HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-06-30 Bd Comm minutes2b 1
MINUTES APPROVED
PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, APRIL 2 2009
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM -CITY HALL
Members Present: Jan Finlayson, Dalayne Williamson, Ann Kahn, Rick Fosse,
Patrick Carney, Terry Robinson
Members Absent: Mark Seabold
Staff Present: Marcia Bollinger, Jeff Davidson, Nate Kabat
Public Present: Melissa Mitchell, interested party
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
Recommend approval of reallocating $1000 from the Wetherby Shelter mural
project to supporting a mural to be painted on the Creekside Park shelter along
with the completion of the Wetherby Shelter ceiling. The project will be lead by
Daniel Kinney with assistance from students of Tate High School, surrounding
elementary schools and residents of Creekside Neighborhood Association. Moved
by Finlayson. Seconded by Kahn. Motion passed 6:0.
CALL TO ORDER
Finlayson called the meeting to order at 3:05 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 5, 2009 MEETING
MOTION: Fosse moved to approve the minutes; Robinson seconded. The motion
passed 6:0.
REVIEW SUBMISSIONS FOR THE DOWNTOWN IOWA SCULPTOR'S SHOWCASE
Bollinger passed out submission from three artists. She noted the chosen artist would
receive a $500 honorarium. The dedication would be on the Saturday of Artsfest and the
sculpture will remain on the showcase pad for a full year.
Jerry Cowger: Proposed Banjolin, a 9' x 4' x 42" brass sculpture representing a musical
instrument similar to a banjo or violin. Cowger has participated in the showcase before.
Jason Messier: Proposed Simple Flight, a 3' square steel powder coated sculpture
representing a bobber with a dragonfly on top.
Michael Tschampl: Proposed Surrender, a 24" tall, 12-14" wide carved granite sculpture,
which in the words of the artist is, "representing a masculine figure that is displaying a
feminine relationship, both spiritual and emotional."
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Page 2 of 4
Robinson said he was concerned about securing Surrender to the showcase pad.
Bollinger said securing the piece is the responsibility of the artist. Kahn said she liked
Banjolin, Williamson agreed the piece would fit well with the Friday Night Concert Series.
Williamson asked if the pieces are ever vandalized. Bollinger said there have been no
significant problems in the past. The committee agreed the Cowger piece would be the
best fit for the showcase pad.
UPDATE ON WATERWORKS PRAIRIE PARK SCULPTURE
Bollinger explained the City Council agreed to defer a decision on the sculpture, but
would like to reconsider the contract with Dale Merrill. The City Council is planning to
propose paying $5,000 to Merrill for breach of contract on July 15', 2009 and another
$5,000 would be paid on July 1S`, 2010. Merrill would consider $5,000 of the total
$10,000 as a down payment on the sculpture to be completed at a later date. Davidson
added this is a relatively good solution for both sides. Bollinger said delaying the project
will allow the Committee time to pursue further private partnerships in the project.
Fosse said this situation provides some lessons for the Committee's future decision
making. He said the Committee should be more sensitive in the future of economic
conditions when considering projects. Fosse noted early on in the Committee's
existence a lot of emphasis was put on ensuring a project would not go sour in the
public's opinion. He said this emphasis should not be forgotten. Finlayson suggested
had the timing been different the project may have been less controversial. Davidson
agreed saying the perfect storm of the contentious firefighter issue, the sales tax
referendum and the City's budget situation makes public art seem less important right
now.
Bollinger said private participation and contributions to the project will now be essential
to the project moving forward. Davidson agreed saying many people do not believe
public funds should support art at all. Bollinger said all in all she believes the Committee
came out of the issue as good as possible.
UPDATE ON TATE HIGH SCHOOL MURAL PROJECT
Bollinger explained the last project was a huge success. Dan Kinney planned to do a
mural similar to the one he had completed in Minneapolis. The neighborhood was not
excited about that idea because they thought they shelter might have enough murals
and would rather have murals more reflective of the neighborhood. As a result, Bollinger
approached the Creekside neighborhood about doing a mural in the Creekside Park
Shelter. Kinney liked the Creekside idea since it is so close to Tate High School and the
neighborhood was excited about the project as well. The mural project will involve
students as well as residents of the Creekside Neighborhood. Kinney is working to
personalize the design and students will paint with residents on a weekly basis.
Kahn said she is glad the Wetherby Neighborhood spoke up about their dislike of the
plan and she is glad it worked out for Creekside as well. She is excited about the idea of
students being involved along with neighborhood residents. Fosse said everyone
involved needs to understand that the mural is not permanent and the Creekside Shelter
will likely be replaced in the next few years. Robinson agreed with Fosse an added the
Creekside shelter still has a few years left in it.
Bollinger explained since the $1,000 approved at the last meeting was intended for
Wetherby, the Committee needs to make a revised motion to include the Creekside
Shelter.
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Page 3 of 4
MOTION: William moved to recommend reallocating $1000 from the Wetherby Shelter
mural project to supporting a mural at the Creekside Park Shelter and completion of the
Wetherby Park Shelter ceiling. Seconded by Finlayson. Motion passed 6:0.
ARTSFEST - KIDSTENT
Bollinger said a formal invitation to artists to participate in the Kidztent would be
completed and made public in about a week. The project is moving along well
COMMITTEE TIME/UPDATES
Bollinger informed the committee that the Poetry in Public Art Project is moving along
well. The wall at the US Bank Building and Drive thru area is the likely location to display
the selected poems and corresponding art. Kabat told the committee that art
submissions for this project are due on May 8th and the poets will be responsible for
selecting the artwork.
Bollinger announced the Lemme Leopard will be unveiled on May 22"d at 9:00 a.m. The
University of Iowa Steel Drum Band will be .providing entertainment.
Robinson offered that the concrete block wall on the East side of the Mercer Park old
pool building would be a great place for future mural projects. That wall attracts a lot of
graffiti and is very close to Tate and South East Junior High.
ADJOURNMENT
Fosse motioned to adjourn; Carney seconded. Meeting adjourned at 3:42 pm. Next
meeting scheduled for May 7, 2009.
Minutes submitted by Nate Kabat.
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Page 4 of 4
Public Art Advisory Committee
Attendance Record
2009
Name Term
Ex Tres
1/8
2/5
3/5
4/2
Annadora Khan O1/O1/11 X O/E x X
Data ne Williamson 01/01/12 X X X X
Jan Finla son Ol/O1/11 X X X X
Mark Seabold O1/Ol/10 X X X O/E
Patrick Carne 01/01/12 O X X X
Rick Fosse X X O/E X
Terr Robinson X X X X
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
TUESDAY, May 19, 2009 FINAL
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
2b 2
Members Present: Newman Abuissa, Dianne Day, Wangui Gathua, Yolanda Spears, Eric Kusiak.
