HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-09-29 Info Packet_5 2N CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org September 29, 2016
IPI Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
OCTOBER 4 WORK SESSION
IP2 Work Session Agenda
IP3 Strategic Plan Update - October 2016
I134 Memo from City Clerk: Joint Meeting Agenda Items for October 24
I135 Pending City Council Work Session Topics
MISCELLANEOUS
IP6 Memo from City Manager: Budget at -a -Glance Document
IP7 Information from City Manager: Housing Development Toolkit
IP8 Article from City Manager: Jingle Cross Photo Essay: Field of Dreams
IP9 Article from City Manager: Commentary: Jingle Cross was Christmas in September for
US cyclocross fans
IP10 Memo from City Manager and City Clerk: Council Work Sessions
I1311 Memo from City Clerk: Council Meeting Schedule, November -December 2016
IP12 Memo from Human Resources Adm.: Fall Employee lunch — Save the Date
IP13 Copy of Press Release: City of Iowa City plans Halloween events
IP14 Copy of Press Release: Washington Street to re -open to two-way traffic in the 100 block
Friday
Email from Charming Jones: Committal Application/Doctor's Diagnosis No Mental Illness
[Distributed as late handout 10/3/16.]
DRAFT MINUTES
IP15 Community Police Review Board: September 13
CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CITY OF IOWA CITY
www.lcgov.org September 29, 2016
IN Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
I132
Work Session Agenda
I133
Strategic Plan Update - Oct
IP4
Memo from City Clerk: Joint
I135
Pending City Council Work
A
4 WORK SESSION
2016
Agenda Items for
%ng
Topics
I126 Memo from City Manager: Budget at -a-(
I137 Information from City Manager: Housing
I128 Article from City Manager: Jingle Cross
IP9 Article from City Manager: Commentar,
US cyclocross fans
24
Tient Toolkit
say: Field of Dreams
Cross was Christmas in September for
IP10 Memo from City Manager and City Cler : Council W rk Sessions
IP11 Memo from City Clerk: Coun/Ad.:
g Schedule, N en
IP12 Memo from Human Resourcall Employee lun t
IP13 Copy of Press Release: Cityity plans Halloweei
IP14 Copy of Press Release: Watreet to re -open to
Friday
DRAFT MINUTES
IP15 Community Policg4eview Board: September 13
ber-December 2016
— Save the Date
i events
traffic in the 100 block
J r
City Council Tentative Meeting
Schedule 09-29-16
o�
Subject to change
IP1
CITY OF IOWA CITY
September 27, 2016
Date
Time
Meeting
Location
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Monday, October 24, 2016
4:00 PM
Reception
Johnson County Health
4:30 PM
Joint Entities Meeting
Human Services Bldg.
Tuesday, November 1, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, November 15, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, January 17, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
IP2
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(319) 356-5000
(319) 3S6-5009 FAX
www.lcgov.org
City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Emma J. Harvat Hall - City Hall
5:00 PM
• Review Strategic Plan Status Report [IP # 3 Info Packet of 9/29]
• Council Appointments [Agenda item # 11]
• Questions from Council re Agenda Items
• Discussion of joint agenda items for October 24 [IP # 4 Info Packet of 9/29]
• Information Packet Discussion [September 22, 29]
• Council Time
• Meeting Schedule
• Pending Work Session Topics [IP # 5 Info Packet of 9/29]
• Upcoming Community Events/Council Invitations
2016-17
Strategic Plan Update
October 2016
City of Iowa City
410 E. Washington St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
319.356.5010
icgov.org
,7
• • • Table of contents
Tableof contents........................................................................................................................................................................................................2
Introductionand overview................................................................................................................................................................................. 3 - 7
Priority 1:
Promote a strong and resilient economy................................................................................................................................... 8-12
Priority 2:
Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core.................................................................................................................
1 3 -
17
Priority 3:
Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City............................................................................................................
18 -
20
Priority A:
Maintain a solid financial foundation...................................................................................................................................21
-
22
Priority 5:
Enhance community engagement and intergovernmental relations................................................................................
23 -
26
Priority 6:
Promote environmental sustainability...................................................................................................................................
27 -
35
Priority 7:
Advance social justice and racial equity..............................................................................................................................36
-
Al
Page: 2
• • • 14 Introduction and ovorviow
City Council members are, from left:
Terry Dickens, District B
Pauline Taylor, District A
Jim Throgmorton, At -Large, Mayor
John Thomas, District C
Kingsley Botchway II, At -Large, Mayor Pro Tem
Susan Mims, At -Large
Rockne Cole, At -Large
Po ge: 3
City of Iowa City organizational profile
City Council
Iowa City is governed by an elected City Council of seven members: four Council members
at -large and three District members. The Council is responsible for appointing the City
Manager, City Attorney, and City Clerk.
City Manager
The City Manager serves as the chief administrative officer for the organization. The City
Manager implements the policy decisions of the City Council, enforces City ordinances, and
appoints City officials, as well as supervises the directors of the City's operating depart-
ments.
City staff
Iowa City employs approximately 600 full-time staff members to execute the City Council's
policies and provide public services to over 70,000 residents. These include utilities (water,
sewer, stormwater, and garbage and recycling services), and public services (public safety,
building and housing inspections, parks and recreation, street maintenance, engineering,
development services, transportation, local cable television programming, and senior ser-
vices).
City accolades
In 2008, Iowa City was designated as a City of Literature by UNESCO, becoming the third
city recognized internationally and the first and only U.S. city to date. Since 2014, the City
has been recognized in over 20 "Best Of" publications, including "The Best Small City for
Educated Millennials" by Business Insider, "The Best City for College Grads" by the Huffing -
ton Post, and "The Best City for Successful Aging" and "Number Five Best Performing Small
City" by the Milliken Institute.
• • • Introduction and overview
History and background
The strategic planning goal -setting session focused on the following areas:
Issues, concerns, trends, and opportunities
Ongoing or committed projects
Significant new projects, programs, policies, and initiatives
Council further refined their top priorities and initiatives at subsequent work sessions. Specific programs, policies, and projects were identified
to guide staff activities for the next two years and communicate Council's priorities to the public.
The resolution on the March 1, 2016 City Council agenda formally adopted the Council's strategic plan priorities and reflected the language,
goals, and intentions that were developed by the City Council in the work sessions and meetings held Nov. 30, 2015, and Jan. 14, Jan. 21,
Feb. 2, and Feb. 16, 2016.
Iowa City's 2016-17 Strategic Plan
This strategic plan intends to foster a more inclusive, just and sustainable Iowa City.
1. Promote a strong and resilient local economy
2. Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
3. Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City
4. Maintain a solid financial foundation
5. Enhance community engagement and intergovernmental relations
6. Promote environmental sustainability
7. Advance social justice and racial equity
Page: 4
Introduction and ovorviow
0
Page: 5
City Council -identified projects, programs, policies,
and initiatives for the Strategic Plan
Promote a strong and resilient local economy
• Identify how the City and local partners can effectively market and grow the local
foods economy
• Review and consider amending the City's Tax Increment Finance (TIF) policy
• Promote neighborhood commercial districts and build stronger relations with business
owners throughout the community
• Work closely with the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College on future
facilities and economic development opportunities, especially in the Riverfront Cross-
ings District
• Work closely with the ICCSD, Kirkwood Community College, labor organizations, Iowa
Works and others to explore the feasibility of an industrial arts/crafts facility in Iowa
City
• Proactively seek opportunities to facilitate development of our interstate entryways in
a manner consistent with this strategic plan
• Develop programs aimed to enhance small business development and retention with a
focus on diverse communities
Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
• Consider creating a new City Council committee with a focus on the sustainable built
environment
• Support historic preservation efforts
• Initiate public dialogue about the meaning and importance of a walkable neighbor-
hood and how to achieve it
• Encourage diverse housing types and price points for a variety of income levels
Introduction and ovorviow
Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City
• Consider amending the City's Annexation Policy to require the provision of affordable housing in residential/mixed-use areas
• Evaluate the implementation of a Form Based Code in one or two parts of the community
• Develop strategies to diversify the membership of neighborhood associations
• Substantially improve access and use of public spaces through improvements to sidewalks, streetscapes, parks, and schools
Maintain a solid financial foundation
• Continue to monitor the impact of the 2013 property tax reform and evaluate alternative revenue sources as determined necessary
• Continue to build the City's Emergency Fund
• Monitor potential changes to Moody's rating criteria and maintain the City's Aaa bond rating
• Continue to reduce the City's property tax levy
• Maintain healthy fund balances throughout the City's diverse operations
Enhance community engagement and intergovernmental relations
• Provide timely and appropriate input on the ICCSD's planned 2017 bond referendum
• Televise regular City Council work sessions
• Significantly improve the ability of Council and staff to engage with diverse populations on complex or controversial topics
Promote environmental sustainability
• Raise Iowa City's Bicycle -Friendly Community status from silver to gold by 2017 and aspire toward a platinum status in the future
• Evaluate and consider implementation of a plastic bag policy
• Undertake a project in FY 2017 that achieves a significant measurable carbon emission reduction
• Set a substantive and achievable goal for reducing city-wide carbon emissions by 2030, and create an ad-hoc climate change task force,
potentially under an umbrella STAR Communities committee, to devise a cost-effective strategy for achieving the goal
• Collaborate with community partners on sustainability efforts
Page: 6
Introduction and ovorviow
Advance social justice and racial equity
• Develop and implement a racial / socioeconomic equity review toolkit
• Support the Housing First initiative and other local homeless efforts, including the temporary winter shelter
• Consider creating a City Council committee with a focus on social justice and racial equity
• Evaluate initiatives to effectively engage the community's youth
• Identify and implement an achievable goal to reduce disproportionality in arrests
• Create a racial equity grant program
• Develop a partnership with the University of Iowa and other key stakeholders that will aid efforts to recruit and retain a greater minority
workforce
• Identify a substantive and achievable goal for the provision of affordable housing in Iowa City and implement strategies to achieve this
goal
Page: 7
I Promote a strong and resilient local economy
More than 200 people
attended the inaugural
Iowa City Farm to Street
Dinner on Linn Street in
late August. Tickets
went on sale in advance,
and were sold out within
a matter of hours. IL
Page: 8
Strategies to meet this goal:
Identify how the City and local partners can
effectively market and grow the local foods economy
Budgeted $25,000 for local foods initiatives
Community meal project
Develop a partnership between the City of Iowa City, Johnson County and Field to
Family to hold a community meal to support local food producers, raise awareness of
community-based food systems, and raise funds for Field to Family and the Iowa City
Parks and Recreation Foundation. The City provided financial support in the amount
of $5,000 for the event, called the "Iowa City Farm to Street Dinner." City staff
helped plan and organize the dinner, working with fellow coordinating partners, and
the City also provided operational support for permit applications, road closures,
traffic control, recycling and clean-up.
Double Up Food Bucks
The City created the "Double Up Food Bucks" program at the Iowa City Farmers
Markets with $5,000 in sponsorship funds. Through the program, electronic benefit
transfer (EBT) users can double their cash when making purchases at Iowa City Farm-
ers Markets.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Iowa City Farmers Markets began offering a centralized Supplemental Nutrition As-
sistance Program (SNAP) program in 2016.
► Backyard Abundance Edible Classroom project
The City partnered on the Backyard Abundance Edible Classroom educational proj-
ect at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center. This garden, a community partnership
• • • 1 Promote a strong and resilient local economy
Building the Backyard Abundance Edible Classroom
Project at the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center
0
•
Po ge: 9
with several sponsors and supporters, including the State of Iowa Department of Ag-
riculture, was planted adjacent to the Recreation Center and is utilized in numerous
recreational classes. A ribbon -cutting for the garden was held on Sept. 17, 2016.
► Backyard Abundance plant sale and fundraiser
Backyard Abundance, in partnership with the City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation
Department, held an edible plant sale and fundraiser at the Robert A. Lee Recreation
Center in advance of the growing season. The plants offered for sale to the public
were grown as locally as possible, and were carefully chosen for bountiful yields and
flavor.
► Farmers Market events: Taste of Market and Local Food Fair
Two special events were held in September 2016 at the Iowa City Farmers Market.
For Taste of Market, Farmers Market staff grilled and distributed free samples from
local vendors. At the Local Food Fair, hosted by Field to Family, the work being done
to support Iowa City's local food system was showcased.
Review and consider amending the City's
Tax Increment Finance (TIF) policy
Ti F policy stakeholder meetings
TIF policy stakeholder meetings are underway. Eight focus groups are meeting to
solicit feedback on current policies and recommendations for improvement. Focus
groups include, but are not limited to: past TIF recipients; affected taxing entities;
nonprofit organizations; architects, engineers, and developers; community promo-
tional organizations such as the Iowa City Downtown District, Chamber of Commerce,
and the Convention and Visitors Bureau; environmental advocacy groups; and arts
and cultural organizations. Council will receive the public input generated through this
process as potential policy amendments are considered.
1 Promote a strong and resilient local economy
Economic development policy update
The City's economic development policies were amended May 3, 2016 to include a requirement for the provision of affordable housing
when residential projects receive public financing, including TIF. Fifteen percent of residential units must be affordable for a minimum of
20 years when a project receives City funding.
Promote neighborhood commercial districts and build stronger relations with
business owners throughout the community
Involvement with business community
City staff serve on the boards of the Chamber of Commerce, Iowa City Area Development Group, and the Iowa City Downtown District.
Staff members regularly attend functions offered by these groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce roundtable lunches.
Small business engagement
Through the "So, you want to start a business?" program and Kirkwood scholarship partnership, staff is working to strengthen relations
with Kirkwood Community College and emerging small businesses.
Work closely with the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College on
future facilities and economic development opportunities, especially in the
Riverfront Crossings District
MERGE co -working space and prototype laboratory
MERGE is a collaboration between the University of Iowa, Iowa City Area Development Group, Inc. (ICAD), and the City of Iowa City for
entrepreneurial co -working space and prototype laboratory. The facility is located in the City -owned Iowa City Public Library commer-
cial space and is provided to MERGE at reduced rent. The City also supports CAD operations annually. The City Council has authorized
the City Manager to contribute up to $100,000 for build -out of the space. MERGE has secured a $1.5 million Iowa Economic Develop-
ment Authority grant and $800,000 in federal funding from the U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration.
Page: 10
Promote a strong and resilient local economy
The workshops in the "So, you want to start a busi-
ness?" series offered topics including how to turn
your passion into profit, legal issues, licenses, taxes,
tax structures, permits, and financial statements.
•
Renderings
from MERGE
co -working
space and
prototype lab
Page: 11
Work closely with the ICCSD, Kirkwood Community
College, labor organizations, Iowa Works, and others
to explore the feasibility of an industrial arts / crafts
facility in Iowa City
► No action to date. This topic may require additional Council discussions in the coming
months.
Proactively seek opportunities to facilitate
development of our interstate entryways
in a manner consistent with this Strategic Plan
Private development projects
Staff continues to have dialogue regarding development opportunities along the
1-80 corridor.
Develop programs aimed to enhance small business
development and retention with a focus on
diverse communities
► "So, you want to start a business? workshop series
The City of Iowa City entered into discussions with Johnson County, Kirkwood Com-
munity College, MidWestOne Bank, and Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County to
evaluate strategies to increase the number of businesses in the area that are owned
by women and/or persons of color. One of the results of these discussions was de-
velopment of the "So, you want to start a business?" educational series. Through this
series, five educational workshops on business development were held at Kirkwood
• • • ■ Promote a strong and resilient local economy
Community College's Iowa City campus to provide information and technical assistance to people who want to start their own business.
These workshops were specifically marketed to women, immigrants, and persons of color. Approximately 50 unique individuals attended.
PowerPoint slides are available on the City's website for those unable to attend.
► MicroLoan Program
The City's MicroLoan Program was tweaked to offer better terms (3% interest, $10,000 maximum loan for a five-year term), leading
to renewed interest in the program, especially after the educational workshops at Kirkwood. This program provides low- to moderate -
income persons with access to affordable loans to start or expand a business in Iowa City. Our MidWestOne and Kirkwood Community
College partners are actively promoting the MicroLoan Program, and City staff is promoting the program at the One Million Cups and
Start-up Coffee events.
The following four local entrepreneurs are being assisted:
• Community Serving Community Daycare: This minority- and woman -operated non-profit received a $5,000 loan to double low-
income daycare capacity.
• College Gaming Series: A $10,000 loan was awarded to expand business in MERGE Space One.
• Alfie's Beauty Supply: This minority- and woman -owned business is requesting $10,000 to purchase equipment and inventory.
• ALMVGHTY: This minority-owned clothing business is requesting $10,000 to expand operations.
► Scholarships
The City provided a grant of $3,580 to sponsor scholarships for 10 students to participate in an internship program at Kirkwood Com-
munity College's Iowa City campus in their deli laboratory. Students will earn college credit, apply for college admission and financial
aid, and complete a business plan and a microloan application with the City.
Other initiatives
► Facade improvements
Funding was approved for fagade improvements for Big Grove Brewery's Iowa City location. This redevelopment is an important first step
in revitalizing the southern portion of the Riverfront Crossings District. The planned park development adjacent to the Big Grove site will
also help encourage further investment in the area.
Page: 12
• • • 0 Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
In May, a piece of local architectural history was
saved when the Houser -Metzger House was moved
from its original location on Iowa Avenue to its new
site on College Street, where it overlooks College
Green Park. Restoration continues on the house.
Preservation efforts are also being made for the log
cabins in Upper City Park, which are listed on the
National Register of Historic Places.
1116 127�
_w
Page: 13
Strategies to meet this goal:
Consider creating a new City Council committee
with a focus on the sustainable built environment
► Council considered this action at the April 5, 2016 work session and decided not to
move forward with the committee as proposed.
Support historic preservation efforts
► Houser -Metzger House move
The City facilitated the move of the historic Houser -Metzger House from 422 Iowa
Avenue to 623 College Street. As a result, approximately 45 tons of what would have
been demolition debris were saved from the landfill, and a historically appropriate
house was saved and moved to the College Green Historic District. Several depart-
ments and divisions, including Public Works - Streets, Parks and Recreation - Forestry,
Police, and Neighborhood and Development Services - Inspections and Historic Pres-
ervation, devoted staff time and resources to guiding the move of the house across
five City blocks.
Rehabilitation on Upper City Park log cabins
The City secured a $25,000 Historical Resource Development Program grant for
rehabilitation for City Park's Old Settlers' Association of Johnson County Cabins. The
cabins are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Cabin restoration will be
completed in 2017.
Historical designation
The historical designation of 716 N. Dubuque Street was approved at the April 19,
2016 City Council meeting.
Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
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n a city adapt?
Demographics are
changing.
Transportation choices are
changing.
Urban lifestyles are
changing.
Housing preferences are
changing.
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Page: 14
► National Register of Historic Places
A home at 715 W. Park Road was nominated for inclusion on the National Register
of Historic Places.
► Historic preservation
The Council added funding to expand staff hours dedicated to Historic Preservation
beginning in FY 2017.
Irving B. Weber Days at Iowa City Public Library
In May, National Historic Preservation Month, the Iowa City Public Library leads the
annual Irving B. Weber Days to celebrate local history. Working with several commu-
nity partners, the series schedules a variety of programs and events to promote the
importance of local history and the Library's resources for researching local history.
Initiate public dialogue about the meaning and
importance of a walkable neighborhood
and how to achieve it
► "Missing Middle: Responding to the Demand for Walkable Urban Living"
public and staff presentations conducted by Dan Parolek
Daniel Parolek is a nationally recognized architect, urbanist and leader in architec-
ture, design, and urban planning who presented to City staff and the public in May
2016. "Missing Middle Housing" is a term Parolek uses to define the type of housing
that falls between single-family homes and large apartment complexes or high-rises
— duplexes, fourplexes, bungalow courts, mansion apartments, and live -work units.
The Missing Middle provides housing for a range of incomes, ages, and lifestyles, and
easily fits in with existing single-family neighborhoods, infill or urban renewal areas,
or new construction projects.
2 Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
Zach Benedict
• •
Jay Walljasper
• • •
Jeff Speck
Page: 15
► Zach Benedict presentation
Zach Benedict is one of the leading voices in the "Lifetime Community" movement,
focusing on the socioeconomic benefits of age -friendly neighborhoods. Mr. Benedict
discusses research that indicates successful cities consistently prioritize communal at-
tachment through social offerings, openness, and aesthetics. He is scheduled to speak
at the Senior Center in the spring of 2017.
►
Jay Walljasperworkshops
Two public presentations were conducted in the spring of 2016. The first, "All That
We Share: A Discussion of the Commons," was focused on a discussion of how com-
munity resources must be actively protected and managed for the good of all. The
second event, a workshop titled, "25 Ways You Can Create a Strong Community,"
focused on placemaking and the commons with an emphasis on community develop-
ment in Iowa City's Downtown.
► Jeff Speck presentation
Staff is working to coordinate an event in the fall of 2016 with Jeff Speck, a city
planner and urban designer who, through writing, lectures, and built work, advocates
internationally for smart growth and sustainable design. As Director of Design at the
National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 through 2007, he oversaw the Mayors'
Institute on City Design and created the Governors' Institute on Community Design, a
federal program that helps state governors fight suburban sprawl.
► Robin Hambleton visit: "Leading the Inclusive City"
In March 2016, Professor Robin Hambleton, Professor of City Leadership in the Cen-
tre for Sustainable Planning and Environments at the University of the West of Eng-
land in Bristow, presented "Leading the Inclusive City" at the Iowa City Public Library.
The program addressed global inequality and how cities can take steps to minimize
inequality, advance social justice, promote environmental responsibility, and bolster
community empowerment.
• • • 2 Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
• • •
Washington Street
median planting
project brought staff
together to beautify
the boulevard.
Page: 16
Encourage diverse housing types and price points
for a variety of income levels
► Inclusionary housing code amendments
Council adopted inclusionary housing code amendments for the Riverfront Crossings
District on July 5, 2016.
► Affordable housing requirements for TIF projects
Council adopted affordable housing requirements for projects supported through
tax increment financing on May 3, 2016.
► Housing First/FUSE initiative
Council supported the Housing First/FUSE initiative, including financial support of
$275,000 and adopting the necessary zoning code amendments. The project will
construct a facility that provides low -barrier housing for chronically homeless indi-
viduals. The zoning code amendments were adopted on July 5, 2016.
► Pine Grove subdivision approval
Approved the Pine Grove development, a 12 -lot, 9.3 -acre residential subdivision
located south of Lower West Branch Road between Scott Boulevard and Humming-
bird Lane. The subdivision offers diverse housing options, with 10 single family lots,
one 36 -unit building, and two 4 -unit townhouse -style buildings. The development also
preserved approximately an acre of pine trees at the corner of Lower West Branch
Road and Scott Boulevard.
Other initiatives
► Washington Street median planting project
City staff from various departments volunteered to assist the Parks Division in re-
planting the Washington Street medians following the Houser -Metzger House move.
Encourage a vibrant and walkable urban core
• • •
Throughout construction on Washington Street,
access to businesses is maintained.
Page: 17
► Washington Street Reconstruction Project
The City Council approved the contract for the reconstruction of two blocks of Wash-
ington Street in Downtown Iowa City. In addition to upgraded underground utilities
the project enhances accessibility and walkability through wider sidewalks, narrower
vehicle lanes and crosswalks, evenly distributed parallel parking, enhanced plantings
and street trees, improved ADA ramps and slopes, and consistent cafe locations for
predictable walking paths.
Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City
The new playground at
Mercer Park is now the
City's largest play area —
and it's also all-inclusive,
for use by families and
children of all abilities.
Page: 18
Strategies to meet this goal:
Consider amending the City's Annexation Policy
to require the provision of affordable housing
in residential / mixed-use areas
Revised annexation policy
City Council directed staff to prepare a revised annexation policy as part of the Af-
fordable Housing Action Plan.
Evaluate the implementation of a form -based code
in one or two parts of the community
Concept plan
An RFP has been issued for consultant services for the development of concept plans
and a report with recommendations for implementation of a form -based code and
"missing middle housing" for undeveloped areas of Iowa City's South District and for
the established Northside neighborhood. The selected firm will also be required to
provide an analysis and recommendations to address parking demand issues in near -
Downtown neighborhoods.
Ordinance amendments and rezonings
The Council adopted the east -side mixed use form -based code on Sept. 20, 2016.
Develop strategies to diversify the membership
of neighborhood associations
No actions have been taken to date.
Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City
New amenities at Highland Park include a
park shelter and playground equipment
• • •
Rendering for a new playground structure
at Pheasant Hill Park
Page: 19
Substantially improve access and use of
public spaces through improvements to sidewalks,
streetscapes, parks, and schools
► Mercer Park playground improvements
The City's largest play area was installed at Mercer Park in the spring of 2016. The
play structure is all-inclusive, allowing access for families and children of all abilities.
► Highland Park renovation
This completed project features new playground equipment, shelter, sidewalk acces-
sibility improvements, and a water fountain with a bottle filler and dog dish.
► Pheasant Hill Park playground improvements
The neighborhood weighed in on the playground's design at a well -attended neigh-
borhood meeting. Installation is anticipated in fall 2016.
► Park ADA access and facility master plan
Council approved the contract for services at the September 6 meeting. The master
plan is a 10 -year planning document that prioritizes providing equitable, accessible,
and well-maintained park facilities throughout the City. Park facilities will be evalu-
ated for accessibility and compliance with ADA regulations, assessment of current
safety and maintenance needs, and recommendations for future facility needs.
► Other park improvement initiatives
• Willow Creek Park: restroom and trails, 2016
• Happy Hollow Park: restroom and shelter, 2017
• Mercer Park: tennis courts/pickleball courts renovations, 2017
• Frauenholtz-Miller Park: shelter, paths and playground, 2017
• Cardigan Park: Master plan
• Creekside Park: Park renovation, 2017
3 Foster healthy neighborhoods throughout the City
• Wetherby Park: Wellmark grant for sport court, 2017
• Park planning: Planning processes are underway or complete for Lower City Park, Eastside Sports Complex, Riverfront Crossings
Park, and Hickory Hill Park. Each planning process incorporates a significant amount of public and neighborhood input.
Expanded curb ramp projects
The City Council approved doubling the funds allocated to the dedicated curb ramp project in each of the last three years. In 2016, the
program is installing ramps near Grant Wood Elementary School, in the Riverfront Crossings District, and other locations as requested by
residents. In 2016, funding for the asphalt overlay was also increased significantly; 10-15% of this project's funding is typically used to
install new curb ramps.
Other public space initiatives
COMPLETE STREETS FUNDING
Annual complete streets funding of $300,000 begins in 2017. This is a new initiative of the City Council. Funds will be used to support
road diets on Sycamore Street and Clinton Street.
TREES
An RFP has been issued for a comprehensive tree inventory. This will assist in our Emerald Ash Borer response, and future street tree
plantings.
NATURAL AREAS
An RFP has been issued for a natural areas maintenance and master plan.
Other initiatives
Housing Exterior Loan Program
The Housing Exterior Loan Program (HELP) offers financial assistance to help upgrade the safety and appearance of local housing stock,
while preserving neighborhood vitality. Zero -interest loans are provided for 50% of the cost of eligible improvements, up to $10,000.
Continued UniverCity Neighborhood Partnership investments
To date, 55 homes have been renovated and sold for owner -occupied housing. Currently, one home is complete and the purchase offer
pending; two homes are under rehabilitation; and one is being prepared for bid. The City will purchase two more homes this year for
rehabilitation and sale to income -eligible homebuyers.
Page: 20
4 Maintain a solid financial foundation
Strategies to meet this goal:
Continue to monitor the impact of the 2013 property tax reform
and evaluate alternative revenue sources as determined necessary
Alternative revenue streams are being evaluated in conjunction with affordable housing initiatives. These options will be evaluated more
thoroughly during the fiscal year 2017-2018 budgeting process.
Continue to build the City's emergency fund
The City has created an emergency fund in order to prepare for the effects of 2013 property tax reform. The emergency fund will give
the City financial flexibility, given the uncertainty of future revenue, and maintain service levels in the event of a sharp decline in revenue
or the loss of State of Iowa "backfill" payments. From FY1 3-16, the City has built an emergency reserve totaling $4,698,779 through
annual transfers. The FY17 transfer will be considered during the next budget process.
Monitor potential changes to Moody's rating criteria and maintain the
City's Aaa bond rating
Moody's reaffirmed the City's Aaa general obligation bond rating with the 2016 bond issue. The rating report noted that, "The City's fi-
nancial operations are expected to remain healthy, given strong financial management, significant operating fund reserves and sufficient
revenue -raising flexibility."
Continue to reduce the City's property tax levy
The fiscal year 2016-2017 budget reduced the City's property tax levy rate by 0.41 %, the fifth consecutive year of levy rate decreases.
The fiscal year 2017-2018 levy rate will be determined during the budget process that begins in the fall of 2016.
Page: 21
Maintain a solid financial foundation
Maintain healthy fund balances throughout the City's diverse operations
1110� The City's funds currently have healthy fund balances. Utility rates and service charges are evaluated annually to ensure they are suf-
ficient to fund operations and capital improvement needs. Maintaining adequate fund balances is a large component of Moody's bond
rating criteria.
Page: 22
Distribution of Moody's General Obligation Bond Ratings for Cities in
$18 00
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$15.00
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FY07 F196 FF09 FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 I FY16 FY17
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Page: 22
Iowa City Property Tax Rete Trend
$18 00
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$13 00
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• • • 5 Enhance community engagement & intergovernmental relations
Strategies to meet this goal:
Provide timely and appropriate input on the ICCSD's planned 2017 bond referendum
This item is on Council's pending work session list for further discussion.
Televise regular City Council work sessions
lll� This has been completed.
Significantly improve the Council and staff's ability to engage with diverse
populations on complex or controversial topics
lll� This item is scheduled for discussion on Council's pending work session topic list. Council and staff have participated in a number of panel
discussions, forums, neighborhood meetings, and listening posts that will help inform the conversation. Some recent examples of public
outreach on complex or controversial topics include:
• City staff attended the "Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) Forum: The Impact of Racial Injustices on Youth" held at the Iowa
City Public Library and sponsored by the DMC Youth Committee for Johnson County.
• TIF stakeholder meetings are being held with a broad range of community groups.
• The Police Department participated in a panel discussion on Police and Public Safety at the "Relax:Talk:Grow" event held at the
Iowa City Public Library. It was sponsored by the University of Iowa African American Council and the University of Iowa Public Policy
Center.
• Council listening posts have been held at new locations, engaging a more representative sample of the community.
• Staff created a budget at -a -glance document to convey key points of the FY17 budget and will further refine that effort for the
FYI budget.
• The Mayor initiated a new neighborhood walk program to engage residents in varying parts of the community.
Page: 23
•
Johnson
County
Enhance community engagement & intergovernmental relations
6(
City of Iowa City
HUMANRIGHTS
Commission
319-356-5022
www.icgov.orglhumanrights
humanrights@iowa-city.org
iLACK
VICESlz
Page: 24
Other initiatives
Several of these include activities related to recommendations from the Ad Hoc Diversity
Committee and actions plans from the reports on racial equity.
► Staff roundtables
The City Manager's roundtable conversations have continued to engage community
stakeholders on issues of inclusivity and social justice. Community groups that attend
roundtables include but are not limited to: Black Voices Project, the Coalition for Ra-
cial Justice, the Human Rights Commission, the Center for Worker Justice of Eastern
Iowa, and Johnson County. The consultants conducting the Police Chief search met with
the roundtable to solicit input when developing the candidate profile.
► Crisis Intervention Team concept
Council and staff have been working with several local agencies to explore the Crisis
Intervention Team (CIT) concept for assisting individuals experiencing mental illness
or substance abuse crises. The working group includes law enforcement agencies,
health care providers, community advocacy groups, social service providers, and
elected officials. Several Council members and City staff members have traveled to
San Antonio, Texas to observe the program's operations first-hand, and officers have
received week-long training in the program. Local officer training programs are be-
ing developed.
► Shelter House donation drive
The City celebrated National Community Development Week by sponsoring a dona-
tion drive for Shelter House to collect cleaning supplies and personal care products.
► City department and division initiatives - Outreach
COMMUNITY OUTREACH OFFICER
A full-time Community Outreach Officer position was added in the Police Depart-
ment.
Enhance community engagement & intergovernmental relations
A bookmark project by the Iowa City Public Library and
the Police Department encouraged reading, shared
safety messages, and provided information in several
languages on how to get a Library card.
Po ge: 25
COFFEE WITH A COP
The expanded Coffee with a Cop program continues to provide monthly public out-
reach in geographically dispersed locations throughout the community.
LOST PROGRAM
The Police Department collaborated with several community organizations to launch
the "Loved Ones Safe Together" (LOST) program to assist in identifying and locat-
ing community members who have been separated from their families or caretakers.
ICPD hosted a community presentation to launch the project.
LIBRARY CARDS
The Iowa City Public Library extended outreach on how to get a library card by
creating handbills in several languages, including Spanish and Arabic.
SAFETY MESSAGES
The Library teamed up with the Iowa City Police Department to produce cards that
provide information on how to get a library card in English, Spanish, Arabic and
French, along with a safety tip from the Police Department.
► City department and division initiatives - Participation in events
PUBLIC EVENTS
ICPD officers attended many public events, including the Polar Plunge to benefit
Special Olympics Iowa; an RVAP open house; Juneteenth activities; a career day at
Regina High School; and participation on a domestic sexual violence panel discus-
sion. Evening watch officers also presented donated items, including a new television,
to the Youth Emergency Shelter.
COMMUNITY PRESENTATIONS
Iowa City officers participated in numerous community presentations, including a
number of ALICE active shooter training sessions; presentations to Cub Scout groups,
the Dream Center, a shoplifter diversion program and ICCSD summer programs; and
continued their involvement in discussions about a low -barrier shelter for the home-
less in Iowa City.
Enhance community engagement & intergovernmental relations
0
Staff from numerous City departments and
divisions participated in this year's Juneteenth
celebration at Mercer Park.
0
Page: 26
UI TRAINING
ICPD officers conducted three one-hour training sessions titled, "Know the Law," to
173 University of Iowa students.
SCHOOL EVENTS
Iowa City Public Library staff attended events at Mark Twain and Grant Wood El-
ementary Schools. In total, 201 students received new or replacement library cards
through the Library's outreach programs to help students get library cards in time
for summer and the Summer Library Bus program. The Library also worked with the
Iowa City Police Department and Iowa City Fire Department to create bookmarks
they use in their outreach initiatives. The bookmarks provide contact information and
encourage students to read.
JOB FAIR
The Human Resources and Police Departments participated in the "Center of Influ-
ence Tour, Lunch and Job Fair" with the National Guard and Employer Support of the
Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The job fair was an opportunity to network with other
area employers and to visit with job seekers.
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Councilmembers and City staff of several different departments including the City
Manager's Office, Police, Fire, Library, Neighborhood Services and Human Rights,
participated and volunteered in events held as part of the Sixth Annual Juneteenth
Celebration in Iowa City. The City was a co-sponsor of the event.
EARTH DAY
Staff participated in Kirkwood Community College's Earth Day Event sponsored by
Kirkwood's Ecology and Environmental Club.
Promote environmontal sustainability
Fit
Page: 27
Strategies to meet this goal:
Raise Iowa City's "Bicycle -Friendly Community"
status from silver to gold by 2017 and aspire
toward a platinum status in the future
Bike master plan
Proposals for consultant services to develop a new Bicycle Master Plan were due Au-
gust 23, 2016. The proposals have been scored and interviews with firms are being
scheduled. The planning process is expected to take approximately 8-10 months. The
planning goals identified in the request for proposals are as follows:
• Articulate a clear vision and achievable goals to create a bicycle system and
supporting policies and programs that address the needs and safety of all users.
• Engage strong and diverse public participation in the planning process, including
input from traditionally under -represented groups (e.g. economically disadvan-
taged populations, racial/ethnic minorities, youth) at all steps of the process.
• Describe strategies and performance measures to:
— Guide the planning, funding, implementation and maintenance of projects pro-
posed in the plan;
— Create a safe and seamless network of on- and off-street bicycle facilities
and routes; and
— Increase number of bicyclists of all ages, genders, income levels, and abilities.
• Scope the highest priority projects to include:
— An assessment of cultural and environmental constraints for the identified proj-
ects;
— Written documentation of project issues and overall feasibility;
— A complete preliminary cost estimate for further engineering, project adminis-
tration, and construction;
Promote environmental sustainability
• • •
Temporary construction
of the bike boulevard
demonstrated another
safe -street possibility
for Iowa City bicyclists.
Po ge: 28
— Consider innovative design concepts and best practices, including wayfinding
and identification of bikeways (actual design of wayfinding elements is not
part of this process).
• Develop a phased action plan to initiate improvements to the bicycle network to
achieve gold level status as a Bicycle -Friendly Community in the short-term (in
2017), and build a foundation for a more comprehensive network that will ensure
all residents access to a safe, low -stress route to serve their daily bicycling needs.
► Bike boulevard demonstration
Graduate students from the University of Iowa College of Public Health demonstrat-
ed a bike boulevard, a low -speed and low-volume street that optimizes bicycling
conditions to create safer, more sustainable, and beautiful community streetscapes.
A bike boulevard creates more defined bike lanes and controls traffic flow to build
a network of comfortable and safe streets for all community members. The City
provided financial and logistical support for the 2016 demonstration, and acted as
fiscal agent for a grant received by the event's organizers. Approximately 140-160
bicyclists rode the route on College Street from City High to the Saturday morning
Farmers Market. Participants also received informational materials and bike checks
from World of Bikes and giveaways funded with a grant from People for Bikes.
► Bike share RFP
Proposals for bike share services were submitted in September in response to a re-
quest for proposals issued as a collaboration between the University of Iowa and
the City of Iowa City. The project also uses Iowa Department of Transportation fund-
ing. Proposals are currently being reviewed with a launch expected in the spring of
2017.
Promote onvironmontal sustainability
Bike parklet • • •
Community bike rides
Page: 29
► Bike parklet
A bike parklet has been fabricated and will be installed near the corner of Dubuque
and Washington Streets in 2016. The design was selected through a request for pro-
posals issued as a partnership between the Downtown District and Think Bicycles of
Johnson County. The following goals were stated in the RFP:
• Add a unique and imaginative on -street structure that enhances and activates the
aesthetic of the street corner.
• Create additional safe and convenient bike parking Downtown.
• Provide an impactful visual cue of the community's ongoing commitment to bicycle
usage and alternative modes of transportation.
► Bike amenities
Bike fix -it stations and stackable bicycle storage facilities in parking ramps are under
development. Additional bike racks have been budgeted.
► Support of local bike events
Council members and City staff participated in and provided logistical support for
several events, including the Family Ride with Mayor Throgmorton and the Old Pi to
New Pi Ride. The City provided a $1,500 sponsorship of the events. Mayor Throg-
morton also issued a proclamation supporting Bike Month.
