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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-10-21 Bd Comm minutes�5 MINUTES OF THE IOWA CITY HOUSING ComuSSION Wednesday, October 1, 1980 at 3:30 P.M. Conference Room Civic Center MEMBERS PRESENT: Klaus, Karstens, Koenig, VanderZee, Graf, Haendel, Dennis" STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Plinn, Schmeiser, Steinbach I. Meeting to Order - The Meeting was called to Order by Chairperson Klaus at 3:30 p.m. IT. Minutes of Fleeting of September 3, 1980 - Approved 6/0 on motion by Karstens, seconded by Haendel, III. Coordinator's Report - Seydel reported 354 units under lease on October 1. He indicated that all Certificates were out or being issued this date. 52 new applications were submitted for approval. Public Housing - no further action has been taken,AHOP and HAP re- quirements being more stringently imposed by HUD. IV. Election Of Officers - Discussion re postponement of Election until completion of Housing Code Revision. Term will run to May, 1981, Moved by Haendel, seconded by Karstens, that Diane Klaus continue as Zee, secondednbyfHousing Karstens,CthatsGoldeneAproved 7/. MoveHaendel be0electeddViceVCander hair - person of the Housing Commission. Approved 7/0. V. Reports - CCN - VanderZee expressed concern over the renovation of property in the Small Cities area for the purpose of making a profit, and indicated that this had been discussed at CCN. He indicated this had been discussed, but that the Committee had been advised that it is legally permissable for someone to improve property in this area regardless of city acquisition. Zoning Ordinance Update - Schmeiser advised anticipated timetable for completion and Public hearings on zoning ordinance, that Planning and Zoning will probably hold public hearings 3rd Thursday in October through 1st Thursday in November prior to submission t City Council public hearings. o Council and VI. Discussion - Question regarding Housin A ing for 8:00 a.m. October 9, 1980. g PPeals Board. Sot meet - Joint Meeting: Iowa City housing Commission and Housing Code Task Force MEMBERS PRESENT: Klaus, Dennis, Haendel, Bailey, Nowysz, Barfuss, Cross, Hamer, Barfus. (All Members of Housing Commission Remaining), MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA9 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES M0INES Iowa City (lousing Commission/(lousing Code Task Force - 10-1-80 - 4:00 P.M. Klaus reported that the Draft is completed, that Task Force will meet Thursday October 2, and if draft is approved it will be mailed to (lousing Commission on Friday (October 3, 1980). Discussion centered around major differences between current Housing Code and proposed new Code. Major changes involve deletion of certain items from present code that were believed to belong elsewhere, be redundant, or unen- forceable. Proposal includes adopting at least the minimum of HUD standards. State Code calls for "regular inspections." Commission members should be thinking in terms of defining "regular". Specific changes will be noted in "Recommendations to Council" upon transmittal of proposed draft to Council. V11. Adjournment - Moved Haendol, second Koenig, that meeting be adjourned. Approved 7/0. Adjourned 5:00 p.m. Approved: NI. Diane Klaus Chairperson MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAF3 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i i i I -.a 1 I i i Iowa City (lousing Commission/(lousing Code Task Force - 10-1-80 - 4:00 P.M. Klaus reported that the Draft is completed, that Task Force will meet Thursday October 2, and if draft is approved it will be mailed to (lousing Commission on Friday (October 3, 1980). Discussion centered around major differences between current Housing Code and proposed new Code. Major changes involve deletion of certain items from present code that were believed to belong elsewhere, be redundant, or unen- forceable. Proposal includes adopting at least the minimum of HUD standards. State Code calls for "regular inspections." Commission members should be thinking in terms of defining "regular". Specific changes will be noted in "Recommendations to Council" upon transmittal of proposed draft to Council. V11. Adjournment - Moved Haendol, second Koenig, that meeting be adjourned. Approved 7/0. Adjourned 5:00 p.m. Approved: NI. Diane Klaus Chairperson MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAF3 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES n MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING APPEALS BOARD AUGUST 28, 1980 MEMBERS PRESENT: Klaus, Haendel, VanderZee, Graf, Karstens, Dennis, Koenig. MEMBERS ABSENT: None. STAFF PRESENT: Hoard, Kuebler, Malone, Steinbach, Woito. Meeting was called to order by Chairperson Klaus at 7:40 P.M. Minutes of the July 10, 1980, meeting were accepted 5/0 on motion by VanderZee, seconded by Graf. MR. Steinbach stated that on August 11 and 12, 1980, approximately 44 units at Lakeside Apartments were made eligible for rent escrow. Pursuant to such notices, Mr. Joseph Ebner made proper application for an appeal before the Housing Appeals Board, said appeal request was received by the City Clerk on August 21, 1980. Steinbach stated to the Housing Appeals Board that it would be their responsibility to reach a decision to determine whether or not the rent escrow program is an appropriate method as per the code in achieving compliance with the outstanding orders. Steinbach stated that in a letter dated July 25, 1980, from the Housing Division to the managers of Lakeside Apartments, the procedures by which the City would conduct systematic inspections of all inhabited units in Lakeside were discussed. Included with that correspondence was a copy of an inspection checklist intended to assist the Housing Inspector in determining whether or not the service was being supplied. A breakdown of the checklist will show that the inspector based any and all determinations `upon: Proper fan operation Proper thermostat operation Obvious chilled air being supplied to the unit Thermostat being properly mounted Obvious water leaks within the air conditioning system It was agreed by all interested individuals that all 44 units made eligible for rent escrow would be handled in one decision package. Mr. Ebner stated that until early July, 1980, he presumed that all air conditioning systems at Lakeside were operating as they should be. He stated that in the fall of 1979, in order to assure proper shutdown for winter and start up in the spring of the air conditioning systems, $32,000 was expended to Comfort Systems to perform such work. Ebner stated that the Lakeside Apartments were purchased on April 4, 1979 and the current owners were not made aware of any deficiencies in the air conditioning systems at that time. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES ■ _ Housing Appeals Board August 28, 1980 Page 2 Mr. Ebner stated that Chas. Goering Company from Des Moines had worked on the air conditioning systems during the month of July, 1980 and had, upon completion of their work, led Mr. Ebner to believe that all systems were functioning and that at least one individual on the staff at Lakeside had been supplied with sufficient training to assist in the general maintenance of the air conditioning systems. He stated that their bill to Hawaiian Midwest Management Corporation was approximately $9,000. Further, a Mr. Bill Ryan from Cedar Rapids had been employed by the manager at Lakeside, Mr. Dan Culivan, to assist in the repair and to be a consultant concerning technical mechanics of system. this air conditioning i Ebner stated that on July 28, 1980, Lakeside managers employed four individuals plus the individuals who had been trained by the Goering g Company to flush the lines that led to each individual dwelling unit in 9 order that each unit be supplied with proper service. Mr. Ebner stated that all considered, after having expended in excess of $42,000, the Lakeside management was still making efforts to bring the air conditioning into proper condition. He stated that the management at Lakeside has, and will continue to do whatever can be done to bring the systems into proper operation. Mr. Ebner questioned the basis of the decision making in regards to determination of the proper operation of an air conditioning system simply by the feel of the air. He felt that a more just standard should be applied in determining the proper opration and comfort of the tenant concerning air conditioning. He stated that Lakeside is spending all the money it possibly can and employing persons who are known to be experts in the field of air conditioning. The Board questioned inspectors Kuebler and Malone as to what they had found in conducting inspectors determined field inspections th tnot oly were many fans enot in operation but many of the inspections and numerous reinspections were conducted on somewhat cooler days in such case as any benefit of the doubt was, in their opinion, given to the proper operation of the systems. Steinbach then explained to the Board what the mechanisms of the rent escrow program were and how the City, tenants, and management of Lakeside would be involved in the program. He further stated that if the Notices of Eligibility were upheld, each affected tenant would have 30 days from that date to make proper application and be certified for the program. The Board asked the legal staff about the checklist in determining the proper operation of the air conditioning systems. Woito responded that she and Steinbach had reviewed the checklist and it was her feeling that it was about as an objective set of items to check to determine air conditioning as possible. Further, Woito stated that it was the City's posture that the Inspection Division did not have the authority to determine the comfort level of the tenants. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Housing Appeals Board, August 28, 1980 Page 3 The inspectors stated that it was their feeling that within many of the units, the problem of air conditioning not being supplied was due to miswired thermostats and malfunctioning fan motors. Mr. Ebner responded that he had not been made aware of these situations and that it was his opinion that these would be minor alterations and expenses and would be looked into and corrected starting "tomorrow" (August 29, 1980). Karstens moved, Haendel seconded, that the Notices for Eligibility for Rent Escrow be upheld as written. Motion passed on a 5/0 vote. Haendel moved, Dennis seconded, that the Housing Appeals Board meeting be adjourned. Adjournment by unanimous vote. Prepared by: Approved by:^ �4 I: is I ' ` ile/F/7 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB it CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES MINUTES PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 18, 1980 CITY COUNCIL CIVIC CENTER i i MEMBERS PRESENT: Lehman, Kammermeyer, Ogesen, Vetter MEMBERS ABSENT: Horton, Jakobsen, Blum (late) I STAFF PRESENT: Schmeiser, Boothroy, Tyler, Scholten RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: 5-8013. That the preliminary and final Large Scale Non-residential Development plan of Thomas and Betts/Ansley Corporation, located on Highway 218 South; 45 -day limitation period: 10/27/80; 60 -day limitation signatures lofl/80 be the utility co paries, and Complianceect to legal ers with the in order Stormwater, Management Ordinance. SUBDIVISION 5-8013. Public discussion of the preliminary and final Large Scale Non- residential Development plan of Thomas and Betts/Ansley Corporation, located on Highway 218 South; 45 -limitation period: 10/27/80; 60 -day limitation period: 11/11/80. Mike Kammerer, of Shive-Hattery, explained that Thomas and Betts merely wanted to make an addition to an existing building. He stated that the company was under a time constraint, needing to have the addition completed by February 1, 1981 in order to comply with an agreement with the firm's main office. In order to meet this deadline, construction needs to commence as soon as possible. He stated that Thomas and Betts fully intends to comply with the LSNRD provisions. He added that preliminary computations indicated that the Stormwater Management Ordinance provisions were met. Boothroy stated that Engineering has not yet had time to complete a thorough study of the Stormwater Management plan and wanted to withhold final approval until the computations were complete, however, the preliminary assessment is that the existing plan will be satisfactory. A memo is being prepared by Engineering for City Council. ies existant fiDeficienciesed and signatures fcthe utilities n ed to be that e obtained. need to be Ogesen expressed concern over the new sewer line emptying into a septic tank. 800throy and Kammerer explained that the septic system is no longer being used except for a concrete collection box. Water flows from the MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES I MINUTES PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION j SEPTEMBER 18, 1980 PAGE 2 'r collection box to a lift station from which the water is pumped into the j city sewer system. Members suggested that the label on the plan be changed from septic tank to collection box. i The Chair moved that the preliminary and final Large Scale Non-residential Development plan of Thomas and Betts/Ansley Corporation, located on Highway 218 South be approved subject to legal papers being in order, signatures of the utility companies and compliance with the Stormwater Management Ordinance. Motion carried unanimously. 