingly.
Berlin requested that Hayek's motion be amended with an insertion of the clause
stating that the developer should specifically explore the concepts presented
by Hansen and Lind.. Wegman seconded Berlin's amendment. This amendment was
approved unanimously. The motion ss amended carried 5-1 (Wegman). We4man
explained his vote by stating that the concept presented by Hansen and Lind was
very attractive to him and he was trying to convey to the developer that the
present access design was not acceptable to him.
The developer requested a copy of the plans
responded by stating that the developer can
plans from them anytime on Friday (December Z.
This meeting was adjourned at 11:25 p.m.
Submitted by Andrea Hauer.
from Hansen and Linc. Hansen
discuss obtaining a ccoy of the
1983).
�y
MINUTES
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 19, 1983 4:00 P.M.
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sumnerwill, Wockenfuss, Haupert, Sinek, Alexander, Eckholt
MEMBERS ABSENT: Amert, Wegman, Seiberling, Lafore
GUESTS PRESENT: Margaret Nowysz, Chuck Skaugstad, Jim Clark, Steve
Rohrbach
STAFF PRESENT: Hauer, Moen, Burkett
COUNCILMEMBER-ELECT PRESENT: Baker
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
1. 601 S. Gilbert Street: Alexander moved and Haupert seconded that the
propose um Ing esign for 601 S. Gilbert Street was reviewed posi-
tively regarding the north, east and west elevations. However, the
C,:%nittee was dissatisfied with the appearance of the south elevation
which was highly visible to traffic as a blank wall on Gilbert Street.
The Committee encouraged Clark, his architect, and the Historic Preserva-
tion Commission to work together on the desian. The Committee recom-
mended the amended building design be reviewed by the Committee. The
Committee noted they did not wish to hold up the IRB application or the
issuance of bonds.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 28,.1983:
Summerwill moved and Sinek seconded to approve the minutes. Motion approved
unanimously (Seiberling, Amert, Lafore, Wegman absent).
INFORMATIONAL PRESENTATION OF DESIGN PLANS FOR IOWA THEATER RENOVATION:
Steve Rohrbach presented plans of the proposed renovation of the Iowa Theater
which fronts the Dubuque Street portion of City Plaza. He stated the present
marquee sign would be removed and be replaced with a smaller marquee. He
said the owners would be maintaining the building piers and placing new
tinted glass between the piers. Rohrbach stated he did some research to find
if there were any earlier photos of the theater so the theater could be
redesigned accordingly; no pictures were found. Haupert asked Rohrbach about
the appearance of the marquee and Rohrbach stated the marquee would be
constructed of dark anodized aluminum.
The Committee liked the proposed renovation design and commended the build-
ing.
PRESENTATION OF DESIGN PLANS FOR 601 SOUTH GILBERT STREET (IRB REQUEST):
Hauer stated the recommendation by the Design Review Committee will be
forwarded to City Council at public hearing on this IRS request.
75-
V
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 19, 1983
PAGE 2
Moen reviewed the project staff report and showed samples of the brick and
shingles Clark proposed to use. She stated Clark is using precast concrete
on the window and door lintels and sills. The trim is buff colored. Clark
said that he would paint the air conditioners to blend in with the building
so they didn't stand out.
Summerwill commented this seemed to be the same design as the apartments on
Burlington and Gilbert streets. Clark said the floor plan is similar but the
d,«_Clark had Worked with uavarly Ormond of Pierce King
cxbcr qui a u..ie_._�. worked
Associates.
Moen stated the Historic Preservation Commission was concerned with the lack
of windows on the south side.
Clark said he can only place one window on that elevation. He stated there
is a stairwell on the south side and by placing a window on the stairwell,
maintenance would be a problem with the window. He was also trying to stay
away from too much des ign"busyness." Clark did not want to duplicate The
Mansion (the property east of the subject site, 601 S. Gilbert Street); he
wants to compliment it.
