HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-04-16 Info PacketItem Number: 1.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
r
City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
_I
Subject to change
CITY OF IOWA CITY
April 16, 2020
Date
Time
Meeting
Location
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Zoom Meeting Platform
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, June 9, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, July 21, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
Tuesday, August 18, 2020
5:00 PM
Work Session
Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00 PM
Formal Meeting
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Work Session Agenda
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Work Session Agenda
Item Number: 2.
�_
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Strccl
Iowa City, Iowa 5 2240-1 826
(3 19) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
Electronic www-icgov'org
City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, April 215 2020
Zoom Meeting Platfonn
5:00 PM
Electronic Meeting
(Pursuant to Iowa Code section 21.8)
An electronic meeting is being held because a meeting in person is impossible
or impractical due to concems for the health and safety of Council members,
staff and the public presented by COVID-19.
You can watch the meeting on cable channel 4 (118.2 CAM) in Iowa City,
University Heights and Coralville, or you can watch it online at any of the
fbilowing websites:
• https://c1tychanneKcomA1ve
• https:/ www.voutube-com/usedc itychanneMiw
• https:Mhcebook.c omm/CityoflowaCity
If you have no computer or smartphone, or a computer without a microphone,
you can call in by phone by dialing (312) 626-6799 and entering the meeting ID
920-0582-9358 when prompted. Attending in person is not an option.
• Continue Development of the 2020-21 Strategic Plan [IP3]
• COVID-19 Update
• Clarification of Agenda Items
• Information Packet Discussion [April 9, April 16]
Council updates on assigned boards, commissions, and committees
Item Number: 3.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Memo from Assistant City Manager: Continuation of 2020-2021 Strategic
Planning Process
Iji f_Ta:I Lvi I NUTI&V
Description
Memo from Assistant City Manager: Continuation of 2020-2021 Strategic Planning Process
Z -atCITY OF IOWA CITY
NI.111m��
w��� MEMORANDUM
Date: April 10, 2020
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Ashley Monroe, Assistant City Manager
Re: Continuation of 2020-2021 Strategic Planning Process
On March 10, 2020, City Council engaged in its first strategic planning session at the East Side
Recycling and Education Center. Council Members shared their thoughts about high priority
items and agreed to discuss possible actions for the common themes presented. The Council
decided that the foundational seven existing Strategic Plan objectives were still relevant to the
City's current needs and goals. It was also determined that the numbers assigned to each of the
main goals should be removed to avoid perception of prioritization. Council successfully
specified priorities for five of the seven objectives and two objectives were left for discussion at
the April 21 Work Session.
Attached for your review, is a formatted version of Council's discussion from the first Strategic
Plan session. Each of the Strategic Plan objectives has a side by side comparison of the 2018-
2019 Strategic Plan and phrasing proposed by the City Manager's Office for Council's 2020-
2021 Plan. For several of the Strategic Plan headings and initiatives, Council agreed upon
specific language, which has been included. For a couple of other headings and initiatives, the
City Manager's draft suggestions attempt to capture Council's preliminary thoughts about what
each Strategic Plan objective might include. For example, some discussion was held about
walkability, transit, and accessibility, and whether the "Walkable Urban Core" objective could be
expanded to include these other concepts. The draft heading has been modified to, "Enhance
Community Mobility for all Residents" to encompass these ideas. As discussed at the first
planning session, the initiatives that follow each heading give more specific guidance for
accomplishing City Council goals.
At the upcoming Work Session, Council will be able to provide feedback on this draft and
engage in further discussion about the remaining Strategic Plan objectives.
Attachment.
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019
2020-2021
Advance Social Justice and Racial
Advance Social Justice, Racial
Equity
Equity, and Human Rights
a. Support organizations and
• Ensure City progress towards
efforts that provide services
increasing diversity of staff in a
to people experiencing and
manner that is reflective of
recovering from trauma and
community demographics
crisis related to mental
health and substance abuse
• Complete the phased effort to
raise the minimum wage for
b. Consider a policy to limit
temporary employees to
$15.00 per hour by July 1, 2021
city business to vendors that
pay all employees a wage of
. Continue emphasis on human
$10.10 or higher
rights -based training for city
employees, boards and
c. Explore expanded use of a
commissions, and the
racial equity toolkit within
community
City government,
embedding it within city
• Establish priorities and ensure
department and Council
resources for increased access
levels
and translation of critical city
messages
d. Consider elevating hourly
. Continue partnerships with
staff wages to $15/hour or
community organizations
more within two years
through the City's Social Justice
and Racial Equity grant
program
• Develop a coordinated effort
across City departments to
expand social and recreational
programming for special
populations
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019
a. Adopt an effective Climate
Action and Adaptation Plan
and ensure the next two
budgets contain sufficient
funds to facilitate achieving
its goal
b. Support efforts to increase
the reach of the Parks and
Recreation Foundation
2020-2021
Demonstrate Leadership in
Climate Action
• Adopt and begin
implementation of the
Accelerating Iowa City's
Climate Actions Report
• Track and effectively
communicate progress
toward reaching the
Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change's
(IPCC) carbon emission
reduction targets adopted
locally by the City Council in
2019.
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019
['Enhance Community Engagement
and intergo-vernmental Relations
a. Experiment with innovative
ways of engaging with diverse
populations in person and on
social media
31
c
Improve collaborative
problem -solving with
governmental entities in the
region on topics of shared
interest
Improve relationships with
the executive branch and
legislature by reaching out to
legislators and other elected
officials and working with City
lobbyists
2020-2021
Strengthen Community
Engagement and
Intergovernmental Relations
• Initiate an overhaul of the
City's website
• Pursue creative engagement
techniques with a focus on
reaching diverse population
groups
• Work collaboratively with
other local governments and
strengthen ties with our state
and federal elected delegation
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019 2020-2021
Maintain a Solid Financial
Foundation
a. Continue to monitor the impact of
the 2013 property tax reform and
evaluate alternative revenue
sources as determined necessary
b. Continue to build the City's
Emergency Fund
c. Monitor potential changes to
Moody's rating criteria and
maintain the City's Aaa bond
rating
d. Continue to reduce the City's
property tax levy
e. Maintain healthy fund balances
throughout the City's diverse
operations
Invest in Public Infrastructure,
Facilities and Fiscal Reserves
• Carefully prepare for significant
financial challenges projected
during the final years of State
property tax reform mandates
through FY 2024
• Strive to continue to reduce
the City's overall property tax
rate
• Evaluate Local Option Sales Tax
and other alternative revenues
that may be needed to achieve
Iowa City's strategic objectives
and reduce reliance on debt
and property taxes
• Develop a long-term plan to
improve the pavement
condition of City streets
• Initiate physical and financial
planning efforts to modernize
and expand critical public
facilities
• Consider establishing a cost of
development framework that
can help guide decisions on
how best to accommodate
future growth
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019
2020-2021
Foster Healthy Neighborhoods
Foster Healthy Neighborhoods
Throughout the City
and Affordable Housing
.�
Throughout the City
a. Modify the existing
• Continue efforts to expand
Affordable Housing Action
and adapt the City's
Plan to include new
affordable housing
strategies to improve the
strategies to meet needs
availability and affordability
throughout the community
of housing in Iowa City
• Consider and adopt the
b. Embed the "Missing Middle"
South District form -based
concept into the City's land
code and ensure it can be
development practices by
adapted to other parts of
adopting a Form Based Code
Iowa City
for at least one (preferably
two) of our neighborhoods
• Continue implementation of
the Parks Master Plan and
c. Ensure the next two budgets
complete an accompanying
contain sufficient funds to
Recreational Facilities
make meaningful progress
Master Plan
toward achieving the goals
of the Bicycle Master Plan
• Monitor and report
and Parks Master Plan
biannually on building and
rental permit trends in the
d. Complete an analysis of
former rental cap
traffic accident data and
neighborhoods
identify actions to improve
the safety of our roadways
for motorists, bicyclists, and
pedestrians
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
12018-2019 12020-2021
Encourage a Vibrant and Enhance Community Mobility for
Walkable Urban Core All Residents
a. Collaborate with the
University of Iowa on its
redevelopment of University
owned property located in
the Riverfront Crossings
District, and on improving
the quality, accessibility, and
use of the Iowa River
Corridor
b. Preserve important parts of
Iowa City's history by
considering the designation
of additional buildings as
historic landmarks, and, by
considering the creation of
an historic preservation
district for part of the
downtown after consulting
with stakeholders
c. Evaluate existing strategies
and consider additional
actions to address the need
for reinvestment in the
city's existing private
housing stock
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
2018-2019
2020-2021
Promote a Strong and R
Promote an Inclusive and Resilient
y "
Economy Throughout the City
a. Undertake a comprehensive
assessment of the current public
transit system and implement
changes to assure that the
service best meets the needs of
the entire community
b. Effectively market and grow the
local food economy
c. Through cooperation with the
Iowa City School District, Iowa
Workforce Development,
Ai •
KirkwoodCo_mmune ty College, oAAege,
Iowa Works, and others, increase
opportunities for marginalized
populations and low-income
individuals to obtain access to
skills training and good jobs
d. Work with Procter & Gamble and
impacted supply chain
companies, local economic
development organizations, and
labor unions to respond
effectively to the company's
decision to terminate its local
production of beauty care
products
April 8, 2020
Side by Side Comparison of 2018-2019 Strategic Plan and 2020-2021 Strategic Plan Draft
Demonstrate
Leadership in
Climate Action
Invest in Public
Infrastructure,
Facilities and
Fiscal Reserves
Advance Social
Justice, Racial
Equity, and
Human Rights
Enhance
Community
Mobility for All
Residents
Strengthen
Community
Engagement and
Intergovernmental
Relations
Promote an
inclusive and
Resilient
Economy
Foster Healthy
Neighborhoods
and Affordable
Housing
* Example of draft Strategic Plan objectives formatted without a numerical identifier. When the Plan is
finalized, staff will create an improved graphic design illustrating the concept that each objective
contributes and interconnects with other objectives to fulfill City goals.
April 8, 2020
Item Number: 4.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Pending City Council Work Session Topics
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Pending City Council Work Session Topics
L P i
�I AMI M;
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Minim-
CITY
CITY OF IOWA CITY
UNESCO CITY OF UTERATURE
PENDING CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION TOPICS
April 16, 2020
Other Topics:
1. Evaluate need for a Local Option Sales Tax (LOST)
2. 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.