► Bill Nesper presentations
Bill Nesper, Program Director for the Bicycle -Friendly America for the League of
American Bicyclists, gave two presentations in spring of 2016: "Becoming a Bicycle -
Friendly Business" and "Bicycle -Friendly Communities." The talks were co-sponsored
by the cities of Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty, Johnson County, University
of Iowa Office of Sustainability, Iowa City Area Development Group, the Conven-
tion and Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, and other local organizations. The
events were held at the MERGE facility in the Iowa City Public Library building.
Promote environmontal sustainability
0
0 0 0
0
Page: 30
► Trail, street, and sidewalk improvements
Several upcoming capital improvements that support being a bike -friendly commu-
nity are planned, including the Highway 1 trail extension, Riverside Drive pedestrian
tunnel, and "road diets" on Mormon Trek, First Avenue, and Sycamore Street.
► Downtown traffic model
City Council reviewed and directed staff to pursue road diets on Clinton and Madi-
son Streets in Downtown Iowa City.
Evaluate and consider implementation of a
plastic bag policy
An implementation plan will be presented to Council in late 2016 with a proposed time-
line. Staff is reaching out to the business community and individual businesses for input as
the process is being refined.
Undertake
a project in
FY2017
that achieves a
significant
measurable
carbon
emission reduction
► AmeriCorps partnership
The energy audits of the City's public housing stock are underway. $70,000 of the
$100,000 Council budget for FY2017 will be used for conducting the audits and
making improvements identified as needs.
► Proposals for partnership
Proposals for the $30,000 that Council directed to be used in a partnership with
a local nonprofit will be considered in the FY2017 Community Development Block
Grant process in December of 2016.
• • • a Promote onvironmontal sustainability
•
• • •
• • •
Page: 31
Set a substantive and achievable goal for reducing
City-wide carbon emissions by 2030, and create an
ad-hoc climate change task force, potentially under
an umbrella STAR Communities committee, to devise
a cost-effective strategy for achieving the goal
► A request for proposals for facilitation services for the Climate Change Task Force is
being prepared. Council members Taylor and Cole will review the RFP and make a
recommendation. A subsequent resolution creating the Task Force will be considered
by Council.
Collaborate with community partners on
sustainability efforts
► STAR Community Rating
The City of Iowa City was awarded a 4 -STAR Community Rating for sustainability
excellence on Wednesday, March 9 by being formally certified in the STAR Com-
munity Rating SystemTM (STAR). The City's approved final score is 484.8, the highest -
scored city in the state. Iowa City is the fifth community in Iowa and 47th nationwide
to achieve certification from STAR, a nonprofit organization that certifies sustainable
communities. Other Iowa STAR communities are Charles City, Dubuque, Davenport
and Des Moines.
Information and data was gathered for the certification application throughout 2015
with the assistance of dozens of City staff members, community partners, state agen-
cies, local and regional governments, and private sector employers. Thank you to all
community partners that assisted the City in this effort, especially the Iowa City Area
Development Group, Iowa City Community School District, Johnson County and Uni-
versity of Iowa.
• • • a Promote onvironmontal sustainability
Page: 32
STAR WORKSHOP
A full-day STAR workshop was held for staff and facilitated by STAR representatives
at the Eastside Recycling Center.
STAR PUBLIC PRESENTATION
A public presentation of the STAR program was held at the Iowa City Public Library
for the public to learn about the program and to answer questions about the STAR
rating system.
► Electric vehicle charging stations
A request for proposals will be prepared jointly with the University of Iowa. It is
anticipated that charging stations will be installed in one or more parking facilities.
► Local food partnerships
Some examples of local food partnerships that have been completed in 2016 to help
promote environmental sustainability include:
EDIBLE CLASSROOM
The City partnered with Backyard Abundance, the State of Iowa Department of Ag-
riculture and others on the Edible Classroom project, which provides an educational
component for several classes offered by the Recreation Division.
DOUBLE UP FOOD BUCKS
The City, Johnson County, Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the federal Supple-
mental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have partnered to enable low-income
families to double the value of their SNAP dollars when purchasing Iowa -grown fruits
and vegetables at the Farmers Market.
IOWA CITY FARM TO STREET DINNER
Local food producers, restaurants and members of the community collaborated to
celebrate local foods and food initiatives over a community meal.
Promote onvironmontal sustainability
• • •
Page: 33
Other initiatives
Waste minimization strategies
Processes for multifamily building recycling, curbside composting, and an electronic
waste ban will be presented to Council in the fall of 2016.
► Local monarch conservation efforts
The wintering monarch population in Mexico has decreased more than 90%, due to
habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. Municipalities are taking steps to stem
the Monarch loss. Iowa City is committed to creating an environment that will allow
Monarchs to thrive and rehabilitate during the summer months. City initiatives include:
MILKWEED DISTRIBUTION
A key action in Iowa City is the planting of milkweed to help combat the declining
Monarch population. Monarchs lay their eggs in milkweed during the summer months.
When the caterpillars hatch, they eat the leaves. The City has planted its own milk-
weed, while also giving away common milkweed for people to plant in their own
yards and gardens to help feed the Monarchs.
MONARCH WAYSTATIONS
The City also supports monarch waystations that provide milkweed for monarchs at
Wetherby, Hickory Hill and Hunter's Run Parks as well as the Eastside Recycling Cen-
ter.
MAYOR'S MONARCH PLEDGE
Iowa City Mayor Jim Throgmorton signed the National Wildlife Federation's Mayors'
Monarch Pledge on Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2016 to help raise awareness about declin-
ing Monarch populations. This pledge indicates a commitment from the City to help
rehabilitate the Monarch population.
LOCAL MONARCH RESEARCH
A team of students from Cornell College in Mount Vernon is conducting research at
Waterworks Prairie Park to understand how prairies and Monarch butterflies interact.
Promote onvironmontal sustainability
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Dr. Tammy Mildenstein of Cornell has designed a research program to learn about
the relationship between prairies and Monarch reproductive success to provide man-
agers and caretakers of parks, prairies and other outdoor spaces with research find-
ings to increase suitability of milkweed populations for Monarch reproduction and
survival. With careful observation and thoughtful land stewardship, the team aims to
revitalize the iconic Monarch butterfly population.
IOWA CITY MONARCH FESTIVAL
The Iowa City Monarch Festival was held at the Eastside Recycling Center and in-
cluded several kids' activities, such as a Monarch scavenger hunt, a chrysalis give-
away, and information on how to raise caterpillars. The event was free and open to
the public.
More information on the City's Monarch efforts is available at icgov.org/ICMonarchs.
► Sustainability newsletter and social media presence
The "Sustainable Iowa City" newsletter was launched, providing information to the
public regarding a wide spectrum of sustainability issues from social justice initiatives
to energy-related programming. The newsletter is intended to broaden the aware-
ness of the City's initiatives and extend the opportunity for public involvement, ques-
tions, and suggestions.
► Covenant of Mayors
Mayor Throgmorton signed on to the Covenant of Mayors (formerly the Compact of
Mayors), the world's largest cooperative effort among mayors and city leaders to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The effort was launched at the 2014 United Na-
tions Climate Summit.
GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY
A greenhouse gas inventory is being compiled. This is a requirement of the Compact
of Mayors and will provide data by which to evaluate progress as emission reduction
initiatives are completed.
Promote environmontal sustainability
0 0 •
•
Big Bellies, the solar powered trash and recycling
compactors, have been extremely popular in
Downtown Iowa City.
Po ge: 35
► Emerald Ash Borer public events
Two public events were held in partnership with the Iowa State University Exten-
sion, Iowa Department of Agriculture, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources to
educate the public and professionals from the green industry on emerald ash borer
identification and responses.
► Big Bellies
Additional solar -powered trash and recycling compactors will be installed in Down-
town Iowa City. The evaluation of the initial units has been very positive, with low
contamination rates of recyclable materials.
► Craft Your Environment Fair
The Craft your Environment Fair was held at the Eastside Recycling Center. Dozens of
artists showed how recycled goods can be used to create art, home decor, and other
projects, keeping it out of the landfill. The fair was held in partnership with Friends of
Historic Preservation, Salvage Barn, and Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
► Million Gallon Challenge
Parks and Recreation staff gave themselves a "Million Gallon Challenge" this sum-
mer to conserve one million gallons of water. Between April 12 and September 1,
the combination of cooperative weather, a three-minute reduction in irrigation cycles,
removing some areas from irrigation plans, installing rain sensor irrigation equipment,
and efficiently monitoring systems resulted in a savings of 1,425,654 gallons of wa-
ter — 820,530 treated and 605,124 effluent. Staff expects this total to surpass 1.5
million gallons by the end of the season.
► Arbor Day partnership
Willowind School students planted a Skyline Locust tree provided by the Parks and
Forestry Division after an educational presentation and reading of the Arbor Day
proclamation.
• • • 7 Advance social justice and racial equity
Strategies to meet this goal:
Develop and implement a racial / socioeconomic equity review toolkit
Staff has initiated review of City procedures, policies, programs, and services using our new equity toolkit review process. Participating
departments in the first review are Police, Transit, Human Resources, Human Rights, Finance, and Neighborhood and Development Ser-
vices. Staff will present the results of the review in 2017.
Support the Housing First initiative and other local homeless efforts, including
the temporary winter shelter
► Council supported the Housing First/FUSE initiative, including financial support of $275,000 and adopting the necessary zoning code
amendments. The project will construct a facility that provides low -barrier housing for chronically homeless individuals. The zoning code
amendments were adopted on July 5, 2016.
Consider creating a Council committee with a focus on social justice and racial equity
Council considered this action at the April 5, 2016 work session and decided not to move forward with the committee as proposed. Con-
sideration of creating an ad-hoc committee on social justice and racial equity is on the Council's pending work session topic list.
Evaluate initiatives to effectively engage the community's youth
► Sports programs
Parks and Recreation staff created a program that ran for eight weeks in the spring of 2016 to teach basic American sport skills. It
was open to any youth who wished to attend, but was specifically marketed to members of the Sudanese community through community
leadership. A total of 77 youth participated. A similar program started in June 2016 that focused on basic swimming skills. The goal of
these programs is to help provide comfort levels with sports so that all children feel comfortable participating in existing sport associa-
tion programs.
Page: 36
Advance social justice and racial equity
Summer Fun Program — play ball!
Ensuring the Arts for
ANUVENCHILD
Page: 37
► Civil rights tour sponsorships
The City provided sponsorships for two youths to participate in the "Civil Rights and
Historically Black Colleges and Universities Tour," conducted by KoNec.
► Summer Fun Program
The "Summer Fun Program" was designed in cooperation with a coalition of non-
profits and community leaders to engage youth of color. The program served over 70
participants. A nightly meal was provided by the Iowa City Community School District
at no charge. Participants were given discounted bus passes by the City's Transporta-
tion Division. A Recreation Program Coordinator was hired by Parks and Recreation to
administer activities for youth between the ages of 12 to 18 for the summer months.
► Not a Box program
The Iowa City Public Library, along with other community organizations, started the
"Not a Box" parties for the summer months. These are family events planned for late
Saturday afternoons at parks that are located in neighborhoods designated as be-
ing low- to moderate -income. The program is focused on children ages 3 to 8. Not a
Box, a book by Antoinette Portis, is a story about imagination and creativity in which
a young rabbit's imagination frees him from the constraints that he has just a box.
► Any Given Child program
The "Any Given Child" arts program hired a program coordinator. Any Given Child is
a program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts which assists commu-
nities in providing equitable arts education for all students in grades K-8, regardless
of socioeconomic status. Support for the program that assists the Iowa City Community
School District is provided by the cities of Iowa City, Coralville, and North Liberty,
Hancher Auditorium, US Bank, and M.C. Ginsberg.
Advance social justice and racial equity
. . .
Page: 38
Identify and implement an achievable goal to
reduce disproportionality in arrests
► Traffic stop study
Dr. Chris Barnum of St. Ambrose University presented the data from his ongoing traf-
fic stop study in Iowa City to the City Council in April of 2016 and this analysis con-
tinues. Staff has engaged in the following events that will help inform the discussion.
COMMUNITY DISCUSSION ON CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM
City staff from Police and Human Rights participated in "Building a Foundation for
Criminal Justice Reform in Iowa." The community discussion focused on criminal justice
reform at the local level through individual, organizational, and community action.
The discussion and efforts will inform a broader event in 2017.
GARE SUPPORT
The City co-sponsored the "Local and Regional Government Alliance on Race and Eq-
uity (GARE) Midwest Convening on Racial Equity." This was a continuation of the City's
commitment to GARE, including recent staff training programs designed to deepen
employees' understanding of racial equity and to teach participants to apply this
learning to their work for the public. This work helps to operationalize the concepts
taught in the mandatory, all -staff "Diversity, Privilege, and Unconscious Bias" training
taught by Dr. Eddie Moore and Diane Finnerty.
Create a racial equity grant program
Design of the grant program has been completed. The application form will be available
on December 1, 2016 online and in hard copy. The Human Rights Commission will review
applications and make funding recommendations.
7 Advance social justice and racial equity
Develop a partnership with the University of Iowa and other key stakeholders
that will aid efforts to recruit and retain a greater minority workforce
► Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (HERC)
The City recently verbally committed to joining the Central Midwest Higher Education Recruitment Consortium, which is administered
through the University of Iowa. Diane Finnerty, Assistant Provost for Faculty at the University, is the Interim Director for the Central Midwest
HERC. Other members include Kirkwood Community College, University of Iowa, Coe College, Mount Mercy, Grinnell, and ICAD. Karen
Jennings is the City staff contact for this initiative.
► Workplace Revolution sponsorship
The City co-sponsored "Workplace Revolution," held at the Double Tree Hotel in downtown Cedar Rapids. The day -long event is designed
to assist in retention, recruitment and employee engagement. Topics included investing in workplace culture. Other sponsors were Diversity
Focus, the Iowa City Area Development Group and Kirkwood Community College.
► Youth academies
Youth academies for students interested in public service careers were held during the summer as a partnership between the Iowa City
Police and Fire Departments and Johnson County Ambulance Service. The academies were free to students and lunch was provided.
Identify a substantive and achievable goal for the provision of affordable housing
in Iowa City and implement strategies to achieve this goal
► Affordable HousingAction Plan
• At the June 21, 2016 work session, staff presented a summary of new and existing strategies for the provision of affordable housing,
potential funding sources, and recommendations for future action.
• The Housing and Community Development Commission, Affordable Housing Coalition, and the general public provided feedback on
the recommendations in the Action Plan.
• A public open house was held at the Iowa City Public Library on August 24, 2016 to solicit feedback from the public and answer
questions about the Action Plan.
Page: 39
Advance social justice and racial equity
Page: 40
• Council held a work session on September 20, 2016 to consider public input and
give staff direction on the Action Plan recommendations.
► Diamond Senior Apartments
The City Council approved City funding of $600,000 for the $7.4 million project that
will construct 36 affordable units for seniors and four market -rate units. The project
was also approved for Iowa Finance Authority funding of over $560,000. This proj-
ect meets a strong need of affordable senior housing and is located in a neighbor-
hood with access to services.
► Affordable Housing Conference
City staff from Neighborhood and Development Services, the Police Department and
the City Manager's Office attended the Affordable Housing Conference sponsored
by the Johnson County Affordable Homes Coalition. The event included several ses-
sions with differing topics but the overall takeaway was that affordable housing is an
engine of equity and growth.
Other initiatives and events
► Human Rights Ordinance
Recipients of Housing Choice Vouchers and similar rent subsidy programs were added
as a protected class in the City's Human Rights Ordinance. Discrimination by landlords
based on this source of income is prohibited. The Human Rights Commission's Fair
Housing Law brochures were updated to inform the public of this change and were
produced in multiple languages.
► Black History Month community events
A line-up of community events to celebrate and educate during Black History Month
was programmed through a collaborative effort of Neighborhood Centers of John-
son County, Black Voices Project, Dream Center, Iowa City Human Rights Commission,
Advance social justice and racial equity
Iowa City Police Department Community Outreach, United Action for Youth, City High - Gworld, New Creations International Church, and
Johnson County Social Services.
► Review of City job requirements
In an effort to expand the applicant pools for City employment, departments have reviewed minimum education requirements to ensure
that they are truly needed for the position or if reasonable skills and work experience can be substituted.
► Kingdom Center visit
Councilmembers and staff were invited to a luncheon at the Kingdom Center. Participants toured the facilities, learned about program-
ming and partner organizations including the Dream Center, and had a robust discussion of building bridges to have meaningful conver-
sations on difficult topics, de-escalation training, and the Crisis Intervention Team concept.
► Invest Health program
Iowa City was chosen to participate in the "Invest Health" program, a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and
Reinvestment Fund to support new strategies to improve neighborhoods facing the biggest barriers to better health. Iowa City was cho-
sen from a very competitive field. Safe, decent, affordable housing is a strong focus of the program. Iowa City's team is a partnership
between the City, University of Iowa Colleges of Medicine and Public Health, and the Housing Fellowship.
► Great Stories Club
The "Great Stories Club," a collaboration between Tate High School and the Iowa City Public Library, is sponsored through a grant from
the American Library Association. The Great Stories Club gives underserved youth facing significant challenges the opportunity to read,
reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them. This year's theme is, "The Art of Change: Creation, Growth and Transforma-
tion." Seventy-five sites are in this year's program, including two in Iowa City.
► Lunch and learn events
A series of "lunch and learn" events have been held for current City Board and Commission Members. The "Conversations on Diversity"
are facilitated by Professor Katrina Sanders of the University of Iowa College of Education.
Page: 41
r
TY IP4
CITY OF IOWA CI
MEMORANDUM
Date:
September 28, 2016
To:
Mayor and City Council
From:
Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
Re:
Joint Meeting Agenda Items for October 24
The next joint meeting with City Councils of Johnson County municipalities, the Johnson County
Board of Supervisors, the Iowa City School District and neighboring school districts will be held
on Monday, October 24, 2016. The meeting will be hosted by Johnson County.
Please come prepared to discuss agenda items you would like to include on that agenda at the
next Council work session on October 4.
A complete agenda and meeting date confirmation will be available in your packet preceding the
October 24`h joint meeting.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF OTERANRE
PENDING CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION TOPICS
September 29, 2016
Strategic Plan / Budget Related Topics:
1. Provide timely and appropriate input on the ICCSD's planned 2017 bond referendum
2. Significantly improve the Council and staff s ability to engage with diverse populations on complex or
controversial topics
3. Set a substantive and achievable goal for reducing city-wide carbon emissions by 2030, and create an ad-
hoc climate change task force, potentially under an umbrella STAR Communities committee, to devise a
cost-effective strategy for achieving the goal.
4. Identify and implement an achievable goal to reduce disproportionality in arrests
5. Identify a substantive and achievable goal for the provision of affordable housing in Iowa City and
implement strategies to achieve this goal
6. Determine scope of Council identified housing market analysis of core neighborhoods
7. Determine scope of Council identified complete streets study
Other Topics:
S. Discuss marijuana policies and potential legislative advocacy positions
9. Review the Child Data Snapshot (IP2 2/18) and discuss related strategies with local stakeholders
10. Discuss creation of an ad-hoc committee on social justice and racial equity
11. Continue 8/16 discussion on future actions concerning downtown development
I
.®�r CITY OF IOWA CITY �P6
�-'° snlw MEMORANDUM
Date:
September 28, 2016
To:
City Council
From:
Geoff Fruin, City Manager
Re:
Budget at -a -Glance Document
The City Council's strategic plan contains a goal to "significantly improve the Council and Staff's
ability to engage with diverse populations on complex or controversial topics". Staff is working
toward this goal on a number of fronts including expanding document translation and conducting
tax increment financing focus groups. The Mayor and City Council are also working toward this
goal through strategic listening posts and the new Mayor's Walks About Town initiative.
One topic area that we are aiming to improve our ability to communicate is the city budget. The
finance staff recently compiled a budget at -a -glance document to help convey a few key points
of the approved FY 17 budget. That document can be found online at
https://www.icgov.org/budget. Staff has already started the process of compiling the FY 18
budget, which will be presented to the City Council in January. As we go through this process
we will have more time to refine this at -a -glance document and broaden the appeal and
distribution to our diverse public.
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the content of this document please feel
free to contact me or Finance Director, Dennis Bockenstedt. For your convenience, a copy of
the document follows this memo.
City of Iowa City
FY2017 Budget At -a -Glance
July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017
Strategic Plan and the Budget
This Fiscal Year 2017 budget was prepared with a
strategic plan serving as a guide. In preparing the
budget, the City recognized the impact that
funding decisions would have on future progress
to the organization's stated priorities in the plan.
As a result, this budget aims to provide resources
that accomplish the following objectives:
5 Year Property Tax Rate History
$17.40
$17.20
517.00
$16.80
$16.60
$16.40
$16.20
$16.00 FY13 YY14 FY15 FY16 FY17
■ Tex Rate $17.27 $16.81 $16.71 $16.65 $16.58
Rollback 50.75% 52.82% 54.40% 55.73% 55.63%
The following are the strategic plan priorities and
initiatives that were adopted by the City Council
along with the Fiscal Year 2017 budget.
Strategic Plan Priorities
This Strategic Plan intends to foster a more
Inclusive, Just and Sustainable Iowa City.
1. Promote a Strong and Resilient Local
Economy
2. Encourage a Vibrant and Walkable Urban
Core
3. Foster Healthy Neighborhoods throughout
the City
4. Maintain a Solid Financial Foundation
5. Enhance Community Engagement and
Intergovernmental Relations
6. Promote Environmental Sustainability
7. Advance Social Justice and Racial Equity
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
1. Maintain the City's core municipal
Fiscal Year 2017 Budget Summary:
services at levels that meet or exceed
O Priorities determined by Strategic Plan
community expectations and the City
Council's strategic plan goals, and
O Budget guided by clear financial goals
2. Direct discretionary funding to projects
O Focused on a sustainable, multi-year
and initiatives that directly align with the
financial model
stated priorities of the Strategic Plan, and
O Adopted property tax levy rate,
3. Continue to strengthen the City's strong
$16.58 per $1,000 of taxable value
financial foundation and enhance the
• Rate decrease of $.07 from Fiscal
budget document through the
incorporation of best practices in the
Year 2016
industry.
• Fifth consecutive rate decrease
5 Year Property Tax Rate History
$17.40
$17.20
517.00
$16.80
$16.60
$16.40
$16.20
$16.00 FY13 YY14 FY15 FY16 FY17
■ Tex Rate $17.27 $16.81 $16.71 $16.65 $16.58
Rollback 50.75% 52.82% 54.40% 55.73% 55.63%
The following are the strategic plan priorities and
initiatives that were adopted by the City Council
along with the Fiscal Year 2017 budget.
Strategic Plan Priorities
This Strategic Plan intends to foster a more
Inclusive, Just and Sustainable Iowa City.
1. Promote a Strong and Resilient Local
Economy
2. Encourage a Vibrant and Walkable Urban
Core
3. Foster Healthy Neighborhoods throughout
the City
4. Maintain a Solid Financial Foundation
5. Enhance Community Engagement and
Intergovernmental Relations
6. Promote Environmental Sustainability
7. Advance Social Justice and Racial Equity
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
Maintaining a Solid Financial
Foundation
Preparation of the City budget was guided by the
City's four primary financial goals.
First, the City continues to respond to the State's
2013 property tax reforms. The estimated impact
over the first ten years is over $50 million in lost
revenue, with approximately $15 million eligible
to be backfilled by the state. The City has taken
steps to manage the impacts of tax reform, but
maintaining service levels will require prudent
decisions over the next several years. By
preparing for reform before the full financial
impacts are realized; the City will be able to shift
resources and adjust operations gradually,
avoiding abrupt service disruptions or steep tax
rate increases. It is also important to manage the
budget in a way that does not shift the entire
burden of tax reform to residential taxpayers.
Second, the budget attempts to establish
conditions that will enhance the community's
fiscal condition and ensure that it will maintain
its prestigious Moody's Aaa bond rating. Council
has adopted fund balance and debt policies
consistent with Moody's best practices and are
intended to preserve our top bond rating. Bond
ratings have real impacts on community well-
being; dollars used to make interest payments
compete with those used to provide important
services.
Third, the budget strives to maintain an
affordable tax and fee environment for residents
and businesses. We pursue efficient service
delivery, review fees annually, and maintain
adequate reserves in order to avoid severe,
immediate impacts to residents' household
finances. Maintaining a stable environment for
the controllable costs of doing business in our
Financial Goals
Continue to implement steps to respond to the
property tax shortfall resulting from 2013
legislative changes while maintaining
service levels.
Maintain the City's Moody's Aaa bond rating.
Maintain an affordable tax and fee
environment for residents and businesses.
Continue to achieve the GFOA Distinguished
Budget Award and Certificate of Achievement
for Excellence in Financial Reporting.
community helps to create an atmosphere
conducive to small business development.
Increased costs have a disproportionate impact on
new or family-owned businesses that may not
have the resources to weather a sharp uptick in
expenses.
Finally, we will attempt to continue to earn the
Government Financial Officers Association
(GFOA) Distinguished Budget Award and the
GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence
in Financial Reporting for the City's
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. These
awards are strong indicators of transparency and
accountability in financial reporting.
General Fund Highlights
The General Fund activities include the following
departments and activities:
The General Fund is the City's primary operating
fund and represents approximately 32% of the
City Council
Neighborhood & Development Services
total budget. A view of General Fund revenue
City Clerk
Parks & Recreation
sources can be viewed in the following pie chart.
City Attorney
library
City Manager
Senior Center
Finance
Public Works
FY2017 General Fund
Police
Transportation & Resource Management
Funding Sources
Fire
Administration
Chm. fm
Fne &
ome
On the expense side, General Fund operations
largely consist of personnel expenses. In the
FY2017 budget, 72% of General Fund
expenditures are personnel related. A view on
General Fund expenditures by category can be
viewed in the following pie chart.
FY2017 General Fund
Expenditures
u mgenry-
S.,Phn
3%
C -Fd -1
0 -thy
5%
Ochi
marcid
U.
I%
3
The General Fund FY2017 budget also
incorporates new programs and initiatives
intended to address the City Council's strategic
plan priorities, including those that meet
sustainability, inclusivity, and social justice goals.
Items of note in the General Fund budget
include:
• Funding for an intern in the Sustainability
Office and increased hours for part-time
historic preservation staff.
• Increased funding for nonprofit agencies
through the Human Rights Office and the
creation of an Iowa City social service
endowment fund with the Community
Foundation of Johnson County.
• An update to the Parks & Recreation Master
Plan.
• Business incentives to positively affect
employment opportunities for persons of
color and youths.
• Enhanced street tree planting program.
• Funding for a full-time police Community
Outreach (CSO) position.
Debt Service Fund Highlights
The State of Iowa limits City debt to no more than
5% of the total assessed value of taxable property
within the corporate limits as established by the
City Assessor. The budget anticipates an
outstanding debt of $58.96 million at FY2O17 year
end, which is 1.1% of total valuations and well
below the State of Iowa threshold. Considering
these figures, Iowa City is carrying debt equal to
roughly 22.0% of the allowable level. The
following chart provides a historical view of Iowa
City's debt in relation to the allowable debt level.
General Obligation Debt by Fiscal Year
300,000.000
25Q000,000
200,000,000
15Q000,000 ■ Debt Limit
(5% of
Total
1001(01000 Property
Val.)
50,000,000
0
4e 11 r°a F`'ti F`'� itis �`�s��b•c�,^� t�,ro
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
Highlights
The capital budget for FY2017 totals $39,845,520
and the five year CIP totals $175,580,892. The
majority of CIP projects in the plan improve the
local transportation network and municipal utility
system. The five year CIP plan continues to
reflect the City Council's strategic priorities.
Examples of significant projects planned for the
coming fiscal years include:
Flood Recovery and Mitigation:
0 Gateway project - $53.4 million
Critical Infrastructure Need / Committed Projects:
• Annual Pavement Rehab - $7.5 million
• Washington St. Reconstruct - $5.3 million
• American Legion Rd. - Scott to Taft - $7.8
million
• Annual Sewer Main replace - $2.5 million
• Mormon Trek and Benton
Intersection/Road Diet - $1.2 million
Strategic Economic Development Activities:
• Towncrest Area Redevelop - $0.6 million
• Riverfront park - $1.0 million
A Strong Urban Core:
• First Ave RR Underpass - $4.5 million
• Parking facility restoration - $1.4 million
• Riverside Dr. ped tunnel - $1.5 million
• Burlington/Madison intersection - $2.3
million & Burlington/Clinton intersection -
$1.1 million
• Black Hawk Mini Park/Ped Mall - $2.3
million
• East/West Wing Ped Mall Reconstruction -
$4.2 million
Healthy Neighborhoods:
• Complete Streets Projects - $1.2 million
• Elementary school recreation facility
partnership - $0.8 million
• Neighborhood park improvements:
Frauenholtz-Miller, Pheasant Hill,
Creekside, Highland
For more information about the Iowa City
budget you can find the full budget
document and historical budget documents
at httns: //wwwAcgov.ore/budeet
From the City Manager I IP7
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT TOOLKIT
September 2016
Contents
Executive Summary ........................
I. Introduction .............................................
............................................................................................. 2
ki
II. Prevalence of Local Barriers to Housing Development................................................................... 5
III. Effects of Local Barriers to Housing Development......................................................................... 6
IV. Framework for Modern Housing Strategies................................................................................. 13
V. Toolkit — Taking Action..................................................................................................................... 14
FI
Executive Summary
Over the past three decades, local barriers to housing development have intensified, particularly
in the high-growth metropolitan areas increasingly fueling the national economy. The
accumulation of such barriers — including zoning, other land use regulations, and lengthy
development approval processes — has reduced the ability of many housing markets to respond to
growing demand. The growing severity of undersupplied housing markets is jeopardizing
housing affordability for working families, increasing income inequality by reducing less -skilled
workers' access to high -wage labor markets, and stifling GDP growth by driving labor migration
away from the most productive regions. By modernizing their approaches to housing
development regulation, states and localities can restrain unchecked housing cost growth, protect
homeowners, and strengthen their economies.
Locally -constructed barriers to new housing development include beneficial environmental
protections, but also laws plainly designed to exclude multifamily or affordable housing. Local
policies acting as barriers to housing supply include land use restrictions that make developable
land much more costly than it is inherently, zoning restrictions, off-street parking requirements,
arbitrary or antiquated preservation regulations, residential conversion restrictions, and
unnecessarily slow permitting processes. The accumulation of these barriers has reduced the
ability of many housing markets to respond to growing demand.
Accumulated barriers to housing development can result in significant costs to households,
local economies, and the environment.
• Housing production has not been able to keep up with demand in many localities,
impacting construction and other related jobs, limiting the requisite growth in population
needed to sustain economic growth, and limiting potential tax revenue gains.
• Barriers to housing development are exacerbating the housing affordability crisis,
particularly in regions with high job growth and few rental vacancies.
• Significant barriers to new housing development can cause working families to be pushed
out of the job markets with the best opportunities for them, or prevent them from moving
to regions with higher -paying jobs and stronger career tracks. Excessive barriers to
housing development result in increasing drag on national economic growth and
exacerbate income inequality.
• When new housing development is limited region -wide, and particularly precluded in
neighborhoods with political capital to implement even stricter local barriers, the new
housing that does get built tends to be disproportionally concentrated in low-income
communities of color, causing displacement and concerns of gentrification in those
neighborhoods. Rising rents region -wide can exacerbate that displacement.
• The long commutes that result from workers seeking out affordable housing far from job
centers place a drain on their families, their physical and mental well-being, and
negatively impact the environment through increased gas emissions.
• When rental and production costs go up, the cost of each unit of housing with public
assistance increases, putting a strain on already -insufficient public resources for
affordable housing, and causing existing programs to serve fewer households.
Modernized housing regulation comes with significant benefits.
• Housing regulation that allows supply to respond elastically to demand helps cities
protect homeowners and home values while maintaining housing affordability.
• Regions are better able to compete in the modern economy when their housing
development is allowed to meet local needs.
• Smart housing regulation optimizes transportation system use, reduces commute times,
and increases use of public transit, biking and walking.
• Modern approaches to zoning can also reduce economic and racial segregation, as recent
research shows that strict land use regulations drive income segregation of wealthy
residents.
Cities and states across the country are interested in revising their often 1970s -era zoning codes
and housing permitting processes, and increasingly recognize that updating local land use
policies could lead to more new housing construction, better leveraging of limited financial
resources, and increased connectivity between housing to transportation, jobs and amenities.
This toolkit highlights actions that states and local jurisdictions have taken to promote
healthy, responsive, affordable, high -opportunity housing markets, including:
• Establishingby-right development
• Taxing vacant land or donate it to non-profit developers
• Streamlining or shortening permitting processes and timelines
• Eliminate off-street parking requirements
• Allowing accessory dwelling units
• Establishing density bonuses
• Enacting high-density and multifamily zoning
• Employing inclusionary zoning
• Establishing development tax or value capture incentives
• Using property tax abatements
"We can work together to break down rules that stand in the way of building new housing and
that keep families from moving to growing, dynamic cities. "
-- President Obama, remarks to the U.S. Conference of Mayors, January 21, 2016
A stable, functioning housing market is vital to our nation's economic strength and resilience.
Businesses rely on responsive housing markets to facilitate growth and employee recruitment.
Construction workers, contractors, and realtors depend on stable housing markets to fuel their
careers. And the availability of quality, affordable housing is foundational for every family — it
determines which jobs they can access, which schools their children can attend, and how much
time they can spend together at the end of a day's commutes.
Our nation's housing market was in crisis when President Obama took office. In the first quarter
of 2009, national home prices had fallen roughly 20 percent since mid -2005, leaving nearly 13
million households underwater. Today, the market nationwide has made tremendous strides, as
the recovery helped households regain $6.3 trillion of the real estate equity lost during the
recession and lifted 7.4 million households out of negative equity since 2011, more than cutting
in half the number of homeowners underwater.
This national recovery, while central to our broader economic recovery, has occurred during a
period of increasing awareness of underlying regional challenges in housing markets. The
recovery has been measured in home and property values but new production starts have not kept
pace with historic levels we saw before the recession. In a growing number of metropolitan
areas, the returning health of the housing market and vibrant job growth haven't led to resurgent
construction industries and expanding housing options for working families, due to state and
local rules inhibiting new housing development that have proliferated in recent decades. In such
regions, these rules have resulted in undersupplied markets, reducing options for working
families and causing housing costs to grow much faster than wages and salaries. And as
Matthew Desmond recently documented in Evicted, families facing extreme rent burden often
suffer lasting trauma resulting from their housing insecurity, destabilizing their lives and marring
their prospects for upward economic mobility.
As fewer families have been able to find affordable housing in the regions with the best jobs for
them, labor mobility has slowed, exacerbating income inequality and stifling our national
economic growth. But this hasn't happened everywhere. In more and more regions across the
country, local and neighborhood leaders have said yes, in our backyard, we need to break down
the rules that stand in the way of building new housing — because we want new development to
replace vacant lots and rundown zombie properties, we want our children to be able to afford
their first home, we want hardworking families to be able to take the next job on their ladder of
opportunity, and we want our community to be part of the solution in reducing income inequality
and growing the economy nationwide.
This toolkit highlights the steps those communities have taken to modernize their housing
strategies and expand options and opportunities for hardworking families.
4
Prevalence of Local Barriers to Housing Development
Over the past three decades, local barriers to housing development have intensified, particularly
in the high-growth metropolitan areas increasingly fueling the national economy. Locally -
constructed barriers to new housing development include beneficial environmental protections or
well-intentioned permitting processes or historic preservation rules, but also laws plainly
designed to exclude multifamily or affordable housing. Local policies acting as barriers to
housing supply include land use restrictions that make developable land much more costly than it
is inherently, zoning restrictions, off-street parking requirements, arbitrary or antiquated
preservation regulations, residential conversion restrictions, and unnecessarily slow permitting
processes.
Though no comprehensive and uniform measure for such barriers exists, given the wide range of
local regulations and processes affecting housing development volumes and timelines, several
national and local indicators support the observations of housing researchers and practitioners
that such barriers have tightened. Researchers examining proxy measures — including the
prevalence of zoning and land use cases in state courts, which correlate strongly with static
indices of housing barriers and supply constraint surveys — have found that barriers to housing
development increased rapidly from 1970 to 1990, and continue to increase through the present
day.2 Researchers have also documented a sharp increase in the gap between home prices and
construction costs, with stringent housing regulations now driving cost increases previously
shaped by construction costs and quality improvements " Localized studies have supported
these national conclusions — documenting sharp increases in zoning and other land use
restrictions in metropolitan Boston,' New York City,' Los Angeles,' and San Francisco.'
Real Construction Costs and House Prices Over Time
Index, 1980=100
250
220
190
160
130
100
70
2013
Real House Prices
Real Construction Costs
1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008 2012
Source: Gyourko, Malloy (2015)
Barriers to housing development are erected largely at the local level, and vary widely across
states and metropolitan areas as a result. But the intensity and impact of such barriers are most
evident in the vibrant job -generating regions where fervent demand far outstrips supply. Though
popular coverage of these challenges has been most focused on the Bay Area, Seattle, and major
East Coast cities, Los Angeles provides a clear illustration of the impact of the primary barrier to
development — restrictive zoning. In 1960, Los Angeles was zoned to accommodate 10 million
people; after decades of population growth and increased demand, the city is today zoned for
only 4.3 million people.' As Los Angeles leaders face a housing affordability and homelessness
crisis, Mayor Garcetti and members of the City Council have tackled this problem by endorsing
state plans to increase development and pushing for updated city plans and approval processes to
facilitate new housing construction, in addition to committing new city funds toward affordable
housing.
10 m1111on
9 rmnan
smNbn
1 m111bn
6 m111bn
5M11*"
1 m1111on
3 mi]W
2 mn
I"W"
Los Angeles—Zoned Residential Capacity Over Time
opllwon P.Ay
1980 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010
Source: Momw (2016)
The vast majority of the nation's largest cities are feeling the crush of sharply increased housing
costs outpacing wages, with 9 of the largest 11 cities seeing rising rents and tightening vacancy
rates, but this problem is now being felt in smaller cities and non -coastal locations that have
historically enjoyed the benefits that come with an adequate supply of housing affordable to low -
and moderate -income families. Growing, dynamic cities like Atlanta, Denver, and Nashville
used to be able to tout housing affordability as a key asset — but now see rents rising above the
reach of many working families.10 Inland cities have experienced some of the largest increases in
rent in recent years, despite lacking the topological space constraints faced by coastal cities.
Effects of Local Barriers to Housing Development
The accumulation of state and local barriers to housing development — including zoning, other
land use regulations, and unnecessarily lengthy development approval processes — has reduced
the ability of many housing markets to respond to growing demand. The increasing severity of
undersupplied housing markets is jeopardizing housing affordability for working families,
exacerbating income inequality by reducing workers' access to higher -wage labor markets, and
stifling GDP growth by driving labor migration away from the most productive regions.
