HomeMy WebLinkAbout1973-05-01 Bd Comm minutesMINUTES
Iowa City Charter Committee
April 18, 1973
MEMBERS PRESENT:
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Staff Present:
Guests Present:
Meardon, Cain, Baldus, Davidsen, De Counter,
Knight, Corrigan, Ringgenberg
Welt
Rosenstein
Don Frank, 705 20th Avenue, Apt. 3, Coralville;
Elizabeth Ann Shope, 905 N. Gilbert St.
Chairman Meardon called the meeting to order at 4:10 P.M.
Mr. Baldus moved, that the minutes of April 12, 1973; be
approved, as corrected. Mr. Corrigan seconded and the motion
carried unanimously.'
Mr. Baldus moved that the minutes of April 11, 1973, be
approved as written Mrs. Davidsen seconded the motion
and it passed unanimously.
Discussion was held on a letter received from Mrs. Jan Madsen.
(Copy attached)
Mr. Baldus moved that the Charter Committee should include
Draft #2 of the section on Community Service Officer in the
Charter. (Attached). Mr. Corriganseconded the motion and
offered several amendments dealing with the wording of the
section. Mr. Baldus amended the proposal to state that the
Community Service Officer shall be responsible to the City
Council. The amendments were accepted. Mrs. Cain stated
that ombudsmen were generally used in larger cities than
Iowa City. Further, she cited a synopsis of a book,by"Mr.
Walter Gellhorn, distributed earlier by Mr. Rosenstein.
She stated that Mr. Gellhorn, who is a leading proponent of
the ombudsman concept, divided complaints into three categories,
with the most numerous one in municipal government' being when
an administrative action has harmed identified individuals.
Gellhorn states that the responsibility for investigating this
type complaints should be with the supervisory ranks of the
administration and that having an outside critic (ombudsman)
investigating these could have detrimental effects on the
administration. Mrs. Cain further stated that she isnot
convinced of the need of this position in Iowa City, and
that there could be harm done by putting this position in the
Charter. She stated that by forcing the Council to establish
this position, the Charter Committee would not be helping this
concept in any way, and that it would be better to have the
Council do this on their own. She concluded that this proposal
would be taking this idea and making it into something destructive
rather than constructive.
Mr. Ringgenberg stated that Citizens For A Better Iowa City
has been interested in this concept for a long time and have
talked with City officials about the idea. He further stated
that CBIC's Steering Committee had met Tuesday, April 17, 1973,
and voted unanimously that they felt this type position should
not be in, the Charter. In addition, Mr. Ringgenberg stated
that it would be better to have the Council try this on an
experimental basis and that CBIC had'not'yet decided whether
,this position should be under the Council or the City Manager.
Mr. Ringgenberg stated that there are 175 members in CHIC
and about 15 voted on this issue at the Steering Committee
meeting.- The question was called on the Community Service
Officer proposal as amended. The motion was defeated two for
and six against with Meardon and Baldus voting for, and
Davidsen, Knight, Cain, De Counter, Corrigan, and Ringgenberg
voting against.
Mrs. .Cain moved that the Charter Committee include a recommend-
ation for the establishment of a Community. Service Officer in
its 'report to Council. Mr. Corrigan seconded the motion." Mr.
Meardon suggested that before this motion was voted on, the
next step would be to vote on whether to include in the Charter
a;provision `stating the Council may appoint a Community Service
Officer. There was no motion made on this. The question was
called on the motion to include in the report a recommendation
that there should be a Community Service Officer and the motion
was passed five to three with Corrigan, Cain,Davidsen, De Counter,
and Ringgenberg voting for and Baldus, Meardon, and Knight
,voting against.
Mr. Baldus stated that the sub -committee on Council Compensation
recommends that the Charter contain the same provision for
compensation as the City Code, of Iowa. Mr. Baldus stated there
was no useful purpose in increasing Council compensation unless
there is a considerable increase, which would not be done. Mr.
Knight moved that the provision'adopted`from the City Code of
Iowa be in the Charter. Mr. Corrigan seconded and the motion
carried unanimously. Mrs. Cain 'moved that a recommendation be
included in the Committee's report that the City Council
marginally increase their compensation. She stated that this
could make a difference in encouraging students and women to
run. She withdrew the motion until further research could be
done on how much the compensation should be increased.
Discussion next turned to the report by the sub -committee on
the City Council which was included in the Working Draft of
the Charter presented by Mr. Rosenstein.
Mr. Baldus moved that Section 2.06 (a) be amended to state
"He shall be the presiding officer of the Council. He shall
also be its policy spokesman and in that capacity each year
no later than February 28, he shall present to the City a
State of the City Message." Mrs. Davidsen seconded and the
motion carried seven for and one against with Mr. Corrigan
voting against.
0
Mr. Corrigan offered a rewritten version of the duties of
the Mayor which reads: "The Mayor shall be a voting member
of the Council, Ceremonial Head of the City, presiding
officer of the Council, its 'policy spokesman, and shall
present to the City no later than February 28 an annual
State of the City Message. The Mayor may sign, veto, or
take no action on an ordinance, amendment, or resolution
passed by Council in the manner provided by State Law."
Mr. Corrigan moved that this language be adopted and Mr.
De Counter seconded. The motion carried with Ringgenberg,
Corrigan, Knight, Meardon, De Counter, voting for and
Baldus, Cain, and Davidsen voting against.
Mrs. Cain brought up the question of .whether the Charter
Committee wanted to allow Councilmembers nominated by district
to be elected Mayor. She moved that the wording for the
first paragraph of Section 2.06 read, "The Council shall
elect from among its members officers of the City who shall
have the titles of Mayor and Mayor.Pro-tem, each of whom shall
serve at the pleasure of the Council." Mr. De Counter seconded
and the motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Ringgenberg moved that the following wording on the Mayor
Pro -tem be adopted: "The Mayor Pro -tem shall act as Mayor
during the absence or disability of the Mayor. Mrs. Davidsen
seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Baldus moved that the second paragraph of Section 2.07,
General Powers and Duties be stricken. Mr. Ringgenberg seconded
the motion. Mr. Baldus stated that it provided no advantages
for the City, and it could provide a restriction on the City.
The motion carried unanimously.
The Committee decided to have the paragraph of Section 2.07
read as follows: "All powers of the City shall be vested
in the Council except as otherwise provided by law and, this
Charter."
Section 2.08, Appointments, (a) Changed to read "The City
Council shall appoint a City Manager." (b) Changed to
read "The City Council shall appoint the City Clerk and Deputy
City Clerk.
Mr. Meardon stated that the Charter should require that the
City Council shall appoint its own legal advice. He objected
to allowing the Council to provide for the appointment because
it was possible that the Council could delegate the appointment
power to a City Manager. Mr. Meardon stated that he wanted
the Council to have independent legal advice. Mr. Corrigan
stated that allowing the City Council to make the decision as
Iowa City Charter Committee
April 18,;,1973
Page'4
• to who,; appointed the legal counsel would provide the greatest
flexibility. Mr. Baldus stated that it was important to
have the Council appoint its legal counsel so that this
position could be a balance of power. Mr. Ringgenberg stated
that there were two ways of having home rule. One was to
leave something flexible, and the other was to provide for
something in the Charter. Mr. Ringgenberg moved that the
wording be adopted as, "The City Council shall provide for
the method of appointment of the City legal staff." Mrs.
Cain seconded. Mr. Baldus moved that the motion be amended
to read, "The City Council shall appoint the City legal staff."
The motion received no second. Mr. Corrigan moved that the
motion be amended to read as follows ".The City Council shall
appoint its own legal counsel and shall provide for the appoint-
ment of the City legal staff. Mrs. Davidsen seconded and
the motion to amend carried six for and two against with Cain
and Ringgenberg voting against. The Chairman ruled that 11 it
would be unnecessary to vote again.
Section 2.08 (d) dealing with the appointment of Boards, and
Commissions was deferred until the report by the sub -committee
on Boardsand Commissions. Mr. Baldus stated that the sub-
committee should include in its proposal a provision requiring
diverse representation on Boards and Commissions.'
Mrs..Cain moved that Section 2.08 (e) be removed, which provided
that the City Manager make all other appointments. Mr. De Counter
seconded. Mrs. Cain stated that this should be dealt with under
the section on duties of the City Manager. The motion carried
seven to one with Ringgenberg voting against.
Mrs. Davidsen moved the adoption of Section 2.08 (f) which
provides that the City Council shall provide for the method of
compensation of City officials and employees. Mr. Corrigan
seconded and stated that he would like to see a clause covering
non-discrimination and affirmative action in the Charter. Mr.
Knight stated'that.the Charter should not interfere with the
employee'•s right to organize. Mrs. Davidsen withdrew her
motion and the section was deferred for further study. .Mr.
Rosenstein was directed to 'put together some language for a
non-discrimination clause.
The next Charter Committee meeting will be held at 7:30 P.M.,
Tuesday, April 24, at a place to be announced later by Mr.
Rosenstein.
Mr. Meardon reported on his conversation with the City Attorney.
He stated that the Council had asked for further information on
the hiring of Mr. Robert Martineau as the Committee's legal
counsel. Mr. Meardon stated that members of the Council felt
that $40 an hour was not 'a properamountand that the Council
did not want to give the Charter Committee a "blank check."
Mr. Meardon stated that this doesn't mean the Council is denying
the hiring of Mr. Martineau. He further stated that he did not
want, to get into a hassle about legal fees. Mr. Meardon.
concluded that the Charter Committee should approach the
Council directly in writing and defining precisely what
it wants. Mr. Ringgenberg moved that the Charter Committee
request payment of $25 per hour not to exceed $500. Mr.
Corrigan seconded. Mr. Baldus moved that the motion be
amended by striking the hourly rate. Mrs. Cain seconded
the motion and the motion to amend passed five for and
three against with Knight, Cain, De Counter, Meardon, and
Baldus voting for and Ringgenberg, Davidsen, and Corrigan
voting against. The question on the amended motion was
called and it passed six for, one against, and one abstaining
with Cain, Baldus, Meardon, De Counter,.and Knight voting for,
Davidsen voting against, and Ringgenberg abstaining.
The meeting was ajourned at 6:10 P.M.
L
Mr. William Meardon
Chairman, Iowa City Charter Committee
Civic Center
Iowa City, Iowa 52240
Dear Mr. Meardon and Committees
I commend your committee for Its continued and extensive work
on behalf of a proposed form of government to be submitted to
the citizens of Iowa City. '
However I do have some oonce me about district representation.
This, proposal strikes me as an attempt to assure !& favored position
for a group or an effort to assure election of aleounollperson
from, an area supposedly with a special interest or from an area
presently ill -represented under our present system. I currently
see no evidence that certain districts or groupa,of citizens,
whether they be tenants, landlords(,elderly or.studente, have been
left,"out 1n the cold" when it comes to council deliberations
governing our entire city. In fact, one example I could Cite
Is to the contrary -- in that the present council has been moit
cognizant of all of Iowa City In the wide range of citizen input
through, appointed hoards and commissions.
It was reported in an article in The Dally Iowan (April 4, 1973)
that the charter committee felt a combliatlon of at -large and
district representatives is needed to maintain a balance on the
council. I'see ,no evidence of an unbalancedcouncil under the
present method of election!
It appears that the consensus of the committee is for a council
of 7 members. With 25 voting precincts of equal population, I would
judge it a monumental task to align in a practical way these
Into workable districts unless the proposal is for $ districts.
Confusion would reign supreme if voting precincts were divided
In setting up districts for city primary elections. It would
not be an encouragement to the voter who may in the saw fall
vote on Hoard of Education members at large and then be faced
with the fact that his half of the precinct is In a'different
area for city council primaries.
I would also just ask the question -- In your judgment could
one sell the voter on S proposed charter if specifics were at
a minimum, with additions to be made later as experiepce
warrants? I appreciate your consideration of the Is pe I
raised.' Sincerely,
Jen Madsen
Section 30
COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICER
30.01 The City Council shall appoint an officer known as the Community
Service Officer to receive complaints concerning the operation of city
government and shall grant such officer (1) the power to investigate
and to make and publicize findings and recommendations made in response
to complaints and (2) the power to subpoena witnesses, documents, and
other evidence and to administer' oaths.
30.02 The City Council shall authorize reasonable compensation for the
Community Service Officer and provide him with the office facilities
and staff needed to perform his function.
30.03 Any complainant, witness, or any person subject to a complaint
shall have the right to counsel and to present witnesses in his own
behalf in any proceeding conducted by the Community Service Officer.
30.04 The Community Service Officer may not otherwise be employed
by the City during his tenure nor may a person be appointed to this
position until two years after the termination of any employment with
the City as an elected official or otherwise.
Minutes -
Iowa City CATV Committee
April 16, 1973
Members Present: Welsh, Russell, Blum, Cordier, Ehninger, Hubbard,
Prediger.
Members Absent: Eskin, Kril
Guests: W. Scott Mylchreest, 27 N. Currier; Jan Miller, 801 Woodside.
The minutes of April 2 were corrected so that the double
asterisk would read "in some cases, special video cable
might be installed to specific University buildings."
The minutes of April 2 were then approved as amended.
There were three guests present, none of whom cared to address
the Committee with any concerns.or suggestions.,.
The major bulk of the Committee meeting related to,a discus
sion
concerning the data required
by the CableTelevision Information
Center to run model relating to the economic feasibility of
various types of cable television systems in IOwd City. A copy
of the information provided attached to these minutes.
The following is a listing of the types of concerns that were
expressed during this discussion:
1. Importance of low monthly rates so as to increase
greater penetration.