3. Discuss alcohol usage policies in City parks
4. Discuss possible changes to residential zoning classifications to allow and/or require a greater diversity of
housing types (i.e. missing middle)
Item Number: 5.
�r
1P -
CITY OE IOWA CITY
www.iogov.org
April 16, 2020
Article from City Manager: More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget
shortfalls due to coronavirus, survey finds, with many planning cuts and
layoffs
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Article from City Manager: More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget shortfalls due to
coronavirus, survey finds, with many planning cuts and layoffs
More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget shortfalls due to coronavirus, survey finds, w... Page 1 of 2
Article from City Manager Fruin
The Washington Post
Coronavirus Live updates U.S. map World map FAQs How to help Flattening the curve Newsletter
Business
More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget shortfalls due to coronavirus, survey finds, with
many planning cuts and layoffs
Report comes as White House and states continue to battle over
how to address economic fallout
By Tony Romm
April 14 at 5:00 AM
More than 2,100 U.S. cities are anticipating major budget shortfalls this year and many are planning to
slash programs and cut staff in response, according to a survey of local officials released Tuesday,
illustrating the widespread financial havoc threatened by the coronavirus pandemic.
The bleak outlook — shared by local governments representing roughly 93 million people nationwide —
led some top mayors and other leaders to call for greater federal aid to protect cities now forced to
choose between balancing their cash-strapped ledgers and sustaining the public services that residents
need most.
"There's no question that the coronavirus pandemic has had, and will have, a major impact on cities of
all sizes," said Clarence Anthony, the executive director of the National League of Cities.
The NLC joined with the U.S. Conference of Mayors to conduct the early inquiry into the economic
effects of the novel coronavirus, finding many local governments are bracing for sharp declines in tax
revenue as businesses shutter, workers lose their jobs in record numbers and tourism grinds to a halt
Nearly nine in 10 cities surveyed — from smaller hubs with populations of fewer than 50,000 to the
largest metropolitan areas in the country — signaled they expect a revenue shortfall. Among them, more
than 1,1oo cities are preparing to scale back public services, the survey found. Almost 600 cities
predicted they may have to lay off some government workers amid the crunch. Local leaders in 1,000
cities said the reductions probably would affect their local police departments and other public safety
agencies.
The findings inject new urgency into a simmering congressional debate over Washington's role in
safeguarding cash -starved cities and states from financial ruin. Local governments generally cannot run
deficits, unlike the nation's capital, leaving them no choice but to slash spending or raise taxes — absent
more federal support. On Monday, President Trump signaled more federal aid isn't out of the question,
saying he is "certainly willing to look at that.
In the meantime, city officials have pointed to major financial struggles on their horizon. San Francisco
leaders anticipate a budget shortfall as high as $1.7 billion over the next two fiscal years. New York
Mayor Bill de Blasio (D) has proposed a freeze on hiring and $1.3 billion in cuts to his budget, citing
sharp drops in tax revenue in what's become the epicenter of the U.S. outbreak.
In Chicago, a city where lingering economic woes could exacerbate the downturn, aides say they
appreciate $470 million in new federal help — but added that they're still in "conversation with
Congress to seek additional aid," said Lauren Huffman, a spokeswoman for Mayor Lori Lightfoot (D).
Philadelphia leaders are anticipating difficult cuts of their own still to come.
"When there's no money, there's no money," Mayor Jim Kenney told local reporters recently. A
spokesman did not respond to a request for comment.
Lawmakers authorized $15o billion in coronavirus aid for states and large cities as part of the broader
$2 trillion package that President Trump signed into law in March. But that assistance — half of which,
Treasury Secretary Steven Mauchin announced Monday, is now available — comes with restrictions.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/04/14/cities-budget-cuts-coronavirus/ 4/14/2020
More than 2,100 U.S. cities brace for budget shortfalls due to coronavirus, survey finds, w... Page 2 of 2
Even when combined with additional help offered by the U.S. government, many leaders outside the
nation's capital also see it as insufficient to keep their cities afloat financially.
Federal legislators apportioned the money only to assist local governments with their efforts to respond
to the pandemic, not close the revenue gaps caused by the severe, sudden economic downturn. A senior
Treasury official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the planning, confirmed Monday the
dollars "cannot be used to cover general budget shortfalls."
Meanwhile, the money is funneled through states, with direct federal assistance only available to the
largest metropolitan areas, depriving less populous cities of federal dollars as they brace for their own
financial struggles. Even Atlanta — a sprawling major Southern city, but one with fewer than 500,000
people as of the last census — may not be eligible to seek federal funds on its own, said Anthony, the
NLC's leader. (A spokesman for Democratic Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms did not respond to a request
for comment.)
"The reality is that, if a city of 500,00o has challenges, [then] a city of 400,00o and a city of 300,000
and roo,000 has the same challenges," said Stephen K Benjamin, the Democratic mayor of Columbia,
S.C. He called on Congress to make more aid directly available to more metro areas, predicting his city
would face a "precipitous" decline in revenue.
Congressional Democrats — led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Calif.) and Senate Democratic Leader
Charles E. Schumer (N.Y.) — have put forward new legislation that would further enhance the aid to
state and local governments in need. But Republicans have fiercely resisted the idea, focusing their
attention instead on trying to boost loans available to small businesses. The result is a partisan
stalemate between House and Senate leaders now bickering from afar with their chambers out of
session.
On Sunday, the nation's top governors similarly called on Congress to act: New York's Andrew M.
Cuomo (D) and Maryland's Larry Hogan (R), writing on behalf of their peers, asked lawmakers to
allocate $50o billion in new financial assistance to "stabilize state budgets and to make sure states have
the resources to battle the virus." They added the money needed to be "separate from much-needed
fiscal stabilization for local governments," raising the potential for a much higher price tag if
Washington seeks to rescue cities and states in greatest need.
Tony Romm
Tony Romm is a technology policy reporter at The Washington Post. He has spent nearly ten years covering the ways that tech companies like Apple, Facebook and Google navigate
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2020/04/14/cities-budget-cuts-coronavirus/ 4/14/2020
Item Number: 6.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Email to Mayor from Massimo Paciotto-Biggers: Solar in IC
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Email to Mayor from Massimo Paciotto-Biggers: Solar in I C
Kellie Fruehling
From: Bruce Teague
Sent: Friday, April 10, 2020 10:45 AM
To: Kellie Fruehling
Subject: Fw: Solar in IC
Hi Kellie, please add this email in a information packet
Mayor Bruce Teague
(He/Him/His)
Iowa City City Council Member - At Large
1-319-536-1200
410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, Iowa 52240
WWW.ICGOV.ORG
rwr IOWA CITY
A UMEtCO C11V 61 IJTEtATUQE
Notice: Please be advised this email communication may be public information.
From: IC Climate Strike <icclimatestrike@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2020 8:57 PM
To: Bruce Teague
Subject: Solar in IC
r
FtlSlt
Dear Mayor Teague,
Thanks for all you're doing to keep us safe in Iowa City. With half my family in Italy, we've been concerned
and quarantined for nearly a month, and hope Iowa City can keep the virus curve flat.
I just saw that the IC city council voted down the solar project with MidAmerican.
To be honest, we are hoping you put out an RFP for city rooftops, taking advantage of 3rd party power
purchase agreements (like Johnson County did). This would not only support local solar businesses, instead of
MidAmerican, but it would work out cheaper in the long run. An RFP, of course, would cost the city nothing,
and you could gain a lot of information from solar providers.
We did a lot of research on this for the ICCSD schools, and it seems like the school board is finally moving in
that direction.
know this is a hard time, and health concerns come first, but I hope the IC city council brings this up
again. Thanks for your time and attention on this.
Stay healthy, Massimo
Item Number: 7.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I - Refuse
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I - Refuse
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City. Iowa 52240-1826
(3 19) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
ia,ww.icgcv.org
March 30, 2020
TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council
RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker I — Refuse
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 Maintenance Worker
I — Refuse.
1. Douglas Steele
2. Jacob Linnell
3. Joseph Rundlett
Iowa City Civil Service Commission
Ric Wyss, hair
Item Number: 8.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Statehouse News (COVID-19): Prevent the Spread, Protect Iowans
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Statehouse News (COVI D-19): Prevent the Spread, Protect Iowans
Kellie Fruehling
From: State Rep. Dave Jacoby <Dave.Jacoby@legis.iowa.gov>
Sent: Monday, April 13, 2020 1:08 PM
To: Council
Subject: Statehouse News I COVID-19: Prevent the Spread, Protect Iowans
Statehouse News
COVID-19: Prevent the Spread, Protect Iowans
As we continue to take precautions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, now more than ever it's
important to remember some of the guidelines that have been put in place. Two main guidelines include
practicing social distancing and staving home as much as possible. Limiting contact with others is the best
way to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Here are a few more reminders:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a
public place. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60%
alcohol.
Avoid close contact with others including those that are sick. Put distance between yourself and others
as much as possible, remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus.
Limit time outside the home and only go out for essential items such as food and prescriptions.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
ht of new data about
how COVID-19 spreads, along with evidence of
widespread COVID-19 illness in communities across the country, the CDC recommends that people wear
a cloth face covering to cover their nose and mouth in the community settings. This is to protect people
around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms.
If you wish to help with the production of protective masks, please be sure to reach out to your local
hospitals and health care facilities to ensure they are accepting donations. For more guidance go to:
https://idph.iowa.gov/Portals/1/userfiiles/7/Homemade%2OMask%2ODesign%20Guidance%203 28 20.pd
Cover coughs and sneezes with the inside of your elbow or a tissue. Then immediately throw the tissue
away and wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches,
countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
Many lawmakers are continuing to urge Governor Reynolds to implement a statewide shelter -in-place
order. State leaders believe it's important to send a clearer message to Iowans to stay home and prevent
the spread of COVID-19. This is the right step to flatten the curve, save lives, and get Iowans back to
work quickly.
Iowa Businesses Closed Until April 30
Another public health proclamation was announced last week to extend a variety of closures until April 30.
New closures also now include: malls, entertainment stores, tobacco/vaping stores, race tracks,
amusement parks, playgrounds, campgrounds, social/fraternal clubs, and door-to-door sales.