Moen stated the east elevation shows a bricked window. Alexander suggested
installing blind windows as were used in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Sunmerwill asked Clark when this building was going to be constructed. Clark
stated he had the building permit and was ready to start immediately.
Haupert asked the Historic Preservation Commission for their comments. Nowysz
referred to the letter sent from the Historic Preservation Commission to Mr.
Clark last week. Mr. Clark said he had not received the letter from Nowysz
as he was out of town last week. Nowysz then reviewed the letter which was
about the Historic Preservation Commission awards program.
Baker said he was concerned with the appearance of the south wall.
Haupert noted that blind windows might be a good idea on that side.
Clark stated that the blueprints accurately reflect the landscaping to some
degree but more trees would be added.
Eckholt arrived at 4:40 p.m.
Sunmerwill asked Hauer if any other proposals had been made for this land.
Hauer stated the City did not own the property and Mr. Clark, as the property
owner, was presenting this design as required by the City's Industrial
Revenue Bond Policy.
Skaugstad said he didn't have any problem with blind windows and that Clark
might add two more windows or three blind windows on the north and south
sides.
7r
1
DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE
DECEMBER 19, 1983
PAGE 3
Summerwill indicated her dissatisfaction with the plans which Clark had
presented and thought details need to be worked out more with the architect.
She felt it was not the job of the Design Review Committee to design the
plans for Mr. Clark.
Clark stated he used professionals on the design work. He stressed he was
open to design changes.
• Summerwill said these apartments are superficially different from those on
Burlington Street. She saw some sensitivity with the brick color of these
apartments to the Mansion.
Clark again stressed that he is not trying to duplicate the Mansion, just
compliment it.
Skaugstad asked about the appearance of the light fixtures. Moen showed the
Committee pictures of the light fixtures. Clark stated that there would be
no additional lights in the front.
Haupert suggested Skaugstad work with Clark on the design plans. Haupert
stated it was hard for him to make a recommendation upon seeing the plans for
the first time and with all of the proposed changes, and would like to see
the plans again.
Alexander moved and Haupert seconded that the design plans for 601 -South
Gilbert Street were reviewed positively regarding the elements of the north,
east and west elevations. However, they were dissatisfied with the appear-
ance of the south elevation which is highly visible to traffic on Gilbert
Street as a blank wall. The Design Review Committee encourages Clark, design
professionals and the Historic Preservation Commission to work further on the
design. The Committee recommends the design be brought back to this Commit-
tee with the changes. The Committee wanted it noted that it didn't want to
hold up the IRB application or issuance of bonds. The motion carried 4-2
(Ayes: Haupert, Alexander, Sinek, Wockenfuss; Nayes: Summerwill and Eckholt
opposing; Absent: Seiberling, Amert, Lafore, Wegman).
DISCUSSION OF DOWNTOWN MAP SIGNAGE
Hauer stated she was trying to assemble information for downtown city map
signage. She wanted some ideas or places to call •for design ideas. Eckholt
suggested she contact the Des Moines Skywalk System.
OTHER BUSINESS
Summerwill asked about the status of the newspaper dispenser issue. Hauer
said the issue is under review by the City Attorney. The Committee decided
to write a letter to the City Council regarding their strong desire to.have
dispenser units installed in the downtown.
Hauer stated that one of the City Council priorities is a discussion of the
Committee's functions. She suggested that the members meet prior to their
discussion with the Council.
Meeting adjourned by general consensus at 5:45 p.m.
7-15�
MINUTES
IOWA CITY RIVERFRONT COMMISSION
DECEMBER 7, 1983 7:30 P.M.