These effects are increasingly visible in communities nationwide. In just the last 10 years, the
number of very low-income renters paying more than half their income for rent has increased by
almost 2.5 million households, to 7.7 million nationwide, in part because barriers to housing
development are limiting housing supply.' ` Since 1960, the share of renters paying more than 30
percent of their income for rent has more than doubled from 24 percent to 49 percent. 12 And over
that time, real household income increased by 18 percent, but inflation adjusted rents rose by 64
percent.
Median rents vs. median household income, 1980-2014
Indexed: 1980= 100
150
140
130
120
110
100
90
Household income —Rents
2014
1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010
Source: Census Bureau; BLS; Haver; CEA calculations
Emerging research has shown that in areas with high-cost housing such as California, zoning and
other land -use controls contribute significantly to recent sharp cost increases, reflecting the
increasing difficulty of obtaining regulatory approval for building new homes.13
Not all barriers to housing development have negative impacts — local land use policies and
regulations can increase the supply of well -located affordable housing, address externalities such
as environmental impacts associated with development, create better connections between
housing options accessible to transit, and support the fiscal health of states and localities. But the
accumulation of even well-intentioned land -use policies can restrict housing availability; create
uncertainty for developers and limit private investment; exacerbate the imbalance between jobs
and housing; and induce urban sprawl.
Costs and negative impacts of excessive barriers to housing development
Housing production has failed to expand in too many regions with strong demand, artificially
depressing the availability of construction and related jobs, limiting the ability for local
populations to expand in response to job growth, and reducing the potential for increased local
tax revenue. In these regions, new market -rate construction shifts toward predominantly, and
sometimes exclusively, larger or higher -end units as a manifestation of supply constraints,
because when there are large fixed costs to building, as is the case when land use policies are
onerous, even developers that aren't profit -maximizing find it difficult to make profits from
smaller or more affordable units.
Barriers to housing development are exacerbating the housing affordability crisis, particularly
in vibrant regions with high job growth and few rental vacancies. 14,11,11 The most recent data
shows that half of renters pay more than 30 percent of their income in rent,17 and more than 1 in
4 are severely rent -burdened, paying more than 50 percent of their income in rent. 18 For families
working to buy their first home, rent burdens delay their plans, making it more difficult to save
for a down payment. While the housing market recovery has meant growing home values for
existing homeowners, barriers to development concentrate those gains among existing
homeowners, pushing the costs of ownership out of reach for too many first-time buyers. This
has contributed to a lower homeownership rate in the US, which has fallen to its lowest level in
50 years.t9 Homelessness is on the rise in some of our nation's most rent -burdened cities despite
continued decreases in homelessness nationwide — for example, according to figures released by
local homelessness coalitions, Washington, D.C. saw a 31 percent increase in family
homelessness last year amid a 14 percent increase in homelessness overall, and homelessness
grew by 6 percent in Seattle and Los Angeles.
Increasingly, working families are pushed out of the job markets with the best opportunities for
them, or can't afford to move to regions with higher -paying jobs and stronger career tracks. As
Jason Furman recently discussed in a National Press Club speech, this phenomenon exacerbates
income inequality. For the first time in over 100 years, income convergence across states has
stopped, as population flows to wealthier regions has decreased — which researchers attribute to
increased housing prices as a result of high local barriers to housing development.20 Where
housing markets are able to respond more elastically, workers can shift to meet job and wage
growth through relocation, reducing income inequality.
When large flows of workers are unable to move to the jobs where they would be most
productive, local barriers result in increasing drag on national economic growth. A recent
study noted that in theoretical models of mobility, economic research suggests our Gross
Domestic Product would have been more than 10 percent higher in 2009 if workers and capital
had freely moved so that the relative wage distribution remained at its 1964 level.21 Most of this
loss in wages and productivity is caused by increased constraints to housing supply in high -
productivity regions, including zoning regulations and other local rules. This estimate is
tentative, and would imply that some cities would see counterfactual employment increases of a
significant magnitude resulting from reduced housing restrictions, but the underlying point is
clear: output is lost when the supply of workers to high -productivity regions is restrained. Over
time, this effect can be large enough to meaningfully reduce the nation's overall economic
output.
1]
When new housing development is limited region -wide, and particularly precluded in
neighborhoods with political capital to implement even stricter local barriers, any new
development tends to be disproportionally concentrated in low-income communities of color,
causing displacement and concerns of gentrification in those neighborhoods, raising market
rents within neighborhoods experiencing rapid changes while failing to reduce housing cost
growth region-wide.22 As rents rise region -wide in response to insufficient housing supply, this
displacement is exacerbated. Lowered region -wide barriers to new housing development would
lead to more equitable distribution, allowing neighborhoods to retain character and resources as
they evolve, while facilitating effective affordable housing preservation options by preventing
excessively rapid change that generates displacement and dislocation.
As workers get pushed further and further from job centers — driving from Modesto to San
Francisco, for example, often two hours each way — excessively long commutes pull them away
from time with their families, increase strains on mental health and happiness, and contributing
to further greenhouse gas emissions. 23,24,25,26 The impact of these strains is being felt throughout
the middle class, hurting workers that provide critical services like teachers, police officers and
firefighters. For example, recent reports highlighted at least a dozen San Jose police officers
living in RVs in a parking lot near Police Department headquarters to cope with the long
commutes required by the lack of affordable housing nearby. 27
When barriers to housing development drive up rental and production costs, they constitute a
countervailing force on housing assistance programs, reducing the impact of already -insufficient
government resources for affordable housing. This strain on public resources occurs at all
levels — federal, state and local. While President Obama's budget calls for increasing
investments to provide affordable housing and end family homelessness, HUD's existing project -
based and housing choice vouchers could serve more families if the per-unit cost wasn't pushed
higher and higher by rents rising in the face of barriers to new development. In order to build
affordable housing, developers are often forced to supplement funding sources like tax credits
with additional equities and loans, drawing down on state -allocated housing finance agency
resources and city -held CDBG dollars. As each of these sources is piled onto a critical affordable
housing resource, it is not available for preservation or additional new affordable housing
elsewhere in the region.
Benefits of smart housing regulation
Housing regulation that allow supply to respond elastically to demand helps cities protect
homeowners and home values while maintaining housing affordability. As cities make
investments to attract residents and businesses, vibrant hubs of jobs and culture have attracted far
more potential residents than many cities' current zoning practices can accommodate. Without
building adequate housing to meet the increased demand, cities that have invested in services for
their residents see rents soar, making those benefits inaccessible to those they were intended to
help. By allowing housing development to respond to demand, cities would capture the increased
tax revenue they hope to draw by attracting more residents, and relieve pressure on existing
working families that would otherwise be priced out of their communities and forced to move.
Regions are better able to compete in the contemporary economy when their housing
development is allowed to meet local needs. When jobs and people move freely, local economies
flourish, as adequate housing development reduces mismatches between housing and
infrastructure, or housing and jobs. For decades, Sunbelt cities with more permeable boundaries
have enjoyed outsized growth by allowing sprawl to meet their need for adequate housing
supply. Space constrained cities can achieve similar gains, however, by building up with infill,
reducing the eyesores of vacant lots and vacant or rundown buildings that go undeveloped in
highly constrained regulatory environments. This approach facilitates cities expanding their
economies across all sectors, including the essential service sector jobs that allow cities to
remain attractive, rather than concentrating growth at the high end of the economy.
Smart housing regulation optimizes transportation system use, reduces commute times, and
increases use of public transit, biking and walking. A preponderance of a metro area's
commuters living far from work in pursuit of affordable housing prevents infrastructure,
including public transit, from being used efficiently and effectively. Smart housing regulation
would close the gap between proximity and affordability. More residents with access to walking,
biking and public transit options also means less congestion on the roads and overall reductions
in traffic congestion, greenhouse gas emissions, and commute times.
Modem approaches to zoning can also reduce economic and racial segregation, as recent
research shows that strict land use regulations drive income segregation of wealthy residents.28
Inclusionary zoning laws that facilitate working families accessing high -opportunity
neighborhoods are effective in reducing segregation and improving educational outcomes for
students in low-income families. 29 Research also finds that more localized pressure to regulate
land use is linked to higher rates of income segregation, while more state involvement in setting
standards and baselines for land use is connected to lower income segregation, reinforcing to the
key role that states can play in ensuring access to affordable housing is an even playing field for
all residents. 30
10
Spotlight: Local Barriers and Housing Discrimination
In tight rental markets, renters flood landlords advertising quality, affordable housing. The
stronger the local barriers to development, and the tighter the market, the higher the demand for
units. High demand often reflects quality housing options; however, when rental supply is
unresponsive to demand, competition can be high for even low -quality units. In such situations,
it can be extremely difficult for low-income families to find the quality affordable housing they
need, even when they receive a HUD Housing Choice Voucher to aid them with their rent —
because some landlords simply refuse to rent to voucher -holders, a practice particularly jarring to
the thousands of families struggling to escape homelessness through use of a housing voucher.
Federal fair housing law explicitly prohibits landlords from discriminating against renters on the
basis of race, religion, familial status or other protected classes. But many states and localities
consider discrimination on the basis of voucher payment for rent to be legal in the absence of
explicit source -of -income protections. Available evidence indicates that renter discrimination is
widespread, and most harmful in high -barrier rental markets with limited housing options for
families receiving rental assistance, hindering efforts to enable more low-income families to
access affordable housing in opportunity -rich neighborhoods.
Discrimination against voucher holders is prevalent nationwide, especially in high-cost markets,
and remains prevalent even in the 13 states and dozens of localities that have made such
discrimination explicitly illegal. Though cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh have
these laws in place, local investigative reporting has documented high rates of ongoing, illegal
renter discrimination. For example, landlords post "no Section 8" tags on sites like Craigslist.org,
especially for units in relatively low -poverty areas where constraints to housing development are
often highest. The rarely -enforced fine for this violation in Chicago is $500.
Renter discrimination reduces voucher success rates, limiting low-income households' housing
options in general, and particularly their ability to move to high -opportunity neighborhoods. The
Administration's actions to increase economic mobility, reduce local barriers to housing
development, advance fair housing, end homelessness, and expand access to opportunity depend
in part on the ability of low-income families to lease units in neighborhoods of their choosing.
Barriers to housing development that prevent supply from responding elastically to demand put
additional pressure on landlords and the rental market. Discrimination, even inadvertent
discrimination, increases when market conditions increase competition among renters.
Unsurprisingly, many cities with the highest local barriers have seen increases in homelessness
in recent years, while nationwide homelessness has been sharply in decline.
Vouchers are a critical tool for meeting the Administration's goals of ending veteran, chronic,
and family homelessness. The President's historic FY 2017 budget proposal to end homelessness
by 2020 for every family with children nationwide would invest $11 billion over 10 years,
primarily in vouchers, to end families' homelessness, stabilize their housing, and give them a
foundation to succeed economically. These goals will be easier to achieve if local leaders reduce
barriers to housing development and end renter discrimination in their jurisdictions.
11
Framework for Modern Housing Strategies
Cities across the country are interested in revising their often 1950s -era zoning codes and
housing permitting processes, and increasingly recognize that updating local land use policies
could lead to more new housing construction, better leveraging of limited financial resources,
and increased connectivity between housing to transportation, jobs and amenities. The
President's FY 2017 HUD budget includes a $300 million proposal for Local Housing Policy
Grants to help facilitate those cities' success in modernizing their housing regulatory approaches.
In markets with high demand but currently inelastic supply, these modem housing approaches
are likely to lead to more new housing construction, including multifamily rental construction.
Though much of that housing would likely be market -rate housing, its introduction into the
marketplace would help slow cost growth in existing and otherwise affordable housing. In
markets that have not yet but are poised to experience rapid economic growth in the near to mid-
term (e.g., as result of their advantageous location, emerging industrial growth, or surge in
resource extraction), promising practices can be embedded into local action as they develop their
economic growth strategy to ensure that sustained economic growth is achieved.
The Administration has also taken action to reinforce these practices, as the Department of
Transportation now examines cities' housing regulatory approaches, and their ability to respond
elastically to new demand generated by transit projects, as part of their Small Starts and New
Starts project reviews.
Cities like Chicago, Seattle, Sacramento, and Tacoma and states like California and
Massachusetts have already begun to foster more affordable housing opportunities by removing
restrictions, implementing transit -oriented zoning ordinances, and speeding up permitting and
construction processes.
Role of states and localities
Both states and cities have proven they can break free of the constraints that have stifled
responsive supply and driven up housing costs across the country. While most states have
devolved land use control to localities and remain relatively hands-off when it comes to land use
planning, a number of states have begun to take a more active role in reducing regulatory
barriers. A strong baseline at the state level creates an even playing field for local land use
decisions.
Cities and other localities have the greatest opportunity to innovate in efforts to reduce barriers to
housing supply, given their proximity to the effects of either a constrained or flexible supply.
Without action, excessive local barriers drive up housing costs, undermining affordable housing
at most income levels, and resulting in declines in homeownership. Demonstrated success in
addressing these challenges can help overcome apprehension about neighborhoods evolving and
growing through new development.
12
Spotlight: Impacts on the Ground
"As the head of EMPath, a Boston-based non-profit, that helps low-income families move out of
poverty, one of the greatest hurdles my staff and participants face is finding affordable housing.
When we first start working with our participants, many of them are homeless and trying to
make their way from emergency shelters into permanent housing. Affordable housing in Greater
Boston is in such short supply, and the costs are so high that, at their average wages ($10/hr),
participants have to work 97 hours a week in order to afford the Fair Market rent on a one -
bedroom apartment. If they seek lower cost housing outside of Boston, moving often rips apart
the work, childcare, and support systems they count on to maintain their precarious family and
financial stability.
And my staff experience similar problems. Pay at my organization is far from minimum wage.
The average employee at EMPath has a Bachelor's degree and makes about $26/hour. But even
at this level, it is hard for staff to find affordable housing in the city and many of them move as
much as 25+ miles away in order lower housing costs. When they do this, they add hours of
commuting to their work week and easily spend $360+/month for their monthly transit passes.
We routinely have to alter work schedules and the offices where our staff work in order to
accommodate their commuting needs.
As can be seen from all of this, high housing costs create a drag on everything we are trying to
do: stabilize people's lives, decrease their dependence on public supports, get them into the
workforce, and run our non-profit business. It is fundamentally important to address this issue if
we are going to succeed in improving our economy and opportunity for low and middle income
workers."
Elisabeth Babcock
President and CEO
EMPath — Economic Mobility Pathways
Boston, MA
13
Toolkit — Taking Action
This toolkit highlights actions taken by states and local jurisdictions to promote healthy,
responsive, high -opportunity housing markets, despite the common and sometimes challenging
political barriers to reform and improvement. This list is not exhaustive — there is a substantial
amount of good work being done all around the country — but provides several potential starting
points for local efforts to modernize housing planning and development.
1. Establish by -right development
Most development today goes through a discretionary review process prior to approval, such
as public hearings or local legislative actions. These processes predispose development
decisions to become centers of controversy, and can add significant costs to the overall
development budget due to the delay and uncertainty they engender. The tradeoffs that
developers make to account for those additional costs can result in lost affordability, quality,
or quantity of units developed. "As -of -right" or "by -right" development allows projects to be
approved administratively when proposals meet local zoning requirements.31 Such
streamlining allows for greater certainty and more efficient development and, depending on a
locality's regulatory approach, supports lessening of barriers from density limits and other
zoning requirements. It can also be targeted to achieve public goals by making "by -right"
approval contingent on increased affordable housing, transit -oriented development, or energy
efficiency.
A 2014 report by the Urban Land Institute concludes that "municipalities can facilitate more
efficient development time frames and reduce costs by enabling more by -right development.
This can be accomplished by relaxing restrictions related to density, building height, unit
size, and parking minimums, thereby freeing developers from the need to seek waivers,
variances, or rezoning." 32
Some states have enacted or pursued these approaches in efforts to facilitate affordable
housing development. In California, Gov. Jerry Brown recently proposed a policy that would
ensure that new developments that conform with existing local zoning rules and include set -
asides for affordable housing would be approved "by right" — as long as the project is not
located on sensitive sites, such as wetlands, farmland, flood plains, and earthquake fault
zones, additional discretionary review requirements would be no longer be required,
facilitating more rapid development of affordable housing at lower costs.
States can also encourage localities to allow by -right development. For instance,
Massachusetts allows communities to designate areas as Priority Development Sites, a
designation that provides an incentive for municipalities to allow by -right development in
localities where they seek to encourage economic growth.33
Fairfax County, VA, has implemented by -right development in seven districts, with the goal
of encouraging economic development through flexibility in zoning regulations and
administrative processes in older commercial areas. These more flexible zoning regulations
14
include 40-50 foot increases in building height, parking requirement reductions, and
abbreviated fees and approval processes for development changes. 34
2. Tax vacant land or donate it to non-profit developers
Nationwide, the number of vacant residential units increased from 7 million in 2000 to 10
million in 2014 35 Vacant and abandoned properties not only represent lost housing
opportunities, but can cause significant harm to the surrounding neighborhood. Strategies to
address these properties can reduce blight and place them back into productive use. In -fill
development can have significant environmental benefits, as well -resourced urban land can
be accessed by more people and can also result in larger ridership for public transit when in
proximity to city centers. A 2014 study found that in the Cleveland area, the sale price of
homes within 500 feet of a vacant property depreciated by 1.7 percent in low -poverty areas
and 2.1 percent in medium -poverty areas,36 while a 2010 University of Pittsburgh study
concluded that the rate of violent crime within 250 feet of a vacant property is 15% higher
than that within 250 and 353 feet from the property. ' Local governments bear the costs of
these vacant properties. A 2010 study found that Philadelphia spends more than $20 million
annually to maintain 40,000 vacant properties, which cost the city over $5 million per year in
lost tax revenue 38.
Localities often face challenges in identifying vacant properties,39 but many jurisdictions
have enacted vacant property registration ordinances that require individuals to register
vacant land and often pay a fee, with cities in Florida, California, Illinois and Michigan
leading the way in implementation. Many localities in these states increase the fees the
longer a property remains vacant, which encourages lot owners to put their properties to
more productive use, such as redevelopment .40 Once vacant property has been identified,
jurisdictions are able to take action to combat the lost revenue and blight that come with
vacant property by taxing vacant land or donating to non-profit developers.
At the city level, Dallas has addressed vacant property through a land bank, a "government -
created nonprofit corporation designed to convert tax -delinquent and vacant properties into
affordable housing or other productive uses,"41 which provides "a tool to enable cities to
more effectively... pursue tax foreclosure on unproductive vacant properties in return
for... placement into productive use in the development of affordable housing."42 Dallas also
acquires vacant lots for affordable single-family housing development, and allows nonprofit
groups to develop affordable housing by purchasing foreclosed vacant lots or surplus vacant
lots from the city's inventory at below market price, enabling Dallas to reduce the blight of
vacant lots and foster more affordable housing development .43
3. Streamline or shorten permitting processes and timelines
Permitting processes can introduce yet another source of cost and uncertainty in the effort to
increase housing supply through production. Unnecessarily lengthy permitting processes
restrict long -run housing supply responsiveness to demand, and also present an inefficiency
for city planners and reviewers whose time could be more effectively spent on essential
15
tasks. Most localities' permitting processes do not fully leverage new technology to achieve
greater speed, reliability and efficiency. ,
San Diego and Austin are two of many cities that have tackled these challenges, streamlining
and shortening their permitting processes. San Diego's Expedite Program allows for
expedited permit processing for eligible affordable/in-fill housing and sustainable building
projects, with a 5 business day initial review.' hi 2000, the Austin City Council created the
S.M.A.R.T. Housing program which offers developers of housing that serves low-income
families waivers for development fees and expedited development review; since 2005, more
than 4,900 housing units have been completed through this approach.
States have also taken action, with both Rhode Island and Massachusetts driving localities
toward more streamlined processes. The Rhode Island 2009 Expedited Permitting for
Affordable Housing Act provides state permitting agencies with strict deadlines for making
their decisions, for transit -oriented, dense, or historic preservation projects that are large
enough to meaningfully increase availability of affordable housing in their communities.
Massachusetts developed a model set of local permitting practices, with guidelines including
predictable impact fees, use of objective criteria for by -right zoning, and uniform timelines.
By incentivizing efficient permit processing at the state and local level, communities are
better positioned to accelerate development, resulting in increased housing production, more
stability for contractors and construction workers, and less risk for investors.
4. Eliminate off-street parking requirements
Parking requirements generally impose an undue burden on housing development,
particularly for transit -oriented or affordable housing. When transit -oriented developments
are intended to help reduce automobile dependence, parking requirements can undermine that
goal by inducing new residents to drive, thereby counteracting city goals for increased use of
public transit, walking and biking. Such requirements can also waste developable land, and
reduce the potential for other amenities to be included; a recent Urban Land Institute study
found that minimum parking requirements were the most noted barrier to housing
development in the course of their research.45 By reducing parking and designing more
connected, walkable developments, cities can reduce pollution, traffic congestion and
improve economic development. Businesses that can be accessed without a car can see
increased revenue, increased use of alternative modes of transportation, and improved health
outcomes for residents.
These requirements have a disproportionate impact on housing for low-income households
because these families tend to own fewer vehicles but are nonetheless burdened by the extra
cost of parking's inclusion in the development. The significant cost of developing parking —
from $5,000 per surface parking spot to $60,000 underground — is incorporated at the start of
the project, which can impede the viability and affordability of the construction. 46
In 2012, Seattle's city council voted to relax parking requirements, eliminating requirements
in center -city areas with frequent transit services within '/o mile, and reducing them by 50
percent in neighborhoods outside of those centers given the same minimum level of transit
16
service — sparking a wave of new development, including hundreds of units with no
associated parking spaces. The study that accompanied this legislative change found that
parking reduced the potential number of units at a site and increased the expected rental costs
by 50 percent for a building without parking as compared to that with the mandated level of
surface parking. 47
Cities such as Denver, Minneapolis and New York City have also demonstrated success in
taking on minimum parking requirements — Denver lowered parking minimums for low-
income housing, Minneapolis reduced requirements near transit stops, and New York City
eliminated parking requirements for affordable housing located within '/2 mile of a subway
entrance. The Association of Bay Area Governments also published a rubric guiding parking
requirement reform across the region, which accompanies the Metropolitan Transportation
Commission's Smart Parking Toolbox and funds parking plans for transit station areas. And
in 2015, the State of California enacted a statewide override of local parking requirements for
all residential projects near transit that incorporated affordable units.
5. Enact high-density and multifamily zoning
Local zoning code changes that allow for the development of higher -density and multifamily
housing, especially in transit zones, can help to alleviate some of the pressure of the growing
population in many city centers. In Massachusetts, the Smart Growth Zoning act provides
incentives to local governments that make zoning changes and establish smart growth zoning
districts, to foster, near transit nodes and city/town centers, denser residential or mixed-use
zoning districts, including affordable units.48 More recently, in June, the Fairfax, VA County
Board of Supervisors approved changes to zoning codes to allow for taller buildings near
Metro stations.49 In Seattle, the city has nearly 800 micro -units with another 1,500 or so in
the pipeline — more than any other city — yet, changes to the zoning code will disallow future
approvals of such housing. 50
6. Allow accessory dwelling units
Accessory dwelling units can expand the available rental housing stock in areas zoned
largely for single-family housing and can address the needs of families pulled between caring
for their children and their aging parents, a demographic that has been growing rapidly in
recent years. As a result of the recent recession, young adults have achieved financial
independence at a slower rate than prior generations. While the number of Americans caring
for both an aging parent and a child has increased only marginally, the costs associated with
caring for multiple generations has increased significantly as a greater share of parents
support their children beyond age 18.51 Accessory dwelling units offer one solution to this
challenge by facilitating intergenerational living arrangements and allowing more seniors to
age in place, something that nearly 90% of older Americans desire for themselves and their
families. 52 In addressing the temporary needs of families that are stretched thin, accessory
dwelling units can create a permanent increase in affordable housing stock. Cities like
Portland and Santa Cruz had explicitly encouraged this action, while others like San Diego
have called for changes to allow more such units. The State of California moved earlier this
month to streamline state regulations to promote construction of accessory dwelling units.
17
7. Establish density bonuses
Density bonuses encourage housing development and incentivize the addition of affordable
housing units by granting projects in which the developer includes a certain number of
affordable housing units the ability to construct a greater number of market rate units than
would otherwise be allowed. Density bonuses are frequently tied to community goals of
increased affordable housing and can be effective in driving larger quantities of units
supplied through new construction. The State of California requires its local governments to
grant a density bonus and concession or development incentive, if requested, for
developments of five or more units including minimum portions of affordable housing or for
senior housing.
8. Employ inclusionary zoning
Inclusionary zoning requires or encourages the inclusion of affordable units in new
residential development projects. As of 2014, such policies had been implemented by nearly
500 local jurisdictions in 27 states and the District of Columbia.53 Not only have such
policies expanded the availability of affordable housing while allowing for new development
that otherwise might have been locally opposed, they have also been shown to improve
educational outcomes for low-income children gaining access to higher -performing
schools.s4
As the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy has noted, inclusionary zoning policies require
upfront commitment to long-term affordability, and perform best when both producing and
preserving affordable housing.55 While enforcement is a frequently cited obstacle to
successful inclusionary housing requirements, Massachusetts' Chapter 40B provisions
enables the local Zoning Boards of Appeals to approve affordable housing developments
under flexible rules if at least 20-25% of the units have long-term affordability restrictions.
This flexibility reduces barriers created by local approval processes and zoning. 16
9. Establish development tax or value capture incentives
Tax incentives for developers who construct affordable housing offer another avenue to
incentivize development; such incentives have been demonstrated to spur development, and
have recently been adopted in Seattle and New York City. The Seattle Multifamily Tax
Exemption nrowam, which was modified and renewed in 2015, provides property owners
and developers a tax exemption on new multifamily buildings that set aside 20-25% of the
homes as income- and rent -restricted for 12 years; currently approximately 130 properties in
Seattle are participating in the program and an additional 90 are expected to begin leasing
MFTE units between 2016 and 2018. Adopted in 2015, The New York 420-c Tax Incentive
program provides complete or partial exemption from real estate taxes for low-income
housing up to a maximum of 60 years.
18
10. Use property tax abatements
Like tax incentives, property tax abatements or exemptions can encourage the construction of
affordable housing and spur development more generally, including by providing abatements
to affordable housing production during the development phase. In 1985, Oregon adopted an
approach to provide property tax abatements to properties in which units will be exclusively
available to eligible low-income individuals or to vacant land intended to be developed as
low-income housing. Philadelphia offers a tax abatement from real estate tax for up to 30
months during the construction of residential housing. 57
19
Desmond, Matthew. Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City. 2016.
s Ganong, Peter, and Shoag, Daniel. "Why Has Regional Income Convergence in the U.S. Declined?" Harvard
University, January 2015.
3 Glaeser, Edward, Gyourko, Joseph, and Saks, Raven. "Why Have Housing Prices Gone Up?" National Bureau of
Economic Research. Working Paper 11129, February 2015.
4 Gyourko, Joseph, and Malloy, Raven. "Regulation and Housing Supply." National Bureau of Economic Research,
Working Paper 20536. October 2014.
5 Glaeser, Edward, and Ward, Bryce. "The Causes and Consequences of Land Use Regulation: Evidence from
Greater Boston." Journal of Urban Economics, 9 July 2008.
e Glaeser, Edward, Gyourko, Joseph, and Saks, Raven. "Manhattan So Expensive? Regulation and the Rise in House
Prices." National Bureau of Economic Research. Working Paper 10124, November 2003.
' Morrow, Greg. "The Homeowner Revolution: Democracy, Land Use and the Los Angeles Slow -Growth
Movement, 1965-1992." UCLA Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2013.
8 "California's High Housing Costs Causes and Consequences." Legislative Analyst's Office, March 17 2015.
'Morrow, Greg. "The Homeowner Revolution: Democracy. Land Use and the Los Angeles Slow -Growth
Movement, 1965-1992." UCLA Electronic Theses and Dissertations (2013).
10 Clark, Patrick. "The Affordable -Housing Crisis Moves Inland." Bloomberg, 15 Apr. 2016.
11 "Worst Case Housing Needs 2015 Report to Congress." U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Office of Policy Development and Research, April 2015.
12 "America's Rental Housing — Evolving Markets and Needs." Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard
University, 2013.
13 "California's High Housing Costs Causes and Consequences." Legislative Analyst's Office, March 17 2015.
14 Ibid.
15 Ilkeda, Sanford, and Washington, Emily. "How Land -Use Regulation Undermines Affordable Housing "
Mercatus Center George Mason University, November 2015.
"Glaeser, Edward, and Gyourko, Joseph. "The Impact of Zoning on Housing Affordability." National Bureau of
Economic Research. Working Paper 8835, March 2002.
17 "The State of the Nation's Housing." Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, 2016.
" "Proiecting Trends in Severely Cost -Burdened Renters: 2015-2025." Enterprise Community Partners Inc and Joint
Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, 21 September 2015.
19 "Residential Vacancies and Homeownership in the Second Ouarter 2016." U.S. Census Bureau. U.S. Department
of Commerce. 28 July, 2016.
" Ganong, Peter, and Shoag, Daniel. "Why Has Regional Income Convergence in the U.S. Declined?" Harvard
University, January 2015.
21 Hsieh, Chang -Tai, and Moretti, Enrico. "Why Do Cities Matter? Local Growth and Aggregate Growth " 2015.
20
22 Mangin, John. "The New Exclusionary Zoning." Stanford Law & Policy Review, Volume 25, January 2014.
23 Kamer, Alex, and Benner, Chris. "Job Growth Housing Affordability. and Commuting in the Bay Area." Bay
Area Regional Prosperity Housing Working Group, 29 May 2016.
24 Hoehner, Christine, Barlow, Carolyn, Allen, Peg, and Schootman, Mario. "Commuting Distance.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Metabolic Risk." The American Journal of Preventive Medicine 42.6 (2012).
25 "Commuting and Personal Well-Being." Office of National Statistics, 12 February 2014.
26 "Wellbeing Lower Among Workers With Long Commutes." Gallup, 13 August 2010.
2' Do, Kiet. "Cops Living in RV's Outside San Jose Police Department" CBS SF Bay Area.
is 'By Right Development: Does it work for you?" Office of Community Revitalization Fairfax County, Virginia.
N.d.
29 Shwartz, Heather. "Housing Policy is School Policy: Economically Integrative Housing Promotes Academic
Success in Montgomery County, Maryland" The Century Foundation, 2010.
30 Lens, Miachel, and Monkkonen, Paavo. "Do Strict Land Use Regulations Make Metropolitan Areas more
Segregated by Income?" Lewis Center. UCLA Institute of Transportation Studies, 2015.
31 Kendig, Lane. "Practice By-Right Zoning." Zoning Practice. April 2016.
32 `Bending the Cost Curve — Solutions to Expand the Supply of Affordable Rentals." Urban Land Institute
Terwilliger Center for Housing: 24.2014.
33 "Zoning Decisions." Smart Growth/Smart Energy Toolkit. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, N.d.
34 Lens, Michael. "Do Strict Land Use Regulations Make Metropolitan Areas More Segregated by Income?" Taylor
& Francis Online. N.d., 28 Dec. 2015.
35 "Vacant and Abandoned Properties: Turning Liabilities into Assets." Office of Policy Development and Research
(PD&R) U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2014.
36 Whitaker, Stephan, and Fitzpatrick IV, Thomas J. "Deconstructing Distressed-Property Spillovers: The Effects of
Vacant Tax-Delinquent, and Foreclosed Properties in Housing Submarkets." Journal of Housing Economics 22.2
(2013).
31 Cui, Lin. "Foreclosure. Vacancy and Crime." Journal of Economics, 20 July 2015.
" "Vacant Land Management in Philadelphia: The Costs of the Current System and the Benefits of Reform,"
Econsult Corporation, Penn Institute for Urban Research, and May 8 Consulting: 9, 11. November 2010.
39 Garber, Roberta, Kim, Jung, Sullivan, Kerry, and Dowell, Eben. '160 Million and Counting: The Cost of Vacant
and Abandoned Properties to Eight Ohio Cities." Community Research Partners, 3-3.2010.
40 Sang Lee, Yun, Terranova, Patrick, and Immergluck, Dan. "New Data on Local Vacant Property Registration
Ordinances." Cityscape: A Journal of Policy Development and Research 15:2, 259-66.2013.
4' `Building an Affordable Future: The Promise of a New York City Land Bank." Office of the New York City
Comptroller, February 2016.
42 "78(R) HB 2801 Bill Analysis." Texas Legislature Online, 21 May 2003.
21
4' "Housing/Community Services Department." City of Dallas, N.d..
as "Expedite Program for Affordable/in-Fill Housing & Sustainable Buildings." City of San Diego, 2015.
'S `Bending the Cost Curve — Solutions to Expand the Supply of Affordable Rentals." Urban Land Institute
Terwilliger Center for Housing: 19.2014.
46 "Parking•" Association of Bay Area Governments, N.d.
47 "Parking Review: Report to Council PLUS Committee." City of Seattle. 13 April 2015.
4e "Chapter 40 R." Housing and Economic Development. Massachusetts Housing and Urban Development, N.d.
49 Ohvo, Antonio. "Fairfax Sunervisors Give Final Anoroval for Higher-density Zoning Rules." The Washington
Post, 22 June 2016.
so Kelleher, Susan. "Seattle's micro-housing boom offers an affordable alternative." Seattle Times.
5` Parker, Kim, and Patten, Eileen. "The Sandwich Generation." Pew Research Center. Social & Demographic
Trends, 30 January 2013.
52 "Livable Communities Baby Boomer Facts and Figures." American Association of Retired Persons, April 2014.
53 Hickey, Robert, Lisa Sturtevant, and Emily Thaden. "Achieving Lasting Affordability through Inclusionary
Housing." Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, 2014.
14 Shwartz, Heather. "Housing Policy is School Policy: Economically Integrative Housing Promotes Academic
Success in Montgomery County, Maryland." The Century Foundation, 2010.
551bid.
56 "Chapter 40B Planning." Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, N.d.
57 "Abatements." Office of Property Assessment. City of Philadelphia, N.d.
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Jingle Cross Photo Essay: Field of dreams I VeloNews.com
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From City Manager Fruin
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IJingle Cross Photo Essay: Field of dreams
By Dan Seaton Published Sep. 26, 2016
You think about sports and Iowa and, after Hawkeye football, it's hard not to think about
"Field of Dreams" and its mystical baseball field out in the corn. You wonder if maybe Dr.
John Meehan, who started Jingle Cross about a decade ago, heard that same enigmatic
whisper —"If you build it, he will come" — when he decided to build a world-class
cyclocross course out in the cornfields south of Iowa City.
Maybe not, but somehow he and his race captured some of that same magic. Because
Jingle Cross, second stop in the Telenet UCI Cyclocross World Cup, really was magical.
According to the race organization, perhaps as many as 10,000 people came, and they
poured out sound and support and won a lot of hearts in the process.
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Two thin s to know about ILn le Cross: First, it moved from a Ion -held place in the winter
'cross caindar to Ser 1:R to accommodaMthe World Cup, DUT still offered cyc ocross
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fans a taste of Christmas on a scorching hot day. Second, the race has always been about
kids, from the everybody -wins kids races early in the day to the money it raises for the
University of Iowa Children's Hospital. Many young fans sported a look commonly seen in
the fields of Flanders in Belgium, but perhaps not so often in the fields of the American
midwest.
The course was a sprawling, labyrinthine tangle that snaked around the barns of the
Johnson County Fairgrounds before climbing the steep slopes of "Mount Krumpit" and
plunging back down a descent that might as well have been the steep and technical
Koppenberg. After heavy rains on Thursday night, the course was a muddy mess,
despite temperatures close to 90 degrees on Saturday.
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In the rider parking area, it was like any other World Cup. Generators and power washers
hummed, riders of the Telenet - Fidea Lions sorted tire choices, and American Courtenay
McFadden got some help pinning up one last number ahead of the women's race.
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The early lead in the women's race went to Dutchwoman and World Cup leader Sophie de
Boer, who got special dispensation to race in her trade kit instead of the series leader's
jersey thanks to the fad that UCI only had clothing suited to colder temperatures. De Boer
could not sustain her early tempo and eventually faded to seventh place.
"I never raced in this heat, even in the summer. It was really warm," she said later. "My heart
rate was stuck at 80 percent, and I couldn't go harder. I don't know. I only was thinking,'I
want to stop' because it was so hot. The running parts there was no wind, it was insane. It
was so warm. I don't know how the other girls in the front can handle this."
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As the early leaders faded, the race became a battle between U.S.-based riders: Czech
Katerina Nash, American champion Katie Compton, French champion Caroline Mani, and
others, with Kaitlin Antonneau chasing into the group from behind.
Compton blew the race open with a series of attacks near midpoint of the 37 -minute race.
Only Nash could stay with her, and the two appeared to be headed for a classic duel before
Nash suffered a mechanical.
The short running time sparked some minor controversy, and UCI officials acknowledged an
error, saying they expected the race to slow as riders tired, but instead it sped up as the
course continued to dry out. Few of the women in the race complained about the length
though.
"It was hard. I definitely struggled;" said Compton. "I'm kind of glad they ran us a little short.
Initially IVme through witlti!Dne lap to go anckthought, We're ring short!' But *an
halfway.Qr,ough the lap, bdea�ded it was OK e just so hot, anew hen you're not �lacesking —
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we're all out there suffering the same, but I struggle a little bit towards the end of races that
are warm:'
For Belgian and European champion Sanne Cant, it was a second ugly day after a ninth -
place finish in Vegas on Wednesday. Cant is a back-to-back World Cup series winner but
appeared to struggle in the heat and finished 13th. She is now in 10th place and more than
60 points off the series lead.
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For Compton, meanwhile, the tables were turned. After a frustrating 2015-16 season, a
World Cup victory looked like an enormous relief. If she was suffering in the final meters,
she didn't show it.
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Meanwhile, others clearly had suffered. Antonneau, who finished third behind Compton
and Mani, collapsed on the ground in a tiny patch of shade just across the finish line. De
Boer, meanwhile, sought cool in a bottle of water.
"My first lap wasn't as good as some of the other people;" said Antonneau. "I think I was out
of the top 10, 13th or something. But then towards the end of the last lap, I got into my
rhythm and got going. These are the type of courses I excel at and like to do, so I'm happy
to be able to finish on the podium here in the U.S. in front of my friends and family."
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American Ellen Noble, who leads the World Cup's under -23 category, earned a stunning
fifth -place result, well ahead of a host of more experienced and accomplished women. If
there had been any doubt about the present — or future — of American women's
cyclocross before this weekend, the first-, third-, and fifth -place finishes, won by a long-
established veteran, a rising star coming into her own, and a comparative newcomer,
respectively, dispelled them.