Here is a list of all businesses currently closed:
• Restaurants and bars (carry -out and delivery only);
• Fitness centers, health clubs, health spas, gyms, and aquatic centers;
• Swimming pools and spas, wading pools, water slides, wave pools, spray pads, and bathhouses;
• Salons, including all establishments providing the services of cosmetology, electrology, esthetics,
nail technology, manicuring, and pedicuring;
• Medical spas;
• Barbershops;
• Tattoo establishments;
• Tanning facilities;
• Massage therapy establishments;
• Theaters at which live performances or motion pictures are shown;
• Casinos and other facilities conducting pari-mutuel wagering or gaming operations;
• Bookstores;
• Clothing stores;
• Shoe stores;
• Jewelry stores;
• Luggage stores;
• Cosmetic, beauty, or perfume stores;
• Florists;
• Furniture and home furnishing stores;
• Senior citizen centers and adult daycare facilities;
• Tobacco, cigarette, cigar, or vaping stores;
• Enclosed malls, including interior common areas and any retail establishment that only accessible
to the public from the interior common areas;
• Social and fraternal clubs, including but not limited to American Legion or VFW posts, elk clubs,
country clubs, and golf course clubhouses;
• Bingo halls, bowling alleys, pool halls, arcades, and amusement parks;
• Museums, aquariums, and zoos;
• Race tracks and speedways;
• Indoor or outdoor roller- or ice-skating rinks and skate parks;
• Outdoor or indoor playgrounds or children's play centers, not including playgrounds in private
residences or childcare facilities;
• Public and private campgrounds; and
• Door-to-door sales.
Social, community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings and events of more
than 10 people, including but not limited to parades, festivals, conventions, and fundraisers are being
asked to be postponed or cancelled.
Help for Small Businesses
A new website has been set up with information for small businesses with helpful links on where to apply
for assistance by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). The website,
www.iowabusinessrecovery.com has helpful links to both state and federal assistance. Small businesses
can apply for a sales tax deferment through April 30tH
In an effort to help small businesses in Iowa, IEDA awarded $24 million in grants to small businesses all
across the state last week. IEDA received 13,745 applications from restaurants, bars, retail stores, and
other small businesses in every county in Iowa. The grant program was meant to be a short term stop-
gap measure while waiting for federal money for small businesses.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has several programs to help
businesses that have experienced loss of income due to COVID-
19. Details about all the programs can be found here,
https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-
o tp ions One of the programs is the Paycheck Protection Program. The
program is a forgivable loan that gives eight weeks of payroll and
overhead expenses to businesses. The loan is only forgivable if
employees continue to be paid.
Vote by Mail in June Primary Election
PAYCHECK
PROTECTION
PROGRAM
As Iowans are continually encouraged to stay at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, participating in the
June 2 primary election is not only more difficult but also more dangerous. In order to make sure voting is
easier for everyone, the state of Iowa will mail all 2 million registered voters an vote
mail request.
The state will also expand the early voting period to what it was in previous elections to 40 days, giving
Iowans more days to make plans to vote. This will allow Iowans to cast their vote as early as April 23 for
the June 2 primary election.
Iowans can expect to receive their request for an absentee ballot in mid to late April. You can also request
an absentee ballot on the Iowa Secretary of State's website at:
https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/electioninfo/absenteeinfo html.
Historic Number of Iowans Applying for Unemployment
Another 67,334 workers filed for unemployment in Iowa last week, the largest number in state history. It's
the third straight week of record setting unemployment claims.
Nationally, 6.6 million people filed initial claims for unemployment last week. Over the last three weeks,
16.8 million American workers, roughly 10% of the workforce, have filed for unemployment benefits after
losing their job. This level of job loss is unprecedented. During the previous economic recession in the late
2000's, 8.6 million people lost their jobs over two years.
Unemployment benefits have been extended to individuals who are self-employed, independent
contractors, non-profit employees or gig economy workers and gave an additional 13 weeks, helping
those who had previously exhausted their benefits.
To file for unemployment, individuals should visit: https://www.iowaworkforcedevelopment.gov/file-claim-
unemployment-insurance-benefits
Iowa School Districts Set to Decide Continued Learning Plan
As schools continue to be closed, the Governor and the Iowa Department of Education are calling on Iowa
School Districts and nonpublic schools to decide how to proceed during the COVID-19 crisis. Schools
have three options with a deadline Friday, April 10 to indicate what they will do. This is a local decision
and they are able to change their decision later.
1. Required Continuous Learning: Attendance will be taken, lessons offered and grades
administered. Exactly how the school will administer the required distance learning -- whether
online, paper packets, etc. -- is up to them and will be based on the needs of the students in your
school. School hours/days requirement currently waived through April 30. Application is required
for this option.
2. Provide Resources for Voluntary Learning: School will be offering programs that further
students' learning, but student participation is voluntary. Schools cannot give grades or take
attendance. School hours/days requirement currently waived through April 30. No application is
required for this option.
3. Nothing — If a district chooses neither option, they will have to make up the hours/days. No
application is required for this option.
On Friday April 10'h, the first of two surveys will be sent out to districts and nonpublic schools. The first is
an assessment of needs including how many computers do students have, WiFi capabilities, hot spots,
private sector partners, etc. The second is an assessment of needs on instructors capable of online
learning instruction. The Department of Education is planning on assisting school districts and nonpublic
schools with either of these needs.
Look for announcements from your local school districts on how they plan to proceed. Contact your school
should you have any questions.
Iowa National Guard to Help Combat COVID-19
Last week, the Iowa National Guard announced it is providing facilities and personnel to support six
Regional Medical Coordination Centers across the state as part of an Iowa Department of Public Health
and Iowa Health Care Coalition initiative to pool resources and aid in the sharing of critical information
across multiple agencies to combat the spread of COVID-19. The Iowa National Guard is also helping with
the distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) across the state.
Regional Medical Coordination Center vocations
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Iowans are encouraged to take advantage of the outdoors to get exercise and many state park trails are
still open. However, please be sure to abide by proper social distancing, including not gathering in groups
larger than 10 and keeping 6 feet of distance between you and other individuals. Bathroom facilities are
closed, so Iowans are asked to bring their own hand sanitizer.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is working to allow individuals currently staying in
campgrounds to remain if they are there due to contract work in the area or because they are in the
healthcare field and are distancing themselves from family at their primary residence.
Visit the state park announcement page and the wildlife management announcement page for specific
information on services available at these locations during the health emergency.
COVID-19 and Your Mental Health
Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, and throughout this COVID-19 outbreak it's required
social distancing, quarantine, and some isolation. Feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and stress are
completely normal. Here are a few strategies from the Iowa Department of Human Resources on how to
cope with these emotions:
STAY CALM It's important to not pass along or spread misinformation. Recognize when other people's
fears and anxieties are influencing your own emotional or mental health. Take a deep breath and reach
out to your support system.
KEEP UP-TO-DATE For topics that cause significant anxiety, people find themselves better able to cope
if they feel knowledgeable about the topic. Use trusted resources, such as the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov or the Iowa Department of Public
Health (IDPH) at https://idr)h.iowa.gov/.
UNPLUG Information, real or rumor, is a constant in today's society because of social media platforms.
It's important to have the facts and stay up-to-date, but when information creates a barrier to daily
functioning, it can increase fear and anxiety.
CONNECT WITH OTHERS Reaching out is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety, depression,
loneliness and boredom during social distancing, quarantine, and isolation. Use any resource that works
for you such as the telephone, email, text, chat, video conferences, and social media.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE AND STICK TO A ROUTINE Self-care practices are personal and can include
reading a book, listening to music, walking the dog, working on a project or eating healthy. During
stressful times, try to stick to your routine to maintain a sense of normalcy and to manage stress. Wake up
and eat meals at your regular time, and get dressed even while you are YOUR LIFE IOWA HELP LINE
staying at home.
WHEN DO YOU NEED HELP? When symptoms associated with your
anxiety have affected your ability to function in some part of your life, it's
time to reach out. Reach out to your healthcare provider and discuss your
concerns. Many insurers are covering telehealth for mental health
services at this time. To find a counselor to go: https://feelgoodiowa.com/
or https://yourlifeiowa.org . You can also connect by live chat, text (855-
895-8398) or call (855-581-8111).
Help for Iowans Facing Food Insecurity
A task force has recently been created to help Iowans facing food insecurity during the COVID-19
pandemic. The Feeding Iowans Taskforce is made up of various organizations including local food banks,
the Iowa Department of Public Health, the Iowa Department of Education, and the Iowa Department of
Human Resources (DHS). These organizations are working together to make sure food banks are full and
that Iowans have access to quality, nutritious food.
Along with the Feeding Iowans Taskforce, Iowa is currently one of four states
participating in a pilot project to allow online grocery shopping with an Electronic
Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Currently the pilot project only allows for online
shopping at Walmart and Amazon, but DHS is requesting an exemption from its
federal partners to allow online grocery shopping from any grocery store that
wishes to participate.
_-t',O BAN K
Finally, federal legislation increased SNAP benefits for current and newly eligible
applicants. DHS will automatically increase these benefits to the maximum
allowable amount based on the number of people in the household for both April
and May. To see the increased amounts and other information related to food security, please visit:
hftps:Hdhs.iowa.gov/COVID19/FoodSecurity.
To see what other agencies are doing to make sure Iowans have access to food, please visit:
htti)s:Hcoronavirus.iowa.gov/. To apply for food assistance, please visit: https://dhs.iowa.aov/food-
assistance.
Iowa COVID-19 Resources
COVID-19 PUBLIC HOTLINE: For Iowans with questions about COVID-19, a public hotline is open 24/7
by calling 2-1-1 or 1-800-244-7431 (Espanol disponible)
CRISIS TEXT LINE: To access the Crisis Text Line, text "TALK" to 741741
SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Call 1-800-273-8255
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text "LOVEIS" to 22522
GRAB N' GO SCHOOL LUNCH: To find a location in your community go to:
https://www.fns.usda.gov/meals4kids
RECOVERY REBATE CALCULATOR: To see how much your recovery rebate will be, visit:
https://taxfoundation.org/federal-coronavirus-relief-bill-cares-act/
FOOD PANTRIES: Find a food pantry near you at https://www.foodbankiowa.or.g
CHILDCARE: Looking for childcare during COVID-19? Go to https://dhs.iowa.gov/childcare-covid-19 to
find open spots or facilities.