5-8012. Public discussion of the preliminary plat, PAD, and Large Scale Residential Development plan of Court Hill -Scott Boulevard, Part VIII, located south of Lower West Branch Road; 45 -day limitation period: 10/16/80; 60 -day limitation period: 10/31/80. Larry Schnittjer of MMS Consultants representing the developer, stated that the developer had already done considerable work on the site including extending the storm sewer and regrading the site. The plan proposes 16 units similar to those on the site directly south. The plan provides for right-of-way for Scott Boulevard at its present width, and extending sewer lines. In total, 22 dwelling units are proposed including two single-family dwellings on lots 2 and 3. Discussion arose about the exterior of the buildings. Members asked for I elevations of the units by Lower West Branch Road. Neighbors expressed concern that the units look exactly the same as those to the south. Vetter encouraged the developer to look into ways to create visually different exteriors to avoid the feeling of tract housing. Hershberger responded that the existing units had met excellent response by the owners and that landscaping and color changes would mitigate the tract image. Ogesen requested that the developer submit a list delineating the differences in the exteriors of the proposed units. Members questioned what specific plans existed for lots 2 and 3. Schnittjer explained that lot 2 is under a purchase option to Systems Unlimited. Their exact plans are not known. Schmeiser stated that he had received a phone call expressing concern that the Systems house would contain 48 units. He explained that staff had always considered this as a family care facility which would allow only six unrelated adults living in the same facility. Members suggested that the lot be specifically labeled as family care facility to avoid any possible misinterpretation. Bruce Glasgow stated that as the owner of the property, he could assure the Commission and the neighbors that the proposed facility was a single- family building with an apartment for the caretakers, three bedrooms for I the residents and a living room. Sterling Benz of 309 Oberlin who will be living across from the proposed Systems house expressed concern that it remain a family care facility. i Mr. Benz also raised concern over the traffic impact on the neighborhood. He pointed out that a daycare facility is located on the corner of Oberlin and "the proposed Tulane court". Eliaz Zaharias, another neighbor, MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOIRES MINUTES PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 18, 1980 PAGE 3 expressed the same concern. Commission members discussed the possibility of providing another intersection which would place traffic on Lower West Branch Road. One problem might be the creation of a lot that fronts a street on three sides. Another would be that the proposed plan might have to be redesigned. Zaharias expressed his specific concern over the traffic created by a Systems house. He stated that more than average residential traffic is generated by such a facility. The possibility of moving the location of the Systems house was raised. Glasgow stated that FHA regulations were very strict and that if this location were to be moved an entire eight dwelling unit project of which this site is a part, would have to be redone. He added that it had taken three years to get the project to its present point. Schmeiser stated that this lot could be dropped from the plan and the Systems house built under a separate building permit. Hershberger stated that bid letting for the Systems house would take place Friday, September 19, 1980, and that the plans had been approved by HUD. Ogesen requested a copy of the plans_. Lehman moved and Blum seconded that the Commission defer a vote on the plan until the next formal meeting. The motion carried unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS: Discussion on the new Zoning Ordinance was postponed until next week. Two special sessions of the Commission will take place next week in order to discuss the new Zoning Ordinance. Dick Blum was appointed to serve as an alternate to the Johnson County Council of Governments. Another Commissioner will be appointed in the future. Ogesen requested a future discussion of the changes in the Hawkeye Arena since the plan had been submitted to the Commission. Meeting adjourned. Prepared by: Andrea Tyler ' Minute Taker Approved by: chard Blum Secretary MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES f MINUTES j COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS OCTOBER 1, 1980 f RECREATION CENTER ROOM A i' I MEMBERS PRESENT: Hall, McCormick, Barker, Johnson, Pecina, Bonney, Vanderzee, Haldeman f i MEMBERS ABSENT: Draper, Montgomery d l STAFF PRESENT: Milkman, Hencin, Schmadeke, Vezina, Keller, Steinbach, j Siders, Tyler GUESTS PRESENT: Jane Jakobsen, Maria Ahern, Lee Vaughan, Charles Eastham, of RCCC, Haywood Bell, Ed Brinton of B&B Engineering, Curt Seifert of the Press -Citizen. FORMA_ L�1ON TAKEN The Committee recommends that Staff arrange for neighborhood meetings, the size and times to be determined by Staff, in order to begin to determine neighborhood boundaries for participation in the Neighborhood Statistics Program of the U.S. Census Bureau. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Minutes of the September 3, 1980 meeting were approved as circulated. DISCUSSION OF RALSTON CREEK COORDINATING COMMITTEE'S PRIORITIES Milkman explained that members of RCCC were invited in order to help CCN establish priorities for improvements to reduce flooding along Ralston Creek. Ed Brinton explained that the priorities set by RCCC in June, 1979 were influenced by five criteria. 1) Work should take place downstream to upstream in order to improve outlets before improving the creek's ability to flood, 2) Doing the most good for people at the least cost. 3) After the initial funding of the two dams by HUD, that further funding would come locally 4) Acquiring properties only when necessary 5) To buy necessary properties when the price is right (or when available). The first two priorities were to build dams on the South and North branches and to make improvements along Lower Ralston Creek, as these would reduce n much of the flooding during major flood periods. Since these projects are 4 already funded, the next priority area was slated in the Memory Gardens )J and F Street area. Brinton explained that although this did not strictly adhere to the downstream to upstream concept, that it became a high priority because no property would have to be acquired. He suggested that CCN mto ight particularly be interested in it because the neighborhood is a low prioridtieselistedebyrRCCCHespeciallyainClightuld of thetfactythatntheyhhad access to federal funds rather than just local funds. However, he em- phasized that the downstream to upstream concept could not be ignored. Rlinton also indicated that priority q4 (Glendale Court to Sheridan Avenue) would fit the