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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-05-19 Bd Comm minutesIOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION TUESDAY, March 24, 2009 LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL 2b 1 Members Present: Newman Abuissa, Dianne Day, Wangui Gathua, Dell Briggs, Yolanda Spears, Eric Kusiak, Martha Lubaroff. Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers. Call to Order Briggs called the meeting to order at 18:08 p.m. Recommendations to Council (Become effective only after separate Council action) Consideration of the Minutes of the February 24, 2009 Meeting Motion: Kusiak, seconded Lubaroff. Minutes approved 6-0. Meeting Day and Time Commissioners decided to move the week in which they meet from the fourth Tuesday of each month to the third Tuesday of each month. Motion: Lubaroff, seconded Gathua. Passed: 6-0. Programming 2009 The Town Hall meeting has been temporarily postponed until a member of the subcommittee hears from the presenter. Abuissa will serve as master of ceremonies for the Youth Awards and Spears will present recipients with their Certificates of Appreciation. Building Blocks will be held on April 28th. Commissioners are asked to attend. Commissioners will begin to compile a list of possible keynote speakers for the Breakfast. The Commission will offer to co-sponsor Creating Community being held later in April. Motion: Abuissa, seconded Kusiak. Passed:''?-0. Kusiak, Lubaroff, Day and Briggs will serve on a subcommittee to help plan Ftomelessness Awareness week. Reports of Commissioners Gathua reported that she will be recognized on April 1st at the Annual Tribute to Women sponsored by the University of Iowa. The recognition is for her work in Civil Rights both locally and abroad. Abuissa mentioned an article in the CR Gazette (3-24-09) that reported the Israel Defense Forces condemned T-shirts worn by soldiers that depict scenes of violence against Palestinians. Day reminded Commissioners of the Embracing Tolerance and Diversity Series being held in the afternoon and the evening in March and April. Bowers informed Commissioner's that Kross resigned her Commission seat and will be replaced in Mid-May. Adjournment There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 19:26. Motion: Kusiak, seconded by Gathua. Passed: 7-0. Human Rights Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD YEAR 2009 (Meetinv Date) NAME TERM EXP. 1/27 2/24 3/24 4/28 5/26 6/23 7/28 8/25 9/22 10/27 11/24 12122 Newman Abuissa 1/1/10 P P X Joy Kross 1/1/10 A A R Eric Kusiak 1/1/10 A P X Dell Briggs 1/1/11 P P X Yolanda Spears 1/1/11 P P X Corey Stoglin 1/1/11 A A A Dianne Day 1/1/12 P P X Wangui Gathua 1/1112 P P X Martha Lubaroff 1/1/12 A P X KEY: P =Present A =Absent NM = No meeting NMNQ = No meeting, no quorum R =Resigned 2b(2 MINUTES FINAL PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION March 11, 2009 MEMBERS PRESENT: David Bourgeois, Lorin Ditzler, Maggie Elliott, Craig Gustaveson, Aaron Krohmer, Margie Loomer, Jerry Raaz, John Westefeld MEMBERS ABSENT: Ryan O'Leary STAFF PRESENT: Mike Moran, Terry Robinson, Marcia Bollinger GUESTS PRESENT: Elizabeth Cannon, Madison Ganz, Del Holland, Carla Susral RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: Moved by Raaz, seconded by Bourgeois, to approve the Iowa City Parks Recreation, and Trails Master Plan Final Report and Executive Summary as submitted. Unanimous. OTHER FORMAL ACTION TAKEN Moved by Bourgeois, seconded by Krohmer, to approve the February 11, 2009 minutes as written. Unanimous. Moved by Krohmer, seconded by Elliott, that a letter be drafted from the Commission to the City Manaser outlining the Commission's concerns about the process that was taken when deciding to move the Iowa City Farmers Market and the lack of their input. Unanimous. DEMOGRAPHIC SURVEY: Boards and Commissions were asked by the Iowa City Human Rights Commission to distribute demographic surveys to their members for them to fill out (voluntarily). The purpose of this survey is to allow the City of Iowa City to track the demographics of residents who currently serve on City Boards and Commissions. The surveys will be kept in a confidential file in the Human Rights Department. The information gathered from these surveys will be used for statistical surveys only. P & R COMMISSION MEETINGS WITH NEIGHBORHOODS (GALLWAY HILLS & WALNUT RIDGE IN APRIL) Westefeld reviewed with the Commission the discussion that ensued at the February meeting regarding this topic. In summary, Jerry Raaz suggested that members of the Commission begin attending neighborhood association meetings to provide information about items being discussed at Commission Meetings and also to receive information/suggestions from members of the neighborhoods. Commission members agreed that this would be valuable and asked that Marcia Bollinger, Neighborhood Services Coordinator from the Planning Department be invited to tonight's meeting. Westefeld reiterated that the purpose of these meetings will be to provide and obtain information while using the master plan as a guide. Parks and Recreation Commission March 11, 2009 Page 2 of 5 Bollinger reviewed the various neighborhood associations and their activity levels with the Commission. She noted that only a few are quite active, while many are only slightly active. Several options were discussed. For those active associations, Commission could be scheduled to attend their already scheduled meetings. For those that are not so active, perhaps there could be a regional meeting scheduled where several neighborhoods grouped together for one meeting where Commission Members could then present to several people in one setting. Another suggestion was rather than wait for the individual neighborhoods to meet, she could go ahead and schedule a meeting for this specific purpose. Bollinger will provide Moran with dates of already scheduled meetings who will email to Commission Members to determine who is available to present at those meetings. Bollinger and Moran will follow-up regarding other future meetings. 2009 WATER TRAILS GRANT RESULTS Kris Ackerson sent an email to Mike Moran informing him that they did not receive the funding for the water trail, however, they did score 8`h of 18 applications. The group that reviewed these proposals noted to Kris that this project would be very competitive with the Low Head Dam Safety Program, which has more money to offer than this program. These applications are due in September. Kris Ackerson will be invited to the April Commission meeting to discuss the next application process. CONSIDER RENEWAL OF AGREEMENT WITH DOGPAC RELATIVE TO OPERATION OF THORNBERRY OFF-LEASH DOG PARK AND REVENUE SHARING: Moran reviewed the current agreement with Commission, which will expire June 13. 2009. This agreement as written states that 90% of the revenue generated from the dog park fees goes to DogPAC. These fees are collected and provided to the City and deposited with the City Finance Department. On a quarterly basis, the City issues a check to DogPAC in an amount equal to 90% of the fees collected. This money is used by DogPAC to benefit the Thornberry Off-Leash Dog Park or development of other dog parks in the City. It was requested in 2007 by Commission that DogPAC provide Commission with an annual audit to show that the money is being spent specifically for dog park purposes. Therefore, Moran will ask that DogPAC present this information to Commission in April before moving further on this item. In the meantime Terry Robinson will also research the cost of materials, mowing, and other maintenance done by the City to present in April as well. REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE IOWA CITY PARK5, RECREATION AND TRAILS MASTER PLAN FINAL REPORT AND EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Moran noted that the Master Plan is now available for review on the City web site. The Commission needs to formally adopt the master plan tonight before it goes before Council for their adoption. Moved by Raaz, seconded by Boureeois, to approve the Iowa City Parks Recreation, and Trails Master Plan Final Report and Executive Summary as submitted. Unanimous. Krohmer noted that he was excited to see the strong support of a trials system in the plan and fairly strong guidelines put in place for future planning of such. Westefeld commented on the importance of keeping the Master Plan on the radar and asked for suggestions on how the Commission can ensure that we keep this operational. There was also some discussion among members regarding the relationship between the City and the University of Iowa especially in reference to the new recreation center that is being built. Krohmer noted that it is his Parks and Recreation Commission March 11, 2009 Page 3 of 5 understanding that this University facility will be closed to the public. Bourgeois said that he would speak with Harry Ostrander to clarify this. SAND LAKE UPDATE: Moran announced that the City Manager has withdrawn the Vision Iowa grant application for the Sand Lake project as it no longer qualifies since it will not be complete within the two year guideline. Moran further noted that the project will continue to progress, just at a much slower pace. The City will reapply for the grant in 2011. A question that will be asked of the Vision Iowa Board is if the funds that have been collected to date will be credited to the City when it comes time to reapply in 2011. In other words, we were encouraged to do some fundraising before applying this year for the grant as that would help our chances of being approved. We have done that, but now have to pull the application. Staff wants to be assured that we will not have to re-do the fundraising process at that time. COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Craig Gustaveson reported that the Downtown Association is planning some special projects for cleaning up the downtown. Gustaveson has been investigating the possibility of purchasing ashtrays to install outside of businesses. He will be working with these businesses encouraging them to buy them while also investigating other avenues for purchasing them such as grants or with the City etc. Gustaveson said that the DTA is planning aclean-up day in April prior