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Meanwhile, fans went crazy for an all -Colorado Springs podium. Compton, Mani, and
Antonneau live within a few miles of each other at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
"It just cool," said Antonneau. "Everyone was yelling and you could hear everyone saying
your name, and it was so fun to be up there with Caroline and Katie. We all live in Colorado
Springs, and theyre my friends. It was cool"
By the time the men blasted off the line about 30 minutes later, the sun may have been a
little less intense, but the race was still swamped by the heavy, mostly windless weather. It
was still hot, and the hazy early evening sunshine dappled the fields almost gauzily. The
calendars may have said autumn, but the air said early August.
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Fans had thronged the hillside of Mount Krumpit, while others crowded into the barns of
the fairground at its foot. A wave of sound followed the riders as they plunged down its
slopes. It was classic American cyclocross. They don't cheer like that in Belgium.
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The climb took a toll on riders like Marcel Meisen, who grabbed his bike and pushed,
propelled by an enthusiastic crowd that mobbed the sides of the course. The descent might
have offered a bit of relief from the heat, but the nasty off -camber turns demanded perfect
concentration from riders like Thijs van Amerongen.
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Belgian Michael Vanthourenhout, who days ago looked like he might be headed for the win
in Las Vegas before Wout Van Aert overhauled him in a dramatic final charge to the finish
line, gave it another go. Vanthourenhout led, significantly, at mid -race. But the attack came
too early; this was a race to be won with the slow burn.
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It was a long, lonely day for American national champion Jeremy Powers. Powers, normally
all but unbeatable in domestic races, has struggled since a hard fall in Wisconsin
the weekend prior. In spite of overwhelming support from a partisan home crowd, Powers
could only manage 43rd place, two laps down.
Meanwhile, Laurens Sweeck, third in Vegas, was next to take a shot. But by the time he
reached the front of the race though, Van Aert, who had been hampered early in the race
by a jammed derailleur and was racing with a broken toe, was moving forward as well.
"In the beginning I had a piece of wood in my derailleur, so it was a small problem, but I
knew 20 seconds on this course is not the same as 20 seconds on a fast course," said Van
Aert later. "So there was no panic at that moment. Today I just focused on my own race and
not what the others were doing. I tried to get back in my own rhythm, and it worked out"
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Americans like Anthony Clark wrestled with a course more difficult than anything they
typically encounter outside Europe. It was full of viciously off -camber turns, deep ruts, and
rapid transitions between surfaces. It was enough to keep even the best riders off balance.
Still, the unforgiving course was offset by the enthusiasm of the fans of all ages who poured
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into Iowa from around the country for the race. Screaming, ringing cowbells, they all but
propelled riders around the track.
And it was spectacular. The course offered dramatic views and generous sight lines, and
was packed with features that gave it its own offbeat character. Like Belgian classics such as
nighttime urban assault -style Diegem race or Zonhoven's otherworldly moors and epic sand
pit, Jingle Cross carved out its own identity with barns and corrals and barbecue smoke.
W
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By the final laps, it was clear Wout Van Aert had control of the race, easily distancing
Laurens Sweeck and Kevin Pauwels, who himself overtook Sweeck late in the race. Racing
with a broken toe — and a only couple of acetaminophen and ibuprofen pills to dull the
discomfort — did little to slow the world champion down.
"There was pain, of course," said Van Aert. "More in the beginning because, when we got in
the field on the first running sections I felt it. But when the legs were suffering more in the
second part of the race I forgot the pain. Only on the barriers I had some pain. So it was not
the biggest suffering of the day."
I ri
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It was all a gift to American cyclocross fans: seeing so many national champions so close up,
enjoying a hard-fought race on a late, lingering summer afternoon.
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It was a gift to the riders as well. Sweeck, on the line, applauded the fans, pointing to them,
thanking them for the support. It was something totally unique, he said later.
"The people here are really — they are also [cheering] for the second or the third or the
10th guy. It is different than in Belgium," he said.
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In the end there were high fives for fans, handshakes for teammates and rivals, and more
bottles of cold water.
"It was amazing! It's incredible!" said Stephen Hyde later, top American in 10th place. "I had
never — the only time I've ever heard anything like this was, not to compare myself to him,
Sven in Europe. Sven goes through and everybody erupts. It's the first time in my life it's
ever happened. It's unreal. I couldn't have imagined it. It gave me so much motivation.
"I think every single person cheered for me. It gave me an extra set of legs. It was unreal. I
loved it"
He wasn't alone, there was plenty of love to go around. People came, lining the slopes of
Mount Krumpit, which loomed over the cornfields of eastern Iowa like the Koppenberg
looms, grassy and green, over the Flemish Ardennes.
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Most of the time, hills like the Koppenberg are silent, lazy with the grazing cows and puffy
summer clouds, sleepy and softened in the autumn rain. But you go there and you feel it:
History has been written there, magic has happened there, and happened more than once.
So too with the ball field out in the corn. The movie magic that brought Shoeless Joe back to
life became something deep and abiding.
Mount Krumpit has it too, for cyclocrossers, anyway. Long after the crowds depart and the
muddy scars become faint tire tracks in the tall grass, cyclists go out to the Johnson County
Fairgrounds and just feel it: Something special happened here.
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From City Manager Fruin
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IP9
18 NEW
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Commentary: Jingle Cross was
Christmas in September for US
cyclocross fans
by Dan Seaton
September 27, 2016
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Photography by Wil Matthews/Jake Orness
Iowa City was not the first place in the U.S. the big stars of European
cyclocross showed up to race in America; that was the Trek IXC Cup, in
Waterloo, Wisconsin. Iowa City was not the first cyclocross World Cup
event in America; CrossVegas was, earning the UCI's prize for the best
World Cup event last year.
But let's put those other big races aside for a minute. Louisville, which
hosted the first American cyclocross world championship a few years ago,
f now seems a distant memory. CrossVegas is a trailblazing event all its own.
But it's one that resides on another planet — in another galaxy, even — a
0 crazy blowout party as much as a race, all rolled up in neon and noise,
G�playing like a paean to the sport, all befitting its namesake town.
For the next few minutes, let's shine a light on Iowa City, on Jingle Cross,
the second stop of the 2ot6-17 Telenet UCI Cyclocross World Cup
And let's say this right from the start: Jingle Cross was an enormous
success.
Katie Compton, on the off -camber descent of "Mount Xrumpit" at the 2m6 UCI World Cup CX race in Iowa City, Iowa. Photo:
Will Matthews/Jake Orness.
On a blazing hot and muggy day, at the Johnson County Fairgrounds, close
to to,000 fans gathered to watch the sport's biggest names do battle. From
a distance, the swooping, off -camber descent of "Mount Krumpit" looked
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as fearsome as the legendary Koppenberg, host to some of the most epic
Belgian battles in cyclocross history. The heavy rains that fell late Thursday
and turned the course into a muddy morass only added to the authenticity.
Riders and team directors struggled to find a comparison. It's like the
Koppenberg or it's like Overijse, they said. It's like building a baseball
stadium and comparing it to Fenway, to Wrigley Field. These are legendary
places, imbued with history, but the comparison seems apt. A day may
come when Mount Krumpit is as famous as "De Kuil" — the sand pit — in
Zonhoven. The new Jingle Cross World Cup was an instant classic.
And yet, American cyclocross continues to carve out its own individual
0 identity too.
G+
"I know the atmosphere in the U.S., I raced here a few times before, and I
see that it's everywhere the same," said Sven Nys, the two-time world
champion — his second earned in Louisville — who now runs the Telenet-
Fidea Lions team. "A lot of people come to cyclocross, but they all race. And
that's different than what you see in Europe. All people who come to
cyclocross in Europe support the riders, but they don't race. But I think
here in Iowa you see that there is the most people coming to the race. You
see that here there is a lot of potential for cyclocross also. You see that in
Madison very well, you also see that here. I think that Vegas is something
very special. But [Iowa City] is a nice cyclocross course. It's really,
extremely — it's a little. bit like the Koppenberg and Namur."
But when on the Koppenberg or in Namur has a podium finisher taken the
time to applaud the fans at the end of the race like Belgian Laurens Sweeck
(ERA-Murprotec) did on Saturday? Sweeck rolled across the line clapping,
pointing to the fans, cheering for them.
Sweeck was overwhelmed by the support on the course, he said later, and
simply wanted the fans to know how much he appreciated it.
"The people here are really — they are also [cheering] for the second or
the third or the tenth guy. It is different than in Belgium," he said.
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Sven Nys: A good man to have in the pits. Photo: Wil Matthe s/Iake Orness.
Compatriot Dieter Vanthourenhout (Marlux-Napoleon Games), racing in
America for the first time, agreed.
"Very warm," he said of the American fans. "The atmosphere is very good.
That was the first thing I said after the race, it was a very nice experience."
Vanthourenhout went further than some of his countrymen, saying the
Iowa City course was perhaps the most difficult he had ever raced on.
"Belgium has no course as difficult as this, I think," said Vanthourenhout.
"Maybe the World Cup in Namur."
American Jonathan Page (Fuji), a veteran of European cyclocross who
recently returned to the U.S., said the American fans had shown the
European riders something totally unfamiliar — and special.
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"It was great," said Page. "There are a lot of people here and they're all
cheering and having a good time. I think it's good for the Europeans to see
such a great crowd here. It's much more enthusiastic and fun. Here in
America, they cheer for everyone, not just the first three, or the first
Belgian."
Helen Wyman (Kona)—the nine -time British champion, two-time European champion, and
Page's former neighbor in Oudenaarde, just down the street from the Koppenberg — said the
course was impressive.
hl "It's really Euro," said Wyman. `1 think it's the most Earn American course I've ever ridden.
G+It's pretty tough, it's got lots of hills. The descent is really like the Koppenberg, it's even a bit
steeper in some of the comers. And there's plenty of climbing, there's quite a lot of technical
"'stuff that isn't comering, which is really Euro, something you don't usually get in America."
Three -time British champion Ian Field (Hargrnves Cycles) was one of the few riders to
compare the race to one outside of Belgium. Field pointed to the World Cup course in Milton
Keynes, in Britain, run once in 2014, another event that was praised for its difficulty, dramatic
racing, and its wildly enthusiastic crowds.
"I would say it's similar to — not quite as technical — but similar to Milton Keynes with the
constant up and down and with all the rain even the flat sections are hard now," said Field.
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Tom Meeusen (Telenet-Fidea) led the elite men's field shortly after the start. Photo: Wil Matthews.
Rider after rider heaped praise on the event, on the organization, on the fans, and on Iowa City
in general.
"Today we saw a track here in Iowa and, when you haven track like that in Belgium, you get
15,000 people," said Crelan-Vastgoedservice sport director Niels Albert, himself a two-time
world champion. "Because the place is amazing. You have a hill, running, accommodation,
puking. Everything is there. So I think the place is perfect"
f Wyman, meanwhile, who spent a week in Iowa City exploring the roads and countryside, said
y she loved her time there.
G+`Iowa is amazing," she said. "The riding here is amazing, really beautiful riding. Loads of
...twisty, tumy roads and really gorgeous and not much traffic"
Belgian Tom Meeusen (Telenet-Fidea) agreed. `1 like it here," he said. "We just went for a
spin on the gravel roads. It's a nice neighborhood and I would like to spend more time here."
The thing is, riders had plenty to complain about. It was hot and humid on race day,
with numerous riders clearly paying the price in the heat. Many were without the
conveniences of home: mobile homes and support networks. The weather was unpredictable
and the course conditions changed by the minute. There was the long transfer from Vegas, on
top of the long [light a few days earlier.
But in spite of that, almost nobody complained. Riders acknowledged the heat, some said they
had struggled with the travel, but quickly shifted to praise the race, its organization, and the
fans.
http://cyclingtips.com/2016/09/commentary jingle-cross-was-christmas-in-september-for-u... 9/27/2016
Commentary: Jingle Cross was Christmas in September for US cyclocross fans I Cycling... Page 7 of 11
The world champion, Wout van Aert (Cretan-Vastgoedservice), remarked about the race's
charitable aims. Presented with flowers on the podium by two children, direct beneficiaries of
the race's support of the University of Iowa's Children's Hospital, Van Aert bent down to
talk, and smiled broadly, an outpouring of emotion atter what had already been an emotional
day.
"I don't know, but I think it's unique," he said. "In Belgium most of the organizations are held
to earn money, because there's a lot of business over there, with the VIPs and stuff like that.
So maybe it's unique. And that's a good thing, of course. -
Van Aert said the atmosphere in Iowa City was incomparable.
"Today it was a new experience," he said. "Before I was really impressed about [American
'cross], but this was next level. It was crazy how many people were here, and how hard they
were cheering."
he says. WOW, just wow... alinglecross
Wont van Aert (@Woutvan Aert) September 29i. 2016
For American fans, the chance to see a world cyclocross champion race, up close, was
unusual. Van Aert, used to Belgian races where he and his rainbow jersey are fixtures, said it
was an unexpected pleasure to be able to show the rainbow stripes in America.
http://cyclingtips.coml2Ol6/09/commentaryjingle-cross-was-christmas-in-september-for-u... 9/27/2016
Commentary: Jingle Cross was Christmas in September for US cyclocross fans I Cycling... Page 8 of 11
"It's strange to feel that, because you're not thinking about it by yourself," he said. "It's realty
good to be here, and especially this race is a really big gain for the World Cup. I'm happy we
could do more races for the first time, and I hope it will be more in the future also."
Fans lined the or. as French national champion Caroline Mani (Raleigh -Clement) battled to second at the Iowa City World Cup. Photo: Wil ManhewsUake
Omess.
About a week before riders began departing Belgium for the U.S., Belgian newspapers
began running stories about the expense of the trip to the U.S., about the riders who would not
make the trip, and about why it might not be such a good idea to hold two World Cups in the
U.S.
Although most riders and team managers expressed support for the international expansion of
the sport in general, they asked many questions — some legitimate, some less so — about the
whys and the hows of the World Cup's diversion overseas.
Some of those questions were answered on Saturday, and the answers were resoundingly,
overwhelmingly positive.
And now, we can ask a few of our own.
How many of the doubters became converts? How many riders, who rarely hear a cheer at all,
found themselves engulfed in the wall of sound that resonated down the slopes of Mount
Kmmpit and rose to a roar at the race's finish line? How many of those riders slapped hands
with fans on the finish line, or signed autographs and took selfim in the parking lot? How
many found themselves battling a course as challenging as any on the European circuit,
scraping for places at the back end of the top 10?
http://cyclmgtlps.coml20l6/09/commentaryjingle-cross-was-christmas-in-september-for-u... 9/27/2016
Commentary: Jingle Cross was Christmas in September for US cyclocross fans I Cycling... Page 9 of 11
Nobody knows the answers, but they were written in the mud -streaked smiles, the high -fives
and hand -slaps, the buoyant din that poured across the Johnson County Fairgrounds on
Saturday.
Jingle Cross, as it docs every year, began with "The Grinch," leading a kids race around the
lower end of the course. The Grinch, whose heart was two sizes too small, tried to stop
Christmas from coming.
In Iowa City, the Grinch is really Dr. John Meehan, pediatric surgeon and director of Jingle
Cross, the man who began the event and donates all proceeds to the University of Iowa's
f Children's Hospital — a guy who seems to have ended up with a heart that's about two sizes
too big. He wears that costume and shines light, and laughter, across a whole community.
V
G+It may have felt like midsummer on Saturday, but Jingle Cross, and all its muddy and
boisterous fun, was an early Christmas gift to cyclocross fans across the U.S.
Jingle Cross race director John Meehan congratulates Wout Van Aert following his win. Photo: Wil Manhews/Jake Omess.
o total shares T y G+
Tags: 2016-2017UCI Cyclocross World Cup, Features, finale Cross, John Meehan, wout van cert
Related Posts
http://cyclingtips.coml2Ol6/09/commentary jingle-cross-was-christmas-in-september-for-u... 9/27/2016
III Ia CITY OF IOWA CITY IP10
�� ,�� MEMORANDUM
DATE: September 27, 2016
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Geoff Fruin, City Manager
Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
RE: Council Work Sessions
Council has expressed interest in the possibility of making changes to the structure of Council work
sessions. Unlike formal Council meetings, the format for Council work session is not established by
resolution but rather by Council consensus. The current work session starts at 5:00 PM and follows the
general order:
• Major topic XXX
• Council appointments
• Questions from Council re Agenda Items
• Information Packet Discussion
• Council Time
• Meeting Schedule
• Pending Work Session Topics
• Upcoming Community Events/Council Invitations
Recently staff moved discussion of agenda items to after the discussion of a major topic to allow time for
that discussion. The work session should end no later than 6:45 to allow a break between the work
session and the start of the formal meeting at 7:00 PM. This has resulted in work session being recessed
and started after conclusion of the formal meeting. Both work sessions and formal meetings are broadcast
live on City Channel 4.
A number of concerns have prompted this discussion including too much time being spent discussing
agenda items instead of the major topic scheduled for the work session; duplicating the same discussion
for the work session and formal not best use of Council time; confusion by the public on when agenda
item might be discussed; and the desire to complete the work session agenda prior to the formal meeting.
With those concerns in mind staff is recommending the following changes to the work session agenda:
Remove discussion of asenda items. An item can always be removed for separate consideration at
the formal meeting but a concerned individual knows they only need attend the formal meeting.
Remove Council appointments. Discussion and appointments would occur at formal meeting.
Umorksessionoptions2016.doc
r
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
DATE: September 27, 2016
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
RE: Council Meeting Schedule, November — December 2016
09-29-1,3
IP11
Below is a proposed meeting schedule for November and December. Because of possible holiday
absences, in the past we have considered alternate days on off weeks or had one Council meeting in a
month. We can also schedule a special meeting if the need arises. Please check your calendars
and let me know if you'd like to make any changes in the schedule as soon as possible.
Tuesday, November 1, Work Session, 5:00 PM
November 1. Formal 7:00 PM
Tuesday, November 15, Work Session, 5:00 PM (Mayor Throgmorton absent)
November 15, Formal 7:00 PM (Mayor Throgmorton absent)
Tuesday, December 6, Work Session, 5:00 PM
December 6, Formal 7:00 PM
Tuesday, December 20, Work Session, 5:00 PM (Mayor Throgmorton absent)
December 20, Formal 7:00 PM (Mayor Throgmorton absent)
S:schedule (NOV-DEC.).doc
I 1 09-29-1 ��-4CITY OF IOWA CITYI 1P12
at
MEMORANDUM
Date: September 23, 2016
To: City Council
From: Karen Jennings, Human Resources Administrator
Re: Fall employee lunch — Save the Date
The City will be hosting its annual Employee appreciation lunch on Thursday, November 17,
2016 in the Park Lodge at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. A meal will be served from
11:00am — 1:00pm by the City's Department Directors to permanent City employees as an
expression of appreciation for their commitment and hard work.
As a City Council member, you are welcome to attend as a guest, or to help the Department
Directors serve. This is a busy time of year so I wanted to give you ample notice to get the
event on your calendar
Thank you.
City of Iowa City plans Halloween events
RReeceive Updates Enter Email Address [Go
T
City of Iowa City plans Halloween events
City of Iowa City sent this bulletin at 09/27/2016 03:05 PM CDT
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City of 10WACITY
Date: 9/27/16
Contact: Juli Sevdell Johnson
Phone: 319-356-5110
City of Iowa City plans Halloween events
The Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department has loads of spooktacular fun
planned this Halloween season!
70th Annual Halloween Parade and Carnival: Friday, Oct. 21, 2016
Page 1 of 2
IP13
On Friday, Oct. 21, tricksters of all ages are invited to meet at 6 p.m. at the Weatherdance Fountain on
the Ped Mall in Downtown Iowa City, dressed in their Halloween attire. The annual parade to the
Robert A. Lee Recreation Center, 220 S. Gilbert St., will begin at 6:15 p.m. Once the revelers arrive at
the Recreation Center, even more spooky fun gets underway with the Halloween Carnival, from
6:30-8:30 p.m. Enjoy the Haunted STEAM Tunnel and a glow -stick dance party, as well as carnival -
style games, crafts, prizes, tricks and treats, special visitors, and loads of other Halloween fun.
All ages and abilities are welcome. No pre -registration or fee is required. Children must be
accompanied by an adult for both of these events. In case of inclement weather, the parade will be
cancelled, but the carnival will still be held.
Tot Monster Mash: Friday, Oct. 28, 2016
This annual Halloween adventure, designed for kids ages 4-6, accompanied by a parent or guardian,
is Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Dress up in Halloween costumes and join Parks and
Recreation staff at Mercer / Scanlon, 2701 Bradford Drive for inflatables, games, stories, crafts, and
more! No pre -registration or fee is required to participate.
Trick or Treat Night: Monday, Oct. 31, 2016
Iowa City's official Trick or Treat Night will be Monday, Oct. 31, from dusk to 8 p.m.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/IAIOWA/bulletins/1674a2f 9/27/2016
City of Iowa City plans Halloween events Page 2 of 2
Have fun out there, but slay safe by following these guidelines from the Iowa City Police and Fire
Departments:
Make sure that costumes allow trick -or -treaters to see and walk safely. Avoid long, billowing
fabrics that drag on the ground, costume footwear (wear sturdy shoes), or masks that obstruct
the ability to see or breathe. Cut out larger openings for eyes, nose, and mouth, if necessary.
Trick -or -treaters should be visible. Carry a flashlight or wear something lighted, such as a glow
bracelet or necklace or shoes that light up, or add reflective tape to a Halloween costume or
coat.
• Parents, guardians, or a responsible older youth should accompany trick -or -treaters. Visit
homes in familiar neighborhoods where the porch light is on and the area is well -lit. Make sure
children understand that they are never to enter a strangers home. Stay on the sidewalk rather
than cutting across yards.
• Instruct kids to stay away from candles and open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop,
and roll if their clothing catches fire. Adults are urged to use battery -powered candles in their
jack -o -lanterns, and are also advised to make sure that the decorations they place on
sidewalks, porches, steps, or other approaches do not pose a tripping or safety hazard to trick -
or -treaters.
• Halloween treats should not be eaten until they're brought home and examined by parents.
When in doubt, throw it out.
• Drivers should be especially alert on Halloween. Keep an eye out for children who may be
dressed in dark clothing or walking on roadways, medians, and curbs, or who may dart out from
between parked cars. Also, be sure to enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.
• Halloween is often a time for pranks that may have the potential to harm a person or property. If
you see any unlawful or suspicious activity, contact the Iowa City Police Department at 9-1-1 to
report it. For more safety information, contact Crime Prevention Officer Ashten Hayes at 319-
356-5273 or ashten-haves(cbiowa-citv.org or Fire Chief John Grier at 319-356-5256 or'ol hn-
arier(a)Iowa-city.org.
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IP14
Marian Karr
From: City of Iowa City <CityoflowaCity@public.govdelivery.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 28, 2016 3:14 PM
To: Marian Karr
Subject: Washington Street to reopen to two-way traffic in the 100 block Friday
0 SHRRE Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
10WACITY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 9/28/2016
Contact: Scott Sovers
Phone: 319-356-5142
Washington Street to reopen to two-way traffic in the 100
block Friday
The 100 block of Washington Street, stretching from Clinton to Dubuque Streets, will reopen to two-
way traffic, Friday, Sept. 30.
The 100 block reopened to one lane of one-way, westbound traffic earlier this month after being
completely closed to traffic for several months as crews worked to replace underground
infrastructure and update the street with new amenities like lighting and seating.
Similar work continues in the 200 block of Washington Street, stretching from Dubuque to Linn
Streets, where workers are currently upgrading utilities, repairing vaults and replacing pavement.
The entire project is expected to be completed later this fall.
All businesses on Washington Street are open during construction.
The upgrades and updates on Washington Street are part of the City's larger Downtown and
Pedestrian Mall Streetscape plan.
To receive project updates, sign-up for City of Iowa City e -subscriptions and follow the City of Iowa
City on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more, visit icgov.org/downtownstreetscape.
t t 1
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Late Handouts Distributed
From:
Charming Jones <jones.charming@yahoo.com> �'/
Sent:
To:
Friday, September 30, 2016 2:50 AM
austin.jacobs@iowa.gov (Date)
Cc:
statedeptgov; Jim Throgmorton; cityadmin@orangecityiowa.com;
debdunlopdehaan@gmail.com; Council; rbdeboer@orangecitycomm.net; chad@oolman.com;
sroesner@orangecitycomm.net; tkvandebrake@orangecitycomm.net; earl@nwciowa.edu;
mayor@norwalk.iowa.gov; StephanieR@norwalk.iowa.gov; Diane.Broek@transova.com;
bradleyphilsmith@gmail.com; pastorderooy@gmail.com; steven.michael.mahr@gmail.com;
collazo@nytimes.com
Subject:
Re: Comm ittalApplication/DoctorsDiagnosisNoMentallllness
Attachments:
img466.jpg; img467.jpg; img468.jpg; img470.jpg;
PioneerMemorialHomeandCommunityStalking.docx; Sharmeen Jones Resume.docx; The
Court Committal.docx; DSCN0036.JPG
Dear Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds,
Please find the following attachments below:
1. A Court Application submitted by Mr. Steve Mahr and Mr. Bradley Smith
2. The doctor's diagnosis as no mental illness detected
3. A letter detailing my experiences and feelings about Organized Gangstalking in Orange City, Iowa and
around the world
4. My resume
5. A letter addressed to the both of you
6. A picture of me
The purpose of this letter is to notify you of the hardship I have faced since moving to Orange City, Iowa in
March of this year.
Please read it with care and compassion.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
L't 3ILJ%I -L:,Zx: zut.:r U
iN THE MATTER OF
S k or rme e4 Taie s ,
ALLEGED TO BE SERIOUSLY MENTALLY
IIVIYAIRED;
Respondent
No. rl,#I1/i 00/ 37/
PHYSICIAN'S REPORT OF
EXAMINATION PURSUANT TO
IOWA CODE SECTION 229.10(2)
NOTE: Iowa Code Section 229.12(3) provides that if the Court finds that the applicants have
failed to establish that the respondent is seriously mentally impaired by clear and convincing evidence, the
Court shall deny the application and terminate the involuntary commitment proceedings.
DATE AND TIME OF EXAMINATION:
1. Respondent's name' Sh a, / pre e-4
2. Address: 06!m Coy S;0VV roe.
(street) (city or town) (county) (state).
3. Date of birth:
(month) (year)
4. Place
5. Sex:
6. Occupation:
7. Marital status: Single_ Married Divorced
8. Number of Children and Names-
9,
ames9. Nearest relative's name:
Address:
(street) (city or town) (county) (state)
1 o. Is this an examination conducted under Iowa Code Section 229.11?
1 I . Did a qualified mental health professional assist with this exam? If so, ho? '
(Please
provide address). If th professional's report is written, please atta
12. in your judgment, is respondent mentally ill? If so, stategdiagnosis and
supporting facts:
NOTE: "Seriously mentally in is defined by Iowa Code Section 229.1(15): "Descn'bes
the condition of a person with mental illness and because of that illness lacks sufficient judgment to make
responsible decisions with respect to the person's hospitalization or treatment, and who because of that
illness meets any of the following criteria:
a. Is likely to physically injure the person's self or others if allowed td remain at liberty with
treatment
b. Is likely to inflict serious emotional injury on members of the person's family or others who
lack reasonable opportunity to avoid contact with the person with mental illness if the person with mental
illness is allowed to remain at liberty without treatment
c. Is unable to satisfy the person's needs for nourishment, clothing essential medical care, or
shelter so that it is likely that the person will suffer physical injury, physical debilitation, or death.
E -FILED 2016 SEP 13 10:52 AM SIOUX - CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT
13. In yourjudgmen; does the rtsponden; b9r aujg of the mental illness, lack sufficient judgment
�to make onsible decisions with respect to the person's hospitalization or treatment?
. If not, slate supporting facts:
14. In your judgment is the respondent, because of the mental illness, likely to:
a. physically igjurc the person's self or others if allowed to remain at liberty
without vestment? �D
b. inflict serious emotional injury on members of the person's family or others who lack
reasonable opportunity to avoid contact with the person with mental iu� eas if the person with
mental illness is allowed to remain at liberty without treatment- N
c. be unable to satisfy the person's needs for nourishment, clothing, essential medical
care, or shelter so that it is likely that the person will suffer physical injury, physical debilitation, or
death? WO. •'''
15. In your judgment, is the rcspondont treatable? �`, If so, state diagnosis and supporting
facts:
16. In your judgment, would the respondent benefit i
17. Can the respondent be evaluated on an outpatient
answer:
18, Can the respondent, without danger to self or other, be released to the custody of a relative or
friend during the course of evaluation? '% C
19. Is full-time hospitalization nae ary for evaluation? A mo
20. Does the nmoondent have a prior history of other physical or mental illttbss7 AJO . If yes,
please specify: _
21. Was the patient medicated at the time of examination? _L�_. If so, supply the following
information: MEDICME
In your judgment, what are
understand these proceedings7_,_,::
TIME
3 of the medication on the respondent's ability to
22 In your judgment is the respondent seriously mentally Impaired (as defined above after
paragraph 12)7 tb. If yes, state what plan you recommend for the respondent's treatment Be specific as
to facility for placemen; if any, and terms of aftercare after release from any inpatient treatment, or any
other recommendations for evaluation and treatment: (Please type or print),
801 5th St.
Siam Gty, IA 51101
Signed:
physic 1
712.279-24W
466
Address_
1'alephone
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SIOUX COUNTY CLz1tK OF COURT 4UESTIONNAM R `r s
COMMffMRNT ApYLICCADTTS
Name of persM filling out this form: ^ ;,
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company G}rroup Policy #
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Pg f 4rl
Dear Officer Jim Pottebaum,
My name is Sharmeen D. Jones and I am a targeted individual of a Covert Harassment Program that goes
by the name of the Cointelpro Surveillance Program, Gangstalking, Organized Stalking, etc. I received
my Master of Science degree in Animal Science with a specialty in reproductive physiology from the
University of Connecticut in 2001. With a desire to see the world, I decided not to work in my field, but
instead head off to Japan to teach conversational English for one year. However, because I fell in LOVE
with the country, one year turned into nearly eleven. Though I LOVED the country, I found them to have
very poor labor law practices. Because of this, I joined the union and became very active in labor rights'
disputes in collective bargaining sessions and demonstrations for workers, Japanese and foreigners
alike, who had been unfairly dismissed. It was necessary to join the union as companies never obeyed
the Japanese Labor Standards Law (1LSL). They were infamous for not providing workers with the
benefits to which they were entitled based on the JLSL and terminating employment contracts without
proper notice. Without the union, workers were left without concrete job security. NOVA was the
biggest eikawa (English conversational businesses) throughout Japan and it was my employer. Hired by
NOVA in April 2003, 1 moved to Japan in August 2003. When I became heavily involved in labors' rights
issues with NAMBU NUGW (National Union for General Workers) and human rights' issues with
Amnesty International Japan in 2007, 1 was made aware of community stalking by police officers, people
in the community, students (even my sweet little kid students as young as 5), and co-workers. It was not
until October of 2015, after doing a Google search, that I learned of the Cointelpro Surveillance
Program.
From my experience with gangstalking, I believe it is a dissident cleansing where targets are placed in an
invisible concentration camp and taken out of mainstream society by using psychological warfare to
force them into joining Cointelpro, being institutionalized, or committing suicide. From my perspective,
the world is transitioning into a fascist movement working under the guise of creating a peaceful
society. Mr. William Binney, an NSA Whistleblower, explains why certain people become targeted
individuals and how it works in the Youtube video posted below. Simply, we are transitioning into a
global totalitarian government and anyone who threatens that government becomes a target. I find
people like him to be a reputable source, so please watch it to be informed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3owk7vEEOvs&feature=share
Gangstalking is often hard to prove because the tactics used look like everyday occurrences. It will be
difficult for someone who has never experienced anything like this to comprehend, but I will do my best
to connect the dots. I have tried my best to describe my experiences in a way that makes sense. I have
experienced more than what is described in this letter, but cannot list every detail as they are too many
and too vague. My only goal is to raise awareness of this system, because it is playing with the lives of
millions for fun and monetary gain. Please read it with an open HEART and open mind.
I never thought in my wildest of dreams such a secret society meant to destroy free-will could exist and I
would be one of its main focuses. Based on my experiences, no stone is left unturned no matter the
ethnicity, religion, sex, age, profession or family ties. All oaths to protect and care for the well-being of
those targeted have no place in this system. No place is sacred. It has no shame. Everyone is made to
play out their role. If you are a priest, you must do ill will do your church member; a dentist, to your
patient; a parent, to your child; a teacher, to your student; or a police officer, to your community
member as the subject of harassment could be anyone. The subject must at all times feel unsafe any
and everywhere. The aim is to destroy peace of mind, comfort, ease of accomplishment, and self-worth.
All accounts in this letter are based on my experiences in Orange City, Iowa as a targeted individual,
since moving here in March 2016. Some references will be made to other places where I have also been
gangstalked outside of Iowa.
Gangstalkers
The key players are basically, everyone and anyone you can imagine though I am not completely sure of
how these players are chosen.
Before a targeted individual begins to feel the effects of gangstalking, the strangers and the people
closest to them have been gathering information about them for years, probably decades, because the
average gangstalker does not become so overnight. Many of them are born into it while others become
indoctrinated for various reasons. Immigrants, the homeless, criminals, and those just down on their
luck are easy targets for recruitment. In fact, they are family, teachers, students, friends, post persons,
attendants of all business sorts, and even pastors and church peers. Some seem to be willing
participants, while others would rather not live this double -life. This has been through my observation
and even more, the average person who is not a part of the system will have at least one person in their
life or circle of friends who is a gangstalker which makes it very easy for them to gain access to targeted
individuals. This is probably the most psychologically damaging component of the system which is to
have the person you trust and LOVE the most betray that trust and LOVE. They know the most intimate
details about your life and these are the factors used to send a target into complete darkness; this
darkness being a place where friends, family, LOVE and hope no longer exist, if the system is successful
in its goal to completely isolate its target for further psychological torture.
Gangstalkers are kept up-to-date on the things happening in the life of the targeted individual, because
no matter who the target comes in contact with or where, they all behave the same towards the target,
based on how you have responded to their constant harassment. If they feel they have been successful
at making you miserable, they all greet you with a smile when they see you followed by acts of kindness.
If they have not been successful in their goals, they still greet you with a smile which is followed by more
intense methods of harassment. They tend to be overly kind at times, in order to mask the tactics they
use against the target in that target's daily setting.
It is a collective effort on their parts. In my past experience in Hollywood, Florida, whatever the
professors, homeless people, law enforcement, shopkeepers cannot achieve, the students are brought
in to handle and vice versa. In this community, whatever my co-workers could not achieve, the
community and police officers were brought in to achieve.
If you have been blacklisted, when you arrive to a new place, the stage has already been set for you to
fail; essentially, you are walking into a game of obstacles to overcome. If they are successful at moving
you into a community of gangstalkers, then, there is a very high chance one or many of your neighbors
have already been assigned with ways to harass you. Cameras and listening devices have already been
installed and are always active. Furthermore, certain communities may already have designated places
for target individuals where the script never chances; only the players. They design it to where you are
completely dependent upon them and whenever they want, they can decide to help you or not help
you. If they are helping you with a place to stay, they can kick you out, no matter the agreement.
Whatever they give to you is never sincere, because it is contingent upon your compliance. Whatever
promised will be slowly removed until you have no money, no place to live, or nothing to eat. They are
often very crueal in nature.
The Purpose of Installed Cameras
1. To watch your reactions to the bullying because you will most likely give a more honest reaction
behind closed doors where you think no one is watching
2. To see what you use most often, so that it can be brought up in storytelling, made unavailable at
shopping centers, or misplaced in/removed from the apartment
3. To see what you will be wearing for the day, so that when you just leave the apartment,
someone will be wearing the exact same thing or when you arrive at your destination, someone
there will be wearing the exact same thing
4. To know more exactly when you leave the apartment, so gangstalkers can take their positions to
harass you on the journey to your destination
S. To take away your sense of privacy
6. To gain access to usernames and passwords, credit card information, bank account information,
etc.
7. To gain access to knowledge of personal information like doctor visits, family visits, romantic
encounters, good news, bad news, etc
Essentially, the targeted individual's life is an open display 24 hours a day.
Concerning the gathering of personal information and tracking
1. Hacking into my computer to see what websites I visit
2. Installing listening devices and cameras
3. Aforementioned would reveal usernames, passwords, social security number, credit card
information, and other personal information
4. Edward Snowden, a formal employee of the National Security Association (NSA) revealed that
computer cameras and speakers could be switched on, even if the user had them both in off
mode
5. Cell phones (e.g iPhone, smartphones, etc) with GPS can be used as tracking devices to track
your location and contacts
6. Vehicles with GPS can also be used as tracking devices
7. Gangstalkers who are relatives and friends collect information about you and pass it on to the
system and other gangstalkers.
S. They text and call each other to give notification of your whereabouts and where you are
headed or might be headed.
9. Owners, managers, immediate supervisors and co-workers who gather personal information
from applications and conversation
10. Friends who were planted in my life and longtime friends who have been indoctrinated
11. Strangers who overhear conversations you have had with others and know your whereabouts by
chance
12. Facebook is a great stalking tool. They have access to all your pictures, places you have been,
and all the people you know. They use it to also do storytelling, for example, by posting an
image of something you just discussed with someone over the phone, because the person who
has access to the listening device in your apartment relays that message to them through text
messaging, I imagine. They may engage you in conversation via the chat room and somehow
work in a similar idea stated by someone with whom you just met for lunch. They may post a
video of a song that states clearly in the title what is happening in your life at that moment.
Other gangstalkers who you have never met will inbox you messages related to some recent
occurrence in your life be it the name of someone you just met or a place you just visited. Once
the system has collected as much information on you as possible, they begin to place
themselves in every crevice of your life.
All of these things allow the system to know your destination before you even arrive as gangstalkers
prepare for your visit taking note of what you buy, who you meet, where you shop and eat, and your
favorite hangout spots.
Because gangstalkers are victims themselves, they have very little if any remorse for their targets. Many
of them carry an air of importance, arrogance, and superiority when they are acting out their roles as
gangstalkers, while others give a sense of haste in order to finish the task at hand because they are
unwilling participants. For the latter, if given the chance, they would opt to leave the system. On the
other hand, those who carry that air of superiority, enjoy very much living their double lives. When they
strike, they do it with a mischievous smile. The following are some other things I have gathered about
them:
a. They are being paid for their participation in money or in climbing social status. This is one of
the main ways, the system is able to control them. For example, many of the students who
were my forwards, were on the brink of graduating. One student came to me and told me he
had received an e-mail informing him he would not be able to graduate from the Biomedical
Sciences program at Barry University because of a provision he had not met. However, he had
been told months or a year before that it would not be necessary to meet complete that
provision and all of sudden, there he was gangstalking me. There was a lot of aggression and
arrogance in his energy, when initially, he was extremely pleasant and complimentary. It is how
it always begins with them. They draw you end with pleasantries and finish you off with insults.