downstream/upstrean criterion and also effect a low/moderate i I income area. i - i9.Q MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB i; ' CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES li COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS OCTOBER 1, 1980 page 2 Discussion took place between the CCN members and RCCC members about various aspects of setting the priorities. Johnson pointed out that maintenance was a problem. Milkman agreed , saying that RCCC had made a list of excellent recommendations in regard to maintenance and improvements but that Council had not responded and that a maintenance program did not appear in the budget, nor were any creek improvements included in the capital improvements program. DISCUSSION OF SMALL CITIES PHASE III ACQUISITION VanderZee initiated discussion about property at 914 S. Dubuque being improved for the expressed purpose of raising the property value in order to force the City to pay more when the projected condemnation, under the Lower Ralston Creek Neighborhood Revitaliza- tion Project, thereby generating higher profits for the owner. VanderZee stated that some concerned parties on the Housing Commission had relayed the information to him that the property owner had stated that this was his intent. Milkman stated that Staff was quite concerned about people making improvements on property slated for condemnation simply in order to make a greater profit, especially when the land is acquired after condemnation plans are made public. However, this is legal. Up to the time of condemnation, the property owner can make whatever improvements he cares to. Members suggested that the improvements should be carefully monitored and the building code strictly enforced. Siders stated that the permit granted was for a single family dwelling and that to date, all the construction did meet code. Milkman pointed out that a moratorium on housing inspections was in effect in the area but that an exception might be made for properties which were being improved since the intent of the moratorium was to spare property owners extra expense on properties slated for demolition. Johnson questioned whether acquistion of that particular piece of property was necessary for the project. Hencin and Milkman responded that there were several important reasons to acquire the property. It had not been determined that the property was not needed for creek im- provements and that if it was not acquired that might cause problems, if, after construction begins, it is then determined that it is necessary. Also, the City Council has the policy of treating everyone equitably, so everyone's property on that block will be acquired. Furthermore, the project is attempting to be in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan which has slated the area for commercial zoning. Commercial zoning requires larger lots and not acquiring this parcel could result in the City owning some small, unuseable parcels. Moreover, the project. is a package and changing acquisition of properties could result in a long delay. CCN members were very concerned about property owners taking advantage of the federal program and encouraged Staff to scrutinize the activity and in no way help Campion by overlooking code requirements. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Rai 4 s COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS OCTOBER 1, 1980 page 3 DISCUSSION OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD STATISTICS PROGRAM Keller explained that the U.S. Census Bureau is initiating a new program which would give cities access to data on a neighborhood level. Parti- cipation in the program would be beneficial because it would target areas for special improvements. He stated that the trend for funding seems to be aimed at smaller areas and that this program would alleviate need for Staff to do block by block assessments. The real benefit is in providing helpful statistics. In order to qualify for the program, neighborhoods must be defined and apparatus for citizen input must be set up. Discussion followed revolving around whether CCN should be reorganized in order to encourage more citizen participation and specifically neighbor- hood representation. Members determined that they felt that CCN was functioning well as it presently exists. Discussion also focused on what real benefits would accrue from the program. Johnson moved and Pecina seconded that the Committee proceed with the present structure unless Staff determined that it was in the best interests of Staff and CCN to make changes and that at that time Staff should in- form CCN of that need. Motion was defeated 3 to 4 with Pecina, Johnson, and Haldeman voting yes. After some further discussion, Bonney moved and Barker seconded that Staff arrange for neighborhood meetings, the size and time to be deter- mined by Staff, in order to begin to determine neighborhood boundaries for participation in the Neighborhood Statistics Program of the U.S. Census Bureau. The motion carried 4-0 with Johnson, Pecina, and Haldeman abstaining. Meeting adjourned. Prepared by I I'1 i) —•J _'Al J Andrea Tyler Minute Taker I ii I., MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R+LAa '•� CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES r:. B COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS OCTOBER 1, 1980 page 3 DISCUSSION OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD STATISTICS PROGRAM Keller explained that the U.S. Census Bureau is initiating a new program which would give cities access to data on a neighborhood level. Parti- cipation in the program would be beneficial because it would target areas for special improvements. He stated that the trend for funding seems to be aimed at smaller areas and that this program would alleviate need for Staff to do block by block assessments. The real benefit is in providing helpful statistics. In order to qualify for the program, neighborhoods must be defined and apparatus for citizen input must be set up. Discussion followed revolving around whether CCN should be reorganized in order to encourage more citizen participation and specifically neighbor- hood representation. Members determined that they felt that CCN was functioning well as it presently exists. Discussion also focused on what real benefits would accrue from the program. Johnson moved and Pecina seconded that the Committee proceed with the present structure unless Staff determined that it was in the best interests of Staff and CCN to make changes and that at that time Staff should in- form CCN of that need. Motion was defeated 3 to 4 with Pecina, Johnson, and Haldeman voting yes. After some further discussion, Bonney moved and Barker seconded that Staff arrange for neighborhood meetings, the size and time to be deter- mined by Staff, in order to begin to determine neighborhood boundaries for