to Riverfeast. Krohmer asked that perhaps the Commission investigate how many fines are written for littering and what the amounts are for these fines. Moran reported that the City Manager is distressed about this as well. Krohmer also asked if the bocce ball courts will be reopening at City Park. Robinson reported that they would. Krohmer encouraged staff to look at adding more of these to other parks. Krohmer asked if Engineering will be making plans for use of stimulus money before it is actually upon us. Moran stated that they are being developed. Moran reported back to Krohmer regarding his idea to collect parking revenue by possibly placing parking meters around areas such as College Green Park. Chris O'Brien, Parking Director, stated that if he was going to have to provide staff to maintain these meters etc., that the revenue would have to go to Parking. Loomer stated that she was happy to see newspaper coverage on the Sand Lake project. CHAIRS REPORT Westefeld wanted to publically thank Mike Moran and Terry Robinson for all of their hard work during this challenging time for their department. DIRECTORS REPORT Moran discussed with challenges Parks and Recreation staff is facing regarding baseball and softball fields this spring. The City has lost the use of fields A, B & C at City Park due to settling after the flood damage as well as the use of the University Complex until mid-May. He stated that staff will have to send Parks and Recreation Commission March 11, 2009 Page 4 of 5 some reservation requests to Coralville so Commission may be hearing some complaints from the public about this. Moran distributed photographs of the completed fishing pier at Waterworks Park. Moran discussed the schedule of events for the IPRA conference scheduled for the week of April 6. Members are asked to inform Moran if they are interested in attending any of the events. Moran reviewed plans for the Trueblood Family Benefit Dinner with Commission. Anyone interested in volunteering to help at the dinner please contact Moran at 356-5100 or mike-moran(a~iowa-city.or~. Elliott discussed her concerns with other commission members about the fact that the Commission did not have a role in the decision making process regarding the move of the Farmers Market. Discussion ensued. The Commission agreed that a letter be written on their behalf to the City Manager listing their concerns. They also asked that they be a part of the process when making a decision at the end of the season regarding the status of the future of the market. Moved by Krohmer, seconded by Elliott, that a letter be drafted from the Commission to the City Manager outlining the Commission's concerns about the process that was taken when deciding to move the Iowa Citv Farmers Market and the lack of their input. Unanimous. Moved by Gustaveson, seconded by Krohmer to adiourn at 6:45 p.m. Unanimous. Parks and Recreation Commission March 11, 2009 Page 5 of 5 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD YEAR 2009 NAME TERM r ~ .~ ~ ., ~ ~ ~ M ~ o ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~' ~ '" ~ o, N RES David Bou eois 1/1/11 X O/E X Lorin Ditzler 1/1/13 X X X Maggie Elliott 1/1/13 X X X Craig Gustaveson 1/1/11 O/E X X Aaron Krohmer 1/1/13 O/E X X Margaret Loomer 1/1/12 X O/E X Ryan O'Lea 1/1/10 X X O/E Jerry Raaz 1/1/12 X X X John Westefeld 1/1/10 X X X KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION FINAL 2b 3 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2009--5:30 P.M. CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, 10 S. LINK ST.-TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY MEMBERS PRESENT: Saul Mekies, Hans Hoerschelman, Gary Hagen MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert Kemp, Brett Gordon STAFF PRESENT: Mike Brau, Bob Hardy, Dale Helling OTHERS PRESENT: Kara Logsden, Susan Rogusky, Michael McBride, Phil Phillips, Karl Hillie, Lauren Chase, Tim Hau, Nicole Hosette RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL None at this time. SUMMARY OF DISC[JSSION Logsden reported that the library will celebrate 20 years of Ellen Buchanan doing interviews of prominent Iowa City residents with a reception in May during Irving Webber Days. People Buchanan has interviewed over the years will be invited. Liz Mathis will interview Buchanan. A new podium in Meeting Room A should improve the look of programs cablecast from the meeting room. Hoerschelman asked if the schools had responded to the letter included in the meeting packet. Hardy said Perry Ross called him and said that the school district has a staffing issue. They would like to have a representative but there is no one available to send to the Commission meetings. Ross said he would like to be kept informed of Commission activities. Hardy said he met with representatives of the local access channels to discuss Mediacom's proposal to move the local access channels to digital transmission. Loss in the number of subscribers who could view the channels was discussed. Discussion also focused on which, if any, channels might be moved and the possibility of combining programming of channels moved to a single analog channel. Coverage of live community meetings, government meetings, and public access was seen as a priority. Benefits for the community offered by the Mediacom proposal was also discussed. The benefits of Mediacom providing video on demand and Internet streaming capabilities also were explored. Mekies asked how many potential viewers might be lost if the access channels went to only digital transmission. Brau said that depending on the assumptions used it would be about 36% at this time and decline over time. Hardy said the impact is for a limited period of time as all of Mediacom's transmission will be digital by 2012. Regarding the Triennial Review Hardy said he is waiting on a response for Mediacom on issues related to programming. Hardy said he distributed a set of questions to the service and programming committees and said that members should contact him with any additional questions. Brau said the technical and financial committees are essentially finished. Mediacom has not responded to several requests for information regarding technical questions and if they do respond at some point that information can be incorporated. Hoershcelman said there might be issues related to the age of the plant. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mekies moved and Hagen seconded a motion to approve the amended January 26, 2009 minutes. The minutes were unanimously approved. ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS Hagen complimented Hardy for filling in during Shaffer's absence. Hoerschelman said the online complaint form is a real benefit to the community. SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS None. LIBRARAY REPORT Logsden reported that the library will celebrate 20 years of Ellen Buchanan doing interviews of prominent Iowa City residents with a reception May during Irving Webber Days. People Buchanan has interviewed will be invited. Liz Mathis will interview Buchanan for the library channel. Anew podium in Meeting Room A should improve the look of programs cablecast from the meeting room. CONSUMER ISSUES Hardy referred to the complaint report in the meeting packet and said that there were 2 service complaints and 4 technical complaints, all of which have been resolved. There were no calls received regarding the transition by the broadcasters to digital transmission. MEDIACOM REPORT Grassley was unable to attend the meeting. UNIVERSITY OF IOWA REPORT McBride reported that the University channel carried the dance Marathon live for the fu1124 hours. The first submission of programs from the Student Video Producers is now being cablecast. The students provided three hours of programming. More fine arts programming will be cablecast this semester. KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE O'Brien provided a written report. Kirkwood Student Productions continue to produce their monthly KSP newscasts and produced their first Kirkwood Men's and Women's basketball games of the season. KSP's second live basketball double-header games will be broadcast on Saturday, February 14, 2009. KSP continues to produce several short news features about activities at Kirkwood. PATV REPORT Goding distributed PATV's 2008 annual report and highlighted that there were 1,275 camcorder checkouts over the past year. The annual report contains statistics on editing hours, membership, the number of workshops taught, and programs produced. PATV is cablecasting new game show series called "The Smartest Iowan". The program is also available on the Internet. PATV has been invited to tape some of the readings at Prairie Lights Bookstore. About 3 programs every 2 months will be taped. The next Live and Local program will feature the National Alliance of the Mentally Ill, Johnson County. Development of the media literacy workshop is finished. It is in 5 parts. PATV is in the process of deciding to whom to offer the class to. The next guidelines workshop is Sunday, March 1 at 10 a.m. The next board meeting will be March 19 at 7 p.m. PATV is working with a University of Iowa honors class on a survey regarding PATV's operations. The class will be calling about 400 households. Goding distributed a list of questions that might be asked. Additional questions may be included. Questions from other access channels might be included. Hagen noted that PATV distributed a lot of information at the meeting rather in the meeting packet and asked if the contents could be addressed at the next meeting. Hoerschelman said the materials can be discussed at the next meeting and if there are any action items, they can be put on the agenda. SENIOR CENTER REPORT Rogusky distributed SCTV's the 3`d and 4th quarter 2008 reports. The intergenerational program is up and going. Jonathan Rattner, who is overseeing this project, will be making a presentation at the National Council on Aging conference in Las Vegas on the project. IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT REPORT Lowe provided a written report. Hoerschelman asked if the schools had responded to the letter Hardy sent and was included in the meeting packet. Hardy said Perry Ross called him and said that the school district has a staffing issue. They