CIVIC CENTER LAW LIBRARY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Lewis, Rausch, Gerleman, McGuire, Oehmke, Willis
MEMBERS ABSENT: Nelson, Boutelle, Scott, Fountain
STAFF PRESENT: Moen
GUESTS: None
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION:
Chairperson Lewis called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF NOVEMBER 2, 1983:
Willis moved and Oehmke seconded to approve the minutes of November 2, 1983,
and to reflect in the minutes of December 7, the entirety of the letter
submitted by Jean Fountain regarding her second to the motion directing staff
to make an inquiry to the Department of Water, Air and Waste Management as to
whether any regulations are being violated along the river bank in the
vicinity of Johnson County Ready Mix, Ruan Transport Corporation and L.L.
Palling Company. The motion carried unanimously.
RIVER BANK CLEAN-UP - PROGRESS REPORT:
Moen distributed pictures of the Mayor's Youth Employment Program crew
working on the river bank clean-up project. The crew worked from November 14
through November 23 on this project. On the east bank of the river, the crew
completed cleaning the reach from the Burlington Street Dam to the Benton
Street Bridge. The west bank has been cleaned from the Burlington Street Dam
to the railroad trestle behind the Dairy Queen. Three-quarters of a ton of
debris has been collected. Due to the inclement weather, the project has
ceased. However, should some nice days occur, the crew will continue where
it stopped. This project will be resumed by the Mayor's Youth crew in the
spring.
Moen continued that riverfront property owners from the Burlington Street Dam
to the southern.corporate limits were contacted regarding this matter.
DEPARTMENT OFWATER AIR AND WASTE MANAGEMENT - REGULATIONS AND POLICY
Moen stated she has been speaking with persons in the Washington, Iowa office
of the Department of Water, Air b Waste Management. Information obtained
reveals that open dumping, at a site other than a sanitary disposal project,
except for. rubble, is prohibited. Rubble is defined as stone, brick, or
similar inorganic material. The material. deposited in the vicinity of
Johnson County Ready Mix would probably fall within that definition. However,
if the dumped material falls on the river side of the floodway encroachment
line, the dumping observed may be in violation of floodplain ordinances.
/4
Riverfront Commission
December 7, 1983
Page 2
McGuire expressed her concern that this was more than just an aesthetic
problem but an erosion problem as well, especially if the cement creeps into
the river bank. She stated her main intent was not to hassle anyone in
Coralville but to involve them in "friendly" discussion regarding this
matter. .
Gerleman stated that if he is to bring this concern before the Coralville
Council, the Riverfront Commission needs to outline in specific terms the
problems the Commission has identified.
Willis suggested this concern could be passed along to the City of Coralville
as a potential problem for their information. He stressed posing the concern
as merely an observation. Willis added that he could not support a formal
resolution in the Commission's name.
McGuire moved and Oehmke seconded to suggest to Gerleman to call. attention to
the City Council of Coralville the Commission's observation of the potential
problem at Johnson County Ready Mix and Ruan Transport Corporation.
The motion passed 3-0-3 with Willis, Rausch and Gerleman abstaining. Willis'
reason for abstaining was that he had not seen the site being discussed.
Gerleman stated he felt the Commission needed to identify some constructive
action - i.e., solutions to the problem.
STREAMBANK PROTECTION - POSSIBLE SUBJECT FOR PUBLIC MEETING:
Moen reported that information had been mailed to the Commission members
regarding varieties of plant materials that could be used as suitable forms
of river bank stabilization. Some of these varieties are available from the
Iowa Conservation Commission. She continued that plantings are another
alternative for property owners who live along the river bank. Moen sug-
gested the Commission may consider having a public meeting regarding this
matter. She further suggested that someone from the Army Corps of Engineers
or the State Conservation Commission come to speak at a special meeting.
Willis remarked that a face-to-face presentation can't be beat. In his
opinion, he continued, the group that attended the last meeting presented a
positive interest in what they could do.
Moen stated she'd investigate agencies having personnel avaiiable.to address
this subject. The Army Corps of Engineers, the City Forester, the Soil.
Conservation Service and the Iowa Conservation Commission would be possible
sources.
The dates of either February 2 or February 9 was decided on for the public
meeting. It was also decided to hold the public meeting in the Iowa City
Public Library.
