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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980-07-15 Bd Comm minutesR I n MINUTES IOWA CITY HOUSING APPEALS BOARD MAY 8, 1980 -- 8:07 A.M. t MEMBERS PRESENT: Diane Klaus, Goldene Haendel, Mark Koenig r MEMBERS ABSENT: Leonard VanderZee, Rachel Dennis, Kathleen Graf, Carol Karstens i 1 STAFF PRESENT: Terry Steinbach, Kelley Vezina, Angela Ryan r n ACTIONS OF THE BOARD q Chairperson Klaus called the meeting to order. i Chairperson Klaus asked for corrections or additions to the minutes of the April 10, 1980 meeting. None. Minutes approved unanimously. BOARD TO C 624 S. CLINTONONSIDER THE CASE OF MR MARION NEELY - Chairperson Klaus swore in Kelley Vezina, who would testify, Mr. Neely stated that he was representing the owner, Mr. Dean Oakes, but that he would not be testifying in this case. Mr. Oakes was not in attendance. Steinbach stated that the appeal had been properly filed and as per the written appeal, it was his understanding that Items #l, #2, and #4 were the only areas being appealed. Mr. Neely responded that the owner would correct #4 and that items #1 and #2 were the only citations being appealed. Kelley Vezina asked Mr. Neely whether there was a factual dispute in this case regarding the lack of required light switches or lack of adequate ventilation. Mr. Neely responded that there was no factual dispute to his knowledge. It was moved by Haendel, seconded by Koenig, that Item #1 be deferred until the next meeting of the Housing Appeals Board and that an analysis be done by an electrician to determine the feasibility of compliance. This analysis is to be presented at the July 10, 1980 meeting of the Housing Appeals Board. Further, that Item #2 be upheld. Motion carried unanimously. Mr. Neely stated that on the notice of violation dated February 15, 1980, at the end was located a violation concerning lack of adequate natural light in the basement apartment bedroom and livingroom. He asked for further clarification on this violation. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES G71 MINUTES HOUSING APPEALS BOARD MAY 8, 1980 PAGE 2 Steinbach stated that this violation was noted after the appeal rights as it had been cited on an earlier notice of violation, had been appealed, and had been upheld as a violation by the Appeals Board on March 8, 1979. Discussion followed concerning this violation and it was agreed that the City would send a copy of the basement schematic along with a letter stating the alternative methods for correction of the problem to Mr. Oakes in order that the violation may be corrected. This appeared to be the clarification requested by Mr. Neely. 8:35 A.M.-8:55 A. M. Board recessed. BOARD i0 CONSIDER THE CASE OF MR. BRUCE BURKE - 111 S. GOVERNOR Mr. Burke not in attendance. Steinbach stated that a return receipt had not been received from the mailing of the notice to Mr. Burke; however, on April 29, 1980, personal contact was made with Mr. Burke in order to not only determine his mailing address, but to verbally notify him of the meeting time and place. The department secretary also made contact with the Post Office gaining knowledge that the notice of meeting had been brought to the Post Office on April 29 and that two attmts at mae by the Post Office. Steinbach ealsoAstatedOthat carbonand May 5hcopiesad beenhaddbeen sent regular mail to the rooming house operator and the owner of the property. Assistant City Attorney Ryan agreed that proper service to Mr. Burke had been achieved. Steinbach stated that the appeal had been properly filed and Inspector Vezina continued with a detailed explanation of violations H1 through N12. Photos of the property located at 111 S. Governor were entered into the record as was a schematic drawing of the basement of the structure. It was moved by Haendel, seconded by Koenig, that the notice of violation be upheld as written. Motion carried unanimously. Appeals by Lorna Mathes and John Penick, which had been scheduled for this date, were rescheduled for July 10, 1980. Special requests had been made and approval granted by chairperson. Adjournment, 9:15 A.M. Prepared by: - �6-'• Approved by: MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS DES MOINES MINUTES IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION JUNE 23, 1980 CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Costantino; Marcus; McCartt; McGuire; Penny; Yates. MEMBERS ABSENT: Reyes (excused); Kuhn ( excused); Portman (unexcused). STAFF PRESENT: Helling; Mejia; Scholten. GUESTS: Michael Knox (D.I.); Cathy Carlyle (KXIC). i RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: None. RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY MANAGER AND STAFF: Sophie is to monitor who has access to and reviews the complaint files of the Commission. Commission to send letter to Showalter regarding handicapped accessibility in City Park and Willow Creek Park. Commission requests a report from staff advising them of what the plans are to make the Civic Center handicapped accessible. Commission to send letter to City Manager regarding reclassification of department support staff. Sophie is requested to group all items requiring a legal opinion together on the agenda. Staff is requested to send a copy of isreview the Guidelinesfo the hto "Sexual Harassment uirtpos" to Commissioners. Legal ssible inclusion in the local ordinance. Sophie is to prepare the Annual Report and submit it for the Commission. Sophie is to determine the advisability of continued membership in IAOHRA. SUMMARY OF RELEVANT DISCUSSION: 1. The meeting was called to order at 7:35 by Chairperson, Linda McGuire. 2. The following items should have been listed under Recommendations to City Manager and Staff in the minutes of May 28, 1980: (a) Commission to send a letter to City Attorney Hayek requesting that serious consideration be given to applicants with a focus on constitutional and civil rights in filling the vacant Assistant City Attorney position; (b) Marcus to contact Dennis Showalter on an informal basis regarding accessibility to the handicapped path at Willow Creek and having at least one shelter in City Park made handicapped accessible; (c) Commission is still awaiting a legal opinion regarding ordinance confidentiality; (d) Commission to send a ia?,. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Minutes Iowa City Human Rights Commission June 23, 1980 Page 2 letter to the City Manager requesting that the Human Rights Commission be represented by at least two members in the selection process for the director of Human Relations. McGuire is to inquire as to when and how the process will happen. Costantino moved and Penny seconded that the minutes be approved as corrected. Motion carried unanimously. 