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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1984-03-12 Bd Comm. minutesMINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1982 MEMBERS PRESENT: Ringgenberg, Farran, Logan, Krause, Vander Zee, Haendel MEMBERS ABSENT: Karstens STAFF PRESENT: Munson, Kucharzak, Seydel, Flinn, Keller, Barnes RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 1. That City Council be advised that we are very concerned about the loss of an inspector with the workload that we have, and that we recommend City Council immediately fund that inspector out of general funds. RECOMMENDATIONS TO STAFF: 1. That meeting be arranged in February with outside speaker, Housing ! Commission, and Housing Commission Task Force on Congregate Housing. 2. That names of school-age children be released to Iowa City and Clear Creek School Districts. 3. That Human Rights Commission table further discussion on Civil Rights Ordinance, and that they meet with Housing Commission for further discussion. 4. That River City Housing Collective provide Articles of Incorporation and By -Laws to City legal staff for review prior to Commission review of proposal. 5. That by-laws of Housing Board of Appeals be reviewed and/or amended to provide for administrative action on certain appeals. MINUTES: 1.. Meeting was called to order by Chairperson Haendel at 3:30 p.m. at Meeting Room A of the Iowa City Public Library. 2. Minutes - moved Ringgenberg, second Logan, that minutes be approved as mailed. Approved 6/0. 3. Congregate Housing - R. Neumann of R. Neumann & Associates presented the preliminary analysis of the physical aspects of Central Junior High and its adaptive uses for congregate housing. Commissioners reviewed proposed plans and were advised the following changes would have to be made to existing facility: MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1982 PAGE 2 a. new plumbing and heating system; b. roof needs repair; C. elevator and ramp added; d. partial sprinkler system would need to be revised and added to; e. fire escapes replaced by stairwells; f. new electrical system. Neumann advised that the building contains 39,000 sq. ft. or 500,000 cu. ft. of space, but only 14,600 sq. ft. is rentable living space. He estimated the cost of renovating at $1,500,000 with 10% to 15% variable either way. He further estimated that similar space, exclusive of land, would cost $990,000 to build; thus, finding renovation not cost-effective. Following discussion of scope of services, number of units, type and size, Vander Zee moved, Ringgenberg seconded, that Housing Commission give guidelines on type of facility (begin to make policy decisions such as how many units are needed? What would an apartment look like? Type of facility?). Approved 6/0. Haendel indicated she feels Commission needs to get involved with the Task Force. Consensus that entire Congregate Housing Task Force be invited to February meeting. Discussed possibility of getting Powell Lawton to come to February meeting tq provide guidance in planning for design needs, population, etc. a desepi ng nd assist in ke options open. Kucharzak will attempt to secure Mr. Lawton's assistance and arrange an all day meeting in February. Munson asked Commissioners to review Congregate Housing Report and make suggestions. 4. Housing Rehabilitation - Barnes distributed information on energy efficient furnaces and advised they would discuss at next meeting. 5. Housing Assistance Plan - Keller explained purpose of HAP and reviewed figures utilized. 6. Coordinator's Report - Seydel reported assistance paid on 378 units December 1 for a total of $66,051.50. Fourteen new applications were submitted for approval. School District Report - Seydel advised that we are asked annually to submit a list of names of all school-age children in Section 8 or Public Housing to the Iowa City and Clear Creek School Districts; and 40 MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1982 PAGE 3 that Housing Commission approval is required before releasing such names. Moved Krause, seconded Logan, that names be released to school districts. Approved 6/0. Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation - Money for program has been spent, but efforts have failed to produce any units. Considering writing HUD requesting cancellation of moderate rehabilitation program. Public Housing 22-3 - Units filled. No problems. Public Housing 22-4 - One foundation poured, two footings in place. Construction on schedule. Considering applying for additional Public Housing units. Will be scheduled for discussion January meeting. 6. Civil Rights Ordinance - Proposed revisions distributed to Commission and they Were advised of public hearing on December 13. Commission discussed ramifications of proposed changes on housing. Concerns were expressed over imposing of values on landlords, failure to distinguish between large and small complexes and owner - occupied units, and preventing landlord from right to decide who they want to rent to. Moved Krause, second Logan, that we recommend that Human Rights Commission table further discussion on ordinance, and that they meet with Housing Commission for further discussion. Approved 6/0. Housing Commission invites Civil Rights Commission to January meeting. 7. River City Housing Collective - Dan Daley and Mark Brandt appeared on behalf of the Co-op. They advised that RCHC has assets of $150,000 and equity of $30,000. Average rent is $110. Daley advised they had asked CCN for assistance to purchase next house. CCN recommended that they be granted $25,000 for down payment plus a 0% interest loan for $40,000. Questions were raised as to organizational structure, participation, and eligibility. Commissioners were advised that 1) membership is open and voluntary; 2) 80% of members are low-income; 3) homes are comprised of ten or more non -related persons. Questions were raised as to eligibility based on the HUD guidelines for "family" as well as single and married persons living in the same house. Moved Krause, second Logan, that if River City Housing Collective is willing to make their Articles of Incorporation and By-laws available to City Attorney, that Housing Commission will review the proposal. Approved 6/0. r// MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1982 PAGE 4 Krause recommended that the City should review organizational structures of all organizations making requests of the Housing Commission. 