74
Riverfront Commission
December 7, 1983
Page 3
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
Moen stated that Warren Y.narr's term as a Johnson County representative to
the Riverfront Connission has expired and the County will be advertising this
vacancy.
Willis moved and Oehmke seconded to nominate Diana Lewis Chairperson. The
motion carried unanimously. Lewis accepted the nomination as Chairperson
with the stipulation that the Commission members accept reasonable delegation
of duties.
McGuire moved and Gerleman seconded to nominate Bob Oehmke as Vice Chair. The
motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
Moen mentioned the Joint University -City Rowing Association proposal submit-
ted by Philip Bourjaily. However, she stated, the University hasn't been
contacted by Bourjaily regarding this Joint Association. The Commission's
concern is the availability of money. The members of the Riverfront
Commission decided they would endorse this type of association.
Moen stated that the next meeting will be held the second Wednesday in.
January, January 11, 1984.
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Minutes taken by:
Los Burkett, Minute Ta er
76
a'�3
a /
7�6
I
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 12, 1983
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY - MEETING ROOM 8
MEMBERS PRESENT: Margaret Nowysz, Howard Jones, Larry Baker, Chuck
. Skaugstad, Jim Hayes, Greg Duffey, Steven Vanderwoude
STAFF PRESENT: Pat Keller, Monica Moen
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Margaret Nowysz at 7:30 p.m.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
August 24, 1983, and Septmeber 14, 1983.
Howard Jones stated that Dorothy Moeller's name had been incorrectly
reported in the August 24, 1983, minutes and advised staff to make the
appropriate changes. Larry Baker stated that the actual contractor's name
should be listed in the minutes instead of making reference to "a
contractor." Howard Jones moved that the minutes of the August 24, 1983,
and September 14, 1983, meetings be approved as amended. Jive Hayes
seconded this motion and it passed unanimously without discussion.
SUMMIT STREET/WOODLAWN UPDATE:
Pat Keller announced that Thursday, October 20, 1983, at 7:30 p.m. the
Planning and Zoning Commission would be reviewing the proposed historic
districts and all of the Commission members were urged to attend. Staff
also mentioned that as"diFecied by the Commission a slideshow of the
districts would be presented. Howard Jones mentioned that in the
enclosure entitled "Comments From Public Hearing," Dorothy Moeller's name
had been incorrectly listed. He advised staff to make the required
changes prior to submitting the reports to the Planning and Zoning
Commission.
AWARDS PROGRAM:
Margaret Nowysz opened the discussion by asking Chuck Skaugstad and Jim
Hayes if they would be willing to work on the selection of a jury to judge
the awards program. Jim and Chuck expressed interest in pursuing this
task. The Commission then discussed the timetable for completion of the
awards program as well as individuals who might be willing to serve as
jurors.
Howard asked if the Commission was open to suggestions and if so what
areas of expertise would be considered for selection as a juror. Margaret
77
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 12, 1983
PAGE 2
responded by stating the jurors could be selected from other cities and
other City commissions. Chuck asked what type of time commitment would be
required by the jurors. Monica responded by stating that two meetings of
the group should be held. At the first meeting the jurors would review
the projects and at the second meeting the winners would be announced by
the jury. Greg Duffey asked if there would be a time limit on when
projects were completed to be included in the awards program. Margaret
explained that on the first round, projects could go back in time
indefinitely. She also stated that initially a three year time span was
suggested, but this seemed too restrictive. Larry suggested that
announcements be made to the City Council and Hawkeye CableVision. Chuck
asked what types of advertising would be done. Monica explained. that
display ads would be placed in the paper and notices posted in the buses
and on bulletin boards. The Commission then discussed the pros and cons
of obtaining jurors from outside of the city. Concern was also expressed
by the Commission that jurors not be too professional or rigid in their
review.