Staff Present: Stefanie Bowers.
Others Present: Libris Fidelis.
Call to Order
Abuissa called the meeting to order at 18:03 p.m.
Public Comment on Items Not on the Agenda
Mr. Fidelis referenced a concern with a friend who was evicted from Public Housing. Mr. Fidelis
would like the Human Rights Commission to provide assistance and or guidance in such matters.
Bowers said she would inquire about the eviction process as it relates to public housing and report
back to Mr. Fidelis.
Recommendations to Council (Become effective only after separate Council action)
Consideration of the Minutes of the April 21 2009 Meeting
Motion: Day, seconded Kusiak. Minutes approved 5-0.
July 4 Parade
Commissioners Gathua, Abussia, Day and Kusiak will be the representatives of the Commission for
the parade.
Mission Statement
Commissioners worked on a mission statement. Bowers will present a final draft to the Commission at
the next meeting.
Programming 2009
The Civil Society program will be continued in the fall. Day will continue to work with this event.
Diversity Dialogues will be held on June 22 and June 29, Commissioners Spears and Abuissa signed
up to volunteer to assist. Commissioners will continue to work on a program for airing on City Channel
4 as well as review possible films for future showings. Bowers mentioned an immigration advocacy
group that was planning some upcoming activities. Day would be the person of contact for any future
meetings.
Reports of Commissioners
Gathua reported that she will be holding a graduation party for her daughters. Day mentioned a film
Ten More Good Years, that the Senior Center will be showing the week of May 25th. Abussia reported
he will be taking a trip to Damascus, Syria.
Adjournment
There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at
19:01. Motion: Kusiak, seconded by Gathua. Passed: 5-0.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2009
(Meeting Date)
NAME TERM
EXP.
1/27
2/24
3/24
4/21
5/19
6/16
7/21
8/18
9115
10/20
11117
12115
Newman
Abuissa 1/1/10 P P X X X
VACANT 1/1/10 A A R R V
Eric Kusiak 1/1/10 A P X X X
Dell Briggs 1/1/11 P P X X A
Yolanda Spears 111/11 P P X A X
Corey Stoglin 1/1/11 A A A A A
Dianne Day 1/1/12 P P X X X
Wangui Gathua 1/1/12 P P X X X
Martha
Lubaroff 1/1/12 A P X A A
KEY:
P =Present
A =Absent
NM = No meeting
NMNQ = No meeting, no quorum
R =Resigned
V =Vacant
o~~J -
2b(3)
MINUTES APPROVED
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
MAY 21, 2009 - 7:30 PM -FORMAL
CITY HALL, EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Ann Freerks, Charlie Eastham, Michelle Payne, Tim Weitzel,
Elizabeth Koppes
MEMBERS ABSENT: Wally Plahutnik, Josh Busard
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Miklo, Sara Greenwood Hektoen
OTHERS PRESENT: None
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
The Commission voted 5-0 (Plahutnik, Busard absent) to amend Title 14, Zoning to:
Add a Business Services land use category
Modify the street width standard for institutional uses in residential zones; and
• Clarify applicable regulations to and allow minor modifications to site development
standards in the Public Zone.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chairperson Ann Freerks.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
ZONING CODE ITEM:
Discussion of amendments to Title 14, Zoning to:
• Add a Business Services land use category
• Modify the street width standard for institutional uses in residential zones; and
• Clarify applicable regulations to and allow minor modifications to site development
standards in the Public Zone.
Miklo explained that a new zoning code was adopted about four years ago. Approximately once a year,
Staff tries to do "clean-up" amendments for areas that need further clarification or revision.
Miklo explained that the first amendment before the Commission deals with the location of institutional
uses in residential zones, such as, daycare centers, churches and private schools. Current code says
that these uses are allowed by special exception in residential zones. In some cases, they are
provisional uses provided they are on streets greater than 28 feet in width. The previous code, prior to
2005, used language that said "streets greater than 28 feet in width or collector or arterial streets." In
rewriting the code, the language was simplified and the "collector or arterial street" wording was left off
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 21, 2009 -Formal
Page 2
under the assumption that any such street would be greater than 28 feet in width. Since that time, Staff
has discovered that that is not the case and that Iowa City does have several collector or arterial streets
that are only 25 feet wide. These streets do not have parking allowed on them so they function in a way
that allows them to carry the amount of traffic that a collector street would.
Miklo said that recently a church applied for a special exception to expand and Staff discovered that
technically they cannot do so under current code because the street they are on is only 25 feet in width.
Prior to 2005, with the previous language regarding "collector or arterial streets" the special exception to
expand could have been allowed. Staff is recommending changing the language back to the 2005
wording, which would allow expansion on a collector/arterial street that is of a width less than 28 feet.
Staff is also proposing some flexible language for existing uses such as a daycare that might be on a
narrower street; this would allow the Board of Adjustment to consider them on a case by case basis.
Miklo summarized that the language changes would essentially get the code back to where it was in 2005
while allowing for some flexibility and for the Board to take into account traffic concerns on a case by case
basis.
Miklo explained that the second proposed amendment to the zoning code has to do with a category called
"Business Services." This category came about when the Commission was considering the PIP Printing
rezoning on Mormon Trek Boulevard. During those discussions there were questions as to whether the
appropriate zoning would be CI-1 Intensive Commercial or CO-1 Office Commercial. Part of the question
was whether or not PIP was really a heavy printing plant and therefore in need of quasi-industrial zoning
or if it was appropriate in an office setting. Staff feels PIP is appropriate in an office setting despite the
fact that it does fairly extensive printing. It serves a lot of businesses, is a fairly clean operation and does
not generate a lot of truck traffic. As a result of those discussions, Staff proposes the addition of a
Business Services land use category that would include things such as printing companies.
The final amendment has to do with the Public Zone, Miklo said. Prior to 2005, "Public Zone" simply
denoted that an area was zoned public and was owned by a government entity. There was very little, if
any, regulation of those public entities. Under the 2005 code, the government entities on par or below the
City of Iowa City in terms of hierarchy are able to be regulated for zoning purposes; this category would
include the school district and the county government. Miklo said there is a question as to whether the
City can regulate the state or the federal government. After the Public Zone was established, the City put
in some regulations but failed to refer to other necessary standards. There also was no minor
modification procedure in place for the Public Zone, though there was for all other zones. Miklo
summarized that this would basically be two amendments to the Public Zone: 1) referring to all of the
standards that all of the other zones refer to, and 2) adding the minor modification process to allow for
some relief if for some reason the standards cannot be met. Miklo noted that there would be a test that
any minor modification would have to go through that would be determined by a staff committee.