8. Recording of variances - tabled. 9. CCN - no report. 10. General Discussion - Problem of number of appeals and time constraints of Housing Commission was discussed. Consensus that By- laws should be reviewed and, if necessary, amended to provide for an administrative process to handle uncontroversial appeals. Fred, Goldie, and Al agreed to attend appeal hearing on December 14. 11. Housing Inspection - Moved Vander Zee, second Ringgenberg, that City Council be advised that we are very concerned about the loss of an inspector with the workload that we have, and that we recommend City Council immediately fund that inspector out of general funds. Approved 6/0. 12. Adjournment - Moved Logan, second Farran, that meeting adjourn. Ap r ved 6/0. Adjourn d 6:45 P.m. Goldene B. Haendel Chairperson T�� MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5, 1983 3:30 P.M. IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY MEMBERS PRESENT: Haendel, Krause, Logan, Vander Zee, Farran MEMBERS ABSENT: Karstens, Ringgenberg STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Flinn, Kucharzak, Brown, Munson, Williams HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION MEMBERS PRESENT: Watson, Barcelo, Turner, Gill, Futrell RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 1. The Housing Commission recommends to the City Council: a) that an application for 25 additional units of Section 8 Existing, and b) that an application for 100 units Elderly Public Housing be prepared. Moved, Krause, seconded Logan, approved 5/0. 2. The Housing Commission recommends to the City Council that the unencumbered monies returned from the sale of public housing land that was earmarked by CCN for River City Housing Collective be given back to the Housing Commission for further recommendation. Moved Logan, seconded Krause, approved 4/1. 3. The Housing Commission supports the City Council response to the School Board on the disposal of the south half of the block of Central Junior High for Congregate Housing and further recommends that the bidding documents for disposal of the site also consider 202 Elderly Housing, if an acceptable developer for Congregate Housing cannot be found. Moved Krause, seconded Logan, approved 5/0. 4. The Housing Commission recommends to the City Council that if no private developer comes forward to purchase the pipe yard parcel, that they consider it for 202 Housing. Approved 5/0. 1. Meeting to order - Meeting was called to order by Chairperson Haendel at 3:30 p.m. 2. Minutes of meeting of December 1, 1982 - moved Vander Zee, seconded Logan that minutes be approved as mailed. Approved 4/0. 3. Coordinator's Report - Seydel Section 8 Existing - Seydel reported 35 applications submitted for approval and two found not eligible. One ineligible person was former tenant who abandoned property leaving a large amount due. The MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JANUARY 5, 1983 PAGE 2 second ineligible applicant is a disabled person who was evicted from previous unit for repeated violation of rules regarding unregistered guests .and pets, damage to a refrigerator, and being $490.00 in arrears in rent. Seydel reported that a request for an appeal of certificate size had been received, but that appellant had withdrawn the request immediately prior to meeting. Robert Long, speaking on behalf of appellant confirmed that it was her intent that the appeal be withdrawn. Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation - Seydel recommended this be tabled until next month. Public Housing 22-3 - no problems. Van purchased from these funds has been delivered. Public Housing 22-4 - on or ahead of schedule. Application for additional units - Seydel quoted a news bulletin in the Housing & Development Reporter indicating Congress had passed an 8.65 billion dollar budget for Assisted Housing for FY83 including 14,000 units, Section 202, no public housing development, and 67,146 additional Section 8 Certificates (in addition to conversions). He explained that the "in addition to conversions" is assumed to refer to conversions to the voucher system. With this in mind, he recommended that we apply for an additional 25 units Section 8 Existing and 100 units Elderly Public Housing. Moved Krause, second Logan, that the Housing Commission recommends to the City Council 1) that an application be prepared for 25 additional units of Section 8 Existing, and 2) that an application for 100 units elderly public housing be prepared. Approved 5/0. 4. Housing Rehabilitation - Tabled until February meeting at request of Chair. 5. Civil Rights Ordinance - Discussion with Human Rights Commission The following questions and concerns were raised concerning the procedures of the Human Rights Commission as well as the content and intent of the proposed changes in the ordinance: a. Krause indicated one concern was that it did not seem appropriate to hold the public hearing prior to meeting with the Housing Commission in that the ordinance impacts on housing in the community. b. Krause asked what rights property owners and tenants should have regarding their moral or religious beliefs. CCS. ':r• ii �: i'..��M.. � i„•n• :.i(•,.<•� V. (i !'.!r :i•. .,.�. .. . 'T. '�1'! � I ��:f'•'.. .. t\'• .. .. '!.� ..r ,.Y,�.- nT.l A1f'`ylis l:;���f�.: :.. 