HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-11-15 Info Packetj r 1 City Council Information Packet
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CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.iogov.org
IP1. Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
November 20 Work Session
IP2. Work Session Agenda
IP3. Pending Work Session Topics
Miscellaneous
IP4. Memo from Mayor: 12 Court Street Height bonuses
IP5. Letter to Mayor from President& CEO, U.S. Green Building Council: L E E D
C ity
IP6. Memorandum from Neighborhood and Development Services Director:
Affordable Housing Action Plan Update
P7. Letter from State Historian, State Historical Society of Iowa to Historic
Preservation Planner: First Unitarian Church
IP8. Civil Service Entrance Examination: Animal Services Officer
Draft Minutes
IP9. Airport Commission: October 18
November 15, 2018 City of Iowa City Page 1
Item Number: 1.
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
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November 15, 2018
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Tentative MeeLing Schedule
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
Date
City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
Subject to change
Time
Meetina
November 15, 2018
Location
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Saturday, January 5, 2019
8:00 AM
Budget Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Monday, January 14, 2019
4:00 PM
Reception
Jo. County Admin Bldg.
4:30 PM
Joint Entities Meeting
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
1:00 PM
Budget Work Session (CIP)
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
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November 15, 2018
Work Session Agenda
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
11/20 Work Session agenda
Item Number: 2.
I r i
. JuL-
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(3 19) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
www,Icgov,org
City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Emma J. Harvat Hall - City Hall
5:00 PM
• Update on emerald Ash Borer efforts, including discussion of possible
chemical treatment of ash trees defined as marginal in health by the
City's recent tree survey
• Clarification of Agenda Items
• Information Packet Discussion [November 8, November 15]
• Council updates on assigned boards, commissions and committees
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
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November 15, 2018
Pending Work Session Topics
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Pending Work Session Topics
Item Number: 3.
m�010
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF LITERATURE
PENDING CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION TOPICS
November 14, 2018
December 41h, 2018
1. Review solar feasibility study
Strategic Plan Actions Reauirinp- Initial City Council Direction:
1. Through cooperation with the Iowa City School District, Iowa Workforce Development, Kirkwood
Community College, Iowa Works, and others, increase opportunities for marginalized populations and low-
income individuals to obtain access to skills training and good jobs
2. Improve collaborative problem -solving with governmental entities in the region on topics of shared interest
3. Explore expanded use of a racial equity toolkit within City government, embedding it within city
department and Council levels
4. Review the preliminary traffic accident analysis and related set of recommendations and hear from
University of Iowa Professor Jodi Plumert on her related research. Discuss approach to on -street parking
regulations for narrow streets.
Other Topics:
1. Joint meeting with the Telecommunications Commission
2. Review alternative revenue sources
3. Consider a plan for rubberized surfacing at park playgrounds and develop strategies to address equity gaps
noted in the Parks Master Plan and plan for the equitable distribution of destination parks within an easy and
safe distance of all residents. (request Parks Commission to discuss first)
4. Review of RFC Form Based Code, including density bonus provisions and height allowances
5. Discuss future City actions in response to the home at 101 Lusk
6. Review options to bolster the South District Home Investment Partnership program
Item Number: 4.
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
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November 15, 2018
Memo from Mayor: 12 Court Street Height bonuses
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Memo from Mayor, `12 Court St. height bonuses
Kellie Fruehling
From: Jim Throgmorton
Sent: Thursday, November 15, 2018 2:56 PM
To: Council
Cc: Kellie Fruehling; Geoff Fruin; Eleanor M. Dilkes
Subject: 12 Court St height bonuses
Attachments: Mayor's Nov 15 Memo to Council re 12 Court..docx
Fellow Council members,
Please see the attached memo.
Mayor Jim Throgmorton
Iowa City City Council, At -Large
To: City Council
From: Mayor Jim Throgmorton
Subject: Height bonuses for Pentacrest Gardens
Date: November 15, 2018
On November 6, we discussed possible height bonuses for "Pentacrest Gardens" at 12 Court St.'
Danielle Sitzman provided us with an overview of the Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan;
the Form Based Code; the development process and possible height bonuses; and how the Plan,
the FBC, and possible height bonuses apply to the 12 Court St. site.2 I want to thank Danielle for
making such an excellent presentation.
Although no official votes were taken, a majority (4) of us informally indicated a willingness to
permit the developer to receive the maximum height bonus permitted in the South Downtown
Sub -District: 7 stories for each of the buildings (presumably four) at the site. And we instructed
the staff to inform the 12 Court Street development team to prepare a draft height bonus proposal
for Council to discuss at an upcoming work session.
In principle, I think the 8 stories permitted pursuant to the upzoning we approved a few weeks
ago are appropriate in scale and sufficient in density. However, as I said during our November 6
meeting and as I indicated during our earlier discussions about rezoning the site, I also think
there are good reasons to authorize bonuses resulting in an average maximum building height of
11-12 stories.3
Although I think some bonuses are warranted, I strongly believe that permitting the maximum
permissible bonus is a serious mistake; it would result in a project that is excessive in scale and
unnecessarily risky for both the developer and the city. In my judgment, the development needs
to be scaled down and stretched out over time.
First, with maximum bonuses, the project will far exceed what the Master Plan — which was
developed with extensive public participation and support — anticipated for the site. That Plan
envisioned four buildings, which would be 4-7 stories in height plus a possible height bonus.