Miklo offered to answer any questions the Commission might have.
Eastham asked about paragraph 14-4B-1A-14. He said that the way that it is written makes it unclear as
to what alternate approval criteria are to be applied to the two sections that the paragraph references.
Eastham said that as he understands it the alternate approval criteria is different for those two sections.
Eastham wondered if the wording could be looked at and perhaps changed for better consistency.
Freerks asked if what Eastham wished to do was to reference something specific. Eastham said that was
correct; as he understands it presently, the alternate approval criteria to be used for 2D-5 and 2F-5 are
different, but the paragraph does not actually say that they are different. Payne said the wording is such
that it is almost as if it refers to the last section. Eastham said he would definitely prefer that paragraph
18 be consistent with the three paragraphs before it.
Freerks asked about making the change to a Business Services section and then removing "Printing,
Publishing, Lithography" from Manufacturing and Retail Uses, and whether that would impact any existing
businesses. She asked specifically about the area of town behind La Casa and a printing operation
located there. Miklo explained that that was a CI-1 zone and that the operation would be considered an
allowable use, office use, and would not become non-conforming.
Planning and Zoning Commission
May 21, 2009 -Formal
Page 3
Freerks asked about paragraph 14-4B-4D-6D, the section of code which would change the language
concerning street width requirements for institutional uses in residential neighborhoods. Freerks noted
that the traffic plan had to be approved "by the City," a reference she found to be rather vague. Miklo
replied that the review would be done in conjunction with the site plan review and that "the City" referred
to the collective departments engaged in that process. Greenwood Hektoen suggested changing the
wording to: "This plan must be reviewed and approved by the City's Traffic Engineering Planner," and
leave off the part that says "by the City." Freerks said she wondered if the wording had been framed in
the collective to avoid putting too much power in one individual's opinion. Miklo explained that while it is a
collective process, thus the terminology "the City," generally the opinion of the Traffic Engineer is deferred
to.
Miklo returned to Eastham's point, stating that in his review he did not find a parallel to the language
Eastham had suggested. Miklo said that he did not have an issue with breaking the section down into
two parts, and that he believed it could help clarify things. Greenwood Hektoen suggested changing the
language to "the respective sections," to help clarify. Eastham said that was fine with him, but that he
would ask Staff to review the two or three preceding paragraphs. Miklo suggested making it as close as
possible to the other sections to have parallel terminology. Freerks added that it would be good to
reference them within one another for clarity's sake.
Freerks opened the public hearing.
No one wished to speak and the public hearing was closed.
Koppes motioned to approve the zoning amendments with the changes suggested by Eastham
and Miklo.
Payne seconded.
Eastham said that he felt it was very commendable on Staffs part to undergo this periodic review of the
code to try to correct problems and errors. Freerks said that this review process was something they had
committed to as a Staff and as a Commission and that it has shown to be working and will continue to do
so in the future.
A vote was taken and the motion carried 5-0 (Plahutnik, Busard absent).
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: May 7, 2009:
Payne noted an error in the minutes.
Eastham motioned to approve the minutes as corrected.
Weitzel seconded.
The minutes were approved on a vote of 5-0 (Plahutnik, Busard absent).
OTHER:
The Commission discussed who would be attending the next City Council meeting on their behalf.
ADJOURNMENT:
Payne motioned to adjourn.
Koppes seconded.
The meeting was adjourned on a 5-0 vote at 7:51 p.m. (Plahutnik and Busard absent).
Iowa City Planning 8 Zoning Commission
Attendance Record
2009
cnonnnl MFFTINr
Name Term
Ex ices
1115
215
315
412
4116
5/7
5121
J. Busard 05/11 X X X X X X O/E
C. Eastham 05/11 X X X X X X X
A.Freerks 05/13 X X X X X OIE X
E. Ko es 05/12 O/E X X X X X x
_
M. Pa ne 05/10 X O/E X X x X X
W Plahutnik 05/10 X X OIE X O/E X O/E
T. Weitzel 05/13 X X X X X X X
INFnAMAI MFFTINr~
Name Term
Ex fires
1/12
212
312
3130
J. Busard 05/11 O/E X X X
C. Eastham 05/11 X X X X
A. Freerks 05/13 X X X X
E. Ko es 05/12 O/E X X X
M. Pa ne 05/10 X x X X
W. Plahutnik 05/10 X X X X
T. Weitzel 05/13 O/E X X X
Key:
X =Present
O =Absent
O/E = AbsenUExcused
2b 4
IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
MONDAY, APRIL 27, 2009--5:30 P.M.
FINAL
CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, 10 S. LINK ST.-TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Laura Bergus, Hans Hoerschelman, Gary Hagen, Robert Kemp,
Brett Gordon
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Mike Brau, Bob Hardy
OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Goding, Saul Mekies, Beth Fisher, Craig O'Brien, Lee
Grassley, Jonathon Rattner, Holly Berkowitz, Phil Meany, Susan
Rogusky, Michael McBride, Phil Phillips
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
None at this time.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
Grassley reported that Mediacom has acquired digital-to-analog converter boxes so they can
again offer free basic cable to non-subscribers for a six month period after the June 12 transition
to digital transmission by all broadcasters is complete. Discussions with the City on moving the
access channels to digital transmission have been on hold for a while but will resume shortly.
The TV Guide channel has been removed from the channel lineup. Hardy said Lowe informed
him that her position with the Iowa City Community School District will likely be eliminated as
part of the budget cuts. Hoerschelman said the Commission needs to monitor the situation and
may need to encourage the school board to not let the school channel regress. Hardy said that a
draft of PATV's new contract has been developed and there are some substantial changes in the
language regarding community programming and what would happen if PATV were to dissolve.
It is now in PATV's hands for review. The draft will come to Commission for review after the
City and PATV have worked out the language. Gordon said the contract should contain some
benchmarks for evaluating performance. Hoerschelman said Commissioners should provide him
a list of any concerns they have regarding what the contract should address.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Hagen nominated Hoerschelman for chair. Kemp seconded the nomination. Hoerschelman was
unanimously elected chair. Hoerschelman nominated Bergus for vice-chair. Hagen seconded
the nomination. Bergus was unanimously elected vice-chair.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Hagen moved and Bergus seconded a motion to approve the amended February2009 minutes.