would like to have a representative but there is no one available to send to the Commission meetings. Ross said he would like to be kept informed of Commission activities. Hardy said he talked to Lowe and Lowe said she would send quarterly reports. Lowe told Hardy that most programming was months old, not years old. Hardy said he suggested that Lowe indicated on the written reports when the program was first cablecast and who produced the program. Hagen asked if the letter would be viewed by any school official higher the Ross such as the Superintendent. Hardy said he did not know. The letter was addressed only to Ross. Mekies said that in the past the Commission discussed getting students involved through a student club and making funds available to a teacher to oversee the effort. Mekies asked if the schools made any mention of this. Hardy said he did not ask that question and the schools did not address it. Hardy said the Community Television Service has proposed using funds for creating programming by all access channels but that effort has stalled. Mekies said that the school district is a large institution and that the operation of the channel can not rely on one person. Hagen said he does not understand why the schools cannot get more people engaged in the channel. The Commission cannot dictate to the schools or make the channel a higher priority for them. Hoerschelman said it appears there is not a standard workflow. Hoerschelman said the Commission needs to continue to monitor the situation and if it appears that conditions are deteriorating to possibly inquire of the school board their perspective. CITY CHANNEL REPORT Hardy reported that the Community Voice program taped two new mayor's programs. The Media Unit recently taped programs for the Human Rights Commission, the Alliance of Retarded Citizens, and the League of Women Voters Legislative Forums. The Community Television Service has finished programs for the Foreign Relations Council, AARP, Historic Preservation Commission, and the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill and the annual Prairie Preview. Hardy said met with representatives of the local access channels to discuss Mediacom's proposal to move the access channels to digital transmission. Mediacom will be sending an updated letter of credit to the City. ACESS CHANNELS AND THE DIGITAL TRANSITION Hardy said he met with representatives of the local access channels to discuss Mediacom's proposal to move the local access channels to digital transmission. Loss in the number of subscribers who could view the channels was discussed. Discussion also focused on which, if any, channels might be moved and the possibility of combining programming of channels moved to a single analog channel. Coverage of live community meetings, government meetings, and public access was seen as a priority. Benefits for the community offered by the Mediacom proposal was also discussed. The benefits of Mediacom providing video on demand and Internet streaming capabilities also were explored. Mekies asked how many potential viewers might be lost if the access channels went to only digital transmission. Brau said that depending on the assumptions used it would be about 36% at this time and decline over time. Hardy said the impact is for a limited period of time as all of Mediacom's transmission will be digital by 2012. Hardy provided a demonstration of digital broadcasting. Mekies asked about the transition to digital transmission by broadcasters and the results in those states that have made the transition early. Brau said the FCC received fewer complaints than anticipated and most of the complaints were problems with viewer operating errors or lack of information on how to receive a signal rather than any systemic transmission or coverage problems. When the transition is made nationally in June there will likely be more viewers impacted as the broadcasting contours will change and some people, perhaps 3%, in rural or mountainous areas will experience some problems receiving some channels that had previously been receiving. PATV CONTRACT Hardy said that he met with PATV two weeks ago to discuss renewing their contract. Another meeting will be held in a couple weeks. Hoerschelman suggested forwarding any questions for PATV regarding contact items to Brau so he can distribute them. TRIENNIAL REVIEW Hardy said he is waiting on a response for Mediacom on issues related to programming. Hardy said he distributed a set of questions to the service and programming committees and said that members should contact him with any additional questions. Hoershcelman said there may be issues related to the age of the plant. ADJOURNMENT Mekies moved and Hagen seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously. Adjournment was at 6:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Michael Brau Cable TV Administrative Aide TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION 12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD 01/01/03 to CURRENT Meeting Kimberly Saul Mekes Brett Castillo Terry Srnith Jim Pusack Date Thrower 6/2/03 x x x x x 7/28/03 X X x x x 8/25/03 X X X X O/C 9/22/03 X X_ X X O/C 10/27/03 x x_ x x_ o/c 11 /24/03 x x o/c x x 12/15/03 o/c o/c x x x 1 /2/04 x o/c x x x 1 /26/04 x x x x x 2/23/04 x o/c x o/c x 3/22/04 x x x x x 4/ 26/04 X X X X O/C 5/24/04 x x O/C x x 6/28/04 X X X 0/C X 7/26/04 o/c x x x x 8/26/04 did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet 9/27/04 X_ X_ X X X 10/25/04 X X 11 /04 Did not meet Did not meet Did not meet Did not Did not meet meet 12/20/04 X X X X X 1 /24/05 X X X X X 2/28/05 X X X X_ G Ha en 3/8/05 X X_ X X X 3/25/05 X_ O X X X 4/25/05 x o/c X X_ X 5/23/05 X o x vacanc X James Ehrmann X x Bebe Balant ne x 6/27/05 X x X_ X X X Michael Chritians 7/25/05 O X X X X 9/26/05 0 X X_ 0 X 10/31 /05 X_ X o/c X X 11 /28/05 X X X X X 1 /23/06 o/c X_ X O X 2.27/06 X X X 0 X 3/27/06 o/c X X John Weaterson X X 4/24/06 X X X X X 5/22/06 0 X x/o 0 X 6/26/06 0 X Vacant 0 X Nick Parker 7/24/06 x x x X 8/24/06 X x M. Wietin o/c X 9/25/06 X X x 0/c X 10/23/06 x X_ x o/c X 10/30/06 x_ x x vacant X 11 /27/09 X X X X 12.18/06 X X X X Brett Gordon 1 /22/07 X_ X X X X 2/26/07 X_ X X X X 3/26/07 Vacant x o/c x X 4/23/07 Vacant X_ X X X Hoerschelm an 521 /07 X X o/c X x 6/26/07 X X X X X 7/23/07 X X X X X 9/24/07 X X_ o/c o/c X 10/22/07 x x o/c o/c x 11 /26/07 X X X X X 12/18/07 X X o/c X X 1 /2$/08 X X o/c X X 3/3/08 X X_ X X X 3/24/08 Bob Kem x x_ o/c X X 4/28/08 X X X X X 6/3/08 X X X X X 6/23/08 X X_ X_ X_ 0/C 7/2$/08 X X X X X 8/25/08 X X X o/c X 9/23/08 X X X X X 10.27/08 X X_ X o/c X 11 /24/08 Did not meet 12/15/08 X X X X X 1 /26/09 X X X X o/c 2/243/09 X' x o/c o/c X Laura Ber us 4/27/09 X X X X X (X) =Present (O) =Absent (O/C) = Absent/Called (Excused) Final 2b 4 March 2009 NIINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION MARCH 24, 2009 ROOM 208 Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 4:00 PM Members Present: Sarah Maiers, Chuck Felling, Jay Honohan, Michael Lensing, Mercedes Bern-Klug Members Absent: Nancy Wombacher Staff Present: Emily Light, Michelle Buhman Others Present: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 16, 2008 MEETING-Honohan Motion: To accept the minutes as distributed. Motion carried on a vote of 5/0. Maiers/Felling. PUBLIC DISCUSSION-Honohan None. COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS-Honohan Maiers will write the web article for the March Commission meeting. Honohan will report to the City Council and the Board of Supervisors on the March Commission meeting. Felling will prepare the web article for the April Commission meeting. UPDATE ON ESTABLISHING A COFFEE SHOP AT THE CENTER-Buhman Buhman reported that Volunteer Specialist Rogusky has been working to recruit volunteers to staff the coffee shop in the Center lobby. Currently Monday and Tuesday mornings are covered by volunteers. Center staff is working to establish the coffee shop space as a regular fixture in the Center with regular hours Monday-Friday in order to build an ongoing fundraising mechanism for the Center. Rogusky is working with Senior Dining and local bakeries to provide fresh muffins and pastries at the coffee shop. Once regular hours and smooth operations are in place, Center staff plan to advertise the coffee shop's existence to the wider community in order to drive new traffic into the building. Lensing suggested naming the coffee shop and placing a sign outside of the building to draw public attention and traffic. Among the eventual plans for the program is the purchase of a coffee cart to further the credibility and functionality of the coffee shop space. Preliminary estimates indicate that a cart could cost up to $9,000. Buhman explained that such a cart cannot be a permanent Final March 2009 structure that is affixed to the building because of the regulations related to the Center's status with the national historic register. When faced with the question of moving forward on the purchase of the coffee cart now, using funds from the charitable giving account, Lensing suggested holding off until the coffee shop proves successful enough to warrant the investment. Honohan agreed with this approach. Maiers feels that it is too early in the life of the program to make a decision about a sizable financial investment. Felling expressed concern over the current lack of volunteer staffing. The group agreed they would like to see the program develop further, especially in volunteer recruitment, before approving such a large investment. Lensing suggested finding a local business to construct the cart itself, possibly allowing more of a custom design and a lower cost in exchange for public recognition. He recommended a business called Furniture Lab, which outfits coffee shops and conference centers locally. Honohan expects to discuss the idea again at a future meeting. ADJOURN FOR A MEETING OF THE IOWA CITY SENIOR CENTER FUND, INC.-Honohan Motion: To adjourn for a meeting of the Iowa City Senior Center Fund, Inc. Motion carried on a vote of 5/0. Felling/Maiers. RECONVENE THE SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION MEETING OF MARCH 24, 2009-Honohan OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW-Buhman Electronic Transmission of Commission Packets: Center staff proposed the idea of sending Commission packets electronically in order to save on printing and mailing costs and allow for more timely transmission of packets. Commission members all agreed that email transmission of packets would be fine, as long as hard copies can be made available at the meetings. Update on Use of the Current AARP Office: As previously discussed at the December Commission meeting, the AARP office will be converted into amulti-purpose office space in order to serve the various groups and aging services that operate within the Center. These groups work on a regular basis and require private space in order to conduct their services with a suitable level of confidentiality. The Commission packet included correspondence regarding the changes to the use of the space. Kopping has detailed the various resources that the Center is still able to offer to the local chapter of AARP, including meeting and programming space, audiovisual resources, display racks for distributing current educational materials, and limited storage space. Change in Severe Weather Closing Policy: The severe weather policy has changed. While the Center would previously close when the Iowa City schools close for the entire day, the Center facility will now remain open during the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM. However, all Center-sponsored programming will be cancelled in order to discourage Final March 2009 unnecessary travel in adverse weather conditions. Members will be able to use Center facilities and equipment, such as the computer lab, fitness rooms, and pool room, during regular business hours. Outside agencies or groups operating in the Center, such as the Nutrition Program, VNA, AARP, and Johnson County Task Force on Aging, will make their own decisions regarding weather-related cancellations, and make those decisions known to the public and Center staff. COMMISSION DISCUSSION-Honohan Honohan met with the City Council on the budget hearing. Buhman asked for volunteers to host the Newcomers Breakfast in July or August. Lensing and Felling volunteered to host the meeting in July. Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 5/0. Lensing/Felling. Final March 2009 Senior Center Commission Attendance Record Year 2009 Name Term Ex fires 1/20 2/17 3/24 4/21 5/19 6/16 7/21 8/18 9/15 10/20 11/17 Mercedes Bern-Klu 12/31/11 -- -- X Chuck Fellin 12/31/09 NM NM X Ja Honohan 12/31/10 NM NM X Michael Lensin 12/31/10 NM NM X Sarah Maiers 12/31/09 NM NM X Nanc Wombacher 12/31/09 NM NM O/E Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E= Absent/Excused NM = No meeting -- = Not a member Final December 2008 MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION DECEMBER 16, 2008 ROOM 208 Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 3:30 PM Members Present: Bob Engel, David Gould, Sarah Maiers, Chuck Felling, Nancy Wombacher, Michael Lensing Members Absent: Jay Honohan Staff Present: Emily Light, Linda Kopping Others Present: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM OCTOBER 21, 2008 MEETING-Engel Motion: To accept the minutes with corrections. Motion carried on a vote of 6/0. Gould/Wombacher. PUBLIC DISCUSSION-Engel None. COMMISSION ASSIGNMENTS-Engel Wombacher will write the web article for the December 16, 2008 meeting. DISCUSSION OF NEW WEIGHT TRAINING EQUIPMENT AND THE NEED FOR ADDITIONAL AEROBIC EQUIPMENT-Kopping Kopping reported that the Senior Center has ordered 4 additional pieces of weight training equipment. The equipment was purchased with funds carried over from a FY08 budget surplus. The total came to $13,936.63, and the equipment is scheduled to arrive sometime in January. Kopping noted that Curves closed and offered to donate its complete set of exercise equipment to the Center. The Center had to decline because of a lack of space, but several former members of Curves have become Senior Center members in order to access the fitness equipment. The aerobic equipment room, Kopping noted, has not seen any updates in the past 5 years. She specified a piece that the Center would like to acquire, a recumbent stair stepper. A model appropriate for commercial use costs $5,970 with shipping. Kopping requested a meeting of the Iowa City Senior Center Fund, Inc. in order to request these funds from the charitable giving account. 2b 5 Final December 2008 ADJOURN FOR A MEETING OF THE IOWA CITY SENIOR CENTER FUND, INC.-Engel Motion: To adjourn for a meeting of the Iowa City Senior Center Fund, Inc. Motion carried on a vote of 6/0. Wombacher/Lensing. RECONVENE THE SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION MEETING OF DECEMBER 16, 2008-Engel OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW-Kopping Construction Highlights: Kopping reported that the HVAC project has experienced slow progress, but the air handling units and new boilers are in place. System balancing and controls setting should take place this week. Certain areas of the building are experiencing erratic temperatures, but this issue should be resolved after the system balancing. The chiller work is scheduled to occur and conclude in January 2009. Future Use of the Current AARP Office: The Senior Center leases an office to the AARP on the ground floor of the Center. Since the renovation of the HVAC system began last fall, the office has been used for storage of construction equipment and AARP materials. According to the stipulations of their lease, AARP is required to staff the office for thirty hours per week in order to serve as an information resource for community members. For several years prior to the Center maintenance staff's current use of the space, the AARP office has not been properly staffed with volunteers and rarely have AARP members or community members been seen in the office. Kopping observed that the primary use of the space has been for storage of AARP meeting materials. Kopping discussed a need to provide confidential office space for SHIIP counseling, legal counseling, personal counseling, and the new ADRC program intended to provide comprehensive aging and disability service information to people of all ages. Each of these programs need to use an office on a weekly basis and could be accommodated in a single multi-purpose office. Lensing emphasized the importance of using the office space in a way that most effectively serves the needs of the senior population, a common goal for the Center and HARP. Engel noted that activities and membership at the Center have increased, and space is at a premium. Space could be made available for AARP informational services through the existing facility reservation process as needed. Engel suggested that Kopping meet with the chapter President, discuss the AARP's specific needs for office space, and see if an alternative plan could be developed that would free up the current AARP office for multipurpose use and meet AARP needs as well. Kopping noted that the Center would continue to provide display space for AARP's informational brochures on the mezzanine and the use of rooms and audiovisual equipment for AARP meetings and programs. She also said she would discuss with the HARP other options for on-site storage of materials and office sharing. Final December 2008 The Commission roundly encouraged Kopping to move forward with plans to terminate or modify the lease with AARP and pursue other uses of the office space. Coffee Shop Update: Light reported that Senior Center staff is working together on a plan to offer gourmet coffee for sale starting January 2009. The new Elder Services director would like to partner with the Center on this project by providing high quality muffins and/or other baked goods for the shop. FY10 Budget Reductions: Kopping reported that the Senior Center did not suffer any major budget reductions, however the City Manager requested for each department to cut 1% of their budget requests. Community Action Team Grant Request: The Community Foundation has granted an additional $1,000 for the project, in addition to the $2,000 from last year. COMMISSION DISCUSSION-Engel Gould suggested the Center organize instructional programming in the weight training facility, possibly with the help of instructional interns from the Health Coaching/Health Promotion program at the University. The Commission agreed that it is important to offer information and assistance to help users achieve the maximum benefits of the equipment, as well as avoid injury. Engel suggested that Center staff utilize room use records collected through our existing access card software to provide targeted information to interested members on weight training programs. Kopping would like weight room programming to remain free or very low cost. Lensing suggested an event for "cooking for one" with local or popular cooking personalities. Engel asked if the lapidary equipment has been sold and removed. Kopping reported that it has been sold and removed. City Council Report on October Commission Meeting: Felling reported that his report to the Council went well, warning them in advance about the chilly environment at Center. Commission Vacancies: Kopping has been pursuing various potential candidates for the Commission. Motion: To Adjourn. Motion carried on a vote of 6/0. Wombacher/Felling. Final December 2008 Senior Center Commission Attendance Record Year 2008 Name Term Ex fires 2/26 3/18 4/15 5/20 6/17 7/15 8/19 9/16 10/21 11/18 12/16 Bob En el 12/31/08 O/E X X X O/E X X X X X David Gould 12/31/08 X X O/E O/E X X X X X X Chuck Fellin 12/31/09 X X X X X X X O/E X X Ja Honohan 12/31/10 X X X X X X X X X O/E Michael Lensin 12/31/10 -- O/E X X X O/B O X O X Sarah Maiers 12/31/09 X X X X X X X X X X Nanc Wombacher 12/31/09 O/E O/E X X X X X O X X Key: X = Present O = Absent O/E= AbsentBxcused NM = No meeting -- = Not a member 2b 6 MINUTES APPROVED PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION APRIL 16, 2009 - 7:30 PM -FORMAL CITY HALL, EMMA J. HARVAT HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Freerks, Josh Busard, Charlie Eastham, Elizabeth Koppes, Tim Weitzel, Michelle Payne MEMBERS ABSENT: Wally Plahutnik STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, Karen Howard, Sara Greenwood Hektoen OTHERS PRESENT: Sarah Hansen, Dana Figlock, Tom Walz, Libris Fidelis, Peter Nathan RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL: The Commission voted 6-0 to approve amendments to the Zoning Code regulating Drinking Establishments and Alcohol Sales-Oriented Retail Uses and to establish minimum spacing requirements of 500 feet between Drinking Establishments and 1000 feet between Alcohol Sales- Oriented Uses. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:33 p.m. by Chairperson Ann Freerks. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: None. ZONING CODE ITEMS: Discussion of amendments to the Zoning Code to regulate Drinking Establishments and Alcohol Sales Oriented Retail Uses and to establish minimum spacing requirements between such uses. Howard briefly summarized the matter before the Commission. She said the goal was to reduce or prevent the concentration of bars and liquor stores in the community, particularly in the downtown area. She stated that the City Council had directed Staff to draft regulations with the goal of reducing the concentration of bars and liquor stores in the community, particularly in the downtown area. The draft regulations require a separation of 500 feet between bars and 1,000 feet between new liquor stores. Howard said the goals and policies of downtown according to the Comprehensive Plan and the Zoning Code support reducing the concentration of bars and liquor stores. She said one of the stated goals of the Comprehensive Plan is to encourage continued investment in the downtown and to assure its place in the community as a cultural and commercial center. She said in the Zoning Code it states that the purpose of the Central Business Zone is a high density, compact pedestrian-oriented shopping, office, service, and entertainment area in Iowa City. It is intended to accommodate awide-range of retail, service, office, and residential uses. Howard said there is a concern that the concentration of alcohol- Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 2 related uses such as bars and .liquor stores predominate to the extent that it is preventing a diversity and balance of other uses that ensure a healthy economy in downtown as envisioned by the Comprehensive Plan and the Zoning Code. She said that was also confirmed by a market study recently done for downtown. The consultants who performed this study said Iowa City needs to do a better job diversifying uses downtown, that there is too much of this single use. Howard showed a visual aid representing the approximately 50% increase in Class C liquor licenses issued for the area in the last ten years. Howard said the Staff recommendation is to: 1) Establish either a 250 or 500 foot separation between any new drinking establishments throughout the community in any commercial zone where they are allowed. She said that in staffs view either 250 ft or 500 ft. separation standard would be effective in meeting the goals of the City Council. 2) To establish a minimum of 1000 foot separation between alcohol sales oriented uses, i.e. liquor stores and convenience stores, but establishing this regulation just in the central business zones which are comprised of the CB10, CB5, and C62 zones. Howard said she would discuss the specific definitions of "drinking establishment" and "alcohol sales- oriented retail" if there were questions. Eastham asked about the reasoning behind proposed regulations which identify a establishing greater regulation citywide for drinking establishments versus just regulating liquor stores in the downtown area. Eastham identified the CN1, CH1, and CC2 zones as zones which would be regulated for drinking establishments but not for alcohol retail uses. He asked about the possibility of limiting the regulation of drinking establishments to the smaller number of zones predominantly found in the downtown area and if there was a rationale for expanding the limitation of that use in other zones. Howard said the request from Council was to consider citywide regulations. She said, therefore, the different definitions used to define what a drinking establishment is and what a liquor store is informed the decision to reduce the number of zones impacted. Staff defined a drinking establishment as a business: 1) whose principal activity is eating and/or drinking, 2) is licensed by the State to sell alcohol for consumption on-site, and 3) is open on a regular basis anytime between the hours of midnight and 2:00 a.m. Howard said by not using a "Percentage of Sales" to define drinking establishments the regulations would be easy to implement citywide as requested by council, would not require much administrative time, nor would they cause difficulty for businesses to be classified. Howard said for liquor stores, however, "Percentage of Sales" was an element of the definition and therefore could be burdensome for some businesses, including grocery stores, which would have to submit income statements to the city every year when obtaining a liquor license. She said that staff felt that it was a rather heavy regulatory burden to place on these businesses given that there has not been much evidence of a concentration of liquor stores in other parts of the community. Freerks asked if there were other questions for Staff from the Commission. As there were none, she opened the public hearing. Sarah Hansen, Associate Director for Education at the University of Iowa Student Health Service, spoke about research on alcohol showing the relationship between outlet density, alcohol consumption, and alcohol related consequences. She felt this information could assist the Commission when considering alcohol regulations. She summarized two research approaches: 1) Research can focus on a point in time and might look at the number of establishments or consumption, for example Iowa City in 1995, or; 2) Research can look at a community over time. Hansen referred to earlier staff slide showing increase in alcohol licenses over the last ten years as an example. Hansen said she will address first the relationship between alcohol establishment density and alcohol consumption, then on alcohol establishment density and the consequences, specifically its relationship to violence. There have been a lot of studies on outlet density and consumption and most have shown that in areas with greater density there is greater consumption. She said not all studies have shown that, and some research shows it makes a difference what role the establishment plays within the community. She said if the establishment is used mainly for cultural gathering or aspects of the neighborhood they may not necessarily be associated with an increase in consumption. However, she said, on the whole, research does support the relationship. Hansen said Iowa City was a part of a study that looked at Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 3 college towns and high outlet density. She said that study did find that towns with high outlet density experienced college students with heavier drinking, more alcohol-related negative consequences, and more frequent drinking overall. She said greater alcohol outlet density is also associated with higher consumption at younger demographics, though she noted there are other factors for that as well. Hansen said perhaps the strongest relationship in research literature is between high outlet density and violence and crimes in communities. She said there is a very strong relationship over time and as density increases communities can expect more crime of various types, including assaults, crimes against property, vandalism, theft, and more serious crimes. She said this has been studied in various ways, including zip codes, street blocks, city blocks, census tracts, neighborhoods and across all those measurements the relationship is clear that neighborhoods with greater alcohol outlet density experience more negative consequences. She said it is not known why that happens but research supports many reasons. Hansen pointed out it can be the result of the sheer number of people in a given area, the effects of alcohol on lowering inhibitions, and the area providing opportunity for perpetrators of crime. She said, as an example, an individual inclined to start a fight probably would not choose Sycamore Mall because it would be clear who the instigator was. In a downtown area, however, where many people are present, many are already under the influence of alcohol, and some individuals might already be loud, an individual might be more likely to engage in certain negative behaviors, and would possibly benefit from a certain degree of anonymity within the crowd. Hansen gave specific research examples of how outlet density increases impact crime. She said for a study of L.A. County including with populations over 10,000 a town of about 50,000 could expect with each additional alcohol outlet about 3.4 additional assaults per year. Similar research in Cleveland which looked at the city block level and multiple crimes found that every crime type increased as alcohol outlet density increased and each added outlet per block would add about 3.3 crimes per year per block. Hansen said there are also medical and health consequences to the density of alcohol outlets. She said a study in California determined that transports to Emergency Rooms increased with the density of outlets. She said that outlet density also changes community norms, what is accepted and what is not. Hansen concluded with what is still unknown about zoning and outlet density. She said the Center for Disease Control does recommend regulating the density of alcohol outlets as a strategy for addressing problems associated with alcohol use in communities but that more research is needed which looks at change over time. She said it is also hard to predict what improvements can be expected by a community at one level of outlet density by decreasing to a lower level of outlet density because density and changes in zoning take many years to take place and research hasn't been done long enough to document positive changes. Hansen turned over the floor to colleague Dana Figlock and mentioned that Dr. Peter Nathan was here to answer questions as well. Figlock, a graduate student in Clinical Psychology focusing on binge drinking, presented some of her master's thesis research. She said that while looking at very high binge drinking rates she wondered whether there were any specific social or contextual factors unique to Iowa City that might be associated with high rates of binge drinking. She said outlet density was one of the factors she looked at. She pointed to slide showing Class C liquor licenses issued in the C610 zone. In 1983 18 licenses were issued, in 2005 when she stopped collecting 43 licenses were issued. She said she thought she heard that in 2009 54 licenses were issued establishing a pretty sharp increase over 26 years not commensurate with the student body increase at the University of Iowa. Figlock said she also wondered whether increased outlet density would result in increased levels of alcohol consumption. She said because it was impossible to go back and collect actual estimates of consumption levels she used alcohol related citations issued as a proxy for consumption levels. She said she realized this would be an underestimate of student drinking since less than 10 percent of the student body reports having an altercation with police. Figlock pointed to slide showing liquor law violations, public intoxication violations, and OWIs, and noted that there is a sharp increase over the same period of time and that it is highly correlated. Figlock recognized potential increases in enforcement to partially Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 4 explain the sharp increase in violations in 1996. She pointed out, however, the concurrent rise in violations with alcohol outlets and says it is a significant relationship even after controlling for changes in population. Eastham asked to see Figlock's first slide and asked if the increase begins in 1999 or 2000. Figlock said the graph represents a time period beginning in 1983 and going until 2005 with the increase beginning in about 1997. Greenwood Hektoen asked Figlock to clarify what is meant by "outlet," if it means liquor stores and bars. Figlock said her research used Class C liquor licenses (which are the license issued to bars). Hansen returned to the microphone to clarify that her research went across types of outlets but the relationships she discussed with the Commission are stronger with bar licenses. Freerks asked if there were other questions. Eastham asked Hansen about research between outlet densities and violence and the difficulty of research to identify thresholds. He indicated he feels compelled to identify an allowed density. Hansen indicated that the relationship between violence and outlet density is very linear; with higher outlet density comes more violence. She said thresholds are difficult to figure out because they vary by community. She said what research has had a more difficult time with is establishing what improvements communities can expect with interval decreases in outlet density. She said research is still underway. Hansen emphasize that it is clear what happens with continued increases in outlet density. She said keeping density at a certain level would prevent further increases in negative effects associated with alcohol outlet density. Freerks asked if there were other members of the public who wished to address the Commission Tom Walz, Executive Director Uptown Bill's Small Mall and Extend the Dream Foundation, spoke to how his organizations are affected by alcohol establishments. He noted in the last few years two liquor stores have opened on each side of his establishment, approximately 30 and 60 feet away. He expressed concern regarding the impact of alcohol establishments on property values and the ability to sustain his non-profit program which serves handicap people and people in recovery in a convenient location to the Capitol House and Ecumenical Towers and low-income apartments nearby. Walz said in 2001 his rent was $11 per square foot but has been notified to re-new his lease will cost $20 per square foot which is beyond his means. He said the increase cost will drive him out and hurts the ability of the community to sustain diversity of businesses in the downtown area. He said alcohol establishments are the only type of business that can afford the high rents. Libris Fidelis, Founding Director lowan's for Economic Human Rights, supported the distance requirements for alcohol establishments. Fidelis wondered whether distance requirements will result in the rest of the city experiencing the same negatives consequences associated with alcohol establishments now experienced in the downtown. He noted, though, that the density downtown also gives the city a bad reputation. Fidelis said he lives at Capitol House and is bothered by the noise of individuals in surrounding communities that make Iowa City a destination point for alcohol consumption. He said spreading alcohol establishments out throughout the community will have less negative effects, including reduced "bar crawls." Fidelis proposed requiring establishments to sell food along with alcohol to be consumed on-site. Peter Nathan, Emeritus Professor at the University of Iowa, commented on the themes of alcohol consumption, alcohol outlet density, and violence. He said they differ in their relationships with each other. He Said researchers don't know and haven't been able to determine whether density increases consumption or whether increased consumption increases outlet density; there is a reciprocal relationship. He said what is not reciprocal, though, is the relationship between consumption and violence. Nathan said there is no question that increased consumption results in a greater likelihood of violence. Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 5 Freerks asked if there were any more public comments, or any individuals who wished to speak a second time. Seeing none, public hearing was closed. Freerks asked for a motion. Busard moved to approve the zoning code item for alcohol distance requirements of 500 feet for bars and 1000 feet for liquor stores. Weitzel seconded. Busard said he didn't know whether the zoning amendment would decrease the negative consequences of binge drinking, but it couldn't hurt. He said it is unfortunate that there is sufficient density now to support current drinking habits. He said the proposal is in conformance with the Comprehensive Plan and the Downtown Strategic Plan. Busard said he worries that at some point the downtown will reach a tipping point when the downtown will become an exclusive entertainment district catering to college kids, instead of afamily-friendly mixed-use district. He, therefore, supports the amendment. Weitzel said he also supports the amendment. He said rather than a specific entertainment district for use by college-aged individuals, the market study supports the notion that the general population wants a downtown available for all to use. Weitzel said the purpose of zoning is to limit those things which become a bad influence on the community. He addressed concerns expressed by the business community regarding the idea of a fair market value and rhetorically questioned if alcohol establishments are really those things why not distribute these economic centers throughout the community. Payne said she thought some sort of ordinance is a good idea but didn't know if 500-feet separation for bars is a good idea. She said she was fine with the 1000 foot distance requirements for liquor stores. She thought the same benefits could be achieved with a 250 foot or 300 foot separation requirements for bars. She asked about the protocol of expressing support for the idea while disagreeing with the specifics of the amendment. Freerks said a lesser footage could be discussed even before a motion to amend was offered. Payne said she wished to hear others' ideas. Freerks asked Staff what the effect would be south of Burlington, especially on Burlington, with a reduced distance requirement. Miklo responded that the immediate consequences of reducing the distance requirement to 250 foot would be limited. He said because there are enough establishments currently located downtown that a distance requirement of 250 feet would provide very few gaps to locate a new bar but that 500 feet may be more effective over the long-term if the goal is to reduce the number of alcoholic establishments in the downtown area. Howard said the area South of Burlington is an area of concern if the interest is to expand downtown into that area. She said density needs to be considered for this area as new development occurs in light of what has happened along South Gilbert Street. Howard showed maps illustrating the difference between the 250 feet distance requirements and 500 feet distance requirements. She said a reduced distance requirement would open some space for some new venues but then those venues would be required to be separated 250 feet. Payne said she thought there would only be room for one new venue south of Burlington with a 250 foot distance requirement unless the venue was located far enough away to permit another establishment. Miklo said the commercial area would potentially extend farther south. Freerks said the goal is to expand downtown south of Burlington Street. She said a reduced distance requirement merits conversation but that they need to look at the goal. Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 6 Howard said a member of the public spoke to alcohol outlet density along South Gilbert. She said having no distance requirement south of Burlington Street will result in an outlet density similar to downtown. Eastham asked about the map showing six alcohol outlets along South Gilbert Street. He asked for confirmation that at least two of those have been in existence for some time and that they were all bars and no liquor stores. Howard said she thought a number of new bars have been established along S. Gilbert. She also said there were two recently opened liquor stores represented on the map. Miklo and Howard pointed to three new alcohol establishments. Payne said one of the "new" establishments had previously been a drinking establishment. Howard emphasized that the market is there to perpetuate an outlet density south of Burlington Street similar to downtown with the absence of distance requirements between alcohol establishments. Payne said she wasn't suggesting the absence of distance requirements south of Burlington Street but was attempting to question what the distance should be. Miklo said 500 feet will be more effective, that 250 feet will be effective, at least in the downtown. Busard said he agreed with Miklo, that a distance requirement of 250 feet is only effective to the point of the Central Business District and that once the downtown is expanded new bars will be established. Busard said that with a distance requirement of 500 feet the area for potential downtown expansion is covered until Court Street. Eastham said he would like more discussion but is ready to support a reduced distance requirement if Payne offers an amendment to the Motion to reduce separation distance for drinking establishments to 250 feet. He said the difriculty is in finding a distance that doesn't allow any additional drinking establishments in the CB10 zone and probably in the CB5 zone since those encompass the downtown area without unduly limiting the location of new drinking establishments in more outlying areas. His concern is to reduce the unnecessary consequences for businesses. He said he doesn't disagree with reducing drinking establishments in the downtown area. Eastham said there is plenty of data to support that that is allowed by the Comprehensive Plan and that it is a good strategy for the community to pursue He said he questions whether this approach will accomplish the stated goal in a rational length of time. Eastham said he doesn't think reducing the distance requirement from 500 feet to 250 feet will compromise the goal of reducing alcoholic establishments in the downtown area. Miklo offered to add information. He said outside of the downtown area, for instance the CC2, development is less concentrated due to parking lots, shopping centers, etc. so business tend to be farther apart whether you restrict it or not. He said that due to the nature of things being spread out businesses are not likely to be burdened by a 500 foot distance requirement. Howard added that the definition of drinking establishment also only affects those businesses that stay open past midnight and doesn't impact every business with a liquor license. She said businesses, such as restaurants that serve alcohol and close by midnight will remain unaffected. She said it seems the preponderance of businesses that remain open past midnight are located downtown. Eastham said he doesn't have enough information to say for sure that a 500-foot requirement would not have undesirable consequences for businesses in other zones. Eastham moved to amend the motion on the floor to reduce the separation requirement for drinking establishments in proposed zones to 250 feet. Payne seconded. Payne said the 250 foot distance requirement will have the desired effect in the downtown area. Freerks disagreed. She said 500 feet is the appropriate distance. Freerks said there is a lot of territory that needs to be planned for and that the opportunity to address the issue now avoids having to address the issue in the future. She said she is convinced there will be a negative effect outside of downtown. Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 7 Busard said as we expand the downtown a distance requirement of only 250 feet allows greater opportunity for a bar to open. He said he would rather address it now rather than leave it to a future commission to address when problems arise. Busard said it also provides for stability for business owners that then know a distance requirement won't be expanded at some future point. Koppes said she agrees with Eastham. She said we need to look at the whole community and not just at the downtown. Weitzel said he is convinced a 500 foot distance requirement is the right approach. He said we are past the point where this issue should have been addressed. He said as a city we have tried other approaches without success and in the meantime more bars have been established. Weitzel said he doesn't think any bars will close in the near future because it would require the loss of the liquor license for over a year. Freerks called for a vote. The amendment to the motion to reduce the distance requirement from 500 feet to 250 feet failed 3-3 (Freerks, Busard, Weitzel voting against). Freerks asked for further discussion. Koppes addressed the distance requirements for liquor stores. She pointed to Uptown Bill's Small Mall and the liquor stores surrounding. She asked whether liquor stores could simply locate in CC2 zones, such as the one currently occupied by The Mansion on the corner of Gilbert Street and Bowery Street, and whether that would exempt them from the distance requirements. She said that by focusing on downtown pockets of alcohol outlet concentration could occur in unexpected places. Koppes said including only the "CB" zones in the distance requirements are problematic. Freerks confirmed that Koppes is interested in increasing the zoning area covered by the distance requirements for liquor stores. Koppes identified a number of CC2 zones along South Gilbert of concern. She said CC2 zones do not regulate liquor stores. Freerks asked if there was wording that would cover other zones within the intended distance of alcoholic establishments in the CB Zones. Greenwood Hektoen said language would probably have to be included regarding regulation in a CC2 zone. Miklo said liquor stores in a CC2 zone could be a provisional use unless it is within 1000 feet of "CB" Zone. Howard said it could be written so that the CC2 is regulated if it is within 1000 feet of a Central Business zone. She said it would need to be determined that that is the only zone within 1000 feet of the "CB° zones and that use would have to be made provisional. Miklo said one thing to consider is to vote on the proposal as is and a second recommendation that the Council consider an ordinance for any Community Commercial Zone within 1000 feet of CB5 zone. Miklo iterated that staff has not looked at that closely and would need time to determine how the regulation should be written. Freerks said it would be good for the Commission to proceed this evening. She said the Commission can revisit the possibility of a second recommendation once the Commission has determined its desired course of action. Eastham asked for clarification on why liquor stores are disallowed in CO1 zones. Howard answered that liquor stores are not allowed in CO1 zones because CO1 zones are intended primarily for office uses. She said that there are no liquor stores or bars currently located in the CO-1 Zone and it didn't seem like a good zone to allow them in the future. Miklo said liquor stores are not allowed because they are a retail use. Eastham said he would support the zoning amendment for distance requirements of 500 feet for bars, though he felt pained to do so. He said what he supports is the regulation of the number of drinking outlets to some reasonable number. Eastham said after listening to others' comments, he doesn't know what that number is. He said he knows the community is very interested in changing the use and conduct Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 8 of commercial establishments in the downtown area, and that is a laudable goal. He said he would prefer an approach that focuses on density rather than separation because that accomplishes the goal of reducing the number of outlets while giving owners greater flexibility in deciding where those outlets are located. Eastham said he has been unable to come up with a suggestion for a density approach that could garner support. He said another issue regarding the proposed ordinance is uncertainty about whether the number of drinking establishments in the C610 zone will actually be different ten years down the road because of the lack of an enforcement mechanism to actually reduce the number of establishments with the distance approach. He said he is generally reluctant to support zoning measures that are ineffective in accomplishing their stated goals. He said he will support the proposal despite reservations. Koppes expressed concern that by grandfathering the existing bars it would increase those property values for the approximately fifty properties currently allowed to sell alcohol. She said she will support the proposal despite mixed feelings because of the reasons stated by Eastham and the potential expense for new ownership. She said she would rather treat liquor stores consistently throughout the city instead of just downtown. She encouraged continued exploration of regulating liquor stores outside downtown. Payne agreed with Eastham and Koppes. She said she also has reservations but that something has to be done, and if 500 feet is the starting point she will support that. Weitzel said he considers the testimony from the University of Iowa researches expert testimony regarding the correlation between outlet density and consumption and the correlation between alcohol consumption and violence. He said he also considers the staff proposal expert advice and that he will support the proposal. Freerks said she sees the downtown with one dominant use that is becoming the most viable use and that doesn't help us to reach the goals established by the community for a viable and diverse commercial area downtown. She said there are no guarantees about the effectiveness of the proposal now or over time but that some steps need to be taken to repair damage being done to the commercial district and to address the fact that downtown has become a destination spot for drinking in the state. She pointed out that Council has asked them to address this issue through zoning. She said she was comfortable tying this issue to the viability of downtown and that over time a number of positive effects may result. Freerks said she was happy to see the level of community input and the involvement of the University of Iowa to offer information. She said she has struggled with some of the things that Koppes said regarding the potential increase in property value but said she doesn't feel the Commission ever guarantees the value of properties. She pointed out decisions made by the Commission often affect the value of a property but that the Commission needs to consider the community as a whole. Freerks said it is uncertain what use will be most economically viable in the future, that it may not be alcohol related. She said she does support the proposal. Busard said he wants to do everything possible