participation in the Neighborhood Statistics Program of the U.S. Census Bureau. The motion carried 4-0 with Johnson, Pecina, and Haldeman abstaining. Meeting adjourned. Prepared by I I'1 i) —•J _'Al J Andrea Tyler Minute Taker I ii I., MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R+LAa '•� CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES r:. I w MINUTES j DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE SEPTEMBER 17, 1960 CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM i oo1 i MEMBERS PRESENT: Alexander, Seiberling, Summerwill, Sinek, LaFore, Lilly, Wegman, Haupert. MEMBERS ABSENT: Wockenfuss. GUESTS: Jack Klaus, Nancy Halak, Wilfreda Hieronymus, David Perret, Sandy Eskin. STAFF: Chiat, Hauer, Tyler. " SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION OF PLAZA TOWERS ASSOCIATES' PRELIMINARY DESIGN PLANS Nancy Halak, architect from Harry Weese and Associates of Chicago, presented the preliminary design plans for the Plaza Towers Associates hotel/department store project. She stated that the plans grew out of four major goals which the firm had posited: 1) To provide an anchor for the downtown to counter balance Old Capitol Center. 2) To relate to the adjacent pedestrian mall. 3) To encourage pedestrian circulation within the Plaza Towers development. 4) To avoid traffic congestion. The design for the structure grew out of these major goals. In order to provide an anchor, the mass of the structure where Armstrong's will be located will be at the north and east portion of the site, with its main frontage running along College Street. The hotel will be located in a triangular section in the southwest section, with the apex of the triangle located at the corner of College. and Dubuque. This positioning of the hotel provides a softening of the massive impact of a thirteen story building on the pedestrian mall. Massing will also be reduced by the exterior materials of brick and silver reflecting glass. In order to avoid congestion, a through street will run between the site and the new parking ramp. This will allow guests to be dropped at the hotel without interfering with traffic. The street will be landscaped with trees to make it more attractive. It will also provide an access from Linn Street to the arcade. A loading dock will be accessible from the street but will be below grade in order to reduce the visibility of loading and receiving activities. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICF;?#LAB a CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Design Review Committee September 17, 1980 Page 2 The lowest levels will be a basement and sub -basement. The basement will contain the hotel's main kitchen and a 400 person convention hall with modular walls. A glass elevator will take people from the basement to the next two levels. The main level will house a galleria and retail area and the hotel lobby (which will be away from the main retail area). This will be Armstrong's main floor. The second level will contain retail shops, s Armstrong's second floor, and a glass enclosed access to the ramp. The third level through the thirteenth level will be hotel rooms. The fourteenth floor will house a restaurant with a "sweeping view of the city." e In response to questions, Halek explained that the galleria would be enclosed by a glass skylight, the materials for which would be determined by energy efficiency and lighting quality. She stated that the exterior glass would be held in place by aluminum. An airdoor will provide the main entrance from City Plaza into the galleria at the northwest corner of the site. The galleria will provide the open area into Armstrong's. No door into Armstrong's from College Street is planned at this time. Armstrong's will have metal gates to pull down at night so that the ---- ---- - - - galleria will remain open all night. Members raised several questions about the exterior. The tower will be of reflecting glass. The rest of the exterior will be brick. Hieronymus assured the Committee that the white glazed brick which Armstrong's favored, originally had been ruled out. An arcade will run along College Street and Dubuque Street to provide protection for pedestrians. The columns on College Street will be brick clad. The walkways around Armstrong's will be City sidewalks but wherever walkways from the mall into the building occur, the walkways will match the existing City sidewalks. Members asked for specific information about the glass exterior materials. Halak said that the actual materials had not been chosen but that she envisioned spandral glass backed with insulation and drywall, which would be very energy efficient. She estimated that the size of the glass panes would be from three to five feet in height. Perret asked specifically about the type of aluminum to be used and requested color photographs of similar buildings. Some members expressed concern over how the building related to the rest of the downtown. They asked what the exterior wall along Linn Street would look like. They were informed that whether or not windows were placed in the wall would depend on the use of the space. Concern was expressed over how the structure will relate to the new library. Discussion arose about the possibility of providing an entrance at the corner of College Street and Linn Street. Halak said that was possible and that Armstrong's was not opposed to it. However, because of the drop in elevation, steps would have to be placed in the entrance. Members questioned why the pool was located several levels away from the other recreation facilities. Halak explained that the demands for retail � r9aa MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R+LA Ia CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i a r Design Review Committee September 17, 1980 Page 3 space and the expense of hanging the pool forced it into the sub -basement. She stated that the decision to open the pool to community use would be up to the hotel management. The pool will be 25 feet by 40 feet with an undetermined depth, possibly only five feet. The elevators will all be inside. The three levels of the atrium will be f connected by a glass enclosed elevator. The elevator housing has to be on a the top of the tower. The hotel will have internal mechanical equipment but cost studies are still being done to determine whether or not Armstrong's will have internal or rooftop equipment housing. Halak assured the Committee that if the equipment is rooftop, everything possible will be done to mask it. Hieronymus stated that First Hospitality will be the hotel management consultants but that the hotel will be locally owned and operated. The consultants had seen the preliminary design plans and given general approval. Perret expressed concern over the lack of access to Dubuque from the Hotel. Halak stated that most people will come by car and that the galleria