The motion passed unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
Hagen thanked Mekies for his years if service on the Commission and said that Mekies had been
a very constructive voice on the Commission.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mekies said it was a privilege to serve on the Commission. Over the past years there has been a
huge improvement in the programming on the local access channels partly as a result of the work
of the Commission. Mekies encouraged the Commission to continue to ask probing questions so
the improvements are maintained and continue.
SENIOR CENTER REPORT
Rattner showed excerpts from the video he has been using at presentations he has been giving,
including at the at the National Council on Aging conference in Las Vegas. The video presents
the activities of Senior Center Television, including the intergenerational project featuring
seniors and English as a second language students. SCTV has a new website, www.icsctv.net,
which supports streaming SCTV programs.
MEDIACOM REPORT
Grassley reported that Mediacom has acquired digital-to-analog converter boxes so they can
again offer free basic cable to non-subscribers for a six month period after the June 12 transition
to digital transmission by all broadcasters is complete. Discussions with the City on moving the
access channels to digital transmission have been on hold for a while but will resume. shortly.
The TV Guide channel has been removed from the channel lineup. The channel originally
dedicated the entire screen to a scrolling program listing but over the years more of the screen
was devoted to advertising. Only three channels listings are shown on the screen at a time and it
takes about four minutes to scroll through the entire channel lineup. The channel may return on
the digital tier. Grassley said that there will be a migration of channels from analog transmission
to digital transmission to make space for the DOCSIS 3.0 high speed data and high definition
channels. Satellite dish providers typically have 70-80 high definition channels. Mediacom
averages 26. Additional discussions are needed with City officials to discuss Mediacom's
proposal to move the local access channels to the digital tier. Bergus asked what the benefit
would be for subscribers under Mediacom's proposal. Grassley said DOCSIS 3.0 high-speed
Internet service could be implemented and high definition channels could be added. Bergus
asked if the move to all digital transmission wasn't going to occur anyway. Grassley said that it
will but is scheduled for February 2012. Mediacom would like to make the transition sooner and
is willing to make some concessions to do so. Grassley said Mediacom is initiating a program in
which they will donate money to the Arbor Day Foundation to purchase one tree for every
subscriber who changes to online billing.
ACESS CHANNELS AND THE DIGITAL TRANSITION
Hardy reviewed the discussions and information presented at previous meetings. In exchange for
some or all of the local access channels moving to the digital basic tier Mediacom would offer
the channels streaming video and video-on-demand capability. Mediacom would implement
DOCSIS 3.0 high speed Internet and offer more high definition channels. The ability to view the
access channels would be lost for about 35% of all subscribers. In determining which access
channels might move the access channel representatives determined that public access, the
ability to cablecast government meetings, and live community events at the library were
priorities. Hardy noted there was a document in the meeting packet prepared by Brau that
explains the methodology he used to determine an estimate of the range of viewers capable of
viewing the local access channels if they were transmitted in a digital format. Grassley said that
the video-on-demand service would be able to accommodate as many viewers at one time as
wish to use the service. The streaming video service would have a theoretical limit to the
number of viewers who could access the programs, but that is something that needs to be
investigated and a reasonable capacity established. McBride said that one reason the University
channel supports the Mediacom proposal is that even if they do lose some potential viewers in
the short run, they will be return once Mediacom is all digital in 2012. Once a viewer switches
to a satellite provider, presumably for more high definition channels, they are likely lost forever.
Hardy said any recommendation from him would come before the Commission for their
consideration and recommendation to the City Council.
CONSUMER ISSUES
Hardy referred to the complaint report in the meeting packet. Hardy said there have been some
problems with artifacting on the channels in the 30s. The loss of the TV Guide has generated a
number of complaints. Grassley said that community specific information about channel lineups
will be coming soon to Mediacom's website. Hoerschelman asked if Mediacom has a cap on
Internet speeds or has plans to initiate one. Grassley said they do not have a cap and have no
plans for one. Mediacom does monitor usage.
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA REPORT
McBride reported that the University channel will cablecast three graduation ceremonies live and
tape seven for playback. Previous graduation ceremonies had been in Hancher Auditorium,
which enabled live coverage. The number of productions is expected to decline in May and
June.
KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
O'Brien introduced Phil Meany who will eventually be assuming all responsibilities for
Kirkwood's cable TV activities. Kirkwood's quarterly report was included in the meeting
packet. Student productions are winding down with the end of the semester. Volleyball games
are planned to be cablecast live in the fall. Upcoming shows include the spring jazz concert, the
fashion merchandising department's fashion show, and a flower show presented by the
horticulture students. Kirkwood is exploring offering their programming to local broadcasters
for airing on their digital multiplexed channels.
PATV REPORT
Goding said PATV continues to shoot talks at Prairie Lights once a month. Live and Local
recently featured the recently re-named Everett Conner Center, now Access to Independence,
and will tape representatives from the Amana Renaissance Fair for the next episode. Recent
staff-assisted programs include the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Piece by Piece, Tom's
Guitar Show, the College of Self Knowledge, the Weekly Open Contact Improvisational Dance
Jam, and Quest for Meaning. The next board meeting will be the May 14 at 7 p.m. PATV will
be closed for spring cleaning before 5 p.m. on April 30. A pilot run of one of the segments of
PATV's media literacy workshop will be offered May 16 at the public library form 2-5 p.m. The
next guidelines class will be May 3 at 10 a.m. Upgrades to the studio and playback system are
planned.
LIBRARY REPORT
Fisher reported that on May 30 the library channel's programming will be related to Irving
Webber all day as part of Irving Webber Days. The Irving Webber Days history lecture will be
Thursday May 7t" on the history of broadcasting in Iowa and will be carried live on the library
channel. The reception for Ellen Buchanan honoring her years of doing interviews with notable
Iowa City citizens will by May 15.
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT REPORT
Lowe provided a written report. Hardy said Lowe informed him that her position will likely be
eliminated as part of the budget cuts. Hoerschelman said the Commission needs to monitor the
situation and may need to encourage the school board to not let the school channel regress.
CITY CHANNEL REPORT
Hardy reported that the Community Television Service has been working with Elderly Services
on a series of programs. Other programs planned are with the Johnson County Historical
Society, the Foreign Relations Council and the Iowa City Junior Service League. The
Community Voice program has been developing an idea for a series of biographies of local
artists. Four pieces on the Women's Resource and Action Center are ready for cablecast for the
Mayor's monthly notable nonprofit program. The Media Unit has been busy covering the
special City Council meetings. Other programs include the Southeast District Planning Forum, a
sales tax forum, and a program on preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. Work
continues on a program about universal house design.