451/f MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JANUARY 5, 1983 PAGE 3 C. Questions were raised as to the incidence of discrimination against gays and what concrete data there is on abuse in cases of sexual preference. Haendel questioned Iva Hilleman as to any complaints the apartment owners had received charging discrimination on the grounds of sexual preference. Hilleman advised that she was not aware of any; that she felt*homosexuals are protected by the same provisions as heterosexuals in that it takes 30 days to evict and the grounds for eviction are set out by State Code. d. Vander Zee stated he has a hard time visualizing or understanding how this would work. He stated he believes a person has the right to do what s/he wants in the privacy of their own home as long as it does not impinge on the rights of others. He questions how it becomes an issue. How does sexual preference become a matter of discrimination? Has there been advertising "no gays allowed"? e. Logan differentiated between the protection of constitutional rights and the protection of rights of individuals and classes of persons who have choices. f. Questions were raised about the rights of individuals who have raised their children and who desire some peace and tranquility at a later stage in their life being denied the opportunity when there are numerous complexes that do rent to persons with children. Members of the Human Rights Commission defined their role and indicated that it was their belief that protected classes should be covered in all areas of the Code. They did indicate that there is some difficulty with the language and that they will be meeting with the City legal staff to clarify that. They did indicate that dependents will be broken out from marital status in the revision. They indicated that public comment has centered more about requiring admission to children than about the sexual preference issue. However, it was brought out in both cases that the visibility of their activities was a consideration. Mark Hamer, speaking on behalf of the Apartment Owners Association, indicated one of the real problems in Iowa City is that we have a housing shortage, and that it affects everything that is going on. He advised that the Housing Commission needs to look at the interplay of all the regulations and their affect on housing. There is already a reluctance of investors to build in Iowa City, and we need to focus on housing as a primary concern and need to look at ways of increasing housing stock instead of diminishing it. Hamer suggested a task force coupling landlords, tenants, and Commission members to look at increasing the quantity of housing. He stated that there is y// MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JANUARY 5, 1983 PAGE 4 very little cheap housing in Iowa City, and what new housing is under construction is very expensive housing. He further indicated no one wants rent controls, that the solution is more housing. River City Housing Collective - David Brown reported that he had reviewed the Articles of Incorporation and By -Laws in context of Federal Rules and Regulations for CDBG funds. He read from Section 570.200 A-2 of the Rules and Regulations relative to compliance, and expressed concern that it has to be a public place. By -Laws provide membership to be determined by policies adopted by the Board of Directors, but at this time there is no written policy. At the present time, membership is almost exclusively University people. To comply with "public purpose" membership practices would have to be more open. Brown further advised that question had been raised regarding a Possible conflict of interest since Dan Daly has served on CCN during the past year, and indicated this would have to be clarified through HUD. Brown further indicated any organization to whom the City was allocating funds liance with Cit codes. It as pointedwould checked have to be out th t thereare so eolanguage problems with zoning and housing code relative to practice of mixing single and married persons in rooming units. Haendel pointed out that the Housing Commission has set priorities and has been working very hard for some time to satisfy the need for Congregate Housing and Emergency Housing and that any monies that j become available should go toward meeting those priority needs. Logan suggested backing off for 12 months while River City had a chance to resolve the legal and technical problems, and then review again in 12 months. Daly pointed out there several houses on the market right now that might not be available by then. Vander Zee indicated that this would help to alleviate the housing shortage there wilroblem l ehat addit9 nal CDBGidollars allocatedrthis year. out that Seydel pointed out that there are technical concerns that should be considered by the Commission: 1) that rules and regulations distinguish between individuals and families, and that it is the role of the Commission to provide for families (families to include single persons over 62, handicapped or disabled); 2) regulations state you must show a serious need for the allocation of these dollars; 3) must show a public purpose served. Seydel additionally pointed out, that if there are $65,000 available to alleviate a housing shortage or housing need, it should come to the Housing Commission to set the priority. :. e:' ii•✓C�ili �i'L %o''`: �i j•�.^%7•ia i..y �•P�^:"' .:\-.� •: i.T'C 'l :h...a.-o-y.i.'. y�/ MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JANUARY 5, 1983 PAGE 5 Concerns were expressed about the timing of CCN meetings in relation to those of the Housing Commission and that decisions are continually being made before the Housing Commission has had a chance to review or discuss them, thus causing problems, not only for citizen committee members, but also to those persons or groups who come before them with legitimate requests. Haendel expressed her feeling that since this came before the Commission after the fact, that if there is $65,000 to be utilized for housing, that we should recommend to City Council that they refer it back to the Housing Commission and that the Commission review it in light of their priorities. Moved Logan, seconded Krause that the Housing Commission recommends to the City Council that the unencumbered monies returned from the sale of public housing land that was earmarked by CCN for River City Housing Collective be given back to the Housing Commission for further recommendation. Approved 4/1. 