will provide access. The developers assured the Committee that very few changes in the design are anticipated as Armstrong's has already signed a lease and much of the work has been costed already. However, the Committee expressed concern over a lack of specific informa- tion. In response to the Committee's query about the elevation of the tower in comparison to the Old Capitol, they were told the developers did not have the information but would provide it in the future. Some members expressed concern over the height of the building. The Committee was most concerned that the design would change appreciably and that the Committee would not be notified of the changes. They also expressed grave concern over the actual materials that would be used in the exterior. Several members expressed approval of the openness of the building and the proposed reflecting glass exterior. Chiat stated that two members of the Committee, Tom Wegman and Nancy Seiberling, had a possible conflict of interest on this particular vote. He said that Plaza Towers Associates had, in compliance with City require- ments, made a full disclosure of all individuals with direct or indirect interests in the developer. Seiberling and Wegman were on that list. Both members disclaimed any conflict of interest. Chiat added that the Legal Department had determined that the Iowa Urban Renewal Statute does not prohibit members from voting if their interest is less than 5% and where the Committee is only advisory in nature. Based on this judgment, the Legal Department advised that both Wegman and Seiberling were eligible to vote. Haupert encouraged them to consider the possible problems that might arise from them participating in the vote. Seiberling stated emphatically that, before her appointment to this Committee, this issue MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES a Design Review Committee September 17, 1980 Page 4 had been thoroughly aired and at that time she had disavowed any conflict of interest. RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL Summerwill moved that the Committee recommend approval of the preliminary design plan concepts, contingent upon further review and approval by the Commitee and City Council of all architectural sepcifics or any changes in the design plans. Sinek seconded. The motion carried with Alexander and LaFore voting nay and Haupert abstaining. OTHER BUSINESS Minutes of July 9, 1980 were approved as circulated. The Adaptive Use and Preservation Symposium scheduled for October 30 and 31, 1980, was discussed. Sandy Eskin, symposium coordinator, presented an overview of the symposium and a possible special meeting for the Downtown Association which the Design Review Committee could sponsor. She said that Michael Nichols from Shlaes and Company, who was the real estate advisor for'the National Trust for Historic Preservation and had been the market finance analyst for the three Main Street projects, would be available to speak to the Downtown Association. Members agreed that this was a good opportunity to act on many of the ideas that the Committee felt were important. The meeting was set for 5:00 p.m, Thursday, October 30, at Old Brick. Wine and cheese will be served. Members agreed to invite the Chamber of Commerce members as well as the Downtown Association. A subcommittee will meet Wednesday, September 24, 1980 at 1:00 p.m. to discuss how to contact building owners and merchants. Meeting adjourned. Prepared by: Andrea Tyler Minute Taker MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i I , Design Review Committee September 17, 1980 Page 4 had been thoroughly aired and at that time she had disavowed any conflict of interest. RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL Summerwill moved that the Committee recommend approval of the preliminary design plan concepts, contingent upon further review and approval by the Commitee and City Council of all architectural sepcifics or any changes in the design plans. Sinek seconded. The motion carried with Alexander and LaFore voting nay and Haupert abstaining. OTHER BUSINESS Minutes of July 9, 1980 were approved as circulated. The Adaptive Use and Preservation Symposium scheduled for October 30 and 31, 1980, was discussed. Sandy Eskin, symposium coordinator, presented an overview of the symposium and a possible special meeting for the Downtown Association which the Design Review Committee could sponsor. She said that Michael Nichols from Shlaes and Company, who was the real estate advisor for'the National Trust for Historic Preservation and had been the market finance analyst for the three Main Street projects, would be available to speak to the Downtown Association. Members agreed that this was a good opportunity to act on many of the ideas that the Committee felt were important. The meeting was set for 5:00 p.m, Thursday, October 30, at Old Brick. Wine and cheese will be served. Members agreed to invite the Chamber of Commerce members as well as the Downtown Association. A subcommittee will meet Wednesday, September 24, 1980 at 1:00 p.m. to discuss how to contact building owners and merchants. Meeting adjourned. Prepared by: Andrea Tyler Minute Taker MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i at i1 n MINUTES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE OCTOBER 8, 1980 ENGINEERING CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Alexander, Lilly, Seiberling, Lafore, Sinek, Wockenfuss, Sumnerwill MEMBERS ABSENT: Wegman, Haupert STAFF PRESENT: Tyler, Hauer, Chiat RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL 1. The Committee recommends that City Council approve of the landscaping plan presented by Old Capitol Center Partners for the Old Capitol Center as presented. 2. The Committee recommends that the City Council approve the signage plan presented by Old Capitol Center Partners for Old Capitol Center, with the following exceptions: a) That the proposed relocation of the theater reader board from the interior Washington Street entrance to the exterior corner of Washington and Clinton Streets be deleted. b) That the colors in the Osco Drug sign be changed and that Council disapprove signage until the sign reads in white letters as the other signs. SUMIMRY OF DISCUSSION Don Scatena, Wilfreda Hieronymous, and Jack Klaus of Old Capitol Center Partners, and Larry Sovern and Bernie Wright of Nesper Advertising were introduced. Hieronymous explained the landscaping design. She stated that four planters would be located on Clinton Street, across the sidewalk from the City plantings. Each planter will be 29 feet by 14 feet. She explained that the planters would contain ground cover, such as Winter Creeper, which would remain green all year round, plus changing seasonal flowers, various bushes, and purple leafed plum,trees on the end planters. She noted that the plantings were selected for color, height, and ability to stand shade. Hieronymous emphasized that she conceived of the plantings as constantly being changed and im- proved. Seiberling noted that many of the purple leafed plums had not done well previously and that an alternative might be considered. Seiberling added that she was particularly pleased that annual flowers were being planted. Hieronymous added that the landscaping would be contracted out with a firm and that Old Capitol Center Partners would remain responsible for maintenance. per...