PATV CONTRACT
Hardy said that a draft has been developed and there are some substantial changes in the
language regarding community programming and what would happen if PATV were to dissolve.
It is now in PATV's hands for review. The draft will come to Commission for review after the
City and PATV have worked out the language. Gordon said the contract should contain some
benchmarks for evaluating performance. Hoerschelman said Commissioners should provide him
a list of any concerns they have regarding what the contract should address. Goding said they
have reviewed the draft and will request another meeting with the City. Goding said the draft
contract contains many benchmarks. Gordon asked if PATV could provide data on the use of
cameras bt people other than the board and staff. Bergus said PATV should be required to make
the equipment available to the public, but who chooses to use is outside of PATV's control.
Goding suggested that programming data submitted to the Commission might need to be
reviewed. At one time data was provided on all the access channels in a similar way. That is no
longer done. Brau said at one point the Commission asked for very specific types of
programming data from each channel. The categories of data were the number of programs and
programming hours of new channel-produced programs, replayed channel-produced programs,
new imported programs, replayed imported programs, and in the case of PATV only, new and
replayed community programming. At one point the local access channels requested that these
monthly reports be submitted only quarterly as the record keeping was burdensome and that each
channel should determine what information they provided. The Commission consented to that
request. PATV continued to provide programming data as they always had. Hardy said the
access channels felt reporting should reflect their channel's mission rather than a standardized
format.
TRIENNIAL REVIEW
Hardy said he received some questions from Hagen. Brau said the financial section had been
completed for some time but now is being updated with data from the first quarter of 2009.
ADJOURNMENT
Bergus moved and Hagen seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment was at 7:32 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael Brau
Cable TV Administrative Aide
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
01/01/03 to CURRENT
Meeting Kimberly Saul Meikes Brett Castillo Terry Smith Jim Pusack
Date Thrower
6/2/03 x x x x x
7/28/03 x x x x x
8/25/03 X X X X 0/C
9/22/03 X X X X O/C
10/27/03 x x x x o/c
11 /24/03 x x o/c x x
12/15/03 o/c o/c x x x
1 /2/04 x o/c x x x
1 /26/04 x_ x x x x
2/23/04 x o/c x o/c x
3/22/04 x x x x x
4/.26/04 x x x x O/C
5/24/04 x x O/C x x
6/28/04 X X X O/C X
7/26/04 O/C X X X X
8/26/04 did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet
9/27/04 X X X X X
10/25/04 X X
11 /04 Did not meet Did not meet Did not meet Did not Did not meet
meet
12/20/04 X X X X X
1 /24/05 X X X X X
2/28/05 X X X X
Gary Hagen
3/8/05 X X X X X
3/25/05 X O X X X
4/25/05 x_ o/c X_ X_ X
5/23/05 X_ o x vacanc X
James
Ehrmann X_ x_ Bebe
Balant ne x
6/27/05 X x X X X
X Michael
Chritians
7/25/05 O X X X_ X
9/26/05 0 X X 0 X
10/31 /05 X X o/c X X
11 /28/05 X X X X X
1 /23/06 o/c X X O X
2.27/06 X X X 0 X
3/27/06 o/c X X John
Weaterson X
X
4/24/06 X X X X X
5/22/06 0 X x/o 0 X
6/26/06 0 X Vacant 0 X
Nick Parker
7/24/06 x x x X
8/24/06 X x M. Wietin~ o/c X
9/25/06 x x x 0/c X
10/23/06 x X x o/c X
10/30/06 x x x vacant X
11 /27/09 X X X X
12.18/06 X_ X X X
Brett
Gordon
1 /22/07 X X X_ X_ X
2/26/07 X X X X X
3/26/07 Vacant x o/c x_ X
4/23/07 Vacant X X X X
Hoerschelm
an
521 /07 X_ X_ o/c X x
6/26/07 X X X X X
7/23/07 X X X X X
9/24/07 X X_ o/c o/c X
10/22/07 x x o/c o/c x
11 /26/07 X X X X X
12/18/07 X X o/c X X
1 /28/08 X X o/c X X
3/3/08 X X X X X
3/24/08 Bob Kem
x x o/c X X
4/28/08 X X X X X
6/3/08 X X X X X
6/23/08 X X X X 0/C
7/28/08 X X X X X
8/25/08 X X X o/c X
9/23/08 X X X X X
10.27/08 X X X o/c X
11 /24/08 Did not meet
12/15/08 X X X X X
1 /26/09 X X X X o/c
2/243/09 X' x o/c o/c X
Laura Bergus
4/27/09 X X X X X
6/1/09 x x x vacant x
(X) =Present
(O) =Absent
(O/C) = Absent/Called (Excused)
2b 5
FINAL
MINUTES
City of Iowa City Animal Care Task Force
Tuesday May 26, 2009 - 5:30 P.M.
ICPL Room C
Call to Order: Meeting called to order at 5:38 p.m.
Members Present: Pat Farrant, Teresa Kopel, Jane McCune, Paula Kelly, Lisa
Drahozal Pooley
Members Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present: Mary Blount, George Hospodarsky
Recommendations to City Council:
Approval of Minutes/Consent Calendar:
1. Friday April 24th, 2009 minutes unanimously approved as submitted via email.
Old Business:
2. Feral Cat Pilot Project update
Mary Blount of Iowa Humane Alliance reported that she had spoken to several
businesses in the pilot area that are interested in participating in the pilot project. Cost of
the pilot is projected at approximately $2000. Funding has already been taken care of
through private donations. Mary has several experienced volunteers lined up to help with
the project.
Task Force members requested that Mary Blount provide a written proposal to Misha for
submission to the City's legal office for approval.
3. Flood update and Center plans -land selection
Lisa Drahozal Pooley reported the following information, received via a phone call
conversation with Misha Goodman earlier today:
1. FEMA has officially declared that the old shelter is at least 52.7% damaged and is
therefore eligible for replacement. FEMA will pay to replace with a building of the same
size and scope; however, monetary amounts are not yet known. Misha also plans a
capital campaign to further expand the new shelter. FEMA requires at least three
different location possibilities.
4. Clarify Task Force definition and direction
Lisa Drahozal Pooley reported the following information, received via a phone call
conversation with Misha Goodman earlier today:
Misha is currently researching the roles of other city boards and commissions to
determine the best structure for Animal Services.
5. Fees/ordinances/permits
New Business:
Task Force Member Comment:
Staff Comment:
Citizen Comment:
6:50 p.m. meeting adjourned.