COBG PROPOSALS:
The Historic Preservation Commission submitted two proposals to CCN for
j consideration of funding. The first proposal requested funding of a
quarter -time staff position for the Commission. Larry Baker opened the
discussion by stating that the proposal for one-quarter staff assistance
for the Historic Preservation Commission reflected salary levels that he
felt were high. Pat Keller explained that the salary is based upon an
associate planner position and that the monetary amounts reflected in this
request were simply based upon existing salary levels.
Chuck asked if the money set aside in the budget request for the awards
program was adequate. Greg suggested the use of paper awards such as
certificates of appropriateness. Chuck wondered if this would provide
enough motivation for participation in the program. He felt that more
substantial incentives were required. Jim Hayes asked if the Commission
could accept donations to fund the purchase of plaques. Margaret responded
by stating that she would like to see a change in the ordinance in regard
to this issue so that the Commission could accept gifts for this purpose.
This specific issue, however, would be discussed later in the meeting.
Steve Vanderwoude presented a motion that the Historic Preservation
Commission submit a request for funding of a quarter -time staff position
and that the amount of materials be increased to $500. Chuck Skaugstad
seconded the motion and it passed unanimously without discussion.
The second project discussed was the Historic Rehabilitation Program.
Margaret opened the discussion by briefly outlining the objectives of the
project. Chuck asked what type of work this project would entail.
Margaret explained that the rehabilitation work could cover almost
anything as long as the items rehabilitated were of historic value. The
77
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 12, 1983
PAGE 3
items could either be on the interior or exterior of the house. Steve
suggested that more controls were needed in the program. Howard added
that substantial improvements should also be required. Greg stated that
other people could be involved in rehabilitation and that the work should
be videotaped. Chuck asked how many homes could potentially be
rehabilitated with the requested amount of money. Margaret responded by
stating that this would largely depend on the type of house(s) selected
and amount of work that needed to be done. Greg suggested that the
wording in the proiect description should state that "Only homes in
proposed historic districts will be considered for rehabilitation."
Margaret also suggested the project description should also state that
"Homes included in the project should qualify under the housing
rehabilitation program guidelines." Jim Hayes presented a motion that the
Historic Rehabilitation Program be submitted to CCN for consideration for
funding under the CDBG program. Chuck Skaugstad seconded the motion and
the motion passed unanimously without discussion.
ORDINANCE CHANGES:
Howard Jones asked about the status of the Historic Preservation Ordinance
in regard to the change in wording requested by the Planning & Zoning
Commission. Pat Keller responded by stating that the Planning & Zoning
Commission had trouble understanding the wording of a sentence in the
drdinance and that the Planning Department had reworded the sentence. The
Commission -had received a memo outlining the specific change.
Margaret stated that the Commission was also interested in amending
sections of the ordinance. She then read from sections of the.Ann Arbor
Historic Preservation Ordinance and the State of Idaho enabling
legislation regarding historic preservation. After a brief discussion
the Commission agreed that 4t -would be desirable if the Commission could
j receive funding and gifts from outside sources for historic preservation
projects.
Howard Jones presented'a motion that staff investigate the feasibility and
legality of amending the ordinance so that the Commission could receive
gifts and administer grants, and create wording for the proposed
amendment. This motion was seconded by Steve VanderWoude. The motion
passed unanimously without discussion.
NORTH SIDE BROCHURE:
Monica Moen distributed samples and explained the procedures outlined in
the North Side Commercial and Residential brochure. Howard Jones
commented on the good quality of the editing job that had been undertaken
on his work. Greg thought that the presentation of the brochure looked
very good. Steve VanderWoude rai$ed questions.about the boundaries of the
proposed North Side Residential District. He suggested that certain areas
be expanded to include Dodge Street and Bella Vista View to the north.