2. Concern about the interpretation of Section 76.63 as it
relates to the Quad Cities stations.
3. Question concerning the number of local studio signal
and as to whether or not this number would in fact represent as
economic burden upon the system.
4. Inquiry as whether or not a dual active trunk in single
feeder with convertor -type system can be fed into,the computer.
'(This question had been raised with the Cable Television Information
Center in the letter that accompanied the data information.)
5. There was considerable discussion as to the cost of origina-
tion equipment. The'general feeling seemed to be that we did want
high standard production and multiple production facilities.
6. The desire to encourage second outlets, feeling that many
of the non -entertainment type of services will be used in direct
proportion to the number of second outlets.
7. The feeling that a municipally owned system should return
to the general fund, an amount equal to the City's revenue that
would be received if the system was owned by a private franchise.
Chairman Welsh reported on the information received from the
following consultants:
A. Foster Associates
B. Malarkey, Taylor, and Associates
C. Metz and Jarvis Associat6sr Inc.
D. MITRE Corporation
E. S. S. Street and Associates, Inc.
F. SILLIMANt MOFFET, and KOWALIKI
G. Dr. Delbert Smith H. Telecon Engineering
The Chairman reported that the MITRE Corporation has been asked
to send a representative to meet with members of the Committee,
representatives of the City administration on either April 23
or 26. Following this conversation, the Committee will decide
whether or not to talk with another consulting firm or not
prior to making a recommendation to the City Council.
The Chairman reported on receiving an inquiry from the Governor's
office concerning the role of the State in Cable TV.The
Chairman will send them some information that has been collected
by our Committee., Suggestion was made that we may wish .to dis
cuss State Legislation at some ,future date and make recommendations
to our City Council.
The Agenda for the meeting of April 23 was set as follows:
1. Discussion as to whether or not we believe that CATV
would be good for Iowa City and whether or not now is the time
for the system to be installed.'
2. Public Access
3. Subscriber' Privacy
4. System Design
The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 P.M.
•
•l. Median family income in market area in dollars Attached N1
:'L. Color set penetration in market area in percent 808
GIS penetration in market area in -percent
4. Annual service charge per year for ten years:
(Year 1) $60.00 (2) $60.00 ; (3) $60.00 (4) 60.00,(5) $60.00
(6) s66_'6o (7) ssn_nn : (8) gFn nn (9) gsn nn(10) $`rn nn S. Number of Homes• in -Mm et -at Start— Attached #2.
6:1 Signais:to:•b& carried on.cable ;
" a.: Numbeir•-of 'network'signals :. 3
b `JNumber of duplicate signals 2
1 r ` 6"�1$ jleai :,to iriCYpretatioa� of:.Section .76.63),
...L"r:;Number'of•independent signals:{..,"
ll:•
da,�Nnmber.of educatioaal signals. `2
%;1•` e ; Number•of Canadian pignals "
f ?`Number' of imported signals ! Z
7 ,Sigtlals _pvailable "over the -air"
1 a> Ntimber•of VHR network signals available off the air
b.. for each VHF signal ac_ tually available measure'the distance froml
(l) the signal transmitter to point on B-Contour2 nearest
center of cable system in miles
lOnly include stations which can be actually received in the market area.
2See "CATV & Station Coverage Atlas with 35 -Mile Zone Maps" for maps
of B -Contours, published by Television Digest, Inc.
(No information locally on Page 2)
Annex A)-
3. Percentage addition to 'penetration for outside factors. (See
Annex A)
II. Capital Expenditure Inputs
A. Head -end (if multiple headends complete U. A.1 & H. A.'2 for each headend)
1. Number of Signals: Breakdown of the Twelve:'
University -3
8; U Government -1
Education --1
b. VHF Public Access -1 _.
Local -L
Weather -Stock -1
e.. Microwave New -1
Library -1
d. Studio 12 Public Safety -1
2. - Additonal unaccounted for costs such as unusually high land
costs. (See Annex.B)
B. Construction Schedule': Percent completed by year. end for 10 years
Year (1) 50 (2) 25 (3) 25 (4) (5)
(7) (6) (8) (9)10)
C. Distribution Costs Less Subscriber Drops:
Note: Complete paragraph 1
In addition, complete paragraph 2 or paragraphs 3 & 4
*Excluding agricultural land -approximately five square miles of
the twenty-two square miles of Iowa City.
J t t f 'Y�iC y!•� f`i u � i '+AI•S i` fYI� Aii f �1 lY .ham., V •f 'Sfl :f'3 }tL`.n !l� ,.(1 �.'9P <lvf
• 1:
a. Stre ile9 in city (linear)
b. Percentage of utilities` underground Attached #4
•
2.
Strand Miles
a. Above Ground
b. In Asphalt
C. In Concrete
d. In Soil
3.
Feeder Miles
a. Above Ground
b. In Asphalt
c. In Concrete
d. In Soil
4.
Trunk Miles i
a. Above Ground
b. In Asphalt
c. In Concrete
d. -In Soil
•
1
Under Ground Conditions 'Attached #5
a. Average depth of Asphalt
b. Average depth of Concrete
c. Average Soil Type Clay-Mixture
d. Is Conduit required for underground conditions YES NO
6.
Wage Rates Attached #6
a. Hourly rate - electrician
•
b. Hourly rate - construction
c. Hourly rate - general labor
I -
7. Cable Design
a. Number of active Trunk Cables
b. Number of inactive Trunk Cables '
c. Diameter of Trunk Cables
d. Number of active Feeder Cables
e. Number of inactive Feeder Cables
f. Diameter of Feeder Cables
B. Feeder Trunk Ratio
B. Unaccounted for change in total distribution cost less subscriber
drops cost (See Annex A)
D. Subscriber Drop Costa
1. Is dual cable switch required
2. Is converter required
E. Cost of Origination Equipment (See Annex A)
$175.000 Hcz thin guffi n o "a Hih-t-voe multipip nrigina ion
studio?) plus one remote color, one mobile black and white,
and twelve porta packs
III. Revenue Inputs
A. Service. Charge - Para I, A, and above
B. Percent of Subscribers with a 2nd outlet (See Annex A)
C. Annual charge for 2nd outlet rnmm; trPP ai yi aPa- gn i -n $1 ? nn
D. Installation Charge $15.00 (1st) $2.50 each additional outlet
E. Percent of Subscribers who reconnect per year (See Annex A)
ane
F. Reconnect charge $10.00 -second free unless moved
IV. Operating Expense Inputs
.A. fnevLase in personnel costs per year (Sea Annex A)
B. Origination Expenses per year (See Annex A)
C. Taxes Attached #7
1. Franchise tax as percent of gross revenues 38
2. Average sales tax on part of capital expenditures 38
3. Average federal tax rate.
D. Signal Importation Costs per year
V. Financing
A. - Average Interest rate on Debt
B. Borrowing Schedule for 10 years
C. Repayment Schedule for 10 years
D. Sales Price in year 10 is
times earnings in year 10 before depreciation, taxes, and interest
less any outstanding debt
E. Target rate of return for invested equity. (After taxes, discounted)
Attached #8
#2 Number of Homes (Occupied dwelling units).
Iowa City
University Heights
sub Total
Coralville
Total
#3 Street Miles (linear)
Iowa City
University.Heights
Sub Total
Coralville
Total
14,766
428
2,106
141
4..6
35
15,194
17,300
145.6
180.6
#4 At Present
Telephone 5% underground
Electric .18
(80% of telephone underground.is in soil.)
Can you give cost factors if cable conforms to present
practice, with all new lines underground and cost of all
cable underground? Estimate about 80% in soil.
#5 Underground Conditions
Full Depth
Asphalt Concrete
9
9
8
7
#6 Wages Rates
Local: (rates at University of Iowa)
Electrician 4.63
Construction 4.63
General Labor 3.28
Chicago Labor Rates:
Electrician 7.95 + .46 + 28
Construction 6.49 + .58
General Labor 5.54 + 40
(a 5.58 increase being considered)
Asphalt
Conc. Surface
5-
5
5
5
5
Rolled Stone
Base
9
9
7
6
Concrete
Major Arterials
101 -
Minor Arterials
9
Industrial
8
Collector
8
Residential
7
Full Depth
Asphalt Concrete
9
9
8
7
#6 Wages Rates
Local: (rates at University of Iowa)
Electrician 4.63
Construction 4.63
General Labor 3.28
Chicago Labor Rates:
Electrician 7.95 + .46 + 28
Construction 6.49 + .58
General Labor 5.54 + 40
(a 5.58 increase being considered)
Asphalt
Conc. Surface
5-
5
5
5
5
Rolled Stone
Base
9
9
7
6
ATTACHMENTS -
Page 2
•
#7 Our local property tax is assessed at 278 of appraised value.
38.073 mills for City use per $1,000 of assessed evaluation.
In relation to municipal ownership -We would have the cable
system pay an amount equal to the above. (out total property
taxis 136.116 mills per $1,000.)
#8 We are not interested in a high rate of return. We are interested
in achieving 1008 penetration, low rates, and maximum service.
Projected 8 increase in Population:
For the three municipalities, an esimated increase
of 13,000 or 248. (Members of committee believe
this staff estimate is-high.j
Bond rating and average interest
Last issue -January, 1972, Water Bonds -General Obligation
48 from 1973-1981 and 4 1/4B from 1982-1984.
City Finance Director indicates that on
G. O. Bonds would probably b's market
e 5 1/2B, netodtoday's
Bonds
could be maximum 7;1/29:
Our bond rating is'A to AA.
In general, the interest rate depends on size of issue,
duration, and ,type of bond.
•
MEMBERS PRESENT: Frimml, Hamer, Litton, Stier, Walker
MEMBERS ABSENT: Duncan, White
CITY STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Letts, Hess, Honohan
Alice Litton made the opening remarks and introduced the
Housing Commission members.
The Housing Commission was established by the City 'Council
to investigate, study, review and analyze the housing needs
and the_meetin9 of such needs within the city, and to report
totheCity Council the results of the investigation. ,The
Tenant -Landlord ordinance which has been .proposed is one of
the _.things referred to us by the City Council.The City Coun-
cil received this proposed ordinance last July
when it was
introduced by Councilman Czarnecki. They requested that copies
be -sent to the Housing Commission and to the Housing Committee
of the Johnson County Regional Planning Commission.
The Housing Commission has met with representatives of PAT,
the Iowa City apartment Association and the Iowa Institute of
Real Estate Managers in which we discuss not only this proposed
piece of legislation but also what has been proposed as model
legislation at.the state level. In addition,, we; have met with
the city attorney to 'review some of the legal aspects that the
city is considering. The City Council, as you may know, has
referred this Tenant -Landlord (T-L)_code to the Bar Association
for their comments on the extent of the city policy to govern
this particular area of tenant -landlord relations.
Our purpose tonight is to get some input from the public
on what they feel some of the problems are or maybe that are', not
presently handled under existing city codes and ordinances. We
are also to get some ideas as to some of the ways this particular
ordinance might or might not handles
problems. Copies of
on request.equest.
the -L ordinance were made available to the public up -
Not wanting to go into detail of the proposed ordinance but
wanting to say that its primary functions are to regulate and
determine legal rights, remedies and obligations of 'persons in-
volved in a rental agreement. It also proposes that tenant -
landlord commission be established to adjudicate complaints and
licensure and that the punishment also be established. The
specific role of the commission would be to administer the reg-
ulatory and other functions in regard to tenant -landlord prob-
lems.
With this brief background the floor is open to the public
to give your points of view.
Philip Leff- legal counsel for the Iowa City Apartment Assoc
I feel the main purpose of this meeting is to answer some
questions.
1. Is the ordinance necessary? According to the Apartment
Association, it is not. The following are reasons why:
a. Pending now in the state legislature is a similar type
of proposed statue. If adopted it would already provide similar
rules covered in the T -L ordinance. It should appear prudent
to hold municipal action until state legislation action is de-
termined. Even if the proposed legislation is not passed at this
session, it would seem wise to analyze its chances for ;success
at the next session.
b. Advantage of a state-wide code will provide uniformity
throughout the state which cannot be achieved in a municipal
code. You must consider the Coralville, University Heights areas
beside the Iowa City area.
c. There are now available remedies in the Distric Courts
for both landlords and tenants, that answer some of the problens
proposed by the code and .some of the remedies which the proposed
code seeks to solve. Many of the landlord -tenant inequities
that exist now, can be solved or at least mitigated by an attempt
between tenant -landlord organization to redraft on a mutually
agreeable basis existing lease forms-and,to'attempt to move the
two factions into closer agreement in many of the greatest prob-
lem areas.
d. The Council must answer whether or not the expense in-
curred by the operation of such a code is justified and can be
afforded. The seven member committee and others established by
the code will be compensated for the time expenditures that
they have. The list of duties required by the members will pro-
vide for substantial time expenditures especially during the
formative year of the ordinance. Also provided is a full time
rent commissioner at a salary to be fixed by the City Council.
Financial feasibility and priority of funds will be considered.
e. The T -L code committee's function is to establish rent
• controls or rent control guidelines. If it is to be accomplished
with any degree of accuracy and fairness, I presumed that it will
require expert advice to the commission so that they can correctly
:'• be considered by tine r---
h ordinance will pro-
f. Implementation and passage of t e
result in a test case being filed in the Distric Court
bably res
by one_orult in
on
t or the other, and the costs of litigation
should be considered by both sides.
2. Is the T -L code in present proposed
for an acceptable
the aspects
ordinance? It is not acceptable in its pe
sent of rent control has no business in local ordinances.
a. The ordinance attempts to do a difficult tasandk
treview.
estab-
lish rent guidelines which needs constant moderating
It also requires a number of people with expertise in establish-
ing the rent guidelines.
s defined in the code, are
b. The duties of the committee a
regulatory„:consutlatory,judiciary, enforcement and the establish-
lies. Some of
ould
seties
nt of rent control
from the commide erreu
and establishedintoothercorganbe
P
zations, so responsibilities are not repetitive.
c. The fine of $5,000 per violation of the proposed ordinance
exceeds statutory, limits that are impsedupon municipalitivehcomto a
mittees.” The amount of the fine is grossly
landlord or tenant and this provision should be reworded.
d. From a linguistic standpoint, the
L codebneedspto be
redrafted and revised. There are at pent
graphs and many undefined terms.
e, The ordinance is too 'strong. In the attempt to esta
blish rights of landlords and tenants, these rights are very much
tenant oriented. The following clauses show a severe economic
hardship imposed upon the landlord: terminate
1). The tenant on a 30 days written notice out of the
may
his fer of
ploymen
10 it lease, situationsdue to nbeyondge or tthe stenant's mcontrol tsuch as, but
those
not limited to�illness,`death or change in marital status.
This particular provision could be rewritten to specifywhich
particular items that are
oftthe leaseof the enainn30sdays tnotice.
would justify
2)• There is the provision that the his rentnt be In allowed
an automatic 10 day grace period to PaY of the month.
no rental payments will be due until ble the 10th day
This doesn't sound like an unreasanmentspdue on the first of the
lord with debts to finance with payments
month, can work unbearable cash flow problems for him.
3)• The proposed ordinance abolished the landlord lien
procedure established by the Iowa Code. while this is not al-
ways an effective tool of the landlord to impound for delinquent rent
I
Where a
• premise.
and one
•
r
-4 •
tenant vacates the property, and removes it from the
It is a tool that the landlord may be able to :use
that he is not anxious to see abolished.
4). The provision allowed the tenant to place into
escrow with the committee the rent that is due whenever the
tenant alleges that the landlord has violated the_code._,This
is regardless of the existence or lack of merit of the allegations.
of the tenant. There is no similar type of an immediate right
or remedy allowed the landlord. A group of tenants may decide
that there is a particular violation of the ordinance and to all
withhold their rent, by placing it in the charge of the committee.
The time period provided in the ordinance, before judication or
reconciliation can be completed, could be a period of several
weeks. During that period of time the entire rental income of
the landlord is withheld again giving him debt service and cash
flow problems.
f. Attempts to protect the tenant which go too far and make
.it unbearable for the landlord.are:
1). If the tenant gives one week's notice to the landlord
that some items need 'repair 'and the landlord does not make the
repair within,that time, the tenant can make the repairs up to
the'amount`of $100-$150. No mitigations are included for the land-
lord who could not secure a repairmen within the one week period,
or a delay in receiving parts to fix the item.
2). In case of storm or fire damage, the tenant is able
to vacate the property and move into temporary quarters even where
there is a partial destruction of the premises. The landlord is
required to pay the costs of moving expenses of the tenant to
and from temporary housing. This is despite the fact that the
fire or storm situation was not the fault of the landlord.
3). Section II, Tenant's Obligations, the tone of the
ordinance is apparent because under this category of tenant's
obligations, the first section spends its time talking about
landlord obligations instead of the tenant's.
4). There are examples of collectable damages or col-
lectable rent questioned by the tenant and no similar type of
punitive arrangements or damages allowed to the landlord.
5). The security deposit must be returned to the tenant
20 days after the termination of the lease. If expenditures are
to be made from the security deposit, the landlord must notify
the tenant within five days of the time the expenditures are made
or the landlord looses his right to apply the security deposit
to the expenditures. The proposed code makes no arrangement for
the landlord where the tenant moves and leaves no forwarding ad-
dress. One of the proposed items of legislation in Des Moines
• deals with the security deposit and the return does correct this
type of procedure by having a mitigative circumstance where the
address of the tenant is unknown and in fact does impose a duty
on the tenant to leave a forwarding address.
We wouldsubmit that the ordinance is not needed, that the
City Council should -wait until the legislation in Des Moines is
determined. I would hope the tenant -landlord organizations would
get together and try to work out their differences. I think there
are some very real complaints that the tenants have, certainly
some of the abuses that have occurred by landlords in Iowa City
and surrounding communities.
Initial steps in attempting to negotiate those commonly
agreed leases, there is no way to force a landlord to use a
particular lease form or a particular `tenant to sign such a
lease. But if a lease becomes commonly acceptable by a major-
ity of landlords and used broadly in a community, it will in
the long way solve some of the problems ,that exist.
Presently there are two basic lease forms in use -
the Bar Association leas e, and one of long standing, prepared
by the Realtors Association.
Lester Bigalk - President, Iowa City Home Builders Assoc.
our chief concern is the effect on the home and apart-
ment building industry the proposed T -L ordinance has. We
have had steady growth of home building and rental unit expan-
sion in the Iowa City area since post W.W.II. The rental
housing is now, approaching the demand of ,the market. To us,
this would seem to create higher competition; higher compet-
ition in terms of structure of rental, what we have to have as
sellers, developers, as to a complex in terms of 'amenities.
The point that we are leading to is that the adverse
legislation can discourage continued growth in terms of homes
and apartment structures, and that the 'decrease in supply of.
the buildings would take away that what now is being offered.
Therefore we would like to go on record as opposing the pro-
posed T -L ordinance.
Les Batterman - Board of Realtors of Iowa City.
The Board of Realtors reaction to the proposed T -L code,
as is stands now,is of serious dissatisfaction. I feel it takes
into consideration the historic and guided relationship between
landlord and tenant.
Recently social pressures and social changes have an increased
consumption of apartments, have produced consumer pressures for
a change in that historic relationship. In a revision of landlord -
tenant laws we feel it, must easily protect the rights of both
1
• the owners and the tenants. The rights given, part of them,
in the basic contracts law should not be advocated for the pur-
pose of creating causes of action which can be used for harass-
ment by either side. Any reform of the owner -tenant laws must
contain safeguards to protect both owner's investment as well
as remedies for tenant's grievances. It must also insure that
the conscientious owner is not penalized for the practices of
the wrong -doer. Owners of rental property are encouraged to
accept the greater responsibility for the needs of their tenants,
and tenants must recognize and accept their legal responsibilities
to maintain and care for the property. Further, we encourage
the discontinuation of rent control laws, the local tenant
ordinances and other owner legislation or acts which inhibit the
right of open contract between parties and that discourage the
construction and/or rehabilitation of rental units necessary to
meet the national housing goal.
As a practical matter, we feel this particular ordinance
would seriously discourage capital investment in rental housing
in the Iowa City area. There have been great strides in pro-
ducing rental housing in Iowa City, since 1952. Those of you
who resided here then, will recall the serious shortage and
extremely critical supply of apartments at that time which was
born during the W.W.II preflight navy days in Iowa City. Since
then,, there has,been a steady increase in the amount of rental
housing units available in Iowa City, to the point that we now
have on today's market an adequate supply of apartments avail-
able. In fact many owners now, are becoming concerned ' about
vacancies in their units. It is our feeling that the forces
what have brought this about are the results of the free interprise
system of.capital in the hopes of making a profit. one of those
warrants of our economic system is the profit which usually comes
from astute management, good public relations and a host of
other factors. Possibly the most important of these factors is
astute management.
We feel that the proposed ordinance would seriously remove
much of the freedom for the management decisions which the owner
must maintain if he is to venture his capital in a rental housing
facility rather than putting it into high-grade bonds.
We view the long term effects of this ordinance as tending
to reduce the supply of rental housing in the area and after all
an adequate supply of housing is what we have been striving for
over the years, and an adequate supply at a price which is reason-
able as the economics of ownership and permit seems to be the
Tong term goal of the residences of Iowa City if we are to
continue to provide for our people in the manner of which they
have become accustomed.
W• hile it would appear this proposed legislation fulfills a
social need of a particular segment of our community, the long
term effects of it by limiting the right of an owner to exercise
his full management decisions which he now enjoys under the Code
We feel the code seriously affects all the members of the
• ' 7-
community, both long term residences as well as short term
• residences. In short, we feel this particular ordinance as
it stands, is such a heavily favored tenant oriented approach
to improving the tenant -landlord relationship in this community
it is not worthy of consideration as an ordinance.
Jim Ryan - Coordinator, Protective Association for Tenants
I always find these meetings kind of interesting because.
all these organizations seem to come up, show evidence and appear.
We have been located at the University for almost three years,
and I have yet to be contacted, we have never received a phone
call or never received a letter. In fact I might say respectfully,
that the Iowa City Apartment Association that I have tried to,
contact almost repeatedly for the past year, doesn't have a phone
number that I'know of, the only thing I have is a box number.
I'd.like to say to their representative, that this is a public
meeting; that's why I like to bring it up so there are some wit-
nesses for these particular kinds of things. PAT. not only has -one
model lease, it has two model leases. For neither model lease, have
we ever been asked by the Iowa City Apartment Assoc., or the
Realtor Assoc.,
or the Home Builders, neither have they asked
us for a copy to review nor have they ever called us to resolve
any particular legal or personal problems that might :exist
between ,landlords and tenants. I say these things because there
are probably many people at these meetings that this is the
first time that they have ever been involved in landlord -tenant
situations. We are involved in it every day, so I felt it only
fair, that they get a little bit different idea than what might
have been prepared. ,But also I would like to make public that
PAT, through myself and any other members of our staff,: would
warmly adsorb any other kind of meeting between landlords and
tenants to discuss any sort of landlord -tenant problems at any
time about any issues. We do not have any fear of hiding our
feelings anywhere, Any of our abilities as an agency at any ,time
are available to the -landlord. our pnumber and address is
hone
well known. So we just like to say that we would Welcome any of
these organizations that appeared here tonight to come and dis-
cuss with us at any time.
It is kind of interesting though, that the Landlord Assoc.,
and others are criticizing an ordinance that we proposed. I
wish they would propose an ordinance so I could spend time to
study it and I could appear at a public meeting and I could
analyze it. I'm not even a lawyer, but it would sure be nice
to get that feeling. It seems kind of funny to be shot down be-
cause we are proposing legislation'. We are proposing legislation
in order to resolve a community problem not to put landlords on
their 'knees, get even with people or any other cliches that might
• be thrown around.
The issue before the community, as PAT is concerned, is the
city's responsibility toward a striving portion of this town, the.
•
tenant. The tenants have generally been ignored or forgotten
in this community for many many years and for many many reasons.
Renters have been sorely overlooked by all types of -publications
in America'. Anyone who examinesthe literature on the relation-
ship between landlord and the tenant can see the lack in
quantity and the tone of the information. The purpose of the
proposed ordinance is to rectify these past official omissions
and to move forcefully, through legislation to heal some open
wounds in the perennial battle between landlords and tenants.
The ordinance as it presently reads, offers landlords and ten-
ants a chance to develop sanities and open avenues of communi-
cation in their dealings, rather than acrimony, fear and distrust.
By establishing a city agency to be responsible for tenant
landlord relations, both parties in a lease arrangement will
have equal and full access to a recognized local authority
with a resolution of their mutual problems.
It is always interesting in ,some of these meetings, people
talk about too much control at federal and state levels and then
when the shoe 'is"`on`the other foot, the .argument_is turned around
and they want to pass the legislation back to the local control.
By. designing a uniformally equitable lease to be signed for all
will establish status
loopholes in Iowa City, the ordinance
e to all parties to a lease'. By instal -
and permit full knowledg
ling a`single city ;agency with authority to receive, investigate
and adjudicate complaints for both landlordsandtenants the,
proposed ordinance will provide a ready and close at hand agency
rather than having to resort to the complex,
to resolve problems,
nd often lengthy court cases as presently
expensive for tenants, a
the situation. Courts are not being overlooked or short changed
the ordinance with either by
thedecisi
its
onsgofor athenL-Tt
vision.
vision. ,:.Anyone unhappy
agency, authorized by the >proposed ordinance, can still take
full advantage of both the Iowa and U.S. court systems.
I's like to address my remarks to mor sobering and far
more important facts, and that is because my understanding the
City Council is presently, trying to find some method of resolv-
ing whether the particular ordinance, introduced by Mr. Czarnecki
and supported by PAT, can be passed in any way shape or form
by the city. So I feel that until that particular issue is re-
solved, it doesn't do much good to knit -pick an ordinance or
go through an ordinance that has not been given a detailed analysis
or study by any reputable group, or organization or authority.
Our organization reviewed the material, as requested by Mr.
Czarnecki and several people 'went over it to the best of our
ability, because we received it from another agency that presented
it to us as a piece of model legislation and as way to best re-
solve pressing tenant -landlord problems. It is very possible
that the particular proposed' ordinance as it presently reads
will hopefully and in some instances will be altered and in
other areas will be changed dramatically. Be it as it may,
housing statistics in Iowa City, I believe are relevant to the
issue. Over one-half the units in Iowa City are rental units,
The Iowa legislature and Governor Ray along with some
recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions, have virtually abolished
all the past barriers to full, citizenship, to full citizen's
rights; Iowa City is a community with a very large number
of new citizens.As of July l of this year, all 18 year olds
in Iowa will be recognized citizens with all the intended
rights and responsibilities employed by citizenship. By
that I mean, we cannot any longer use the easy but often de-
rogatory terms "they're just students, they're just passing
through"; that is not the opinion of the state legislature.
As voters and tax payers these new citizens, are and will
be making requests for services from the city; and rightfully
so. The "PAT -feels the proposed L -T -ordinance meets one of
their biggest needs, it offers 'a way to resolve one of their
major complaints." Tenants pay heavy taxes in Iowa City. Some
estimated as much as 25C of every rent dollar they pay goes
to taxes, primarily.to,support schools and other forms of
local tax. The Iowa City School District is'subsidized.heavily.
by tenants through their higher than average rents in the
state of Iowa. Iowa City rents generally average 15-258 above
the next highest city, Cedar Rapids and almost double the
average ,for the entire state. Remember, few tenants use Iowa
City schools. It is very doubtful' that Iowa City 'could af-
ford its excellent school system without the large number of
renters„ who.generally do not have children of, school age.
The tenants are not complaining' because they are helping to
subsidize the schools.
Iowa City is what basically called a company -town, a town in
which its activities are overwhelmed, in this instance the
company happens to be the University of Iowa. It is a company -
town in which the company pay almost: no taxes. It is the
reverse of the situation in most company -towns; somebody has
to pay the taxes; to carry the load. The University of Iowa is
the company and as a public agency it operates almost tax
free. This isn't the university's fault,, but someone has to
make up for the lost of revenue. Tenants, PAT feels, are the
ones who make up for the company, paying taxes through high rents.
Tenants are citizens, they vote, they pay taxes. Tenants
have housing needs. one of their major needs is decent stand-
ard housing. As tax paying citizens of this community, they
are asking the community through the Housing Commission and
especially the City Council, to meet their needs in housing and
in the area of tenant -landlord relations. Tenants feel they
have earned the right to vigerous action from the city in hous-
ing. Especially given the recent past history. They want a
T -L ordinance as good an ordinance as is possible for a city in
the state of Iowa to pass.
1
-10-
• This particular ordinance is introduced no where else
in the nation, however a similar one was introduced in Prince
George of County Maryland. Due to five members of the coun-
ty council were found making secret deals with Prince George
County Real Estate Association and as a result, the whole
thing was dropped. This ordinance is unique to Iowashowever,
theroare similar ordinances and city agencies that handle
rent.guidelines and varied sorts of tenant -landlord policies.
I*
Frimml requested a copy of PAT's model leases. Also
asked Ryan to elaborate on some of the problems that determine
the needs of such an ordinance.
1. One problem, Ryan answered, is the average time lived
in Iowa City is 3.4 years at one time, or only nine months of
the year that tenants are in Iowa City. This creates problems
in terms of the extent of the lease, the age of the lease,
whether it lasts for nine months or twelve months.
2. The handling of damage deposits seem to be a problem.
Once the landlord has the money in his pocket or bank, the
tenant feel the burden is on him to get his money back. The
landlord can make almost any kind of claim that the money
belongsto him. As far as we know there is nothing specific
that.he has to do, all it seems is he has to make a claim
that there are damages. The burden is on the tenant.
to get a lawyer, to go to court, to go through the process of
getting his money back. Financially he is having to put up
the money to show that he was in the right. In many instances
this is a problem.
3. There are problems of repairs, there is no way to en-
force a landlord to make necessary repairs, no immediate rem-
edies that we know of.
Walker stated that several items in the proposed ordinance
are covered in the State Code, as informed by the city attorney,
and therefore how would it help to have a legislative committee
on the local level?
Ryan answered: The point is we have a local community
with a large number of renters, that want some kind of solutions.
The local community has a legislative body, City Council, and
they are asking them to pass a particular piece of local legis-
lation to resolve these problems. Also to amend that they
are asking the city to establish the local agency. Under the
present system, you can complain about anything but have to
go to distric court, and hire lawyers. If you do not get sat-
isfaction there you have to pay the cost of appeal on what
might be a minor problem. These kinds of nonjudicial agencies,
before you get to court kind of agency, are to provide admin-
istratively a way to resolve problems. Negotiations, discus-
sions, that was the purpose of setting up the L -T agency.
•
•
-11-
Someone would be on the spot to administer the problem
•
and the seven member board would be the effective decision
making body on this initial board. We would not be able to
do anything locally that is forbidden at the state level,
but I do not see why,just because it is on the State Code
that would then negate putting it on the local level. I
cannot follow that line of reasoning. We can not run off
to Des Moines and ask the Attorney General to resolve a land-
and-lord'or
lord ortenant problem in Iowa City every day.' We can have
a law that permits this kind of thing but I understand you
can put teeth into a state law, or federal law by adopting
something similar at a local level. You are not going against
what is permitted at the state level, you are simply taking
advantage of what is permitted. I understood that that was
the whole thrust of the 'Home Rule Bill, which was to do at
a local level all those things which are not forbidden by
the state 'law. But I don't know specifically what things
might be forbidden in the present ordinance.that has been in-
troduced. There may possibly.be-a-number of items in.there,_
after studies, that will be 'shown to be'directly contrary
to what is.permissible'under the present Iowa law. This is
not `a'do or die situation. zI', believe the whole thrust of
our proposal is to resolve a community problem. It isnot
to 'run around waiving'a particular ordinance up in the air
and saying, "by God you better give us ,this or else". We
have never made that particular decision.
Litton asked if money could be better spent by adding
to the present inspection procedures?
Ryan answered: The people who do the housing inspecting
forIowa City, as far as I'm concerned are really good con-
scientious, concerned perople.' But they are only human. As
far as 'I know there are only a couple of these people, both
highly competent people, but they have 16,000 units in the
city. :You have to a whiz-bang man to get around to 16,000
units,,where many of these units can be as much as 50-75-100
years old. I would imagine crawling around in some of, these
attics and looking around at the wiring in some of 'these; old
homes can really take a long time,in order to make a judgment
or estimates and doing it on a regular basis too. Not like
every five years, but like once a'year, or in rental units,
inspecting once every rental' turnover or once every two years
these units are inspected. A person is not allowed to make
a profit off a piece of housing unless that piece of property
meet all the required codes and continues to meet all the
codes. It is the power and decision of the city's budget
makers to allow the hiring of several more inspectors or what
ever it takes.
This would improve the living conditions of the whole
•
community, because these standards, although they are minimum,
in many instances minimum standards do help the renter in
these divided houses more than anybody else because they have
all these special' provisions. I think the law and; enforcing
the law are two different things.
-12-
�Nancy,Stevens 109 South Clinton, tenant
• With the help of PAT, she is in the process of filing
a suit against a local landlord.
First of all, people have asked is there a need for
this ordinance? Due to my past experience I feel there are
tenants being badly treated by landlords and I'm certain there
are landlords being badly treated by tenants. I would like
to tell you a.story about my last year in Iowa City.
It was August, I assumed the apartment met the code when
I took over. I did have one question when I signed the lease
and that was, what is going to happen to my $200 security
deposit? I was informed that the landlord would spend it
and that I would get it back when I moved out. I got the
feeling that it was my money, 'it would only become the land-
lord's
andlord's if I did damage to the apartment.
I.feel that the 'security deposit should be put in an
...escrow account or in an account where it canearn interest
for the landlord.
.,Not too much later I noticed the.water from the upstairs
..shower flowed into my closet; when the city started putting
modulars up on Clinton Street, my ceiling started falling;
another ceiling that,was suppose to be painted, :never was; and
a variety of other things,occured.all. of which,I was informed
by my landlord, would be taken care of. By December,.it.was
really bad. My roommate and I were huddled in blankets study-
ing, a pan of water in the kitchen sink was frozen, the temp-
erature in the apartment was below freezing. As tenants we
had two courses of action: 1.) say nothing and hope our,
landlord would fix it, motivated by our constant reminders,
which we were doing or, 2.) notify the city housing inspector
who would placard the building and we would have 24 hours
to vacate. That is not very good recourse for a tenant to
have,to take. I.think that the tenants should have the right
'that when they rent an apartment they should not have to take
a Lcity inspector along with them to make sure an apartment is
livable. In my case I should have done this, when my landlord
told me there was a fire escape I assumedhe was telling the
truth. It wasn't until I moved in that I found out he was
lying to me. That there was no way of escaping in case of
a fire.
I have also heard that tenants should not have the right
to put their rents into escrow. I am saying now that tenants
are putting their rents into escrow as an attempt before going
to court, to force landlords to provide minimal standards
of living for their tenants. my roommate and I tried this
course of action, we put our rent into escrow, and the reply
from the landlord was, "alright, you're not going to pay me
then I'm not going to fix anything".
I would say that there is a need for this ordinance,
, 41
•
-13-
•
from a tenant's point of view. I feel that landlords of this
type hurt all landlords in the city, they hurt their reputation.
Michael Pill Iowa City attorney
What I want to see in my own feelings as to what is right
and to what tenants should be able to reasonably expect in
a landlord -tenant relationship is a legal sense which re-
cognizes and deals with twentieth century housing in a primarily
urban America. Landlord -tenant laws do not do this. There
was a reference in one of the earlier speeches to the historical
tenant -landlord relationship. I think one of the most affirm-
ative problems we have is that this relationship stands for
fourteenth or fifteenth centruy England. It recognizes no
responsibilities on the part of the landlord to repair or
maintain rental property, this is brought down to today. It
is reflectedi.n.the law.which I think up until the last three
or four years could be safely said, the landlord -tenant law
is.almost 100,percent landlord lawand is almost still that
way in Iowa. Tenants have virtually no;protection, no rights.
This is reinforced by the two previously mentioned leases, these
two major leases' developed by the Real Estate Association and,
Bar Association. Neither of these leases offer tenants anything
in the way of rights or priviledges in the relationship.. They
are almost entirely landlord oriented and this simply reflects
traditional landlord -tenant laws. I don't think we have seen
much of anywhere, at least in.this statee any.recognition that
a law in,any area is entirely stacked in favor of one party.
It is something,that is incompatible with both the traditional
American values concerning free interprise and with preserving
this system of ours into,the future. We have got to bring this
law of ours into reality.
What I would like to go to are some of the questions that
were raised with Mr. Ryan; he kept pointing out that he wasn't a
lawyer. Since I am and am somewhat more familiar with some of
these points, I will go through them. The question was asked
about other ordinances. Frankly, I would like to disagree that
this ordinance is unique.to Iowa City. Individualized,law has
been developed in.cities and states to govern the tenant
landlord relationship, for example, those found in New York,
New England and California. What this particular ordinance
is before you (pill held up an ordinance), is based on a document
prepared by the American Bar Association in the late 1960's,
called the Model Residential Landlord Tenant Code. This is
Fi'ghly 'inffivld=uazed law in
an attempt to take previously,
this area and to combine it into a comprehensive and uniform
body
dy of law. So this in sense has been updated into a uniform
residential landlord and tenant act that is almost identical
• to the draft you have before you. This has been adopted by
the National Conference of commissioners and Uniform State
laws and sent out by them and recommended for adoption around
the country. I think there is a significant ainount of legal
talent that has made the determination first that we need some
• -14- •
• significant change and that the kinds of changes represented
by this ordinance are what we need on a nation wide basis.
The reason being to establish some balance in the relationship
of landlords and tenants. So that there are rights, duties, -
priviledges and obligations on both sides that are equal.
This raises the question of lease forms. I think it is
quite true that a fair and equitable lease that clearly spells
out what the rights and duties, are of landlords and tenants
and ,what remedies each party has if the other party fails,
to live up to its duties, would do a great deal to solve the
problems. I think the difficulty is with the voluntarynature
of new lease forms. Until this L -T ordinance was prepared,
there was no effort on the ,part of an association to develop
an equitable lease form outside of PAT's attempt to do so.
Finally, it has been my experience by far and away that
the vast majority of landlords and tenants are decent, honest,
hard working, respectable people. Landlords are in business
to provide quality services and to make a reasonable profit -
and 'tenants `,are there to pay their rent and get something
decent in return. What you always have are the "bad apples",
both landlords and tenants Now these are the people who
are not ,going to voluntarily walk into;a fair lease.
There has been the question expressed that state law,
covers.much of.what is in the ordinance. To my knowledge,
they is one Iowa case -September 1972, which in partial; form
-grants tenants a few of the rights provided in this ordinance..
Frankly,,I know of nothing in ';the Iowa Code that offers anything
that is relevant to this ordinance and nothing in the Iowa Code,
outside of the archaic State Housing.Law which has pretty much
been proceeded by the Iowa City Housing Code that deals only
with physical standards that attempt to institute any balance
in the tenant -landlord relationship. Frankly, if Mr. Hess
believes these provisions exist, that he would.present to all
of us a detailed, well written and most important of all, a
well documented brief spelling out chapter and section'that
support his position.
The question.was raised about using resources to improve
the Iowa City Housing Code, I think that'this'is something
that needs to be done in any case. The existing housing in-
spectors are badly over-worked. Ms. Steven's problem even
points out the deficiencies in housing laws that only relate
to physical standards. In Ms'. Steven's case, the only 'thing
the housing inspector could have done, in the fact of;a
landlord's irresponsible, dishonest and illegal conduct, was
to placard the building and 'throw her out. The Iowa City
Housing. Code and the State Housing Law and any law that deals
solely with physical standards establishes no rights and duties
between the parties of landlords and tenants.
To go back to the point that was made by the Real Estate
Association, who talked about the rights and responsibilities
of both the landlords and tenants. one of the biggest reasons
-15-
problems arise is because the law is so ancient, it has not
been codified anywhere as far as the relationship of the
parties used. Landlords and tenants themselves do not know
what the law is. I think this kind of a code offers_a coherent
body where people can go, can read the law and can learn what
their rights and obligations are. I think it offers something
for a decent, honest landlord who gets stuck with a bad tenant.
If a tenant tears 'up a place, instead of being ,up a creek as
they are now, I think they would have a place to go, to collect
for repairs or rent. They would not have to go to a lawyer
and prove the expenses which frequently out-weigh the amount
involved and try to get into the existing measures of the law.
I think this ordinance would help bring tenant-landlord
law from medieval times into modern times by recognizing there
is a package of goods and services being provided and that in
this provision we need to establish a balance. So that the
system coninues to work and both parties are provided with
reasonable protection.
Stier asked if this code was equal and fair to both
parties,tenants and landlords.
Mr. Pill answered: I have not gone through this partic
ular:code. I think.I can say that the Uniform State Laws,
the Commissioners on state law's draft and the American Bar
Association's draft on which I know this to be based are
designed with this specific balance in mind. If in fact
changes have been made that might go too far in favoring one
side, then I think the thing to do is to go back to the original
draft and try to make this one conform more closely to those`
rather than to junk.the whole thing.
Litton asked if Pill thought it should be better to go
ahead and establish a local code or wait until the model
legislation is passed in Des Moines.
Pill answered: The problem has to be realistic,where
do we get the protection from. Whether this bill has been
introduced in the state legislation or not, I don't know. I
know that :to get a bill like this through the legislature
would 'involve lobbying in Des Moines. There is no state wide
tenant movement, there is no state wide equivalent I think
of ,the basic real estate interest. As a practical matter,
tenants are aware of problems on a local basis. I don't
see',where Iowa City adopting an ordinance like this will in
any rate preclude the legislature from acting, it might help
by demonstrating that here is at least one 'forward looking
Iowa ,community that this is something that is needed to deal
with this problem.
Clara Oleson - 115 Fairchild
I would like to ask some new specific questions. From.
1Y
�
• -16-
• What`I have heard this evening, I think we have an economic,
a social and a political problem all wrapped up into one.
So my economic question is on or around the,'landlord. How
many landlords are there in Iowa City? What is their hourly
rate of profit that they make as landlords? How many individuals
derive their sole income as landlords? So basically i am
looking for the statistics on the other side of the PAT statis-
tics.
Secondly; are there any members of the Housing Commission
that are tenants or that are landlords? As I understand it,
this ordinance was first submitted as model legislation in:
July of last year -this is March 1973. What happens in the
meantime, with regard to decisions? I attended the City
Council meeting on another issue, indicated at that time, to
put it mildly, a'lack of receptivity to the entire idea on
the part of the City Council. Also indicated to the Johnson
County Bar Association, and -what the rumor now is instead of
getting information in Iowa City, whether it is valid or not.
But it has come to my attention that'the committee set up by
the 'Johnson County Bar Association, the comments of the..past-.
president ';denotes thisvery well, "we buried that'thing so
deep.it will never get out". I I don't think that is,a;particular-
ly helpful way; to solve.a problem,.and that might not be
an invalid rumor,,I want to clarify that.
I would like to. comment in general about the tenant
position from aseven-year tenant's point of view (her, point
of view). The comment was 'made ,that tenants want tobring
landlords_to,their knees. And if we are going to talk in
that kind of rhetoric I think the tenant's response is that
we; just ,want them off.our backs._1 think one of the things
that impressed me here; this evening; is the fact of the
mitigative aspects of the landlord's presentation. Mr. Leff
started, out by saying, is the ordinance necessary? He gave
his `answer ,and pointed out six reasons why it was not. Is
this particular ordinance'acceptable?, no and then giving
four reasons why not and he indicated why it was unfair to
the landlord and gave eight reasons why not. This does not
seem to me to be a particularly positive kind of response
to <a problem.
The,political question, as pointed out by Mr. Ryan was
the presentation of the number and the goals of tenants as
voters in this city. And I think this is an economic issue for
which Mr. Leff opposes the expense of setting up the com-
mission and setting up a full time rent commissioner. The
fact of setting priorities for the expenditure of money, I
think that is best exemplified by the use of political power.
as the use of the political process.
• As I sat in the corner i said it was an economic rip-off
and it will always be an economic rip-off, it is tied up with
urban renewal and its tied up with not one of the landlords
that indicated what is a reasonable rate of profit. Are we
•
Lyle Miller - Local landlord
I would like to make two points:
1. Any rent guidelines would interfere with normal ec-
onomic portions would be unnatural and not justified. If
there are economic inbalances they might as well corrupt,
"those.
2. The second point is that we have in our own project
Teases that spell out our responsibilities and our tenant's'
responsibilities. We have not experienced the ;problems, that
,
have,been.talked about here tonight.. I think you can use
a proper type of a',lease and not have the types of problems
we are talking about.
Walker.asked Miller to explain the term "unnatural" guide-
lines.
Miller replied: Rent 'guidelines will tendto force rents
that are not supported by economic market, either higher or
lower. Rent guidelines tend toward rent controls and in cities
that have had these there has been much property' that has
been abandoned'or not repaired, have „gone down -hill because
there was not enough income to tie the property up. If you
have an overly high rent market, you will have more building
and the supply will bring the: rent into line.
Bob Crane - President of the Iowa City Apartment Assoc., and
realtor.
See his following notes.
These are serious objections, we think that are reasonable
objections and to ,make a;point that the Landlord Association
of which many of our people are here tonight, along with the
realtors, were not 'asked or invited to provide any input into
this proposal. I can not understand how that would be fair
and equitable, workable without the landlord input.
ppg7q7qq F
Comments on Proposed Land -lord Tenant Code:
Sec. II'Page 2 - Item (B) - Outlaws any written or oral agreement in
existence or to be agreed to in the future.
Sec. V, Page 3 -.Omits university, fraternal, church or civic organiza-
tion, or'cooperative housing structures.
Sec.VI, Page 4 No. 5 Item A'& B' -'covered under minimum housing code.
No. 9 - uncontrollable far-reaching and ambiguous.
Sec.VII, Page 7 - Iowa City :Committee of seven cannot be effective in
'handling; problems, nor -does _ it.set,out.committee duties; the Commissioner
could wield.unruly powers without suspension. Rent controls souTa a en or-
cedby the 'committee;withoutAdentifying rent guidelines. This is a'definite
infringement of free`enterprise where the owner.is,not able to meet costs in
many cases with increased costs that are not met by adjusted rent rates'.'
G. Who pays committee members? Equal>pay for, all?:
H. How will -Commissioner be paid? General reserve, float bond?
I. Committee's power to hold rent -'pending outcome of hearings? How
can monthly mortgage payments and expenses be met under this arrangement?
How long, will said monies be held?
Scc. VIII- Licenses - who .will penalize tenant if he violates the ACT?
ommittee regulates only landlords — each landlord must pursue s tenant
violator by his own legal course and cost.
Sec. IX - No. 2 -,only tenants option to extend term, at old terms; no
a-MIord voice at all. No'rent increases without committee approval.
B. No. 4 — Open door for tenant to cancel any lease in 30 days at his
option.
No. 9 - Provides 10 -day grace period for rent payment; unworkable for
landlords. "
No. 13 - Need only, to disclose management office.
No. 16 -'Interest on deposit is unworkable, minute and creates ex-
cessive cumbersome bookkeeping.
C. There must be 'a notice to quit for unpaid rent, etc.for landlord
protection.
No. 5 - Lein on personal property is the only recourse a landlord
has:against tenant on damages or unpaid rent.
No. 7 - Iowa law does not comply with this 5`,6 limit; with the current
money market - withholding tenant could not pay and make 1% or so.
D. All provided for by Minimum Housing Ordinance.
No. 6 - In many cases, tenant provides hot water.
G. Tenant unions 'could be formed and in fact encouraged by the committee
without due cause or purpose.
Sec. X - Supply possession.- this is a very rare situation and not likely to
occur as alandlord certainly would not offer a property for rent unless he
could 'deliver it.
. B. Landlord is responsible for any theft without proof of loss and lia-
bility. No access by landlord; lease could be terminated because landlord
enters; unreasonable.
C. Tenant could leave in the first week.
•
1. 'rl`1'llil.11avc 101ppn1Labvt•y
i. Withhold one-J•eurl.h of the rent, but ust: all the space
;1. %love elsewhere and charge landlord
WhaL if industry, labor, or unions strike prevent said repairs?
F. Tenant authority to spend $150 without proper control of repairs.
G. Landlord is pre -determined -to be guilty before so proven or, hi$
insurance is allowed to provide coverage.
No. 3 - Pay rentor's moving? - unworkable.
I. No. 1 - Any is a very broad term for detective tenancy
termination of tenant to one week.
Seca XI - Tenant's obligations -
A. ,Io. i (Nay agree) does not obligate tenant
C. What code exists for tenants? k bl
No. l (As the conditions permit) is too broad and unwor a e..
D. No. 1 Vague interpretation
No. 2 No rules or discipline allowed?
E. Landlord must create:a civil suit to collect damages.
Sec. XII
'_-Damages limited to 5%
B. (U) Cause to re -rent at a lesser rate
C. Remedy,- Landlord must sue to get premises.
Item 3 If landlord accepts rent, he cannot terminate.
E. (2) Two days notice is unreasonable
F. ,(2), Claims I'or damages can be appealed by tenant to committee; he
has five clays to bo.ject:; totally unworkable.
G. Maintenance forms - cumbersome and create excessive management load.
I. Landlord has to sue to get rid of holdover tenant.
Sec. XIII - Security deposits held separately with interest -,cumbersome,
expensive (can keep only 1% for handling), return in 20 days- repairs cannot
be made that fast. Landlord must notify ,tenant ,in five days or waiver, right,
to claim.
Sec. XIV _
A, Tenant may sub -lease without consent; totally unworkable
C. Landlord may not know who, of if, sublessee is married, etc. no info
if he waivers such data.
D. If landlord rejects sub -tenant after 10 days - the tenant can
terminate and leave "Reasonable grounds" for rejection of sub -tenant must
be proven by landlord.
Sec. XVI (Commission or Committee)
—U. -Complaint area'- tenant can stop paying rent, but landlord must sue
to get it. Totally' unworkable. Tenant paying rent to committee is out of
reason -who will meet mortgage payments, expenses, etc.? Will committee pay
rent?
F. Commission acts as judge, sets hearing, rules, etc. and authorize
tenant to withhold rent or pay to committee.
4. If damage to tenant - landlord pays all costs
5. No re -dress by landlord at all -may lose"license" in ten days
It. Deposit amount is awarded and landlord loses that protection.
Sec.XVII - Aggrieved party has 30 days to go to court; $5000 penalty per
offense per day is totally absurd, %
.
Free
o ert rave, resident es ey 0 sc,, or
-ls-
•
Kingsley Clarke, Jr. - Iowa City attorney
Would like to correct one thing that Mr. Crane stated
and that was that the Distric Court (reference to lease used
by Crane) made some amendments in the lease, they were minor
they did not subsequently affect the lease, I agree, but prim-
arily the holding in the Distric Court was; that they would
not over turn a lease that people entered into knowledgeably.
They did not comment on, the fair and equitable nature of the
lease.
Alen Wolfe - Iowa City landlord
I think if when you compare the rentals that we have
in this area with those of another area, you cannot have
a clear picture unless that other area contains the large
amount of turnovers as we do here. When we compare our
costs of our rentals through the years and our maintenance
it is alot more money than rental rates provide, because of
the fact that you loose one month's rent in decorating costs
per unit.
Iva liillerman - Coralville landlord
Feels that time will take care of inequities and will
bring them into line. She also feels that legislation
of this type should go to a broader (larger) level to keep
equities. In this situation the laws would have to include
more than one part of.a'three part community, should cover
Iowa City as well as Coralville, and University Heights.
Mrs. Charles Follmer - Iowa City landlord
I'think we do really have a problem and I think that
may be somewhere along the line we have to realize that it
is going to be our job to do something about it. I don't
think that we can wait for the state or someone else to
take care of our problems. But yet, I cautiously consider
this ordinance because of the slant it tends to take toward
the tenant. I think if we do have such an ordinance we
will have to very carefully consider both sides and the
problems involved.
Jack Grady - Iowa City contractor
• I would like to direct my questions to those people from
the city. I think the end result is if you recommend this
Litton wanted to remind the public that the Housing Com-
mission is an advisory commission to the Council. This is
the best way we knew of to provide input for our recommendation..
0
1I
Chairman Stier called the meeting to order and announced that this
would be his last meeting for his term of office.
I. The minutes of`the previous meeting, March 21, 1973, were
approved with a motion from Litton and a second from Hamer.
The motion carried with all in favo
r.
2. Coordinator's Report
a. At this time, there are 209 units under lease. During
the time since March 21, there were 9 applicants for
tenancy. Of these, 2 were former tenants. Eight were
found eligible and l is pending verification of income.
b. Seydel read a letter received from Guy Birch, HUD Area
Director. In essence: the application for Low -Rent
Public Housing that was submitted to Omaha Area Office
normally would have been considered for funding, in F.Y.
1974. Because of the recent moratorium on funding, [IUD
has returned the application to 'us to resubmit at such time
as the "hold" is lifted or some alternative methods have
been developed.
Seydel reported that the application willcontinue to
be updated and in readiness for resubmission when the
moratorium is lifted and/or an alternative method is
established.
Because of the thorough and strict requirements for ap-
plication review by HUD, Seydel is in the process of
requesting Progressive Housing, Inc., for more details and
clarification on their proposal for elderly housing. The
city staff feels it is worth their time to review the new
proposal.
•
C. Letter was read from Duane E. Means, stating his organi-
zation's opposition to the proposed Landlord -Tenant or-
dinance.
out a discrepancy in the overpayment of Authorized op-
erating Reserve (form HUD 52981) to be $45,674.08
instead of the reported $35,859.08 which our records
indicate. Omaha office verifies our records to be cor-
rect at $35,859.08.
e. The F.Y. 1974 operating budget report is being studied
by the Omaha Area Office'. Included in the budget are
auditallowances. The Leased Housing Program is expected
to hire an independent audit agency to perform the audit
for the program. Funds are programed in the F.Y.-1974
budget.
3. Old Business
a. It was the general.concensus of the Commission that some
recommendation should be made to the City Council con-
cerning the proposed Landlord -Tenant, ordinance.
It was''moved°by Frimml and seconded by Hamer that "the
Housing Commission recommend to the City Council that the
proposed Landlord -Tenant' -ordinance, as introduced by council-
man Czarnecki, be rejected as written
Litton made an amendment to preceed the above motion.
"That there is a need fora local` ordinance to govern L -T
relations..." Walker seconded this motion. The motion
on the amendment did not carry. Vote was 4 No and 2 Yes
The original motion by Frimml in final form, "the Housing
Commission recommends to the City Council that ,the proposed
Landlord -Tenant ordinance, as introduced by Councilman
Czarnecki, be rejected as written". This motion passed with
a 6/0 vote.
Litton made a motion which was 'seconded by Walker, stating
"there is a -need to establish city regulation to govern
the use by the landlord and the return of the damage de-
posits to tenants".' It was the consensus of the Commission
to table this motion for discussion at a special session
tentatively set for Thursday, April 12, 1973 at 7:30 p.m.
b. Marc Harding, representing WRO, stated that his organization
still requests a list of the names and addresses of those
persons participating in the Leased Housing Program. He
refused the Commission's offer of mailing the information to
the tenants with enclosed' stamped cards as return.
• Reference was made to a letter delivered to Seydel by Harding
and Washburn. In essence their letter stated that "refusal
to provide us with the desired list is in clear violation of
the Iowa Freedom of Information Act, Chapter 68A of the Iowa
Code". Harding and Washburn have contacted the city attorney
I
When asked what the purpose is of WRO (Welfare Rights
Organization), Harding answered that WRO wants to organ-
ize the tenants in Leased Housing in order to provide them
alternate channels other than within government channels
for relief of their problems.
WRO would wait for the legal opinion of the city attorney
to be resolved before coming before the Housing Commission
again.
4. New Business
a. Jim Ryan, PAT, believed that there were two conflicting
matters. Does the power to allow the release of names
lie with the Housing Commission or the City Council?
He too would wait for a legal opinion concerning Chapter
68A.
When asked what PAT proposes to 'do with the names, if the
organization should obtain them, Ryan answered that PAT +
has been able to attract students in other areas of the
University (recreation, social services depts.),-for or-
ganization to reach -out and work with the tenants._
b. Litton stated that the City Council has plans to establish
priorities for expenditure of revenue sharing funds. She
asked the Commissioners to be thinking of what expenditures
are needed in the area bf housing for Iowa City.
C. Jim Hess, asst. city attorney entered the meeting.
Questions were asked of him regarding the application of
Chapter 68A to the refusal of disclosing ,the names and
addresses of tenants in the Leased Housing Program. He
stated that he.was in the process of forming an opinion.
Walker brought up the fact that Johnson County Social
Services publishes in the newspaper, on a regular basis,
the names of individuals and the cash amount of aid
received from Johnson County.
5. The meeting was adjourned with a motion from Litton and a second
from Frimml, carried 6/0.
Corrections of these minutes made during Special Session 4-26-73
3, a. Paragraph three:
Stier - No
Duncan - No
Frimml - No
Hamer - No
defeated motion required roll call vote.
Litton - Yes
Walker - Yes
MEMBERS PRESENT: Stier, White, Hamer, Litton, Walker, Duncan
MEMBERS ABSENT: Frimml
STAFF PRESENT: Seydel
Chairman Stier called the meeting to order. Asked if the min-
utes of the previous meeting should be approved. Consensus
was to hold the approval until the next regularly scheduled
meeting.
1. At the April 4,;1973 meeting a motion was made by Frimml
that the Housing Commission recommend to the City Council
that the proposed Landlord -Tenant ordinance, as introduced
by Councilman Czarnecki, be rejected.as written. This
motion was seconded by Hamer and passed with a 6/0 vote.
2. It was the consensus of the Housing Commissioners that reasons
for their rejection should be provided the Council. The
primary and more significant are:
a. The code is strongly tenant oriented.
(Examples - ten day grace period for rent payments;
withholding of rent; payment of moving costs by owner;
landlord liable to tenant for thefts; many provisions
for penalties on owners and none for tenant violations;
short time periods for correction of deficiencies and
return of security deposits; subletting without owner
permission or knowledge)
b. The Housing Commission is not 'convinced that there is
a need for rent control guidelines in Iowa City.
C. The inherent high cost of administration and enforcement
of the Landlord -Tenant code.
d. The Housing Commission questions the magnitude of the
$5,000 per day penalty for violations.
3. After hearing presentations by PAT, those in the housing in-
dustry in the city, attorneys for both sides, holding a
public hearing and commission deliberation on this subject,
the Commission feels certain recommendations are in order.
They were presented as motions at this special session and
the results are as follows:
--1 - _Jv -- 1� �� cvern suggested, attempts
should be made to develop a common lease between ten-
ants and landlords. Motion was made by Stier and
seconded by Hamer, carried 6/0.
During the discussion of this item, it was suggested
that perhaps the Commission could act as arbitrator
or catalyst for this action. This was not a consensus.
B. The housing Commission strongly urges the City to en-
large the housing inspection staff to permit more timely
-
inspections and provide for follow-up and re -inspection
where required and strengthen enforcement of present
codes. Motion was made by Litton and seconded by
Duncan, carried 6/0.
C. The Housing, Commissionurgesthe City to establish
safeguards for tenants in buildings that have housing
code violations that will permit these deficiencies
to be corrected without tenant harassment and eviction.'
Motion was made by Litton and seconded by Walker, carried
D. The Commission recommends that the City establish pro-
cedures to guarantee the return of damage deposits
when these are due the tenant. Motion was made by
Litton and seconded by Walker.
A motion was made by Stier to amend the above motion
and was seconded by Hamer, to state that the City
develop safeguards for the damage deposit for both ten-
ant and landlords. The amendment passed with a 6/0 vote
and the amended motion passed 6/0.
Litton recommended that the Housing Commission arrange a
meeting with the City Council to discuss in more detail
these recommendations.
Litton moved to adjourn, Duncan seconded with all in favor.
Corrections of these minutes made during Special Session 4-26-73:
A. The City should appoint a landlord -tenant committee to
develop a lease in which both landlords and tenants
have input. Motion made by Walker and seconded by
Litton, passed with a 6/0. (Omit the above A).
C. Omit the word "permit" and insert the word "cause" in
the above C. Motion for change made by Litton and
• seconded by Hamer. Motion passed 6/0.
TOWA CITY HOUSING COMMISSION
MINUTES
April 18, 1973
MEMBERS PRESENT: Litton, Walker, White
MEMBERS ABSENT: Stier, Frimml, Hamer, Duncan
STAFF PRESENT: Seydel, Schierbrock
The number of members present did not constitute a quorum.
All items on the agenda that required voting action were
held until the next regular meeting.
The Coordinator's Report was given.
At the present time there are 209 units under lease and,
occupied. Since the last meeting, April 4, there have
been 5 applications for tenancy and 4 were accepted.
One is being held pending verification of residence.
Old Business
Walker stated that the word consensus was too liberal a
term used in the last minutes. She stated that minutes
going to the.City Council do not reflect the discussion
and the feelings of several of the members of the Com-
mission.
White commented that because the minutes report only -
an official action the feelings of members can not be
reflected unless there is action taken on each individ-
ual issue. If quotes are taken out of context the
whole meaning of the discussion might very well be
changed.
Litton and Walker recommended that perhaps specific reasons
why each member voted the way he did on the proposed
T -L ordinance be stated in the next meeting and in future
meetings.
New Business
For consideration, as Litton stated, the next meeting
should select a representative to be on the Housing
Committee of the Johnson County Regional Planning Com-
mission.
A special meeting was tentatively set for Thursday, April
• 26 at 7:30 p.m.
■
•
MINUTES
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
April 11, 1973
The Parks and Recreation Commission met in regular session on April
11, 1973, at 7:30 P.M., in Meeting Room B at the Recreation Center.
Members Present: June Davis
Members Absent:
Staff:
James Roegiers
Joan Buxton
Sarah Fox
Virginia Hebert
James Lindberg
Dr. Robin Powell'
Harry Ostrander
Jim Sangster '
Gene Chubb
Tom Hoff
Chairman Roegiers called the meeting to order.Minutes were approved
as mailed.
Jim Roegiers reported on a request received from Tom Wegman for a
motorcycle trail somewhere in the City. Mr. Wegman wrote in behalf
of the Iowa City Competition Riders Association who are asking that
some facility be provided for a motorcycle trail. Mr. Wegman's
letter was sent to the City Council and the. City Council has referred
this letter to the Commission for review. Gene Chubb stated a
possibility for this would be the South Landfill. 'After some discussion
Jim Lindberg indicated that although Mesquakie Park has certain
advantages, it would be on a short term basis. Jim Roegiers asked
that by the next meeting the staff have more information available
on the areas that would be feasible for this type of Recreation.
Jim Roegiers reported on the meeting of the Fees and Charges Sub -
Committee with Mr. Wells. The primary discussion was an arrangement
to include bussing, and also the swimming pool issue. Because of
the problems the Transit System is having with funding, it is a bad
time to consider subsidies for bussing. Itis, however, possible to
use revenue-sharing funds to provide free swimming, in all aspects
in the City.- There are a substantial quantity of dollars available
for this type of thing, to include all people. Also likely for
consideration would be that the Council consider free swimming
across the board for everybody everywhere, including instructions.
The idea is not at the point of being worked out yet. Gene Chubb
stated that the Council is aware of this idea, but that no action
has been taken. Mr. Roegiers expressed concern that the Council
will probably not act on the Commission's recommendation concerning
I
■
■
I.,,,
-2-
the swimming proposal until some resolution is made on the proposal
on revenue sharing.
Mr. Roegiers stated that it is important that some decision be.
reached quite quickly because it has to be cranked into an early
program with respect to swimming.
Jim Lindberg asked that in regard to revenue sharing, what happens.
after 5 years.
Harry Ostrander expressed apprehension in eliminating an established
fee system. Ile feels the current fee system has been carefully stated
worked out, well accepted by the public, and that the Commission should
pursue the money for the purposes of expanding other programs and
activities. He feels that you have to have fees for control purposes.
Sarah Fox expressed concern that the Commission has to get something
the Council soon in order for enactment for this summer.
* After some discussion, Harry Ostrander moved, seconded by Sarah Fox
that the Commission reaffirm theirrecommendationto 'Council on
March 14, 1973,.regarding free swimming. Motion carried by unanimous
vote.
Dr. Powell stated that he would much prefer to see the present system
continued, until the Commission has the time to examine the revenue
sharing possibilities, alternatives, and priorities.
The next item on the agenda was a discussion of the UAY and the 4C's
After School Elementary Recreation Program. Gene Chubb presented
a summary sheet to the Commission members. He explained that the
United Action for ,Youth Program is a program that is Federally
funded through the Regional Planning Commission with a $34,000 budget -
through June 30, 1973. Gene Chubb brought forth some of the problems
that exist with the program, and also asked for the Commissions thoughts
on a`, continuing service for this program.
Joan Buxton expressed the opinion that, spending monies on these persons
now and helping 'them to adjust to society, is better than taking
care of these people in some kind of an institution later.
Gene Chubb stated that he brought this before the Commission because
if they were of the feeling that this type of program should be
supported, it may be possible to use revenue sharing.
June Davis stated that she feels that there is definite value in
supporting these type of people.
I• Tom Hoff said that he wonders whose responsibility it is to lay out
the expenditures for 7 children.
-3
* At.this point, Jim Lindberg moved,, seconded by Joan Buxton that
the Parks and Recreation Commission forward the following statement
to the City Council.
Federal funds for the UAY group will cease on June 30, 1973. The
Commissionfeels that this,, program has received positive Recreation
benefits to various segments of the community. We recognize that
this program has elements other than Recreation which might be
supported by other agencies. We strongly recommend that the UAY
Program be continued beyond the June 30th date with local funds.
Motion carried by unanimous vote.
• After some further discussion about the 4C's Program, the following
motion was made by Sarah Fox, seconded by Joan Buxton.' The Parks
and -Recreation Commission recommends to the City Council that the
4C's existing pro ram be ex anded to include 4 schools next year,
g p g P.
under current operating principles. Motion carried by unanimous
vote
Jim Roegiers introduced, discussion for the Capital Improvements.Program.
It was decided by the Commission that a special_ meeting was needed to
further discuss this Program. A special meeting was '.set for April
25, 1973at7.:30 P.M. inthe Civic Center Conference Room.
Since there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Motion by Harry. Ostrander, second by June Davis.
Respectfully submitted,
I
1
1 C \`
Secretary
1.0
AGENDA
April 26, 1973
I. Secretary's Report
A. Minutes of the March 27, 1973 meeting
II. Financial Report
III. Approval of Bills
IV. Director's Report
A. Iowa City.Public Library
B. Seven Rivers Library System
V. Committee Reports
A. Finance Committee - meeting of April 241 1973
VI. Old Business
VII. Communications
A. Memo, dated April 5, 1973, from J.B. Pugh, Jr.,
Finance Director, to all department heads re
City-wide_ inspection of all -publicly -owned fac-
ilities by the Safety Engineering Division of
Hawkeye Security, Insurance.Company.
B. Thank you letter from Hulette Belle, dated April
13, 1973..
C. Letter, dated April 16, 1973, from Louane L.
Newsome, Associate Professor of Library Science,
in praise of Children's Librarian, Hazel Westgate.
VIII. New Business
A. Proposal for spending balance of Brubaker Fund:$365.00
To enhance the Library's record collection in
the area of American folk music — traditional,
American Indian, blues, etc. - it is`suggested.
that the following purchases be made:
1. Library of Congress. Folk Music series. 153.00
31 - 12" records a $4.95 each
selections from these famous authentic
recordings of North and South American
folk music, Negro, work and regional ballads
2. Library of Congress. John A. Lomax lectures 22.00
in American Folk Music.
5 - 12" records
-•
IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
1.0
AGENDA
April 26, 1973
I. Secretary's Report
A. Minutes of the March 27, 1973 meeting
II. Financial Report
III. Approval of Bills
IV. Director's Report
A. Iowa City.Public Library
B. Seven Rivers Library System
V. Committee Reports
A. Finance Committee - meeting of April 241 1973
VI. Old Business
VII. Communications
A. Memo, dated April 5, 1973, from J.B. Pugh, Jr.,
Finance Director, to all department heads re
City-wide_ inspection of all -publicly -owned fac-
ilities by the Safety Engineering Division of
Hawkeye Security, Insurance.Company.
B. Thank you letter from Hulette Belle, dated April
13, 1973..
C. Letter, dated April 16, 1973, from Louane L.
Newsome, Associate Professor of Library Science,
in praise of Children's Librarian, Hazel Westgate.
VIII. New Business
A. Proposal for spending balance of Brubaker Fund:$365.00
To enhance the Library's record collection in
the area of American folk music — traditional,
American Indian, blues, etc. - it is`suggested.
that the following purchases be made:
1. Library of Congress. Folk Music series. 153.00
31 - 12" records a $4.95 each
selections from these famous authentic
recordings of North and South American
folk music, Negro, work and regional ballads
2. Library of Congress. John A. Lomax lectures 22.00
in American Folk Music.
5 - 12" records
■
lnuian recording
companies.
4. A basic collection of American blues
5. Miscellaneous international folk music
to fill gaps in the existing collection
75.00
75.00 1
$365.00
Items 1 3 to be ordered immediately. Items
4 and 5 in process of being selected.
B. Proposal for spending $120 from Gifts and Bequests
Fund for an August Film Festival of four (4) feature
films
MEMBERS PRESENT: Braverman, Buchan, Canter, Downer, Richerson,
Ringgenberg, Summy, Trumpp
MEMBERS ABSENT: Bywater
STAFF PRESENT: Hurkett, Wawzonek, Spaziani, Carter, Kelley
OTHERS PRESENT: Jean Berry, League of Women Voters observer,
Linda Gray, practicum student
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the 'regular meeting of February 20, 1973 were approved
as corrected.
The minutes of.the special meeting of March 6, 1973 were approved as
previously submitted to the Board.
The minutes of the meeting of the Personnel / Building & Grounds com
mittee were approved as corrected.
FINANCIAL REPORT
The Director reviewed his written Financial Report with the Board.
LIBRARY BILLS
Following the Director's explanation of the purchase of replacement
fire extinguishers and the annual, service contract with Multigraphics, ;;
the bills were approved. (Trumpp, Buchan)
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
It was reported that the City is soliciting bids from air-conditioning
contractors for a City-wide maintenance contract of all air-condition-
ing equipment in City buildings. Appropriate information identifying
existing equipment was forwarded to the City on March 27, 1973.
The amended policy statement of the Board regarding CATV has been
given to the City Manager and to the Reverend Robert Welsh, Chairman
of the CATV committee.
A revised ICPL Personnel Policy statement has been drafted by the
Director following the meeting of the Personnel committee on March 20.
The Director requests that this draft be studied, and that if questions'
and/or objections be raised that would affect the status or benefits
of employees,that the employees be given the opportunity to answer
said objections before the policy decisions are 'finalized by the Board.
■
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
The Director reported on the status of federal funding for libraries
as follows:
(1) Congress appears to be "backing off" legislation dealing with
the "impoundment" of funds as it is felt that legislation on the sub-
ject would not be effective.
(2) LSCA, Title I funds reflect signed 4th quarter appropriations.
It is the feeling that Iowa wii.l have $116,000; however, these funds
will have to be divided according to priorities decided upon by the
State Librarian and the Iowa State Traveling Library Board following
the up -coming Executive Session with the, co-op administrators to be
held in Des Moines on Thursday, April 5, 1973.
Possible patterns of spending could include:
$ 40,000 to the handicapped (a mandated expenditure)
? - ISTL staff salaries
10,300 Centralized Processing
? I-LITE'(Title III)
? - co-ops, including Seven Rivers
? - special grants to serve the disadvantaged
$ 116,000
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Dr. Arthur Canter reported on the Seven Rivers Library System meeting
to discuss Senate File 271 (Library Statewide Service) which was held
Monday, March 12, 1973. This public meeting was attended by Board
members from this region in addition to academic librarians, school
librians, and public librarians and interested members of the public
who were urged to support library legislation now being considered by
the state legislature. Mr. Robert Downer criticized two aspects, of
SF -271: (1) Board members would be elected in General Elections;(2) a
regional Board of Trustees would be requested to contract for library
services with the largest public library within each region, specific-
ally the east central Board would be requested to contract with the
• Cedar Rapids Public Library. Following a general discussion the'consen-
sus was that we had a choice of supporting the bill or doing without
any regional library system and state support for libraries. Suzanne
Richerson pointed out that no regional library service, at•all, would,
be a backward step in time. Tom SummY pointed out that the benefits
of regional library service would be primarily directed toward the
• smaller towns. Clayton Ringgenberg pointed out that the regional
library service bill is not an attempt to put state funds where
federal funds have been and thus, to continue the same,'system of
library service, but rather a broader plan which was conceived when
federal funds were still available and which intended to add state
funds to the federal funds so that a service plan much broader in
scope could be brought into focus. For under this plan, local li-
braries would no longer be tied to the local property tax. A motion
that the Board support SF -271 was carried. (Canter, Richerson)
It was recommended by the Personnel / Building & Grounds committee
that the City Personnel Policy be accepted with changes which apply
specifically to the Library. At the Personnel Committee meeting
the Director had been asked to draft such,a policy statement and this
draft was presented at this time for consideration at the next regular .
meeting of the Board of Trustees.
The Building & Ground Committee recommended that an additional tele-
phone line be added at a cost of approximately $18 per month plus a
one-time $15 installation charge. Further that a telephone reception-
ist/olerk,position be established at'a.rate of $396 per month for the
six-month probationary period of employment It was moved to follow
the committee recommendation., (Canter, Braverman)
The Personnel Committee recommended continuing the existing policy
regarding fringe benefits for part-time hourly employees. ,Suzanne
Richerson `commented that she believes that the Library Board is
making a far-reaching error in not ,following the existing City Policy
on hourly employees fringe benefits. She stated that we have a lower
level of employee classification than other City agencies and that
the Human Relations Commission is.already investigating City Policy
in 'regards to discrimination on account of sex. She commented that
we should take a hard look at any of our employment policies which are
less liberal than those of the City. Vivian Buchan commented that
if we adjust our Personnel Policy in regards to fringe, benefits we
should perhaps also "'tighten" our vacation policy to be in line with
the City. Kent Braverman commented that all of these adjustments
sould be looked at the beginning of a fiscal year. It was moved to
approve the committee recommendations. (Canter, Buchan)
OLD BUSINESS
None
COMMUNICATIONS
1•. Letter from League of Women Voters regarding 'open meetings" law.
Robert Downer commented that City Attorney, Jay Honohan, and he have
discussed the matter and concur that the Library Board has not vio-
lated the law. Correct procedural steps have been taken ee to notifi-
. cation in advance of all meetings. °Further, he stated that most of
the Executive Sessions have involved personnel matters, specifically
provided for by the Iowa Code and that the Board has not engaged in
a pattern of such meetings as is forbidden by the law.
3. A letter from Senator Dick Clark indicating that he shares the
concern of the Board about federal assistance to libraries and that
he will work for full funding.
4. A "Thank You" letter from Mary Unrath for a plant sent to her
following her recent illness.
5. A petition to the Library Board to take steps necessary.that the.
fine money paid for over -due library materials be credited -by -the
City of Iowa City to the library account for use in purchasing li-
brary materials. This petition was signed by fifty-one persons.
The meeting was adjourned.
Secretary
■ ._
9
Building: The telephone company has begun installation work to
give us a third line. Effective May 1, 1973, our new telephone
number will be 354-1264:
Personnel: Claudia Brown has been hired as our telephone recep-
tionist.— Mrs. Brown is a graduate of Fisk University, Nashville,
Tennessee, and has studied law at the University of Iowa for lis
years.
Processing: NILE Processing Center. The cost per volume has been
rats from 75G to 90G per volume, effective July 1, 1973. Hope-
fully the across-the-board fee of 90G per volume will be attractive
to large libraries who formerly were charged $l per volume if they
were not members of a cooperative. The increased volume ,which these
users would bring should reduce the unit cost per volume to all users
of the NILE Processing Center. At present, NILE receives--a-64G per
volume subsidy and the above quotes are dependent upon Governor Ray's
revised budget request being met.
Story Hours,'Children's Room: Beginning May 1, 1973, the Children's
Room will expand its pre-school story hours from two (2) to four (4)
programs, which will be given each Tuesday at 10:30' and 11:15 am
and at 1:30, and 2:30 pm. These times will continue during the sum-
mer. The regular 10:30 am story hour on Saturday mornings will con-
tinue also.
Miss Westgate and I have agreed that the increased attendance at
the story hours demanded an expanded schedule. The attendance has
ranged from 60'- 225 with 120 being the usual attendance. A'desir-
able attendance from the point of view of giving the children the
most favorable story hour experience would be 12 - 15; however, we
realize this would not be practical. Our goal is to achieve an
attendance of about 50 - 60 at each of the story sessions. It is
hoped, that some of the partens and children now attending the morn-
ing session will find it more convenient to attend an 'afternoon ses-
sion. Certainly, Hazel feels that a smaller number at each session
will be a lot easier for her to handle and the prepartaion time will
not be increased.
-7
0
•!1
ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT
.
Jack W. Purkett
Governor Ray has requested that almost $300,000 be appropriated
for the Iowa State Traveling Library over the next two years.
This amount would enable the I -LITE teletype network and the
NILE Processing Center to be continued.. This appropriation
would not restore funding to existing cooperatives, nor would
-
it affect the regional library proposal (SF -271).
Senator Shaw, the ranking member of the State Government Com-
mittee, states that in regard to the regional library service
bill (SF -271) "cost will be a stumbling block to creation of
such a system at this time. We already know that among federal
grant and aid cuts we are going to lose nearly all of the money
now going to the State Traveling Library. It would seem unlikely
that we would be able to replace that loss and move into a re-
gional library program this year."
Since Senator Shaw, Senator from Scott County, made the above
statement, the State Government Committee has favorably reported
the bill. The bill now is in the 'Appropriations Committee of
which Senator Minette Doderer is a member. It is not necessary
that Senator Do derer`be 'contacted because she has already received '
so many requests for support of the.bill-that she has committed
herself to support for the measure.
We must realize, however, that other senators on the Committee
may still need persuasion. Further, there is a real fear that
publicity surrounding the Governor's request for restoring funds.
to ISTL may confuse the issue.
I request that the Secretary of the Board send a resolution of
support to each of the senators in the Seven Rivers area when
the bill comes out of committee (probably about May 2).
Revenue sharing funds will be used locally. Unless we were to
separately request and receive revenue sharing funds from each
of the counties' in which our member libraries are located there
is no source of funding for the existing cooperative or for the
regional library service contemplated under the'state plan of
library service filed by the State Library with the, federal re-
gional office in Kansas City. It would appear that many areas
of the state will receive reduced library service and some will
receive no direct public library service at all.
Libraries across the country will dim their lights on Tuesday,
May 8,to illustrate their united approach to meeting the dangers
of reduced funding. This symbolic act will call attention to
threats to the library services many people now enjoy. The
dimming of the lights will focus, attention on the nationwide
•
effort whose theme is "Dimming the Liahts on the Public's Right
to Know."
0
V i 11111 C 11
Brooklyn
Wilton
Kirkwood (for Men's Reformatory at Anamosa)
II. Meetings with Boards RE legislation
Belle Plaine - 4 member -libraries represented
Vinton - 7 member -libraries represented
Clinton - 4 member -libraries represented
Iowa City - 5 member -libraries represented
Tipton - 4 member -libraries represented
I_•
Shellsburh
Marengo
Gladbrook'
IV. Special Events
Evaluation - Vinton
Chelsea - 3 days helping set-up new Library, weeding,
location, etc.
-9-
1
The advent of March and spring has turned the.children's room
'1' from a fall of snow to a flight of butterflies around
cei ing
five daisies. Even the nature of inquiries
sot books a
is changibout ng;
I
the very little boy asks, "Have you g
have a worm:" However, though 'circulation and reference ques-
tions continue very high, the addition of Paula Matthews to
our staff eases our busy days.
Mrs. Leslie Moeller came on Saint Patrick's Day to be a grand-
mother storyteller, and before she left everyone had created
shamrock -shapes on the floor with lengths of green yarn and
learned about making potatoes and carrots grow in a dish.