7. Congregate Housing - Munson asked for recommendations prior to February meeting. Would like approval of report with modifications desired by Commission. Moved Krause, seconded Farran, that we approve the report in principle. Approved 5.0. New Construction - Kucharzak reported that the City Council was favorably impressed with the concept of the proposal and recommended that the City Attorney and City Manager get together with the School Board and their attorney to discuss the sale of the land to a private developer for the purpose of Congregate Housing. The Commission discussed this recommendation along with possibility of utilizing 202 funding if no developer were found to purchase the land and made the following recommendation: The Housing Commission supports the City Council response to the School Board on the disposal of the south half of the block of Central Junior High for Congregate Housing and further recommends that the bidding documents for disposal of the site also consider 202 Elderly Housing, if an acceptable developer for Congregate Housing cannot be found. Moved Krause, seconded Logan, approved 5/0. Kucharzak advised that Paul Lawton will be coming to Iowa City February 14 and 15. He will be meeting with the University primarily on the 14th and will meet with the Housing Commission on the 15th. Mr. Lawton indicated he had read the materials sent to him and agreed to come based on the efforts of the Housing Commission. Workshop will be planned for February 15. Commissioners should be providing input for topics to be covered. MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION JANUARY 5, 1983 PAGE 6 8. Other Business The sale of the City pipe yard was discussed. Moved Vander Zee, seconded Logan, that the Housing Commission recommend to the City Council that if no private developer comes forward to purchase the pipe yard parcel, that they consider it for 202 Housing. Approved 5/0. Commission discussed improving housing stock in Iowa City and made the following recommendations: 1) that accessory apartments be discussed at the next meeting; and 2) that the City provide encouragement prior to the arrival of next year's students to private property owners to consider roomers. Kucharzak advised Housing Appeals Board members that they should use the microphone and advised of designated smoking areas. 9. CCN - It was suggested that CCN change their meeting time. 10. Adjournment - Moved Logan, second Farran, that meeting be adjourned. Approved 5/0. Adjourned 6:00 p.m. Approved: - Goldene B. Haendel Chairperson -I MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 1983 MEMBERS PRESENT: Haendel, Ringgenberg, Krause, Karstens, Logan MEMBERS ABSENT: Farran, VanderZee STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Flinn, Brown, Barnes, Kucharzak, Hencin RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 1. The Housing Commission recommends to City Council that they not schedule for discussion the proposed changes in the Civil Rights Ordinance until the Housing Commission has had an opportunity to review and comment. DECISIONS OF COMMISSION: 1. That the Housing Commission uphold the Housing Coordinator's decision to deny the application of eligibility of Diane Crane, Application #2805, for the reason that she does not meet HUD's criteria for definition of a i family, specifically because her children do not live with her, and the unrelated person that was listed on the application --there is not enough evidence in the record to suggest that it is essential to her care and well-being. i RECOMMENDATIONS TO STAFF: I 1. The Housing Commission requests that the City Attorney look into the feasibility and legality of adopting some sort of application fee system for housing appeals. I 2. The Housing Commission requests that the City Manager assign staff to research criteria for providing sufficient security in the event rehabilitation loans are provided to contract purchasers. i 3. The Housing Commission requests that the City Manager assign staff the task of incorporating the language relative to accessory apartments, reviewed and endorsed earlier by the Housing Commission, into the Zoning Ordinance and explore possibility of Council moving up consideration of this section of the ordinance. The Commission further requests that public information be disseminated to encourage homeowners to consider taking a student roomer this fall. The Commission requests that appropriate measures be taken immediately, so that program might be in place prior to September 1. 1. Meeting to order - Meeting was called to order by Chairperson Haendel at 3:07 p.m. 2. Minutes - January 3, 1983 - Moved Karstens, second Ringgenberg, that minutes be approved as mailed. Approved 4/0. Minutes - February 9, 1983 - Approved 4/0 with correction item 4, paragraph 3, to include "Approved 4/0" on motion by Karstens, seconded by Ringgenberg. ill IOWA CITY HOUSING AUT'^?ITY MARCH 2, 1983 PAGE 2 3. Appeal - Application #2805 - Brown queried Rutledge as to accuracy of transcript. Rutledge and Seydel summarized their contentions regarding the eligibility of the applicants. Kucharzak reaffirmed that decisions were made based on eligibility criteria and past history and no projections were made on anticipated or expected performance. Brown recommended decision be made in writing, based on the evidence provided at the hearing, and stating legal and evidentiary grounds for the decision. Ringgenberg moved, Logan seconded, that the Housing Commission uphold the Housing Coordinator's decision to deny the application of eligibility of Diane Crane, Application #2805, for the reason that she does not meet HUD's criteria for definition of a family, specifically because her children do not live with her, and the unrelated person that was listed on the application --there is not enough evidence in the record to suggest that it is essential to her care and well-being. Approved 5/0. 