77
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
OCTOBER 12, 1983
PAGE 4
After considerable discussion regarding the boundaries of the North Side
Residential District, Steven Vanderwoude presented a motion that the
Proposed North Side Residential Historic District be expanded to include
1) all properties joining Bella Vista Drive, 2) the two blocks extending
north from Ronalds Street between Linn and Dubuque Streets excluding those
properties directly fronting Dubuque Street, extending north from the
alley directly north of Ronalds Street, 3) all the property fronting Brown
Street between Van Buren and Dodge Streets, 4) the block and h located
north of the first alley north of Church Street between Johnson and Bridge
Streets, 5) the abandoned sandstone building located in the 600 block of
Johnson Street.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS:
Margaret announced that the University of Iowa Adventures in Learning
Program was sponsoring a class in Historic Preservation.
ADJOURNMENT:
Jim Hayes presented a motion that the Iowa City Historic Preservation
Commission adjourn. Chuck Skaugstad seconded the motion and it passed
l unanimously without discussion. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 P.M.
77
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
NOVEMBER 9, 1983 7:30 P.M.
OLD BRICK - 26 EAST MARKET STREET
MEMBERS PRESENT: Nowysz; Jones, Baker, Hayes, Duffey, VanderWoude
MEMBERS ABSENT: Skaugstad
STAFF PRESENT: Moen, Burkett (until 8:45)
GUESTS PRESENT: .Douglas Hotchkiss, Dorothy Haefner, John Haefner, Bob
Saunders, -Ken Hubei, Corinne Suter, Tom Palmer, and Bukky
AkinboIa
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Nowysz at 7:30 p.m. The
Commissioners introduced themselves to the persons attending the public
hearing.
No one was in attendance to speak in favor of or opposition to this item.
John Haefner; 6 Bella Vista; asked the Commission what effect the recognition
of this area as an historic district would have on property values: Nowysz
told Haefner that; at the present time, the Commission could not predict this
due to lack of.experience. The Commission has only been in existence since
April and to date, there have been no local historic districts established in
Iowa City. She suggested :that property owners take a look at Historic
Districts in other areas. Nowysz continued that designating an area as an
Historic District adds to the 'Stabilization of structures and aids in the
upkeep of.the property; these two factors together would increase the value
of the property. Nowysz informed the group that the procedure the Commission
uses to establish a district is to consider the comments received at public
hearings; to discuss the comments among the Commissioners and to pass the
report, a recommendation and a proposed ordinance to the Planning and Zoning
Commission. The Planning b Zoning Commission reviews this material and:
recommends approval, disapproval or modification of the proposed historic
district to the City Council. The City Council submits a description of the
proposed area of historical significance or the petition describing the area
to the Division of Historic Preservation of the Iowa State Historical
Department for review and recommendations concerning the proposed area. Any
recommendations made by the Division of Historic Preservation are made
available by the City to the public for review. Upon receiving the recommen-
dation of the Division of Historic Preservation, the City Council provides
notice of a public hearing and conducts the public hearing on the ordinance
/7
Historic
November
Page 2
Preservation Commission
9, 1983
establishing the proposed historic preservation district: The Council may
adopt or reject the ordinance or may refer the historic district designation
to the Commission for modification.-
Haefner
odification:
Haefner raised the question concerning the encroachment of apartments and
duplexes in these proposed districts. Nowysz stated that the apartment
aspect is regulated.by the Planning and Zoning Commission. She further added
that the Historic Preservation Commission cannot prevent development of the
zone. If• a house is being converted, Nowysz told Haefner that a building
permit is required, and this would trigger review of the plans by the
Historic Preservation Commission. The integrity of. the building should be
pre52ry^ed. It was noted that the Historic Preservation Commission must
follow the zoning ordinances as designated and in this area it is quite
restrictive: The Historic Preservation Commission only deals with exterior
portions of the structure Nowysz added:
Corinne Suter; 609 Brown Street, wanted it noted in the minutes that she
requested that Old Brick be included in the proposed historic distrct. Jones
commented that Old Brick is not contiguous to the proposed district for which
the public hearing is being held. Nowysz stated that it would be possible to
consider the house adjacent to Old Brick as well as Old Brick, as two
contiguous pieces of property can be included in a district.