3. Complaints. E/R, 12-22-7810. Costantino reported that the conciliation process was delayed by the respondent due to problems with the Payment of backpay. She advised Commissioners to remember that backpay should be paid less payroll deductions and plus interest. The company also wanted to seal the records rather than purge them because of EEO reports. It was decided that this type of information regarding the conciliation process would be beneficial to Commissioners and an open discussion on this matter is to be held in the future. E/S, 5-2-7905. The Investigative Report is in Word Processing for typing in final form. E/R, 9-18-7909. Returned from Legal and given to the Team. E/R & No, 12-4-8913. Respondent returned green card. Complainant has not returned green card and Sophie is awaiting return of letter. PA/R& C, 2-11-8001; PA/R&C, 2-12-8002; PA/R&C, 2-13-8003; PA/R&C, 2-22-8004; PA/R&C, 2-22-8005. Conciliation Team to include McGuire and Costantino. 4. Survey questionnaire to complainants and respondents. A common complaint seemed to be that the process took too long. The complainants in no probable cause cases often felt they didn't get a fair hearing. The concern of the respondents was that they felt they had no rights - they had to hire less qualified people. It was noted that from the small number of questionnaires studied it was difficult to draw accurate conclusions. 5. Proposed checklists for complainants and respondents. Some Commissioners felt that the outline form was not as useful as the graph on the brochure. Further discussion was tabled unt11 next month's meeting. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Minutes Iowa City Human Rights Commission June 23, 1ga0 Page 3 6. Informal complaints. Discussion took place regarding the concern of selective enforcement of the ordinance. The main concern is that there is consistency in handling informal complaints. Regarding the method ilit handling such complaints, Commissioners felt i Y was needed depending upon the situation. Commissioners felt a personal visit was a better way to introduce a complaint than a formal letter. Commissioners will report i monthly meetings so that a record is kept of who has been notified. 7. Ordinance confidentiality. Hayek's letter indicated that the CityManager has the authority to review the files of the Iowa City Commission when necessary. Other sHuman Rights taff persons will be allowed access to the en , It was sugested anyone other thanlthew Investigatoryor clerical st aff to ksaatia file it be so noted. Commissioners were concerned that the files not be seen by people who should not have access to them. Sophie is to monitor where the files are going and who has access to them. 8• Handicapped accessibility in public areas. Marcus reported that the Englert is in the process of being made accessible. The other theatres are not being made accessible at this time because the movies will be rotated to the Englert. 9• Handicapped accessibility in City Park. Marcus reported that shelter M1 in upper City handicapped accessible. (Since the meeting Marcus was Park ;s that shelters M12 and #13 advised are also accessible, as is one restroom). Regarding accessibility to the handicapped path in Willow Creek, Showalter will be requested to look Into the Possibility of making one parking space available for unloading and building an access path. It was suggested that the Commission send a letter to Showalter acknowledging him for the accessible shelters in City Parki advising him that the Commission is awaiting an accessibility path to the shelter and path at Willow Creek. Commissioners discussed sending a letter to handicapped organizations regarding the parks but decided to wait until the work was completed. 10. Accessibility in the Civic Center was discussed and Helling reported that because only the lobby is accessible, the policy is that the staff will go to the lobby to conduct business with handicapped individuals. The Commission requested that the staff report as to what the plans are to make the Civic Center handicapped accessible. la-* MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Minutes Iowa City Human Rights Commission June 23, 1980 Page 4 11. Employment application discussion was tabled. 12. Screening process for Human Relations Director. Mori Costantino was appointed as the Commission's representative on the screening committee. 13. Reclassification of Human Relations Department support staff. Costantino recommended that a letter be sent to the City Manager recommending that the reclassification of the support staff is a fair employment policy and should be done expediently. The Commission wants to be notified of City Council discussion of the reclassification of the support staff. 14. Affirmative Action Program. McGuire appointed Marcus, McCartt and Yates as Commission representatives on the Task Force. Commissioners will act in an advisory capacity and as policy makers. 15. Newsletter. Commissioners suggested Sophie review the minutes for items for the newsletter. They also suggested CCN Labor Law Review and Supreme Court case decisions as sources. Items suggested for next month's newsletter include Commissioners as public speakers, handicapped accessibility at City Park, and handicapped accessibility at the Englert. It was suggested that readers might be asked to respond regarding what they would like to see in the newsletter. 16. Vacant Assistant City Attorney position. John Hayek's response to Commissioners' letter regarding the vacant Assistant City Attorney position was read. Yates did not agree with him and felt that he should look for someone with experience in civil rights law. 17. Legal staff support. McGuire questioned the need for an attorney to be present for the entire monthly meeting of the Commission. Both Commissioners and Scholten felt that it was only necessary for Legal to be there for items requiring a legal opinion. The agenda could be arranged, as much as possible, grouping all legal items together. The attorney would remain in the building so that if an opinion is needed he/she would be readily available. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Minutes Iowa City Human Rights Commission June 23, 1980 Page 5 18. Sexual Harassment Guidelines. An article appearing in the Des Moines Register regarding sexual harassment was discussed. Commissioners requested a copy of the Guidelines to determine if a response from the Commission was appropriate. Legal was requested to review the Guidelines to see if they should be included in the local ordinance. - 19. By-laws Revision Committee. Costantino to replace Marcus on the Committee. Report tabled until next meeting. -- -- - ---- 20. Grant Application. Helling reported that he fust learned that the grant proposal was not accepted because it appeared to be oriented toward problem solving. Costantino suggested sending the grant to Pat Gilroy for evaluation and suggestions regarding other agencies to which the grant could be submitted. The possibility of a one day workshop as an alternative was mentioned. 21. Education Subcommittee. a. Bus Posters. Ready to be distributed. b. Brochure. Commissioners took brochures to distribute at Student Legal Services, First National Bank, P.A.T., and Campus Ministries. i C. Commissioner topics for speaking engagements: Yates - Busing, Black history, prejudice and racism, i interracial marriage. Costantino - History of Human Rights Ordinance. McCartt - Employment. Kuhn - Housing. Penny - Racism and prejudice, consumer credit laws, some employment laws. McGuire - Working woman, sexual harassment, sex discrimin- ation. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA6 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Minutes Iowa City Human Rights Commission June 23, 1980 Page 6 d. New business orientation. The need to make new businesses aware of the ordinance was discussed. The problem involved is how to identify new businesses. The possibility of having a workshop in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce was discussed but no action was taken and it was tabled. e. Community awareness survey. The percentages pertaining to community knowledge of the Human .Rights Commission was discussed. Commisioners felt housing was a problem area because testers were not available; possibly the NAACP could help in this area. Costantino suggested that Sophie look up all cases filed in the past three years and give statistics on probable cause and no probable cause findings by area. This project will possibly be given to an intern in the Fall after the departmental reorganization is complete. 22. Annual Report. Commissioners felt Sophie should do the report, consulting with McGuire as necessary. Commissioners felt three goals should be: 1) competent and good staff firmed up, direction and strength of the department achieved through staffing; 2) money in the budget for public hearing if necessary; 3) educational program to be completed. It was suggested that probable cause, no probable cause, and conciliation details be noted in the report so this will be an instructive document. Melling noted that the report is generally kept brief so this may not be appropriate. 23. Staff Report. Logging of the Analyst's time was noted and will be discussed next month. 24. IAOHRA. The Human Rights Commission joined this organization about nine years ago. At that time it offered in-depth training sessions for Commissioners. If these services are still available this organization would be a possible resource for training. Sophie is to make a determination regarding the available services and membership. 25. Next Commissicn meeting: July 28+ 1980; 7:30 p.m.; City Manager's Conference Room. 26. McCartt moved and Penny seconded that the meeting adjourn at 10:07 p.m. Passed unanimously. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LA9 CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES J.- � MINUTES IOWA CITY SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION JUNE 5, 1980 3:00 P.M. CITY MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Carlton, Kattchee, Scott, Summerwill, Williams. MEMBERS ABSENT: Ambrisco. STAFF PRESENT: Berlin, Benz, Meisel GUESTS PRESENT: None. Chairperson Carlton called the meeting to order, and indicated the report of the May meeting would be accepted as mailed. Remodeling Report B. Meisel reported that over half of the demolition of the interior of the Senior Center has been completed, and the remaining demolition work should be finished in about one week. The electrical work has also begun, while work on the Washington Street drop-off will start soon. The mezzanine should be in place by mid-July, and the projected completion date for the project is July, 1981. Summerwill asked what responsibility the architect has for site visits and inspection. Meisel responded that the architect will file weekly reports with her, and that she will accompany the architect and/or make her own site visits at her discretion. She has already made one visit. The policy for site visits has been reviewed and clarified with.Burger, the general contractor. Older Americans' Da Meisel and Benz reported on the Older Americans' fair which was held May 23 at the Iowa City Recreation Center. The fair was completely planned, organized and directed by members of the Council of Elders with technical assistance from the Senior Center staff. Over 200 elderly citizens attended. In addition to the displays, demonstrations and program of entertainment, service organizations and agencies took advantage of the event to display and distribute program information which is of particular interest to the elderly. The fair also included the election of eight individuals to the Council of Elders for two-year terms. Those elected are: Leo and Kay Cain, Kathryn O'Brien, Bernice Holub, Clark "Doc" Mighell, Jeannette Moore, Gwen Pudgil, and Ruth Muir. Senior Center Name and Logo Input was requested regarding the name and a logo for the Senior Center. At various times, the outline of the old Post Office has been used as a ia�3 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Senior Centel1-11,mmission June 5, 1980 Page 2 logo. Scott stated that the name could recognize the Center's origin, Williams asked how soon a name is needed. Meisel responded that the architect's sign needs the name of the Center, and that we will need to refer to the name on an ongoing basis. Williams stated that we might want to wait until the grand opening and hold a name contest. She felt it was important to involve as many people as possible in this activity in order to focus attention on the Senior Center and encourage participation by the elderly. The design of the logo could symbolize what a Senior Center promotes, such as Friendship, activities, services, etc. Publicity regarding a name contest could begin in September. The consensus of further discussion was that more interest in giving gifts to the Senior Center will be generated when the Center opens. Summerwill noted that selection of a logo, name, etc. should be a publicity effort whereby the public will begin to identify with the Senior Center. As people begin to associate and participate in the Senior Center, they will keep it in mind when it comes to gift -giving. Kattchee stated that consideration should not be given to soliciting funds through fund raising, but rather to make sure that the mechanism by which gifts can be accepted is in place. I Meisel indicated that the staff will work on plans for a fall public relations campaign. Operational Handbook Benz distributed a proposed outline of the operational handbook. Because the handbook will identify specific operational policies and details of programs and services that will be provided, it will call for a I considerable amount of work and input. It was recommended by staff that a work committee comprised of staff, two or three Commission members, and one or two members of Council of Elders be formed. Work sessions would focus on specific sections of the handbook, and Commission members could volunteer to work on the section which was of particular interest to them. The staff would provide background information and technical support related to each section. Staff would also be responsible for assuring the consistency and continuity of the document. Williams stated that participation by members of the Council of Elders on the work committee was important since it would provide an opportunity for input relative to operational decisions. Scott noted that input which represented groups of elderly was needed, not individual opinions. Summerwill stated he wanted the staff to draft the material, and then the work group could review and comment. seconded by Summerwill It was moved by Williams and representatives of the Counthat a work group comprised of staff, l cil of Elders and members of the Senior Center Commission begin drafting an operational handbook following the outline that was submitted, Unanimously approved. Scott and Carlton will be available to work on the administration and pers of July. onnel section at the end Due to the Fourth of July holiday, the next Senior Center Commission meeting will be held July 10 at 3:00 P.M. MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R�LAB CEDAR RAPIDS •DES I.101NES Senior Cente —ommission ^. June 5, 1980 Page 3 There is a vacancy on the Senior Center Commission due to the resignation of Thea Sando. The City Council will appoint a new member on June 16. According to the Commission's by-laws, officers should be elected at the annual meeting. Williams moved and Scott seconded a motion to consider September 4 as the date of the annual meeting for election purposes. Unanimously approved. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. Prepared by �- Lori Benz, Pr ram Specialist MICROFILMED BY DORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES �a73 8 i J 1 I i 11 Senior Cente —ommission ^. June 5, 1980 Page 3 There is a vacancy on the Senior Center Commission due to the resignation of Thea Sando. The City Council will appoint a new member on June 16. According to the Commission's by-laws, officers should be elected at the annual meeting. Williams moved and Scott seconded a motion to consider September 4 as the date of the annual meeting for election purposes. Unanimously approved. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. Prepared by �- Lori Benz, Pr ram Specialist MICROFILMED BY DORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES �a73 8 i J MINUTES I0WA CITY PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION MAY 16, 1980 CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Vetter, Jakobsen, Ogesen, Kammermeyer, Blum, Lehman, I MEMBERS ABSENT: LUNOQUIST STAFF PRESENT: Boothroy RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY COUNCIL: i 1. 5-8005. The preliminary plat of the subdivision at 1st Avenue an Rochester be denied approval until such time as a satisfactory plan for having sewerage to the subdivision is presented and other de- ficiencies are addressed. 2. 5-8004. The Commission has considered Richard Ziock's request to waive the LSRD regulations in a proposed expansion of an apartment complex at 207 Myrtle from 29 to 30 units and found such a waiver is not consistent with proper planning and law and therefore re- commends denial of this request. 3. V-8002. That the alley running east and west in Block 2 of Cook, Sargent, and Downey's Addition be vacated and disposed of to ad- jacent property owners, HyVee Foods and Chariton Storage, Inc. 4. That a sewer line be constructed to the Johnson County Home which is only sufficient in capacity to serve that portion of the drainage area within the city limits of Iowa City. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Jakobsen brought the meeting to order. Minutes of the April 17, 1980 meeting were approved. Public discussion commenced. Discussion of a preliminary plat of First and Rochester Addition, located north of Rochester Avenue and east of First Avenue extended; 45 -day limitation period : 5/22/80, 60 -day limitation period: 6/6/80. A memo from Frank Farmer pointed out that the subdivision plat provided no plan for sewerage. Adequate sewerage would require extension of the trunk sewer approximately 2000 feet. The past polir.v of the City was to allow extension of an 8 inch line and later the trunk with the City paying the difference out of capital improvement funds. However, since there are no funds allocated in the present budget for this, and because there are also eleven other deficiencies with no revisions submitted, the Commission recommended denial. Discussion of preliminary LSRD plan of Rochester Court Apartments, located at 207 Myrtle Avenue; limitation period waived. MICROFILMED DY JORM MICR�LAB 11111 RAPIDS • DES MOINES W4 i PLANNING AND ZONING May 15, 1980 page 2 Dick Ziock presented his arguments for waiving compliance with certain aspects of the LSRD plan so that his apartment complex could be expanded from 29 units to 30 units. He argued that the present complex complied with the code and that no purpose would be served by completing the paper work of a topographical map, mapping sewer lines, etc. He felt that the wording of the ordinance indicated it was not necessaryly..to be applied in all cases and was asking the Commission recommend that the City Council look into waiving the requirements of the ordinance. Commission members expressed their concern that complexes were purposely limited to 29 units by the builders in order to avoid compliance with the ordinance and then later more and more units might be added one or two at a time. They felt that individual waivers undercut the intent of the law and would set a damaging precedent. They also questioned the Commission's legal authority to waive the ordinance without the petitioner showing hardship. Discussion of the request by Hy -Vee Foods, Inc and Chariton Storage Company to vacate the alley (running east and west ) in Block 2 of Cook, Sargent, and Downey's Addition. Boothroy reported that the City Assessor had discerned that the City held the right -a -way of the alley. Usual action is to vacate the alley and dispose to the nearest property owners who are Hy -Vee Foods and Chariton Storage, Inc. who filed the petition. Discussion of the appropriate size of sanitation sewer to serve the County Home and related issues. A memo from Chuck Schnadeke was submitted indicating 2 alternative sewerage systems, one to accommodate 570 acres along 518, the second one for 80 acres. Discussion arose about city government's right to limit growth in particular areas. Members questioned whether there were any other reasons for turning down a plan other than lack of sewerage if the proposed development was non-contiguous. Various court cases were brought up which seemed to indicate that a city could not absolutely contain growth by refusing to build sewer and then refusing permits because there was no sewer. However, cities did have some control over de -annexing and deciding where growth would be encouraged. Generally, the Commission felt opposed to encouraging a great deal of growth along 518 and so decided to provide sewerage only to the drainage area within the City Limits rather than the entire 570 acres. MICROFILMED aY JORM MIC R�LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES hI01NES IWO r� PLANNING. AND ZONING May 15, 1980 page 3 Discussion of building Foster Road. Members raised a number of questions concerning a May 1, 1980 memo from Schmeiser to the Council. Item H5, which indicated that PPD staff felt no need for Foster Road as a secondary arterial because Interstate 80 fulfills that need. This drew strong criticism from the members who stated that studies show people in general just do not use Interstate systems as part of