2
2n~sL
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2009
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
APPROVED
MEMBERS PRESENT: Esther Baker, Thomas Baldridge, Lindsay Bunting Eubanks, William Downing,
Jim Ponto, Ginalie Swaim, Alicia Trimble
MEMBERS ABSENT: Pam Michaud, Frank Wagner
STAFF PRESENT: Christina Kuecker
OTHERS PRESENT: Libris Fidelis, Martha Greer, Ann Holton, Steve Somsky
CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Bunting Eubanks called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANYTHING NOT ON THE AGENDA:
There was none.
CERTIFICATES OF APPROPRIATENESS:
428 South Governor Street.
Kuecker said there are several small projects associated with this general renovation and kitchen
remodeling for the property. She said she would break the project down to examine each facet
individually.
Regarding the siding, Kuecker said the owners have not decided if they will remove the asbestos siding,
but they would like to get approval for that to restore the siding underneath. Kuecker said that meets the
guidelines, and staff recommends approval.
Kuecker showed a floor plan of the rear of the house where there is a one-story addition. She showed a
window that the applicant would like to remove and fill in and a single window the owners would like to
change to a bank of three windows to allow more light into the kitchen.
Kuecker said that the windows are double hung, metal clad wood windows. She said that in general the
guidelines allow for the addition of more windows if they match the type, style, and configuration that is
appropriate for the style of the house. Kuecker said staff feels this is consistent with the style, and if the
new windows have trim that matches the other windows, then staff is recommending approval. Kuecker
showed another view of the location where the bank of three windows would be.
Kuecker stated that the third portion of the project involves two doors. She said that currently there is a
double French door going into the kitchen. Kuecker said the applicant would like to remove that and use a
single French door to make the opening smaller.
Kuecker showed an interior photograph of the second door to be removed and pointed out that the door is
not functional. She said the applicant would like to remove the door and either fill in the wall or place a
window in that location. Kuecker said staff feels that either of those would be appropriate for this house.
Kuecker said that the fourth facet of the project concerns some foundation repairs on one portion of the
house. She said it appears that the owners will just be filling in some joints. Kuecker said that, provided
that the appropriate type of mortar is used, staff finds that is in accordance with the guidelines.
Regarding the porch, Kuecker stated that in a couple of locations the piers that used to be rusticated
concrete block have been replaced with plain concrete block. She said the applicant would like to change
them to match the more historic piers and do other general repair of the porch to make it more stable.
Kuecker said staff finds that replacement of the non-historic materials with more historic materials is in
accordance with the guidelines and recommends approval.
Historic Preservation Commission
May 28, 2009
Page 2
Kuecker stated that overall; staff recommends approval of the project as presented, with the conditions
that the trim on the windows and the doors match the existing trim, the option of using a window in place
of the north door or filling in the door opening, and that the mortar used match the density, color, and joint
profile of the existing mortar. She said that if a window is used, it should be a solid wood or metal clad
wood, double hung window.
Greer, the owner of the property, said the basic project is a total kitchen remodel. She said that the
adjustments to the window and patio door and such are to make it so that she can put in a usable kitchen.
Greer said that it will allow for counter space but still be in keeping with the style of the house.
Greer said she is working on this project with other Governor Street neighbors, and they hope to break
even and bring another house back in the process.
Regarding photograph two, Swaim asked what the white, vertical seam is. Greer responded that at some
point a previous owner added that strange, little addition to the left. Greer said that the foundation itself is
also different in that location.
Baldridge asked if the seam would disappear if the shingling were removed. Greer said that if she
removed the shingling, she would replace it with matching cedar siding to match the rest of it. She said
that there are some broken pieces of asbestos siding that she has tried to look underneath. Greer said
that everything seems solid underneath, as has been true for other houses she has worked on Governor
Street. She said that the seam would go away with matching lap siding.
Bunting Eubanks asked if, as a point of reference, the owner understands about the mortar and why the
Commission has requirements for that. Bunting Eubanks said the idea is to not allow the foundation to
collapse. Greer confirmed
MOTION: Ponto moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 428
South Governor Street, as proposed, with the staff conditions as follows: 1) the trim on the bank
of three windows match the trim of the existing windows; 2) the applicant having the option of
using a window in place of the north door or filling in the door opening. If a window is used, it
shall be a solid wood or metal-clad solid wood double hung window; and 3) the mortar used for
tuck-pointing must match the density, color, and joint profile of the existing mortar. Trimble
seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0 (Michaud and Wagner absentZ.
320 College Street.
Kuecker said this property is the Trinity Episcopal Church, and she showed a photograph of the building.
She stated that it is an Iowa City landmark and is also a National Register property. Kuecker said the
application concerns several modifications in order to accommodate a building expansion.
Kuecker said that the applicant proposes to excavate the basement area in order to create a usable
space in what is currently a crawl space. She added that the lot is virtually completely filled, and this is the
only way the church can add more space to the existing facility. Kuecker said the church plans to reclaim
the stone being taken out and face the new foundation with that stone. She said that staff believes
excavating below the building and creating usable space below ground is an appropriate way to retain the
existing use of the building while minimizing the changes to the historic appearance. Kuecker said that
because the applicant is planning to use the original stone as a veneer, there will be minimal impact on
the historic character of the building.
Kuecker stated that the second portion of the project involves a stair tower to allow access to the
basement. She said the applicant proposes a stair tower on the Gilbert Street facade, and it would be
clad in the same board and batten siding as the rest of the building and have the same dental work, and
the stained glass window will be used here. Kuecker showed a different elevation than provided in the
packet, because the applicant discovered that the windows proposed for the two sides would not be
allowed because of building codes. She said the applicant therefore eliminated the side windows and put
the stained glass window on the more prominent facade.
Historic Preservation Commission
May 28, 2009
Page 3
Kuecker said that in the existing building behind the stair tower there is a stained glass window and board
and batten siding that will all be retained. She said that a person inside the building will be able to tell that
the stair tower is a later addition, because the original facade will still be on the inside of the stair tower.
Kuecker said the guidelines do allow for additions to existing buildings. Although this addition is on the
most visible facade of the building, it is staffs opinion that it is designed to be unobtrusive to the building
and is a suitable addition to this facade of the building.
Kuecker said the third portion of the application involves a chimney removal. She stated that the north
elevation has a chimney that was likely a later addition when a heating system was upgraded or changed.
Kuecker said that the applicant would like to remove the chimney and repair the siding to match the rest
of the building. Kuecker said the applicant would like to do the same thing with the vent that is in the
peak.