However, the developer envisions — and the Council has tentatively authorized — a complex
consisting of four 15 -story structures. Such a complex would be far out of scale with virtually all
the other buildings in and near downtown and would, therefore, radically alter the character and
identity of the city. The resulting transformation would be irreversible; the buildings would last
for decades to come, whether they succeed or fail. Moreover, construction of this project might
also divert investment away from other parts of the Riverfront Crossings District and thereby
undermine our ambitions for that area.
' A video of this work session can be viewed at: https:Hcitychannel4.com/watch-online.html
2 See the Council's November 8, 2018, information packet, which is available at:
https:Hiowacity.novusagenda. com/AgendaPublic/MeetingsResponsive.aspx
3 See my June 28, 2018, memo to the Council (attached). These bonuses would be based on: (1) dedication of the
Capitol Street right-of-way to the City, (2) a transfer of density from the Tate Arms historic landmark site, and (3)
assurance that the management and interior design of the building would help students mature safely and thrive
academically. For details about the U of I's design requirements for its newest residence halls, see the June 2 email
from David Kieff to Geoff and me.
Second we have already a massive Lapzoning, which permits the owner to (at least) Quintuple the
number of beds on the site from 200 to (at least) roughly 1,000. We did so by rezoning the site,
which authorized the developer to build several structures up to 8 stories in height and the staff
to increase that by two bonus stories subject to review by the Design Review Committee.
The 12 Court Street site is a very good location for student -oriented housing, but, if it
accommodates 1,000 or more students, we should carefully consider the project's potential
effects on the off -campus student housing market. In my judgment, it would be unwise to enable
one developer to control too large a share of off -campus student housing. It would also be
unwise to permit the supply of off -campus student housing to increase so much and so quickly
that it undermines the viability of apartment complexes that currently serve the student market.4
Third, there is no need to overreach: u zp oning coupled with modest bonuses would still yield
very large increases in the tax base and property tax revenues. Increasing the tax base is not one
of the elements listed in the FBC as warranting height bonuses, but it clearly has been a relevant
factor in the Council's decision making. By rezoning the property, we already enabled the owner
to, by right, increase the number of beds and property tax revenue on the site roughly 5 -fold. If
we authorized height bonuses resulting in an average height of 12 stories as advocated in my
June 28 memo, we would be enabling the City's property tax revenues to increase by —$1.28
million per year.5
Fourth, an increase in site-specific property tax revenues might be substantially offset by
decreases elsewhere. In other words, we need to think about the net change in property tax
revenues rather than base our decision entirely on gross property revenue generated by
development on this site. On this point, I ask you to consider three factors:
1. Rental housing vacancy rates have been increasing significantly. As part of an unrelated
rezoning, we received a market assessment which reported that rental vacancy rates had
increased to 4.4% in 2017 and was expected to increase to 7% by 2019 as a result of
imminent completion of several new multifamily development projects. (It is not clear to
me whether the 7% projection included 12 Court Street's 2,000 beds.)
2. Increased vacancy rates might result in property devaluations and hence decreases in
property tax revenue from other rental housing complexes. Shortly before we rezoned the
property, I had a lengthy discussion with the owner of several apartment complexes. He
expressed considerable concern about the recent and projected increase in rental housing
vacancy rates and drew my attention to negative effects this is likely to have on the
assessed value of his properties and others like his. These concerns were also expressed
4 In his July 31 memo to us, Geoff reported: "The combined owners of the proposed development have interest in
and management of well over 1000 units and 3000 bedrooms in the Iowa City area. They manage an extremely large
share of apartments in Iowa City with the majority of them rented to college students". By adding 2,000 beds from
this proposed development, the developer's family would own at least roughly 25% of off -campus student housing.
5 In his June 28 memo to us, Geoff reported, "Based on conversations with the City Assessor and using an estimated
unit count of 1000 [i.e., —2000 beds], we estimate the tax generation to be around $3.9 million for all taxing districts.
Of the $3.9 million approximately $1.6 million would be generated for the City of Iowa City annually. The 2016
total taxes for the property were $250,921."
to us in a letter we received from Larry Svoboda, the owner of Campus View
Apartments. Svoboda claimed the number of incoming U of I students is declining, the
number of vacant apartments is growing by leaps and bounds, vacancies will rise to
critical levels, "rate wars" for survival will start, the big companies will take their profits
and run, building values will decline, and some owners will simply walk away from their
buildings.
3. The 15-sto1y scenario might be very risky for the developer. An August 14 Bloomberg
News article titled, "How long will student housing be big business?", Noah Buhayar,
Kristi Westgard, and Gillian Tan basically argued that investors in big new student -
oriented housing projects face many risks.b If investors in such projects face many risks,
then so too would Iowa City.
Fifth, key risks for the developer and for the city are the possibility of (1) declining enrollments
at the University and/or (2) a U of I policy decision to require 2nd year students to live on
campus. University officials have told us the U of I does not intend to increase enrollment and
that the current enrollment of 32,000 is generally felt to be the right size for the University. They
also reminded us they are currently studying options to require first and second year students to
live on campus, based on institutional objectives of student retention and success. If pursued, this
policy shift would undoubtedly impact local apartment capacities and rents. Beginning in 2019,
the University will conduct a small program that tests this live -on requirement within one of their
existing residence halls. Moreover, after we rezoned the property, the University reported that its
enrollment had dropped by about 550 students this year as compared with last and that its
Mayflower Residence Hall was only about 60% occupied.