to support a downtown with a mix of uses. He said he wants to be able to take his family downtown without tripping over the consequences of over consumption of alcohol and that the proposal is a very good step to achieve that. Freerks said all is not lost downtown but that this is a proposal that can strengthen the qualities of downtown. Freerks called for a vote. A vote was taken and the motion carried 6-0. Freerks addressed the concern of the Commission regarding what happens in the CC2 zones surrounding the downtown area. She said if the Council wish to address the potential of liquor stores relocating to other zones, the Commission feels such a discussion has merit. Planning and Zoning Commission April 16, 2009 -Formal Page 9 CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: March 30 8~ April 2, 2009: Eastham offered a correction to the minutes. Payne motioned to accept the minutes as amended. Weitzel seconded. The minutes were approved on a vote of 6-0. OTHER: Miklo spoke to property owner notification for the Northside local historic district. Miklo said the property owner complaining at the last meeting that he was not notified had in fact received three letters, originally to the address listed on the Assessor's website and later to his home address after Staff had received a call from the property owner upon seeing signs in the neighborhood notifying of the public hearing. Miklo said individual complaints about meeting notice often come from individuals attending the meeting. Freerks said it was helpful to know things are being done properly. Weitzel said he shared Freerks's concern because the breakdown in the notification process held so much weight with the City Council the last time the local historic district was considered. Greenwood Hektoen mentioned the Council on Monday April 20, 2009 will set the public hearing for the zoning amendment just approved by the Commission. She said at that time the moratorium will take effect the morning of Tuesday April 21, 2009. Miklo said there was some concern due to recent vacancies downtown. Freerks said she is scheduled for the next City Council meeting Miklo said Country Club Estates is still a concern to neighbors. He said the Council initially approved it 5- 2 on first reading then asked for further information regarding the wetlands and asked the wetlands specialist to attend the next meeting. Greenwood Hektoen mentioned the lawsuit regarding the Shelter House site plan against the Planning & Zoning Commission was dismissed. The dismissal has been appealed. Miklo said approximately 120 people attended the Southeast District Planning Workshop and that Staff will continue to keep the Commission apprised of the progress. Eastham asked if Staff could give a presentation in the future about the newly released JCCOG bike trail plan. Miklo agreed that it was a good idea and would look into it. ADJOURNMENT: Payne motioned to adjourn. Weitzel seconded. The meeting was adjourned on a 6-0 vote at 8:36 p.m. Iowa City Planning 8 Zoning Commission Attendance Record 2009 Ff1QMA1 MFFTIN(: Name Term Ex ires 1/15 Z5 3/5 M2 4/16 J. Busard 05/11 X X X X X C. Eastham 05/11 X X X X X A. Freerks 05/13 X X X X X E. Ko es 05/12 O/E X X X X M. Pa ne 05/10 X O/E X X X W Plahutnik 05/10 X X O/E X O/E T. Weitzel 05/13 X X X X X INFARMAI MEETING Name Term Ex ires 1H2 2/2 3/2 3130 J. Busard 05/11 O/E X X X C. Eastham 05/11 X X X X A. Freerks 05/13 X X X X E. Ko es 05/12 O/E X X X M. Pa ne 05/10 X X X X W. Plahutnik 05/10 X X X X T. Weitzel 05/13 O/E X X X Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E = AbsenUExcused Iowa Ciry Public Library BOARD OF TRUSTEES Minutes of the Regular Meeting 5:00 pm - 2"d floor Board Room March 26, 2009 2b 7 FINAL APPROVED Members Present: Thomas Dean, John Kenyon, William Korf, Thomas Martin, Linzee McCray, Mary New, Meredith Rich-Chappell Members Absent: Michael Cohen, Leon Spies Staff Present: Maeve Clark, Susan Craig, Debb Green, Heidi Lauritzen, Kara Logsden, Patty McCarthy, Elyse Miller, Hal Penick Guests Present. None. Call Meeting to Order. President Dean called the meeting to order at 5:02 pm. Public Discussion. None. Approval of Minutes. The Minutes of the Regular meeting of February 26, 2009 were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes was made by New and seconded by Kenyon. The motion carried 7~0. Unfinished Business. City Council Priority Setting Process. Four meetings are scheduled; the next meeting is scheduled for next week. Of note, the extra fire fighting personnel were removed from the budget and placed in the priority setting process. The Library Board of Trustees is responsible for determining the disposition of Library programs. Costing out each of the Library programs would be a difficult task and entail a large amount of data collection. Dean asked if the priority setting process is geared toward 2010. Craig responded that they are directing efforts to 201 1 and beyond but if there are items for 2010 that present themselves in this process Council may include those. New Business Appointments to the Art Advisory Committee. McCray asked if there were any other applicants and how the community was informed about the availability of positions on the Committee. Craig said that no one else applied for these positions and they were advertised. A motion to approve the reappointment of Karen Rushton and Connie Peterson to the Art Advisory Committee was made by New and seconded by Rich-Chappell. Motion passed 7~0. Library Board Policy #700: Community Relations. This is a regularly scheduled policy review. No changes to this policy were made. No action is needed by Board. Library Board Policy #701: Public Relations. This is a regularly scheduled policy review. Motion to approve the policy with the editorial changes was made by Kenyon, seconded by Korf. Motion passed 7~0. Staff Reports. Statistical Comparisons: 2008 IUPLA, 2009 LJ Index of Public Library Service (based on 1006 data). Craig believes that our statistics are quite favorable considering that ICPL has only one building. Martin averred that there is a direct relationship between the money and the product as evidenced in the Library Journal's statistics. CatalogPro Update. CatalogPro has been well received. Staff are still making modifications to this application so that some of the features of the local catalog will be available in its new incarnation, such as "new" materials. ICMA Grant Award. Five hundred and fifteen applications for the grant were received; and only nine were awarded so this was quite an accomplishment. The project, Green Iowa City, has been renamed eco Iowa City. McCray is impressed with all of the things we plan to do with the grant money. Jennifer Jordan and Maeve Clark will be on Dottie Ray's show on Tuesday. Departmental Reports. Adult Services. No discussion. Circulation Services. Discussion about remote book drops. Information Services. Discussion about computer use. New asked if there was a time limit on computer use; two 45 minute sessions per day with a library card; 30 minutes with an ID only. Development Office. All of the 140-odd Lincoln Loot containers that were distributed throughout the community have been retrieved. New asked if we were going to leave the little Lucite container in place in the Library. Both New and Debb Green believe that this kind of passive fundraising is a good idea. The penny smasher is a great success. In fact, ICPL is has the busiest elongated coin machine in the state of Iowa. Building the Collection invitations will be going out soon. Dean thanked the Library's own Trustee Spellers for participating in the Iowa City Spells competition. March Reader Report. This month's Gazette column was written by Maeve Clark and addressed personal finance. Craig informed the Board that she sent a letter today to the IUPLA Directors and the State Librarian about her priorities for state funding. The law that established the LSAs is more than 30 years old and she believes the need for their mission is no longer evident. All of their functionality can be performed by the State Library. Craig believes that the LSAs provide mostly redundant services, with the exception of their consulting component. Martin likened this to the 99 Iowa Counties, all of which have Supervisors. A small group from the City of Literature had a meeting on Tuesday. The group is pursuing a 501(c) (3) corporation. Tom Gelman has agreed to help the group with this. Readings. No discussion. President's Report. The Library Director evaluation formally occurs in June. Dean appointed Rich-Chappell, Korf and New to serve on this Committee. Board recruitment will likely be advertised in April. There are three vacancies upcoming: Dean, Korf, and McCray. Dean stated that he plans to reapply for the Board. Announcements from Members. McCray attended an International Monday event and was totally impressed by the number of people who attended and how great our programs are. Committee Reports. Foundation. The Foundation Board met on 3~4. Foundation endowments are down 19% or so. Rowat and Wenzel assured the Board that it could be worse. Mike Ott resigned from the Foundation Board. New Board members are Linda Farkas, Nancy Weber, and Dan Bontrager. Tyler Kruse agreed to serve a second term. Martin has been nominated as President next year. The Treasurer will also be Finance Committee chair if a By-laws change is approved. The Foundation Board is in the final stages of planning the live auction events for Building The Collection. Communications. Letter from Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation. Letter from Susan Thrams. Crpig's response included. She will continue to explore this and report on it again. Disbursements. The Visa expenditures for February 2009 were reviewed. A motion to approve the disbursements for February 2009 was made by Korf and seconded by Kenyon. The motion carried 7/0. Set Agenda Order for April Meeting. 423 meet as Members of Friends Foundation Appoint Nominating Committee Discussion Room policy Adjournment. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Martin and seconded by New. The motion carried 7~0. Dean declared the meeting adjourned at 6:12 pm. Respectfully submitted, Elyse Miller N N L Y.. Q L O oU m W J ~ O. 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