For me, it was easy to tell I was the provision.
b. They hide in the open.
c. Gangstalkers, of course, play different roles than others. Some mild be required to do mild
gangstalking, while others may be required to commit more severe acts of cruelty. The more
you gain from this system, the higher your debt to it.
d. Gangstalkers who refuse to gangstalk are gangstalked.
e. They give small or huge acts of kindness somewhere along the journey to remove their guilt or
to draw you in for insults.
f. Not all gangstalkers know other members. Depending on the target, they are sometimes
brought together to harass the target in a group. One technique they use is to befriend the
target as a group. Initially, they are very friendly and giving, but the gangstalking by others
continue and never cease. It is as if the target is being tested to see if there is a reaction or not.
This is to test the cooperation or the ease of indoctrination. If the target cooperates with the
system by not reacting, the group of friends continue to be friendly and even helpful is there is
something the target needs. However, if the target displays opposition, that group of friends
become less friendly, giving, and helpful. They become less assessable by not showing up for
meetings or not answering calls or texts. They even start to show up in places the target
frequents, in order to make the target feel uneasy as to say they know where the target is at all
times though the target may not have a clue as to where they might be at any given moment.
g. Some are sympathetic and sometimes let the target know by giving a genuine HEARTFELT smile
or handshake.
h. Others wish you would just go ahead and pull the trigger already, so they can focus on
something else.
i. Many enjoy the game as they are by nature sociopaths, while some just like that James Bond
feeling.
j. I do not think all gangstalkers know the magnitude or severity of their actions. I think many
them play their role without knowing what other methods are being used harass the target. I
even believe that some of under the impression that system is trying to help the target. Some
are given small pieces of information about the target, while others may know more details. In
this way, the system can keep loyal members who will never question the actions of the system
with the aim of making the target look unreasonable and/or mentally dysfunctional.
k. They communicate with each other through mass texting, so distance is never a problem when
getting information through to other gangstalkers. Gangstalkers in Japan used an app called
Line that allows for group chatting.
I. All gangstalkers are responsible for each other in that they must keep tabs on each other, in
order to make sure everyone is playing their part. So, even if a gangstalker does not want to
comply, he or she will for fear of getting a bad report and having to face the consequences.
These methods are not only designed to harass the target, but to also keep the gangstalkers
compliant.
m. There is an endless supply of gangstalkers for one target which allows them to harass the
targeted individual for life.
n. Members of Cointelpro who do as they are told can be as good as they want to be or as bad.
One thing I have found true about members of this operation is that men and women alike are
given the freedom to sexually harass targets and they can go as far as they like depending on
how isolated their targets are.
o. Gangstalkers goal is to force the target into isolation. They would prefer it if a target stays inside
to keep their lives from being disrupted. Imagine, if you're in the middle of cooking dinner and
you get the text that the target is headed your way down your street. That means you have to
stop what you are doing and rush outside in time enough for the target to see you suspiciously
standing on the path.
p. Those who genuinely LOVE the target and show the target support are gangstalked as well or
pulled from the target's life as the goal is to force the target into complete isolation or
submission. If the system is unable to pull that LOVED one from the target's life, they become
targets as well. They could face demotions at work, receive slow service in places they shop,
become ostracized by the community, or worse. When I lived in Japan, I watched them
ostracize one of my 5 year-old students, because she expressed so much LOVE for me as her
favorite teacher. They would not allow her to play with the other kids and when they handed
out snacks, they would often overlook her. They hurt the ones that LOVE the target, in order to
emotionally hurt the target. It really is a shameless system.
I have always wondered how people could allow great atrocities like genocide, slavery of the hands and
ankles -shackled kind, or the Holocaust to occur. I have always thought that people are so wrapped up in
their own lives, they are just too busy to care and then, they wake up one day in the middle of massive
bloodshed and war, not knowing how they got there, but now I know better. It is not that people are
too busy to care. It is that people know, but choose not to care for fear of losing what they feel they
have worked so hard for and therefore, are consciously apathetic to the suffering of others as long as it
does not hinder them from climbing the ladder of social success or affect their LOVED ones. The tactics
used are designed for psychological warfare.
At this point, based on my experience with being a targeted person, I am certain in most cases
gangstalkers will expect my arrival at new destinations which is what I found to be true at Pioneer
Memorial Home. If I make the phone call and appointments follow, on my arrival, all gangstalkers on
the premises would have received notification of my expected arrival. If I have lived in a place for a
while, then my destination can be guesstimated fairly accurately as my routine would make this
possible. The only time I have ever been able to arrive at any destination with gangstalkers being
clueless is on unexpected visits to new locations that are not on my usual path or near where I live. If I
linger in those places, I have always noticed the managers or cashiers receiving phones with changes in
their behaviors towards me after hanging up the phone. On jobs I have had and targeted individuals
have, based on over a decade of experience with gangstalking, members of Cointelpro are directed to
do the following:
1. Sabotage work by giving misinformation, misplacing items, or not informing the target when
information has been changed
2. Give hostile instructions
3. Reject acts of kindness from the targeted person or returning those acts of kindness with acts of
ill -will
4. Give the targeted person little or no opportunity to offer assistance where the offer of
assistance is almost always declined only to be followed by a hostile directive to perform a task
that is trivial, not urgent or interferes with a task set to be performed at that moment
5. Make physical contact by either bumping into or brushing up against the target in some hostile
or vile manner
6. Obstruct the targets path
7. Do storytelling which includes giving information about the targets life through discussing recent
events that may or may not have happened in the gangstalkers life, but that bear a strong
resemblance to what recently took place in the targeted person' life
8. Harass on sexual nature either by making physical contact or inappropriate comments
9. Give praise on doing a good job to everyone over a period of time intentionally making sure the
target never receives such praise
10. Gaslight or deliberately give misinformation, in order to get the target to perform an
unnecessary task
11. Listen very carefully to what the target says and texting that information to other gangstalkers
during work hours
12. Whisper about the target, in a way that the target knows he or she is being discussed
13. Use language to imply threats of violence or death
Depending on location, members, and resources, tactics vary from location to location. What has been
aforementioned applies to my experiences at Pioneer Memorial Home in Orange City, Iowa. The goal of
gangstalkers is to humiliate, discredit, degrade, devalue, and dehumanize the target into a feeling of
isolation and ultimately, depression. It is a good thang I am very confident in who I am and know I will
always have GOD's LOVE or else all of this nonsense would have possibly worked.
The information to follow will describe events orchestrated by members of Organized Stalking that have
happened at Pioneer Home Memorial, in the community, and in places I have visited in Orange City,
Iowa.
These events will implicate police officers, but in no way is this meant to demonized the police force
which is one the major tactics of gangstalkers. When gangstalkers make contact with targets, they tend
to speak ill of police officers and give directed conversation about police officers, in order to taunt the
target as well as instill fear and hatred in the HEART of the target. This is done to keep the target from
retaliating against their gangstalkers and to cause the target to lose all hope of beating this system
because the police department, for many, is the last ray of hope. If police officers are members or
Organized Stalking, then if you cannot call on them for help, then who can you call? For many targets,
once they begin to feel no one can help them, I think this is when the mental breakdown begins. At this
point, I think they feel hopeless with only three choice staring at them: becoming members of
Cointelpro, having a mental breakdown, committing suicide, and while Cointelpro does not like to reveal
this outcome, committing homicide. I have written about this in other letters I have constructed, but it
was not until I read about Myron May's suicide/homicide that I began to understand the never-ending
mass shootings in the US. My guess is that a significant number of mass shooters are targeted people
who have lost all hope with only one thing on their mind, vengeance. To the public, the victims are
viewed as random people, but to the target, these are their gangstalkers and I am sure that many of
them do not care if they are known gangstalkers or not as they have concluded everyone is guilty. It is
so evident, especially when you read about how they start shooting in one place and by the time they
are taken out or end things themselves, they would have committed homicide at two or three more
locations; all locations where gangstalkers may reside. These mass shootings often result in suicide as
targeted people know their fate once captured, so they take their fate into their own hands. I am going
to say it as I have stated it before in my other letters, there is no way on this GOD's given planet that I
would ever resort to suicide or homicide. You do not allow a system not of GOD to end your life in this
way, because if you believe in GOD in the way you should, you know HE is the only one in control. You
should know HE will always have the last laugh or say so. So, you do not take such a precious gift as life
from anyone, not even from yourself, based on the foolish acts of others. If you fear man, then you do
not fear GOD and those who do not truly fear GOD are capable of anything. Now back to my feelings
about the police. Let it never be said that Sharmeen Jones has hatred or fear in her HEART for the police
force. To hate the police force would mean to hate the world, because no man's or woman's
wrongdoing in this game is greater than another. Everyone has the ability to put a stop to it. Just a
thought - there exists a hierarchy in society where by which civilians are at the very bottom in the chain
of command. In fact, if any one group called it quits, it would be hard for this illegal fraction of
government to function, so with that said, we all carry the weight of responsibility on our shoulders for
crimes committed against humanity in this fashion. In fact, if anyone holds the most power, it would be
civilians, because without civilians, everyone's job becomes null and void. Yes, police officers have taken
an oath to protect and serve humanity to the best of their ability, but you should not have to take an
oath to make this your priority as well. As I have said before, I think the police take a lot of heat for
crimes that many of us also commit against humanity. Besides, police officers who truly stand by their
oath to serve and protect are great at what they do and they are still in the mix. As long as this is true, I
will always seek them out, because I have been fortunate enough to meet police officers who stand by
their oath since I began experiencing gangstalking. Patrolling me because I am a targeted individual
does not negate that fact.
Arrival to Orange City, Iowa
I arrived in Sioux Center, Iowa on March 1� 2016 at midnight. I am now living in Orange City, Iowa. On
my way out of Sioux Center to Orange City, there was a Sioux Center SUV pulling up to a stop sign as I
passed by around 1pm.
My friends (not sure if they see it this way) helped me move into the house in Orange City. Some time
after the move, the friend who is letting me stay in the house told me the key I had was the only key to
the house.
March 7th 2016 — OC communications came to install connect the TV and Internet. The older gentleman
was very professional, but the younger one was not. While here, he was way too focused on handling
my personal computer. He was going for it as if he had a mission, but I told him I did not want the
Internet directly connected to my computer. Yet, he insisted and I had to tell him multiple times no.
From this I could tell he was a member of Cointelpro with one goal in mind, to install something in my
computer that would give him easier access to it. He was rude when addressing me as crazy, after I
made a comment about something that was innocent and trivial. He made other rude comments and
before he left, I said, "Be nice and stay away from those crazy people."
March 81h 2016—The older gentleman returned with the proper equipment to make the connections as
he did not have them the day before. The younger gentleman did not accompany him this time around.
While here, he behaved like a professional should and left.
March 10'h 2016 - I went out into town for the first time at around 8:OOpm to get some food from Taco
John's and snacks from the nearest convenient store. I did not notice anything too suspect.
March 151h 2016— I left the house about a quarter to 8pm and saw a police SUV turn at the traffic light
at approximately 8pm near Hardees heading in the direction of Vogel.
March 17`h 2016 — Visser Brothers Plumbing came to install a new toilet at the request of the person
overseeing the house. The plumber's name is Jim. While in the house and on his way out of the door,
he brushed up against my butt. After he left, he sent me a text message asking if he left his jacket
behind. I completely ignored the text as I could feel he was up to no good.
March 1Wh 2016 — I decided to go to the American State Bank on Highway 10 to deposit the money I
borrowed from the overseer of the house in which I am staying. I arrived at the bank just before
opening and finished at around 8:10am. As soon as I left the bank, Jim turned the corner and stopped
his truck right next to me. As he rolled down the window, he started taking stuff off the passenger seat.
Before he could get a word out, I started walking away and could hear him asking me if I wanted a lift to
which I replied, "No thanks." This was a form of gangstalking. The tactic is to send someone that you
have recently met in one location to a different location where you are currently visiting, in order to give
you the feeling you are being monitored by multiple people. It is made to look like a coincidence to
anyone who does not know what is happening, but to the target, it is meant to inform the target that his
or her every step is being watched closely. Gangstalkers always appear in new locations visited by
targets, in order to inform targets every place they visit is known by Cointelpro.
March 181h 2016 — March 26`h 2016 — During this time period, someone was entering the house while I
was away from the house.
March 22nd 2016 — I went to the library in town to scan some documents. I was assisted by a man who
looked to be in his 70s who has silky white hair. He would otherwise seem like a gentleman if he had
not been so abrasive in his attitude towards me. While helping me scan the items at the copier and
giving me instructions on how to scan, just before he instructed me to hit the Start button, he asked,
"Are you ready for some action?" Not really knowing how to respond to that, I said nothing and just hit
the Start button. After doing so, he said, "It may not be the kind of action you are looking for, but it's
what you are going to get." Ignoring him, I asked how much I owed for the scan and he told me nothing.
This is also a tactic used in Organized Stalking. Members are intentionally rude to you, but many of
them are aware they are wrong. So, to keep from being held accountable for their bad behavior, they
shell out an act of kindness. As I was leaving after checking my e-mail to see if I had received the scan, I
thanked him and said good-bye, but he was still giving me cold vibes. Feeling as if his statement was
extremely disrespectful, I asked, "What did you mean by it may not be the kind of action you are looking
for?" He seemed more pleasant this time around because a customer had walked up to the front desk.
He responded, "I did not mean anything by it," to which I responded, "I was just making sure if you were
being a gentleman or not" He responded, "I was being a gentleman," to which I responded, "Sure you
were." As I turned to walk away, he said, "I'm sorry," as the customer walked slowly behind me. There
is no way to always be 100% certain you are being gangstalked. Targeted people must rely on past
experiences and judge how they correlate with current experiences that are similar. In this case, I would
say, this man knew who I was before I walked in the door and was prepared to intentionally be vulgar
which is a common tactic for gangstalkers. On my way back, a police SUV appeared near Arizona Street
and 3`d Street as I walked home.
March 22nd 2016 - I went to Pioneer Memorial Home for an interview, got the job, and started on the
same day. Before I sat down, I knew Mr. Verlyn Netten knew of me, before I even spoke. It was how he
shook my hand and how he greeted me which was not much of a greeting at all. He did not ask me to
begin or to have a seat. He just sat in a cold silence. So, I just sat down and thanked him for giving me
the interview, in order to break what felt like a room filled with ice. The job advertised for an assistant
cook, but in the interview, Mr. Netten told me they decided to give the job to the current dishwasher
and they would therefore need a dishwasher. At the moment he said it, from the inflection in his voice
and the expression in his face, I knew I was being given that position as a means to humiliate me which
is another common tactic of gangstalking. As a targeted individual under 24/7 surveillance, no matter
where the target goes in this life, gangstalkers in that location will be given notification of the target's
expected arrival. From my I" day on the job, I gathered Mr. Netten, Ms. Heather Schoenrock, Mr. Art
Van Riesen, and Mrs. Maria E. Sanchez were and are members of the Cointelpro Survellience Program.
Both Mr. Netten and Mr. Van Riesen made a point to stress that I was a dishwasher to enforce the
feeling of having to do a degrading job. Though this was their intention, I never once felt the job was
beneath me. I was happy to have the job, because it gave me a flow of income. After doing so, Mr.
Netten asked for Mr. Van Riesen's phone to take a picture of me standing with Mr. Van Riesen at the
dishwasher. From my past experiences, I learned it is also a common tactic of gangstalkers to take
pictures of targets leaving a location and arriving at a new one to send out to local gangstalkers and
those at -large, in order to verify the target's move from one location to the next. I assume it is a way of
making sure they are targeting the right person. They are quite bold when sending information out
about you. Often, they will text every word you say to other members of Cointelpro as you speak right
in front of your face. This was the case on this day by Mr. Van Riesen.
Later that evening at home, I noticed for the first time a missing pack of saltines crackers from the box. I
finished off one pack, but left the other 3 because they were stale days before. When I looked in the
box on this day, there were only 2 packs in the box. Immediately, I knew someone had been in the
house and there had to have been more than one key to the house; that or someone was picking the
lock. As I have written many times before, gangstalkers will enter the dwelling of the target to either
take things or move things around. Because there are cameras installed in the dwelling, the things
stolen or misplaced or things that the target have recently handled as to create the illusion of
forgetfulness or to let the target know a camera is in the home by repeatedly entering the target's home
and repeating the tactic over a period of time until the target has received the message. The target will
notice some items missing immediately, while others will go unnoticed until the target needs to use
those particular items. If you can recognize it soon enough, things will start to go missing the day after
you handle them by simply picking them up or taking them off. They call this ghosting in gangstalking. It
is meant to make you question your sanity and to make you move, if gangstalkers feel they can no
longer tolerate your presence.
For your information, I have listed the days I worked at Pioneer Home Memorial as well as the daily
routine for breakfast, dinner, and supper. My days of work are as follows: March 22nd, March 23`d
March 26th, April Is', April 4th, April 7th, April 10th, April 11th, April 15th, April 16th, April 22A, April 25th,
April 28th, May 5th, and May 7th 2016. 1 started work on March 22nd 2016. In April, I was given 10 days of
work and in May, it was reduced to 8 days. I was fired on May 7th 2016 with no advanced notice. After
reading this letter in its entirety, you will see I was harassed nearly every day. Gangstalkers instruction
is to never let the targeted individual relax.
As for the daily routine, the cook arrives at about 5:25am to start preparing for breakfast and the
dishwasher arrives at about 6:25am. Breakfast is served at about Sam and finishes at about 8:30am. A
coffee break begins for staff at about 9:30am and finishes at 10:00am. Dinner is served at about Ilam
and finishes at about 11:30am. The afternoon break begins at about 12:15pm at which time the
employees clock out. The cook arrives at 2:30pm and the dishwasher arrives at 3:30pm. Supper is
served at about 5pm and finishes at about 5:30pm. The work day ends at about 6:15pm. My main job
was to set the tables for dinner and supper as well as wash the dishes.
March 23`d 2016 - On my way to work, a police SUV met me at the corner of Florida Avenue and 5"
Street Avenue, just as I was turning onto Florida Avenue at around 6:OOam. As we sat on our coffee
break, Mr. Van Riesen asked me to sit next to him and it felt very orchestrated. He mentioned that he
had driven Mrs. Sanchez by the house I'm staying in to show her where I lived. Why was that so
important to mention? I felt there was something gangstalkerish behind it, so I ignored it. We all sat
there and chatted. As we chatted, I talked about how I took the cheese wagon to school, referring to
the yellow school bus. Everyone seem to like the nickname and got a kick out of it. I then said that we
called the Greyhound bus "the dog." Then out of nowhere, Mr. Netten asked, "What do you call a cop
car?" It was the second suspicious comment he made which led me to believe he was being
intentionally inappropriate. It was evident we were talking about vehicles, but it still seemed to be
deliberately offensive as his tone was so matter-of-fact. One tactic used by members of Cointelpro is to
taunt the targeted person with their knowledge about the target being patrolled by police vehicles and
it is also meant to instill fear of and hatred for police officers. No doubt it was connected to the police
vehicle I saw earlier that morning. They took pleasure in it because when Mr. Netten said it, he laughed
as he did. I responded with, "I don't think we had a name for police cars," but Mrs. Mrs. Albers
responded, "There are names, but they aren't very good ones." So, I quickly went on to talk about
something else, because I knew Mr. Netten's intentions were less than innocent. While Mr. Van Riesen
and I washed dishes, Ms. Schoenrock asked, "Did you say your mother was dead," just out of the blue. I
gave her a less than favorable answer and kept on working. When targeted individuals began new jobs
or schools, it is the gangstalkers job to plant seeds of fear and threats. The word "dead" is often used to
instill worry with hopes of forcing compliance on the target. Also, as Mr. Van Riesen and I washed
dishes, he deliberately took his arm and brushed it up against my butt and then, as he was putting the
trays away that we used to wash the dishes, he positioned his arms in a way that had me basically
pinned up against the counter of the sink. Stepping forward would have caused me to touch him, so I
tried to wait, but he lingered way too long. Finally, I said, "Excuse me," and I pushed my way out of the
hold as his grip let up on the counter sink. One very disgusting tactic of Cointelpro is to sexually
harass/humiliate its targets and this is done in varying ways. Targets are pretty much isolated from
society which means they have little or no meaningful relationships with people. Friendships and
romantic encounters are placed at a halt. Because of this isolation, gangstalkers believe targets to be
desperate for companionship. In my case, I am constantly approached by male gangstalkers for sexual
favors. Initially the goal was to indoctrinate me by luring me into a relationship with a member of
Cointelpro. Once in the relationship, it would be extremely easy to control every aspect of my life as I
would be too beat down, too desperate, and too lonely to resist any affection or romantic advances.
Thank GOD I am too smart for that crap. Once the program fails at this attempt, they start to use tactics
of sexual humiliation by touching the target in some inappropriate manner or using sexually
inappropriate language in conversation, through text, or through social media networks like Facebook
(Please See Picture 1). Because they have access to my computer and e-mail accounts, hackers have
flooded my computer with pop ups and spam of a pornographic nature. In addition to this, targets can
experience being sex trafficked which is a common tactic where a target will find themselves being
passed from one gangstalker to another. This happens because each attempt at a normal relationship
fails without the target knowing the real reason why. If they start to behave in a manner agreeable with
Cointelpro, then the gangstalkers are allowed to stick around. If they do not, gangstalkers get what they
want and leave, but the targeted individual is unaware this is happening thinking the relationships are
not working out because of the normal reasons relationship sometimes do not work out. New
gangstalkers are sent and the cycle keeps repeating itself. Essentially, if a target does not comply or
realize it, they will be used as sexual favors for gangstalkers who themselves are hard up for intimacy as
some gangstalkers are placed into isolation as well until Cointelpro deems them worthy of a
relationship. Furthermore, it only works to Cointelpro's benefit to have both people in a marriage or
romantic relationship members of Cointelpro. The only other option is to have at least one member
involved who is able to easily manipulate the one who is not. For example, any time I have ever tried to
make friends with someone who I knew was not a member, their gangstalking partner would always find
a way to sever my ties with that person by pretending not to like me, needing to spend time with that
person at times we had plans to meet, orjust simply gangstalking me with storytelling in the presence of
that friend. All methods are used to keep targeted individual out of meaningful relationships with
anyone. Targeted individuals literally find themselves living a existence without friends, LOVE, or
intimacy.
March 261h 2016—As we sat on our coffee break, Mr. Van Riesen came in and was very aggressive about
wanting me to tell him if Mr. David Van Peursem's wife was dead. He had asked me about it on March
23rd 2016, so this time around I just told him it was not my business and if he wanted to know, he
needed to ask someone who had been living in this town for longer than a month. He kept insisting, so I
decided to just give him the silent treatment. Finally, he gave up and left. When I returned from the
afternoon break to set up for supper, I headed for the refrigerator to £II the pitchers with milk. Before I
could, Mrs. Sanchez stopped me and yelled at me to give her a head count for supper. It was not
something I had been trained to do yet, so I was completely taken off guard seeing as how it was only
my second full day of working with no assistance from anyone. So, I stopped doing that and went out to
set the tables, but then she told me she could not wait for me to set the tables, because she needed the
head count right away. It seemed impossible for me to get her the head count without first setting the
tables, because I had not quite learned the names of all the residents and did not know how many
people actually came for supper. Though there are name tags of the residents on the table, I still had
not understood the seating system, if everyone always came for supper, or if some name tags were
missing. I was not even sure if a place was still prepared for those who did not come and if they did not
show, whether or not we delivered their meals to their rooms. So, at that point, I was taken aback by
Mrs. Sanchez tone of urgency to have me give her the number when she is the longest working staff
member of Pioneer Memorial Home and she arrived one hour before I did, in order to prepare the
meals. The cook would have to know the number of people expecting to eat before the dishwasher
arrived, in order to know how much to prepare for any one dish. As I was processing all of this in my
head, I did the only thing I felt I could do. I decided to take the names from seating chart in the kitchen
though I had been told by Mr. Van Riesen it was outdated and compare the names on the seating chart
to the name tags at the table. I gave Mrs. Sanchez the number and then she told me a few people
would not attend supper because they called earlier to notify the kitchen of their absence. Even
though it was written as one of my responsibilities, I was still confused as to why she could not do that
count in the hour she was there before I arrived, if it were that urgent to have the head count. In fact, I
did not mind giving her the number, but it was the anger and aggression in her tone that did not make
sense to me. Earlier, Mrs. Rose Mary Te Grotenhuis (a night sitter) placed a container of dishes on the
counter. She placed the heavier dishes closest to the edge, so that when I took the lighter ones from
the container, the container capsized, causing the coffee mugs to fall and break. As I continued to work,
everyone kept saying, "It's OK, we all make mistakes," and after it was said the third time feeling as
though I was being blamed for something I was not completely responsible for, I said, "That was not
completely my fault," without saying anything more. When I worked with Mrs. Sanchez later, she said,
"I heard you broke cups?" At that point, I felt the need to explain what had happened and told Mrs.
Sanchez that I could not take full responsibility for them being broken and then I asked, "Why is it such a
big deal, but everyone keeps saying it isn't?" A tactic of gangstalking is to sabotage a target's work and
repeat the offense until the target begins to feel guilty for something that was orchestrated for the sole
purpose of arousing guilt. Creating fault in the target is a common tactic of gangstalkers, but if the
target actually makes a mistake, it is rarely ever mentioned, until it is needed to support a false claim.
Targets must be repeatedly made aware of set ups that are designed to tarnish their image.
Upon returning home, I noticed that an intruder had entered the house and wanted me to know they
had been inside. Before I left that morning at about 6:OOam, the light closest to the door leading to the
laundry area in the basement was on. The middle light and the one closest to the wall were off. When I
returned for the afternoon break at around 12:45pm, the one closet to the door was off and the middle
light had been switched on. Shortly after moving in, the guardian of the house made a point to let me
know there was only one key. So, I sent her a text asking if she or her husband had come to the house
while I was away and she answered no; neither one of them had come to the house that day. Besides, if
they had, how would they have been able to come inside the house with the doors locked and there
being only one key? The guardian then asked, "Could it have been the plumber?" I responded, "Does
the plumber have a key?" This was also connected to Mr. Van Riesen's comments about showing Mrs.
Sanchez where I lived. A common tactic for gangstalkers is to notify the target of events that have
happened or will happen. It is a tactic used to increase paranoia and let the target know the people with
whom they work closely are gangstalking them. This creates a hostile and uneasy working environment
for the target which is meant to force the target into compliance or leaving the job.
March 301h 2016 — I received a phone call from an unknown number and when I answered it, Mr. Van
Riesen was on the other end. Immediately, I asked why he was calling and he responded by saying Mrs.
Mrs. Sylvia Busby (the cook) wanted to talk to me, before meeting me for the first time on the next day.
Before he could finish, I told him to never call my number again. I continued with, "Why would you call
someone who has obviously shown you they want nothing to do with you?" He was speechless and
before I hung up, I told him because I never gave him my number, he should not be calling me for
anything. Afterwards, I called Mr. Netten and asked him if he had asked Mr. Van Riesen to call me and
he told me no. So, I proceeded to tell him I did not ever want Mr. Van Riesen calling me for any reason.
I did not say why. I just told him because I did not give Mr. Van Riesen my number, he had no business
calling me up, especially to introduce me to someone I was going to meet anyway the next day. Mr.
Netten said OK and I got off the phone. A tactic of gangstalkers is to try to make the target feel as
uncomfortable as possible by any means necessary 24/7, even on your days off. They can come up with
all kinds of things to trouble the target when they know they are going to see that target, but they have
to think of ways to also disrupt That target's peace of mind when they do not have physical access to the
target. He knew from my body language and my silence that I did not approve of him on March 26`h
2016, but yet, he called me to introduce me to another worker which is not protocol. Even if he had
called me for something that was truly work-related, I would have asked him to arrange it through Mr.
Netten, but this was nothing of the sort. He was gangstalking me under the guise of getting me
acquainted with a co-worker. Seriously?
April 15'2016 — When I arrived to work, I was greeted by Mrs. Busby. She seemed nice enough and the
day carried on without a glitch. However, before the day ended, I asked Mrs. Busby about the head
count. I told Mrs. Busby that Mrs. Sanchez pretty much bit my neck off when asking for it days before
and I wanted to know why. I explained to her I knew it was my responsibility to do the head count, but
if it was normal procedure for cooks to wait for the dishwasher to do the head count before they started
preparing for supper? She told me no because if they did, they would have to wait for the dishwasher to
arrive before they could do the measurements, mixing, and other things required for cooking which
would not give them enough time to finish cooking if the meal required a lot of time for preparation.
She then went on to say that Mrs. Sanchez was used to Mr. Van Riesen doing everything for her even if
it were not his responsibility. Honestly, whether it was true or not, I only wanted to know the normal
procedure, if that procedure varied from cook to cook and as the dishwasher, what role was I expected
to play, in order to do my job effectively. It just felt as though Mrs. Sanchez was trying to bully me and
based on my experience with gangstalking, I felt it was related to my encounters with Mr. Van Riesen. If
a target shows opposition to one gangstalker, then another gangstalker is given instructions to be
hostile to the target on their next encounter. Nearing the end of the work day, Mrs. Te Grotenhuis
arrived to work and she kept coming in and out of the kitchen and just as we were finishing up, she kept
stressing the words "black car," in directed conversation. She must have repeated it two or three times
and the last time she said it, she was facing me. On my way home, a black Mustang crossed by path
with the license plate # BHY 055 Iowa. It was the third time I saw that car, but I could not be sure if the
driver was a gangstalker until this day.
April 2nd 2016—An SUV police vehicle passed me on Arizona Street not more than a minute after leaving
the Old Factory at about 7:30pm.
April 0 2016 — At around 3:12pm on my way back to work at Pioneer Memorial Home, a police SUV
passed right by me not even 30 steps from the house. When I got to work, Mr. Van Riesen, was standing
in the kitchen with Mrs. Sanchez as a way to intimidate me. Police activity was always around me, it
seemed, whenever I had an encounter with Mr. Van Riesen. It was not his day to work, but I am sure if
you asked him why he was there, he would have a good answer already prepared. Mr. Van Riesen
spoke as I got closer to the kitchen, but I did not return the gesture. Mr. Van Riesen left within a minute,
after I arrived in the kitchen. Mrs. Sanchez spoke with eagerness as soon as I got into the kitchen which
was odd, because I was the one always having to speak first. She was a bit confrontational and asked if
something was wrong because as she said it, "You've changed. You've become quiet." I responded, "I
am here to focus on my work," and walked out of the kitchen. She was right, I tend to give verbally
abusive people distance though I did not allow it to affect my work ethic or professionalism in the
kitchen. When I finished my work, I made sure to ask her if she needed help. Before ringing the bell, I
asked if she was ready, to which she gave a slightly hostile response. Throughout the day, she became
very combative and dismissive. At one point, she moved the dishes I was soaking in the other sink to
where the steamer was and said, we never use this sink in the evening. So, I asked why and she said,
you just can't. I think she must have called Mr. Netten, because he returned but did not stay for long.
He just stood behind me, walked over to the calendar, and walked out of the kitchen. Mrs. Sanchez left
earlier than usual. I called him after Maria left using Mrs. Mary Van Gelder's (the night sitter) phone and
ask if it was prohibited to use the sink and he said no. He explained that Mrs. Sanchez was very nice and
I explained I was very nice too, but barking orders at someone was not very nice. I clocked out and
when I got home, I thought it would be a good idea to go to the police station to see if I was being
patrolled for some reason, because of the numerous times I had been seeing the police around. When I
got there, the office was closed. So, I went to Don's Food Center. As soon as I walked out, some guy on
a bicycle said, "Oh, you're not working today?" I turned and asked, " Who are you?" and he said he was
the bread delivery guy who saw me working at Pioneer Memorial Home when he delivered bread there.
Almost immediately, I stopped talking to him, because I knew I was being gangstalked. Gangstalkers are
very in your face when they approach you. They never greet you. They simply say something in
attempts to make you feel uneasy and in a way that suggests they have information about your
whereabouts. On that note, I decided to return to the police station to wait for them to return as a
young lady who was teaching a dance class told me they usually return from patrolling by 8pm. At
around 8pm, a police officer returned. Officer Bob Van Zee spoke with me for about an hour.
Throughout the course of our conversation, I asked him if his police department had received any
information about me that would give them cause to patrol me. Without looking at anything, he said
they had not received any information on me and where I often saw the police vehicles was a common
street for them to be on. I told him I was a targeted individual of the Cointelpro Surveillance
Program/Organized Stalking. I left my name, number, and address, after giving him a brief description
of what I was experiencing. He told me he had never heard of the organization, but assured me I was
not being patrolled. He seemed genuine and in the weeks to come I did not see as many police vehicles
as before. Before I left, I took the e-mail addresses of the Chief of Police and City Administrator, in order
to send them information about my experiences. After visiting the police station, I was hoping it would
have to come to this.
In the week of April 3rd and April 10th, as I served coffee and tea, I guessed that Mrs. Sanchez was
speaking ill of me to Mrs. Netten, because every time I would sit down, she would stop talking and give
me the evil eye. Giving her polite conversation while we sat at the staff table, she would return the
conversation in kind, but when Mrs. Netten would turn her head, she would stop smiling and just stare
at me as if I was a long time enemy. I expected as much, so I was not surprised. When you stand up for
yourself against verbally abusive people, I do not like it. If can abuse you, they like you. If they can't,
then they don't. Mrs. Netten seemed unbiased as she took care to engaged us both equally in
conversation. I had not detected a malicious bone in her body yet as she seemed to be an extremely fair
person who tried her best to remain neutral.
April 7th 2016 — The day seem to go without hassle, but right as I was finishing the last few dishes, Mrs.
Sanchez asked me to do her a favor. A Guatemalan young man she knew had been pulled over by police
officers in Sioux Center, Iowa and was caught driving without a license. She needed a licensed driver to
go with her to drive their car home for them. She told me I was the only person who could help her at
that moment. Suspicious of her motive, I was reluctant to agree to do it, but then I decided to because I
may have very well been the only person who could have helped her and if that had been true, I would
have regretted not helping her. So, I decided to do it and if it had anything to do with gangstalking, then
I would let GOD deal with it. As soon as we pulled off of Colorado Avenue onto 160, a police SUV was
right in front of us. At that moment, she started to tell me a story of receiving a ticket from a police
officer in Mexico for running a red light, when she was pregnant. We talked some more until we arrived
to Sioux Center where the young man and his friend were waiting, but the police officers who pulled
them over were nowhere in sight. Without wasting any time, I got in the driver's seat and drove them
to Granville though I did not know this is where we were going until we got there. On the way to
Granville, I asked the young man why he did not have a license, but he did not divulge the reason. His
friend got out at some pizza joint on 160 and I continued on to Granville. Though I was helping him, he
was not very friendly. I dropped him and his car off at what appeared to be his home, while Mrs.
Sanchez waited in front of the house to pick me up. Before I got in the car, the young man finally
thanked me though it did not seem too genuine. When I got in the car, I asked her why he did not have
a license and she told me he did not have his papers. I found it all to be very suspect because I figured
the police officers would have known that and not let him and his friend go. Then, Mrs. Sanchez told me
the police officers probably made them pay money, in order to avoid being detained. She knew because
she knows of a woman with four kids in Orange City who had to pay $800 for two tickets. The police
officer watched and waited for her to get into her car, knowing she should not be driving. Then stopped
her and made her pay a large amount each time, in order to stay out of trouble is what I gathered from
her statements. My response was, "That's illegal right?" The entire time, I was laughing and giggling
with her though I felt like she was being less than honest. In my case, gangstalkers always tell me stories
to place police officers in a bad light, because I have so strongly resisted their efforts. In order for the
system to be truly effective, they must make their targets feel hatred and fear for the police as I have
stated before. This entire event seemed orchestrated, but there was no way to tell if it were true or not.
Shortly after pulling onto Colorado Ave off of 160, a police SUV passed us just before arriving at my front
door. Whether what Mrs. Sanchez was saying about the police was true or not, I felt this had everything
to do with my visit to the police station on April 4th 2016. 1 was seeking help from the police, but the
events that occurred that day were orchestrated by gangstalkers in order to cancel out my efforts, Mrs.
Sanchez being a major player. I should have trusted my instincts and told her to find someone else.
Gangstalkers rarely have sincere intentions for targeted individual, especially for the ones that are their
targets. There will always be an ulterior motive. I would suggest speaking to Mrs. Sanchez about this
matter to see if what she is saying is true.
April 10th 2016 — On this day, I worked with Mrs. Busby and it just seemed like from start to finish, she
was doing everything she could do to upset me, but I kept right on working. It was an easy morning,
leaving Mrs. Busby and Ms. Rosario Vasquez (an assistant cook) with a lot of down time. When they
were finished with their duties, Mrs. Busby turned to Ms. Vasquez and asked her if they should help me
which I thought was odd, because I thought the rule was to help others when a worker finished with his
or her duties. I did not say anything and while Ms. Vasquez tried to help, Mrs. Busby did not. As I was
working hard and diligently, Mrs. Busby came over using an aggressive tone, "Are you finished yet? I
need to drain this chicken." The dishwashing area was packed. There were dishes loaded, dishes in the
washer, and dishes waiting to be collected. If you are going to demand I finish quickly, then at least
have the decency to help me unload, so that I would be able to help you. About 5 minutes later, she
came back with the same question and like before, I did not answer, because of the tone she was using.
By this time, I was nearly finished. So, she took the ones that had just finished washing out of the
washer, but she did not unload them. They were the last load, so I dried them and put them away. By
the time I had finished, she left and went to the back. After I finished, I decided to drain the chicken for
her and when she came back in to see me doing it, she was taken off guard. She did not say thank you,
but instead said, "You did not have to do it." I responded by saying, "Why not, if I am finished with my
job and have nothing else urgently to do?" At this point she told me thank you, but it was one of the
most disingenuous "thank yous" you have ever heard. It was the same treatment I received from Mrs.
Sanchez the week before which has always been unwarranted and deliberate. Furthermore, to show
me spite, Ms. Busby and others would often pretend to help me, but not really give 100%. They would
slow their work down to keep from helping me and would often leave the kitchen to send text messages
from their phones. The goal was to cause disruption of my work, upset, belittlement, and humiliation in
front of another co-worker, all common tactics of Organized Stalking.