Kuecker said the fourth segment involves a courtyard space. She said the configuration of the church
creates an internal courtyard that cannot be seen from any of the public right-of-ways, the alley, or any of
the streets. Kuecker said that inside the courtyard there is a lean-to that is only about five feet tall on one
edge. She said the applicant would like to take the lean-to down and rebuild it to be taller, allowing a more
useful space and allowing access to the organ. Kuecker said the wall would need to be moved to the
south to allow space into the organ chamber for cleaning and routine maintenance. She said that it would
be clad in board and batten siding with dentals.
Kuecker said the wall would end up being flush with the present wall. Swaim asked if the wall would be
moved out that far. Kuecker showed on the photo where the wall would be moved to, where it would be
longer, and where the roof would move up. She said the roof would cut across the taller facade, and
there would be some windows added to one wall. Kuecker said this would only be visible from within the
courtyard. She said that in order to do that work, the applicant would need to remove the glass vestibule
for access, but it would be rebuilt exactly as it is.
Baldridge asked if the windows would be gothic like the other ones. Kuecker showed a photo of what the
windows in the other addition that are similar to what is being proposed. She said they would not be
gothic windows but would be rectangular and smaller.
Kuecker said that staff believes the proposed work is compatible with the existing building and retains the
character of the building. She said that this is a way for the church to maintain its current location in the
historic building while allowing expansion for its congregation. Kuecker said she feels the applicant is
taking care to make sure the changes are compatible with the style of the building and the historic
integrity. She said that as many project materials as possible are going to be reclaimed or recycled.
Kuecker said that staff recommends approval as presented in the application.
Somsky said that he is the consultant for this project. Holton stated that she is the building chair for this
project. She said that the plan is to maintain a historic church.
Swaim commended the church for retaining its downtown location in an historic building. Holton said that
it is a conscious decision on the part of the church.
Ponto asked if access to the new basement would be only via the stair tower or if there will be another
access. Holton replied that under the narthex part of the church, which is an addition put on in the 1990s,
there will be an opening there as well. She said there will be access there to the lower level.
Downing asked if the part of the church the basement will be built under is the original church. Holton
confirmed this and said that it was built in 1871. Downing asked what is to the west of the newer
sanctuary. Somsky said that is the narthex.
Fidelis said that he wanted to make a statement as a citizen and believes he qualifies as a disinterested
party. He said that one of the points that was not made, although it may be in some of the written
materials that he has not yet read, is that this project would allow a few things. Fidelis said that it would
allow the church to expand its services and to meet its newer needs as the community grows.
Historic Preservation Commission
May 28, 2009
Page 4
Fidelis said it also allows the church to have a new foundation. He said the church is gaining space, but
also, foundations tend to deteriorate, and the longer one waits, the more expensive it becomes to repair.
Fidelis said that what is really being done here is the preservation of this historic church.
Fidelis said that over the time he has been here, as he has walked by this church, he has always admired
what it has done in terms of historic preservation. He said other organizations have appreciated the
historic nature of their buildings but haven't maintained it the way this church has. Fidelis said that this
church has done a good job, and as a citizen of this city, he really approves of this and thinks it should go
through.
Baldridge said he has been told by a member of the parish that this project will strengthen the foundation
of the church. He said that a similar renovation was recently accomplished at Saint Mary's.
Holton said that when the project was completed in 1996, the church worked on 2/3 to 3/4 of the walls to
stabilize them. She said, however, that one portion of the foundation is in deplorable condition, so the
church has to make some decisions now.
Bunting Eubanks said this is definitely a big undertaking. She said she wants to see the church keep its
original function, which is part of the historic nature of the building.
Downing said the Commission had experience with another basement replacement. He said the
contractor did not follow through with the replacement of the basement with reclaimed stone. Downing
said that in this case he has more confidence that this will be done as specified.
Holton stated that the church is attempting to become a LEED registered project. She said that reusing
material is a key ingredient of that, so this helps the church in two ways. Holton said the church is
committed to refacing the foundation, and that appeals to the congregation on both counts.
MOTION: Baldridge moved to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the application for 320
College Street as presented in the application. Baker seconded the motion. The motion carried on
a vote of 7-0 (Michaud and Wagner absent) ,
CONSIDERATION OF MINTUES FOR MAY 14, 2009.
MOTION: Baker moved to approve the minutes of the Historic Preservation Commission's May 14, 2009
meeting, as written. Baldridge seconded the motion. The motion carried on a vote of 7-0.
OTHER:
Kuecker said that at the last City Council meeting in the discussion of the Northside, the City Council
spoke again about energy efficiency. She said the City Council requested a memo from staff regarding
historic preservation and energy efficiency. Kuecker said there will be a copy of that in the Commission's
next packet. She said that if that memo is insufficient, the City Council would like to hold a work session
with the Historic Preservation Commission to discuss that issue.
Kuecker stated that at the Commission's next meeting, a representative from Adams' Architecture
Millwork will give a presentation on historically accurate storm windows, window replacement, trim and
millwork, etc. She said the presentation would be 15 to 20 minutes. Bunting Eubanks suggested filming
the presentation. Kuecker said that he had indicated he would be willing to present at other forums if
asked.
Kuecker said the City is searching for a representative from the Longfellow District for the Commission.
She asked Commission members to spread the word regarding this vacancy.
Regarding the energy efficiency issue, Bunting Eubanks asked Kuecker if she had time to look through
the list the Commission had compiled at the last meeting. Kuecker replied that she had not. Bunting
Eubanks suggested that the list of ideas could be on the memo sent to the City Council, and it could be
explained to the City Council that the Commission is working on this, but it is the Commission's busy time
Historic Preservation Commission
May 28, 2009
Page 5
of year. Kuecker added that she and her intern, Robert, are working on compiling a section of
recommendations on this issue for the guidelines.
Baldridge asked Kuecker if she had any idea of the cost of the windows that would be discussed in the
presentation. Kuecker did not have that information. Baldridge said that cost seems to constantly be the
argument by people who want to put in vinyl windows.
Bunting Eubanks said that the Commission does not regulate storm windows at all. Kuecker confirmed
this. She said a homeowner could use vinyl or metal storm windows.
Downing asked if the proposed Northside District passed the second reading at the City Council level.
Kuecker confirmed this and said that three readings are required, with the third vote happening on June
2.
Swaim asked about public comments to date. Bunting Eubanks said that there was such extensive public
discussion at the first reading that the City Council had basically asked people to speak only if they had
something new to add. The Commission discussed the recent ad that had been placed in the Press-
Citizen and the discussion and comments being made at the Council level.