4. Update - Criteria and fee schedules for recording variances for appeals. Brown advised that he had contacted six cities in Iowa, all of whom have variance powers, and found that only Davenport had adopted a policy of recording variances. They have a "Certificate of Use Restriction" that puts the buyer on notice that when the property is sold, the restriction will attach to the property. Brown advised that in certain types of variances (i.e. owner -occupied duplex), the Commission may wish to consider recording. He advised that they might further consider how such conditional variances are phrased. Brown indicated that he does not feel it is necessary to record such variances, since a conscientious buyer would check with the Housing Department before buying a property anyway. Karstens expressed concern that many citizens are not aware of a Housing Appeals Board or the fact that variances may be granted that attach to a property only so long as there is no change in ownership. Krause concurred and indicated he sees no reason why the cost could not be passed on to the property owner. Commission discussed costs of providing this service as well as costs of hearing appeals. It was moved by,Krause, seconded by Karstens, and approved 5/0 that the City Attorney look into the feasibility and legality of adopting some sort of fee application system for housing appeals. 5. Ramifications of contract sales prior to changes in property ownership requirements for housing rehabilitation - Brown expressed concern that the City have sufficient security for the loan (i.e., first mortgage, deed of trust, etc.). Appropriate safeguards were discussed. Karstens moved, Krause seconded, that the City Manager assign staff to research criteria and bring back a recommendation to Commission. Approved 5/0. Discussion - Revisions to Civil Rights Ordinance re housing. Revised proposed changes to Civil Rights Ordinance were distributed. Moved Krause, second Karstens, that the Housing Commission recommend to City Council that they not schedule for discussion these proposals until Housing Commission has had an opportunity to review and comment. Approved 5/0. Roomers in single family homes/accessory apartments - present goal is to get word out this summer, so that possibly some elderly couples might take 7�� IOWA CITY HOUSING AUT 71TY MARCH 2, 1983 PAGE 3 -in some students this fall. Concept of accessory apartments, special use permits and targeted population were discussed. Two options to help house more students without requiring new construction were discussed: 1) Roomers - whereby two unrelated people can move in with a family, and 2) Accessory apartments - whereby approval of Planning and Zoning Commission would allow another family to share an otherwise single-family home. Karstens moved, seconded by Ringgenberg, that the City Manager assign staff the task of incorporating the language relative to accessory apartments into the new Zoning Ordinance and explore possibility of Council moving up consideration of this section of the ordinance so that program might be in place prior to September 1. Approved 5/0. 8. Congregate Housing - Kucharzak advised Munson was unavailable due to a sprained ankle. He advised congregate housing is on hold pending directive from City Council. 9. Housing Rehabilitation - Barnes presented loan for 1717 F Street. Indicated the house has no legal bathroom. Moved Karstens, seconded Logan, that loan be approved. Approved 5/0. 10. CCN Report - Hencin reported on Council recommendations for CDBG funds. Logan questioned the collaterization of monies allocated to Systems Unlimited and was advised there will be a contract between the City and Systems Unlimited. Hencin suggested designating an alternate representative for CCN and Karstens agreed to serve, if necessary, in April. 11. Coordinator's Report - Seydel reported housing assistance payments on 392 units in March with three or four anticipated late starts for $67,215.50. Fifteen applications were submitted for approval. Planning staff is going to hire a part-time person to update rental housing survey to provide more specific information on rents, amenities, etc. Public Housing 22-3 - Still do not have an approved budget for this year. Housing Coordinator is currently submitting revised budget. Indications are that we will end year with more income credits than expenditure debits. Public Housing 22-4 - Seydel reported developer has advisedproject will be completed by July 15. He will start advertising the first week in April. The Housing Authority will accept applications until May 16, at which time the Authority will determine eligibility and make tenant selection in June. The Housing Coordinator anticipates 100% occupancy by July 18. 12. Discussion - priorities Commission discussed several priorities and possible sources of money for funding same. Congregate Housing remains high priority. A combination of funding possibilities was discussed (i.e., HUD -202, housing bonds, CDBG, and housing reserves to write-down land costs). Chairperson Haendel requested a list of housing projects be sent to Commission for review and discussion before prioritizing. IOWA CITY HOUSING AUTO JITY MARCH 2, 1983 PAGE 4 Replacement of Commission members - Commissioners agreed to solicit support from community. Meeting time - Consensus that a change of meeting time was inappropriate prior to replacement of Commissioners whose terms expire. MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 1983 3:00 P.M. 'MEMBERS PRESENT: " `Karstens, 'Vander Zee, 'Logan', 'Krause, Ringgenberg, Schlechte (appointee) MEMBERS ABSENT: Haendel, Farran STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Flinn, Kucharzak, Munson RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 1. The Housing Commission recommends to the City Council that they not review the proposed changes in the Civil Rights Ordinance until such time as the two Commissions can get together to resolve their many differences. COMMENDATIONS 1) Certificates of commendation were presented to Leonard Vander Zee and Carol Karstens in recognition of their many contributions to the Housing Commission. 1. MEETING TO ORDER. Meeting to order by Vice -Chairperson Karstens at 3:04 p.m. 2. Commission members and staff introduced themselves to new appointee Schlechte. 