Sixth, the upzoning we already approved will, when coupled with modest height bonuses,
substantially increase the supply of affordable housing. City Code requires residential and
mixed-use developments in the Riverfront Crossings District to include affordable housing, and
no bonus is required to provide a further incentive. If one assumes an overall height bonus
equivalent to an average height of 12 stories, the developer would have to contribute roughly 80
affordable units (160 beds) either on site or by paying a fee -in -lieu contribution. According to
Geoff s June 28 memo, the equivalent fee -in -lieu contribution would be $6,469,600 (as
compared with $8,087,000 for the 15 -story scenario). On this point, I agree with Mazahir that
most of the affordable housing requirement should be met through a fee -in -lieu contribution.
In brief, there are non -trivial uncertainties and risks associated with building new large-scale
student housing on this site. In light of those risks and uncertainties, I strongly believe we should
scale down the project and ensure that it is phased in over time rather than built quickly as a
complex consisting of four 15 -story buildings.
Such a scaled-down project would be more consistent with the Riverfront Crossings District's
Master Plan, would provide high quality off -campus student housing close to the University,
would yield very large increases in net property tax revenue to the city, would generate over $6
million for our Affordable Housing Fund, and would achieve high quality urban design that
enhances the quality and character of the neighborhood.
6 See: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-08-14/how-long-will-student-housing-be-big-business
Attachment
To: City Council
From: Mayor Jim Throgmorton
Subject: Proposed Conditions for 12 Court Street Rezoning
Date: June 28, 2018
Our agenda for Tuesday night's formal meeting includes the proposal to rezone 12 Court Street
from RM -44 to RFC -SD. Approval of this rezoning could result in construction of what might be
the largest residential development ever proposed in Iowa City. As such, it requires careful
thought and discussion on our part.
I generally support the proposed rezoning with the conditions recommended by the P&Z
Commission. I do so primarily because the rezoning is largely consistent with the 2013
"Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan." This Master Plan is an excellent piece of
work, which was developed with a great deal of public participation. Moreover, the property at
12 Court Street is an ideal location for higher density, well-managed student -oriented housing;
rezoning with conditions recommended by the staff and the P&Z Commission would open up
Capitol Street; and the rezoning would require any new residential structures on the site to
include a substantial number of affordable units. It is also possible, but not certain, that the
additional residential units would put more downward pressure on rents in general throughout
the city.
However, I also think it is necessary to attach additional conditions in order for the ultimate
development to be more consistent with the Riverfront Crossings District Master Plan, as well as
to address satisfactorily other concerns that have arisen during our past two meetings.
Background
When we opened the May 15 public hearing on the proposed rezoning, the Council had very
little information about what the developer envisioned building on the site. All we had was a
two-dimensional map showing the footprint of two rectangular buildings stretching from
Burlington to Court, along with the Capitol Street right-of-way being dedicated to the City. I had
heard that the developer expected to receive density/height bonuses that would maximize
potential density. From this I inferred, but did not know for sure, that the developer envisioned
building two elongated 15 -story structures.
The proposed use was consistent with the Master Plan, but the intensity of the development
appeared likely to be much greater than the 4-6 stories plus a possible height bonus
recommended in that Plan. The discrepancy led me to say that I tentatively did not agree with the
P&Z Commission's recommendation. As I indicate during the meeting, I did not necessarily
oppose what the developer wanted to build; I simply did not know what he wanted to build.
After considerable discussion, we continued the public hearing to May 29 so the developer could
clarify his intentions. The developer agreed to do this.
Upon opening the continued public hearing on May 29, we learned the developer envisioned
building four 15 -story buildings, which would contain 800-1,000 residential units (primarily or
perhaps exclusively for students) plus first floor retail. Except for the heights of the buildings,
the birds -eye view image the developer provided appeared to be very similar to what was
recommended in the Master Plan.
If we rezoned the property as recommended without any new conditions, the developer could
deviate from the Master Plan in important ways, subject to subsequent review by the P&Z
Commission and subject to final approval by the City staff and council through the Form Based
Code design review process.
At least one Council member argued that there was no reason to delay the rezoning and that
details would be resolved during the Form Based Code design review process.
However, I strongly believed the council should propose conditions for the rezoning as a way of
signaling clearly what it expects from the developer rather have the developer spend a lot of
money designing the buildings only to risk having the council deny the bonuses. Likewise, I
thought council members would find it very difficult to reject the bonuses once the developer
had spent a substantial amount of money on design and going through staff review processes.
Consequently, I argued we needed more time to identify and discuss possible conditions, which
the council has a legal right to do. I also wanted to learn from P&Z Commissioners why they
voted unanimously to support the proposed rezoning.
When I asked Council members during the May 29 meeting whether they were inclined to agree
with the commission's recommendation, 3 said they were and 3 said they were not. This meant
we were required offer to consult with the commission and continue our public hearing to July 3.
This continuation would not and did not delay the developer's project because the developer is
not far enough along in his planning for the project. Moreover, if the rezoning is approved, the
developer will still need to gain staff and council approval for any height bonuses he requests.
When thinking about height bonuses, it is important to keep in mind that the developer has no
legal "right" to the bonuses. Whether or not they would be granted is solely up to the council's
discretion.
In the days after our May 29 meeting, I learned that perhaps as many as 2,000 residents, almost
all of whom would be undergraduates, would be housed in the proposed development.
Accompanied by the City Manager, I subsequently spoke with key officials at the University of
Iowa to learn what the University's interests are and about exploratory conversations it had held
with the developer over the preceding 6+ months.
These process has led me to conclude that the most important things we need to do are: (1) to
ensure that any residential structures designed to house as many as 2,000 students be designed
and managed in a way that will enable those students to thrive academically; (2) to ensure that
the overall ensemble of buildings achieves a high standard of urban design and therefore
enhances the quality and character of the neighborhood; (3) to ensure that the Capitol St. right-
of-way and green spaces within the development are opened up, well -furnished, and well -
landscaped; and (4) to enable the developer to transfer density earned by his preservation of Tate
Arms.