the regular street systems. Specifically members felt that the majority would not use I-80 as a path between eastern Iowa City and the ACT area,nor people north of Iowa City entering at Prairie du Chien, nor people on Dubuque wishing to get to the new Hy -Vee area. Feeling was that Kimball Road, which now has an excess of 1000 cars daily, Church , and Brown are used as through streets instead of the Interstate. They expressed a desire to see a traffic study on this done. Item H5 was also criticized because it assumed 1st Avenue will be extended and this has not been approved. The $44,000 figure projected in the memo was questioned. Members asked how the data was substantiated since no street plan has been presented. Boothroy answered that a March 18, 1980 memo contained charts estimating footage. Members were puzzled about why the people in the neighborhood have resisted Foster Road while other neighborhoods have accepted oversized streets. There was some feeling that the residents did not understand what was being proposed. The purpose of the road is to keep traffic from being forced into existing neighborhoods. The traffic is there and will continue to be there. The Commission wants to plan for it. They felt that the Staff report emphasized condemning houses while in reality the Commission is quite willing to accept an offset in order to avoid condemnation. Concern about the Council using a semantical change , calling Foster Road a collector rather than a secondary arterial to placate citizen concern while still planning development was expressed. One reason for this is that all secondary arterials appear on the comprehensive map but not all collector streets. They felt this mislabeling would cause confusion. Discussion ended with the decision to draw up a memo to the Council. Prepared by: ':1A� Andrea Tyler Minute Taker Approved by: . d neJab ksen C airperson WV MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR�,LAB CEDAR RAPIDS DES MOINES MINUTES PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION JUNE 19, 1980 CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS MEMBERS PRESENT: Vetter, Jakobsen, Kammermeyer, Horton, Blum MEMBERS ABSENT: Ogesen, Lehman STAFF PRESENT: Boothroy, Salazar, Seydel, Tyler RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE CITY COUNCIL: 1. V-8003. The Commission recommends vacation of the Pickard Street right-of-way between Friendly and Highland Avenues with the con- dition that the easement for the sewer be maintained by the public unless subsequent owners pay for moving the sewer. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION Jakobsen called the meeting to order. The new Commission member, Loren Horton was introduced. PUBLIC DISCUSSION Blum reported on the Airport Commission meeting. He stated that repre- sentatives from a company interested in erecting an alcbhol distillery for making fuel alcohol on airport land spoke to the Airport Commission. The Mayor and the Airport Commission felt there were many hurdles to the proposed use. One important aspect is that this kind of construction could only take place inan M2 Zone and this area is not zoned M2, neither is there an I2 Zone overlay there. Blum said he was unsure whether or not the entire P and Z Commission should schedule a discussion of viable activities for that area. He noted that two Airport Commissioners had been appointed to work with P and Z and the City Council on looking into just what activates should be permitted. Jakobsen pointed out that the Airport Commission was supposed to send a list of items they were considering to P and Z. Blum responded that a bit of a Catch-22 situation was operating with the Airport Com- mission wanting to know what P and Z was planning before they made any plans themselves and P and Z wanting to know what the Airport Commission is planning before making any decisions. He said that the Airport Commission had looked at the Overlay Zone* which Schmeiser sent showing I1 and C1 overlays in the area. They have not taken any action and P and Z may want to schedule a discussion with them. Jakob - sen stated that she preferred a subcommittee discuss the Overlay with the Airport Commission rather than the full P and Z Commission. Blum stated that he would be going to Kansas City on June 23rd as a Planning and Zoning representative to a meeting with the Federal Aviation Commission. The meeting's content will be land use, building, and a number of other items. Jakobsen asked if travel funds were available stating that she felt it was appropriate use of P and Z travel funds. She added that she felt it was very important to keep *It was later determined that Sehr had drawn the overlay zone. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES 117 y Planning and Zoning Commission June 19, 1980 page 2 the lines of communication open between the two Commissions. Kammenneyer asked about the informal meeting scheduled for June 23rd. Thq agenda will concern reviewing the proposed Zoning Ordinance. The sign ordinance.and legal parts are the only items still pending. Minutes of the June 5, 1980 meeting were approved. Discussion of the vacation of the Pickard Street right-of-way between Friendly and Highland Avenues; no limitation period. Salazar, who wrote the report, and Boothroy presented information on the vacation showing where the property in question is located. Salazar stated that the right-of-way consisted of two potential lots 60 feet in width, with the Friendly Avenue lot having a depth of 125 feet and the Highland Avenue lot a depth of 139.3 feet. Engineering and Traffic have indicated that the right-of-way will not be developed for traffic. Two proposals for use of the land were presented; one to sell to the adjacent property owners who are presently maintaining the lots, the second to allow the building of low income, single family dwellings. Seydel presented information on using the lot as a building site for low income housing. He pointed out that the sewers might have to be re -directed and this would raise the value of the property. He stated that there were encroachments on the northeast corner - a rock wall, flower garden, shrubs. Plans are such that these would remain. It would be possible to place a four bedroom house on one of the lots. He said that the sewer which runs through the center of the lot was difficult to locate and appears to hook up with the VenKirk house. Max Packard of 1203 Friendship was present and stated that he and other neighbors are willing to buy the lots and keep them as green space for the neighborhood. He pointed out that children in the neighborhood use the area as a play field. He pointed out that the nearest playground is at Mark Twain School. Children must cross Highland Avenue, which is a busy street , in order to reach the school. Seydel added that Council had indicated that the adjoining neighbors could buy the lots and offered the parcel for $4000.00. But if they did not wish to buy both lots, the south lot on which the sewer could be rerouted for only $2,300 could accomodate a four-bedroom house. He said a Mr. Gross had written a letter indicating he would buy the