3. Correction be made to minutes of March 2, 1983, noted changing "Housing Authority" to "Housing Commission." Moved Ringgenberg, seconded Krause, that minutes be approved as amended. Approved 4/0. 4. Review and recommendations proposed changes Civil Rights Ordinance. Commission reviewed definitions of proposed ordinance and recommended previous recommendations be reaffirmed. Commission members expressed concerns that they were not afforded the opportunity to work out their differences with the Human Rights Commission. The Housing Commission does not feel that in the area of 'housing the new protected classes are necessary and feels that they should be rejected in that these proposed amendments would be counter-productive to the housing needs of this community. Logan indicated he feels the proposed changes touch the basics in all areas --that he doesn't think language can be written to cover all the ambiguities. Krause indicated he was not concerned with its being comprehensive enough, but rather found it so comprehensive as to be ambiguous. Logan stated that lends it to interpretation, so that everyone can use it. Krause interjected that everyone cannot use it --the landlords and people who are administering apartments are left with a very explosive position as far as evictions, rental collections, etc. are concerned; it is a one-sided document. .::/:a} .P.1;.: .:u:vp f, tl^::ant. ... .. 'a`.. .y.,,.,.•:. •.r.• ;.L (,J°Y it.;•�:vi✓e."'.:,a�*v.. �.•�,... y// I I IOWA CITY HOUS COMMISSION APRIL 6, 1983 PAGE 2 Karstens indicated she agrees and feels the Housing Commission has an obligation to both sides. Krause stated that there is so much that we disagree with here that he would move that we recommend to the City Council that until such time as the Human Rights Commission and Housing Commission get together to hammer out some language upon which both can agree, that they not review the document. Seconded Ringgenberg. Discussion: Vander Zee indicated Commission should either agree or disagree, but feels it is the role of the Human Rights Commission to work out the details of the ordinance. Krause pointed out that if you look at it in the broad sense, it is the role of the Housing Commission to promote housing in Iowa City and this ordinance in its present form would discourage housing rather than create it. Vander Zee interjected that, if that is what the Commission has to say, to say it to Council, not ask that we work it out with the Human Rights Commission. Seydel advised that if the Commission chooses to disapprove, that they should give reasons for said disapproval. Karstens called for a vote on the motion on the floor. Approved 3-1- 1. (Aye: Karstens, Ringgenberg, Krause; Nay: VanderZee; Abstain: Logan; Absent: Haendel, Ferran) 5. Congregate Housing - Kucharzak advised that congregate housing is basically on hold pending a resolution of the Central Junior High site. Dave Munson introduced Millie Moffett who discussed material for a master's thesis with him and selected admission and relocation policies for congregate housing for her studies. Ms. Moffett described the parameters of her study and indicated she is working with'a group of elderly residents who are interested in congregate housing. Moffett distributed a copy of a survey to be utilized in interviewing managers of existing elderly complexes. She suggested putting together a one-page leaflet for people interested in elderly housing describing location, size, restrictions, etc. Kucharzak suggested that, if the results of Moffett's survey are deemed beneficial, that the Commission might wish to provide printing for its distribution to the community. Moved Krause, seconded Ringgenberg, that consideration be given to providing printing of leaflet for distribution to the community. Approved 5/0. 6. Housing Inspection - Kucharzak reported firefighters have been transferred again --that appr6ximately 27 of 51 have been trained to date. Kucharzak reported that he was instructed to advise Housing Commission that the City Council is not in favor of charging application fees for filing appeals as well as the rationale. However, Council statements were not available in written form prior to meeting, but will be obtained from City Clerk and relayed to Commission members. Krause moved that the Housing Commission go back to the City Council with the document that has the proposal for fees, the advantages, the disadvantages, and the recommendation and try it one more time. Second Vander Zee. Approved 4/0. Kucharzak will work with Legal in preparing such document. Kucharzak reported 590 new dwelling units (new construction) added this year. IOWA CITY HOUS,''COMMISSION APRIL 6, 1983 PAGE 3 7. CCN Report - Vander Zee reported $36,000 anticipated in receipts from sale of property in the Lower Ralston Creek area. CCN recommended that $12,000 be applied to update of flood plain maps. Effective in June CCN is changing meeting time to 3:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month. New jobs bill is passing through Congress making available 178,000 to 180,000 that needs to be spent within six months. Can be used for construction, labor intensive activities. Vander Zee reported that Independent Living Center has not been able to come up with the collateral funding before July 1 deadline to utilize the $73,000 allocated for the Independent Living Center, thus, he made a motion which was approved recommending that the $73,000 allocated for Independent Living Center be added to the $75,000 allocated this year for public housing site acquisition. Then, if Independent Living comes up with appropriate collateral funding next year, $73,000 of the public housing site acquisition for that year's allocation would go to Independent Living. Karstens appointed Krause as liaison to the Committee on Community Needs. 