Bob Saunders; owner of the property at 320 Fairchild; asked the Commission
how the map was decided: In 1980, Moen stated; a survey was completed by the
Planning and Program Development staff members who were knowledgeable in
historic preservation. About 50-75 parcels were added to the original
boundaries by the Historic Preservation Commission.
Haefner asked what cities of comparable size have historic districts and
what affect an historic district had on the taxation of property in such a
district: Nowysz stated that Dubuque; Iowa, is comparable in size and has
designated historic districts. In answer to the taxation question; Nowysz
remarked that this was too: new in Iowa City to be able to answer this
question at this stage.
Moen distributed the reports describing the proposed districts: She stressed
these were draft documents and. that additional parcels added by the Commis-
sion were not included:
Saunders asked if only permit situations needed Commission approval: Nowysz
said yes; and that any changes in structural design that are suggested would
be in keeping with the style of the housing and neighborhood:
Haefner inquired about tearing' down structures with no historic value.
Nowysz stated this, too; would be brought to the attention of the Historic
Preservation Commission. If the Commission objected for one reason or
another, an appeal could be -made to the City Council. She added that the
Commission would need to review the exterior plans. if a new structure was
going to be built: She stressed that the Commission would like to see other
structures built that are compatible with the existing structures.
Baker stressed that the Historic Preservation Commission does not expect
property owners to build historical structures.
77
Historic Preservation Commission
November 9, 1983
Page 3
Baker asked Moen to review the process of designating an historic district:
Moen stated the process as follows:
a. An historic district is proposed by an individual or a group: A draft
document is then prepared which is made available for review;
b. A public hearing is held and persons in the proposed district are
notified in advance of the meeting so that comments could be reviewed;
c. These comments are submitted to Planning and Zoning alond with the report
describing the proposed historic district and the recommendation by the
Historic Preservation CoiiiT iSa1u,-,
d. Planning and Zoning has 60 days in which to consider and review the
recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission;
e. Planning and Zoning passes its recommendations to City Council;
f. City Council notifies the state that an historic district is being
proposed;
g. After receipt of the recommendations of the state office; the City
Council conducts a public hearing;
h. After
rt
the
public
Ca hearing;
nthe
City
either adopts; rejects or returns the
peoposal
o the
Jones remarked once an area is declared an historic district, a person from
that district is selected to serve on the Commission to represent that
district:
Suter asked if each person- in the district is sent a notification card
regarding the meeting: Nowysz answered that the property owners are person-
ally sent .cards in addition:to a notice of the public meeting which appears
in the aer. She said if someone is missed by mail or unable to attend the
public hearing, he can go to He Planning and Zoning meeting, the Council
pp
public hearing or to a Commission member or staff person to voice his/her
opinion.
Haefner stated that this was a trade-off for property owners who are giving
up said she wouldn't call" it a
typeof against o
something undesirable -that a neighbor might s a
ht dit i o
peofprotection .
Tom Palmer;
22and
9 South
oh yet: asked
ifsthis
noroposed historic district was
befo
Nowysz asked for additional comments from the Commissioners: Baker asked if
the Commission was adding the half -block between Dubuque and Jefferson
Streets that includes the two hotels that were going to be included in these
districts.
77
■
Historic Preservation Commission
November 9, 1983
Page 4
Baker suggested another public hearing next month be held because of low
public attendance due to the weather: He also added that it would be a good
idea for the City to publish the map of the proposed district in the paper:
Jones commented he would rather not hold another public hearing but defer any
decision until the next meeting. He had no objections to circulating a flier
urging any interested person to attend the next meeting.
Jones moved and Hayes seconded to give the public the opportunity for
additional input at the next meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Saunders
asked how many structures were owner -occupied. Moen estimated that around
60% were owner -occupied but added that this figure was an estimate only and
had not been calculated.
Nowysz called attention to the fact that the Historic Preservation Commission
has initiated an awards program to owners who have improved structures in
neighborhoods. She said that there were applications available if anyone
would like to take one home: Slides showing the improvement would be
presented at the December 14, 1983 meeting. At that time, the slides would
be reviewed by out-of-town judges. The Commission was to award those who
have taken the time and made the effort to rehabilitate historic strucures.
Palmer asked what date the Commission had in mind for submission of these
proposed districts to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Nowysz expected
they would be submitted after the January meeting. Nowysz called the public
hearing closed at 8:11 p.m.
Jones added that a long-range goal of the Commission is to educate and inform
the public. He stressed one of the purposes of this Commission is to be an
advisory body to property owners:
APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 12, 1983, MINUTES
Nowysz deferred approval of the minutes until the next meeting so the
Commissioners could have a chance to -review the minutes.
SUMMIT STREET-WOODLAWN UPDATE
Nowysz stated that, prior to the Planning and Zoning Commission review of
these proposed districts, there was some indication that an individual
residing within one of the districts would come to object at the Planning and
Zoning meeting: However, no one did. She said it was unanimously passed with
no great discussion. The ptoposed recommended districts were going to be
forwarded to City Council: The Council will then submit these recommenda-
tions to the State Historic Commission for its comments after which it will
return to the City Council for further action.
AWARDS PROGRAM
Moen said that the City Council has given its approval to solicit private
funds to purchase awards plaques. She then distributed a letter drafted by
Pat Keller. Moen asked the Commission to review the letter and to make any
revisions.
7%
Historic Preservation Commission
November 9, 1983
Page 5
Baker asked what "donations of any denomination" meant. Moen said she would
check with Keller about this statement:
Nowysz said the Commission deals only with exteriors so in the sentence
"projects may include interior or exterior...," the word interior should be
�I
excluded.
Baker asked if awards were to be given only to structures that have been
rehabilitated and located in historic districts. Moen said no, that these
awards could be given anywhere in Iowa City as local historic districts have
not yet been established. However, she added, after the Historic Preserva-
tion Commission has been in existence for a period of time restrictions may
be placed on future awards programs.
Nowysz commented that any money received in excess of the costs of the
plaques, should be placed in an educational fund and that this information
should be put in the letter. Hayes moved and Duffey seconded that any money
received in excess would be put in an educational fund. Motion carried
unanimously.
Moen asked if the jurors had been selected for the review committee: Nowysz
said Claudia Kackler of the Iowa State Chapter, American Institute of
Architects has agreed to be one of the jurors and would recommend two other
jurors:.
Duffey inquired as to a decision on the design for the plaque: Moen stated
none has been agreed upon: Nowysz told Duffey to put together a proposal and
costs and send these to. Keller and Moen. She added the first award would be
given December 14, 1983.
Nowysz asked for volunteers to review the plaque design. Duffey volunteered
and Skaugstad was volunteered to be the subcommittee to review the plaque.
design:
CDBG PROPOSALS
Moen indicated to the Commi-ssion that the Commission's requests for 37,000
for an Historic Rehabilitation Program and $8,279 for Historic Preservation
Planning were not recommended for funding by the Committee on Community Needs
(CCN). Nowysz had spoken to CCN and indicated to the Committee that, at
i times,.agencies receiving funds were not sensitively or wisely using the
funds on historically significant structures.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
Baker moved and VanderNoude seconded to tentatively add the two former hotels
on the corner of Jefferson and Dubuque Streets to the proposed North Side
Commercial Historic District. Motion carried unanimously.
Jones moved and Hayes seconded to include St. Mary's Convent in the proposed
district as well. The motion carried unanimously.
I ••
Historic Preservation Commission
November 9, 1983
Page 6
Baker informed the Commission of the Housing Commission's report regarding
the donation of houses. Baker recommended that this information be obtained
and discussed at the December meeting. He remarked that this concept may be
useful for historic preservation purposes.
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.
{ Minutes taken by: Lois Burkett, Minute Taker
_r
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