April 11`h 2016 — The day went on and as I stood loading dishes into the dishwasherjust after the coffee
break, Mrs. Busby asked me when I was going to fill the bread tray, because she needed a piece to take
with her before she left. There were still 30 minutes left before it was time to ring the bell for the
residents to come to dinner. Even still, the required amount of bread was already in the tray which is
three pieces and in fact, there were four pieces inside. I was told by Mr. Van Riesen on training day I did
not have to have more than three pieces of bread inside the tray and if a resident wanted more, then I
could just return to the kitchen to get more. Everyone who was in the kitchen at the time he said it
agreed with him. When Mrs. Busby said it, it was as if she wanted Mrs. Albers to hear it. I did not go
over at that time, because it seemed as if she was micromanaging and instigating mess all at the same
time. If she wanted bread, she had the freedom to take the bread as there was more than enough
inside. The bread container still had half a bag of white bread and a whole bag of wheat inside. So,
when I got over there to see that no bread needed to be added, I added one more piece for the sake of
argument. As I did so, Mrs. Busby was standing behind me waiting and then I said to her, "You did not
have to wait for me. You could have taken the bread at any time. There is more than enough bread
here." She paused for a few seconds and went on to say that she was waiting for me to fill the tray,
because she did not want to take bread if I needed it. She was covering her mischief, because there was
more than enough bread in the tray and in the container. She tried to say she had no idea about the
amount needed and then Mrs. Albers jumped in to support her claim which was all untrue, as a note
with the required amount and who gets that amount is posted on the front of the bread container. How
could she not know? Simply, she was running mess. She could not upset me on the day before, so she
was still trying to do it with Mrs. Albers' support. I could see Mrs. Albers head turning as she was
dissatisfied with my response, so in support of Mrs. Busby, she stopped what she is doing to tell me I
was filling up the pitchers wrong, as I stood at the water fountain. She told me the way I was doing it
was wasting time, but I did not feel as if it was. I was filling it up in the way that was easiest for me and
her coming over to give me her opinion was not her being helpful. It was her supporting Mrs. Busby,
because she still had not succeeded in degrading me in the way she wanted. Mrs. Albers needed to find
fault in something I was doing, in order to set the record straight. So, I explained to Mrs. Albers I tried it
her way before and it was actually more difficult for me, so I started filling the pitchers in the way she
saw me doing it. I went on to finish my responsibilities and finished with 5 minutes to spare long
enough to tell Mrs. Albers and Mrs. Busby that micromanaging me was interfering with my ability to
learn what to do without having to be told every step of the way. I figured that on any other day, Mrs.
Albers could have very well been trying to help me, but because Mrs. Busby brought her into the mess, I
could no longer see her advice as being helpful. I was being double teamed and felt the need to stand
up for myself. In fact, I had never had an issue with Mrs. Albers, but that day changed everything for
her. After that day, Mrs. Albers became distant and less friendly.
Just before going home, I decided to talk to Mr. Netten about what was happening with my co-workers.
However, he was not there. So, I spoke with Mrs. Netten instead. I explained by telling her everything
that had transpired on April 10`h 2016 and earlier that day with Mrs. Busby and Mrs. Albers. I also talked
to her about Mrs. Sanchez's hostile tone of voice. Speaking with care, I told Mrs. Netten I understood,
as a new worker, responsibilities would be repeated by my co-workers as no one would know what I had
been told or had not been told by other co-workers this early on. As such, I saw nothing wrong with
being told repeatedly what task needed to be completed and how to complete that task. My only
problem was how I was being told and that at some point, my co-workers needed to trust I could do a
task without being reminded to do so. I understood that maybe they wanted to make sure the task was
completed correctly, but if they kept constantly telling me to do something before giving me the chance
to do it, how was I ever going to learn without instruction? As I was finishing, Mr. Netten walked in and I
told him the main points. Both Mr. and Mrs. Netten agreed with me and told me they would speak with
my co-workers about my concerns. Mr. Netten then went on to say he knew Mrs. Busby could be
intimidating, because several people had problems with her. I responded, "I am not intimidated by
her," and when I did, Mr. Netten flinched in surprise. It almost felt like he wanted me to feel
intimidated by her and he was disappointed I was not. He went on to say she mistreated Mrs. Sanchez,
because she was Mexican. In addition to this, he told me she did not treat Mrs. Vasquez very well
either. I did not know what to say to that, because I never take such comments like that at face value.
They reduce people to nothing and I had not quite gotten a read on Mrs. Busby to know if this was true
or not. Moreover, Mr. Netten tried to excuse Mrs. Sanchez's behavior by saying she had to raise four
boys and was a school teacher. As such, these factors of her life caused her to be aggressive in her
speech. He continued by saying he understood if she too also seemed intimidating placing stress on
"intimidating." To this, I did not respond because I was not intimidated by Mrs. Sanchez either, but felt
Mr. Netten was stressing the point to make me feel so. I only told them that while I understood what
they were saying, there is a way to ask someone to do something for you. As an adult, I know this and
she should as well. They both agreed and told me not to concern myself with any of it. They would take
care of everything and ask everyone to allow me the chance to find my way of doing things as they had
all being given that same courtesy. They told me as long as I got the job done, they did not see any
problems. I thanked them and left for the afternoon break.
That evening as Mrs. Netten, Mrs. Sanchez, and I sat at the table, Mrs. Sanchez was hostile in her
conversation towards me right in front of Mrs. Netten and Mrs. Netten did nothing to correct her
attitude. From this, I knew I was being told whether I liked it or not, nothing was going to change.
Though I felt Mrs. Netten was being neutral, in the back of my mind, I felt I was witnessing something
more orchestrated and I was center stage.
April 111h, 12th, and 15th — When the residents were being served, a few of them would ask for coffee
mugs or utensils that I felt as though I had placed on the table for everyone. Initially, I thought it could
have been a mistake, because I was new to doing that task, but when it happened the second time, I
started to think something else was happening especially after noticing Mrs. Busby and Ms. Schoenrock
search my face for a reaction when residents complained about missing things from their table. So, I
started making sure to take a mental note of everything I had placed on the tables. Though I do not set
the tables in the morning, I noticed missing utensils from where I sat at the staff table on April 15th 2016.
April 150h 2016 — Besides the missing utensils, everything seemed OK. I washed the dishes and set the
tables. After setting the table, I wrote down the head count and placed it in its rightful spot. By the
time I finished, there were more dishes to wash. There were not many, but when I finished, Ms.
Schoenrock rushed over and collected them. She dried and put them away quickly. It was out of the
ordinary behavior, because for the entire morning, when she could have helped, she did not. It was not
apparent to me until he rushed over and grabbed the dishes before I could. It was only after I did the
head count that her behavior changed and it was a change I would not have noticed had her erratic
behavior not brought it to my attention. I was perfectly fine washing and putting the dishes away
myself. It felt very much connected to what had transpired between myself and Mrs. Sanchez on the
26th of March. I overheard Mrs. Busby telling Mr. Netten about the incident with Mrs. Sanchez at the
staff table and his response was that we needed to behave like a team, but why assume I was not being
a team player. I was new and if Ms. Busby had relayed the message to him in the way I had explained,
then why could he not see fault in Mrs. Sanchez's behavior? How could he not see that I was not used
to setting the tables yet, needed time in figuring out how to do it and that Mrs. Sanchez's inappropriate
tone of voice did not help the situation? Refusing to do a head count 'was something I never did, but it
just seemed like my co-workers were creating problems, in order to make my job difficult and justify
their wrongdoing. So, at this point, when anyone would come over to the dishwasher, I just told them I
could do it myself, because I found they were intentionally helping and not helping with malice in their
HEARTS which was affecting how well I did my job. Instead of placing all the dishes on the counter,
though there was space for them, they would leave them in a place where I would not notice them.
They started being petty in nature and I felt like they were siding with each other all because I would not
allow them to walk all over me, all tactics of gangstalking.
April 16`h 2016 - As we sat at the staff table, during breakfast, Ms. Schoenrock asked, "So, how are
things going with Maria?" I responded, "So, you heard about the problems we are having. I am not
surprised as gossip is common in the workplace. To answer your question, things are better. For the
first time, she was nice yesterday." Ten minutes before it was time to ring the bell (the time set to start
serving ice), Ms. Schoenrock asked in a very loud voice, "Who put the bread on the shelf? I responded,
"I did." Then with the fling of her hand, she said very rudely, "You, come with me." So, I went but not
for that reason. I had to get the ice and while we were back in the room where the ice and bread are
kept together along with other things, she started to speak and said, "Let's put the bread where it
should be," but when I realized she was using the same hostile tactic that Mrs. Sanchez and Mrs. Busby
had used, I left her back there and went to put the ice in the cups. After dinner was over and most of
the dishes were washed, I asked, "Are you angry about something, because when you were asking me
about the bread, you said it in a very angry tone?" Immediately, she started to say she was confused
and did not know why the bread was there and therefore, she did not know what to do with it, but this
totally contradicted how she was trying to treat me. She did not act confused. Her tone and directive
said otherwise. At that moment, I asked her why she decided to ask me about this at the time I needed
to serve ice and if she were confused, why not ask me why I placed the bread there? I continued to say I
put the bread out because though there was enough bread in the container on the kitchen counter, the
person having to serve bread in the next couple of days might not have enough. So, I put it out, so it
would be thawed already if they needed some. Because I had come in several times to work with the
container empty and no bread thawed causing me to use the microwave to thaw it and then toast it for
breakfast, I wanted to make the job easier for the person who was scheduled to work after me. She
then explained by saying if I looked at the menu, I would see not much bread would be needed in the
next few days. Therefore, I did not need to thaw any out, but because it had been thawed out, it had to
go in the container on the counter. At that moment, Mrs. Albers intervened and said we could always
refreeze it because it had only been thawed out not many hours before. Then, I turned to Ms.
Schoenrock and told her that it would be better if she asked me calmly about a certain action I have
taken, so that we could figure it out instead of yelling at me. This made her angry, because she went
over to where the cups were resting to dry and started to pat them in a very frantic motion while staring
at me with a look of disapproval. Then Mrs. Albers came over as I finished also with a disapproving look.
When I turned around, Mrs. Busby was to my right and Ms. Schoenrock was to my left as they stood
there with their hands on their hips as they stared at me with discontentment in their eyes. Mrs. Albers
left without saying good-bye, while Ms. Schoenrock lingered around a little while longer. She asked to
help with the utensils and I told her she did not have to, because it was the only thing left to do and I
had no problem doing it. It was not that I did want her help, because if it had been a genuine offer, I
would have taken it. I watched her several times deliberately leave dishes she could have put away, in
order to avoid helping me, but because I was going out of my way to do it all by myself, she was forcing
it on me. When I expected help, they rarely gave it, but when I became guarded because of the games,
they pushed it on me. Ms. Schoenrock just stood there even after all the dishes were washed and put
away. It was as if she was waiting for something and as I was using the disposal, she started speaking to
me. When I looked up, she said, "You left the disposal on." I mean, she was desperate to find fault and
point it out, even if she had to create it. She would not let up. It was so obvious she was deliberately
creating problems that were not there, so I moved and let her turn it off seeing as how she needed a
problem to fix. As she spoke, I tuned her out, because she was pushing for some kind of an argument.
After she realized I was not going to take the bait, she left. I found her to have a physically aggressive
personality as well. Throughout the entire day and the day before, she would calculate her steps and
my movement, in order to intentionally bump into me. Initially, I thought it was by accident, because
the kitchen is not very wide, but I soon realized she was deliberately being petty. So, on this day, when
she did it, I stood firm and let her bounce off of me which is exactly what happened. I am sure she
thought she bumped into a brick wall. When she apologized the third time for doing it, I just said,
"That's OK."
As I was shutting things off and preparing to leave, Mr. Bob and Mrs. Mary Van Gelder arrived for their
job as the night sitters. I had never met Mr. Van Gelder before and when he entered, he said, 'There
she is." He continued to stand in the doorway with a solemn look on his face, and when I said
something to the effect of, "So, you both come to sit with the residents overnight?" He responded by
saying, "Yes, we are here to keep them in line," but I felt that was meant for me. How do you keep
paying residents who are well into their 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s in line? How could they get out of Ijne?
At this stage in their lives, I imagined they are really relaxed and easy going people who welcome good
conversation and have a lot of good stories to tell. If that remark was indeed meant for them, I think it
was very disrespectful as people who have lived to be a certain age deserve automatic respect, even if
they do not give it. He went on to say something of how he would rather watch a game than be there
and I responded by saying, "It is more important to give the residents your time as they have come here
to live out their last days and we should make it as pleasant and comfortable for them as possible." On
that note, he turned and walked away. I responded to him this way because it was honestly how I felt,
but more because I found him to be rude. Mrs. Van Gelder stuck around and her conversation seemed
quite pleasant until we moved it over to the timeclock. As we stood there, she looked at me and said
with malice in her voice, "Don't step backwards. We wouldn't want you to fall down the stairs." It was
very apparent to me that both Mr. and Mrs. Van Gelder were members of Organized Stalking.
April 19`h 2016 — I was expecting my absentee ballot to arrive as it had to be postmarked on April 18th
2016, in order for my vote to be counted. As with many important letters and packages, post offices I
have dealt with before were infamous for not delivering my mail on time, holding it until they decided it
was good idea to deliver it, or misplacing it. I had a feeling deep down in my bones it would not arrive
until April 191h 2016 and it did. However, when I went to the post office and explained the importance
of the postmark, they kindly postmarked it for April 18th 2016. As I have mentioned in many letters
before this one, you can find Organized Stalking in nearly every vocation of life, but not everyone is
involved. So, there is always hope. A police SUV (tag number 500703) passed me near the corner of 3`d
Street and Central Ave SW around 1:20 pm on my way to the post office. It was the first time I had gone
out for the day.
April 22nd 2016 — Early that morning, I asked Mr. Netten if he had an e-mail address for Pioneer
Memorial Home and he said he did not. During the coffee break, I told Mr. Netten why I wanted the e-
mail address. I told him of the problems I had with Ms. Schoenrock and Mrs. Albers on April 15th and
16th 2016. 1 told them I caught them whispering behind my back about me and watched them boldly
speak ill of me right in front of my face. I explained my feeling about most of the people I worked with
in that I felt they were trying desperately to sabotage my work and bully me. For example, I felt Ms.
Schoenrock, most especially had been trying to find fault with my work performance. I gave him the
example of Ms. Schoenrock's unnecessary comments concerning the dishwasher disposal and attempts
to deliberately bump into me. So, I moved and gave her the honor of switching it off because she was
looking for a problem to fix. In that same conversation, I told him that Mrs. Busby and Mrs. Sanchez
have all done the same thing. I continued to talk about the bread incident with Ms. Schoenrock and at
that moment, Mr. Netten asked me to lower my voice. He did not want Mrs. Busby to hear our
conversation, because he told me he did not trust her. I told him I was there to do the job he trusted me
to do and would not allow my co-workers to bully me. He told me he understood and if I ever had a
problem with any of them in the future, I was to tell them to talk to him. As we stood at the staff table,
he told me that he knew Mrs. Busby and Ms. Mary Zeutenhorst (another dishwasher) both talked about
him behind his back, so he understood how I felt. I left and started to get ready for dinner.
It was time to start making the last preparations for dinner. As I was placing ice into the plastic cups
before it was time to ring the bell, I noticed that some of the plastic cups I placed on the tables had been
removed and when I looked up, Mrs. Busby was looking at me with a devilish grin on her face. She
continued to stand and watch me as I filled the plastic cups with ice. When I got to one of the resident's
place settings and placed ice in the plastic cup, she immediately came up behind me and switched out
cups for one that did not contain ice and then told me that particular resident did not like ice. So, I put
the cup back and told her that this particular resident never complained about the ice at which point she
tried to show me the list of dos and donts for the residents which I had used as a reference point before.
However, I was trained on my first day by Mr. Van Riesen and he did not mention her as one of the
residents who did not like ice as everything he told me, I wrote in my book. Then, I told Mrs. Busby the
list could be outdated because both she and Mr. Van Riesen informed me that the chart for the table
settings for each residents was outdated. I found her behavior petty and on top of this, while having
only 5 minutes to perform this task, she asked me to fill her personal cup with ice just after moving the
plastic cup from its rightful place. It is a gangstalking tactic to be rude to the target followed by a
request to force the target to do something nice for the gangstalker. This method of operation is
intended to degrade the target's self-worth. After devotion, I asked the particular resident in question if
she wanted ice in her cup or not and that I would be happy to take it away if she did not want it and her
response was that she did mind having ice with her water. So, I relayed that to Mrs. Busby who seemed
disappointed in the face of Ms. Vasquez that she failed at sabotaging my work. If what Mr. Netten said
was true about Mrs. Busby not liking Ms. Vasquez because of her ethnicity, then if she had been
successful at her game that day, it would have been a show of power for Mrs. Vasquez that would have
been meant to make Mrs. Vasquez afraid of Mrs. Busby.
It was time for supper and both Mr. and Mrs. Netten joined which was out of the ordinary, because only
one normally stayed around. Thinking it was because of what I said earlier, I waited to see what would
happen. Then, when supper was finished and as I stood at the sink preparing to wash the dishes, Mr.
Netten walked over to me seemingly with purpose. Listening attentively, because it seemed like he
wanted to say something important, he said, "You left the disposal on this afternoon." With surprise, I
said, "I did?" So, I stood there for a while thinking back to the moment I know I turned it off and yes, I
did in fact turn it off. I remember vividly turning it off as a spoon had fallen down in it. I remember
carefully checking and making sure it was off before I left. So, when he returned with the dishes, I made
certain to tell him he was mistaken. Continuing to speak on the matter, I reassured him by saying, I
would definitely not have left it on, especially because I just spoke with him hours before about Ms.
Schoenrock's wrongfully accusing me of leaving it on that past Saturday. As such, the chances of my
making that mistake would be near zero. Suspicious of his accusation, I asked him for the time when he
noticed it on and he told me about 1:30pm, but I had left the building at about 12:25pm. I explained to
him that maybe someone was in the kitchen messing around, because it all seemed so orchestrated.
Furthermore, how could he be so certain it was definitely me? He did not say, 'You may have left the
disposal on." He said, "You left the disposal on," with conviction. I left him a note that listed all the
things I had done before I left at the end of the work day stating, "Lights off. Disposal off. Tray emptied.
Water drained. Fan off." I told him I would be checking these things thoroughly every time I left and
making a note of it as I was used to smear campaigns. Why would I all of a sudden start leaving it on
when I had not before. After everyone left, one of the male night sitters came into the kitchen and just
stood there glaring, so I asked him if he wanted anything. He said no, talked a little bit and then left. On
my way from leaving the note in Mr. Netten's office, he came out of the lounge area and asked if I was
working the next day. I told him no and he responded, "We're allowing you to have two days off." I
responded by saying, "Well, that's very nice of you. Have a good weekend." It was clear to me that Mr.
Netten was intentionally covering up for Ms. Schoenrock or someone had deliberately gone into the
kitchen and turned the disposal on. It was done to cancel out my accusations about Ms. Schoenrock and
to stop me from informing Mr. Netten of anything that went on in the kitchen. A common tactic of
gangstalking is to repeat the offenses made by gangstalkers, if the target should inform anyone about
them as to silence the target. If the offense is repeated, it shows the target there is nothing he or she
can do to stop it and in some cases, the offense when repeated is tripled to add insult to what seems
like an injury. The job is gangstalkers is to persecute the target into submission.
April 25`" 2016 - On my way to work, a police SUV appeared at about 6:10 am at the corner of Colorado
Ave SW and 4`h Street.
April 25th 2016 - On this day, Mrs. Busby would be the main cook and the one responsible for making
breakfast. I was not at work for 2 minutes before Mrs. Busby asked if I had washed my hands which is
something I always do and afterwards, put on gloves for extra guard. After explaining this to Mrs.
Busby, I then said, "Stop trying to find things to tell me what to do." I continued to work and if there
was something I was not sure of, I asked her. The coffee had been made before I arrived and I noticed it
was not quite full, but did not think to ask about it. When Mr. Netten came into the kitchen, he noticed
it and told me to always make sure the coffee pot was full as one pot should be enough to serve all the
residents in the morning. I explained that I did notice it and wondered why it was not full, but realized
that it was maybe because Mrs. Busby had had a cup of coffee. I made certain to say it, because it was
at the same moment I realized it was probably another effort to sabotage my work which really does not
affect just me, but also the residents. It gives the impression I am incompetent and leaves some of the
paying residents without the amount of coffee they want. As Mr. Netten and I were having this
conversation, Mrs. Busby interrupted and said, "I have to talk to you about something later."
Immediately, I knew this was being directed at me, but I continued to do my job. As I was serving the
toast, I could hear her saying something to Mr. Netten and when I sat down. Mr. Netten's behavior
towards me had changed almost instantly. He became very disinterested in what I had to say and Mrs.
Busby's behavior was questionable. I continued to talk as if I knew nothing of what was happening until
it was time for me to serve the coffee and tea again. After returning to the table, Mrs. Busby got up and
left and Mr. Netten became cold. So, I stopped trying to engage him in conversation. It was obvious
that without asking me first what had happened, he had decided I was guilty. When it was time for me
to clear the table, he stood behind me as I was at the dishwasher and slowly walked up to me to ask me
to take the milk off the table. I did not quite hear him, so I asked him to repeat it and this time he said it
slightly venomously. He told me weeks before to clear the milk first to keep it from spoiling, but not to
worry about it now as was not an urgent matter yet, because it was not hot enough. It was not hot on
this day. I did as he asked, though I knew he was giving me a clear order in the presence of Mrs. Busby
due to my response to her that morning. It was obvious she told him what I said and he jumped on
board like Mrs. Albers had to make the point that I would follow an order when given it. Now, though
he was slightly hostile when asking me to clear the milk, I did it because well, he gave me the job.
Clearly, none of this made sense to me, because I was found guilty before I was asked for an explanation
as to why I responded to her the way I had and if, in fact, I had even done what she was accusing me of
doing. From what I could tell, it was a show for Mrs. Busby's benefit. Furthermore, when I spoke with
Mr. Netten about the problems I was having with Mrs. Busby on the 22nd, he did not attest to my
comment when I told him I would not allow the women in the kitchen to bully me.
As I washed the dishes, Mr. Netten kept coming in and out of the kitchen and standing in between me
and Mrs. Busby, but seeing as how he was treating me, I could only imagine it was for her benefit, so my
behavior changed. How was I supposed to do my job efficiently and effectively with that kind of
harassment surrounding me? I stopped making the effort to be friendly and became as cold as the
Antarctica in my words and silence. At this point, she realized she had convinced Mr. Netten of the
picture she wanted to paint and started to be boldly trifling. Before I finished washing everything, she
took one of the carts and placed it on the black mat that allows me to move with ease from washing the
dishes and collecting them after they have been washed. I moved it back to where it was and when I
asked her why she had done this, she complained of a pain in her hip and because of this pain, she did
not want to have to walk around the cart. She knew I was still washing dishes and took the opportunity
to be petty, in order to add insult to what she thought was an injury. I am not saying she did not have a
pain in her hip, but she had never complained of this problem before. Now, it was time to set the tables
for dinner. On this day, I recorded myself while I worked, because whenever I worked with Mrs. Busby
and sometimes Ms. Schoenrock, plastic cups, coffee cups, and utensils would go missing from the tables
I set. On several occasions on the days I worked with them, the residents would complain about not
having something on their table I was sure I put there. At the very beginning I thought I was just making
mistakes, because I was new, so I started to pay close attention of the things I put out and sure enough
on the 8th, 10th 11th, and 15th of April, stuff went missing from the tables. The incident that occurred on
April 22nd 2016 with Mrs. Busby concerning the cup of ice validated my suspicions. Recording myself
setting the table was the only way I could think of to show I had placed an item on the table, if it were to
go missing. When I finished setting the tables, I forgot to turn the recording off. Mr Netten saw the
computer sitting on top of the piano and asked if it belonged to me. I told him it did and he asked why.
I could not tell him exactly why I was recording myself seeing as how Mrs. Busby was standing nearby.
So, I explained by saying I liked to record my work experience from time to time, but he later asked me
to take it down as it would record people who did not want to be on the video like himself and Mrs.
Busby who was sitting at the staff table. So, I immediately stop the recorder and went back to filling up
the bottles of honey. We had coffee break and Mrs. Busby left. She returned when it was time to start
preparing for dinner. There are days when Mr. Netten sits at the head of the table and on other days,
his wife, Mrs. Netten, sits there. For dinner, she took his place and for the entire time she did not make
eye contact with me and was dismissive even more so, after I returned from serving coffee and tea. I
am in no way complaining about Mrs. Netten because normally she tries to be as unbiased and fair as
possible, but she was not on this day because of what was being said to her by Mrs. Busby and as much
as I like Mrs. Netten, I still think there was something wrong with her also choosing a side without first
getting my side of the events. Dinner finished and it was now time to start washing the dishes and
preparing for supper. After dinner, Mrs. Busby became even more trifling than before, because she
could see she had succeeded at winning Mr. and Mrs. Netten over. Protocol is for one of the carts to
rest at the edge of the island counter so that the clean dishes, silverware, plastic cups, and coffee cups
can be placed there for setting the table for supper. I could not find the big carts as Mrs. Busby had
moved them. I found one around the corner and cleaned it off. Mrs. Busby saw me clean it off to
prepare for the dishes that I needed to place on the cart, but seconds later, she came to take it. I told
her I needed it for the purpose just explained above. She then pointed to the other cart that was resting
just outside the window where the dirty dishes are placed. However, I did not see it there, because I
was busy washing the dishes in front of me and normally those dishes are placed on the counter as to
free up a cart. She was right in this case, but things were being done in that kitchen to disrupt how
smoothly things ran for me without slowing down things too much seemingly by multiple people.
Because washing dishes requires my back to be turned away from the kitchen, I am not always certain of
what is happening behind me or on the side of me which allows some of my co-workers the advantage
of moving things out of my sight of vision when I turn around expecting them to be there. So, I moved
the dishes, wiped it off for her, and continued working which is something she could have easily done,
because there was ample space on the counter for placing the dishes even at the moment the cart was
placed there. She was constantly trying to disrupt my duties. After everything was done and set up for
supper, Mrs. Vasquez left and Mr. Netten came into the kitchen. I grabbed the honey bottles from the
tables to make them half full as I had mistakenly filled them to the top earlier that day as told to me by
Mrs. Netten. At that moment Mrs. Busby started to go on about how everyone makes mistakes and
that it was OK, in front of Mrs. Netten. It was not genuine, but I listened for the sake of keeping things
cool. As I refilled the bottles in the back room where the freezers are located, Mr. Netten followed me
and took some of the bottles out to the table. Then a few minutes later, Mrs. Busby came into the
room, took two guests' cards, and threw them down on the cart and said in a very firm tone, "Put these
on the shelf in the box." She figured she had put me in my place and because there was more than
enough space for her to pass and do it, I said, "You can do that. Why are you asking me in such a tone?"
So, she did it and left. I put the remaining honey bottles on the table and preceded to check out. As I
was about to clock out, Mr. Netten approached me and asked if he could speak with me. I agreed, but
asked if I should clock out as it seemed to be work related. He said I should, so I did. He chose to speak
with me at one of the dining tables near the front door. As we sat down and before we started to speak,
guess who comes from down the hall? If you guessed Mrs. Busby, then you would be correct. It was
then that I knew Mr. Netten was also a part of this game. I was placed in that spot, so that when she
appeared from down the hall, she would see my sitting there with him which was meant to make me
feel scolded because of some action she took. He started the conversation with, "Did you know that
Mrs. Busby is upset?" I responded, "No, I don't." He proceeded, "Do you know why Mrs. Busby is so
upset?" I said, "No, because I said I was unaware she was upset" He continued with saying she was
upset because her feelings were hurt as she heard me talking behind her back in the kitchen on the 22""
of April. I was dumbfounded, because when I had the conversation with him, it was in reference to Ms.
Schoenrock. Mrs. Busby, Mrs. Sanchez, and Mrs. Albers were mentioned because they were guilty of
doing the same thing. Explaining further, I told him I found it quite odd her feelings would be hurt by
that seeing as how gossiping behind by back was all she did every time I got up from the staff table to
serve the residents. He was speechless, because he knew I was right. What's more, I was more
dumbfounded that he would want to have a meeting with me about it, because he had confessed to
knowing Mrs. Busby spoke badly about him behind his back as well a few days back. He continued to
speak stating the following:
1. My co-workers had gone to him to say they were only trying to help me, but they were having a
hard time understanding what I wanted.
2. When I asked him if she had told him about the washing -my -hands incident, he stumbled over
his words when saying she had not spoken to him about it but instead to his wife.
3. 1 told him I suspected Mrs. Busby and Ms. Schoenrock were removing items form the tables
after I set them without my knowledge including the incident about the cup of ice.
4. 1 told him about Mrs. Busby's rude behavior when instructing me to put the name tags away.
5. 1 told him of how Mrs. Busby pettiness worsened after she saw the distant both he and his wife
had given me that day.
6. He wanted to know if I had noticed Mrs. Busby treating Ms. Vasquez poorly and when I told him
no, he acted surprised. I responded by saying that because I was now the target, Mrs. Busby
would not dare treat Ms. Vasquez in this way as a way to not isolate herself in the kitchen. He
said that maybe it was because Ms. Vasquez just does what she is told, but that maybe she
should start speaking up for herself more, after I said, "When people can treat you poorly, they
like you. You can be their best friend."
7. 1 told him that it looked very bad to the residents to see Mrs. Sanchez, Mrs. Busby, and others
speak ill of me every time I got up to serve coffee and tea, most especially, just after having
devotion. I felt it looked extremely bad to follow scripture reading and prayer with gossip. It
felt more like routine than something the listeners actually took to HEART. Just because the
residents were in a retirement home, did not mean they lost their good sense, hearing, or sight.
I explained to Mr. Netten that because they are paying residents, they have the right to an
environment free from negative energy.
8. He questioned me about egos.
9. He suggested I quit.
After he denied having a conversation with her about the handwashing incident, I told him her behavior
had nothing to do with her feelings being hurt, but I suspected it had everything to do with my response
to her that morning. Continuing to give my opinion, I told him it would not make sense for her feelings
to be hurt seeing as how she had been doing it all day to me. In fact, I was not talking behind her back
as I was speaking about Ms. Schoenrock's behavior and Mrs. Busby's name only came up because she
was also guilty of discussing me while I was only two feet away. When he suggested I quit, my response
was, "Why would I do that? I explained I needed the job and there was no way I would come to work
starting mess with people knowing it could cost me my job. When I told him about the missing items
from the table, he wanted to know if I was recording myself working because of this and I told him yes.
Then, he asked me something I did not expect. He asked, "Why didn't you hide it better?" I told him
because I did not want to make it seem as if I was trying to hide anything. If someone discovered it, I
was prepared to say it belonged to me. I continued to speak stating the following:
1. Everyone here has family and friends. I was in a much more difficult place than anyone there
without a support system. So why was I being singled out and considered a threat to anyone?
2. If everyone was so caring and really wanted to help me, why had they never given any
encouraging words of support.
3. We are all guilty of having an ego which is difficult to realize sometimes, but that was not the
case here. I was being persecuted for something much bigger.
He continued to speak in favor of the other staff members saying that they only wanted to be my friends
and with time, things would get better. Knowing that Mr. Netten was not being forthright with me and
was pushing me to quit because he did not want to get his hands dirty, I told him about the Cointelpro
Surveillance Program or Organized Stalkers. His nervous reaction told me he understood exactly what I
was speaking of which was confirmed by the questions to follow:
1.) So, what is the purpose of this organization?
2.) How do you know you are being stalked?
3.) After telling him, I am tracked everywhere I go, he asked, "Did they follow you here? And how
do they track you?"
4.) Why did they choose you?
He was speaking as if he was gathering information as he came closer and raised the tone of his voice to
sound more intimidating. I answered his questions by saying I am not sure of the purpose or why I was
even chosen, but I do know I was made aware I was being stalked after becoming heavily invested in
labor rights' issues in Japan in 2007. As I continued to explain, I told him Organized Stalking was
designed for dissident cleansing which is achieved by constant stalking and harassment on a daily or
weekly basis until the target loses their job, housing, and financial stability causing the target to have a
mental breakdown, become institutionalized, join Cointelpro, or commit suicide. Just as I wrote down
information on the organization for Officer Van Zee, I gave Mr. Netten the same information and asked
him to do research about it on the Internet.
After speaking with him about Organized Stalking, he wanted to know if I thought my co-workers were
members and I responded, "Yes, some of them are, so I know the harassment I am experiencing from
them is because of their ties with Organized Stalking. I am their target" At that point, he did not try to
convince me otherwise, because it is difficult for him to deny the truth straight out. Though he seems to
have many years of experience manipulating the people close to him to his advantage, it is difficult for
him to tell an outright lie. He tries as much as possible to maintain some of his integrity with sincerity
which is hard to find in most members of Cointelpro. Continuing to speak, I told Mr. Netten my only
goal was to come to work and do my job to the best of ability knowing what I would have to face every
time worked and though I knew many of them would argue they were members for the sake of keeping
their LOVED ones safe, I was not going to allow anyone to bully me for selfish reasons. With their
participation, they were helping this organization destroy my life and it became apparent to me, that the
only person truly in my corner is GOD. As far as I was concerned, I was doing my job and so far up until
that point, I had not received any complaints from him. He agreed and he gave me a look of
understanding, as I walked out the door.
When I returned to set up for supper, Mrs. Sanchez was in the kitchen as usual. We greeted each other
and I started to work. As I was setting the tables for supper, she walked out into the dining area and
asked, "Who was the cook today?" I answered, "Sylvia," but could not understand why she did not
know. All the names of the people scheduled to work on any given day is written on the calendar in the
kitchen and we all receive a personal copy of that calendar. So, I asked her why she needed to know
and why she did not know for the reasons just mentioned. She explained by saying the cook did not
leave out the meat for supper to thaw and she wanted to know who made the mistake. "Really?" I
thought. She was there an hour prior to my arrival and she waited for me to tell her who the cook was
for dinner? I found it unbelievable, because I think her natural reaction would have been to check for
that information as soon as she realized the mistake had been made in the hour she had been there
before my arrival. Her asking me had nothing to do with wanting to know who the cook was earlier on
in the day but had everything to do with informing me indirectly she knew about what had transpired
between Mrs. Busby and myself that morning and early afternoon. It was not the first time she had
done this. After the bread incident with Mrs. Busby on the 16th of April, Mrs. Sanchez's behavior told me
she had been informed about it. When I arrived to set up for supper that late afternoon, Mrs. Sanchez
stood in my way as I tried to prepare the bread, aggressively took the tray of bread, and set it out
herself, though it was my responsibility. If I were not going to cooperate with Mrs. Busby, then the
responsibility would no longer be mine to perform is the point being made. A common tactic of
gangstalkers is to always stay in control. So, I asked Mrs. Sanchez if the information about who would
be working that day was written on the calendar. She said it had been, but that Mrs. Schoenrock's name
had been written there instead. Because I did not believe her, I walked over to the calendar to check
myself and only the people's name who had to work that day was there. Mrs. Schoenrock's name was
nowhere in sight. At this moment, I looked at Mrs. Sanchez and told her what I was looking at and when
she looked at the calendar, she had nothing more to say. Gangstalkers often lie on the fly thinking the
target will never be bold enough to call them out on that lie. I felt the need to do this, because I wanted
Mrs. Sanchez to know I was on to her games.
At the end of the work day, Mrs. Sanchez was being overly kind. I clocked out and was on my way out
the door. I returned to go to visit the restroom, but on my way back, Mrs. Sanchez asked me to clock
her out, because she did not have her eyeglasses. As soon as she said it, I knew it was an attempt to
gain control, because I had caught her in her game a few hours before. I told her no, because I knew
what she was doing and I knew she was more than capable of doing it herself. So, I went to the
restroom instead and left her to her games. By the time I finished, Mrs. Mary Te Grotenhuis was at the
timeclock helping her. I told them good-bye and left. For me, her getting Mrs. Grotenhuis to help her
did not validate anything. The game must look as genuine as possible.
April 28`h 2016 — The day began in silence and I was not the one giving it. As the day continued and
people started to get into their groove, my co-workers seemed more relaxed than usual. Mr. Netten
made himself scarce. As we sat for breakfast, Mrs. Netten joined Mrs. Busby and me. During this time, I
asked her for the schedule for May, because I had not received one. She thought I had it as she
normally used both sides for two months. I showed her the schedule she gave me and put it down on
the table. At that moment, Mrs. Busby grabbed it with spite in her HEART and told me that we work on
a three-week rotation that stays the same. So, I asked Mrs. Netten if the schedule stayed the same
before or after the changes were made, because I switched a few days with another dishwasher named
Mrs. Mary Zeutenhorst. Mrs. Busby, in a nasty tone, said, "That's between you and Mary." I responded,
"Please let the person who handles the schedule tell me," as I looked at Mrs. Netten. Mrs. Netten, then
responded, "The schedule stays in its original format." Mrs. Busby was acting very cocky and rude which
is the way a person acts when they feel as if they have won some battle. After breakfast, things became
suspiciously quiet. We prepared for dinner and when I took one of the resident's special water bottle
down to place on the table, someone intentionally left dirty water inside closing it shut. The lid was
always left lose to allow it to breathe and dry. It was the first time I found it closed shut and closed shut
with dirty water inside. I could tell by Mrs. Busby's body language, she had something to do with it, but I
said nothing about it and continued to work. Everything was done and it was time for our coffee break.
Feeling the calm before a storm, I chose not to sit at the staff table for the break. It was the first time I
had done so. During break, Mrs. Netten and Mrs. Linda Korver (the physical therapist) asked me if I
knew what something meant that they could not understand after reading about it. I told them I did not
know and went on to finish making my tea. As I was about to leave the kitchen, Mrs. Netten said, "We
thought someone with a Master's degree would know the answer," and then she briskly walked out. It
was the first time I saw this side of Mrs. Netten. She was being degrading, because there was absolutely
no reason to say such a thing. I did not know where it was coming from as she had always been fair.
After coffee break for the staff, it was now time to begin the last preparations for dinner. As I have
mentioned before, 10 minutes before it is time to ring the bell for the residents to come for dinner, ice
must be placed in the cups of residents and staff members. A cup is placed by everyone's place setting.
However, on this day, as I was placing ice in all the plastic cups, I noticed all the plastic cups were
missing for the place setting for the resident whose ice had been moved by Mrs. Busby on April 25th
2016. A common tactic of gangstalking is to return to the scene of a crime to repeat an offense, if the
first offense was unsuccessful. I looked up to see Mrs. Busby watching me at the door of the kitchen
and turn away quickly. On my way back towards the kitchen as I was going to the staff table to place ice
in the cups of the staff, Mrs. Busby interrupted me to place her personal cup in my face holding it out for
me to place ice in it. Mrs. Albers repeated the action. So, I place the ice bag down on the counter and
asked them to get the ice themselves, because I knew they were both up to no good. Mrs. Busby moved
the cup and to add insult to what she perceived as an injury was to make me place ice in her personal
cup. Mrs. Albers seemed to be on board. It was no different than when Mrs. Albers became involved
with the bread incident. Mrs. Busby would instigate the mess and Mrs. Albers would follow suit.