—._.. ._�...�.��_......... _. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES 8 MICROFILMED BY , DORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i! - r r i DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE OCTOBER 8, 1980 page 2 Don Scatena presented the signage plan. He explained that signage was part of each tenant's lease. There will be five types of signs: 1) Signs for the "anchor" businesses which are J.C. Penney, Osco Drug, and Younkers. These establishments will have exterior signs, all approximately five feet high., J.C. Penney will have signs on Clinton and Capitol Streets with white, front-lighted letters. Younkers will have signs on Washington and Capitol with bronze, back-lighted lettering. Osco Drug will have a sign on Clinton Street which will be back-lighted and use the same design as on their present sign including orange coloring. C 2) The Old Capitol Center logo will be a blue arch with brown bars underneath and white lettering saying Old Capitol i Center. There will be three front-lighted signs, one over each entrance. 3) A controlled sign band , each section-of which will be 29.feet long and 3� feet deep, will identify the tenants inside the Center. The location of the particular sign will bear no relation to the actual location of the establishment inside the shopping center. The signs will have no logos. Each will;be composed of uniform white, back-lighted letters on a dark brown, opaque background. All the signs will be on a master switch which will turn them all off and on at the same time. 4) The theaters' reader board sign is currently planned for the interior.wall at the Washington Street entrance. However, Old Capitol Center Partners are encouraging the theater to place " their advertisement in the sign band. 5) Identification and control signs will be placed on the Capitol Street side by the loading docks. These will be small ,and not 5 lighted. E: Seiberlirg pointed out that colors in signs tend to be very trendy and recommended that the blue in the Old Capitol Center logo be reconsidered. Scatena responded that the Center was being sold as a fashion center and the developers could not afford to have I' washed out, unattractive signs and therefore would be sensitive to the color. Wockenfuss questioned the reason for moving the theater sign. He stated that a large reader board would clutter the corner. Scatena assured him the OCCP would have control over the signs and insure that they were kept in good order. He added that moving the sign \ would eliminate one sign. c i � i MICROFILMED BY , DORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES i! i DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE OCTOBER 8, 1980 page 3 YSeveral members commented on the Osco sign. Scatena stated that the developer had little control over the anchor signs. Osco Drug was the first lease signed and one of their lease terns was to retain their standard sign, including the orange color. Representatives of OCCP explained that the window lights would y5 probably be turned off half an hour after the center closes. anchor businesses may turn off their lights at scretion; The their own di q however, Penney's has agreed to turn off their sign when the other signs are turned off and Osco and Younkers will probably also agree to this. OCCP re-emphasized that signs are leased to the tenants SO OCCP will keep control. Nesper will be in charge of maintenance. The guests left at this point and members discussed the landscaping i and signage plans. Generally they approved of the plans. ' i Lafore moved and Alexander seconded that the Committee recommends that the City Council approve of the landscaping plan presented,by Old Capitol Center Partners for the Old Capitol Center as presented. The motion carried unanimously. Alexander moved and Lafore seconded that the Committee recommends that City Council approve the signage plan presented by Old Capitol Center Partners for Old Capitol Center, with the following exceptions: a) That the, proposed relocation of the theater reader board from the interior Washington Street entrance to the exterior corner of Washington and Clinton Streets be deleted. b) That the colors in the Osco Drug sign be changed and that Council disapprove signage until the sign reads in white letters as the other signs. Motion carried unanimously. OTHER BUSINESS Lilly questioned Chiat about the downtown bus stops when the Center opens. Chiat indicated that most of the buses would be stopping on Washington Street, Lilly asked whether there were plans to remove the bus shelter at the corner of Washington and Clinton upon completion of the shelter by the Center. Chiat said he thought removal was planned. The Committee recommended that the bus shelter on the corner of Washington and Clinton Streets be removed upon completion of.the new bus shelter in the bus island on Washington Street. Lilly reminded the members that the Committee will meet next Wednesday MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAS v� CEDAR RAPIDS • DES 1401NES DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE OCTOBER 8, 1980 page 4 to work on the Design Workshop. Members will be asked to personally contact members of the Downtown Association. They will also be contacted by letter. Lilly stated that the letters should go out by Friday, October 10. Meeting adjourned. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Prepared by t f n. ,1r�n Andrea Tyler Minute taker I I a2" !'1 MINUTES IOWA CI1Y PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING SEPTEMBER 25, 1980 STORYHOUR ROOM 4:00 P.M. MEMBERS PRESENT: Bartley, Cavitt, Gritsch, Ostedgaard, Richerson, Zastrow. Hyman, Immermann, MEMBERS ABSENT: Bezanson, STAFF PRESENT: Eggers, Westgate, McGuire. OTHERS PRESENT: FRIENDS liaison Charles Drum, Gladys Benz. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION The meeting was convened at 4:05 P.M. by President Ostedgaard. 