8. Coordinator's Report - Seydel reported HAP payments on 396 units in April for a total of $68,224.56, and 38 new applications approved. New fair market rents have not yet been approved. Public Housing 22-3 - remains fully occupied. Revised budget will be on Council agenda Tuesday (April 12, 1983). Public Housing 22-4 - on schedule. Have started advertising and are receiving many calls. Coordinator will be attending NAHRO Spring Conference 13th through 15th at Mariott in Des Moines. Regional NAHRO Conference will also be there sometime in May or June. Commissioners interested in attending should get requests in. Appeal - Seydel reported that complainant had been advised of hearing and notified of his right to appear, but that he was not present. Seydel recommended that Commission respond in writing as if it were an appeal. Seydel reviewed the following information with the Commission: 1) Complainant was residing in present unit before starting to receive rental assistance. 2) Housing Assistance Payments contracts between the University and the Housing Authority were negotiated and extended through May 31, 1983. 3) A lease was executed between complainant and the University extending through May 17, 1983. 4-41// r, IOWA CITY HOUS1.,d COMMISSION APRIL 6, 1983 PAGE 4 4) There is no written agreement between complainant and the University mutually agreeing to early termination of lease. 5) If the heating system is inadequate, the complaint is with the University, not the Housing Authority. '" .";' It was moved by Vander Zee, seconded by Krause, approved 4/0, that a letter be sent to complainant outlining the following options available: 1) Obtain written mutual agreement from the University and provide at least 30 days notice to the Housing Authority. 2) Sublease unit according to paragraph 6 of the University of Iowa Family Housing Lease Terms and Conditions. 3) Pay off the full rent for the remaining term of present lease to enable Housing Assistance Payments on another unit. 4) Forfeit eligibility for rental assistance and move to a unit of complainant's choice. 9. General Discussion - Certificates of Commendation were presented to Vander Zee and Karstens. Remaining members of Commission congratulated Len Vander Zee and Carol Karstens for their many contributions to the Housing Commission. Vander Zee expressed his appreciation for the support of the other Commission members. Karstens expressed gratitude for Commission and staff support provided over the past three years. 10. Adjournment - Moved Ringgenberg, seconded Krause, that meeting be adjourned. Adjourned 5:00 p.m. Approved by Carol A. Karstens Acting Chairperson f/W i -City of Iowa City, MEMORANDUM Date: April 13, 1983 To: City Council / From: Goldene Haendel, Chairpersons, Housing Commission.,./ The Housing Commission at its regular meeting on April 6, discussed the proposed changes to the Human Rights Ordinance presently before the Council.. The Commission, by a vote of 3-1-1 recommends the Council table the proposed amendments until the two commissions can get together and resolve many of their differences. Rationale for this recommendation follows: A. The Housing Commission met with the Human Rights Commission during its regular meeting of January 5, 1983, and provided input for consideration by the Human Rights Commission. It is apparent little, if any, consideration was given to our suggestions. B. This ordinance does and will continue to have an effect on housing, and, specifically, the rental housing market. The Housing Commission is dedicated to increasing the availability of good housing in the community. This is best done by encouraging private enterprises to produce that housing, and anything counter-productive to this goal' must be given very serious consideration. The proposed changes will further restrict and/or place additional burdens on landlords and encroach on the control one can exercise over their private property and will tend to discourage investments in rental property. C. The Housing Commission feels obligated to make their views known to the Council, but does not feel obligated to re -write to the document. Some specific problem areas follow: . 1. The definition of agee'appears to be the definition of an adult. Age would be better defined as the physical/chronological age of any person. Add the definition of an adult. 2. The definition of dependent is not adequate. It is suggested the definition used by IRS or Social Security be utilized. 3. . The definition of complaint and complainant should be changed to read report of alleged discrimination. Also complainant should read an adult person. 4. Typo error. Definition of credit transaction, last phrase "when such credit is extended" not "discredit". 5. Definition of disability is not adequate. Simply because one is sterile or cannot bear children (a major life activity) does not constitute a disability. Recommend the definition used by HUD or Social Security be utilized. ��� 6. Definition of marital status is not adequate. Utilizing the definition of married as satisfying the requirement of Iowa State Code is suggested. 7. Definition of person -- add the word "adult individuals". 8. Sec. 18-32 Housing; exceptions, paragraph (a)(1) through (4). The Housing Commission has many reservations concerning the inclusion of sex, sexual orientation, presence or absence of dependants and Public Assistance Source of income to these four paragraphs. When asked, the Civil Rights Commission could not document or provide the number of cases involving these items. Therefore, it is felt they are unnecessary. 9. Sec. 18-32, paragraph (b)(3). Suggest this entire paragraph be deleted as unnecessary. There are several non-profit sponsors - some of them religious group sponsors that should be covered by the regulation. As can be noted from the above comments, considerable re -writing of the ordinance is necessary before adoption. This is the basis of the Housing Commission's recommendation that the Council not act on the ordinance until these points are corrected. t� tp3/6-7 i MINUTES Iowa City Housing Commission February 28, 1984 MEMBERS PRESENT: Krause, Logan, Haendel, Ringgenberg, Knox MEMBERS ABSENT: Schelchte, Trevor STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Flinn, Brown, Williams I. Meeting to Order - Meeting called to order by Chairperson Krause at 1:05 p.m. in Meeting Room A of the Iowa City Public Library. 