Initially, I thought Mrs. Albers was being brought into mess unknowingly and was genuinely trying to fix
a problem, but on this day, I understood she was also a willing participant helping to escalate the
problem. After this, both Mrs. Albers and Mrs. Busby looked disappointed that things did not work out
as they planned. Dinner finished and it was time to wash everything. Then, around the end of cleanup,
Mrs. Albers and Mrs. Busby started rushing to help me put away the dishes more so than they ever had
before. When it was time to clock out, Mrs. Albers waved her hands very rudely over to the time clock
and said angrily, "Clock out. We're going down to to the office a minute." Caught off guard, I asked,
"We're going down to the office for what?" She continued, "I have things to say to you and I'm going to
say them in private." I hesitated and then asked, "It's just going to be the two of us?" She responded,
"No, Verlyn and Carla will be there." So I hesitated some more, and then she said, "Verlyn is going to
meet us in the west lounge." So, I clocked out and followed them to the TV lounge where Mr. Netten
was waiting. Mrs. Linda Plathe (one of the custodians) was also there pretending to straighten things up
so she could listen to the first part of the conversation. This is what I gathered as he lingered as Mrs.
Albers began to speak. Mrs. Albers and Mrs. Busby had a seat and then pulled out a long list of notes.
When I saw that, I refused to sit down and said, "I'm not going to be able to have this meeting with you
guys today because I am not prepared for it. Surely, it seems like you are and I think that's the fair thing
to do. Mrs. Albers responded, "No, you're going to listen for just a second," to which I replied, "No, not
with that tone, I'm not. I don't have to. I'm walking out. If you're prepared to say something to me,
then you should have given me the courtesy to be prepared also." Mrs. Busby said, "We're not
prepared. We were asked to come back here." Mrs. Albers, then said, "I just have a few notes of things
I wrote down today." So, then I asked her if she could please discuss them with Verlyn and then he
could tell me what she had to say. She said she already had and then I said I would speak with him
when we were alone because, "It seems like a lynch mob right now." At this point, "Mr. Netten
interjected and said, "The requirement of the job is what as a team and what we are trying to resolve
things here and this is a team effort." So, I asked, "Is it?" to which he replied, "Absoluetly." Following
that, I asked, "So, if I'm gonna listen to you, then you're gonna listen to me?" Mr. Netten said,
"Absolutely." Mrs. Albers started to speak first. Mrs. Albers, then started with your list by saying,
"Sharmeen, these are things you have complained about, that I know of. You've complained about
people being rude. You've complained about people micromanaging you. You've talked about
Organized Stalking, that you don't trust people.." At that point, I got up and said, "Wait a second. Wait
a minute. Let's stop right there." Mrs. Albers tried to continued and I stopped her by saying, "I'm not
even gonna listen, because I didn't talk to you about that," and as she continued to talk, I walked out. I
returned seconds later and asked Mr. Netten if I could speak with him later and he told me I could once
he finished speaking with them. I looked at them and said that I would ask Mr. Netten about their
concerns when we spoke later. They left in a great mood of laughter and when I entered the TV lounge
area, Mr. Netten called in Mrs. Korver to serve as verification of what was being said. Contemplating
leaving again as I felt this was another unfair move, I asked Mr. Netten why verification of the
conversation was necessary with me and not for Mrs. Albers and Mrs. Busby. He paused for a long time,
before he responded by saying verification was unnecessary for them because they called the meeting
and he did not find fault with them.
In the meeting Mr. Netten said the following:
1. He accused me of throwing the bag of ice down and rudely telling Mrs. Busby to get the ice
herself, though he mentioned nothing about Mrs. Busby poor behavior towards me. In addition
to this, he mentioned nothing about Mrs. Albers which I found odd, because she was there too
asking for ice.
2. He then went on to say that because she had to get the ice herself, she had to waste a glove to
do it.
3. In further attempts to make me feel guilty, he said his feelings were hurt, because I refused to
clock Maria out. So, I asked Mr. Netten what would Maria have done if I had not been there or
if she could not have found anyone else to clock her out.
4. He accused me of rolling my eye and at that point, I asked him it is not in my character to roll my
eyes at people. If I were that kind of person, I would have rolled my eyes at him. He responded
by saying that I would not have done it because he's the boss.
5. When I questioned him about all the things I told him my co-workers were doing, he dismissed
everything and said they would never do those things because he knew them and that all they
wanted to do was be my friend.
6. When I questioned him about his confession and knowledge of Mrs. Busby and Mrs.
Zeutenhorst talking about him behind his back, he told me that he did not care about it.
7. When I questioned him about the missing items from the table, he told me it was not important.
I found this very odd as it would have been important to the residents, if not him. For him to
disregard them as paying residents only confirmed my suspicion of his sincerity. Many of them
would feel slighted in someone when they got to the table to find items missing that everyone
else had.
S. He concluded by saying I was not a team player to which I disagreed. He told me my opinion did
not matter because he was the boss and as such, his opinion was the only one that counted. He
also mentioned that recording my co-workers with video and audio recorders was also a sign of
not being a team player. Though I did not disagree with him on this point, I did not see it that
way. Any recordings I ever made were to serve as proof of wrongdoing by my co-workers
against me.
9. In a stern voice, he told me the head cook was the boss and after the cook was the assistant
cook leaving the dishwasher to answer to both the assistant cook and cook continuing to say,
"And when the cook says give me some ice, you give her some ice!"
The schedule for the dishwasher given to me by Mr. Netten states: "Everybody needs to work as a team -
help one another when your duties are completed. Whenever your work is done, help the cook. Work
together as a team." None of the complaints raised by Mr. Netten in the meeting could be justified as
none of them went against what was stated in the schedule or in my opinion, showed opposition to
being a team -player.
My thoughts concerning the meeting are as follows:
1. To my knowledge, Maria is not blind and worked quite well all day without her glasses to make
supper and serve it to the residents. With this fact, you mean to tell me, she could not decipher
line from line and place her time card in the appropriate space, in order to clock out? If I
thought Mrs. Sanchez really needed my help, I would have helped her. Fear never dictates my
behavior and as such, I was not going to allow her to force me to do something under the guise
of needing my help out of fear of how I would look to others. Mr. Netten said he was hurt when
he heard I had not helped Mrs. Sanchez. He was attempting to manipulate me into feeling guilty
for my reaction, but I did not, because I stood firm in my belief Mrs. Sanchez did not need my
help.
2. As for the wasted glove, Mrs. Busby did not need to waste a glove. She could have washed her
hands to remove the ice from the bag. Besides, I had never before not place ice in the cups as
they say on the tables in their designated setting. Making me place ice in personal cups as I
work, seem to go against protocol and could be view as bullying. It also slows me down as I try
to finish the task at hand.
3. Telling me he did not believe anything I said against my co-workers and penalizing me for trivial
matters or matters that he did not witness on the word on my co-workers proved that Mr.
Netten was showing favoritism and a bias. It clearly showed his not having my best interest at
H EART.
4. He mentioned nothing about Ms. Schoenrock intentionally bumping into me. He mentioned
nothing about Maria's rude behavior. He mentioned nothing about Mrs. Albers, Mrs. Sanchez,
and Mrs. Busby speaking ill of me behind my back or in front of my face. He mentioned nothing
of the things I had spoken to him about. He chalked it all up to my making mistakes and
misunderstanding my co-worker's intentions, because they all wanted to be my friend and help
me. He was giving my co-workers permission to harass me without concern for my safety by
reprimanding me and not reprimanding my co-workers.
5. Calling me into an official meeting without proper notice was a clear sign I was being set up for
an unwarranted disciplinary action therefore violating my labor rights.
6. 1 was being set up for unfair dismissal.
7. 1 was made to clock out twice, on the 25th and 28th, without pay for those hours.
8. 1 was on the bottom of the totem pole and I would do as instructed.
9. That meeting was meant to take me off guard, because when Mrs. Albers first demanded I go
with her to the office, she said nothing about Mr. Netten being present. It was meant to
unnerve me by arriving and finding Mr. Netten in the room. Because he knew the meeting was
taking place earlier in the day, I should have been given notification and he should have been
the one giving me that notification. He was serving me up to be crucified and I did not
appreciate it. The tone in my voice let him understand this. In my opinion, he was treating me
as if I had no rights or voice.
10. It was quite evident to me that my recording conversations and trying to video myself working
was quite necessary as I was on my own and without proof to back up what was happening at
Pioneer Memorial Home, then they would definitely tell the story to their advantage. If it had
not been clear before, it was very clear now. I was being set up for failure.
11. Mr. Netten's talk with me on April 25th 2016 was designed to be manipulative as it had nothing
to do with Mrs. Busby feelings being hurt, but everything to do with the handwashing incident.
This is evident from his not being forthright about Mrs. Busby speaking with him about the issue
and his saying Mrs. Busby had only spoken to Mrs. Netten about the incident. His approach was
to create guilt in my HEART and place blame on me for Mrs. Busby's insulting behavior.
After speaking more about other things, he took out the information concerning my duties for the
kitchen and asked me if I had received it. I responded, "Yes." Then he spread out all the papers which
included my work schedule for May, so that I could see it. After that, he started to fill out a document
with lines that needed to be filled in and then I asked, "What is that?" He told me it was a form that
verified the meeting had taken place and after he filled it out, I would have to sign it. I refused to sign it
as it seemed as if I was being blackmailed to sign it. Then, he looked and Mrs. Korver and asked her if
she could verify my denial to sign it. She answered yes and then he got up from the table preparing to
walk away without giving me the schedule. Before getting up, I asked what would happen, if I did not
sign the paper. He said that this was my first notice of misconduct and I asked on what basis. He said
that I was not being a team player based primarily on not placing ice in Mrs. Busby's cup, not helping
Maria clock out, and the things told to him by Mrs. Albers. If I should receive two more notices of
misconduct, it would be cause for dismissal. He started to walk away, but before he could, I asked, "So,
where's the schedule for May?" I was being discretely bullied and blackmailed into signing a form
against my will, but because I am older and know my rights, I knew I could say no to what I felt was an
improper procedure. Threatening me with notices of misconduct was designed to instill fear and this
was being used to keep me from standing up for myself and allowing my bullies to do whatever they
wanted. I imagined that everyone who had bullied me before would take full advantage of this.
Essentially, what Mr. Netten made possible was for my co-workers/gangstalkers to harass me under the
guise of working as team players leaving me unable to defend myself. He reluctantly gave me the
schedule and 1 noticed later that my work days had been shortened from 10 to 8 days. I shook both
their hands, thanked them for the time, and left. As soon as I left, I headed to the police station because
bullying under this Cointelpro Surveillance Program is criminal and I felt as if my life was being
threatened, though not in the conventional way. I returned to work and gave a copy of the information
about gangstalking to Mr. Netten as I had given to the Orange City Police Department.
May 4`h 2016 — I called Work Force Development that directed me to State Wage an Hour concerning
not being paid for the extra hours I stayed for the meetings on April 25th and April 28`h 2016 and the
Iowa Civil Rights Commission concerning the unfair treatment at work.
May 5th 2016- This was my first day back to work since the meeting and things went just as I expected
they would. Mrs. Busby took any opportunity she could to instruct me to do something even if I did not
need the instruction and I knew she was going to approach me to place ice in her cup. So, when it was
time for me to place the ice in the cups, I started with the staff table first. As I continued to place ice in
the residents' cups, I could see Mrs. Busby slowly walking towards me to make her move with her glass
in hand, but when she looked over to see ice in a cup near her place setting, she stopped and hesitantly
walked away. I could see the wheels turning in her head to figure out a way to get me to put the ice in
her glass, but she could not think of anything. As we sat at the table, she did not once put the ice in her
glass. She let it sit there and when I returned from the restroom, I made a point to tell her I left the ice
there for her. She then went on to explain she was on a liquid diet and did not need the ice, so she put
it in the pitcher of water in the middle of the table. Then, I said, "You really did not want ice." She
responded by saying, "No more ice for me." I was thinking, "You really didn't want ice. You just wanted
to mess with me then. Just what I thought." Approaching me to put ice in the cups of people while they
are holding them goes against the protocol I was trained to follow. It also slows down the process of
getting ready for supper, goes against kitchen etiquette, and therefore, should not be used in the
description of being a team player. I do not think any labor law would support this as a valid reason to
receive a notice of misconduct. It seemed so fabricated with the sole purpose of contriving reasons to
fire me. We finished dinner and nothing unusual happened. During the coffee break, Mrs. Korver
appeared. We (Mr. and Mrs. Netten, Mrs. Korver, Mrs. Linda Plathe, and myself) all sat around the staff
table and the only person who gave me genuine conversation was Mrs. Korver. Everyone else was
pretty much dismissive of anything I had to say. It was now time to serve supper and as I rang the bell
in the back, Mrs. Busby waited for me to ring the one in the front. So, I asked her to ring it as I felt with
all this talk about being a team player, she should have been helping me ring the second bell. She rang it
and then, things went downhill from there. She became even more distant than before and the kitchen
was pretty silent. She spent loads of time going back and forth from the kitchen to the lounge spending
time with the residents. When she returned to the kitchen, she saw me putting the fruit salad she had
left on the counter for me to dispose of in the garbage and asked if there was a reason I was putting it
there instead of in the garbage disposal. I responded, "Because I do not want to overwork the disposal
if I do not have to and when I asked Mr. Netten, he did not object to it." She then responded, "Verlyn
does not work in the kitchen, so he doesn't know." She then explained that the garbage would be left
overnight and it would bring about flies, so it would better for us to change garbage bags. I understood
and did not object. When everything was done, Mrs. Korver disposed of the garbage and put in a new
garbage bag at which time I thanked her for being so kind. Then, at around 6:05 pm, Mrs. Busby came
over to the dishwasher and started hastily putting away all the dishes in the same manner she had
before the meeting on the 28`h, but with anger. Where was all this help before when she had the time
to give it? I could barely get them out of the dishwasher. It was as if she was taking over my duties and
not allowing me the satisfaction of completing my tasks. When I went over to dry the utensils, she
instructed me to clean the sink so that she could do the utensils, but it had already been cleaned. She
stood behind me with her hand on her hip breathing heavily. She then asked me for the ones that went
in the drawer and I passed them to her. As I finished the last leg of the wash, she just stood there
staring at me as if she was disciplining a child and then, as she snapped her fingers, she said, "Come on,
let's go. You're milking the pot and I don't want to milk the pot." She was behaving like a maniac and I
am not exaggerating. I responded, "I'm not milking the pot" She continued by telling me the
dishwasher and cook always leave at the same time and since I had been working there I had never left
with anyone else, so that I could be sure all my responsibilities were completed. I simply said, "OK," and
did not move. At this moment, Mr. Norm Grotenhuis (the night sitter) appeared, I think, to intervene.
She stood there for a while waiting for me to move and I said, "You don't have to wait on me." Then,
she struck up a conversation with Mr. Grotenhuis still waiting for me to leave and then I said again, "You
don't have to wait for me." At that point, she left, but then came back. This time, I went outside and
asked her what she meant by milking the pot and she responded by saying she was trying to get me to
hurry up by asking me to clean the sink while she did the utensils, but that I was not being a team player
because I said, "I'm not going to do that" At that point, I told her she was putting words in my mouth
and that her statement about milking the pot was rude and stupid. I continued to tell her that I felt she
was intentionally causing problems for me to which she disagreed. As she left, she stated that it was
going to be one whirlwind of a weekend because we were schedule to work together on Saturday and
Sunday and I agreed.
About an hour later, I thought to call Mr. Netten to ask him if the rule was for the cook and dishwasher
to leave at the same time as Mrs. Busby had said and he said no. In fact, he told me she sometimes
leaves after everyone else has left, so he did not understand why it would be an issue. Afterwards, I told
him everything written in the above paragraph and how I felt she was using abusive language and giving
abusive instructions. He said he would talk to her, but seeing as how he had never believed anything
else I had told him and provided me with lip service, I did not see how this time would be any different.
I expected for him to show up at work on the weekend and support Mrs. Busby with her games.
May 6th 2016 - A letter from the Iowa Workforce Development arrived opened.
May 7 1 2015 - I arrived to work with Mrs. Busby on guard and seemingly on her best behavior. She
made attempts to give friendly conversation, but every time we passed each other, she would walk pass
me with an air of arrogance and stand still, in order to force me to move and walk around her. Her
friendly conversation was so disingenuous. Ms. Schoenrock walked in just after breakfast was over and
gave Mrs. Busby a huge "hello," as Mrs. Busby was facing her when she entered the building. I
continued to wash dishes. Then, just before coffee break at around 9:20am, Mr. Netten showed up. He
walked in as if to catch me off guard. When I said, "Hello," he only smiled and kept walking towards the
front door as I cleaned a cart. So, I continued to work and gave no attention to the game of surprise I
figured he was playing. He went into the kitchen and carried on a very friendly conversation with Ms.
Schoenrock and Mrs. Busby. Eventually, he casually walked over to me and asked me very awkwardly
how I was doing. I responded by saying I was doing well and continued to work. Honestly, it was very
clear to me that Mr. Netten did not possess a sincere bone in his body for me. When he left, Mrs. Busby
rose in spirits and every time she walked passed me this time around, there was a greater pep in her
step with a bit more arrogance. It was very evident Mr. Netten's surprise visit was for Mrs. Busby's and
Ms. Schoenrock's benefit. Around dinner time, the day sitter, Mrs. Phyllis De Kock, arrived. She was in
charge of doing devotion as Mr. and Mrs. Netten did not work on the weekend. We all sat at the table.
Both Mrs. Busby and Ms. Schoenrock were on their best behavior as Mrs. De Kock sat at the table and
from this, I could gather she was not a member of the gossip crew. I also found her to be a very
pleasant, LOVING, and genuine person. Dinner was over and as we cleaned up and prepared for supper,
Mrs. De Kock attended to other things outside of the kitchen. I could feel Mrs. Busby itching for a
scratch, so I tried to stay out of her way though she started to calculate her steps, in order to make
some sort of contact with me. She kept her eyes on me the entire time it seemed just waiting for
something to happen or for a moment to be petty. With both hands full of dessert bowls, she stopped
what she was doing to open the cupboard for me and as she did so, she said, "Watch out. Watch your
face." I responded, "I don't need to watch my face." She replied, "I didn't want to smack you." Though
it may have looked like she was helping me, it was quite the opposite. What she did was to give
backhanded assistance. She called it a warning, but my face was not close enough to the door to
warrant a warning. She was being indirectly offensive. So, I responded by saying, "Those should not be
words that should even come out of your mouth." At this moment, Ms. Schoenrock jumped in and they
both tried to make it seem as if I was taking it the wrong way as they shouted Mrs. Busby's only intent
was to be helpful. If that were the case, when I told her those are words that should never come out of
your mouth, she would not have made a point to repeat the insult by saying, "I just said be careful. I
don't want to smack you in the face." Besides, people do not change overnight or in such a short period
of time. Just two days before that, she was being unkind and in the weeks before that, she was not
being kind either. So, her intention was not to help me. Her intention was to disguise an insult with
being helpful. Mrs. Busby and Ms. Schoenrock continued to badger me as I turned around to continue
working. As I continued to work, I could feel Ms. Schoenrock and Mrs. Busby coming closer to me
voicing more insults. Ms. Schoenrock started to say things like, "Something bad must have happened to
you....." When I realized where she was going with it, I raised my voice and started to say things like,
"Zip it. I'm working. Be quiet about it. It's none of your business," to drown her out, but she continued
with, "It is my business, the way you're acting. Go back to Alabama," and became even more aggressive
and pestering. So, I walked out of the kitchen, because I felt the both of them crowding my space
saying, "On my goodness and you're following me being hostile. Get away from me. I'm not listening to
you." As I walked into the dining area, Ms. Schoenrock started throwing even more insults like, "Get
out. Just go. We don't want you here." So, I gave her a lot of distance and she continued to follow me.
She continued to be hostile, but yet was saying she was defending herself, to which I replied, "Defending
yourself? I'm walking away from you and you're following me. Right?" She agreed and, I think, when
she realized how bad that looked, she went back into the kitchen. She kept saying that my time there
was finished and I told her to call Mr. Netten, because he was the only one who could tell me to leave.
She did and as she talked to him, she was saying very loudly, "We want her gone. We're done.
Fucking....." She hung up the phone and told all of us that he was on his way. When I tried to finish
washing the dishes, Mrs. Busby was there and refused to move. She told me to go home, because I was
no longer wanted there, but I told her it was my job and I needed to finish doing my job. At this point,
Mrs. De Kock walked in and when Mrs. Busby saw Mrs. De Kock, she stopped and went to the other side
of the kitchen. Both Ms. Schoenrock and Mrs. Busby seemed to all of a sudden have a change of HEART,
but then they started to try to justify their behavior to Mrs. De Kock. Mr. Netten showed up about 10
minutes later and when he arrived he waited around for me to finish my tasks. As I was drying the
utensils, Ms. Schoenrock walked over and said, "I can do this," and positioned herself to take over what I
was doing as to speed up my exit out the door, but I stopped her and told her it was my job, so I could
do it. To play herself up and to play me down, she started trying to make it seem like she was being
helpful and I was not being a team player. I responded by telling her I did not feel as if that is what she
was doing. It was quite evident they were playing on the team player theme as I am sure they were all
informed by Mr. Netten what he had said to me in the meeting on the 28th of April. I finished the
utensils, clocked out, and told him I really did not have anything to say as they had the problem and I did
not feel as if I did anything wrong. He said he understood, but that it was not working out and I did not
have to return that afternoon. I told him it seemed unfair they could have control over the situation and
I did not accept his decision. He seemed satisfied with the outcome. I was being set up from day one to
work in a hostile environment in silence or lose the job, if I took any action against mistreatment. Mr.
Netten, no matter how well I thought of him, allowed his employees to dictate the outcome. In
gangstalking, you suffer in silence or face being forced out or an agreement (employment, academia, or
housing), if you do not. In any location, though the outer appearance presents a chain of command,
gangstalkers control each other. They are all on the same level, but some are more viscous than others.
As such, within their group, they do not always get a long or like each other. From my observation, Mrs.
Busby is the most viscous of them all and has no problem selling them out to the members of Cointelpro
above her. This explains why she and Mr. Netten are at odds with each other. He does not take as
much pleasure in playing the psychological games with targeted people as she does, but this does not
mean, he does not enjoy it.
May 13`h 2016 — I went out to get groceries from Don's Food Center at a bit before 9:OOpm. On my way
back, I saw a police SUV at the intersection of 3rd Street Avenue and Arizona Street.
More experiences with Gangstalking at Work and in the Community of Orange City
1. Crowding in Don's Food Center. I have noticed gangstalkers rushing in and cashiers slowing
down their service, in order to allow gangstalkers the time to get behind me in the line where
they start to whistle, force the cashier's attention towards them before the cashier can give me
a proper goodbye, or wanting me to see the targeted color for the day. You can judge this from
the surveillance cameras if they have them installed. My receipts show my being there on
March 215t at 17:30:39, April 9th at 18:00:26, April 29th at 19:21:07, May 6th at 21:54:44, and May
13th 2016 at 21:24:59.
2. Crowding and poor service at The Old Factory. On April 28th 2016, 1 wore a patchwork Asian
long jacket. When asked at work where I bought it, I told them I bought it online at it came from
either Taiwan or China. I wore it the next day and when I arrived at The Old Factory, the barista
was unusually slow with making the drink of the customers in front of me. Finally, she took my
order and when I turned around there were a group of Asian people standing behind ime. It
would not have been so suspect if they had not deliberately tried to stand in my way to keep me
from passing. So, I do what I normally do in those cases. Before I left, I introduced myself to
two of them and gave them information about gangstalking. Gangstalkers used very specific
things concerning targets to mimic targets like clothing, color, the name of hometowns, favorite
foods, etc. In this case. Mimicry was used as a gangstalking tactic.
3. 1 have been the target of gaslighting, ghosting, financial ruin, cyber -stalking, directed
conversation aka storytelling), color harassment, mimicry, illegal surveillance, sensitization,
sexual arousal and harassment, street theater, and entering the house 1 live in without
permission for the purpose of causing psychological harm
4. Delayed and opened mail
5. Mr. Art Van Riesen and Mr. Jim from Visser's Plumbing both members of CointeIpro targeted me
for sexual harassment. The older gentleman's behavior in the library was also very
inappropriate and of a sexual nature.
6. At Pioneer Memorial Home, the word "police" was thrown around a lot in my presence and just
after someone would say it, everyone and I mean everyone would break out in pretentious and
forced laughter. Gangstalkers do this, in order to make the target feel uneasy, because they
know the target is being patrolled by the police.
7. The missing plastic cups, coffee mugs, and utensils went missing from the place settings for
residents Cornie, Sadie, Elma, Angie, Donna, Casey, and Coba. Based on my experience with
gangstalking, I would not be surprised if these residents are targeted individuals. Taking the
items from these place settings not only is meant to make me look incompetent, but it also
serves to harass the resident at that place setting. On one occasion, Mrs. Busby spoke ill of a
resident named Arlene when she discussed a very personal matter concerning her and another
resident. Concerning that personal matter, Mrs. Busby said with a burst of laughter, "It will
never happen." I am sure the residents who are marked as target experience the same kind of
harassment like being ostracized from social gatherings, whispered about in front of their faces,
and things probably go missing from their rooms and not just at the dining tables.
I have not lived in Orange City that long, but I do know Organized Stalking is taking place her. Listed
below are other places where I have witnessed Organized Gangstalking worldwide:
1. The Kanto, Kansai (aka Kinki), Chubu, Kyushu regions of Japan. Japan is made up of 8 regions.
Tokyo is in the Kanto region and Yamanashi is in the Kyushu region. Both Tokyo and Yamanashi
are prefectures (another name for states), not cities. Only for your information, many people
who live outside of Japan think Tokyo is a city. It is not, but instead a prefecture with a
population of over 13,000,000 people. Some of the cities of Japan are Shinjuku, Shibuya,
Harajuku, etc.
2. Rome, Pisa, Florence, Milan Italy
3. Paris, France
4. Montreal, Canada
5. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, UAE
6. Tibet
7. India
8. Bejing, China
9. Seoul, South Korea
10. Dublin, Ireland
11. Thailand, Viet Nam, and Cambodia (most of my stalkers in these places were other
foreigners/backpackers like myself)
12. The United Kingdom
13. Prattville, Alabama; Hollywood, Florida; Orange City, Iowa USA
Many of my gangstalkers have been from countries I have never visited and they are listed below:
1. Russia
2. Nigeria
3.
Ghana
4.
Tanzania
5.
The Philippines
6.
Bulgaria
7.
Venezuela
8.
Brazil
Not knowing when this totalitarian movement began, I cannot guess how long it has taken to transition
from seemingly democratic states to ones where citizens will have no voice. I imagine as it has
infiltrated every cultural group and vocation, it was fairly easy to get some to get on board, while others
had to probably be blackmailed into cooperating. From my standpoint, the targeted individuals are the
ones that refuse to participate. We are the ones that most strongly believe in democracy and free will.
We are the whistleblowers, freethinkers, human, animal, and labor rights' activists. Now that I know
the signs of gangstalking, I can back as far as the mid-1990s while a student at Cornell University. During
that time, it was not very noticeable, but I can remember the strange behavior of a few people in my life
that bear a great resemblance to what I have experienced with gangstalkers now. As I have mentioned
in other letters, I believe I was being used to force a certain number of my family members into
cooperation. Those miscalls at my home were probably members of Cointelpro as I often get phone
calls from unknown numbers as well as risque text messages.
It should be noted that if gangstalking exists in any community before the arrival of a newcomer, then it
exists for natives in that community who are targeted individuals. With that said, I did not bring
gangstalking with me. It was already here in Orange City and there in Sioux Center, Iowa and very much
active, before my arrival. What people may not understand is that in a transitioning period like this,
there is going to be resistance and a large fallout of victims who are not mentally built to cope with such
atrocities against humankind. I can only imagine the horror that takes place in a household where one
member of that household refuses to be indoctrinated. I am sure one spouse is instructed to alienate
another spouse by not being as cooperative, compassionate, LOVING, complimentary, affectionate, and
supportive. Children can be easily influenced, if they are closer to the parent that gives in to this system.
Have you ever heard or read about the stories of fathers who go ballistic and wipe out the entire family
or mothers who just have a mental breakdown and take the lives of her children? When I used to hear
these stories, I used to think these people committed these horrific crimes out of revenge, stress of
raising a family, or some jealous rage, but now I believe these people could have very well been acting
out of being targeted individuals. They were either taking out their bullies or led themselves to
believing they were protecting them from a tortuous existence. Furthermore, this system is not just
active in the targeted individual's home. The family members on board will contact others outside of
the home to notify them that this person is not cooperating and as such, this targeted individual will
receive the same treatment at work and even from, let us say, members of their Bible study or volunteer
organization. Cointelpro makes sure this person has nowhere to turn, at least immediately. Having your
entire family and community turn against you could drive anyone to insanity, especially if your pastor
(the one who seems closest to GOD) is also a member which leads to my next question.
In Orange City, Iowa, what has the suicide rate been? Can you see an incline in the rate beginning in the
past 60 to 70 years as Ernest Hemingway's targeting began in the 1940s? Were the victims people no
one would have ever expected to take their own lives? Has there been a rise in the number of cases for
mental illness? Doing a Google search, I found an article on two pastors who committed suicide in 2014.
It was written up as loneliness being a major factor in their decision as pastors usually carry this feeling
of isolation with them as keepers of GOD's WORD. While this could be true, it could also be true that
the community turned on these pastors and tried to force them to go against GOD's WORD by requiring
them to use psychological warfare on targeted individuals in the community. I know, because this was
my experience with the pastor, his wife, and the congregation at New Life International Church in Kofu,
Yamanashi in Japan. Pastor Danny Brown, Mrs. Suzy Brown, and church members posing as friends
would periodically use directed conversation (storytelling), gaslighting, sensitization, mimicry, and
ghosting as tactics against me in church and at social gatherings outside of church. Testimonies given
by members of the congregation were a reflection of the routines made, actions I took, and
conversations I had in my apartment right down to the last thing I did before going to bed or the last
thing I said in conversation. When I confronted Pastor Brown, he said, "I do not know what you are
talking about, but you're not delusional." It was his way of denying it, but also telling me what I believed
to be true was in fact, true. Pastors who really believe in the WORD know this is wrong, but many of
them cannot remove themselves from the situation because of selfish reason, but also because they
genuinely fear for the lives of their family. For example, when Mr. Netten gave devotion one afternoon,
he suggested that we be more accepting of the differences of others and do our best to not gang up on
those different to ourselves, because they do not look like us. His voice trembled as he spoke, but after
that devotion, my co-workers seemed to have a change of HEART that only lasted for a short time. I
sought Mr. Netten out as he was leaving for the day and told him I appreciated very much the message
he gave and that great leaders have the ability to move people instantly. I told him I considered him to
be a great leader that day, though I believe he is not able to express this gift due to Cointelpro's
suppression of it.
When you are a target, you are meant to endure the abusive behavior of gangstalkers and told to be
grateful for whatever they believe they are allowing you to have through their mercy which feels very
much like having a GOD complex. Only after you have pledged your allegiance to Cointelpro are you
allowed to be treated like a human being, carry on with your life as promised by our constitution, and do
others get to see your value. Even still, members are indentured servants for life. Cointelpro has
designed each tactic used against targeted individuals to make them feel devalued, hopeless, and
UNLOVED which explains why the targeted person is driven to indoctrination, insanity, suicide, or
homicide. If they are successful, they are able to break the individual down and then rebuild that
individual in their image; an individual that cannot function without them, one that owes their life and
loyalty to a system that keeps them clothed and fed. Cointelpro leads its participants to believe its sole
purpose is to instill humility, gratitude, and peace into its target, but this could be the farthest from the
truth. An organization that uses psychological warfare on its targets is not one that can teach anyone to
be humble, grateful or peaceful as it is the opposite of all these good things. People are only allowed to
live their lives as long as they cooperate with the system which reads more like coercion than peace.
Anything done for the good of man and in the name of GOD is never done in the dark which is how
Cointelpro operates.
Today, this operation is very covert, but is slowly becoming bolder with each passing day. Eventually,
what was once covert is going to be very overt. The invisible concentration camp is going to be very
visible as, I imagine, targeted individual s are going to be hauled off by the truck loads for extermination
or to places to do GOD knows what. When this happens, it will have been accepted, globally, that these
targets are less than human and have no place among them in society. People will turn their backs and
turn their heads like all is right with the world. It will not be as easy as going into places like Germany to
put an end to genocide, because the entire world will be involved. Then what?
Before I finish, I highly recommend going to the Internet and doing research on the topics of the
Cointelpro Surveillance Program, gangstalking, and targeted individuals. When you visit certain sites
concerning these topics, you will see a lot of information that I have not written about here. There will
be talk of remote neural monitoring and directed energy weapons (DEWs) used to hijack the thoughts
and physically torture targeted individuals in their homes while they sleep. I have never experienced
any of this, but there have been some questionable things I have experienced in Orange City Iowa that I
have not experienced anywhere else. As I am not certain that things are occurring, I will never mention
them until I am absolutely sure. Until that time, I am going to chalk those things up to nothing as
everything that happens in my life is not always a result of Cointelpro. Be careful of sites that give
disinformation. Those sites will be inundated with talk of aliens, UFOs, and the like. They have been
created by members of Cointelpro to discredit credible sources.
In conclusion, when I was given the job at Pioneer Memorial Home, it was not given in earnest. It was
given as a way to be degrading, but that backhanded effort did not work as I LOVED the job and did it
very well. My only crime was not succumbing to bullying and as a result, my position as a dishwasher
was terminated. My talks with Mr. Netten, the manager, about the bullying were never truly handled
properly or with a sense of importance. The meeting that took place on April 28th 2016 in the name of
conflict resolution was a farce as it was meant to blindside me and give my co-workers a platform to
take out their frustrations on me which I avoided by not allowing them to do so. My concerns were
overlooked as theirs were given priority as seen in Mr. Netten's reprimand of me excluding them from
the same fate. From where I sat, bogus claims were created, in order to justify terminating my
employment. Because I was fired on the day without at least 30 -day notice, I am without enough
money to support myself in the coming months. Seeing as how I am alone in this city and may have
been blacklisted from finding another job in this town, I am going to fight to get my job back. Moreover,
I believe these acts were committed under instruction of the Cointelpro Surveillance Program and even
if you did not believe so and removed all allegations of gangstalking, my treatment at Pioneer Memorial
Home would still read unjust.
With this document, I have attached two other documents, one explaining in more detail about
Cointelpro and the other containing links and information about targeted people who are lost their lives
or livelihood to gangstalking. As aforementioned, I am not suicidal, homicidal, or mentally as I have
respect for all life and LOVE all people. It is important to state this as Cointelpro LOVE to label their
targets as such to ruin their credibility. My only goal is to raise your awareness, so that you know the
kind of world we are living in if you do not know already. I am also sending you this as to jolt you
pleading for you to wake up and take action against this corrupt system.
The Bible clearly states, you cannot serve Lucifer and GOD at the same time. "For no one can serve two
masters for either you will hate the one and LOVE the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise
the other." There is no gray area here, only black or white. I am not preaching. I am only making a
point that you cannot be devoted to Cointelpro and GOD at the same time and even if it were not in the
Bible, the good sense that GOD gave us would allow us to come to the same conclusion.
If you have any questions, please contact me by e-mail or 860 9314458
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
Cc: President of the United States
Vice President of the United States
United States of America, Department of State
Jim Throgmorton, Mayor of Iowa
Duane Feekes, City Administrator
Deb De Haan, Mayor of Orange City
City Council of Iowa
Rod De Boer, City Councilman of Orange City
Chad Oolman, City Councilman of Orange City
Steve Roesner, City Councilman of Orange City
Tony Vande Brake, City Councilman of Orange City
Earl Woudstra, City Councilman of Orange City
Tom Phillips, Mayor of Norwalk
Stephanie Riva, City Councilwoman of Norwalk
Erika Isley, City Councilwoman of Norwalk
Sharmeen Denise Jones
sharmeeniones74(kemx.com
Skype name: sharmeen.jonesl
Qualification Highlights
Master of Science, Major in Reproductive Physiology
4 years' experience teaching biology (general biology and reproductive physiology)
8 years' experience in medical research and 9 years lab work/assistant
(Cloning and embryonic stem cell research)
11 years' experience in language instruction (ESL)
Taught and touched the lives of over 3000 students
Strong analytic abilities and sense of leadership
hitegrity, initiative, enthusiasm, advocacy, hard-working, punctual, professional, friendly
Education
Master of Science January 2015
Major in Biomedical Sciences
Bary University, Hollywood, Florida
Master of Science May 2002
Major in Reproductive Physiology
University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
Bachelor of Science December 1996
Major in Reproductive Physiology
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Professional Experi
English Instructor
YES English School
Grade 4 Teacher
The American School in Kofu
English Instructor
Bambi Bilingual Kindergarten (BBK)
Instruction
English Business Instructor
Overseas Broadcasting Center (OBC), Tokyo, Japan
English Language Instructor
The NOVA Group, Tokyo, Japan
November 2011 -December 2013
February 2011 -October 2011
August 2010 -February 2011
October 2007 -December 2009
August 2003 -August 2007
Professional I Organized I Leader I Relational
• Taught English reading, writing, comprehension, conversation, science, math
• Developed teaching materials and curricula for individuals/groups
• Helped students write TOEIC test (Test of English for International Communication)
• Gave conversational business English to executives at top Japanese companies
Achievement(s):
Improved English levels of approx. 3000 students (1780 aged 13+, 1220 aged 3 to 12)
Selected to be a head -teacher
• Asked by fellow teachers to take on students they deemed challenging
Professional Experience: Volunteer Service
Volunteer at Children's Ward January 2004 -January 2009
Tokyo University Medical Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
• Provided emotional support to children with cancer and heart disease
Developed encouraging games and activities
Taught English informally
Achievement(s):
• Found strength from children facing adversity
Professional Experience: Medical Research and Laboratory Work
Re searcher/Laboratory Assistant August 1998 -May 2002
University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
Researcher/Laboratory Assistant
Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
Researcher/Laboratory Assistant
University of Illinois, Urbana -Champaign, Illinois
Laboratory Assistant
Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama
August 1994 -December 1996
Summer 1994
August 1993 -May 1994
• Assisted world's lead researcher, Dr Xiangzhong "Jerry" Yang, on animal cloning
• Conducted medical research and laboratory work in reproductive physiology (artificial
insemination, embryo transfer, in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization, embryonic stem
cell research and embryo development) and immunogenetics
• Completed 5 independent studies towards Master's Thesis
• Served as teacher's assistant to graduate professors
Achievement(s):
• Contributed to the medical research that led to the birth of 4 clones
• Published Graduate Thesis: The Effects of Cyclin Dependent Kinase Inhibitors on
Parthenogenone Development (Completed in December 2001)
Professional I Organized I Leader I Relational
General Volunteer January 2004 -April 2014
Never -Ending International Work Camp Exchange (NICE), Tokyo, Japan
• Participated in forest conservation and planting/farming activities
• Assisted with food and clothing drives, protected homeless overnight
• Mentored abused children
Achievement(s):
• Raised awareness throughout Japan of child abuse and homelessness
Indonesian International Work Camp (IIWC) — AIDS/HIV Winter 2004(one month)
Semarang, Indonesia
• Raised awareness of AIDS/HIV in Muslim prostitution communities
• Shared and distributed information, prophylactics, etc.