FREE LEGAL HELP: https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/2020-coronavirus-outbreak-what-you-need-
to-know
HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE: To apply for assistance visit: https:Hhuman rights. iowa.pov/dcaa/liheap.
GOVERNOR'S OFFICE UPDATES: For the latest updates from the Iowa Governor's office on COVID-19:
https:/Icoronavirus.iowa.gov
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH UPDATES: For the latest updates on coronavirus and to learn
more about prevention efforts, go to the Iowa Dept. of Public Health at hftps:Hidph.iowa.gov/Emerging-
Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: http://volunteeriowa.galaxydigital.com/
Courts ct State Rep. Dave Jacoby
Copyright u 2020 State Rep. Dave Jacoby, Ati rights reserved.
This email was sent to you because are signed up for Stale Rep. Dave Jacoby's Statehouse News.
Communicating with constituents is crifical to leaming what is important to you.
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Item Number: 9.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Email from Director: ABBE Community Mental health Center - Iowa City
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Email from Director: ABBE Community Mental health Center- Iowa City
Kellie Fruehling
From: Abbey Ferenzi <AFerenzi@abbehealth.org>
Sent: Monday, April 13, 2020 3:02 PM
To: mayor@northiibertyiowa.org; Council;jlundell@coralville.org; mayor@swisheria.org;
mrobe@cityofkalona.org; mayor@cityofriversideiowa.com; wkreis@netins.net;
mayor@tiptoniowa.org; steve.strange@solon-iowa.com; jhavel@windstream.net;
kpetersen@tiffin-iowa.org
Subject: ABBE COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER --IOWA CITY
Attachments: Meet Our Therapists Iowa City v4.pdf
AA
RI K
Hello,
I am sending this email out to spread the word that we are still open and providing mental health services! These
services include appointments with prescribers, therapists and community-based staff. Clients now have the option of
utilizing telehealth which means they can receive the support they need from the comfort and safety of their home.
We accept numerous insurances including Medicaid and Medicare.
Although we are implementing distancing protocols for the health and safety of our staff and community, we want to
connect with people to provide the mental health support that is essential during this crisis. Please forward this flyer on
to anyone you think could benefit from mental health services. Thank you!
Abbey Ferenzi, LMHC
Director—Iowa City Services
Abbe Health An affiliate of UnityPoint Health
Abbe Community Mental Health Center
1039 Arthur St.
Iowa City, IA
Phone: 319-338-7884 Ext. 211
Fax: 319-338-7006
aferenzi@abbehealth.org
abbehealth.ore
This electronic message transmission contains information from Abbe Inc. & Affiliated Companies, which may be
confidential or privileged. The information is intended to be for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you
are not the intended recipient, be aware that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of the contents of this
information is prohibited. If you have received this electronic transmission in error, please notify us by telephone
(319)398-3634.
www.abbehealth.org
Meet Our Therapists
(see pictures and profiles on reverse side)
Leonarda Decker, LMHC
Kristen Heinze, LMSW
Samantha Karrel, LISW
Abby McDowell, LISW
Mona Mohamed, LMSW
Amanda Redlinger, LMSW
Providing mental health services to clients
of all ages utilizing best practice approach-
es, to help with issues such as depression,
anxiety, relationships, trauma, behavioral
issues, substance use, and specialized ser-
vices for individuals with serious mental
illness.
Our Same Day Access Services are still
available if you need to walk-in for care.
However, if you believe you have been ex-
posed to COVID-19 or are experiencing
symptoms, please call our location before
visiting our facility.
UnityPoint Health
r AbbeHealth Services
y.,
Leonarda Decker, LMHC
Education: MA University of Iowa
Unity pint Health
i r AbbeHealth Services
Specialties: Therapy with adults; co-occurring disorders including substance abuse; Cog-
nitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and motivational in-
terviewing.
Kristen Heinze, LMSW
Education: MSW University of Iowa
Specialties: Therapy with adults and children; Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical
Behavior therapy, Mindfulness
Samantha Karrel, LISW
Education: MSW University of Iowa
Specialties: Therapy with adults and adolescents; Approach -Whole person, utilizing
features of CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy and internal family systems to best
meet concerns of client. Specific skills working with people who experienced: domestic
violence, sexual assault, trauma, adoption or foster care, school related concerns, pov-
erty and homelessness.
Abby McDowell, LISW
Education: MSW University of Northern Iowa
Specialties: Therapy with adults and children; utilizing Trauma Informed Care. Specific
skills working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression.
Mona Mohamed, LMSW
Education: MSW University of Iowa
Specialties: Bilingual in English and Arabic; Therapy with adults and adolescents; Ac-
ceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength -based and
Trauma focused therapy
Amanda Redlinger, LMSW
Education: MSW University of Iowa
Specialties: Therapy with adults and children with an emphasis on teenagers and young
adults/college students. PTSD, depression & anxiety, borderline personality disorder,
trauma, abuse, domestic violence, stress & crisis management, grief & loss, life adjust-
ments, EMDR, religious/spiritual counseling
Item Number: 10.
CITY OIF IOWA CITY
www.icgov.org
April 16, 2020
Housing & Community Development Commission: March 12
ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Housing & Community Development Commission: March 12
MINUTES
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MARCH 12, 2020 — 6:30 PM
SENIOR CENTER, ROOM 202
PRELIMINARY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Megan Alter, Matt Drabek, Charlie Eastham, V Fixmer-Oraiz, Lyn Dee
Kealey, John McKinstry
MEMBERS ABSENT: Peggy Aguilar, Peter Nkumu, Maria Padron
STAFF PRESENT: Kirk Lehmann
OTHERS PRESENT: Shirley Tramble, Ryan Holst, Elias Ortiz, Roger Goedken, Carla Phelps,
Ashley Gillette, Anthony Smith, Simon Andrew, Whitney Stevenson
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
By a vote of 5-1 (McKinstry opposed) HCDC recommends the following FY21 Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Program budget to City Council totaling $448,000 HOME and $105,000
CDBG:
Project
CDBG
HOME
Successful Living Acquisition #1
$0
$48,000
Successful Living Acquisition #2
$0
$48,000
Successful Living Acquisition #3
$0
$48,000
The Housing Fellowship CHDO Ops
$0
$20,000
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #1
$0
$30,000
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #3
$27,000
$0
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #2
$0
$0
Systems Unlimited New Construction
$0
$100,000
City South District #2
$0
$50,000
City South District #1
$0
$44,000
Unlimited Abilities Acquisition
$0
$60,000
Little Creations Public Facility
$78,000
$0
Total Allocation:
$105,000
$448,000
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 2 of 14
By a vote of 6-0 HCDC recommends to City Council the following FY21 Emerging Aid to Agencies budget
to City Council totaling $16,738 and dividing the remaining $8,262 among Legacy Aid to Agencies
applicants (totaling $459 per agency):
Grow Johnson County - FY21 Season
$0
Houses into Homes - Inventory Mgt
$5,438
Successful Living - Snow/Mow
$0
Successful Living - Software
$0
Unlimited Abilities - Operations
$11,300
Total Allocation:
$16,738
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Fixmer-Oraiz called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Anthony Smith (Pastor, Little Creations Academy) came forward with a couple of questions. First, he was
wondering how the agencies are picked for the coalition, it sounds like that happened and he was not
privy to how the agencies were picked.
Fixmer-Oraiz stated the Agency Impact Coalition was not form by HCDC, it was self -formed and would
direct questions regarding the coalition to Becci Reedus, Crisis Center/Food Bank or Nicki Ross, Table to
Table.
Smith's follow-up question then is if the coalition is self -formed why it has any impact or any kind of
authority at this meeting or before this board?
Fixmer-Oraiz wouldn't say it necessarily has authority, the coalition is a gathering of executive directors
that have long standing experience with dealing with the Housing Community Development Commission
items and wouldn't say that they have a seat at the table.
Lehmann reminded everyone that for public comment they're actually not supposed to have
conversations, but topics can be put that on the agenda for the next meeting.
Smith also stated other thing he was concerned about was the scoring and if there has been some
consensus or how that's going to be taken care of and is there an avenue for suggestions on how it might
make it a little bit more fair for other agencies to be involved in this. He understands he is just asking the
question, it's not a dialogue, per perhaps something to put on your meeting agenda.
Lehmann made a general public comment that typically they look at those things (such as scoring criteria)
in leading up to the December meeting, so November is typically when the scoring is discussed. Just as a
general comment to the Commission in case you're curious for background.
MONITORING REPORTS:
NEIGHBORHOOD CENTERS OF JOHNSON COUNTY: Lehmann reported they use the assistance for
their early childhood program up to five years, included childcare for 136 infants, toddlers and
preschoolers. They had some youth development where over 800 school aged children participated in
before and after school programs at the schools. And then family development, they also provide support
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 3 of 14
to families and then some community development where they respond to issues that affect the entire
neighborhood. They included a list of things that they did, a snapshot of outcomes which included 91 %
improved or maintained healthy family functioning problem solving communication, 51 out of 58 which is
88% improved or maintain social supports, 88% increase their connection to concrete supports, 60%
improved nurturing attachment between parent and child, and 57% increase knowledge of child
development. He shared the the report with the Commission and if they have questions, they can always
bring them up at the next meeting or or ask for follow up.
4CS: Lehmann read from their report that during the last half of 2019, they've provided over 100
consultations to 23 home-based programs. They work with these providers on a number of things from
registration to additional trainings for DHS approval, to talk about safe sleep practices, and early learning
activities. These are new providers, childcare providers, so addressing how to market their business so
that families can find them is part of the conversation as well. They work hard to get them in the food
program, which partially reimburses them for healthy meals and snacks they serve to children they take
care of. They're struggling with landlords that are limiting the number of children that they can have,
despite the fact that they are monitored by 4C's and by any number of agencies. 4C's is pleased that
their program continues to grow. They have six who are currently going through the registration process,
and it's been a lot of word of mouth activity. Most of the providers are providing infant care and it doesn't
say how many children that they're providing care for, but they assisted 23 home-based programs this
year.
SHELTER HOUSE: In FY19 they were allocated Home Funds of $94,000 with a loan from the Housing
Trust Fund of Johnson County to acquire a property at Wakefield Court to be used at Fair Weather Lodge
which is a communal living supportive housing environment for folks that had experienced homelessness.