Among other things: our first folder of book reviews has been
ireceived from 5th graders at Shimek. Most of a second set of
record/book combinations has been processed, and we now have
enough to^permit more than one to a patron. An extensive
film program is being included in our summer activities; the
films, both rental and free, have been ordered and. we have
confirmations on many of them. And three.;particularly success-
ful performances of "How the Elephant Got His Trunk" were given
to full -house audiences by the Popo Puppeteers.
Since three of the children's room supportative_staff are en-
Irolled'in libraryscience-courses, we have chosen to give them
a practical exercise in book selection and with enough catalog
scuss the books with us
:listings to go around, to have them di
and to help in the purchasing for spring.
Finally; the moving 'of'our desk unit forward has given us a
whole new way of life as well as sufficient room "to swing a
cat --- or the child who told us that any wet letters we receive
i
are probably that way because of the postage dew!
-10-
REFERENCE/ADULT SERVICES
• Rose Lechay, Sr. Librarian
i I!'Ii '� III
6FA/clSR.V,icES
;
/YDO.
I�
00
1.6001
Z/1/001.
I.-TOOI i
CO
lv'gco'
J
166VLII
rr-rl
Summer and vacation time are approaching, and many reference ques-
tions deal with, problems involved in,pianning trips. Among questions
received in March were
- What are the hunting laws in Wyoming?
What are the hours of the Renoir show in Chicago?
- Do you have a detailed street map of Paris?
- What are the rates of the Water Tower Inn in Chicago?
Doyouhave information on Muscatine island?
- How do I get to Tiffin?
- How many lire to a dollar?
- How do I get to Yellowstone Park?
—What information do, you have on Rockefeller Center?
Some general questions:
Did Freud have a middle name?
May I look up my birth announcement on Press -Citizen microfilm?
What are the names of the City Council members?
Does the Library have a list of local job opportunities?
- Was Red Grange on a 1924 football team?
Can you tell me the value of a Dali print?
- Who was Le000ld's partner in the famous murder case?
- Does the Library have information about the legend that Sarah
Berhhardt was born in Rochester, Iowa?.
Will you check the City Directory to see whether an individual is
married?
- Where is President McKinley buried?
- Do you have the words and music to "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime"?
-11-
All materials on the following subjects were checked out during
March:
Time -Life photography series
typing manuals
books on VD
all copies of Mother Earth News
indoor gardenin_g
batik technique
Irish songs on records
how to build dog houses
The total number of reference questions reached another all-time
high in March. There were 1,730 questions, 125 more than the pre-
vious high set in February, and almost 400 more than the number
of questions received in March 1972. Reference services provided
to Seven Rivers members through ILL totaled 141 (not including
books loaned), reflecting the heavy use of our materials by member
libraries.,
19
-12-
0
f
J FAA A-rXAso NOSFMAM53As oK v
BO/j�OU.) 47 t7 7 �1 tCs /� M( 6ef5
—�' tioppN �d � pb D R ive �e�►bks
(/�sJCpaar �owtv /ty
ytn
�Q
c
A
T
T
X
-
So�D�
Fm2Ass sDN
�FMAMTsglonDIP AIffl-44 M
roewe4/ Ci I
-13-
DaAVJL;B CONTRACTS
I. Number of borrowers
registering during
March,
1973
Johnson County
Lone
Tree
Adult
North Liberty
Juvenile
157
7
7
0
17
Total
164
5
I2. Number of re
registered
borrowers to date
7
22
•
Johnson County
Lone Tree.
Adult
North
Liberty
Juvenile
670
20
135
i
0
71
Total
690
7
112• Number of items circulated
during March,
135
78
1973
Johnson County
19721973
Lone Tree
1972
North
Liberty
Adult
1973
1972
1973
.Juvenile
2,262
1321 -
1,,321
156
154
175
7
126
0
147
149
Total2,9
70 2,269
5 •
282
IV. ,Number of items circulated January —March,
154
322
154
1973
Johnson County
1972 1973
Lone Tree
1972
North
Liberty
Adult1973
1973
1972
Juvenile
4,914 5,611'
3,749 2,066
373
385
633
291
97
485
634
Total161
8,663 7,677
614
482
1,118
795
�vxs
Record
Quest
Art Re
16mm
8mm Fi
TOTAL
B. Childr
C. .TOTAL
TI..Interlibra
A. Borrow
B. Loaned
C. Refe
III. Reference
A. Inte
B. In per
C. Mail
D. Teleph
Total
IV. Registered
A. Adult
B. Childr
C. TOTAL
s
ions
films/#"o
1,5,49
2,041
2,389
answered
productions
76
96
1,377
106
244
252
324
viewers
lms
ADULT
18,787
21,461
<22,442
en's Department
`21,085
21,519
23,597
CIRCULATION
39,8.72
42,980
-46,039
ry Loan
ed
63
59
21'.,
259
392
423
rences to ILL
Questions (Adult Department)
rlibrary Loan
son reference', questions
Reference Questions
one reference questions
Reference Questions
**
104
519
**
112
656
141
***
749*WN"
7
410
26
55 a
106
875**
11040
1,344
1,730
Borrowers
Department
14,176
16,523
6,189**
en's Department
6,695
6,183
60083
REGISTERED BORRO.dERS
20,871
22,706
12,272**
* statistics not kept until May 1972
** statistics of reference services to ILL not kept as such until 1-1-73
*** these figures are also reflective of II (C)
**** statistics reflect new policy RE issuance of new non -expiring cards and
the re -registration to obtain such cards; policy effective 1-1-73
-16
'�i3' L'"�' 3�{',liL�dyx rR)IyY, hTMr 4h.I, r i
f >
"HOWiH OF •,t.i,LEC'.'1"1N5
A.
Books
1971
1972
1973
1. Adult and Young Adulr
Fiction
16,27_7
17,741
17,325
Non-fiction - _ -
33,068
39,545
43,484 _
Periodical Volumes
21876"
2'
#876
2,876
TOTAL
52,221
_.....
60,162:
6.3,685
2. Children's
Fiction ----- ..—:_...._..---- ---
10 334
:...__
10 , 761
11, 495
Non-fiction - _ _
17,448''
18,463
21;485
T(YI'AL _ - -
- - -- -
27,782
29,197
32 980
3. 'Dotal Books, Adult ;in,i ;;tnl i el,
80,003
89,359
96,665
B.
Recordings ---'1,196
1,781
2,124
Tape Recordings
r.
C.
Art Reproductions
12 12
81
80
Microfilm _.�_----•----•-•-•--- I
-- 2
286
349
D.
8mm Films (Number ofreel.,
556
210'
552
817
_
Paperbacks __
P (non -cataloged) _ ----
"'-" -
320,
380
786
501
FIRAP:E• FINES ANE FEES
1.
Fines Collected_ _ _ N
$758.82
$763.85
$891.96
Other: telephone commission
��.
8.66
3.
Total
$758.82
$763.85
$900.62
•
-17-
I
TI.
B.
C
D.
Total Attendance - 855
Average Attendance - 71
Classes - 28
Headstart - 10
Friendship - 2
Pine 5
Lemme, Kindergarten 2
Lemme, lst grade
Lemme, 2nd grade -2
Child Psychiatry Service
Melrose - 2
Shimek, 5th grade
Nelson
University Parents .Care Collective
Special Events
March 10 - POPO Puppeteers -"How the Elephant Got_His Trunk",
3 performances, attendance of 425
March12- Grandmother Story Hour, Mrs. Leslie Moeller
March 31 - Foreign Story Hour, Ayse Isikli
Children's Reference Questions — 1,185
Groups Using the Library
March 3 - VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance)
March 4' VITA
March 5 - VITA
March 6 - Headstart Mothers
Iowa City Charter Committee
VITA
March 7 - Kirkwood Community College, Pre -Retirement series
VITA
March 8 -',VITA
March 10 - Johnson County legislators, Regional Planning
VITA
March 12 -''Seven Rivers Library System
March 13 Headstart Mothers
March 14 - Iowa City Board of Realtors, Education Committee
Kirkwood Community College, Pre -Retirement series
March 16 - Iowa Tax Consultant
March 19 - VITA
March 20 - Headstart Mothers
VITA
March 21 - Kirkwood Community College, Pre -Retirement series
Iowa City Board of Realtors, EducationCommittee
VITA
March 22 - VITA
March 23 - Iowa Tax Consultant
March 24 - VITA
Johnson County legislators, Regional Planning
-18-
r -i
■
III. Publicity and Promotion
A. Displays
"Learning Disabilities"
"Examples of Fine Printing from Iowa City Handpresses"
"Nutrition Week"'
"Nostalgia: The Eras of the '20's, 130's and '40's
"Arthritis Foundation
"Photographs from Iowa City Adult Education Class",
B. Brochures and Booklists
NEW
Business Information Bulletin
The 120,s. y
The '30's booklists'used ,with "Nostalgia" display
The '40's'
"How to Contact Your Elected Officials"
C. Newspaper and Radio Announcements
weekly Press -Citizen schedule, of events
"New FIlms to be Previewed at Library"
"Puppet Show Saturday at Library"
"Photographson Exhibit at Library"
D. Programs
weekly film programs, 5 programs with attendance of 201
IV. Staff Activities
Hurkett:
March 5 - meeting with City Manager and other City department
heads to discuss CATV
6 - special meeting of Library Board of Trustees, CATV
7 - City Manager's staff meeting;
spoke to Iowa City Lion's Club RE Library services
6 — discussion with Richard Hutchins, U of I Law Libr.
RE pending library legislation
9 - Library Workshop, Commission for the Blind in D.M.
12 - discussion with J.B. Pugh, Jr., Finance Director,
RE part-time employees and payment of same;
• Seven Rivers Library System meeting RE pending
Library legislation
13 - meeting with Joe Schimberg, NW Bell Telephone, RE
design of new system
-19-
VI
Carter:
March 5 - Mayor's Youth Employment Program Board meeting
9 - Librarian's Workshop, Commission for the Blind, D.M.'.
14 - Dottie Ray Show, KXIC
22 - United Way Board meeting
Spaziani:
March 8 - United way Planning Division meeting
12 — Seven Rivers meeting on pending Library legislation
27 spoke to Library Science Business class
Kelley:
March 23 — attended meeting at IMU, "Problems Facing Public
Libraries Today", speech by A. Trezzo,-Illinois
State Librarian
Westgate:
March 12;_— spoke with Mary Ann White, Library Science student,
about book ;selection
22 —talked with_practicum students RE Children's Services
30 - ILART meeting, Boone
Tours
Kirkwood Adult High School Completion Social Studies class
Cosgrove Junior High, 26 students
Solon High School, 19 students
Gifts
25 adult non-fiction
1 adult fiction
12 records
-20-
Personal Services
Payroll
Commodities
Demco Educational Corp.
Roshek's
Henry Louis, Inc.
Josten's
Arnould,Sales-Agency
Hach Brothers Co.
Iowa, Book &Supply Co.
Every Bloomin' Thing
University Camera and Sound
Iowa Lumber Co.
Lenoch & Cilek
Frohwein Supply
Xerox Corp.
City of Iowa City
Services and Charges
March $ 11,431.19
$ 11,431.19.-
Misc. Operating Supplies
$ 23.85
'Misc. Operating Supplies
2.00
Educational Supples
52,30
Office and Operating Supples
227.70
Office Supplies
208.35
Sanitation Supplies
62.95
Office Supplies
7.45
Book and 'Supplies
12.00
Misc, Supplies
8,27,.
Equipment and Supplies
50.10
Plumbing Supplies and Paint
6.36
Office Supplies
52.09
Office Supplies
20,90
Office Supplies-- March
20.64
Swartzendruber's
Technical Services
Pitney Bowes
Rental and Maint, to Equip.
Erb's Office Service Inc.
Equip. Maint;
Chenoweth -Kern Elevator Service
Building Maint.
Lauretta'Eggers
Travel Expense
Northwestern Bell
Phone Service
Ceneral Pest Control
Pest Control Service
Iowa Library, Assoc,
Membership Dues
Multigraphics Div,
Equip. Maint.
M. Dewey McGuire
Technical Service
Aero Rental
Equip. Rental
Iowa City Press Citizen
Publication
Kahler Electric
Bldg., Repair
Jack W. Hurkett
Travel Expense
Hazel Westgate
Travel Expense
Iowa Illinois Gas & Electric
Gas &'Electricity
I. C. Industrial & Clean Towel
Laundry Service
Eastman Kodak Co.
Equipment Repairs
• Iowa Parcel Service
University of Iowa
Freight
Work Study Wages
Northwestern Bell
Phone Service
City of Iowa City
Xerox - Feb. & March
City of Iowa City
Water and Sewer Service
$ 8.50
82.10
46.90
133.23
27.47
44.21
15.00
45.00
364.88
27.00
4.50
8.25
12.00
38.54
3.50
484.95
9.00
50.55
8.08
118.20
90.04
8.00
25.25
754,96
>i
'46
•
Northwestern Bell
Wats & Phone Service
13.91
City of Iowa City
Multilith -.March
53.60
Jack W. Hurkett
Travel Expense
75.00
City of Iowa City
office Supplies - March
20.64
1,818.30
Capital Outlay
Seven Rivers Library System
Book Deposit
5,000.00
Demco Educational Corp.
Operating Equipment
216.00'
Frohwein Supply Co.
Office Equipment
283.50
5,499.50
Library Gift and Bequest
The Frame House
Mounting
11.35
11.35
TOTAL
$19,515.30,
The above bills are approved
for payment:
Chairman of Library Board
Secretary of Library Board
Dated
1973