Recommended Conditions
With these factors in mind, I propose that we amend the motion by adding the following
conditions to the proposed rezoning:
1. The development must substantially conform with the footprint of the buildings shown
on p. 61 of the Downtown and Riverfront Crossings Master Plan ("Master Plan") and
with the bird's eye view presented to the Council on May 29, 2018 ("Bird's Eye
View"), copies of which are attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
2. The development must include a landscaped and well -furnished pedestrian walkway
running east -west between the buildings and an interior courtyard between the
Voxman Music Building and the two easternmost buildings, as suggested in the
Master Plan and shown in the Bird's Eye View.
3. The Owner shall retain an architect team to design both the exterior and interior
components of the development. The architect team must have experience with both
high quality urban design and large scale urban student housing and/or residence halls.
The architect team shall be approved by the City Manager after consultation with the
City Council.
4. In accordance with the Riverfront Crossing Form -Based Code (FBC), any request for
bonus height shall "demonstrate excellence in building and site design, use high
quality building materials, and be designed in a manner that contributes to the quality
and character of the neighborhood." The development shall be eligible for height
bonuses based only on public right-of-way dedication, historic preservation density
transfer, and high-quality student housing. To assure that such quality and character is
achieved, the following conditions shall apply to any bonus height:
A. The average height of the four major buildings may not exceed 8 stories, and
the maximum heights of those four buildings must vary harmoniously. For
example, the buildings could be between 6 and 10 stories with any height in
excess of 8 stories to be approved by Council in accordance with the
provisions of City Code Section 14 -2G -7(G).
B. If the Owner seeks to transfer development rights from Tate Arms, said
transfer shall be allowable as a replacement for the E -W pedestrian walkway
between the two westernmost buildings with a structure not exceeding 4
stories in lieu of additional height on the four major buildings. [Bob Miklo is
checking to see how many square feet could be achieved in a 4 -story structure
between the two westernmost buildings.]
C. Condition 4A notwithstanding, an average of one additional story may be
permitted for the four major buildings in return for the developer dedicating
the former Capitol Street right-of-way back to the City. The additional stories
shall be used such that the maximum heights of the four major buildings
continue to vary harmoniously.
D. Condition 4A notwithstanding, an average of one additional story may be
permitted for the four major buildings for high quality student housing if the
student -housing -related requirements in Section 14 -2G -7(G)(8) of the FBC
are met. The additional stories shall be used such that the maximum heights of
the four major buildings continue to vary harmoniously.
E. In addition to the story indicated in Condition 4D, an average of two more
stories may be permitted for the four major buildings if the interiors of the
buildings are designed, maintained, and operated according to standards used
by The University of Iowa in its newest residence halls. The additional stories
shall be used such that the maximum heights of the four major buildings
continue to vary harmoniously.
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SL)4; CapitaSrreet Srudenr Housing
Bird's eye view presented to the Council on May 29, 2018
Item Number: 5.
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
November 15, 2018
Letter to Mayor from President & CEO, U.S. Green Building Council: LEED
city
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Letter to Mayor from U.S. Green Building Council
I
usGBc
November 14, 2018
2101 LST. NW
SUITE 500
J111, Throgmorton
WASHINGTON, Dc 20037
Mayor
202 828-7422
USGBc.ORG
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA
Mahesh Ramanulam Dear Mayor Throgmorton,
David Gottrned It is my pleasure to inform you that today the U.S. Green Building Council is recognizing your city
Michael Italiano
5 Richard Fednzzi as a LEED City. Your accomplishment in achieving STAR certification has qualified you for this
honor. On November 14, USGBC will announce that the STAR Community Rating System will
be fully integrated into our LEED for Cities and LEED for Communities certification programs.
With this move, we will align LEED for Cities and LEED for Communities with STATs key
performance goals and welcome your continued engagement and improvement.
Internationally recognized urban sustainability rating systems, LEED for Cities and LEED for
Communities provides third -party verification of the current performance of built -out cities and
communities and helps them develop responsible, sustainable, and specific plans for green
energy, water, waste, transportation and many other factors that contribute to the human
experience. Through the integration of the STAR Community Rating System into LEED for
Cities and Communities and STAR Communities into USGBC, we will be much closer to
advancing sustainable cities and communities around the world.
I would like to personally welcome you and the citizens of your city- to the LEED for Cities
program. You are among the vanguard cities in the world who are leading buildings and places
toward the highest standards of sustainability and ensuring a higher standard of living for your
citizens. Along with the 75+ other certified cities and communities, you constitute an elite group
of leaders who are demonstrating the power of radical transparency to ensure greater levels of
performance. Your leadership is sure to serve as a model for city planners and cities around the
world..
Hilari �7arnadore, the director of the STAR Communities program, is now Director of the
LEED for Cities and Communities program. She can provide seamless continuity for you and
your staff and answer any questions you may have about this important development.
As I mentioned, we will be making a public announcement via press release of the integration of
all certified STAR Communities into the family of LEED for Cities and Communities on
November 14, 2018. Please keep this information embargoed until this time. If you wish to issue
a release of your own, please contact Taryn Holowka, Senior Nice President of Marketing,
Communications & Advocacy at USGBC: tholowka(ausgbc.org.
I look forward to working with you in the years ahead.