They just bought the house, they have five SRO units and they're seeing if they can add another bedroom
possibly, but they're not proceeding at the current time. They're waiting due to some rehab delays to fill
the units but otherwise the property is purchased, and they are working on the property.
For Aid to Agencies for FY20 they have served 674 unique individuals currently in emergency shelter, 99
of whom were children, 47 are non -school aged. That has also been an average of 11 people using
overflow and sleeping in the lobby of the Southgate Avenue shelter as the facility is running capacity for
the standing 70 beds. The winter shelter has maintained a nightly average capacity of 27.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INTERVENTION PROGRAM: Ryan Hoist (DVIP) reported their project was to
repair two of their parking lots that were crumbling and needed to be replaced, that has been finished.
They finished with the fence right after that, there were some hiccups on that but that had been resolved.
The fences are up and working very well, stopping through traffic, making it a lot safer. Finally, they are
now finishing up the part of the project of renovating the youth room. They are basically done with that but
are waiting on one cabinet door to be brought back. They had an issue with a manufacturing default on
one of the cabinet doors, and once that is in they'll be completely finished with the project.
DISCUSS FY21 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME PROGRAM
FUNDING REQUESTS AND CONSIDER BUDGET RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL:
Lehmann started by showing the average by points provided by each Commissioner, he also included the
individual Commissioners' rankings. Lehmann also provided a memo regarding some concerns that staff
had under the CDBG program. Most of it is tied to either applicant capacity or risk of repayment of CDBG
funds. In CDBG, the Community Development Block Grant Program, there is a required five-year period
which is called reversion of assets period. If, for whatever reason a project does not meet its need as
shown in the application for five years, then that money gets pulled out of the project. So typically that
would come by whatever the asset is for example if you helped someone buy a property, that property
would get liquidated or it would be sold off to someone else and the City would get its money back and
the City would pay HUD back. That's the typical process. In this case, Staff's concern is tied to Little
Creations Academy because we provided $109,000 last year, the project is close to being closed, but it's
not quite there yet, they still need a couple reports from Little Creations. Staff is a little concerned about if
another $78,000 is provided to Little Creations Academy then that means that the City is at risk for
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 4 of 14
$187,000 with non-federal funds should the agency close. The concern is that the childcare provider
space is provided by a church and there's a number of reasons why churches close or why childcares
close and in this case the childcare is located in the church building and poses a bit more of a risk
because it is difficult to get that kind of equity back out should Little Creations close within five years. Staff
just wanted the Commission to be aware of that, it doesn't mean that they can't fund it, itjust means that
that's a concern to be aware of as you're making your funding decisions this year and the City needs to
be aware it is their funds they will lose should it close.
Staff's second concern is that with HOME funds, there's a similar affordability period of 5 to 15 years. It is
often described as CDBG being you're dating the person so it's a shorter -term thing and HOME is more of
a marriage where you're together for 5 to 15 years. HOME funds have a lot more requirements that are
tied to it over the long-term funding period. In this case, Unlimited Abilities as a new agency doesn't have
experience with HOME or CDBG funds and staff is a little concerned about using Home funds with
Unlimited Abilities. Again, if they don't meet their requirement over the period either they'll be forced to
sell the property, which would go back to HUD, or if something else happened then the City would be on
the hook for that money. Lehmann noted that staff did just want to put out a recommendation that if
looking at Unlimited Abilities and Little Creations, that reversion of assets only applies for over $25,000 so
they would recommend funding $25,000 as the maximum amount for those and then possibly reopening
an application round for CDBG/Home applicants if it's necessary. That's a staff recommendation again,
HCDC can recommend what it likes, and Council can recommend what it likes, but staff needs HCDC and
Council to be aware of those risks that come with those properties.
Fixmer-Oraiz noted that Unlimited Abilities, the acquisition is ranked pretty low but wants to understand
the staff concern. Lehmann stated the concern is specifically with HOME funds, and to some extent with
CDBG funds, but honestly, the reversion of assets is more of a challenge for Little Creations then
Unlimited Abilities because they're purchasing a new building so that reversion of assets should be able
to be recouped. In the case of Little Creations, the church may still exist, and no assets would be gained
even if the church sold. Fixmer-Oraiz asked if more of the concern with Unlimited Abilities was because
they had never done a project with the City before. Lehmann stated the other factors as to why Unlimited
Abilities ranked lower was because of the way that the ranking is set up. Leverage is a large part of that,
and Unlimited Abilities lost 19 points from that alone, which is a pretty big hit for the application. It did lose
points on capacity in history, it only had 4 out of 15, mostly because it didn't have experience with
CDBG/HOME funds in the past. Those are really where it lost most of its points in the application. That
staff memo was a different point on what it looks like when you have to reclaim funds.
McKinstry asked about the Little Creations application, in the chart it says a minimum of $30,000 and staff
recommended a maximum of $25,000. Lehmann stated the Consolidated Plan has a minimum written of
$30,000 for public facilities and he had written that without thinking about reversions of assets, he based
it off past public facilities projects where it used to be $50,000 minimum to get a public facilities project.
Lehmann wanted to lower it because they had applications like Old Brick where it was $36,000 so he
thought $30,000 was fair. In this case, he would recommend as they're approving the Annual Action Plan
to also amend the Consolidated Plan to be $25,000 because that allows for reversion of assets.
Lehmann said the Commission could recommend $25,000 and also recommend a substantial
amendment to the Consolidated Plan.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked why there needed to be a minimum stated. Lehmann said there had been a time
period where they were doing $5,000 projects, and they'd have 12 projects to administer. As staff
decreased in the community development department that did not become feasible, similar to what
happened with Aid to Agencies with the $15,000 minimum. HCDC could propose a different minimum
project amount, another rationale behind having a minimum was that instead of doing a project every
year, do one project every five years and have it cover a bunch of stuff. There are tradeoffs.
Eastham noted that one of the advantages of having recommendations from the staff is they give him
something to ignore. He doesn't find that reversion of assets argument at all persuasive. It's the same
risk that any applicant or any application presents to the City and he doesn't see any alarming risks from
either Little Creations or Unlimited Abilities in terms of not being able to go ahead with the projects over
the required time periods to avoid reversion. He noted the staff memo actually doesn't talk at all about
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 5 of 14
the benefits for these projects and Little Creations presents a huge benefit to the community for a low-
cost childcare. Unlimited Abilities also presents a huge benefit to the community for group housing for the
folks that their mission is to serve. The staff of Unlimited Abilities has the same abilities and qualifications
as a staff of any other of these organizations. He is not at all concerned about the things that the staff
raised in their memo. Eastham did note he thinks it's important to support newer groups, they pose a
benefit to the communities that they're serving as well as to the general community by opening up a new
organization with new staff that can expand the overall ability to provide housing and childcare for the
community. He will be sticking with his recommendations, both in terms of scoring and with
recommended allocations.
Alter stated one of the things that she is noticing from the conversation as well as having gone through
the applications is that there seems to be almost like a paradox here that on the one hand, we want larger
projects and certainly there's need and there are the funds for it, but on the flip side, there's possibility of
risk, which she is attributing primarily, though there are other things outlined here too, to the fact that both
agencies in this case are fairly new. She also noted for instance that in the application for Little Creations
it does note in two places about past projects having been substantially delayed, but she also noticed that
there was one for Habitat that also talked about delays, but obviously the strength of that application was
different than Little Creations. So taking those two things into account along with what staff has been
describing, in conversation as well as in the memo, it seems like there's an inherent contradiction here
that the place to get larger funds that really are desperately needed in the community by different
agencies, this is the resource for the funding, and yet there's this hesitancy, at least from staffs part, to
perhaps go all in on that because of the possibility of that 5 year or 15 year possibility of the agency going
under.
Lehmann stated from the staff perspective, when it comes to compliance, local funds are the best to fund
starting agencies hands down, it's the right option because the City controls what most of the rules are
and can work within those rules to ensure that newer agencies have the flexibility to grow and to learn. In
the case of federal funds there is a lot more monitoring, if things are not done properly then funds can get
recalled, which can be challenging if funds are spent. In terms of difficulty, generally CDBG is easier to
manage than HOME. HOME in 2013 had a substantial rule change and that's made it a lot more
challenging, and they're even just learning as they do the monitoring with existing agencies, a lot of those
changes in 2013 are not necessarily there. If HUD comes to monitor, and they find us out of compliance,
there's a chance that they could recall those funds. It's a balancing act between saying we want to foster
new agencies, but we want to ensure that they are able to spend the funds without the fear of having it
recalled at some point over the compliance period.
Eastham stated if they all had that perspective then The Housing Fellowship would never gotten started
Drabek noted one question he has for staff is he understands the risk, he doesn't understand how risky
the risk is. He understands Lehmann can't give anything close to a hard number, but for him it would
make a big difference to whether there was a 1 % chance of the funds getting recalled versus a 25%
chance of the funds getting recalled.
Lehmann stated in the case of Unlimited Abilities he has never worked with that agency and they're both
new agencies so it's hard to say, he can't give a risk amount, what he can say is that CDBG funds are
less risky to use. In the case of Little Creations, they've shown a great dedication to providing low cost
childcare, that's a great thing for low income people. But, like he said, the City would probably be less risk
averse if it hadn't happened once already in a church providing childcare situation. If someone moved
who was the champion for that to a different location or retired or anything like that, you never quite know
what happens. Lehmann reiterated he can't give any kind of risk analysis, but what staff wants to do is
make sure that you are aware that there is a risk, and then go ahead and make your recommendation
and either ignore it or make your best guess on saying you think it's going to stick it out for those five
years.
Eastham asked if the City could attach a lien to the building of the church building itself. Lehmann
confirmed the City would have a lien, but churches eventually sell their buildings and do something else.
Eastham noted the City's pretty heavily involved in taking long term commitments for housing. Eastham
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 6 of 14
also stated for the benefit of the Commission, he just doesn't think this is a real issue for them to
consider.
Eastham stated he does have a question about the City's South District Program. The application
indicates or some other source indicates that the staff has received 11 applications for the four units that
are currently in the program and he wonders what the racial makeup of those applicants is and where are
they living. Lehmann believes at least the two that are moving forward right now are South District
residents from Taylor Drive and are currently neighbors, so they're excited to continue being neighbors.
Lehmann noted he is not as involved with that program and does not have those numbers with him but
thought that was stated in the application. Eastham noted the number of applicants was in the application
but there was no demographic breakdown or the residency of the applicants. Lehmann said the program
is targeted towards neighbors staying in the neighborhood. He added that the expected incomes is
based off of the applicants that they currently have but obviously with one applicant at 61 to 80 and one at
31 to 50 it's not a full breakout but he believes that's representative of what they've got in applications.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked with the figures that they have today what is the average. Lehmann stated three
households are under 30%, five are 30 to 53 or 60 to 80 but he doesn't have the racial makeup.
Fixmer-Oraiz stated with the average of everything recommended, and then the expected, there's a
tiny wiggle room there and is curious where they're at with everything now that there is an average and
given the conversation she is curious if people have thoughts on anything that they want to move or
change.
McKinstry suggested to see everybody who asked for funds get some this time because of the needs that
are out there. He does take seriously all the hard work they put in on the scoring system and trying to
make the scoring system actually mean something so that when agency executives are searching for
what their next objective is they can count on if they really score high because they really push to do
those things they be rewarded. He also thinks it's very important to help out new agencies but is more
interested in the services that people actually get in the end, the people who are in need. Therefore, he
would like to see Little Creations and Unlimited Abilities get some funding but would recommend that,,
everything above those on the list, due to their scores, be fully funded and that they look at what remains
that isn't allocated by fully funding all those of above the bottom two and then they discussed more in
more depth the final two and that they use the HOME funds everywhere they can above the bottom two in
the ranking. If they use up all the HOME funds first and then have the CDBG funds left over for the
bottom two because there is more local flexibility and because they have more recoverability if there is a
problem.
Eastham stated he looked at the projects and what they actually accomplish. He is really pleased with the
group home projects of Successful Living, Systems Unlimited and Unlimited Abilities. They also have
though four units for the City South district and three Habitat down payment assistance projects for a total
of seven homeowner projects, which, in his mind are useful but not totally essential things for them to be
doing. Eastham agrees with McKinstry and feels maybe they're going in the same direction, but he could
certainly remove funding for one of the South district projects and one Habitat down payment assistance
project and to bring the Little Creations and Unlimited Abilities up closer to their to their application
request. He added one of the things he used in scoring Unlimited Abilities and Little Creations was the
leveraging question and the difficulty he has with the way that that leveraging question is being utilized is
that they're looking for leveraging for funds outside of the HOME and CDBG things. For him the
leveraging question should be looking for funds that are other public funds that are available to the project
or to the applications, rather than private because all the private funds are coming from the homebuyers.
Lehmann noted it is mostly like mortgages, basically the down payment.
Eastham stated he is giving credit for leveraging for money that's coming in from people that are
benefiting from project so did his points for leveraging for both Unlimited Abilities and Little Creations to
consider that balancing.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 7 of 14
Lehmann noted the agreement on funding at least the top group homes and then further discussion, all
agreed.
Drabek stated he also agreed with McKinstry's general principle of using the HOME funds first for the
higher ranks. All other Commissioners agreed.
Lehmann said by doing that it that would leave $74,000 of CDBG currently open.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked him to calculate the Unlimited Abilities and Little Creations amounts.
Drabek noted Eastham wanted to take money from that third Habitat request and then move it to Little
Creations or Unlimited Abilities. Eastham agreed noting that still give two Habitat down payment projects
funded.
Lehmann noted if they do that it would leave $27,000 which could be used for Habitat
Alter noted she may be in the minority here with the South District, she realizes that one of them is funded
but was very taken by a discussion or presentation by Habitat a couple of years ago about the impact
because it was at that time a low priority and hadn't gotten a whole lot of consensus about getting
funding. The explanation that they provided us was about the sort of the ripple effect of impact on
homeownership and legacy and bolstering up of neighborhoods. South District, particularly on Taylor and
Davis, as Eastham has long fought and been an avid advocate for, really allowing the neighborhood to
actually have the potential for home ownership is crucial in the long term but in particular right now
because there's actually a lot of violent interaction there. She feels there are multiple ways in which the
neighborhood can be strengthened and that don't necessarily have to rely on police action. She is not
saying if one is to buy a home they don't have to call the police but that there needs to be other props in
place to help strengthen that neighborhood. She thinks that both projects should go through and she
realizes it's about risk because this is a new project, but the flip side is that they saw what was done with
the one set of units, it's really tremendous. She noted there seems to be consensus on funding at least
one she wanted to put that out there to fund both. They have done away with priority rankings and her
fear is that something that's really looking forward towards future stability and strength is going to always
get pushed down in favor of a more critical need, but both are tremendously important.
McKinstry noted he is in agreement and thinks homeownership has a stabilizing effect on whole
generations of families in whole neighborhoods and it extends further than just the family that lives within
the walls. As he already stated he'd rather see the Habitat and South District things fully funded.
McKinstry also noted for many years he was pastor of a congregation that had childcare, it was a
HeadStart program, and a lot of federal funding helped. They shared the kitchen, the dishwasher, the
range so he understands and is in great sympathy with the need for Little Creations to be funded.
Eastham stated he is not inclined to overlook group home support, or down payment assistance or home
ownership, his argument is that Council has funds that they can put into homeownership both in the
South District and Habitat projects beyond the CDBG and HOME amounts. If Council was persuaded
that the South District homeownership project or Habitat's down payment assistance project is a great
boom to the community they have available money in other parts of the City budget to put into those
efforts.
Fixmer-Oraiz noted the Commission has gone to City Council several times now requesting additional
funds. She agrees the City South District is a very strong component because they need neighborhood
stabilization in that district, which also shows in the scoring. She agrees there are other funding but is
just not sure who's going to take up that mantle at this juncture.
Drabek discussed the scenario with the numbers shown as everything fully funded and use the remaining
CDBG and allocate it towards the two organizations left.
Fixmer-Oraiz questioned is if those two organizations are not fully funded will they still be able to move
forward with their projects. Lehmann stated for Unlimited Abilities they could perhaps purchase one
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 8 of 14
home instead of two and Little Creations would just buy whatever they could with the allocation they
receive.
Alter stated that Unlimited Abilities said in their application they could purchase a home for $75,000 and
she sounded pretty confident that there was some way that that was going to work. Therefore, Alter's
recommendation is to fund one home.
Fixmer-Oraiz noted that Systems Unlimited is such a great organization and they're asking for $100,000.
They also have a fairly robust ability to leverage funds from what she recalls so what if they funded them
at most but not all, somewhere in the range of $74,000 or $75,000 and then that would free up other
funds for the other organizations. Lehmann stated already bought the lot, their project budget is
$478,000, the lot purchase is $65,000, engineering and design and then home construction for $375,000.
Fixmer-Oraiz said they're asking for $100,000 which would be spread throughout those specifics and if it
were somewhere in the vicinity of $75,000 then they would be able to get a lot purchased plus have a bit
extra.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked is there anything the Commission needed to know from any of the organizations
Lehmann noted there has been some of the more recent projects delayed a little bit so that FY20
Successful Living acquisitions have gone forward smoothly, Successful Living's rehab has been a little
slower, Habitat's FY20 has switched to a down payment assistance model, so we're not as involved in the
construction so he doesn't know where those projects are as much. With South District, the challenge
they've had, especially since they've been looking in the area and prioritizing lower income folks, it's hard
to get them qualified with a mortgage and because it's a new program, working with lenders, get them to
understand what the down payment assistance situation looks like, and what's getting forgiven and what
the costs are is challenging. With Systems Unlimited the City doesn't have an active project with them,
The Housing Fellowship has a bunch of properties, they're pretty well known, and they have a good
compliance. Little Creations has been, especially with the new contractor on that last part of the contract
went pretty smooth. Lehmann wanted to reiterate he is not worried about the project getting done or
anything, he has no problems with that. He noted it's been an unfortunate situation where they've been
delayed this time so now they're just waiting on reports from Little Creations to submit that and they can
close that out. Lehmann noted those were just general thoughts, no real concerns.
Drabek asked without discussing any specific number here he thinks that the general principle of what is
suggested is good. He stated it rewards the higher scoring applicants, it gives money to every agency, it
appropriately balances the CDBG versus HOME funds.
Lehmann noted one additional thing that might be of interest to the Commission is with the new
Consolidated Plan, they are de -obligating old funds that don't get spent on economic development within
two years. They have been trying to push childcare as their economic development activity but will likely
have funds that will be de -obligated in CDBG, which could then be reallocated and could retroactively
fund an agency more. It is not a promise, and the Commission could also do a funding round it would just
depend on how HCDC wanted to approach that based on the policies that are in the Consolidated Plan.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked when that would be. Lehmann stated it would be July 1 unless projects come
through right at the end over the next three months, he believes that it would be around $60,000.
Eastham wants to understand what the boost in proposed allocations are again, Lehmann stated the
proposed allocations right now are full funding for Successful Living's three acquisitions, Housing
Fellowship CHDO, Habitat's three purchases or down payment assistance, Systems Unlimited new
construction and then the City's South District program projects. Then for Unlimited Abilities acquisition
would be $75,000 and Little Creations would be $24,000 and the Commission would have to amend the
Consolidated Plan with a smaller amount. Eastman stated he would not approve only $24,000 for Little
Creations as it doesn't make any sense to him. He said they could move one of the Habitat down
payment assistance proposals and increase the Little Creation amount.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 9 of 14
Drabek noted there is one very small change that would eliminate the necessity of asking for an
amendment to the Consolidated Plan and that would be moving $6,000 in CDBG funds from City South
District to Little Creations. That would bring the amount to $30,000.
Eastham noted that $30,000 still below the average allocation of $40,000. He also stated affordable
childcare is a major need in the community and one which there is substantial efforts being conducted by
a number of groups in the community to address.
Lehmann noted with the Little Creations project the hood is $28,000 roughly by itself, then there's
electrical, plumbing, gas range for $3,000, three parts sink for $1,600, commercial dishwasher for around
$9,000 and a number of site preparation stuff and then some of the developer oversight stuff.
Drabek noted then the allocation of $30.000 would be roughly the amount of the hood budget. Or
Lehmann noted the dishwasher, sink, range and plumbing.
Fixmer-Oraiz also noted to keep in mind that in July there may be another $60,000 that could be
reallocated. Lehmann confirmed that is what they're anticipating.
Eastham noted that $60,000 could also use for down payment assistance on one of the other
homeownership projects. Lehmann acknowledge it could be for any unfunded project or to fully fund a
project or a competitive round could be opened. Eastham suggested reducing the number of home
ownership projects. Lehmann stated that would require shifting HOME to Unlimited Abilities and then
moving Unlimited Abilities CDBG down and he stated that blending funding is challenging and best to fully
fund with one source of funds as they've had issues in the past. Lehmann stated they're trying to make it
easier, but it's not easy and even experienced agencies do not always comply properly, and he would
recommend against doing it.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked what if they fully fund Little Creations, she agrees with Eastham and has actually
spent quite amount of time on the Johnson County Child Care Coalition and childcare is a serious need in
the community for many reasons, so is there a way to just take one of Habitat's down payment assistance
and move it over to Little Creations.
Lehmann stated if they wanted to go this route he would recommend on down payment for Habitat under
CDBG and one under HOME.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked if the Commission could ask a question of Unlimited Abilities since they are in the
audience. She asked if this was to go through and they get half of the funding now and half of the funding
later, is that an issue in terms of timing, given the project that they have.
Shirley Trample (Unlimited Abilities) replied she doesn't think it would be.
Lehmann state he would also propose if they were to do that, they still swap out the HOME for CDBG and
Habitat can be funded with CDBG.
Alter moved to recommend the following FY21 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and
HOME Program budget to City Council totaling $448,000 HOME and $105,000 CDBG:
Project
CDBG
OME
Successful Living Acquisition #1
$0
48,000
Successful Living Acquisition #2
$0
48,000
Successful Living Acquisition #3
$0
48,000
The Housing Fellowship CHDO Ops
$0
20,000
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #1
$0
30,000
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #3
$27,000
0
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 10 of 14
Habitat Down Payment Assistance #2
$0
0
Systems Unlimited New Construction
$0
100,000
City South District #2
$0
50,000
City South District #1
$0
44,000
Unlimited Abilities Acquisition
$0
60,000
Little Creations Public Facility
$78,000
0
Total Allocation:
$105,000
448,000
Eastham seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 5-1 (McKinstry opposed).
DISCUSS FY21 EMERGING AID TO AGENCIES (EA2A) FUNDING REQUESTS AND CONSIDER
BUDGET RECOMMENDATION TO CITY COUNCIL:
Lehmann noted the budget for EA2A is $25,000 and he showed the averages. He noted that Successful
Living snow/mow is below the $5,000 minimum. Otherwise, if they funded everything, it would all hit that
$5,000 minimum. Lehmann noted all requests are above the minimum and noted that two Successful
Livings requests are technically over the maximum.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked it agencies could put in multiple applications. Lehmann said the guidance that they
have so far is that there's a minimum and there's a maximum, but they haven't talked about multiple
applications. CDBG/HOME agencies got guidance to put in one application for every property that they
want to purchase with the idea that it would be easier to allocate funds.
Eastham noted the Successful Living snow removal thing just failed to excite him so he moved the $2,250
down to Unlimited Abilities.
Fixmer-Oraiz stated that for people who have access or accessibility problems, not having clear
sidewalks, entryways, and driveways is an issue. It is also a strain on their staff who's having to go
around to all of these properties, so she thought it was actually a good investment. Lehmann noted that
Successful Living is typically chronic mental disabilities, but it does include physical disabilities as well.
Alter stated she was trying to look at this through the lens of why emerging aid to agencies was its own
separate allocation pot and the purpose of having the emerging aid to agency was really to try and fund
organizations that were trying to emerge and getting off of their feet. Which is also the question she had
about Grow Johnson County, haven't they previously been funded. They always have great application,
and it's certainly a worthy cause but at what point are they emerging anymore. Similarly, Successful
Living is the same. It's not that she doesn't think it's worthy and people do need to get around, but rather
to reflect on why we had the categories separated. And in that case, Houses into Homes definitely
qualifies and Unlimited Abilities as well.
Eastham stated an option would be to fund Unlimited Abilities and Houses and Homes as genuine
emerging aid and then devote the remainder back to the other HOME/CDBG projects. Other
Commissioners agreed to that.
Alter also stated it's incumbent upon the Commission to be a little bit clearer on the application as to what
emerging aid category is and what that means. They need a clarification statement on the application so
they don't waste people's time. She apologizes to those organizations that it really was a failure of the
Commission.
Eastham is proposing to fund Unlimited Abilities and Houses and Homes and have the remaining $8,262
go the legacy agency projects and be divided equally per agency.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 11 of 14
Eastham moved to recommend the following FY21 Emerging Aid to Agencies budget to City
Council totaling $16,738 and dividing the remaining $8,262 among Legacy Aid to Agencies
applicants (totaling $459 per agency):
Grow Johnson County - FY21 Season
$0
Houses into Homes - Inventory Mgt
$5,438
Successful Living - Snow/Mow
$0
Successful Living - Software
$0
Unlimited Abilities - Operations
$11,300
Total Allocation:
$16,738
Alter seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0.
DISCUSS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK ACTIVITIES:
Lehmann noted Community Development week is held annually, it's a time to celebrate the projects that
are funded by CDBG and HOME and it's a way to get out the word so the Commission can see what's
happening. Last year they did those tours of the agencies but are now doing that now on a more
personalized basis. There has also in the past been things where the Commission has decided to put on
an event or awards, a celebration, it is up to the Commission if that is something that they want to take
on. If the Commission is interested in doing that, they can create a subcommittee or discuss. Probably
the easiest thing to do is to create a subcommittee and organize something that way.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked if there was an interested in creating a subcommittee to come up with some ideas
that people want to do, however she acknowledged #Coronavirus. They probably don't want to devote
scads of time into something that ultimately may not happen.
Lehmann suggested doing something like posters or social media. Fixmer-Oraiz noted she has kicked
around this idea of communities of care and could really fit in something like what Lehmann was saying of
posters. She had originally envisioned it as letters of care and it would be basically love letters to our
partner organizations. However she is not sure if letters fall under spreading coronavirus. They could do
emails of care. She came up with that idea while she was sitting in the meeting with the City and with the
Agency Impact Coalition, it was very tense but then there was this moment of hey, we're people, and
we're really trying to do good work. She just thought there's an opportunity there to tell that story in a way
that's actually recognizing the work that our care providers provide do is really from a loving place.
Lehman suggested as Commissioners, they have their meetings with each agency and how about after
those meetings they write letters thanking them for the work that they do.
Alter asked if the audience is just those agencies. Fixmer-Oraiz stated she was trying to get the public to
write the letters but obviously it's easier if we just do it because it actually will get done. It was also a way
for the City to potentially be a drop off point for the City to receive the letters to them and showing it is full
circle of the City and the agencies working together in the eye of the public. Fixmer-Oraiz wondered if
there could be something on the City website where people could just write a quick note.
Consensus to agree to develop a subcommittee to flesh out ideas.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked since they are not promoting large group gatherings at this point, can they potentially
move to another week. Lehmann stated it is a nationally recognized week, but they can have a local
community development week.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 12 of 14
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: FEBRUARY 20,2020:
Eastham moved to approve the minutes of February 20, 2020. Kealey seconded and a vote was taken
and the motion passed 6-0.
HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION:
Lehmann noted the next meeting will be on April 16 at 6:30pm in Senior Center room 202. Agenda will
be monitoring updates on Little Creations, Successful Living and The Housing Fellowship, they will
discuss projects not conforming with the unsuccessful delayed projects policy, which at this point he
believes is only Old Brick and they've actually gotten word from the HUD rep and are moving ahead so
very excited about that. They will also review of the FY21 Annual Action Plan and then review of the
Citizen Participation Plan update. One thing that staff has been doing is going through the Citizen
Participation Plan and will put it as an appendix to the Consolidated Plan as well. They will also consider
amendments to the Consolidated Plan, such as the public facilities amount, if that's something the
Commission wants to pursue. He asked it there anything else to add to the agenda.
Fixmer-Oraiz asked to discuss the method of the meeting on April 16 as she doesn't think they should
meet in person. Lehmann said the City has not yet had consideration for Commission's or Committees
meeting virtually but imagines that will change relatively soon. Fixmer-Oraiz asked if they could us Skype
or Zoom. Lehmann said they can do digital meetings so long as it is on any open meeting software like
Skype or Zoom. He noted there's some additional rules that come with that but for the most part it's going
to be the same they just have to make sure that they're posting all the information so that everyone can
participate.
Eastham added at some point, he'd like to talk about the Agency Impact Coalition but would not
necessarily want to do that at an electronic meeting and rather do it in person.
Lehmann noted that there is not an HCDC meeting scheduled in June, April will likely be an online
meeting, May could as well. They need to have the April meeting but in May they don't necessarily need
to meet however that could mean the next meeting would be July.
Lehmann also wanted to pass on information from Shelter House, currently the guidance from HUD as to
how to deal with the outbreak within a shelter situation versus other situations has not been terribly useful
up to this point and so Shelter House is looking for any ideas, right now the City is trying to work through
this but it's a challenging situation.
Lehmann also noted the City is also trying to figure out how to use public facilities right now, the model is
mostly a disaster recovery situation, but this is different than relocating someone from a floodplain, or
flood impacted area.
Eastham assumes Shelter House has looked at the Department of Public Health and the State
Department. Lehmann confirmed they have and there is some guidance out of LA County that's better
than HUDs but I mean, it's very different place by place and the shelters are a challenging situation.
Shelter House is also looking for donations of sanitary supplies because obviously they're going through a
lot of those and it's out at a lot of places.
McKinstry pointed out that the Meals on Wheels people have already made sure that all of their clients
have seven days of their normal support services food on hand which was really cool but they don't know
where the money for that is going to come from for sure but they went ahead and did it, even though it
wasn't in their budget. He stated it was good they looked at the emergency funding last month, because
he is sure there's going to be some requests for reimbursement from some of the agencies who are really
getting ahead of things and spending money they don't have in order to try to avoid some cataclysm with
their clientele.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 13 of 14
Lehmann noted in terms of agency liaison meetings, McKinstry is done with his visits, Fixmer-Oraiz has
April and May, does Eastham want June and July to get them done. Fixmer-Oraiz said she may have to
push back her visits due to COVID-19. Lehmann agreed and suggested they delay until June and just
plan on starting in June.
Final announcements, Lehmann has accepted a different position at the City of Iowa City and will be
transitioning to the long-range planner position. He will work closely with his successor to make sure that
things transition smoothly and will actually be transitioning March 24. The position is open right now till
March 25 if you know of anyone who would be interested in applying for a community development
planner position.
ADJOURNMENT:
Alter moved to adjourn. Kealey seconded the motion. A vote was taken, and the motion passed 6-0.
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 12, 2020
Page 14 of 14
Housing and Community
Development Commission
Attendance Record
Name
Terms Exp.
7/11
8/15
9/19
10/17
12/19
2/20
3/12
Aguilar, Peggy
6/30/22
0
X
X
O/E
X
X
O/E
Alter, Megan
6/30/21
X
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
Drabek, Matt
6/30/22
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
Eastham, Charlie
6/30/20
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Fixmer-Oraiz, V
6/30/20
X
X
X
X
X
O/E
X
Kealey, Lyn Dee Hook
6/30/22
O/E
X
O/E
O/E
X
X
X
McKinstry, John
6/30/20
X
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Nkumu, Peter
6/30/22
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
Padron, Maria
6/30/20
X
X
X
X I
O/E
X
O/E
• Resigned from Commission
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Vacant
► r 1
rows
CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(319) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
www.icgov.org
City Council Agenda — April 21, 2020
Information submitted between distribution of packet on Thursday and close of business on
Monday.
Late Addition(s):
Consent Calendar
Item 7 Correspondence:
Item 7.i. Steve Stimmel: landfill
Late Handout(s):
Consent Calendar
Item 7 Correspondence:
Item 7.b. Wood burning fire pits in residential neighborhoods: Joe Svec
Item 7.f. Solar Panels: Jerry Wetlaufer, Alisa Meggitt
Regular Formal Aqenda
Item 17. Procurement of Professional Services for Prairie Restoration: See
correspondence from Paula Swygard, Mary Knudson, Mei-ling Joiner,
Daniel Eberl, Helene Donta, Jared Stiles, Mary Mockaitis, Hans & Alicia
Hoerschelman, Lindsay Park, Tyler Luebke,
Info Packet of 4/16
IP Letter from Johnson County Board of Supervisors to the Muscatine
County Board of Supervisors: Concerns regarding Captain Dean
Naylor, Jail Administrator
,Johnson
County
JINL_
April 20, 2020
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Rod Sullivan, Chairperson Lisa Green -Douglass
Pat Heiden, Vice Chairperson Royceann Porter
Janelle Rettig
Late Handouts Distributed
Lt- �-Q---2�
Muscatine County Board of Supervisors (Date)
Muscatine County Administration Building
414 E. 3rd Street, Suite 101
Muscatine, IA 52761-4142
Re: Concerns regarding Captain Dean Naylor, Jail Administrator
Dear Members of the Board of Supervisors,
On behalf of the Johnson County Board of Supervisors, I am writing you to express our deep
concerns regarding the comments and actions of Captain Naylor, as recently reported in the
media. Attached is a copy of the article by Clark Kauffman from the Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Johnson County Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek shared with us that he has housed our county's
overflow inmates at the Muscatine County Jail for more than ten years and has had a good
relationship with your Sheriff's Office. However, Captain Naylor's reprehensible comments
about Muslims and members of the LGBTQ+ community have caused us to fear for the civil
liberties of the inmates housed at your jail.
We find Captain Naylor's hateful speech to be unacceptable, particularly considering the high
standard we hold for sworn law enforcement officers. We denounce his comments and actions.
Given this, we ask that the Muscatine County Board of Supervisors take whatever actions are
necessary to ensure the protection of the civil liberties of all persons incarcerated in your jail.
We hope that you share our viewpoint and swiftly act to address our concerns.
We appreciate your willingness to address this situation and look forward to your response. We
will continue to monitor this situation closely. As you might imagine, if concerns remain, we may
have no choice but to terminate our contract with Muscatine County and seek housing for our
county's overflow inmates elsewhere.
Sincerely,
ekcj 2A_tk�
Rod Sullivan, Chairperson
Johnson County Board of Supervisors
cc: Muscatine County Attorney Alan R. Ostergren
Muscatine County Sheriff C.J. Ryan
913 South Dubuque Street ♦ Iowa City, Iowa 52240 ♦ 319-356-6000 ♦ www.johnson-county.com
4/2012020 Iowa jail official: Muslims are'pawns of the devil' aiming to kill Christians - Iowa Capital Dispatch
Iowa jail official: Muslims are `pawns of
the devil,aiming to kill Christians
By Clark Kauffman - April 10, 2020
Muscatine County Jail Administrator Dean Naylor has a YouTube channel in which he details the coming "end times." In a related written
treatise, he says Muslims worship Satan and will soon hunt down and kill Christians and Jews. (Photo: YouTube screen capture.)
The top administrator at one of Iowa's largest jails says Muslims are "pawns of the devil" and will
soon be hunting down and killing Christians.
Muscatine County Jail Administrator Dean Naylor has placed online a lengthy treatise on the subject,
as well as seven videos, all of which were produced five to six years ago but remain publicly
accessible online.
In his written treatise, Naylor describes "the gay lifestyle" as an abomination and denounces court
rulings that have led to the removal of the Ten Commandments from courthouses and government
buildings.
Naylor's YouTube channel includes three hours of video lectures on the scriptures and the coming
"tribulations and rapture" that he says will take place sometime before 2023.
For the past 10 years, Naylor has run the Muscatine County Jail, which has roughly 250 beds and
houses inmates for other eastern Iowa counties and the federal government. The jail frequently
houses Muslim Inmates, some of whom have complained of discrimination.
In a federal lawsuit filed in 2013, seven months before Naylor posted his written condemnation of
Muslims, a Muslim Inmate sued Naylor in federal court, claiming the jail administrator had ignored his
request for a copy of the Quran, the central religious text of Islam. The case was tossed out of court
after the inmate failed to respond to the county's motion to dismiss.
In the 11,500 -word treatise entitled "End Times — We Are Herel!I" Naylor characterizes Muslims as
"the beast" that will set out to kill all Christians and Jews just before the rapture occurs.
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4/20/2020 Iowa jail official: Muslims are'pawns of the devil' aiming to kill Christians - Iowa Capital Dispatch
He writes:
• "The people following the Muslim faith are nothing more than pawns to the devil ... Allah is Satan,
no doubt. Christians need to wake up and understand this. The Muslim world is bowing five times a
day to the devil and they don't know it ... Islam has 2 billion followers, they hate Jews and
Christians (and) they can have a 200 -million -man army ... Our fellow servants will turn on us and
rat us out to the Satanically led Muslims who will be hunting us."
• "Muslims also do not have any use for Christians. They will attack and kill any'infidel'. An 'infidel' is
anyone who does not believe in Islam or In other words worship 'Satan.' This includes both
Christians and Jews ... Muslims that are currently worshiping Satan and do not realize that they are
actually worshiping Satan but they are being Influenced now to kill and eradicate all Christians and
Jews."
• "The next thing on the horizon is a world war. This war will kill a third of mankind. That is about 2
billion people ... It wouldn't take long to kill 2 billion people with nuclear weapons. So the war could
only take a few days or a year or two. So it could start anytime and probably already has."
• "Very soon Christians will be faced with a world that is hunting them worldwide and they will not
be able to participate in the economy."
• "The public and governmental acceptance of the gay lifestyle which is an abomination that
according to scripture even defiles the land has caused great harm on our nation. Schools not
allowing prayer and teaching atheistic views to our children has also caused great harm not to
mention removing truths like the Ten Commandments from our courthouses and government
offices."
Rita Bettis Austen, legal director for the ACLU of Iowa, said that while the organization doesn't know
whether Naylor's views have resulted in discrimination at the jail, "religious discrimination by officials
has no place in America, which prizes religious freedom and pluralism among all our
people. Regardless of the comments, we would encourage any Muslim who has experienced religious
discrimination while held in the Muscatine County Jail in the last two years to contact the ACLU of
Iowa, or another attorney, promptly. Federal law, and the U.S. and Iowa Constitutions, protect
against discrimination based on religion in jails and prisons, and officials may be sued when they do
so."
In one of his videos, Naylor vehemently urges viewers to "buckle up" and prepare for a war that will
take place between 2016 and 2023 and will kill one-third of mankind.
"The beast is coming, all right? Whether you want to wake up to it or not, he's coming. Our time is
nearing the end," Naylor says in the video. "The clock on the end time is ticking ... Wake up. We need
to start preparing for war — spiritual war and physical war."
Asked whether his videos and written statements reflect his current way of thinking, Naylor declined
to comment.
Naylor's boss, Muscatine County Sheriff C.J. Ryan, said that as sheriff his "concern Is the actions of
my employees, not their personal beliefs. I have no comment on the personal beliefs of Mr. Naylor or
any of my other employees."
Ryan said "it is departmental policy that all employees are required to treat individuals with whom
they interact without regard to their personal characteristics such as race, sex, national origin,
religion, sexual orientation or other factors protected by law."
Muscatine County Supervisor Scott Sauer said he knows Naylor, but doesn't know anything about his
public statements or online postings.
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4/20/2020 Iowa jail official: Muslims are 'pawns of the devil' aiming to kill Christians Iowa Capital Dispatch
"I know nothing of what you're speaking of, nothing at all," he said. "I don't get online looking for
whatever. I'm just not a person who does that, that gets online and searches for whatever you can
search for. I've got way too much work to do to be doing that."
Supervisor Doug Holliday said he, too, was unaware of any online postings by the jail administrator.
He said he's not sure it would be an issue for the board to consider, as they have been busy dealing
with the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said he has some initial thoughts on Naylor's views, but added that he's reluctant to share them
until he can find out more about the situation.
Clark Kauffman
Deputy Editor Clark Kauffman has worked during the past 30 years as both an investigative reporter and editorial writer
at two of Iowa's largest newspapers, the Des Moines Register and the Quad -City Times. He has won numerous state
and national awards for reporting and editorial writing. His 2004 series on prosecutorial misconduct In Iowa was named
a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Investigative Reporting. From October 2018 through November 2019, Kauffman was
an assistant ombudsman for the Iowa Office of Ombudsman, an agency that investigates citizens' complaints of
wrongdoing within state and local government agencies.
https://iowacapitaidispatch.com/2020/04/10/iowa-jail-official-muslims-are-pawns-of-the-devil-aiming-to-kill-christiansi 313