2. Krause asked if there was a member of the Human Rights Commission who wished to speak to the proposed changes. Krause indicated that there was some dialogue with the Human Rights Commission, but it was understood that they would come back to work on a compromise. Futrell, representing the Human Rights Commission, indicated that they had met with the Housing Commission, and were aware of con- cerns, but did not understand that more was required. Krause asked if they did incorporate any of the suggestions of the Housing Commis- sion into the proposed ordinance, and Futrell advised she did not know. John Watson, former Chairperson of Human Rights Commission, indicated that they heard concerns, but assumed them to be indivi- dual concerns, not as a body. Seydel referenced the Housing Com- mision's Memorandum to City Council dated April 13, 1983 wherein the Housing Commission recommended the Council table the proposed amendments until the two commissions could get together and resolve their many differences. Futrell indicated she did not know what the concerns were about, procedural or concerns about the ordinance itself. Krause advised that the concern is about housing in Iowa City, and the Commission feels this ordinance will affect that housing, and that there is a concern about protocol. Haendel affirmed that Housing Commission expected them (Human Rights Commission) to come back 'to Housing Commission before going to Council. Krause explained that there is necessarily overlap between Commissions, but that the Housing Com- mission has been able to work cooperatively with CCN since they have coordinated activities, and he wonders why Human Rights Commission cannot work with Housing Commission. Krause questioned the reason for making these changes at this time and what supporting documentation was available. He further ques- tioned the impact upon the elderly, if the change relative to fami- lies is adopted. Mark Hamer, representing the Apartment Owners Association, pointed out that there is competition between families and elderly persons, and that both groups should have equal access to the housing market. Hamer pointed out when you give specific rights to persons with children, you take away rights from young professionals without children and elderly persons who do not want to live around children. -2 Krause questioned Hamer on rationale for landlords not wanting to rent to families with children. Hamer advised that when building to accommodate children, different facilities, safety measures, and materials are required as well as adequate green areas provided for play space all of which add to the cost of construction, and ultimately increase rents. He pointed out the goal has been to provide more and better low-cost housing. Nancy McDonald indicated she has been living in a quiet building comprised of graduate students and young professionals for a number of years, and is terrified of having to move. She feels she is being discriminated against because she needs her quiet and has a happy home which she will have to give up if children are allowed. Futrell indicated that conflicting life styles and compatability is not something this ordinance is trying to address. Krause stated we are against pitting one class against another. Krause asked Phyllis Williams of specific complaints. She stated that from November, 1980 to January 1984, a total of 69 inquiries on housing had been received. Of the 69, eight were on basis of marital status, seven from people who felt they were being treated differently because of dependents, two on income, and three on the basis of sexual orientation. Hamer pointed out that alleged discrimination is currently regulated by state law and did not feel 20 inquiries in 39 months in a tight housing market is sufficient justification to adding anymore bureaucracy. Norman Bailey pointed out he does not believe the Apartment Owners are against human rights and adding additional restrictions will impose higher costs on the tenants and promote friction between classes. Logan questioned what was wrong with the reporting and review mechanisms set forth in the ordinance. Hamer and Bailey both cited examples of the ease of filing complaints, and the time and expense involved on the part of the landlord in defending against it. Watson reiterated that they are simply trying to provide equal access to the housing market place; that persons have a right to decent, sanitary housing and have a right to their own life style within that housing. Krause asked what if you are a young professional, or middle aged, or older, and wanted a quiet place. Bailey indicated he would like to see the section pertaining to children be written so that all persons who have rights can be taken into considera- tion. He stated it needs to be hammered out for a more equitable solution. Bailey expressed a willingness to work more closely with the Housing Commis- sion. Knox indicated she feels children are a vulnerable group. Beth questioned how closely Apartment Owners Association and Human Rights Commission had worked. She said we all have our own ideas about where we would like to live and it is hard to determine whose interests are more important. She indicated a compromise is needed, but believes it is up to Council to do it. Logan indicate he believes we should go ahead with the changes and trust the review mechanisms. Haendel indicated she cannot support the ordinance as it stands. Krause stated he felt the proposal is capricious, arbitrary and vague and until such time as a compromise is developed, he cannot support the ordinance. Seydel reported that Housing staff will provide copies of correspon- dence and Minutes for Council. He indicated he has been in his posi- tion for 15 years and has found that there is an adequate number of units in Iowa City for families with children. City has added 52 units --all families. Cedarwood added 60 family units. 3. Adjournment - moved Logan, second Haendel, that meeting be adjourned. Adjourned 2:30 p.m. Approved by: