HomeMy WebLinkAbout1984-10-23 Bd Comm. minutesMINUTES
IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984 - 9:30 A.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Krause, Trevor, Moore, Haendel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Logan, Schlecte, Dawson
STAFF PRESENT: Flinn, Nugent, Hencin, Brown, Barnes
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
1. That the Housing Commission endorses the Housing Rehabilitation Program
and Manuals as presented.
2. The Housing Commission recommends approval of the Shared Housing Program
and recommends implementation as soon as possible.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CCN:
1. That the Housing Commission recommends that funds be allocated for
continuance of the Housing Rehabilitation Program, and that 35% of these
funds go for low-interest loans.
2. The Housing Commission requests an additional $15,000 FY85 CDBG funding
for the Shared Housing Program.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. That the Danny Northrup hearing be delayed until appropriate person can be
present and the appropriate materials be made available.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS:
The following officers were elected and appointments made:
Fred Krause, Chairperson
Alvin Logan, Vice -Chairperson
Alvin Logan, Representative CCN
Fred Krause, Alternate Representative to CCN
1. Meeting to Order - Meeting called to order by Chairperson Krause at 10:05
a.m.
2. Minutes - Minutes of meeting held August 14, 1984, were approved as
mailed on motion by Haendel, seconded by Moore, approved 4/0.
3. Coordinator's Report - Flinn reported Housing Assistance Payments on
September 1, 1984, in the amount of $79,182.25 for 422 units. 37 new
applications were submitted for approval. She reported a turnover of two
units in the Public Housing Program with all units full. Flinn advised
that an amendment to the Annual Contributions Contract for Public Housing
will be submitted to Council on September 25, 1984, to bring it in line
with the actual development costs for 22-3.
Hearing Danny Northtrdp - Janice Rutledge from Legal Services Corp.
appeared on behalf of Danny Northrup. David Brown explained that he was
appearing as legal counsel representing the Housing Authority and
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IOWA CITY HOUSING CON-fSSION
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984 - 9:30 A.M.
PAGE 2
speaking for Mr. Seydel, not as advisor to the Housing Commission. Brown
requested on behalf of the Housing Authority that this matter be contin-
ued until the next meeting since Mr. Seydel is the best person to present
factual testimony on behalf of the Housing Authority. Rutledge resisted
stating the Housing Authority has the personnel who can speak to this
issue and that a delay would be an undue hardship on her client. She
indicated Mr. Northrup has just been declared disabled by Social Secu-
rity, that he has currently housing in a rooming house situation with no
cooking facilities, and that he shares a bathroom with seven persons.
She further indicated that Social Services can only provide General
Relief for three months. Motion Trevor, seconded by Moore, that the
Danny Northrup hearing be delayed until appropriate person can be present
and the appropriate materials be made available. Approved 4/0. Hearing
continued. Rutledge requested that materials and personnel be present at
the next meeting; that it be the next October meeting instead of some
other meeting. Brown stated that the City has no objection to that, or
if it would be the Commission's pleasure to schedule a Special Meeting
and the proper persons can be available, the City would have no objec-
tions to that. Krause requested the appropriate materials be made
available.
Housing Rehabilitation - At the request of Barnes, request for Forgivable
Loan postponed until next meeting.
Rental Rehabilitation Program - Hencin distributed Administrative Manual
for Rental Rehabilitation Program patterned after other operational
manuals and referenced the Affirmative Marketing Plan, the Tenants'
Assistance Policies, and the Map showing neighborhoods for the program as
mailed to Commission. He indicated the City of Iowa City has been
allocated $71,500 to be matched on a minimum of 50/50 basis with monies
from private property owner. The City would provide a maximum of $5,000
per unit on a deferred payment loan basis with a minimum expenditure of
$600 per unit. The City has been allocated 14 units Section 8 certifi-
cates to be utilized in conjunction with the program. Certificates could
be issued to current tenants, tenants who must move while unit is being
rehabilitated, or if they have to move for some other reason.
Krause questioned how this program differs from Moderate Rehabilitation
Program that could not be implemented. Hencin advised that under the
Rental Rehabilitation Program there are no fixed rents, no long-term (15
years) contract as required under program. Owner would be tied into a
ten year lien that would require compliance with Affirmative Fair
Marketing Plan for that period, but program considerably less restrictive
than other program. Moved Krause, seconded by Haendel that the Housing
Commission endorses the Housing Rehabilitation Program and Manuals as
presented. Approved 4/0.
5. CDBG Recommendations - Hencin advised that CCN is now hearing recommenda-
tions for FY85 Allocations of CDBG funds, and asked Housing Commission
for recommendations relative to programs they may wish to see continued.
Hencin presented a request for $180,000 for the Housing Rehabilitation
Program which would be utilized for rehabilitation or weatherization for
ten to twelve units plus staffing. Moved Haendel, seconded by Trevor,
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IOWA CITY HOUSING CO. .SSION
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984 - 9:30 A.M.
PAGE 3
that the Housing Commission recommend that funds be allocated for
continuance of the Housing Rehabilitation Program, and that 35% of these
funds go for low-interest loans. Approved 4/0.
Shared Housing - Nugent reported Shared Housing Program should.go before
Council first of October for approval of start-up money 'for the program.
Moved by Krause, seconded by Haendel, that Housing Commission recomnend
approval of the Shared Housing Program and recommend implementation as
soon as possible. Approved 4/0. Moved Haendel, seconded by Trevor, that
Housing Commission request an additional $15,000 FY85 CDBG funding for
Shared Housing Program. Approved 4/0.
Hencin reported CCN will be meeting this afternoon to hear additional
requests from other agencies.
6. Discussion of Meeting Time - Commission members discussed at the Housing
Appeals Board Meeting the difficulty in obtaining a quorum for meetings
and the ramifications of rescheduling, particularly when numerous appeals
are scheduled. Krause noted he has heard input from all members and
determined that the most convenient time for the majority of the Commis-
sion members is morning on the second Tuesday of each month. Chairperson
Krause set the dates and times for meetings through 1984 as follows:
Housing Commission Housing Appeals Board
October 9, 1984 9:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.
November 13, 1984 9:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.
December 11, 1984 9:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m.
Election of Officers - Fred Krause nominated as Chairperson by Haendel,
seconded by Trevor. Approved 4/0. Moore moved nominations cease and
that.a unanimous ballot be cast. Approved 4/0. Moved Haendel, seconded
by Trevor, that Al Logan be Vice -Chairperson. Approved 4/0. Moved Moore
that nominations cease and a unanimous ballot be cast, seconded Haendel.
Approved 4/0. Logan appointed as representative to CCN with Fred Krause
serving as alternate.
8. General Discussion - Krause read an excerpt of City Council minutes of
August 28, 1984, page 4, concerning Housing Commission and noted that "A
meeting of the Council and the Housing Commission re Shared Housing and
Congregate Housing will be scheduled in the near future." (Excerpt
attached)
9. Adjournment - Meeting adjourned at 10:40 a.m.
Approved:
Fred Krause
Chairperson
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MINUTES
IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 1984
MEMBERS PRESENT: Krause, Moore, Haendel, Trevor, Logan, Dawson
STAFF PRESENT: Brown, Seydel,•Flinn, Hencin,'Barnes
RECOMMENDATIONS TO STAFF:
That advertisements for vacancies on Housing Commission and Housing Appeals
Board include date and time meetings are regularly scheduled.
1. Meeting to Order - Meeting called to order at 9:45 a.m. by Chairperson
Krause.
2. Minutes - Minutes of September 12, 1984, meeting approved as mailed on
motion by Haendel, second by Moore, approved 6/0.
3. Coordinator's Report - Seydel reported rental assistance paid on 417
units October 1, 1984, for $78,328.00. At the request of Krause, Seydel
explained the application process through certification and lease -up. He
advised priority ranking system for placement of eligible applicants on
waiting list as follows:
1. Family displaced, or about to be displaced, by government action.
2. Elderly, handicapped or disabled.
3. Families with four or more minors.
4. The degree of substandard factors present in the existing housing of
the applicant.
5. The gross rent being paid by the applicant as it relates to their
income.
6. Veteran or serviceman or family of Veteran or serviceman.
7. •Residence in Iowa City.
8. Date of filing.
Seydel reported authorization has been received for 14 additional units
of Section 8 Existing Housing to be utilized in conjunction with the
Rental Rehabilitation Program. An additional 14 units are anticipated
for the next fiscal year.
Public Housing - Seydel reported •turnover of two units this month but
both have been reassigned. He advised verbal approval has been received
on ten additional units Public Housing Acquisition, but no written
affirmation.
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IOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
OCTOBER 9, 1984
PAGE 2
Danny Northrup Hearing - Seydel reported that he had been contacted by
Janice Rutledge, attorney for Mr. Northrup, who advised that Mr. Northrup
would be leaving the area and no longer desired housing assistance, so
request for appeal should be cancelled.
4. CCN Report - Hencin reported requests have been received for $1.7 million
in COBB funding; however, only $736,000 available for allocation. He
stated requests ranged $2,400 to $279,000. Commission was advised that
CCN would review requests and make recommendations to Council, who would
make the final decision on allocation of funds.
Congregate Housing - Krause indicated that Mary Parden had made a strong
plea to retain previously allocated funds for Congregate Housing. He
advised CCN agreed to leave alone until January 1, 1985, subject to
review of the progress on Congregate Housing at that time.
Krause advised that another Congregate Housing meeting was scheduled for
noon today (10-9-84) and commended Mary Nugent on the work she had done
with the Committee.
5. Housing Rehabilitation - Barnes requested law -interest loan (832 Rundell)
be discussed first since persons present to answer questions. She
distributed schematics of present house and proposed addition and
explained work to be completed and proposed financing arrangements.
Moved Dawson, seconded by Haendel that a low-interest loan be granted
contingent upon financing with Iowa Housing Finance Authority be closed
within 90 days and ability of purchasers to occupy premises in interim.
Approved 5/0. 1110'Franiilin - Moved Krause, seconded Haendel, that loan
be approved. Approved 5/0. 903 Webster - Moved Haendel, seconded by
Moore,• that forgivable loan be approved. Approved 5/0.
6. General Discussion - Sherri Johnson appeared on her own behalf to cite
the difficulties she has encountered while waiting for housing assis-
tance. Seydel explained the delay was due to the large number of
applicants on the waiting list and the priority rankings.
Seydel advised that Systems Unlimited has been approved for 21 units, 18
of which will receive Section 8 subsidies. He further advised that only
persons who fall at or below 50 percent median income may be certified
for assistance under both Public Housing and Section 8 programs.
Krause advised that Janet Schlechte has resigned due to scheduling
conflicts. Commissioners discussed the importance of applicants for the
Housing Commission being aware of the time of meetings and the extent of
responsibilities required of Commissioners. Consensus that advertisement
for vacancies on the Housing Commission and Housing Appeals Board should
include date and time meetings are regularly scheduled so that applicants
may be aware that these meetings are scheduled during normal working
hours.
Krause announced that the Housing Commission is invited to meet with the
City Council op Monday, October 22, 1984, at 7:45 p.m. to discuss the
Shared Housing and Congregate Housing programs.
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MINUTES
HOUSING APPEALS BOARD
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
MEMBERS PRESENT: Danel Trevor, Fred Krause, John Moore, Goldene Haendel
MEMBERS ABSENT: Janet Schlechte, Al Logan
STAFF PRESENT: Kelley Vezina, David Malone, David Brown, Judy Hoard
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND ACTION TAKEN:
Krause called the meeting to order. Moore made a motion to approve the
minutes of the August 14, 1984, meeting. Trevor seconded the motion. The
motion carried.
APPEAL OF MARCIA PITKIN - 207 FAIRCHILD:
Present: Marcia Pitkin.
Inspector Vezina stated that he had conducted the licensing inspection at
207-209 East Fairchild on April 25, 1984. The appeal request had not been
filed properly but the Appeals Board had granted appeal rights at the August
14, 1984, meeting. The violation being appealed was Chapter 17-5.N.(4) lack
of required 7' minimum ceiling height, 207, second floor, middle west
bedroom has a ceiling height of 6'10" and 207, second floor, northwest
bedroom has a 6'10-3/4" ceiling height.
Ms. Pitkin told the Board that the property was on the National Historic
Register and that she felt it would be very expensive to remodel to meet the
7' requirement. Trevor made a motion to grant a variance to Chapter
17-5.N.(4) lack of required 7' minimum ceiling height. Moore seconded the
motion. The motion carried.
APPEAL OF MICHAEL KLEIN - 119 NORTH GILBERT:
Present: Michael Klein.
Inspector Vezina reported that he had conducted a licensing inspection at 119
North Gilbert Street on June 13, 1984. The violation being appealed was
Chapter 17-5.N.(4) lack of required 7' minimum ceiling height, first floor
kitchen has a ceiling height of 6'7". Mr. Klein stated that he had owned the
property for nine years and that there had been no difficulties in the.usage
of the room. Haendel made a motion to grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.N.(4)
lack of required 7' minimum ceiling height. Moore seconded the motion. The
motion carried.
APPEAL OF JOHN ROLSTON - 402-04 MELROSE COURT:
Present: John Rolston.
Inspector Vezina reported that he had conducted a licensing inspection at
402-04 Melrose Court on April 20, 1984. The appeal request had not been
properly filed but the Appeals Board had granted appeal rights at the August
14, 1984, meeting. The violations being appealed are Chapter 17-5.1.(2)(a)
lack of required handrail, 402-04 stairs to basement lack a handrail and
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HOUSING APPEALS BOAR[
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 2
402-04 stairs to second floor lack a handrail. Mr. Rolston told the Board
that he had owned the property for 15 years and that there had been no
problems with the lack of a handrail on these sets of steps during that time
period. He explained that he felt it would be difficult to move anything of
size up and down the basement steps and that the basement was used for
storage. He told the Board that on the stairway to the second floor, the
first set of steps did have a handrail that was part of the wall at the side
of the steps and that only a few steps were not provided with a handrail and
that this was a narrow stairway to the second floor. When asked by the Board
members, Inspector Vezina stated that there were seven or eight risers to the
basement and at least four and possibly five risers on the steps not served
with a handrail to the second floor. Board member Haendel stated that she
understood the inconvenience in moving objects up and down the stairway that
the installation of a handrail would create but she explained that she was
very concerned about someone falling and injuring themselves because there
was no handrail to grab onto. Assistant City Attorney Brown explained to the
Board that in the past the Board has consistently required handrails in
similar situations and that this certainly fell under a health and safety
requirement.
Haendel made a motion to uphold both violations of Chapter 17-5.I.2(a) lack
of required handrail. Trevor seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Following the decision of the Appeals Board, Mr. Rolston again expressed his
concern about the installation of a handrail stating that he felt it would
detract from the appearance of the stairway. Chairperson Krause recommended
that he speak with one of the Housing Inspectors regarding the type and
placement of the required handrails.
APPEAL OF EVELYN 9AUMGARTNER - 941 WEBSTER:
Present: Evelyn Baumgartner.
Inspector Malone reported that he conducted a licensing inspection at 941
Webster on July 1, 1984. The violation being appealed was Chapter
17-5,N.(4)(a) lack of required ceiling height for room with sloping roof. The
second floor east bedroom has a ceiling height of 6'10" sloping down to 5'
and ,the second floor east bedroom has a ceiling height of 6'9" sloping down
to 5'. Ms. Baumgartner explained to the Board that the house was 75 to 100
years old. She had purchased the property in 1956 and had .done a consider-
able amount of remodeling since that -time. Trevor made a motion to grant a
variance to Chapter 17-5,N.(4)(a) lack of required ceiling height for room
with sloping roof. Haendel seconded the motion. The motion carried,
APPEAL OF JACK SCHUBATT AND JIM MCFALL - 215-15 1/2 RIVERSIDE COURT:
Present: Jack Schubatt.
Inspector Hoard reported that she had conducted a licensing inspection at
215-15 1/2 South Riverside Court on July 11, 1984. The appeal request had
not been filed within the proper time period but the Appeals Board had voted
to grant appeal rights at the August 14, 1984, meeting. The violations being
appealed are Chapter 17-S,M.(1) lack of required electrical outlet; 215-1/2
livingroom, convenience outlets are 1115" distance apart, lacking the
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HOUSING APPEALS BOARD
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 3
required minimum of 12'10"; and 215-1/2 bedroom, convenience outlets are
1119' distance apart, lacking the required minimum of 13'. Inspector Hoard
referred the Board members to the floor plan provided for them and explained
that the convenience outlets in the livingroom were located on the same wall
and in the bedroom were located on adjoining walls. Mr. Schubatt told the
Board that the outlets were located on poured cement walls and he felt it
would be difficult and expensive to move the outlets and due to the short
amount of distance that the outlets were lacking, he requested a variance
from the Appeals Board. Moore made a motion to grant a variance to both
violations of Chapter 17-5.M.(1) lack of required electrical outlet. Trevor
seconded the motion. The motion carried.
APPEAL OF NANCY HAUSERMAN - 730-30 1/2 NORTH LINN STREET:
Present: Nancy Hauserman.
Inspector Malone reported that he had conducted a licensing inspection at
730-30 1/2 North Linn Street on July 26, 1984. The first violation being
appealed was Chapter 17-5,I.(2)(a) lack of required handrail, steps to attic
lack a handrail. Inspector Malone explained to the Board that the steps were
located in the owner -occupied portion of the building. Ms. Hauserman
explained to the Board that because the stairway was located in the part of
the dwelling that she occupied, no one other than herself had access to the
attic which was used strictly for storage. There was some discussion from
the Board as to how similar violations had been handled in the past. Assis-
tant City Attorney Brown explained that because the particular violation was
located in the owner's dwelling unit, similar appeals had been granted a
variance so long as it remained owner -occupied. Krause made a motion to
grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.1 (2)(a) as long as the property was
owner -occupied. Haendel seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The next violation appealed was Chapter 17-S.M.(i) lack of required electri-
cal outlet, 730-1/2, southeast room, convenience outlets are not located the
required minimum 25 percent of the perimeter of the room apart. Inspector
Malone stated that this violation was located in the owner -occupied dwelling
unit and that property had been recently rewired. Ms. Hauserman stated that
a new circuit box had been installed and that the outlets had been placed in
the room to meet her own electrical needs in that room. Haendel made a
motion to grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.M.(1) lack of required electrical
outlets so long as the dwelling unit was owner -occupied. Moore seconded the
motion. The motion carried.
The next violation appealed was Chapter 17-5.M.(2) lack of required light
fixture or switched outlet, 730, west room lacks electrical light fixture or
switched outlet. Inspector Malone told the Board that this violation was
located in the rental portion of the structure. Ms. Hauserman explained to
the Board that this room was used as a bedroom by the tenants and was
adjoining the livingroom and diningroon and that they often left the door to
the bedroom open, thus they were provided with sufficient lighting from the
livingroom/diningroom. Haendel made a motion to uphold Chapter L7 -5.M.(2)
lack of required electrical light fixture or switched outlet. Trevor
seconded the motion. The motion carried.
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MINUTES
HOUSING APPEALS BOARL
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 4
APPEAL OF PHYLLIS WILLIAMS - 928 EAST DAVENPORT:
Present: Phyllis Williams.
Inspector Malone stated to the Board that he had conducted a reinspection at
928 East Davenport on August 1, 1984. Two of the violations that he was
inspecting for had not been corrected to meet the Housing Code requirements.
The violations were Chapter 17-5.J.(1) lack of required natural light and
17-5.K.(2)(b) lack of required natural ventilation, basement dwelling unit
livingroom/bedroom, area has 12 square feet of natural light, lacking the
required minimum of 14.92 square feet and has 5.4 square feet of natural
ventilation lacking the required minimum of 6.71 square feet. Inspector
Malone further stated that these two violations had been appealed by Ms.
Williams to the Appeals Board earlier in the year and at that time had been
upheld as violations. Ms. Williams explained to the Board that she had hired
a contractor and had given him the violation notice stating the violation and
the deficiency involved. She felt that she had made a good faith attempt to
correct the violation and was at this time requesting a variance from the
Appeals Board. Inspector Malone stated that the window that had been
installed met the requirements for secondary egressing. Haendei made a
motion to grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.J.(i) lack of required natural
light and 17-5.K.(2)(b) lack of required natural ventilation. Krause
seconded the motion. The motion carried.
APPEAL OF DICK BREAZEALE AND STEVEN BRIGHT - 1330 LOWER MUSCATINE:
Present: Dick Breazeale, Steven Bright.