Respectfully yours,
Mahesh Ramanujam -
President & CEO, U.S. Green Building Council
FINAL release: embargoed until 1 PM CT 11/14
STAR Community Rating System to be Fully Integrated into USGBC's LEED for Cities &
Communities Programs
USGBC unites with STAR Communities to advance healthy, green and economically strong cities
and communities
(Washington, DC) November 14, 2018—Today, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced that
the STAR Community Rating System, which offers certification for sustainable communities, will be fully
integrated into USGBC's LEED for Cities and LEED for Communities programs. This integration will help
advance healthy, green and economically strong cities and communities — and reflects USGBC's
partnership with STAR Communities, the non-profit that runs the STAR rating system.
USGBC's LEED for Cities and Communities programs provide third -party verification of the current
performance of built -out cities and communities.
"Integrating the STAR Community Rating System into LEED for Cities and Communities, will bring us
closer to our goal of advancing sustainable cities and communities around the world," said Mahesh
Ramanujam, president & CEO. "We are helping cities develop responsible, sustainable and specific plans
for energy, water, waste, transportation and many other factors that contribute to raising the standard
of living for all people around the world."
The 75 cities and communities that have achieved STAR certification and the 20 additional cities and
communities that are seeking STAR certification will now transfer into the family of LEED for Cities and
Communities. Hilari Varnadore, the director of the STAR Communities program, has also joined USGBC
as the Director of the LEED for Cities and Communities program.
"STAR has been a longtime collaborator with USGBC, said Hilari Varnadore, Director, USGBC. "In fact,
the STAR Community Rating System was inspired by LEED, and developed with LEED in mind. Through
this integration, these exceptional STAR communities will reach an even higher level of leadership where
they will be able to benchmark their current performance, hone in on targeted metrics to achieve
continuous improvement, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, human health and
economic prosperity. They also send the signal to city planners and policy makers that radical
transparency and accountability are necessary to ensure a new generation of places where people,
nature and businesses can all thrive."
The City of Columbia, South Carolina was recently certified under STAR. "As mayor of the City of
Columbia, South Carolina I could not be more pleased that our city's performance — and continued
commitment to improve that performance — qualifies us to join the illustrious ranks of LEED Cities
around the world," said Mayor Steve Benjamin, also Chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. "Our STAR
certification - earned last December has provided a great foundation for future work with the U.S.
Green Building Council, and we look forward to openly tracking and communicating our continued
social, economic and environmental performance so that the people of Columbia can be assured of our
measurable progress."
The development of equitable, safe, healthy, sustainable cities and communities at USGBC dates back to
the development of LEED for Neighborhood Development more than a decade ago. As new technologies
are developed and new strategies devised, there is a growing consciousness of the collective role
sustainability plays in human health and wellness.
"At USGBC, we have a vision that buildings and communities will regenerate and sustain the health and
vitality of all life within a generation," added Ramanujam. "In order to realize a sustainable future for all,
the next generation of green building must focus on the development of smart and resilient cities and
communities. Our cities must champion equitable, safe and healthy development policies; advanced
technologies that improve the performance of their communities and cities; and incorporate concepts
like wellness and human experience into city planning, development and management."
Cities and communities face many challenges in this day and age—citizens are demanding more
transparency and information about the places where they live, work, learn and play. LEED for Cities and
LEED for Communities address these concerns on a global scale.
LEED for Cities and LEED for Communities programs are helping to accelerate the leadership now being
shown by city and community leaders. LEED helps cities and communities benchmark current
performance, track performance metrics, communicate continuous improvement, educate residents,
visitors and business owners to demonstrate commitment to sustainability, human health and economic
prosperity. As a result, local governments are becoming laboratories of innovation and leadership, and
have an enormous opportunity to initiate a dynamic dialogue with citizens and earn their trust in the
process.
Item Number: 6.
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
November 15, 2018
Memorandum from Neighborhood and Development Services Director:
Affordable Housing Action Plan Update
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Memo from NDS Director Affordable Housing Update
CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: November 14, 2018
To: Geoff Fruin, City Manager
From: Tracy Hightshoe, Neighborhood and Development Services Director
Re: Affordable Housing Action Plan Update
The City Council approved fifteen affordable housing strategies to encourage and develop
additional affordable housing in Iowa City on June 21, 2016. The strategies and their
corresponding status can be found on the table below.
Strategy
Status
1. Continue to fund existing local
FY19 budget includes $200,000 for GRIP &
programs including GRIP (owner -occupied
$180,000 for the UniverCity program (three
housing rehab.) and UniverCity.
homes). To date, the City has purchased 68
homes for the UniverCity program. 65 have
been rehabilitated and sold for
homeownership.
®
2. Adopt an Affordable Housing
Completed 6/2016.
Requirement for the Riverfront Crossings
District. (10% of total units for 10 years or
fee in lieu)
®
3. Adopt code amendments that enable
Completed 6/2016.
the FUSE Housing First (Cross Park Place)
use in the community. 24 1 -bedroom
apartments for persons who are chronically
homeless and habitually cycle through
mental health services, corrections
systems, shelter and support services.
3.
Cross Park Place update:
Cont.
Anticipate opening in January 2019.
-
10-2-18 Council approved a Targeted
r_r
Preference for individuals referred by Shelter
House for HUD funded Permanent
Supportive Housing. Converted 5% of tenant
based vouchers to project -based vouchers.
24 project based vouchers will support Cross
Park Place (FUSE project).
z
4. FY19 Budget Process: Provide aline
FY19 budget includes $1,000,000 for
item for affordable housing (goal of
affordable housing.
$500,000 based on budget conditions).
November 15, 2018
Page 2
®
5. Distribution of Affordable Housing
The FY19 breakdown of funds:
dollars:
• $500,000 to be issued to the HTF in August
50% to the Housing Trust Fund of
2019.
Johnson County (HTF)
• $250,000 reserved for land banking.
25% held in reserve for land
($711,000 available. Currently evaluating
banking
possibilities.)
• 5% reserved for emergent
. $50,000 reserved for emergent situations.
situations (if unused, reserved for
Any remaining balance, as of 6/30/2019, will
land banking)
be shifted to land banking.
• 20% directed through HCDC for
• $200,000 directed through HCDC for LIHTC
LIHTC support or supplemental aid
support.
for housing applications
M
6. Hold the $1,500,000* million in
City Council approved an agreement for
Housing Authority funds for an
Augusta Place on 5/2/2017. The City will
opportunity to leverage significant
purchase six units for permanent affordable
private investment and/or to
rental housing at $1,080,000. The City
develop/acquire low income
anticipates the building will be completed in
replacement housing.
August 2019.
*$2.5 million was available, $1.0
City Council approved a developer's agreement
million committed to the Chauncey
for the Chauncey building on 6/18/2015. The
units, for a balance of $1.5 million)
City will purchase five units at $1,000,000 for
affordable rental housing. The City anticipates
the building will be completed in August 2019.
There is approximately $420,000 remaining to
develop/acquire low income replacement
housing.
0
7. Consider an annexation policy that
Completed 7/17/2018.
provides for affordable housing
10% of total units affordable for preferably 20
contributions.
years or more.
®
8. Consider use of TIF on a case by
Development agreement for Foster Road
case basis to support residential
approved 7/17/18. Anticipated to generate $2-3
development and/or annexation
million for affordable housing over 10 years.
through the provision of public
infrastructure and capture the
Staff evaluating multiple possibilities including
required LMI set-aside for use
McCollister and Forest View Drive.
throughout the community (Ex:
McCollister and Foster Road).
❑
9. Consider regulatory changes to
• Parking waived in Riverfront Crossings for
City Code:
affordable housing, June 2016.
• Waive parking requirements for
affordable housing units.
Staff initiated a review by soliciting input
• Review possible changes to the
from the Home Builders Association and the
multi -family design standards for
Johnson County Affordable Homes
all units in an effort to reduce cost
Coalition. Recommendations will be
and expedite approvals.
forthcoming in early 2099.
• Eliminate minimum size
requirements for PUDs.
• Increase allowable bedrooms
from 3 to 4 outside the University
Impact Area (keep occupancy at 3
unrelated).
November 15, 2018
Page 3
Should you have any questions about the strategies or their status, please contact me at
319.356.5244 or tracy-hightshoe@iowa-city.org.
• Permit more building types by
right as opposed to requiring a
PUD process (density, multiplex
units, cottage clusters, etc.).
®
10. Pursue a form -based code for the
The consultant analysis of a form based code
Alexander Elementary neighborhood
was completed in September 2017. NDS staff
and the Northside.
anticipates entering contract with Opticos in
December 2018.
®
11. Strategically seek LIHTC projects
RFP scheduled annually.
through an RFP process overseen by
• Awarded the Del Ray Ridge LP project
the HCDC (in conjunction with #5).
$330,000 (FY17 & 18 funds). 33 units (29
LIHTC, 4 market rate units) at 628 S.
Dubuque Street.
Awarded IC Housing Group, LLC $200,000
(FY19 funds). 36 units (32 LIHTC, 4 market
rate units) located off Herbert Hoover
Highway, east of Eastbury Street.
❑
12. Create a committee of staff,
Committee of six community members and City
developers and other interested
staff formed to review tax exemption
stakeholders to determine the viability
possibilities. First meeting held 1/17/17. Staff
and potential parameters of a tax
anticipates a recommendation for Council in
abatement program that would
early 2019.
support affordable housing.
M
13. Exempt the Riverfront Crossings
Completed 4/2017
from the Affordable Housing Location
Model (AHLM) and consider
modifications to reduce size of
restricted areas and/or account for
neighborhood densities (consider
University Impacted and Downtown
neighborhoods for exclusion as well).
®
14. Tenant Displacement
Completed 10/2017
Council approval of major site
plans when 12 or more
households will be displaced and
there is no accompanying
rezoning.
• Such applications would require
a transition plan to better inform
residents and the public (requires
a comprehensive plan and a site
plan ordinance amendment).
®
15. Rent abatement for emergency
Completed 10/2017
orders when vacation of property is
not necessary
• Increase education about
housing code violations and how
to report.
Should you have any questions about the strategies or their status, please contact me at
319.356.5244 or tracy-hightshoe@iowa-city.org.
Item Number: 7.
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CITY Ok IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
November 15, 2018
Letter from State Historian, State Historical Society of Iowa to Historic
Preservation Planner: First Unitarian Church
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Letter from State Historian First Unitarian Church
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF
CULTURAL AFFAIRS
CHRIS KRAMER, ACTING DIRECIOR
November 9, 2018
Jessica Bristow, Kevin Boyd
Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission
Jessica-Bristowtcbiowa-citv.org, kevinmbovdCcDgmail.com
Via Email
RE: First Unitarian Church
Dear Friends:
KIM REYNOLDS. GOVERNOR
ADAM GREGG. LT. GOVERNOR
We are pleased to inform you that the above named property, which is located within your community, was
listed in the National Register of Historic Places effective October 5, 2018.
Listing in the National Register provides the following benefits:
Consideration in the planning for Federal, federally licensed, and federally assisted projects. Section
106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 requires Federal agencies allow the Advisory
Council on Historic Preservation an opportunity to comment on projects affecting historic properties
listed in the National Register. For further information please refer to 36 CFR 800.
Eligibility for Federal tax benefits. If a property is listed in the National Register, certain Federal tax
provisions may apply. The Tax Reform Act of 1986 revises the historic preservation tax incentives
authorized by Congress in the Tax Reform Act of 1976, the Revenue Act of 1978, the Tax Treatment
Extension Act of 1980, the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, and Tax Reform Act of 1984, and as
of January 1, 1987, provides for a 20 percent investment tax credit with a full adjustment to basis for
rehabilitating historic commercial, industrial, and rental residential buildings. The former 15 percent and
20 percent investment Tax Credits (ITCs) for rehabilitations of older commercial buildings are combined
into a single 10 percent ITC for commercial or industrial buildings built before 1936. The Tax Treatment
Extension Act of 1980 provides Federal tax deductions for charitable contributions for conservation
purposes of partial interests in historically important land areas or structures. For further information
please refer to 36 CFR 67 and Treasury Regulation Sections 1.48-12 (ITCs) and 1.170A-14 (charitable
contributions).
Consideration of historic values in the decision to issue a surface coal mining permit where coal is
located, in accord with the Surface Mining and Control Act of 1977. For further information, please
refer to 30 CFR 700 et seq.
Qualification for Federal and State grants for historic preservation when funds are available.
Eligibility for State Tax Credits for rehabilitation. Properties listed on the National Register, eligible for
listing on the National Register or Barns constructed before 1934 are eligible to apply for a 25 percent
state tax credit for rehabilitation. The cost of a 24 -month qualified rehabilitation project would exceed
either $25,000 or 25 percent of the fair market value for a residential property or barn less the land
before rehabilitation - whichever is less. For commercial properties, the rehabilitation project would
STATE HIST'ORICAI BUILDING • 600 F LOCUST Si, • uES MOINES. 1A 70319 ,15.1ti1.51I I • IOWACUOURE GOV
exceed 50 percent of the assessed value of the property less the land before rehabilitation - whichever
is less. The State Historic Preservation office must approve the rehabilitation work before an amount of
tax credits will be reserved for your project. There are limited credits available each year. Please see
the Iowa SPHO website for further information at https:Hiowaculture.gov/history/preservation/tax-
incentives.
Sincerely,
Laura Sadowsky
State Historian
State Historical Society of Iowa
IOWA DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS
SIAIL FI ISIORICAL BUILDING • 600 E. LOCUST S1 • DES MOINES, IA 50319 • 515.281.5111 • IOWACULIURE.GOV
Item Number: 8.
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
November 15, 2018
Civil Service Entrance Examination: Animal Services Officer
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Civil Service Animal Services Officer
I � 1
V7r -f
=j4 1 q�
-
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(3 t 9) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
www.tcgov.org
November 9, 2018
TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council
RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination -- Animal Services Officer
Under the authority of the Civil Service Commission of Iowa City, Iowa, I do hereby
certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Animal Services
Officer.
Jonte Thornton
IOWA CITY CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Melis a Jensen
M
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,.
`fir,
Item Number: 9.
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CITY Ok 10WA CITY
www.icgov.org
November 15, 2018
Airport Commission: October 18
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Airport Commission October 18
October 18, 2018
Page 1
MINUTES
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
OCTOBER 18, 2018 — 6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Minnetta Gardinier, Derek LaBrie, Christopher Lawrence
Members Absent: Warren Bishop, Robert Libby
Staff Present: Eric Goers, Michael Tharp
Others Present: Todd Allyn, Toby Myers, Melissa Underwood, Bob Cohrs
DRAFT
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None.
DETERMINE QUORUM:
The meeting was called to order at 6:01 P.M. by Acting Chair/Secretary Lawrence.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Members first reviewed the minutes of the September 26, 2018, meeting. LaBrie moved to
accept the minutes of the September 26, 2018, meeting, as presented. Lawrence
seconded the motion. The motion carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
City Attorney Goers noted at this time that with the absence of the Chair, Bob Libby, they should
approve temporary Chair and Secretary. Lawrence, as Secretary, became the Acting Chair and
Gardinier volunteered to be Acting Secretary. Lawrence moved that he serve as Acting
Chair and that Gardinier then serve as Acting Secretary. LaBrie seconded the motion.
The motion carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/ACTION:
a. FAA/IDOT Projects: AECOM / David Hughes
L Obstruction Mitigation — Tharp noted that Hughes is not present this
evening but that Todd Allyn with AECOM is here instead. Continuing,
Tharp noted that he was part of a conference call with the FAA earlier in
the week, in regards to this project. He stated that the FAA is doing some
research in regards to the City's zoning ordinances, before moving
forward with this. Allyn stated that the FAA was requesting permanent
October 18, 2018
Page 2
easements for all of the properties affected in this project. Goers further
explained what the `permanent easement' issue entails and why this is
being further investigated. He then responded to Member questions and
concerns regarding the City's policies and how the Airport might handle
such matters in the future.
ii. North T -Hangar Restroom — Tharp stated that this project is now
complete and staff is recommending that the Commission accept it as
such.
1. Consider a resolution accepting project as complete —
Lawrence moved to accept the project as complete, with
Resolution #A18-08. Gardinier seconded the motion. The
motion carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
iii. Terminal Apron Rehab — Tharp stated that they are currently waiting for
the State to get back with them on the grant. The plan would be to do
design over the winter, with construction in the spring. Allyn stated that
they will definitely work with Jet Air on the phasing of this project.
iv. FAA Supplemental AIP Program — Tharp stated that this program is due
to Congress giving the FAA an extra $1 billion. He briefly noted the rules
that apply to the use of these funds. He stated that staff is proposing to
apply for three projects — the larger apron expansion, the parallel taxiway,
and the runway rehab program. If awarded, the grants under this
program are 100%. Allyn further clarified what the program calls out for in
projects. He asked Members what their thoughts were on the three
proposed ones. The Commission talked about these projects at some
length, especially from a safety perspective. Increased traffic was
another area of discussion, as the Airport continues to see its numbers
increase.
b. FBO / Flight Training Reports
i. Jet Air — Toby Myers with Jet Air shared the monthly maintenance
reports with Members. He stated that they did a lot of mowing in
September and October. As for flight training, he noted that business
continues to increase. As of last night, they were at 98.5 hours of
instruction just in October, and with several more today, they are up to
102-103. Myers noted that the Great Plains Air Expo that was held last
week had a good turnout for a daytime event. Continuing, Myers stated
that they added four new charter pilots in the last several weeks.
C. Airport Operations
i. Management
1. Airport Viewing Area — Tharp reported that this project is about
95% done. He added that the kiosks have been installed now.
2. 2019-2023 Consultant Selection RFQ — Tharp stated that every
five years they go through a process to select an engineering firm
to provide consulting services for the Airport. The FAA has to
then give their blessing to whomever is selected. Tharp gave
Members some insight into the process and what they can expect
as they move forward. He noted that the way he has the dates set
up currently, everything would culminate at the December
Commission meeting. Discussion continued on this process, with
October 18, 2018
Page 3
Tharp stating that his goal would be to push the RFQ out to the
public by November 1St, giving them about a month to respond.
LaBrie stated that he will be out of the country for the December
meeting but that he is okay with moving ahead as discussed.
Members then briefly talked about the review subcommittee,
which would be involved in reviewing the applications received,
and the timeline to complete this process. Tharp will let Members
know of any special meeting needs.
3. Consider a resolution setting a public hearing for a ground
lease with Westside Automotive LLC — Goers spoke to
Members about the proposed lease, which was previously talked -
about in Executive Session. He reminded Members of this
session and what was discussed there, noting that what he has
come back with is $600 per month for leasing the entire parcel, for
a five-year term, with a second five-year term tenant option with a
CPI escalator. The need for a public hearing is due to the fact that
the lease is more than three -years in length. LaBrie moved to
consider Resolution #A18-09 as discussed. Lawrence moved
to second the motion. The motion carried 3-0, Bishop and
Libby absent.
ii. Zoning Code — Tharp noted that while updating the Airport master plan
they had discussed the need to also update the zoning code to reflect any
changes. He stated that he has obtained quotes from several firms that
would assist them in doing this zoning code review and update, and Short
Elliot Hendrickson Inc. is the recommended bid to go with. Melissa
Underwood then spoke with the Commission, giving clarity to what is
being proposed under this change.
1. Consider a resolution approving a contract with Short Elliot
Hendrickson Inc. - Lawrence moved to approve Resolution
#A18-10 approving contract with Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc.
per discussion. LaBrie seconded the motion. The motion
carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
iii. Budget — Tharp noted that the subcommittee has met to review the FY20
budget. He stated that he worked with several City departments, as well.
He spoke to some of the budget items being included for FY20 and stated
that what is being proposed is an operating budget with revenues of just
over $363,000 and expenses of $387,000. Therefore a request is being
made of the City for $24,000 worth of operational support. Tharp stated
that they have roughly $120,000 of cash that is usable, with $100,000 in
emergency reserve. Gardinier then asked for some clarification from
Tharp on certain budget items. Lawrence moved to submit the FY20
budget as presented. LaBrie seconded the motion. The motion
carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
iv. Events — Tharp stated that he had nothing at this time. Members briefly
talked about annual events, such as Young Eagles, and also about
getting new events to come to the Airport. Gardinier spoke to the balloon
events and if they would want to contact any of those groups.
d. Commission Members' Reports — Gardinier shared that she flew to Canada
this past weekend. The Air Race Classic goes into Canada this next year and
she is checking out the various stops.
October 18, 2018
Page 4
e. Staff Report — Tharp stated that he will be out of the office next Friday. He then
shared that the fifth Member of the Airport Commission has been appointed —
Warren Bishop. He is expected at the next meeting, according to Tharp.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING FOR:
The next regular meeting of the Airport Commission will be held on Thursday, November 15,
2018, at 6:00 P.M. in the Airport Terminal Building.
ADJOURN:
Lawrence moved to adjourn the meeting at LaBrie 7:20 P.M. LaBrie seconded the motion. The
motion carried 3-0, Bishop and Libby absent.
CHAIRPERSON DATE
October 18, 2018
Page 5
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2017-2018
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
TERM
o
`
0
N
0
N
0
W
0
?
0
Cn
0
01
0
=
0
0
0
0
-i
0
NAME
EXP.
co
ao
W
00
co
co
00
0o
00
00
co
Warren
06/30/22
N
N
N
N
N
N
0/
Bishop
NM
NM
NM
M
M
NM
M
M
M
M
E
M i nnetta
07/01/19
0
Gardinier
X
X
X
X
X
/E
X
X
X
X
Robert Libby
07/01/20
O/
O/
O/
X
X
X
E
X
X
X
X
E
E
Christopher
07/01/21
Lawrence
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Derek LaBrie
07101122
N
N
N
NM
NM
NM
M
M
NM
M
X
X
X
X
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time