north lot with other neighbors. Blum raised the question of maintaining an easement for pedestrian traffic. He stated that if houses went in, he was not so concerned as they would have access, but if no houses went in, he wanted to be sure the public would be able to continue to have some right-of-way through the property. He went on to point out that sidewalks on Cotton - 127V MICROFIL7RL JORM MCEDAR RAPIDS Planning and Zoning Commission June 19,1980 page 3 wood and Highland lined up with the parcel and that a sidewalk could be put in which would run through the center of the land. Seydel stated that 150 feet to the west is Ridge Street which could be used as access. Boothroy questioned whether or not the Commission wanted to encourage pedestrian crossing in the middle of the block. Kammermeyer stated that if the land was purchased by the neighbors as a playground, it would not be desirable to place a sidewalk through the center. Blum agreed that it might not be practical to have two easements, one for sewer, another for sidewalks on a 60 foot lot, however he still expressed concern for future access. Jakobsen stated that the lot was just not wide enough for two easements. Blum moved that the Commission recommend the vacation of the Pickard Street right-of-way and as a condition that the easement for the sewer be maintained by the public unless the subsequent owners pay for moving the sewer and that public easement for access from Friendly to Highland be maintained unless housing is built on the lot. Kamnermeyer seconded. Mr. Packard was allowed to speak. He stated that he was strongly Opposed to a sidewalk running through the center of the area as the neighborhood people use the land as a baseball and soccer field. Jakobsen replied that they were not necessarily recommending building a sidewalk, just retaining an easement. i Kamnermeyer proposed an amendment to strike the section of the motion concerning maintaining public right-of-way so that the motion would be to vacate the Pickard Street right-of-way maintaining the utility easement over the sewer. i Horton seconded. Blum stated the fact that the public now travels over the lot, which Seydel confirmed, prompted him to want to maintain the public's right to travel on that land. He said that what normally happens after land is acquired, is that it becomes part of the owner's yard. He pointed out that several years in the future, the land may not remain with the same owners and that new owners may try to block travel on the land. He said he was not at this time suggesting sidewalks, Just retention of pedestrian right-of-way, Vetter stated that it was not practical to have two easements on a lot that size. The amendment was voted on with 4 ayes and one nay by Blum. The motion passed unanimously. l a7V MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Planning and Zoning Commission June 19, 1980 page 4 Kammermeyer presented a summary of the proposals and progress made by the Melrose Corridor Committee. He stated that the Staff recommended that if Melrose Court was reopened, the street be widened and repaved to make it into a collector type street. He pointed out that the news media presented the story as if the Melrose Corridor Committee voted to reopen Melrose Court, in fact they have not. The Committee had been requested to make recommendations to Planning and Zoning and the Council ahead of their final recommendations because Council waftts to act on reopening Melrose Court. Therefore, the Committee made recommendations on Melrose Court without a final plan. Vetter interjected that the Committee did just what Planning and Zoning had refused to do and that she strongly objected in the last Melrose Corridor meeting. Kammermeyer listed the Committee's recommendations: - 1)That Melrose Court not be widened. 2)That it be a residential street with traffic limits of 1000 to 1500 cars daily, 3)That sidewalks on the west side be widened to 4 feet at the City's expense. Vetter pointed out that this included redoing some driveways and she had voted against this recommendation because the cost was unknown. Kammermeyer rejoined that the residents had been assessed within the past two years and that the Committee felt the City should pay for whatever improvemnts were needed. i Blum expressed surprise at the Committee's recommendation to pay for private improvements. 4)The "Greenwood Bias" which is the concept of bending the intersection at Myrtle, Greenwood and Melrose Court so that traffic can flow from Greenwood to Melrose Court but not from Myrtle to Melrose Court. This will allow local traffic access to Melrose Court while disallowing by-pass traffic from Riverside Drive or the University Hospital area. Kammermeyer pointed out that Engineering had raised questions about stopping traffic at the crest of the hill on Myrtle and whether it is possible to stop traffic from turning onto Melrose Court from Myrtle. He stated that the Committee had asked for Staff assistance in designing the intersection. 5)Lowering the speed limit to 15 mph. He stated that legally the City cannot lower the limitand that the Committee is asking Council to \ approach the State Legislature on the issue. Ivg MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Planning and Zoning Commission June 19, 1980 page 5 6)Rebanking the curve to the inner radius of the curve. 7)Placing a 4 -way stop at the intersection of Melrose Court and Brookland Park Drive. 8)The Committee's final motion was to spate that they would review the recommendations for Melrose Court after they made final re- commendation on the overall traffic patterns. Jakobsen asked if what was reported in the newspapers, that the Committee had decided to recommend the traffic circle concept, was false. Kammermeyer answered that the Committee has not yet decided. Blum stated that some of the proposals would be more easily effected than others. Kammermeyer stated that the Committee is recommending that they all be done before Melrose Court is reopened. Vetter asked what had happened to the one-way street concept for Melrose Court. Kammermeyer said that the idea had been discussed at a neightbbrhood meeting and thoroughly rejected. Blum asked if there were any cost estimates on the sidewalk construction. Kammermeyer said no, Engineer- i ing has been extremely busy and will not be able to make the estimates until September or October. Perhaps the Committee will recommend con- cepts and leave the final working out of the plans to Planning and Zoning and the City Council. Blum cautioned that the Comnittee not make recommendations that are too costly or that can not practically be implemented. He expressed concern that the Council might, in that case, reopen Melrose Court without making any improvements. He said that he saw definite possibilities i in redirecting traffic and putting in the 4 -way stop. He suggested that the Committee consider phasing of their recommendations so that at least some of them would be acted on before reopening. Vetter and Kammermeyer both said that phasing was a good suggestion. Blum moved that the Commission authorize the Chairperson to send a letter to Dave