• Spoke at community meetings and answered questions
• Spent time with orphans and street children to show understanding and encouragement
Achievement(s):
• Impacted communities by sharing recent, in-depth research
• Influenced some behaviors in regards to safe sex practices
• Made time to exchange life experiences with orphan and street children
Volunteer — Haiti Mission Support with Norwich Mission Summer 2002(one month)
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
• Raised funds to help 7 housing programs for children with disabilities & orphans
• Supported children and adults in need emotionally, physically and spiritually
Achievement(s):
• Inspired and encouraged fellow group members and those we visited to never give up
hope for a better future
Professional I Organized I Leader I Relational
September 30th 2016
Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds
1007 East Grand Ave.
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Dear Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds,
My name is Sharmeen D. Jones (422-15-7341) and I would like to share with you some events that have
occurred in my life, since moving to Orange City, Iowa. I have only ever taken such measures to talk
about Organized Gangstalking, when faced with extreme adversity.
Not wanting to make this a lengthy e-mail, I will try to focus on the events that took place in the month
of August and September of 2016.
I would describe myself as a very LOVING and caring person who would never intentionally do anything
to hurt another person. I value not only my life, but also the lives of all living things. However, I believe
there is a Covert Harassment Program that seeks to destroy the lives of people like myself through one
of many methods called Organized Gangstalking (OGS) which was made aware to me in the year 2007,
while teaching conversational English in Japan. At the time, I did not know the name for it, but upon
returning to the United States, I learned of its existence in 2015. After reading up on OGS, I learned that
people like myself were called targeted individuals (Tls) and I was not alone as I read about the
experiences of other Tis whose experiences mirrored very much my own. Based on my experiences and
what I have come to know about OGS, I believe I was a target long before I realized it and the only way
to effectively fight this organization is to raise awareness about it. Many Tis find it unbearable and often
times become suicidal, homicidal, mentally ill, or members of the program. However, I am not one of
those people and I always make sure to tell the people with whom I discuss OGS I would never take my
life or the life of anyone else as my faith is deeply rooted in GOD and I have always looked to him for
guidance and strength. Though I believe raising awareness is the only way to beat this thing, I do not
always talk to everyone I meet about it as not to dwell on it.
However, my stance against OGS has prevented me from securing jobs or jobs that are well-paid,
because I believe I have been blacklisted. To bring you up to speed, I have attached a Word document
that details my experiences with OGS in Orange City from the time I arrived on March 1� 2016. My first
job was at the Pioneer Memorial from March 22nd 2016 to May 7th 2016, but was fired from that job on
the spot because of workplace bullying. I was able to secure another part time job at the Old Factory,
owned by Mr. Steve Mahr, here in Orange City, Iowa. I worked for Mr. Mahr from July 5th 2016 to
August 29th 2016. The week prior to the week of the 22"d of August, I started pre -training at Hope
Haven for a full time position, though I did not sign my contract with them until September 1� 2016. 1
do not believe I got that job until after I sent out an e-mail to some people about my feelings concerning
being blacklisted. So, I worked at the Old Factory and Hope Haven during that week. I had not informed
Mr. Mahr of my getting hired at Hope Haven, because I wanted to see how things worked out there with
the workload, clients, and other employees first. Trying to juggle both jobs, I requested for Mr. Mahr to
take a day off my schedule because I was scheduled to work every day on the week of the 22nd of
August. During the week of the 29th, I asked him to clear my schedule after I worked on the 29th, but I
did not say why. I wanted to speak with him in person about the new job and to see if he would let me
continue to work at the Old Factory one or two days a week. So, on September 9th 2016, 1 went to his
house to talk to him, but his wife answered the door. She told me he was out of town and then gave me
a thank you letter from Bibles for Missions for helping them emcee at Arts on Central on August 17th
2016. She wanted to know why I needed to talk to him, but I just told her I would send him an e-mail
later that evening. Her house was on the way to the house where I worked for Hope Haven, so I
continued on to work. I arrived at 4pm and after about 30 minutes, we took off to Fareway to help the
clients with shopping for groceries.
While there, I received a phone call from an unknown number and when I called it back, it was a call
from the sheriff who told me he had papers to serve me. I thought it was concerning the eviction notice
that Mrs. Diane Broek had served to me on July 26th 2016. So, I told'him he could come to the house
after 10pm when I returned from work. He wanted to know where I worked, but I would not tell him as
I did not want him to come to my job. He insisted, but I told him if he wanted, I could come to the
precinct and pick the papers up there at which time he told me he needed to get them to me right away.
So, I told him I would get them from him after 10pm and we got off the phone. We returned to the
house where the clients stayed and started to prepare for dinner. As we had dinner and chatted away,
there was a knock at the door. My co-worker looked out the door and to her surprised said, "There's a
sheriff at the door." Immediately, I told her to tell him I was not there and that she did not know me.
She tried, but they insisted on seeing me and when she came back in, she said they had a court order to
take me into custody. I refused to go out, because at that moment, I knew I was being setup for
something horrific. How did they find me in such a short period of time, because I never shared with
anyone I had a new job? Mrs Emily Mahr, Mr. Mahr's wife, works for Hope Haven and when Mrs. Van
Roekel asked me if I had told Emily, I told her I had not. I asked her if she had and she told me she did
not tell Emily either. So, how did they know?
After failing to convince me to go outside, my co-worker called Mrs. Amy Van Roekel, the residential
director who hired me. She arrived within 15 minutes, but talked to the deputies before coming inside
to talk to me. I asked her what it was about and she said she did not know, only that I had to go with
them and if I did not go outside, she would have to give them permission to come into the house. She
did not want the clients to see the deputies there and neither did I. Before going out, I asked her if it
would affect my job and she said it would, if I did not go out. I knew it would be traumatizing for the
clients to see the deputies in the house and after discussing my options, which were not many, I decided
to just go to the door to see what it was about. However, that was not good enough for Mrs. Van
Roekel as she insisted I exit the house. I did and when I asked them what it was about, Deputy Mora
told me a court order had been issued by the judge to have me committed to emergency for evaluation.
I could not believe it and did not go willingly, so I tried to go back into the house, but it was locked. At
that moment, I knew Mrs. Amy Van Roekel role which was to usher me out of the house and then have
the door locked, so I could not get back in. This was all conveniently planned to happen on a Friday, so I
would not be able to talk to the judge, seek legal advice, or tell my side of things as I am doing now. No
matter what, I would have to stay there for two days. Please see the video to see what happened.
I was committed to Mercy Hospital in Sioux City, Iowa. While there was an on-call physician assistant
(PA), Ms. Laurie Warren, who almost immediately started asking me questions with a belligerent tone.
She would not let me finish my sentences and when I refused to give her my blood, she told me if I did
not cooperate, they would keep me there until my scheduled court date on September 14`" 2016 at
which time the judge would have me permanently committed after reading her evaluation. Upon my
return, they would then inject me with some sort of tranquilizer to get what they needed. I still did not
give it to her. She kept calling me paranoid and told me that if any of the allegations were true in the
affidavits, I could be committed for a very long time. She was my PA for Saturday and Sunday and I felt
her role was to intentionally treat me with harshness, in order to send a clear message that if I did not
stop talking about Organized Gangstalking, this would be my life. Other than that, the environment and
living conditions were up to standards. There were five or six other people inside with me; some came
in voluntarily and others were either committed by the court or a family member. There was a young
man there by the name of Shawn who said he was a client of Hope Haven. He was constantly being
antagonized by one of the CPNs named Melissa who was of Mexican descent and tried to conceal her
name. Her nametag was facing the wrong way, but I thought it was by mistake until I introduced myself
to her. When I asked for her name she gave me a false one. Somehow, the nametag faced the right way
exposing her real name and when I looked at it and said, "But I see Melissa on your nametag," she
looked down and turned it facing wrong side outwards again. She kept accusing him of doing things he
had not done. She seemed angry and told me that working at Mercy Medical Center could drive a
person crazy. She used a lot of profanity not only in front of the patients, but also in front of certain co-
workers. When Monday finally arrived, I met my assigned PA, Mr. Brian Paugh, who acted very
professionally. We talked and he could find nothing wrong. I was told I would see Dr. Josette Lindahl
later that day. She arrived and gave the same diagnosis as Mr. Paugh and based on what the affidavits
stated, she told me that if I had feelings of the government doing underhanded things, it does not make
a person crazy. I know this and so does everyone else, but it was not my conversations about Organized
Gangstalking with Mr. Mahr that got me committed. It was the fabrications in the affidavits that would
make any person believe I was an imminent danger to myself and others. I do not deny speaking with
Mr. Mahr about Organized Stalking but the following are lies he told, in order to convince the judge I
needed to be committed.
Fabrications:
Firstly, Mr. Mahr states, "I don't believe she has a weapon, but has expressed openly that she will do
what she has to, to protect herself." This is a bold face lie. Anyone who knows me knows that is not
how I deal with things. Because I know in the name of Organized Gangstalking, every effort is made to
make the targeted person look mental, suicidal, or homicidal, I have always made a point to make it very
clear I would never commit suicide or homicide. I have stated this to Mr. Mahr as well, not only verbally
in July, but also in writing. I sent him and others attached Word documents by e-mail on August 215t
2016. 1 know he read the document because he states that I rest consistently on circumstances that are
normal like a plumber leaving a jacket to validate my claims. In order to give you insight into what he
alleges, on March 17th 2016, a plumber named Jim from Visser Plumbing and Brother came into the
house to install a new toilet and while he was in the house, he touched my butt. Later, after leaving, he
texted me to say he may have left his jacket behind. Yes, leaving a jacket behind is a normal
circumstance, but touching someone in a sexual manner without consent in a private setting and then
texting that person to imply they may have to return because of that jacket that may or may not have
been left behind implies inappropriate and unwanted sexual advancements. Mr. Mahr's statement
about this incident with the jacket tells me he read the 39 -page document addressed to Officer Jim
Pottebaum which clearly states the following on page 7 of this document, "I am going to say it as I have
stated it before in my other letters, there is no way on this GOD's given planet that I would ever resort
to suicide or homicide. You do not allow a system not of GOD to end your life in this way, because if
you believe in GOD in the way you should, you know HE is the only one in control. "
I do not know what weapon he speaks of, but if it's a gun, I made sure to tell Mr. Brian Paugh that I do
not own one — never have and never will. When asked if I owned one, I explained to Mr. Paugh my ideas
about guns changed after living in Japan, a gunless society, for over a decade. More than 80% of the
people who own guns are killed by their own gun, because many people who own them like the idea of
having them, but are not really prepared to take a life when face with that possibility allowing
perpetrators to gain the advantage. Overall, I think they bring more harm than good. I explained all of
this to Mr. Paugh.
Secondly, Mr. Mahr checks the following, "The person is seriously mentally impaired: They are suffering
from some sort of mental illness and because of that illness they are unable to make good decisions
about their own treatment and is likely to injure themselves or others if not treated. Examples: The
person has threatened suicide, or has been prescribed medication for mental illness but is not taking the
medication and is dangerous to himself or to others." I have never threatened the life of anyone and
have never been prescribed medicine for a mental illness. How is it possible for the owner of a coffee
shop where hundreds of people may visit within a week's time permit a seriously mentally impaired
person to work for him?
Thirdly, Mr. Mahr states, "She claims as a TI it is wise to be armed or ready to defend yourself against
anyone who is threatening you." This is the kind of lie that could have gotten me shot by a police officer
and there is simply no truth to any of it.
Next, Mr. Mahr states, "Atlas and I tried to find a way to help her get to a therapist, but that was
unsuccessful." The only time I spoke with anyone from Atlas (a company that provides certain services
for people with financial difficulties) was about looking for a place to rent and the meeting scheduled to
discuss the matter in more depth did not happen. Because I missed the meeting time which oddly
enough was scheduled at closing time (3pm) at Atlas with a woman named Arla, she left information
about housing at the Old Factory on public display. It was personal information and as such, I put it in
the trash without looking at it. I decided to look for a place on my own. I contacted Orange City Plaza
and was approved for an apartment by mail on September 2nd 2016 (Please see attached document).
Atlas nor Mr. Mahr ever talked to me about their concerns for my mental health. They never expressed
concerns in writing or verbally.
Lastly, Mr. Mahr states, "Sharmeen is now in the process of being evicted, is cancelling work, and will
not see a doctor concerning an infection in her mouth." Dental work is extremely expensive and being
that I could not afford it at the time was the only reason why I could not see a dentist. However, I did go
to the doctor, in order to get antibiotics to treat the infection until I could get to a dentist. After getting
dental insurance, I still could not get to a dentist that would accept new patients or Medicaid in Sioux
Center, Iowa as I am without a car. When I went to Mr. Mahr's house on the week of the 28th of August,
he could not take me because he was on daddy duty which is why this reads so preposterous. He knew I
was making the efforts and yet, he writes this as a concern in his affidavit? He even sent me an e-mail
with information about Rides, a transportation company that provides rides to people to the
surrounding towns. What is even more preposterous is that I had a root canal on September 8th 2016
with Dr. Hiserote in Sioux Center, Iowa, the day before I was taken into custody by Orange City deputies.
Mr. Steve Mahr is a well-respected member in the community and he used his status in the community
along with false statements to have me committed. If he had talked to me about any of his concerns, he
would have known better, but I believe he did no better. Their actions cost me my job and apartment,
because now, I do not have, the money to afford the apartment which is the desired outcome for
targeted people. If Mr. Mahr was truly my friend as he states, he would have consulted me first about
his concerns, called me while I was in Mercy Medical Center, and tried to reach out to me when I was
discharged. He is not a friend and he never was, frankly. He was used to have me committed, because
they could not do it otherwise without fabrication being extremely obvious. It was never meant to have
me permanently committed, but it was however meant to make me lose my job and the chance of
moving out of this house leaving me quite destitute. It was a scare tactic to inform me this new age
Stasi has the power to do anything it wants by using the people you LOVE and respect the most. The
message is that it owns everything and everyone. Targeted people are kept at a level where we are
always dependent on others for the smallest of things and if we do not cooperate, those people we rely
on evict us, fire us, have us mentally institutionalized, or worse - using the law to validate their untruths.
I have provided some proof below to support some of the things mentioned above. Please read the
following:
The e-mails below concern my asking Mr. Mahr if he could take me to the dentist that day. Later,
while working at the caf€, Mrs. Mahr offered to let me use her vehicle, if I needed to go to the dentist.
Sent using Zoho Mail
-- On Thu, 18 Aug 201619:15:26-05005harmeen Jones <sharmeenjones@zoho.com> wrote --
Hey Steve,
Thank you for the number. I found it with a Google search, called, and left a message because it was after
hours. No problem. I see your sincerity. Saw Emily earlier and told her I had dropped by. She was very
understanding and offered up you guy's vehicle which I don't have a problem borrowing, if that is not a problem for
you. I'll try to make this my only time borrowing your vehicle as I do not want to come off as a needy
person. That's just my life these days, as much as I think of myself as a fairly Independent person.
Got in touch with Aria as well. Will talk to her tomorrow.
Thanks for the time off tomorrow too.
See you later in the week or next week,
Sharmeen D. ]ones
Sent using Zoho Mail
---- On Thu, 18 Aug 2016 15:06:44 -0700 <steven.michael.mahrdbamail.com>wrote ----
I think this may bathe numberforthe rides service. Looks like they do go to Sioux Center and its $3.
(800)358-5037
Services M -F 8am-5pm
Sorry I couldn't help you tonight. It was the one night Emily asked that I be home and available to the kids
Sent from my iPhone
The schedule below is for the week of the 22nd of August when I asked for a day off.
BEN7PM-8PM
5PM-CL
(tear
DOUGLAS
11AM-5PM
6:30AM-2PM
EMILY
8AM-3PM
7PM-IOPM
down)
8AM-3PM
7PM-8PM (tear
8AM-3PM
3PM-6PM
8AM-3PM
3PM-6PM
7AM-2PM
6:30AM-2PM 1:30-5:30PM
BETH
BRAD
I8AM-2PM
2PM-6PM
IIAM-5PM
down)
IIAM4PM
IIAM-5PM
IIAM-5PM
9AM-5PM
CALEB
SARA
(CLOSING)
SHARMEEN
3PM-5PM &
2PM-5PM
CARL
6AM-IIAM
6AM-IIAM
6AM-IIAM &
6AM-IIAM
6AM-IIAM
6AM-3PM
6AM-2PM
6AM-3PM
REEGAN
2:30-4PM
3PM-6PM
4PM-7PM
(A.O.C.)
(Setup)
COREY
5PM-CL
DOUGLAS
11AM-5PM
EMILY
IPM-3PM (T)
KAITLIN
1PM-3PM (T)
5PM-7PM (T)
4PM-7PM
(A.O.C.)
PAIGE
SARA
SHARMEEN
3PM-5PM &
2PM-5PM
2PM4PM
7PM-IOPM
STEVE
6AM-3PM
6AM-2PM
6AM-3PM
REEGAN
5PM-CLOSE
3PM-6PM
4PM-7PM
(A.O.C.)
baking
AMANDA
JOSH
baking
baking
5PM-CL
3PM-5PM 6:30AM-2PM
IPM-3PM (T)
5PM-7PM (T)
2PM-5PM 5PM-CLOSE
7PM-IOPM 7PM-IOPM 2PM-IOPM 2PM-5PM
6AM-3PM 6AM-3PM
3PM-5PM 5PM-CLOSE 5PM-CLOSE
baking
The e-mails below are of my communication with Mr. Mahr on August 291h /301h about having
to go back home to get painkillers for my infected tooth. From this, he knows I am trying to
take care of the infection and tells me that my overall communication at work is top-notch.
---On Tue, 30 Aug 201606:59:09-0500Steve Mahr <stevemmichaeLmah(a) maidcom>wrote----
Thanks Sharmeen!
ltnatyou. Thanksfor being considerate ofyour co-workers. Your communication is top notch!
Steve
On Mon, Aug 29, 1016 at 11:14 PM, Sharmeen Jones Gsharmeeniones(dzoho.com> wrote:
Hi Steve :)
Work was the usual, but I left at around 8:55pm and returned about 6 minutes later giving me enough time to
walk back to the house and grab my painkillers for my tooth. I notified Regan before I left and now, I'm notifying
you as I think this is proper procedure. I didn't want to leave her there alone, so I figured if I went home and took
the medicine, it could hold me until closing. We both finished at around 10:30pm.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
The e-mails below are between Mr. Bradley Smith and myself. He admits to getting in my way and
apologies for it. As a matter of fact, after speaking with Mr. Smith concerning this e-mail our work
relationship was fine. He even states that he hopes we continue to have a good time together as co-
workers. Does that read like a person who believes I am seriously mentally impaired?
--- On Fri, 11 Aug 1016 00:07:10-0500Brodley Smith <bradleyphilsmith@gmailcom> wrote ---
Sharmeen,
Firstly, I wanted to apologize for getting in your way today. That was wrong of me, and Pm sorry for nearly causing you to drop a drink Asa
part of the management staff, I want to give you every opportunity to do your job successfully and I see that I jailed to do that today. I really am
sorry.
I want to convey that this is not something I would do intentionally at all, and I'm sorry if it seemed like it was. One of my biggest faults as a
human is that I'm not very observant and I have my "head in the clouds"a lot. This causes me to drop things, run into people and get in the way.
This instance is not the first time this has been a problem, and I need to learn to focus and be more careful. So IM sorry that in this case, you did
not see the best side of me. But I do promise that it was not intentional, and 1 will do my best to be more careful in the future.
I hope you'll forgive me, and that we can continue to have a good time together as coworkers. If you d like to talk more about this, Pm happy to
have a conversation about it.
Sincerely,
Bradley
On Thursday, August 11, 2016, Sharmeen Jones esharmeeniones(a=ho.com> wrote:
Bradley Phil Smith
Marketing & Social Media
Old Factory t.;offm Shop
Orange City, Iowa
Dear Steve,
Was there a reason why Brad was in the coffee shop today on August 11th 2016? When he came In, he saw me
with a drink in my hand and instead of moving in a fashion that would give me easy passage, he deliberately
moved into my path causing me to nearly drop the drink. It was definitely intentional.
I am ccing this to Brad, so that he reads it directly from me. Seeing as how Brad is a member of management I
would expect better behavior.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D Jones
On September 13th 2016, 1 was discharged a day before the hearing. Dr. Lindahl came into my room
and told me she did not feel the need to keep me there longer, because she saw no signs of my being an
imminent danger to myself or others, due to a mental illness. Before returning to Orange City, I was told
by the court appointed lawyer, Mrs. Debra De Jong, the case would be dismissed and there would be no
need for a court hearing. Upon returning to Orange City, I went to see Mrs. De Jong because I wanted
her give me more detail about the hearing and the diagnosis. Over the phone, she told me it was rare
for court committals to be discharged, prior to the hearing date, even if there is no sign of mental illness.
When I met with her on September 16th 2016, she thought some of the procedures were not handled
properly. In a nutshell, it was as if it had never happened because there was no mental illness. Of
course, as it was only meant to humiliate me and scare me into silence.
On September 19th 2016, Mrs. Amy Van Roekel contacted me and told me the only way they would
consider keeping me on as an employee was to get a letter from the sherifrs office that no charges
had been brought against me, give them permission to speak with Mrs. De Jong, and provide a
doctor's note stating I could return to work. Please look at the following e-mails between Mrs. Van
Roekel and myself.
On Mon, Sep 19, 2016 at 9:15 AM, Sharmeen Jones <sharmeenionesCCDzoho.com> wrote:
Good morning Mrs. Van Roekel,
I just got off the phone with the sheriffs office and -was told no charges were pressed against me concerning the
evening of September 9th 2016. I was also informed that they do not provide written letters stating that
fact. Such a letter would be given by the court or my lawyer as it was given under a court order.
Mrs. Debra De long told me you can call her office any time and she would be more than happy to speak on my
behalf. However, I will ask her if she could provide you with a written statement.
I have the doctor's note which I can give you when I see you next.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones.,)
Sent using Zoho Mail
---- On Mon, 19 Sep 2016 06:57:09-0500Amy Van Roekel <avanroek0hooehaven.ora> wrote ----
In order to determine if we can consider your continued employment we will need the following things;
-Note from your Doctor that you saw in Sioux City
-Statement from the Sheriffs orFre stating that no charges were pressed in regards to the incident
on the evening of September 9th.
-Written statement from you saying that we may contact your lawyer to confirm that there are no
charges currently pending (please include her name and contact information as well).
Amy Van Roekel
Community Living Manager
Hope Haven, Inc.
Office #712-707-5070
Cell # 712-441-5883
"For it is God who is working in you, enabling you both to desire and to work out His good purpose." Philippians 2:13
On September 20`h 2016, 1 went to Hope Haven to speak with Mrs. Van Roekel. I gave her a copy of
the doctor's note and evaluation from Dr Lindahl and Mr. Paugh stating that I was not an imminent
danger to myself or others due to a mental illness. However, she insisted I give her a handwritten
letter giving her permission to speak with Mrs. De Jong. After receiving everything, she said she still
had to speak with Human Resources in Rock Valley, but from her experience, I would continue with
Hope Haven, but would not be able to work at the OC318 house where I was before and may have to
relocate to a different city. I assured her I understood her decision and would not have a problem
moving because I had to move anyway. In all that I find to be true about the personality of people, it
almost seemed as if she did not like my answer. It was as if she wanted to see disappointment in my
expression. Then, at 10:56pm on September 21", she told me to come into the office at 9:30pm the
next day. She apologized for it being short notice and though I agreed to meet her, I changed my
mind as I had a dentist appointment for another aching tooth. When I asked if I could see her in the
evening, she responded as follows:
--- On Thu, 22 Sep 2016 05:50:24-0500Amy Von Roekel <avanroek@hopehaven.org> wrote ----
The only time 1 will be available is at the time I gave you so you will need to make that work.
Sentfrom my iPhone
On Sep 21, 2016, at 11:09 PM, Sharmeen Jones <shormeeniones(dzoho.com> wrote:
Dear Mrs. Van Roekel,
If you don't mind, is it possible for me to come some time in the evening. I have a toothache and must see the
dentist tomorrow. 1 was hoping I could come to see you after I see him. I really hope this is OK.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
Sent using Zoho Mail
---- On Wed, 21 Sep 2016 22:56:49-050OSharmeen Jones <sharmeenionesrrbzoho.com> wrote ----
Dear Mrs. Van Roekel,
Yes, I can come tomorrow.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
Sent using Zoh_o_Mad
---- On Wed, 21 Sep 2016 22:36:41-0500Amy Van Roekel <avanroekdDhooehaven.oro> wrote ----
I know that this is shortnotice but I was wondering if it would work for you to come to my office tomorrow
(Thursday the 22nd) at 9:30am to discuss your employment. Please let me know!
Amy Van Roekel
Community Living Manager
Hope Haven, Inc. ,
Office #712-707-5070
Cell # 712-441-5883
"For it is God who is working in you, enabling you both to desire and to work out His good purpose." Philippians 2:13
I contacted her on September 23rd 2016 at which time she told me Hope Haven decided not to keep me
as an employee because of my behavior. How would you behave, if you know you are not an imminent
danger to yourself or others due to a mental illness, but in spite of this, a deputy shows up at your
workplace to haul you off to a mental institution, especially when you do not know if the laws about
court committals apply to you? Without anyone to support you, this law can be used to falsely
accused people and have them committed on the words of strangers. I believe it to be a very flawed
law.
After writing the letter like she wanted giving her permission to speak with my lawyer, she told me they
never called her as they did no longer needed to speak with her after making their decision. I thought
the point was to speak with the lawyer, in order to make a more well-informed decision. If Mrs. Van
Roekel had any intention of keeping me on as an employee, she would have contacted Mrs. De Jong. I
do not fault Mrs. Van Roekel, as a residential manager, for looking out for the best interest of Hope
Haven, but she was disingenuous from the moment she ushered me outside to be taken into custody by
the deputies to the moment she gave me the news of not continuing my employment. I was not even
given the chance to work, in order to financially support myself while looking for a newjob.
I have provided further information below to support my point of view. Please watch the following
video using a VLC media player. I am not sure, but they may work on your computer using another
media player. The date stamp on each video is incorrect. I have provided the correct dates in the
descriptions below:
A.) My last day working at the Old Factory on August 291" 2016 (OldFactory08292016A and
OldFactory08292016B)
Part A - At the very beginning of the video, Sara, nearly blows smoke in my face as I walk pass
her and gives me a very weak "Sorry;' but I keep focused on work. Mind you, she was not that
day. Around 3:00, she's directly behind me while I am trying to work. Around 5:18 of the video,
she stands behind me instructing me on how to work the machine and then interrupts my sale
to pay her tab. At about 22:25, Kaitlin is behind the counter and finished working when Brad
had.
Part B - At the very beginning, Sara is sharing a cigarette with Jake Miller. At around 2:30, Bard
comes into the shop to make himself a drink. Yet, another person behind the counter who is
not scheduled to be working at the time I was working. He clocked out at 6pm and the time
then, is about 7:45pm. There's very little room behind the counter and no one should really be
back there, if they are not working. Yet, I never complained about it, because I was placing all
my attention on my job. Anyone observing this would find it highly unprofessional.
B.) The Orange City deputies taking me into custody at the OC318 Hope Haven house — The video
speaks for itself (September 9th 2016)
C.) Mrs. Debra De Jong's explanation of the dismissal (September 16th 2016)
To sum it all up,
1. 1 have been blacklisted from well -paying jobs which has not allowed me to save the money I
need to move out of the house that belongs to Mrs. Diane Broek's father, Mr. David Van
Peursem.
2. After complaining about it to many high officials, I was given the opportunity to work for Hope
Haven in Orange City, Iowa.
3. 1 was taken into custody due to false allegations made by Mr. Steve Mahr and Mr. Bradley Smith
which jeopardize my employment with Hope Haven.
4. 1 was approved for apartment rental by Orange City Plaza Apartments, but cannot move out
because of losing my job at Hope Haven, as a result of Mr. Steve Mahr's and Mr. Bradley Smith's
false allegations.
Even if you do not believe in Organized Gangstalking, it should be evident that my committal to Mercy
Medical Center was senseless, cruel, and without justification.
For the past two days, a deputy has come to the house, but I will not answer the door due to what
transpired on September 91h 2016. It is quite evident that I will not be able to find steady employment in
Orange City, Iowa. I cannot continue to live in Mr. Van Peursem's house as Mrs. Broek's and her family
need to sell it, in order to pay for Mr. Van Peursem's care. So, what other options do I have?
I have cced this letter to my pastor who I could not reach while at Mercy Medical Center. At the
moment, I attend the Redeemer United Reformed Church in Orange City, Iowa. I did however speak
with the chaplain at the hospital and her words were very encouraging. I mentioned this as I truly
believe I will be fine as long as my faith in GOD does not waver and it never will. I was brought up as a
Southern Lutheran in the deep woods of Alabama and often attended Baptist churches with my
grandmother and learned that nothing is more supreme than GOD.
Respectfully,
Sharmeen D. Jones
4
DRAFT
IP15
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
MINUTES — September 13, 2016
CALL TO ORDER: Vice Chair Joseph Treloar called the meeting to order at 4:36 P.M.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Monique Green, Donald King (5:30 P.M.), Mazahir Salih (5:35
P.M.), Orville Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Kellie Fruehling, Staff and Patrick Ford, Legal Counsel
STAFF ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: John Kirby, Public
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL
(1) Accept CPRB Annual report
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
Vice Chair Treloar handed out an outline for the orientation. He went over a description of the
Board, the complaint process, and Board member responsibilities.
During the orientation, John Kirby, a member of the public, asked questions concerning a
potential complaint he might have. Treloar explained the process to him and also stated that
the Board would not comment unless a complaint form had been filed and the process
followed.
Kirby thanked the Board and left the meeting and Treloar continued with the orientation.
Motion by Townsend, seconded by Green to recess the meeting until 5:30 P.M. to allow the
remaining members to arrive.
Motion carried, 3/0, King and Salih absent.
(Recess at 5:12 P.M. until 5:30 P.M.)
CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by King, seconded by Green, to adopt the consent calendar as presented or amended.
Minutes of the meeting on 08/17/16
• ICPD Department Memorandum #16-07 (March 2016 Use of Force Review)
• ICPD Use of Force Report — March 2016
Motion carried, 4/0, Salih absent.
r
September 13, 2016
Page 2
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
Select Nominating Committee - King and Townsend volunteered to be on the nominating
committee. They will report back to the Board with recommendations for Chair and Vice Chair
at the next meeting.
CPRB FY16 Annual Report (DRAFT) — The Board reviewed the draft prepared by staff of the
annual report.
Motion by King, seconded by Salih, to approve the annual report as drafted and forward to the
City Council. Motion carried, 5/0.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
None.
BOARD INFORMATION
Salih informed the Board of the annual fundraiser dinner for the Center for Worker Justice on
Friday, October 14th at St Patrick's Catholic Church.
STAFF INFORMATION
Fruehling stated that there would be no executive session due to the Board receiving the
complaint information (including audio/video) at the meeting and having no time to review.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Not needed.
TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE and FUTURE AGENDAS (subject to chance)
• October 11, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• November 8, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm (Election day, will be rescheduled)
• December 13, 2016, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
• January 10, 2017, 5:30 PM, Helling Conference Rm
Staff will coordinate with members and try to schedule another meeting before the tentatively
scheduled October 11th meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion for adjournment by Salih, seconded by King.
Motion carried, 5/0.
Meeting adjourned at 5:49 P.M.
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2015-2016
(Meeting Date)
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
TERM
9/8
10/12
12/16
1/20
1/25
2/17
4/12
4/26
5/18
5/23
6/7
8/17
9/13
NAME
EXP.
Melissa
9/1/16
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
---
---
Jensen
Joseph
9/1/17
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Treloar
Royceaun
9/1/16
O
X
O
X
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O
---
---
Porter
Mazahir
9/1/17
X
O
O/E
O
X
O
NM
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
Salih
Donald
9/1/19
---
X
X
X
X
O
NM
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
King
Monique
7/1/20
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
—
X
X
Green
Orville
7/1/20
---
—
—
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
---
X
X
Townsend
KEY: X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = No meeting
--- = Not a Member
COMMUNITY POLICE REVIEW BOARD
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Established in 1997, by ordinance #97-3792, the Iowa City Police Citizens Review Board formerly
known as Citizens Police Review Board and now known as Community Police Review Board
(hereafter referred as the CPRB), consists of five members appointed by the City Council. The CPRB
has its own outside legal counsel.
The Board was established to review investigations into claims of police misconduct, and to assist the
Police Chief, the City Manager, and the City Council in evaluating the overall performance of the
Police Department by reviewing the Police Department's investigations into complaints. The Board is
also required to maintain a central registry of complaints and to provide an annual report setting forth
the numbers, types, and disposition of complaints of police misconduct. The Board shall hold at least
one community forum each year for the purpose of hearing citizens' views on the policies, practices
and procedures of the Iowa City Police Department. To achieve these purposes, the Board complies
with Chapter 8 of the Iowa City Code and the Board's By -Laws and Standard Operating Procedures
and Guidelines.
ACTIVITIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016
Meetings
The CPRB tentatively holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday and special meetings as
necessary. During FY16 the Board held eleven meetings and one Community Forum.
ICPD Policies/Procedures/Practices Reviewed By CPRB
The ICPD regularly provided the Board with monthly Use of Force Reports, Internal Investigation
Logs, Demographic Reports and various Training Bulletins. The Department also provided various
General Orders for the Board's review and comment. A senior member of the Police Department
routinely attended the open portion of the CPRB meetings, and was available for any questions Board
members had regarding these reports.
Presentations
In April of 2016 the Board held its eighth Community Forum as required by the City Charter. The
Board did introductions, a brief overview and an update of the name change was given, and the forum
was opened to the public for questions. There was one member of the public that spoke at the forum,
in which they thanked the Board for their service to the Community.
Board Members
In October 2015 officers were nominated with Melissa Jensen as Chair and Joseph Treloar as Vice -
Chair. Donald King was appointed in September of 2015 for a four-year term.
COMPLAINTS
Number and Type of Allegations
Five complaints (15-03, 16-01, 16-02, 16-03, 16-04) were filed during the fiscal year July 1, 2015 —
June 30, 2016. Two public reports were completed during this fiscal period (15-02, 16-02). Two
complaints were summarily dismissed (15-03, 16-01) and two complaints filed in FY16 are pending
before the Board (16-03, 16-04).
Allegations
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 09/13/2016 —1
Complaint #15-02
1. Unprofessional Behavior— Rudeness and Harassment— NOT SUSTAINED.
2. Differential Treatment —Violation of Civil Rights —NOT SUSTAINED.
3. False Reports — NOT SUSTAINED.
Complaint #15-03
SUMMARILY DISMISSED
Complaint #16-01
SUMMARILY DISMISSED
Complaint #16-02
1. Questionable interview and Interrogation tactics — SUSTAINED.
2. Unlawful Seizure of the Complainant's cell phone — SUSTAINED.
Level of Review
The Board decided, by simple majority vote, the level of review to give each report, selecting one or
more of the six levels specified in the City Code per complaint:
Level a
On the record with no additional investigation 2
Level b
Interview or meet with complainant 0
Level c
Interview or meet with named officer 0
Level d
Request additional investigation by Chief or 0
City Manager, or request police assistance
in the Board's own investigation
Level a
Board performs its own additional investigation 0
Level f
Hire independent investigators 0
Complaint Resolutions
The Police Department investigates complaints to the CPRB of misconduct by police officers. The
Police Chief summarizes the results of these investigations and indicates in a report (the Chief's
Report) to the CPRB whether allegations are sustained or not sustained. (If complaints are made
against the Chief, the City Manager conducts the investigation and prepares and submits the reports.)
The Board reviews both the citizens' complaint and the Chiefs Report and decides whether its
conclusions about the allegations should be sustained or not sustained. The Board prepares a report
which is submitted to the City Council.
Of the Five allegations listed in the two complaints for which the Board reported, two were sustained.
The Board made comments and/or recommendations for improvement in police policy, procedures, or
conduct in two of the reports:
Complaint #15-02 — The complete video and audio record alone clearly refutes all of the allegations of
misconduct as baseless. In fact, after extensive audio and video review during this investigation, the
Complainant agreed the officer did not commit the violations that were alleged.
Complaint #16-02 — If an interpreter was needed when the Complainant met with the investigator from
Internal Affairs, someone other than one of the officers named in the complaint should have been
used.
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 09/13/2016 — 2
Name -Clearing Hearings
The ordinance requires that the Board not issue a report critical of the conduct of a sworn officer until
after a name -clearing hearing has been held. During this fiscal period, the Board scheduled one
name -clearing hearing, but none were held.
Complaint Histories of Officers
City ordinance requires that the annual report of the CPRB must not include the names of
complainants or officers involved in unsustained complaints and must be in a form that protects the
confidentiality of information about all parties. In the two complaints covered by the FY16 annual
report a total of six officers were involved with allegations against them.
ICPD Internal Investigations Logs
The Board reviewed the quarterly ICPD Internal Investigations Log, provided by the Chief of Police.
COMPLAINT DEMOGRAPHICS
The following is demographic information from the seven complaints that were completed in this fiscal
year. Because complainants provide this voluntarily, the demographic information may be
incomplete.
* Category/Number of Complainants
Age: National Origin: Color:
Under 21 0 American 0 White
21 & over 1 Unknown 2 Black
Unknown 1 Brown
Unknown
Sexual Orientation:
Gender Identity:
Sex:
Heterosexual
0
Female
0
Female
Unknown
2
Male
1
Male
Unknown
1
Unknown
Marital Status:
Religion:
Mental Disability:
Single
1
Unknown
1
No
Married
0
None
0
Yes
Unknown
1
Baptist
1
Unknown
Divorced
0
Physical Disability:
No 0
Yes 1
Unknown 1
* Information is reported as presented by the person completing the form.
BOARD MEMBERS
Melissa Jensen, Chair
Joseph Treloar, Vice Chair
Royceann Porter
Mazahir Salih
Fidencio Martinez/Donald King
CPRB Annual Report FY 2016 — Approved 09/13/2016 — 3