'The following minutes were approved: Owner/Contractor meeting of August 27, 1980; Regular meeting of August 28, 1980; and the Building Committee #2 meeting of September 3, 1980. Zastrow/Gritsch. Disbursements for September 1 and 15, 1980, were approved. Zastrow/Gritsch. The Library Materials Expenditure Report for September 15, 1980 was reviewed. Following the review of the New Building Gift Fund of September 20, 1980, the Director announced receipt of an anonymous $500.00 donation from the Minneapolis Foundation which the Board then decided should be deposited in the New Building Gifts & Bequests fund. The list of change order items dated September 23, 1980 was reviewed.. The Director reported on the following: -Of the $26,580 pledged so far to the new building fund 60% has come from local organizations and 20% each from individuals and founda- tions. -The Iowa City School Board was very interested in the report of the conference on cooperation attended by Iowa City's school/public library team. They requested follow-up reports on the progress of cooperative efforts planned by the joint team. -The library is now cablecasting about 20 hours a week. We are currently experimenting with a mini -computer to use as a character generator. -Circulation in July and August was 11% above the same period a year ago. Reserves are down well over 50% since the library began charging for reserves on July 1. ( over) MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES /9a,3 Board of Trustees September 25, 1980 Page 2 -The library is currently operating with 4's F.T.E. less staff than a year ago, 2 plus from the cuts made during the FY81 budget cycle and 2', in work/study positions we are unable to fill. The prospect of getting additional work/study applicants is very slight. The drop in staff plus 11% increase in circulation, the beginning of cable and ongoing special activities associated with automation and the new building puts the library in a very tight staffing pattern. -The carpet bids will be opened this Thursday, October 16, at 2:00 P.M. The furniture bids will be opened on Tuesday, October 28, 2:00 P.M. -Two board members, Carolyn Cavitt and Ed Zastrow, will be attending the Iowa Library Association's annual conference in Sioux City, October 1-3. There was no report from the President. Cavitt reported for Building Committee #1 (see Minutes of Owner/Contractor meeting of September 24, 1980): She noted that the new schedule calls for completion by February 1, 1981 which must be adhered to if the carpet and furniture schedules are to be met. The Committee enjoyed their tour of the new building and were satisfied with the progress to date. A decision regarding the height of the ceiling in the auditorium is pending until a response is available from the Library's AV consultant. The Board noted that it does not feel it should absorb costs of the redesignsince this is clearly an error. The following bid opening dates were announced: carpet - October 15; 1980, 2:00 p.m.; furnishings - October 28, 1980, 2:00 p.m. Both will be in the director's office. Building Committee N2's Chairperson Richerson reported that the first signage presentation for the Committee is scheduled for September 30, 1980, at 2 P.M. Another will be scheduled later so the FRIENDS can see the graphics work planned for the new building, toward which they have pledged $10,000. Zastrow reported that members of Building Committee q3 (private funds) have been very active lately and the library received some gratifying responses. He asked that a meeting of the whole Committee be set for the week of October 6 to plan the solicitation of businesses. Following a lengthy discussion of contract fees for library services in FY1982 and their long-term implications, the Board unanimously approved a resolution to change the method, of formula computation to allow for an increased administrative surcharge which includes the pro -rated actual amount of debt service. Zastrow/Richerson. The Board felt that this new method agrees with the City Council's policy of making all contract fees equitable with costs paid by Iowa City residents. The Board began a preliminary review of budget goals for FY1982 which must be turned in to the City by early November. ,(Note: Actual date is now 10 - MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Board of Trustees September 25, 1980 Page 3 21-80.) The Director recommended that the long-term planning process scheduled to begin this fiscal year be postponed until FY1982, due to the overwhelming workload of the staff and the fact that everyone's perspective (staff, Board and public) will probably change after a few months in the new building. Informally, the following FY82 goals were discussed: 1) Enough resources to adequately maintain the new buidling, 2) obtain enough funds for temporary hours to replace work/study positions and 3) a materials budget which allows for growth in the size of the collection. The Board authorized the President to sign a contract for custom made furniture for new building with bidder recommended by architect. Richerson/Cavitt. Bids were opened September 16. Apparent low bidder was Forest City Millworks at $16,600. This was $13,400 under the estimate of $30,000. This contract covers index and microfilm tables, picture book and record bins. The following dates were set for the Regular meetings in October 23, November 20 and December 18. November and December dates are substituted for the regular fourth Thursday meeting day. By vote of a majority of the members, regular meetings will again be held at 4:00 P.M. instead of 7:00 P. M. The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 P.M. Susan McGuire, Recorder MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAE) CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES X92 1 i Board of Trustees September 25, 1980 Page 3 21-80.) The Director recommended that the long-term planning process scheduled to begin this fiscal year be postponed until FY1982, due to the overwhelming workload of the staff and the fact that everyone's perspective (staff, Board and public) will probably change after a few months in the new building. Informally, the following FY82 goals were discussed: 1) Enough resources to adequately maintain the new buidling, 2) obtain enough funds for temporary hours to replace work/study positions and 3) a materials budget which allows for growth in the size of the collection. The Board authorized the President to sign a contract for custom made furniture for new building with bidder recommended by architect. Richerson/Cavitt. Bids were opened September 16. Apparent low bidder was Forest City Millworks at $16,600. This was $13,400 under the estimate of $30,000. This contract covers index and microfilm tables, picture book and record bins. The following dates were set for the Regular meetings in October 23, November 20 and December 18. November and December dates are substituted for the regular fourth Thursday meeting day. By vote of a majority of the members, regular meetings will again be held at 4:00 P.M. instead of 7:00 P. M. The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 P.M. Susan McGuire, Recorder MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAE) CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES X92 { i.. 3 dr