Lundquist expressing their appreciation of the work he has done with the Commission and the fine contributions he made. The Committee approved of the suggestion unanimously. Jakobsen adjourned the meeting. Prepared by , ,, q „_, Andrea Tyler Minu a lake Approved by �.. Jan Jakobs n Cha rperson 1;7f MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+/LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES QQ MINUTES COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY NEEDS JULY 2, 1980 RECREATION CENTER, ROOM A MEMBERS PRESENT: Hall, Jones, Barker, Bonney, Draper, Pecina, VanderZee MEMBERS ABSENT: Haldeman, McCormick, Johnson, Montgomery i STAFF PRESENT: Milkman, Hencin, Laverty, Vezina, Chiat, Tyler, Keller i GUESTS: Wilfreda Hieronymus, Bud Sueppel, Vicki Gilpin, Tom Filer, Bob Sierk I RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: The Committee recommends that the City Council grant $165,000 from CDBG funds for the undergrounding of the utilities in the downtown area. SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION: Chairman Hall Hall brought the meeting to order. Members expressed their j appreciation to Horace Amidon, whose term has expired, for his dedicated work with the Committee. By consensus the Committee agreed that a letter of thanks should be sent to Mr. Amidon. Roosevelt Montgomery, the new member replacing Amidon, was unable to attend the meeting. 1i The minutes of the June 4, 1980 meeting were approved as read. i Margaret Bonney was elected the new Vice -Chairperson, replacing Amidon. After she received the majority of the votes, Draper moved and Barker seconded that Bonney be declared the unanimous choice. The motion passed unanimously. i REQUEST FOR FUNDS BY DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS: Wilfreda Hieronymus, Bud Sueppel, Vicki Gilpin and Tom Filer representing the Downtown Merchants, introduced themselves. Hencin introduced the discussion by stating that at last month's meeting the Committee had discussed the possible funding with CDBG funds of the undergrounding of utilities in the downtown urban renewal area. He pointed out that City Council passed an ordinance two years ago that all downtown utilities be placed underground. Recently the Council notified Iowa - Illinois instructing them to begin action on the undergrounding. The merchants have requested relief from City Council as the estimated cost will be at least $118,000. At last month's meeting the Committee requested more information on the issue, specifically requesting representatives from the Chamber of Commerce or the Downtown Association to present their case. MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOVIES I XV f i I Committee on Commw y Needs July 2, 1960 Page 2 Hieronymus made an introductory statement for the group pointing out that undergrounding the utilities was initially part of the urban renewal plan. She stated that undergrounding the utilities was essentially in the public interest rather than the private merchants' interest and that, like lighting, sidewalk improvements, and repaving streets, it should be paid for with public funds. She stated that she felt it was unfair to single out this one improvement and ask private business people to bear the cost. She added that the businesses would be forced to pass the cost on to their customers in the form of higher prices so that the customers would pay in the long run. She further stated that the project could be done at less cost if the City undertook it with a single bid. Bill Sueppel stated that the small businesses would be the most hurt. He pointed out that he does not own the building his business is located in and that his landlord in Burlington does not care particularly about undergrounding. Most buildings have a net -net lease which requires the tenant to pay for improvements. He added that he was in an old building and that City Code stated that any time part of the electrical panel was changed, the entire building had to be rewired. He said that the City had indicated that this part of the ordinance would be waived in this particular circumstance. Pecina questions just what the utility company paid for. Sueppel responded that the company only pays for bring the wiring to the property line. He said that originally under the Urban Renewal plan, the undergrounding was to be paid for with public funds, but now these have been spent. Bonney asked what precedent was being set if the Committee agreed to recommend paying for the undergrounding. She asked what that would mean in the future for apartment owners and residents if the City passed an ordinance mandating undergrounding. Hencin rejoined that the precedent was already there for new buildings as they are all required to place utilities underground. Draper added that a grandfather clause would apply to existing buildings. Bonney asked just what the Committee was being asked to pay for, as Sueppel had mentioned possible need to re -wire the inside of the building. Representatives from the merchants responded that wiring the inside of the buildings was definitely the private owners responsibility. They were only asking for funds to bury the wires and connections and bring them from the property line into the building. Hieronymus stated that this project was definitely in the public's interest. She said that everyone agreed the alleys were ugly and the whole community would benefit by undergrounding. She added that electrical disconnects would be included which would increase safety in case of fire. t Draper pointed out that sidewalks were assessed to private individuals. However, he felt that downtown was an exceptional case. He added that the concept of setting up low interest loans, which had been discussed at the last meeting, was not feasible because it would take almost as much money to set up and administer the loans as to actually make the grant. 1-W,15 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Committee on Commui...y Needs July 2, 1980 Page 3 Milkman asked Chiat how undergrounding was dealt with in the original urban renewal plan. He answered that the plan had outlined undergrounding but no funding had been specified. The Ordinance passed in 1978 again mandated undergrounding. Chiat stated that it was his feeling that the implications and costs of undergrounding had not been fully realized when the Ordinance was passed, and that the issue was one of timing. He suggested that the Committee had to decide what shape relief should take, and what needs existed in other areas. He added that the original estimate was $118,000 and that with additional costs the figure may rise to $165,000 (due in part to federal requirements). Hencin specified that the extra cost was $15,000 for an electrical consultant, and the remaining difference resulted from the higher Federal wage standards that must be met when using federal funds. He stated that even if federal funds are not used, costs are likely to be close to $147,500 rather than $118,000. Milkman pointed out that it is uncertain whether the project is even eligible for CDBG funds. She said that CCN needed to decide whether or not to recommend funding and where the funds will come from if they decide to fund. She pointed out that last month the Committee allocated $402,000 in contingency funds for the Ralston Creek project and other items. Draper asked what deadlines the Committee was working under and what other sources of funds the City had. Chiat stated that desired timing indicated that the alleys south of Burlington be taken care of by the end of fall and those north of Burlington be completed in the spring. He mentioned that this meant quick action in getting plans drawn up and bids taken. No other sources of City funds are available. Filer stated that some businesses were not affected, for example Rosheks However, many were very concerned. Bob Sierk, a representative of the Area Development Committee of the Chamber of Commerce, stated that the businesses were concerned about alternative funding for the undergrounding. He stated they had talked to the City Counci and asked for help in easing the burden. Hieronymus added that the City was committed to undergrounding as early as 1973 and all bids included undergrounding. Pecina asked exactly what areas were to be included. Hencin pointed out the 5 block area involved. Hencin pointed out that it was somewhat questionable if HUD would approve the projects although technically it could be placed under the category of removal of slums and blight. He added that CCN had to decide where the money would come from. The most likely source is the projected funds from the sale of the downtown hotel site which would not be converted until November. Since the Council was hoping to have the project begun by fall, funds might have to be transferred from the existing contigency funds. Hencin added that both CCN and Counci were on record as supporting the Ralston Creek Project ia75 MICROFILMED BY JORM MICR+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES Committee on Commw. y Needs July 2, 1980 Page 4 and Council was on record against giving funds to businesses, and that the original fund request was up from $118,000 to $165,000. Members discussed the possibility of providing a part of the funds. Pecina stated that since the undergrounding was mandated by the Council, it wasn't fair to have individual businesses pay for it. VanderZee pointed out that home owners often have to bear mandated costs. Pecina moved that the Committee on Community Nedds recommend that the City grant $165,00 from CDBG funds for the undergrounding of the utilities in the downtown area. Jones seconded. The motion carried 4 to 3 with Bonney, VanderZee and Hall dissenting. GRANTEE PERFORMANCE REPORT Pat Keller, of the Planning and Program Development Department, briefed the Committee on the required Grantee Performance Report (see attachment). He stated that CCN should review the report next month and that public meetings had been set as follows: July 31 Public discussion Old Armory, 7:30 P.M. Aug. 6 CCN review of proposed report Aug. 12 City Council's public hearing He pointed out that CCN was fininishing up the end of the CDBG program and entering the third year of the Small Cities program. REPORTS ON CCN REQUESTS: Milkman reported on the following questions raised at previous meetings: 1. Jim Brachtel, of Traffic Engineering, is on vacation and unable to attend at this meeting in order to discuss the problems raised by the Committee in their last meeting. However, he will plan to be at a future meeting to discuss these suggestions. Already a YIELD sign has been placed at the intersection of Dubuque and Kirkwood. 2. An article on the Ralston Creek project appeared in the Press -Citizen so that the CCN's work is getting some publicity. A sign has been ordered to be placed off Muscatine near the south Ralston Creek dam site. 3. The vacant Planning position has been filled by Andrea Hauer, a past CCN chairperson. SUMMARY OF POSSIBLE FUTURE PROJECTS: Kelley Vezina of the Planning Department, gave a summary of possible target areas and projects that would come under the auspices of the CCN in determining future Community Development needs. He articulated the following eligible types of activities: housing rehabilitation, public MICROFILMED BY DORM MIC R+L A B CEDAR RAPIDS - DES MOINES ba75 0 Committee on Commur —y Needs July 2, 1980 Page 5 improvements such as the storm water drainange project and providing sanitary sewer facilities, recreation facilities, sidewalk and street improvements, and flood control He suggested using as criteria for identifying future neighborhood projects, the number of low and moderate income families, minorities, the need for public improvements, and the information from the housing and utility surveys. On the basis of these aspects plus on site inspection of neighborhoods, he proposed five potential target areas: 1. A five block area on N. Dodge Street 2. A 35 block area, "The North Side Area" 3. An area between Iowa Avenue & Bowery through which Ralston Creek runs 4. An area along Rundell Street which also borders on Ralston Creek 5. The Showers addition Vezina pointed out that the last housing survey was done in 1977 and that dealt exclusively with the outside condition of the houses. Many houses in these areas have had outside improvements but need interior work. Draper emphasized that the Showers Addition was in urgent need of improvement. Committee members discussed the need to set priorities and to look at other possible projects. Milkman suggested that members review the book Neighborhood Identification Handbook to see how other cities had used CDBG un s —throughTeighborhood organizations. MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES PREPARED By CA rnAnyn Andrea Tyler Minute Taker i ass' i Committee on Commur —y Needs July 2, 1980 Page 5 improvements such as the storm water drainange project and providing sanitary sewer facilities, recreation facilities, sidewalk and street improvements, and flood control He suggested using as criteria for identifying future neighborhood projects, the number of low and moderate income families, minorities, the need for public improvements, and the information from the housing and utility surveys. On the basis of these aspects plus on site inspection of neighborhoods, he proposed five potential target areas: 1. A five block area on N. Dodge Street 2. A 35 block area, "The North Side Area" 3. An area between Iowa Avenue & Bowery through which Ralston Creek runs 4. An area along Rundell Street which also borders on Ralston Creek 5. The Showers addition Vezina pointed out that the last housing survey was done in 1977 and that dealt exclusively with the outside condition of the houses. Many houses in these areas have had outside improvements but need interior work. Draper emphasized that the Showers Addition was in urgent need of improvement. Committee members discussed the need to set priorities and to look at other possible projects. Milkman suggested that members review the book Neighborhood Identification Handbook to see how other cities had used CDBG un s —throughTeighborhood organizations. MICROFILMED BY JORM MIC R+LAB CEDAR RAPIDS • DES MOINES PREPARED By CA rnAnyn Andrea Tyler Minute Taker i ass'