Inspector Hoard stated that she had conducted a request inspection at 1330
Lower Muscatine on July 13, 1984. The -violations being appealed are Chapter
17-5.N.(4)(a) lack of required ceiling height for a room with sloping roof,
kitchen has ceiling height under 7' and southeast bedroom, 9.5 square feet of
floor area has ceiling height of 7' or more. Inspector Hoard stated that the
ceiling height in the kitchen ranged from 6'3' up to 7'3" and the ceiling
height in the southeast bedroom was from 6'2-1/2" up to 7'2-1/2". Mr.
Breazeale explained to the Board that he was in the process of purchasing the
property and that the previous owner's grandmother had lived in the property
for some 50 years. He felt that he was providing tenants moderately priced
housing and that it would be very expensive to remove the roof in order to
correct the violation. He passed around pictures to the Board members
showing the ceiling height in the kitchen and emphasized to the Board members
that this was an open roan with a cathedral type ceiling.
Haendei made a motion to grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.N.(4)(a) lack of
required ceiling height for roan with sloping ceiling. Moore seconded the
motion. The motion carried.
MINUTES
HOUSING APPEALS BOARC
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 5
APPEAL OF BRETT GORDON - 224 NORTH DUBUQUE STREET:
Present: None.
Inspector Malone explained to the Board that the appeal request had not been
filed within the ten day filing period. Haendel made a motion to grant
appeal rights. Krause seconded the motion. The motion carried. Inspector
Malone stated that he had conducted a licensing inspection at 224 North
Dubuque on February 23, 1984. The violation being appealed was Chapter
17-5.N.(4) lack of required 7' minimum ceiling height, the third floor
dwelling unit has a ceiling height of 6'6" to 6'7". Haendel made a motion to
grant a variance to Chapter 17-5.N.(4) lack of required 7' minimum ceiling
height. Krause seconded the motion. The motion carried.
Krause made a motion to continue the appeal of Joe Kaipo regarding 228 Brown
Street to the October meeting. Trevor seconded the motion. The motion
carried.
At this point the Board took a short recess as the final case was not
scheduled to be heard for several minutes and the appellant was not present.
After reconvening, there was discussion regarding the scheduling of the next
Housing Appeals Board/Housing Commission meeting. After the discussion, it
was decided by Chairperson Krause that the remaining meetings of the Appeals
Board/Housing Commission for 1984 would be held the second Tuesday of the
month beginning at 8:30 a.m.
APPEAL OF PRITT OHILLON - 219 - 219 1/2 SOUTH SUMMIT:
Present: Pritt Ohillon.
Inspector Hoard stated that she had conducted a licensing inspection at
219-219 1/2 South Summit Street on June 11, 1984. The first violation
appealed was Chapter 17-5.I.(2)(a) lack of required handrail. The first set
of steps from second floor to attic lack a handrail. Ms. Dhillon explained
to the Board that this violation had been corrected and that she wished to
withdraw the appeal.
The next violation appealed was Chapter 17-5.M.(1) lack of required electri-
cal outlet. 219, bedroom convenience outlets are 12'3" apart, lacking the
required minimum distance of 13'5" Inspector Hoard stated that the conven-
ience outlets were located on adjoining walls. Ms.- Dhillon stated that
because the convenience outlets were lacking such a short amount of distance
that she was requesting a variance. Haendel made a motion to grant a
variance to Chapter 17,-5.M.(1) lack of required electrical outlet. Moore
seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The next violation appealed was also Chapter 17-S.M.(1) lack of required
electrical outlet. 219, diningroom lacks second double convenience outlet.
Inspector Hoard referred the Board members to the drawing provided and stated
that this room did contain but one convenience outlet and two were required
by the Housing Code. Ms. Dhillon stated that she did not feel a second
outlet was necessary because the room was so small and the present tenants
had chosen to use the area as a diningroom, in the past this area has been a
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HOUSING APPEALS BOARD
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 6
passageway from the kitchen. Inspector Hoard at that time stated that the
next violation being appealed also concerned the diningroom and involved
Chapter 17-5.N.(3) lack of required minimum room size. The diningroom has
48.3 square feet, lacking the minimum 70 square foot minimum requirement. Ms.
Dhillon stated that she did not stipulate to the tenants how this area was to
be used. Chairperson Krause suggested that the owner write a letter to the
tenant stating that this room could only be used for storage and a copy of
the letter, which was to be sent certified, be sent to the Housing Inspec-
tor to be included in the property file. Haendel made a motion to uphold
both Chapter 17-S.M.(1) lack of required electrical outlet and Chapter
17-5.N.(3) lack of required minimum room size. Trevor seconded the motion.
The motion carried.
The next violation appealed was Chapter 17-6.A. lack of required access.
219-1/2, kitchen and bathroom doors lack a keyed locking device. Inspector
Hoard stated that the kitchen for the second floor was located on the first
floor and that it was necessary for the tenants to pass through the first
floor dwelling unit in order to go into their kitchen and continue up the
stairway to the second floor. Ms. Ohillon stated that there was an entrance
for the first floor dwelling unit at the west side exterior and that it was
not necessary for the first floor dwelling unit tenants to use the east entry
door to gain access to their dwelling unit. Inspector Hoard further stated
that the bathroom on the second floor lacks a keyed locking device and that
again the first floor dwelling unit tenants did have access to the bathroom
because there was no lock on the door. Haendel made a motion to uphold
Chapter 17-6.A. lack of required access. Trevor seconded the motion. The
motion carried.
The next violation appealed was Chapter 17-7.I, electrical system not
maintained in good and safe working condition. Basement, improper splicing
exposed terminals and bus bar on open fusebox. Inspector Hoard, through the
use of a photograph, showed the Board members the violation. She stated that
because there was no cover on the fusebox there was a very dangerous electri-
cal situation present. Ms. Dhillon told the Board that there had been a
previous inspection done and this had not been cited as a violation at that
time. Trevor made a motion to uphold Chapter 17-7.I. Haendel seconded the
motion. The motion carried.
The next violation appealed was also Chapter 17-7.I. electrical system not
maintained in good and safe working condition. Overhead wires to garage are
located too close to ground. Inspector Hoard stated that there were overhead
wires from the garage that went to the second floor of the house which were
within reach of herself and this was not approved wiring. Ms. Ohillon stated
that there was a platform around the house and that there had not been any
problems encountered by the tenants by the overhead wiring. Haendel made a
nation to uphold Chapter 17-7.I. electrical system not maintained in good and
safe working condition. Trevor seconded the motion. The motion carried.
The last violation appealed was Chapter 17-7.I. electrical system not
maintained in good and safe working condition. 219-1/2, kitchen vent fan not
permanently wired. Inspector Hoard stated that in the kitchen there was a
vent fan that was wired with regular extension cord wiring and was not*in the
approved hard wiring either in conduit or behind the wall. Ms. Ohillon
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HOUSING APPEALS BOARL^
SEPTEMBER 18, 1984
PAGE 7
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stated that the vent fan had been disconnected and was not now being used.
Inspector Hoard stated that ordinarily if a window is present in a kitchen a
vent fan is not required, but because the vent fan was present and it was not
at the change of occupancy, it was necessary for it to be functional and to
be properly wired. Trevor made a motion to uphold Chapter 17-7.I. electrical
system not maintained in good and safe working condition. Haendel seconded
the motion. The motion carried.
Krause adjourned the meeting.
Minutes prepared by Judy Hoard
for Chairperson Fred Krause.
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 1984 - 4:00 P.M.
ADMINISTRATIVE CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Cavitt, Drum, Grimes, Gritsch, Willis, Zastrow,, Pegnetter
(left at 5:10), Lyman (left at 5:15)
STAFF PRESENT: Eggers, Tiffany, Jehle, Craig
OTHERS PRESENT: Gladys Benz; Pat Forsythe, Library Foundation Coordinator;
Ann Johnson, Practicum Student; Steve Gerard, FRIENDS Board
Liaison; U of I Public Library class students
President Cavitt called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. Minutes of the
August 23, 1984 regular Board meeting were approved. Zastrow/Drum. Dis-
bursements for September 1 and September 15, 1984 were approved.
Zastrow/Gritsch.
The Director reported on the following:
1. The annual report published in the Press -Citizen on September 10 has
received a lot of positive reaction from the library community, including
national library publications. Local reaction was positive but sparse.
Perhaps the format caused a lot of people to not notice it in the paper.
2. The pie charts on FY84 library receipts and expenditures that had to be
left out of the published report because of space limitations dramatic-
ally demonstrated the value of gifts to the library's operation. If even
a minimum value is assigned to the non -monetary contributions and added
in, contributions and volunteer time account for nearly 12% of total
"expenditures."
3. A newsletter for City employees is now being published by the City's
Human Relations staff. Two issues have been distributed. They were
informative and useful for fob related matters and for better understand-
ing of employee benefits. As part of its wellness and health maintenance
program, the City is providing each employee with $25 to spend on
health-related activities: diet counseling, aerobics, stop -smoking
clinics, swimming pass, health assessment programs, physicals, and so
forth.
4. The library received an award for its "Microcomputers in Libraries" as
Best Show on Channel 20 at the annual Hawkeye Cablevision awards ceremo-
nies last week.
5. The new Iowa City Public Library Foundation newsletter is being published
quarterly and will attempt to keep donors informed about.library issues.
President Cavitt reported that over 150 people attended the Foundation's
reception honoring its donors held on September 9. Board members Zastrow and
Grimes will be attending the Iowa Library Association's annual meeting and
the pre -conference workshop on fund raising, October 17-19. Some Foundation
Board members are also going. Cavitt and the Director will meet with
/q�S
Library Board of Trus,,es
September 27, 1984
Page 2
University of Iowa Vice President Richard Remington on Monday, October 1, to
explore methods of reducing University of Iowa curricular demands on the
library.
Nancy Willis reported for the' Foundation. The Foundation Board will begin
meeting quarterly instead of monthly. The next meeting will be November 7.
At their last meeting they discussed the Library Board's request to consider
an annual meeting of the two groups. The Foundation recommended an annual
dinner meeting in January with each group submitting items for the agenda.
Willis moved that this recommendation be accepted. Seconded by Grimes.
Discussion followed on whether the FRIENDS should, also be included and
whether this was the best time of year for such a meeting. It was decided to
amend the motion to include the FRIENDS. Adopted as amended. Unanimous.
Steve Gerard, representing the FRIENDS Board, agreed to take the recommenda-
tion regarding the annual meeting to the next FRIENDS board meeting. He then
described plans for their annual fall book sale on Friday, Saturday and
Sunday, October 26-28. The Friday evening sale will be for FRIENDS members
only. Engagement calendars published by the Library of Congress will be sold
this fall by the FRIENDS. The calendars incorporate over 70 examples of
photographs, paintings, illustrations, posters, lithographs, manuscripts and
other artifacts in the Library of Congress collection. There will be a
special price for FRIENDS members. The group is continuing to review their
goals for the current year, concentrating on membership growth and improve-
ment to the library's garage as a permanent site for future book sales. They
are considering hiring a part-time book sorter and sale manager.
As the first item of unfinished business; the board reviewed the material
prepared by Assistant Director Connie Tiffany regarding the proposal that the
library take over management of the cable TV access function. Eggers said
that even though the actual decision may be several months away, she hoped
the Board could reach a decision on whether in principle they were interested
in the proposal. This would allow Tiffany to continue to discuss the
library's potential role with other interested groups.
The main Board concern was the possible negative effect on the staff to take
on this additional function in view of their already extremely heavy work-
load.. Tiffany felt that the library would have to deal with transition and
change no matter who took over access and that in some ways handling one's
own staff could be easier than working out a relationship with a newly -formed
non-profit. organization.
Other questions: what would be the library's relationship with Heritage; how
certain is the funding and what would be the source of additional funding;
what was the City Manager's opinion regarding the library as access, manager;
could the library get out of the arrangement if it chose to later on?
It was the general consensus that this was a legitimate and logical function
for the library to take on, that the Board supported the idea in principle,
that the staff could continue to explore and consider the idea, but that the
Board would make their final decision based on the details and conditions of
the final proposal.
/yIFs-
Library Board of Trus. -es.
September 27, 1984
Page 3
Tiffany then reviewed with the Board the proposed amendments to the lease
with Heritage for their space in the library. Although the sale of the
franchise is now final, there is currently no agreement between the library
and Heritage. The lease would govern the relationship between the two
parties as long as Heritage is directly' responsible for operating the cable
access center in the library. The amendments would alter slightly the former
agreement that existed between American Telecommunications Corporation (ATC)
and the library. It would change the term of the lease from 'ten years' to
an expiration date of March 20, 1989, tighten up the requirement that the
access center be open a minimum of 40 hours a week, clarify the responsibil-
ity for air conditioning and payment of utilities and add to the lease an
informal agreement developed jointly by ATC and the library concerning each
agency's responsibilities for access activities.
The one issue which the City legal staff did not address in the amendments
was the request that Heritage continue to maintain the equipment for the
Cable Catalog, the sub -system that allows access to the library's on-line
catalog from places on the institutional loop of the cable system. The Board
asked that this be included in the lease before it is sent to Heritage.
Gritsch moved and Drum seconded the motion that the President be authorized
to sign the lease as finally agreed on by both parties. Unanimous.
The language in Article IX, Section 1, of the new bylaws needs revision to
clarify the Board's intent concerning appointments to the Foundation Board.
The last sentence will be changed to read "appointments shall be made each
June for two (2) two-year terms beginning on July 1." Because bylaw changes
now must be submitted in writing at least ten days prior to their adoption,
formal action on the change will be taken at the October meeting.
Because of the length of the agenda, discussion on the proposed mural for the
Children's Roan was postponed.
Eggers provided some background on the needed upgrade to the library's
computer system. The system was purchased in January, 1979, before any
present members were on the Library Board. At that time the cost and needs
studyprepared by the staff predicted that after seven years the system would
cost the library $229,000 less than continuing with the manual circulation,
order and catalog systems. Now with less than two years of that seven year
period remaining, the net gain is estimated to be closer to $185,000 plus all
the advantages that are harder to put a price on: the value of the audio-
visual department to the community, the library materials not lost because of
better recordkeeping, the public's satisfaction with better information about
the content and status of the collection, improved collection development,
among many other benefits.
Although the library now faces a major expenditure if it wants to improve the
system and keep up with the technology required to continue to provide this
community with the best methods of information retrieval, the old system has
more than paid for itself and the capabilities of the new system were not
possible in 1979.
/9Vs
Library Board of Tru_ as
September 27, 1984
Page 4
With the next system, the database wduld be converted to the now standard
MARC format. This plus more powerful hardware and software would not only
improve retrieval techniques and make keyboard access easier, it would also
improve response time, provideback-up for equipment failure, and allow the
addition of the bibliographic records of neighboring public libraries or
school libraries if they chose to join in.
Without the upgrade the current system is at a dead end, unable to expand and
utilize new techniques and tied to equipment and software that will eventu-
ally become nonstandard.
Current estimates have put the price tag at over $250,000, but there are
several contract issues and supplemental funding options yet to explore. The
system is not yet operational at other libraries and the City is unsure on
the best way to fund equipment replacements of this magnitude. Based on all
these reasons, it was the recommendation of the staff that any request for
funding be postponed until FY87.
The Board reviewed and discussed the proposal, including additional informa-
tion provided in the agenda packet. There was general consensus that the
library must proceed in this direction. They agreed to wait until FY87 to
formally request funds, but felt strongly that the Capital Improvements
Program or other financing methods were preferred to putting it all in one or
two years of the library's operating budget. They decided to spend the next
year refining the proposal and working with library and City staff and the
City Council on finding the best way to fund it.
The draft of the Division Program Statement and the Expanded Service Levels
(ESL) for the FY86 budget were reviewed. The staff had drafted these based
on the general discussion of the five year goals and the direction given the
staff at the August meeting.
The general language of the Division Statement was approved as was the
formula statement on the library's material budget. The majority of the
discussion centered on the content and priority for the ESL's. Eggers
explained that FY86 was the first year since FY82 that the library's coordi-
nators had been allowed to submit requests for permanent staff. They had
requested a total of three and one-quarter positions but the final staff rec-
ommendations have been reduced to one and three-quarter positions. To
support this request the Board reviewed the data on the 40% increase to rate
of acquisitions since 1980, the large increase in number of temporary and
volunteer personnel to be selected, trained, evaluated and scheduled; the
large increase in publications required to explain library services and
policies; and the staff impact of providing special services to the disabled
and others who cannot take advantage of the self-service mode of many basic
library services. It was decided that this should be the library's first
priority request. In relation to the term "expanded service level," the
Board thought it should be clear that this request would provide no new
services but would enable the library to continue to utilize gifts, contribu-
tions and volunteers and to continue to depend on temporary employees to
provide nearly one-third of the library's regular work force.
191-6_
Library Board of Tru. .es
September 27, 1984
Page 5
After discussion, it was agreed that the second ESL should be the request for
funds to begin a microcomputer software collection and the third ESL would be
an additional $5,000 for the library's material budget needed to make up the
difference between what the current service level can provide if the 4.2%
inflation factor is added and the estimated funding from gift funds if the
library is to follow its five year plan to reduce the acquisition/circulation
ratio to 30 by FY89. There was a split vote on which of these two should be
a higher priority but all agreed that both were dependent on the funding of
ESL number one first.
The Board also approved submitting a fourth ESL for additional funds from the
franchise fee. This request is dependent on how the City decides it wants to
spend income from the fee and will be considered independently of other
library requests.
The Library Board meetings for November and December will be on the third
Thursday, November 15 and December 20.
Meeting was adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
an e e n o y�ggers, car s
MINUTES
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 17, 1984
Charter Review Commission: September 17, 1984, at 7:30 p.m. in the Confer-
ence Room at the Civic Center. Chairperson Balmer presiding.
Commission Present: Goodwin, Ringgenberg, Balmer, Matsumoto, Mintzer,
Davidsen (:40). Absent: Roberts, Baldus, Welt.
Staff Present: Helling, Karr, Boyle, Smith.
Ta e-r_ ems: -Reel 5-84, Side 2, 253-End; Reel 6-84, Side 1, all, Side 2,
Chairperson Balmer called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. and introduced
Iowa City Councilmember Larry Baker. Minutes of the July 9, 1984, meeting
were approved as read.
Balmer introduced Dick Boyle, the Assistant City Attorney. Boyle noted that
he has reviewed the charter and made specific comments on campaign financing
and plebiscites on zoning matters in his September 13th memo. Boyle ex-
plained that no State law provisions exist stating deadlines for filing
election petitions before primary elections. The deadlines for filing
election petitions for Statewide and legislative offices are 60 days and 55
days respectively. Boyle advised that it isn't appropriate to use "business
days" in a legislative document and would be better to extend the number of
days. Karr stated that time limits can be recommended but noted the City
Council may direct staff to accept petitions within shorter time frames.
Karr's memo recommended adding 10-15 days. Balmer requested proposed changes
be inserted into the charter for review by the Commission at the next
meeting. In response to Balmer, Karr explained that a draft of proposed
administrative changes to be acted upon by the City Council has been pre-
pared. The Charter Review Commission needs to recommend what changes should
be acted upon by the City Council and what changes should be recommended by
the Charter Review Commission to go before the voters.
Balmer said that Article 6, Council Districts, and initiative and referendum
,questions should be further discussed by the Charter Review Commission. Boyle
recommended minor changes in the wording in charter section 6.01 and 6.04,
changing "campaign expenditures" to "campaign contributions." In response to
Davidsen, Boyle said that section.7.01.8(1)(k) need not be changed.
Karr reported that more information for initiative and referendum petition
signature validation can be obtained from the county for a basic set
up/programming fee. Commission members discussed requiring name, address,
and a birthdate on the petition. Mintzer noted that requiring a social
security number would be an invasion of privacy. Boyle said that if name,
address, and birthdate is used, all three may be required to be correct to
have a valid signature. Karr suggested requiring name and address with
birthdate being optional. Boyle stated that nominating petitions only
require names and address. Karr noted that working with more information
would be time consuming for staff. Matsumoto suggested requiring signature,
address, and date and require any other information by way of Council enacted
ordinance. This would authorize the City Council to try different require-
ments to make the procedure easier. Boyle said that he would draft language
I9W
CHARTER REVIEW COMMIS ON
SEPTEMBER 17, 1984
PAGE 2
for the charter authorizing the Council to require information for verifica-
tion purposes. Ringgenberg stated that petitions need to be filled out
legibly.
Commission members will discuss council districts at the next Charter Review
Commission meeting.
Mintzer stated that the City lacks ordinances in accordance with Section 6 of
the charter. Mintzer reviewed his July 13th memo and Jansen's May 23rd memo
regarding Article 6. Mintzer stated there is a question as to how much
candidates should disclose and recommended adding language to 6.02 requiring
full campaign contribution disclosure, including in-kind gifts. Commission
members discussed disclosure of dollar minimums. In response to Mintzer,
Balmer said the current Section 6.02. is reasonable as written. In response
to Councilman Baker, Boyle stated that the City Code Chapter 10 $10 or more
disclosure requirement has been repealed and the State Code requires re-
porting contributions of $25 or more. The charter could be more restrictive
than the State law. The City could reinstitute the $10 requirement. Karr
noted questions about the value of garage sale items. Davidsen encouraged the
Commission to review charter Section 6 and discuss it at the next meeting.
Mintzer stated a number six should be added to page three of this July 13th
memo, noting the $10 versus $25 discrepancy. Also, Mintzer pointed out that
the different definitions of the term "political committee" (Mintzer's July
13th memo, page 3, number 1) includes differing dollar amounts i.e. State
Code uses $250 versus old City Code using $100. Boyle referred Mintzer to
Chapter 56.6, 3.B.2 of the State Code. Balmer said that the charter doesn't
and shouldn't state specific dollar amounts for disclosure. Balmer said the
City Council had been concerned about duplicative reporting when Chapter 10
was repealed. Mintzer stated that duplicity can be resolved as recommended
in his July 13th memo.
In response to Mintzer, Boyle stated that any violations of the City Code is
a misdemeanor leading to penalties of $100 or 30 days in jail. He also
stated that he is unsure if there is anything in the State law that calls for
the removal of a Councilmember for violation of campaign contribution
disclosure. Balmer noted that he does not know of problems locally with
campaign contribution disclosure and adequate disclosure provisions exist.
Mintzer recommended reviewing the original Chapter 10-22, the new ordinance,
Chapter 56 of the State Code, and the charter. Davidsen inquired about the
clause "consistent with State Code" in Charter Section 6.04. Ringgenberg
said the clause may not be needed. Matsumoto said -the Commission should
decide upon 'a campaign contribution disclosure policy before sanctions are
decided upon. Mintzer recommended including penalties for violations of
campaign contribution disclosure in the charter. Matsumoto said that the
Commission could consider putting some sanctions in the charter and leaving
other sanctions up to the City Council. Goodwin noted a Dail Iowan article
about the Mintzer memo and requested better coordinate -press
Copies of the article will be distributed to members prior to the next
meeting.
Mintzer requested demographic information (age, income, and race) about
voting districts. Matsumoto said the Commission should be concerned with the
effects of districting on minorities.
IM
CHARTER
VIEW
SEPTEMBERE17, 1984MIS_.JN
PAGE 3
public hearings. Balmer recommended
Commission members discussed scheduling p ester
announcing the dates of public hearings on the back of water bills enberg
will check on deadlines distributing aonouncementsfin the Unior water versity dormitory mill announce ailboxese Ringgg
suggested holding two types of, Commissionoagreedletonfholdlt a croundtable
a formal public hearing.vember tively-
or' ani
discussions and public
emberhwillndraft aoletter to bedsent�to98onmunity�ie September
Davidsen and Ringg 9
and Balmerrs and encouragediCaommissionimembe mted embers taerevew the
prepared to delete or add to the list at the
list of organizations and be
next meeting. The draft letter will also be reviewed each heletter.
meeting*
Mintzer requested a copy of the charter accomp y will contact cable TY
recommended advertising in the local media. Helling
about broadcasting the formal public hearing on the 26th.
Balmer announced that the next CRC meeting is scheduled for October 1, 1984.
He encouraged all CRC Commission members to attend the meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 9:15 P•m•
/0
yVo
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMNICATIONS COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 17, 1984
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
PRESENT: Terry, Madsen, Ehninger, Johnson, Sigrin
EXCUSED: None
ABSENT: None '
OTHERS PRESENT: Blough of Heritage Cablevision; Klingler and Beeson of U
of I Channel -28; Tiffany of Iowa City Public Library;
Stewart (recording secretary)
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
MATTERS PENDING COUNCIL -COMMISSION DISPOSITION:
Approval of Hawkeye/Heritage rate increase request as per negotiated
contract, Request for Proposal (RFP) for non-profit organization for
access.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
George Klingler of the University of Iowa's Department of Communications
Studies reported having difficulty in reaching Blough or other responsible
parties to alert then to technical problems with Channel 28 over Labor Day
and the following weekend. Blough was finally reached and the problem,
stemming from Kirkwood's video transmission, was corrected. Suggestions
made by Klinger and Commissioners to speed response time on the part of
the cable company are already part of the policy, but a breakdown in
communications occurred nonetheless. Klingler also expressed dissatisfac-
tion with local press coverage of the local cable listings. Nick John-
son's Subcommittee on Public Awareness suggested hiring or acquiring a
Program Guide Coordinator to assemble all the listings from the access
channels and do outreach and .public relations work needed to establish a
local guide and find a publishing vehicle for it. Suggestions were also
made for Hawkeye/Heritage to publish a local guide and for the NPO, once
it is established, to take over these duties. The subcommittee will
continue its work and Shaffer and Terry will also try to come up with a
recommendation as to the coordinator.
The BTC passed a motion to approve the Program Division Statement and send
it on to Council. Community Programming Guidelines will be returned to
Edye Calderon to be handled in a more procedural manner. More outreach
needs to be done to generate interest in workshops. A motion failed to
approve the negotiated contract with a rate increase of 321 to 401 with
the stipulation that City Council hold a public hearing on the rate
increase. After further discussion, it was agreed that a special meeting
would be held to reexamine this question, separating the -two issues of the
rate increase request and the public hearing. The negotiated agreement is
a package deal with one condition tied to another. The rate increase
/91f7
OF
PRECEDING
DOCUMENT
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMNICATIONS COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 17, 1984
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
PRESENT: Terry, Madsen, Ehninger, Johnson, Sigrin
EXCUSED: None
ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Blough of Heritage Cablevision; Klingler and Beeson of U
of I Channel.28; Tiffany of Iowa City Public Library;
Stewart (recording secretary)
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
MATTERS PENDING COUNCIL -COMMISSION DISPOSITION:
Approval of Hawkeye/Heritage rate increase request as per negotiated
contract, Request for Proposal (RFP) for non-profit organization for
access.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
George Klingler of the University of Iowa's Department of Communications
Studies reported having difficulty in reaching Blough or other responsible
parties to alert them to technical problems with Channel 28 over Labor Day
and the following weekend. Blough was finally reached and the problem,
stemming from Kirkwood's video transmission, was corrected. Suggestions
made by Klinger and Commissioners to speed response time on the part of
the cable company are already part of the policy, but a breakdown in
communications occurred nonetheless. Klingler also expressed dissatisfac-
tion with local press coverage of the local cable listings. Nick John-
son's Subcommittee on Public Awareness suggested hiring or acquiring a
Program Guide Coordinator to assemble all the listings from the access
channels and do outreach and .public relations work needed to establish a
local guide and find a publishing vehicle for it. Suggestions were also
made for Hawkeye/Heritage to publish a local guide and for the NPO, once
it is established, to take over these duties. The subcommittee will
continue its work and Shaffer and Terry will also try to come up with a
recommendation as to the coordinator.
The BTC passed a motion to approve the Program Division Statement and send
it on to Council. Community Programming Guidelines will be returned to
Edye Calderon to be handled in a more procedural manner. More outreach
needs to be done to generate interest in workshops. A motion failed to
approve the npgotiated contract with a rate increase of 321 to 401 with
the stipulation that City Council hold a public hearing on the rate
increase. After further discussion, it was agreed that a special meeting
would be held to reexamine this question, separating the -two issues of the
rate increase request and the public hearing. The negotiated agreement is
a package deal with one condition tied to another. The rate increase
/9f7
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 2
request is tied to the 5% franchise fee waiver, which must be approved by
the FCC. If the waiver is not granted, the rate increase will not go into
effect. The $125,000 for the NPO includes a CPI escalator clause. The
NPO proposal must also be approved by the FCC. Some of the extra 2% of
the franchise fee would be spent for additional help for the access effort
while some of it is earmarked for City regulatory items, performance tests
and other consultancy needs. So far, the company has not noted any
adverse response to the rate increase request. Access Iowa City had
agreed, to support the rate increase request since it is tied to the
funding for access. Sigrin said access in Iowa City can be even better
than it is. He shared copies of the access programming guide from the
Atlanta, Georgia Access Center. The special meeting will be Friday,
September 21 at 8:00 AM in Council Chambers.
The BTS office resolved six complaints including the one from Channel 28
during the past month. There will be one more negotiating session between
the National League of Cities and the National Cable Television Associa-
tion. The NCTA wants to cut back on the capacity of cities to regulate
cable tv rates from four years to two years. Shaffer will be spending the
next several weeks preparing the report to the FCC for the franchise fee
proposals with documentation on how the money will be spent. Shaffer will
also begin work on the Request for Proposal (RFP). The BTS is putting
together a set of goals and performance indicators for Channel 26. City
Council will spend some available federal funds for a voice synthesizer to
be used with character generated messages on Channel 29, to make the
programming more accessible to the handicapped. There is also interest in
making City Council meetings closed captioned for the hearing impaired.
Access Iowa City reports the election of Susan DePrenger as co-director,
filling the vacancy left by Anita Stech. AIC will meet next on October 3,
at 7:00 PM in the ICPL. The conference committee has voted not to hold
the 1985 Spring Regional Conference of the National Federation of Local
Cable Programmers and try to host the 1986 Spring meeting instead.
The Nashville Network has joined the local cable program lineup on Channel
25. Financial News Network will be added to Channel 8 in place of the
Associated Press stock information. The new financial services includes
the ASE as well as NYSE. Sports Time is putting together a basic regional
package to be available to cable operators October 1. Spanish Interna-
tional Network is moving to Channel 17. The local cable company expects
to go on line with Heritage in November. In the meantime, it is correct
to refer to the company as Heritage instead of Hawkeye. Heritage is
currently running its Gold Star promotion and will be offering two free
days of HBO and two free days of Cinemax in October to try to draw new
subscribers to the pay services.
Over 6500 program guides are distributed for Channel 20 each month. A
full page ad in the Press -Citizen calling attention to the cable catalog
and Channel 20 programming was paid for by Friends of the Library. An
increase in activity on the cable catalog has been noted by the library.
The library has drafted its FY86 Expanded Service Level request and
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 3
includes an item for approximately 20 hours per week of part-time help in
the AV lab, an additional circulating porta-pak and other items. Current
demand for the library's circulating porta-pak requires a two month wait.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER:
The meeting came to order at 8:06 AM.
MINUTES:
Motion made and seconded to approve the minutes of July. Ehninger asked
for a correction at page 3, paragraph 1. Shaffer will see to it the
correction is made. Terry expressed appreciation to Winger for her work
on behalf of the other Commissioners in proofreading the working drafts of
minutes. Minutes approved unanimously. Ehninger/Madsen
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
The Nashville Network joined the Iowa City cable system on Friday,
September 14 on Channel 25.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
George Klingler of the University of Iowa's Department of Cortmnication
Studies asked whether the BTC might give some thought to improving the
method by which Hawkeye/Heritage can be contacted by channel programmers
when there are difficulties with any of the channels. The previous
weekend and Labor Day weekend, technical interference developed on Channel
28 to the point where no signal was visible at all. It was suggested this
was a result of Kirkwood shutting off their transmision for the weekend,
leaving Channel 27 with only snow on it. This snowy signal bled over into
Channel 28. Once Bill Slough was alerted to the problem with the channel,
he reacted quickly to resolve it, Klinger said, but it was- felt by those
at Channel 28 that too much time elapsed before Blough could be reached.
Nick Johnson expressed agreement that the company needs to develop a
policy and procedure for dealing not only with the type of problem
described by Klingler, but also with service with
experienced by
any subscriber. Terry requested that Blough consider using a telephone
answering service which would have access to Blough's personal number.
Blough noted this practice is already in effect but could not answer why
the method broke down at that time. Shaffer suggested trying the use of
a "key code", an individual who identifies her or himself as a "program
operator" would immediately be patched through to the on-call technician
or Blough himself. Again, Blough said something of this nature is already
in place. Johnson noted this problem was really twofold: first, the
technical difficulty itself and, secondly, the communication breakdown in
relaying the information to the proper individuals. Blough stated he had
identified the technical problem and determined its solution at once.
Kirkwood's signal is routed through Heritage's switcher, so when Kirkwood
stops transmitting, their signal is shut down.
I9V7
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 4
Klingler also expressed dissatisfaction with the Press -Citizen in its
coverage of local cable listings. Klingler recounted that he had been
told by the newspaper that to include such listings interfered with its
"journalistic integrity". Ehninger noted the Press -Citizen does not carry
listings for any radio stations in the community either, on the basis that
those stations are competitors of the paper. Johnson stated that he hoped
that through the office of a "coordinator" for access public relations,
the commission and access. channels could work with the Press -Citizen to
develop a mutually viable relationship. This could alleviate the problem
of listing information being delivered to the paper by several sources,
too late to publish, etc. The suggestion was also made that using other
print media such as the Daily Iowan and the Interstate Shopper might jog
the Press -Citizen into action. Terry said that this discussion would serve
to cover a subcommittee report by Nick Johnson on media coverage for local
cable listings, and urged further study and discussion of establishing a
coordinator to handle this recurring problem. Tiffany noted that the
library sends its information on programming to Hawkeye for referral to
the Press -Citizen.
PROGRAM DIVISION STATEMENT:
Terry noted this document was somewhat expanded from previous versions and
suggested that if there were no objections to its statements, he would
like to have a motion passed to approve it and send it on to City admini-
stration. Madsen asked whether funds under this auspice were placed in the
general fund or in a special account. Shaffer stated the funds do go into
the general fund but were specifically earmarked and could not be spent by
any other department or credited to any other account number. Madsen
noted she would prefer to see these funds referred to specifically as the
cable TV franchise fee fund. Madsen had further questions regarding
budget deadlines and the 5% franchise fee. Shaffer explained how that is
currently being handled by regular budgeting procedures but with an eye
open for contingency plans should the 5% franchise fee request be granted
by the FCC.
Further discussion ensued relating to Johnson's subcommittee report on
public awareness. Johnson suggested Heritage prepare its own program
guide for insertion into the monthly subscriber billing envelopes. An
alternative suggestion was that development of the NPO may well provide
the proper form for producing a regular program guide. Klingler noted
that Channel 28 would be willing to spend their fair share of the cost of
producing a guide or paying the Press Citizen to print the listings. Terry
asked that discussion be discontinued for now and the subcommittee on
public awareness continue. its research and efforts. Sigrin asked that the
subcommittee be directed to contact a group of representatives from the
Access Channels who would determine the best method of resolving this
question. Johnson reiterated that he sees a clear need for the program
guide coordinator to be named as soon as possible and have that person
carry forth the work begun by this subcommittee. Shaffer and Terry will
discuss this and try to come up with a recommendation before the next BTC
meeting.
1/X-7
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 5
Returning to discussion of the program division statement, Terry called
for either a motion to approve or a motion to table. Madsen moved and
Ehninger seconded the Program Division Statement be approved. All
commissioners voted aye. The motion carried. Madsen/Ehninger.
PUBLIC AWARENESS SUBCOMMITTEE:
Considered under
previous agenda items.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMING GUIDELINES:
Terry asked that these be returned to Edye Calderon so that proposed
changes could be handled in a more procedural manner. Terry stated that
he basically had no problem with any of the proposed changes except those
concerning workshops. Terry and Shaffer stated that Outreach called for
in the Franchise agreement had not been kept up, causing a decrease in the
demand for workshops. Johnson suggested setting up a workshop program
with the high schools, and Klingler suggested even junior high students
might benefit from such an opportunity. Blough will refer the Commis-
sioner's comments to Calderon.
RATE INCREASE REQUEST:
Terry stated that the majority of the City Council had had no problem with
the negotiated agreement reached by the City and Heritage. The main
problem, Terry said, was that some council members felt there should be a
public hearing on the rate increase request which was tied into the 5%
franchise fee proposal and represented a trade off. Terry said that the
Council has asked for a response on this from. the BTC. Madsen indicated
her preference to turn the matter back over to City Council and for them
to hold the hearing, which Terry stated was an option. Ehninger stated
her opposition to any rate increase and Johnson concurred with Ehninger.
Shaffer pointed out that such an increase could not be unilaterally
passed, but required a public hearing, whether that hearing is held by the
BTC or City Council. Shaffer outlined the options before the BTC: 1.)
That the BTC wants no rate increase; 2.) That the BTC approves the rate
increase and if so, in what amount; 3.) That the BTC hold a public
hearing on a rate increase; 4.) That the BTC not hold a public hearing
and recommend that the City Council hold the hearing. Terry also noted
that even if the BTC holds a hearing, the Council -may hold one as well.
Terry introduced a motion calling for the BTC to approve the negotiated
agreement with a rate increase of 32 cents to 40 cents with the stipula-
tion that Council hold the public hearing rather than the Commission.
Madsen seconded. Ehninger said that she would vote no on the first part
of the motion and yes on the second part. Sigrin stated his opposition to
allowing the matter to be turned back over to the City Council. Sigrin
said he thinks a public hearing should be held by the BTC instead, since
the Commission is probably more enlightened and knowledgeable as to the
broader issues involved, specifically the future of the non-profit
organization. The motion was read. Terry and Madsen voted aye, Sigrin,
/9g/
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 6
Ehninger, and Johnson voted nay.. The motion failed. After further
discussion, Terry suggested the possibility of holding a special meeting
to consider this question further. Shaffer said several issues are
involved and that proposals for both the non-profit organization and. the
five percent franchise fee must be submitted to the FCC, which could deny
either or both of the requests. Sigrin said that it was his understanding
that the Council had given the Commission the authority to hold a hearing
or to make a recommendation that Council hold the hearing. Terry agreed
but said he felt that was premature and that the Commission should first
determine whether they were willing to approve a rate increase before
making a decision to hold a hearing. The Secretary asked for a clarifica-
tion for the minutes had called for approval of the negotiated contract,
including a rate increase request of 32 - 40 cents. Terry said that that
was correct. The secretary pointed out that the Commission had, in that
case, voted not to approve the negotiated contract. Terry said that the
negotiated contract was a package deal and that one condition was tied to
another and so on. Shaffer explained that the $125,000.00 dollar amount
and its CPI (Consumer Price Index) escalator clause were a separate
condition from the 5% franchise fee. There is no guarantee of receiving
either amount unless the FCC approves one of the uses intended for the
extra 2% franchise fee money (over the current 3 per cent). The 2% was
to provide additional funding for the access effort, should such addi-
tional help be needed by the NPO, since there is no other option available
to the organization for funding.
Ehninger reiterated her opposition to any increase. Madsen indicated she
preferred not to deal with the matter further. Sigrin suggested delaying
further discussion until next month or holding a special meeting sooner.
Sigrin also repeated his belief that the BTC should take the responsibil-
ity of holding its own hearing on the rate increase request. Blough said
the company had not seen any adverse reaction on the part of subscribers
to the proposed increase, but planned nevertheless to add some new
services so people could feel they were receiving something more for there
money. Cinda Stewart stated that Access Iowa City had agreed to support
the request for the rate increase because of its tie-in with the NPO and
additional money for Access. Madseh noted that the rate increase would
not be granted if FCC turned down the 5% franchise fee proposal. Shaffer
said that if the franchise fee is granted, the money would be used, in ad-
dition, for Access, for City regulatory items such as legal assistance in
dealing with future rate increase requests, performance tests, and other
consultancy areas.
Sigrin said that he felt that we are losing sight of what Access can be
in Iowa City and noted his recent visit to the Atlanta Georgia Access
Center. Sigrin shared with the Commission copies of the Atlanta Access
Program Guide. Sigrin said although he does not approve of an increase
which does not involve public input, he understands that increases are
inevitable, and would rather see a 40 cent increase now which is earmarked
for Access, than turn it down and see the company come back in a year or
less for -an even higher increase that won't include Access.
/9f7
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 7
Terry called for a motion to reconsider. Madsen pointed to the absence of
Johnson who had to leave to teach a class, and suggested he had left
thinking the vote was .final. Terry then called for agreement on setting a
special meeting. After further discussion it was agreed a one hour
meeting would be set for Friday, September 21, 1984 at 8:00 A.M. in
Council Chambers.
BTS REPORT:
Shaffer's office received five complaints this month plus the. one from
George Klingler. All complaints have been resolved. NR 4103 will go
thru one more negotiating session with the National League of Cities and
the National Cable Television Association.' The NCTA wants to cut the rate
regulation capability of cities from 4 years to 2 years. Shaffer said he
expects to spend the next 2 to 3 weeks on a 25-30 page report to the FCC
for the franchise fee proposal with full documentation on how the money
will be spent, and what will be done with regulatory and Access programs
in Iowa City. Shaffer will also be starting work on the beginnings of the
RFP, with help from Anita Stech. Shaffer is putting together a set of
goals and performance indicators for Channel 26. City Council voted to
spend some available federal funds to make programming more accessible to
the handicapped. Shaffer said he had proposed use of a voice synthesizer
for character generated messages. Council approved use of this advice for
Channel 29. Shaffer will begin sending to Commissioners a list of
programming on Channel 29. Madsen asked about the use of closed captions
(sign language) for televised City Council meetings. Shaffer was unsure
whether Terry Kimble, who got the funding approval for the voice syn-
thesizer, had obtained the funding as well for the closed captions.
Commissioners and others present expressed support for this idea.
ACCESS IOWA CITY:
Stewart reported that Susan DePrenger had been elected to fill the vacant
Co -Directors seat left by Anita Stech's departure. The next AIC meeting
is October 3, 1984 at 7 P.M. at the library. The conference committee
voted not to hold the 1985 Spring Conference of the National Federation of
Local Cable Programers (NFLCP), due in part to the transitions now taking
place with the franchise and Access organization within the community. The
groups hope to be in a more clear position to hold the 1986 Spring
Conference instead.
Blough announced the Nashville Network has been added to the Iowa City
Programning line up. Channel 8, which is now the Associated Press Stock
Information and the New York Stock Exchange will be changed to the
Financial News Network which will include American Stock Exchange informa-
tion as well as NYSE. Sports Time, a pay service, is putting together a
basic, regional sports package, to be available to cable operators
approximately October 1. This service will share channel space with FNN.
Current plans for Spanish International Network (SIN) also on Channel 8,
are to move to a full time spot on Channel 17. Terry said he had been
asked by several people to relay to Blough a question as to whether
Minutes
Broadband Telecommunications Commission
September 17, 1984
Page 8
individuals who have more than one t.v. set hooked up to cable could
receive additional program guides with the billing statement. Blough said
the response from ATC and Cable Fax was that including extra guides would
increase postage costs, but extra guides are available at Southgate for
pick up. Bloug said it may be possible after going on line with Heritage,
possibly in November. Problems with channel 5 have been resolved as of
Friday, September 14, 1984. The "T Channels" on the INET were going to be
eliminated which will improve the quality of the video signal on Channel
5. Blough reminded everyone that the Hawkeye Awards Festival is this
Friday, September 21, 1984. Hawkeye has been keeping up with construc-
tion. First Avenue and Rochester is the biggest area of activity right
now for Hawkeye. It is now correct to refer to the cable company as
Heritage instead of Hawkeye. Heritage is currently beginning its Gold
Star promotion to include free showing of HBO and Cinemax during October
for 4 days, to try to attract new pay subscribers. Other technical
changes are also taking place but the use of 2 receiving dishes allows
Heritage to avoid any interruption of service.
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY REPORT:
Tiffany reported the Channel 20 program guide is being distributed to all
members of Friends of the Library as well as many others, and in fact a
total of about 6500 guides are sent out each month. There has been an
increase in use of the cable catalogue. A full page ad in the Press
Citizen regarding the cable catalogue and programming on Channel 20 was
paid for by Friends of the Library. Tiffany stated Commissioners would be
receiving copies of a draft of the library's Fiscal Year 86 Expanded
Service Level request for the franchise fee allotment received by the
library. The most significant item, Tiffany said, was a request for
funding some 20 hours per week for part-time help in the AV lab. The
other big dollar amount is for an additional circulating porta-pak.
Current demand for the library's half inch circulation porta-pak requires
reservation of the equipment 2 months in advance. Also attached to the
budget request is copy of the new AV lab brochure, an annual report on how
the lab has been used for this past year, and a report on Channel 20 for
the last fiscal year.
NEW BUSINESS:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Meeting adjourned at 10:25 a.m. Ehninger/Sigrin.
Respectfully submitted,
Wm. Drew Shaffer
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
/ itf7
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 21, 1984
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS
PRESENT: Terry, Madsen, Ehninger, Johnson, Sigrin
EXCUSED: None
ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: Blough of Heritage Cablevision, Stewart (recording secre-
tary)
STAFF PRESENT: Shaffer, Helling
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
The 8TC recommends to Council to support a rate increase equivalent to the
proposal as per the negotiated contract. The BTC recommends to Council that
the rate increase, if granted, be in the amount of .401. The BTC recommends
to Council
the
on theproposed rate increases should beent of held bysthe Councilyratherion that nublicthan hearthe
BTC in light of the City Council's past participation and preference.
MATTERS PENDING COUNCIL -COMMISSION DISPOSITION:
Approval of Heritage rate increase request as per negotiated contract;
Request For Proposal (RFP) for non-profit organization for access.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION AND FORMAL ACTION TAKEN:
The Commission discussed and passed three motions dealing with the proposed
rate increase request and a public hearing thereon. Commissioners discussed
methods to further better communication and cooperation among ccgable regula-
behalfbodies
thenBTCthe
forwsignificant coa. ntributionsetoetelecomnunicationsainrIowa
City.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER:
Meeting came to order at 8:06 a.m.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Terry said the agenda for today's special meeting would deal with three items
for consideration: (1) Should the BTC approve a rate incnease as called for
in negotiated contracts with Heritage? (2) If approved, in what amount? and
(3) If approved, should the BTC hold a public hearing on the proposed rate
increase?
/ 9f7
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNi IONS COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 21, 1984
PAGE 2
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR INCREASE IN BASIC SERVICE RATES:
Terry opened discussion on this item with a reminder that the proposed rate
increase is tied to the five percent franchise fee waiver. If the rate
increase request is approved, the company will join the City in its petition
to the FCC for the waiver. Terry reminded the Commissioners that the NPO
also has to be approved by the FCC. Terry moved the BTC approve and support
a rate increase request as per the negotiated contract with Heritage. Madsen
asked what effect the BTC's approval or disapproval would have on the City
Council's position. Helling said that the Council had left flexible whether
a rate increase was appropriate to achieve one of the goals that was speci-
fied in the points that were recommended, and that was an increase in the
franchise fee from three to five percent. The only way that the company
would agree to support the City to the FCC for that extra two percent,
Helling said, was if the City would allow the company to raise the basic
subscription rate in an amount that would cover the two percent. Melling
said further, that the Council did not want to make that decision as part of
that agreement but wanted some flexibility. So the agreement is written to
basically say that the company will apply for a rate increase as they would
for any rate increase and that it would be processed in the usual manner by
the City Council and at that time a decision would be made. The agreement
also stipulates, Helling said, that the if the Commission and ultimately the
Council is not willing to entertain the idea of a rate increase at this time,
then the City will drop the whole issue of a five percent franchise fee and
no petition will be made to the FCC.
Terry stated a second must be obtained before any further discussion or the
motion would die for lack of a second. Sigrin seconded. Madsen asked
whether that meant that the Council is under obligation to accept the point
of view of the BTC but that does not tie then to any action. Helling said
that is correct. Johnson asked for a clarification of the chronological
order in which the procedures under discussion would be carried out. Helling
said the understanding would be that the Council's approval of the rate
increase would be contingent upon FCC approval of the five percent franchise
fee. Johnson questioned whether there was precedence for approving a rate
increase based upon a contingency; whether a conditional rate hike was
consistent with the Iowa City cable franchise. Shaffer and Helling said that
the narrow question had not been asked, but that both the City's legal staff
and the Washington law firm hired .as a consultant in this matter were aware
of the City's plan to proceed in this manner. Johnson asked whether a vote
on the first motion presumed a vote on the follow-up motion on whether the
BTC would hold a public hearing. Terry said it did not. Shaffer said the
City Council had decided to hold a public hearing on the rate increase
request.
Terry called for a vote on the motion. Secretary read the motion. Johnson
expressed some confusion over the language of the motion. Following discus-
sion, Terry withdrew his motion with the agreement of the second and substi-
tuted the following motion: That the BTC recommend to City Council to
support a rate increase equivalent to the proposal as per the negotiated
contract. Seconded by Sigrin. Madsen, Terry and Sigrin voted aye. Ehninger
and Johnson voted nay. Motion carried.
M77
MINUTES
BROADBAND TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 21, 1984
PAGE 3
Based upon passage of the previous motion, the next question before the
Commission was what the amount of the rate increase should be. Shaffer
explained that each one percent of the franchise fee represents $25,000.
Thus, the next franchise fee payment would be $75,000. In that case, the
extra two percent would represent $50,000. Based on the present fee struc-
ture, a .40t increase would mean $50,000, or a reimbursement to the company
in the amount of the additional two percent. Terry moved that the BTC
recommend to Council that the rate increase, if granted, should be in the
amount of 40t. Madsen seconded. Terry, Madsen and Sigrin voted aye.
Ehninger and Johnson abstained under the circumstance of having voted against
the previous motion. The motion passed.
Terry moved that it is the sense of the Commission that any public hearing on
a proposed rate increase should be held by the Council rather than the
Commission, in light of the City Council's past participation and preference.
Madsen seconded. Following discussion of the language of the motion, the
above -stated language was agreed upon and the vote was unanimous in favor of
the motion.
NEW BUSINESS:
Terry asked for feedback on the problem of communicating with the contiguous
communities. Terry asked what Commissioners' theories are regarding the
possibility of having a member of the cable commissions of the contiguous
communities sit on the Iowa City BTC. Johnson indicated he would be in favor
of closer communication among the various cable commissions. Ehninger said
the Riverfront Commission has members from all the communities. Helling said
there could be legal difficulties with seating members from outside the city
limits of Iowa City. Johnson suggested the possibility of an Eastern Iowa
Cable Regulatory Commission which would encompasse Cedar Rapids as well as
the Iowa City area cable bodies, in addition to representatives of access
groups and communities from the entire area. Slough expressed support for
better communication between cable commissions with which he has to deal,
with the hope that such cooperation might increase the knowledgeability of
other cable commissions with the issues. Ehninger suggested the BTC try an
informal approach and issue an invitation to the cable regulatory entities to
attend a mgeting of the Iowa City BTC.
Sigrin suggested that he would also like to see the BTC establish an award to
be given once a year based upon an individual or group's contribution to
telecommunications in Iowa City. Based upon input and recommendations from
knowledgeable individuals and groups, Sigrin said, the BTC would once a year
ina public forum, make a presentation of special recognition to a group,
individual or company who in the estimation of the BTC has made a significant
contribution. Johnson said this could be something like the certificate
presented to Anita Stech for her efforts on behalf of access in Iowa City.
Stewart reported on behalf of Access Iowa City, saying that in May she had
contacted the mayor of Coralville in regard to Coralville's participation in
access and found him to be interested in cable issues, though not well
informed. Stewart said also that she had contacted the chair of the Coral-
ville Cable Commission and invited him or a member of his Commission to
attend a meeting of Access Iowa City for an update on HR4103 and the process
of the cable franchise transfer, but although the invitation was accepted, no
/ 9V
MINUTES ^
BROADBAND TELECOMMUN. .(IONS COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 21, 1984
PAGE 4
one from Coralville attended. It was agreed this discussion would be
continued at a later date and the Commission would make efforts to engage
representatives of cable regulatory bodies in the Iowa City area in informal,
face-to-face dialogue.
ADJOURNMENT:
Meeting adjourned at 8:50 a.m. Madsen/Ehninger.
Respectfully submitted,
Wm. Drew—Shaffer
Broadband Telecommunications Specialist
/W
MINUTES
URBAN ENVIRONMENT AD HOC COMMITTEE
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11,1984 - 4:00 PM
CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Baker, Jordan, Lorenzen, VanderWoude, Koch, Brinton,
Amert, Strait (4:20)
MEMBERS ABSENT: Jakobsen, McGuire
STAFF PRESENT: Franklin, Milkman
CALL TO ORDER -
Co -Chairperson Baker called the meeting to order at 4:05 PM.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR AUGUST 14 AND AUGUST 28 1984:
Amert moved the approval of the minutes for August 14 as submitted. Jordan
seconded the motion which was approved unanimously.
Baker requested the addition of a statement to the minutes of August 28,
to the effect that the meeting and minutes were unofficial due to lack of
a quorum. The minutes for August '28 were adopted by consensus, as
amended. -
DISCUSSION OF PUBLIC MEETING FORMAT AND PROCEDURE:
Franklin recommended that the chairperson for the meeting present a short
history of the formation and duties of the Committee, explain the Comnit-
tee's-scope of concerns and the process by which special areas would be
designated for protection and management. She suggested that the meeting
then,be opened for public discussion.
Baker asked the staff to make the initial presentation and Committee
members agreed that they would prefer this. Franklin suggested that Baker
and/or Strait in opening the meeting for discussion, make clear what the
Committee was interested in hearing from the public. Baker said he wanted
to ask citizens to suggest anything that would improve the quality of life
in Iowa City. Franklin and Milkman cautioned the Committee against too
broad a discussion on the one hand and too narrow (i.e. specific sites) on
the other. The Committee agreed that they would basically listen and not
discuss specific sites.
Brinton suggested that examples of the types of areas the Committee was
looking at should be provided as part of the introductory presentation. It
was agreed that staff would put together a brief slide show to show
historic neighborhoods, environmentally sensitive areas, entranceways,
vistas, buffers, and open space, focusing both on earlier errors and
successes.
/9Ipjf
Urban Environment Ad ... Committee
September 11, 1984
Page 2
Lorenzen stated that the date for the Public Meeting conflicted with an
appearance by James Watt. VanderWoude mentioned that Irving Weber would
be speaking at a Historical Society meeting that night also. Because of
these conflicts the Committee agreed to postpone its public meeting to
September 26, 1984, and not to hold its regular meeting on September 25.
and
alsot thateflyershat staff advertising thto e -meetings be meeting
ed out to Cable
interested
groups and placed in public places. Franklin asked committee members to
notify the groups they represent of the meeting.
Straitrequested that staff prepare a brief handout for the public meeting
which describes the Committee's functions and concerns. Baker requested
that asked staffprepare
tsend Committeemembeonse ro the smembers- a ereminderDr.
prior ntor t. Strait
he public
meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 4:50 PM.
Minutes submitted by Marianne Milkman.
IM
Mayor's Youth Employment Program
Minutes
Board of Directors Meeting
September 26, 1984
Board Members Present: Denise Tiffany, Renato Deleon, Joan Jehle, Ted Halm,
Doug Bogenrie£ and Mike Kennedy.
Staff Present. Peg McElroy and Teresa Ulin
I. Call to Order: Ted Halm called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m.
11. Introductions and Welcome: New board member, Doug Bogenrief, was intro-
duced.
III. Approval of Mutes: The minutes from the June 27, 1984 meeting were read
by the board. Mike Kennedy/Doug Bogenrie£ moved to approve the minutes. MSC
Minutes:
IV. Financial Reports - June, July, August, 1984: Copies of the June Accounting
from the city were passed out. Peg explained that she and Regina Schreiber,
MYEP's accountant for the city, are currently adjusting the balances of the
accounts. The losses that are showing are caused by the fiscal year change.
MYEP/IL was $1037.02 overspent and the Jobs Club underspent by $118.27: The
Committee on Community Needs voted to apply the $118.27 toward payment of the
$1037.02 overspent amount, and approved contingency funds to cover the balance.
Peg also pointed out that the audit expenses for the year were only $83. Mike
Kennedy/Renato Deleon moved to approve the Financial Reports. MSC
V. Additional Agenda Items: Renato asked about the number of enrollee applica-
tions coming in for the program. peg explained that she hus interviewed at
least 20 young people for the program and everything is going well. The first
workshop was hold on September 27th and all applicants were asked to attend.
Except for City High, Peg has finished most of the recruiting for this year.
Ted inquired about the Jobs Club. Peg explained that MYEP may work with Job
Service of Iowa to modify their adult program. The modified program would be
targeted at young people and Job Se:vicu would assist Mayor's Youth in pre-
senting Jobs Club classes. The goal wus a coalition of all youth serving
agencies that are offering a type uC Jobs Club. peg said that she would very
much like to see such a group formed with a neutral site used for meetings.
The I.C. Public Library or Rec Center would be possible meeting places for
larger groups, with the MYEP office used for groups of 6-8 young people.
Peg asked Renato and Denise to point out things they would like to see empha-
sized in the Jobs Club. Ted suggested tliat practice interviews would be u
good idea for students, since interview anxiety is a big problem for some of
them. Denise also suggested that correctly done interviews be videotaped so
the kids could view them. Joan said that the Public Library would be a good
place to hold an intervie�i workshop, videotaping all the kids doing practice
interviews.
M' A
Board of Directors Meeting
September 26, 1984
Page 2
VI. New. Business
1. Resi,nation of Jack Robinson: Because his school schedule conflicts with
the MYEP meetings, Jac Robinson has decided to resign from the board. A
letter of resignation will be produced and passed on to Lorraine Saeger. The
position will than be advertised. Joan Jehle/Mike Kennedy moved to accept
Jack Robinson's resignation. MSC
Peg asked for the board's opinions about having a young person served on the
board. All agreed that it was a good idea. Ted suggested that 2 young people,
a male and a female, might be added. Peg asked the board for recommendations
of youth that would be interested. The position will be advertised. Ted
added that he would be willing to talk to John McDonald about serving on the
board. Peg pointed out that to her knowledge the Mayor could not be a board
member since city council members cannot served on boards of agencies they
fund.
2. Iowa Cit Striders Marathon: Peg displayed a sample of the Marathon T-
shirts or t is years race. As explained that for the past 7 years the
Marathon was a fund-raiser for Multiple Sclerosis. This year the Striders
are raising money for Hospice and the United Way Agencies. Keith Kafer is
the celebrity runner for MYEP. He will be raising funds directly for MYEP
through the pledges he gets. Peg encouraged the board to get involved or
spectate on race day, October 14.
3. Annual Re ort: Peg suggested that in early December MYEP hold a 15th
anniversary open house. An inexpensive annual report could be produced for
the open house and, also, for use at the funding hearings in January. At
the funding hearings the reports would be presented to representatives of
the United Way agencies and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. Peg
feels it's a good idea to have board members involved in the hearings. She
would like Keith to talk about MYEP's growth over the years, Joan stated
that she feels the goals and objectives should be included in the annual re-
port. Ted suggested that testimonies from former enrollees also be included
in the funding hearings.
VII, Old Business
1. Election of Officers: Ted was asked to serve as President of the Board,
but he feels that the leadership should be provided by the private sector.
Joan Jehle agreed to serve as Secretary/Treasurer, Mark Weaver as Vice -
President and Keith Kafer as President, Renato Deleon/Denise Tiffany moved
that the slate be approved. MSC
2. Summer�IYC Re ort: Peg reported that IYC completed their construction
projects on�l 0 Because of equipment delay, other jobs had to be found
in the parks to keep the kids busy at the beginning of the summer, Spirits
IM
Board of Directors Meeting
September 26, 1984
Page 3
VII. Old Business (continued)
were kept high, though. The completed projects are at Brookland Park, Terrell
Mill, Creekside and Happy Hollow. On July 20, John McDonald, Will Ambrisco,
and several representatives from the City of Iowa City Planning and Program
Development Department were present at a ceremony to dedicate the park shelter
at Terrell Mill. All the camping trips went well, including State Camp. Peg
felt it was a good summer overall.
Peg asked for input from the board as to whether they would prefer requesting
funding through the Community Development Block Grant or working with the
Johnson County Conservation funding for next year. It is hopeful that next
summer's program will be involved in preparation for the Junior Olympics at
the University of Iowa. Peg expressed that she would like to get the Johnson
County Conservation Commission more involved in the program.
3. Budd e�t Adjustments: Deferred until October meeting pending adjustments
with ttecity.
4. Shared Facilities Report: Peg explained that the grant from Opp for the
facilities was turne down. There will be a meeting next week to discuss the
options that are available. One option is renovating the
Building (corner of Gilbert B Washington) with the shared facilities occupying
the 2nd and 3rd floors. Another possibility is using the 3rd and 4th floors
Of the Paul -Helen Building. Other Options 'have also been discussed.
S. Peg asked Joan to write a cover letter for the Director's Evaluation so
that it can be sent to the various funding bodies. Joan agreed and will send
it to the office when completed.
6. The next meeting will be October 24th, 1984. It will be at 4:00 p.m, in
the Iowa City Public Library.
The meeting adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
Joan Jehle, Secret /Treasurer
Teresa Ulin, Secretary
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