Baldridge said that the house on Davenport Street that burned is in the proposed Northside District. He
asked what the ramifications would be for that property owner, if the proposed district were approved.
Kuecker said that the rebuilding would have to come through the design review/historic review process.
She said the new house would have to come before the Commission and meet the guidelines. Baldridge
asked if all of the additions that had been tacked on the back end could be replicated. Kuecker said that
would be a question for the building department. Swaim pointed out that it doesn't have to be an exact
replication but has to be sympathetic with the neighborhood
Kuecker said that if the house had been afour-unit apartment building or a house that had been divided
into four units, it could be built back that way. She said, however, that it was asingle-family house, so it
needs to be rebuilt as asingle-family house, according to the underlying zoning, regardless of historic
preservation.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m
Minutes submitted by Anne Schulte
Historic Preservation Commission
Attendance Record
2009
Name Term
Expires 1/08 2113 3112 4113 5114 5/28
Baldrid a 3/29111 X O/E X X X X
Baker 3/29/09 X X X O/E X X
Downin 3/29/10 X X X X X X
Eubanks 3129111 X X X X X X
Hirschman 3/29/11 -- -- X 0/E X X -- --
Michaud 3/29/09 X X O/E X X 0/E
Ponto 3/29/10 X X X X X X '
Swaim 3/29/09 X X X O/E 0/E X
Trimble 3/29/10 X X X X X X
Wagner 3/29/09 X X X X X O/E
Key:
X =Present
O =Absent
O/E = AbsenUExcused
2b 7
MINUTES APPROVED
IOWA CITY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
MAY 13, 2009 - 5:00 PM
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
Members Present: Ned Wood, Terry Hora, Caroline Sheerin, Barbara Eckstein
Members Excused: Edgar Thornton
Staff Present: Sarah Walz, Sarah Greenwood Hektoen
Others Present: Tim Waldron, Kate Wildman, Nancy Ringstrom, Devin Dykes
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None.
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Ned Wood at 5:00 p.m.
An opening statement was read by the Chair outlining the role and purpose of the Board and the
procedures governing the proceedings.
ROLL CALL: Hora, Sheerin, Wood and Eckstein were present.
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES FOR JANUARY 14TH AND JANUARY 20TH
2009:
Sheerin offered corrections to the January 14th minutes.
Eckstein moved to approve the minutes as amended.
Sheerin seconded.
The motion carried 4-0 (Thornton excused).
There were no corrections offered for the January 20th minutes.
Sheerin moved to approve the minutes.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 2
Hora seconded.
The minutes were approved 4-0 (Thornton excused).
SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS:
EXC09-00001: An application submitted by Faith Baptist Church for a special exception
to expand its church facility located in the OPD-8 (Planned Development Overlay) at 1251
Village Road.
Walz noted that she had distributed to Board members a copy of an e-mail she had received from
Lauren Johnson, a resident of the townhouses near the church. She had also distributed a site
map given to her by another resident of the same townhomes that indicated the names and
addresses of those who are in support of Staff's recommendations for the application.
Walz offered a brief summary of the Staff recommendation. According to current zoning code,
special exceptions for institutional uses such as churches, daycares, and schools in residential
zones can only be granted if the institution is located on a street of a width greater than 28 feet.
Walz said that this was not the way the previous zoning code had been written, and that in
reviewing this and other applications Staff realized that important language had been dropped
from this portion of the code when the most recent zoning code was adopted. Therefore, Staff is
recommending an amendment to the zoning code so that already-established institutional uses
will be able to make changes that require special exceptions. The amendment will require a
transportation review in addition to the ingress/egress and parking lot criteria that are already
considerations in granting special exceptions. Walz noted that in this particular instance, the
church is located on a 25-foot street; however, that street does not allow parking on either side.
As a result, the street actually has the function of a wider street. Walz advised that any
recommendation to approve the current application should be subject to Council approval of the
code amendment.
Walz said that the church would like to add a large garage/storage building to serve as on-site
storage and to house the church's vans. Staff's concern was how to make such a large building
fit into the surrounding residential neighborhood. Photographs provided by the church
demonstrate how close to the neighboring townhomes the church had originally intended to build
the structure. Walz said that the townhomes were unusual in that some of the townhouses
actually face onto the church property. Typically, townhouses are usually built to front on a
street, which allows for adequate separation due to a 15-20 foot setbacks and another 30-40 feet
for the street and street right of way. Some of the residents who live in the townhomes expressed
concerned about the proximity of the structure to their property line and the view it would afford
from their property. Walz said residents brought these concerns to Staff because they felt the
structure would impede their view and they wanted to see a design and location that fit in better
with the overall area.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 3
Staff recommended locating the garage in the back southwest corner of the parking area, rather
than along the northwest side. Staff believes that location is more appropriate because the garage
would then be viewed only from the back of neighboring properties and because there is already
a well established hedge in that area to screen the view of the abutting neighbor.
Walz noted that the Multi-family Design Standards ask that the church and garage be sided
similarly; however, Staff has suggested not using white siding (as the church is sided in) to avoid
an industrial appearance for the shed. The church has expressed a willingness to use siding more
akin to that which would be found in a residential neighborhood.
Staff believes that with the appropriate siding and placement on the lot, as well as some
additional screening around the building to break up its mass, the building could be a good fit for
the area.
In an aerial photograph of the property, there is a long, white, narrow structure in the location
Staff recommends for the garage. Wood asked Walz what this structure is. Walz replied that she
did not know and that the structure is no longer there. She noted that there is a 10-foot utility
easement along that property line. Hora asked who owned the hedge along that same property
line. Walz said that it looked as though the hedges were on the church's property.
Walz said there is a requirement in the code for non-conforming parking areas that states that any
time a facility such as this is increased by less than 50% the screening for parking areas must
come into compliance with code. If the facility was increased by more than 50% then the church
would have to come into compliance with all of the parking standards: the design of the parking
area, interior plantings, parking terminuses, etc. In this case, Walz said, the church needs only
to come into compliance with the screening requirement, and this is something that will be
reviewed at the time the building permit is applied for. Walz said there is some screening on the
south side of the parking lot, but the north and west sides of the lot will need to be brought into
compliance.
Sheerin asked how high the existing hedges were. Walz said she believed they were at least six
feet high. Walz said the kind of screening that would be required for the parking lot would be to
the S-2 standard, which is two to four feet tall. Sheerin asked if the church would be required to
keep the current hedge. Walz replied that the Board could add this as a condition. She noted
that the hedges on the other side of the lot, adjacent to the townhomes, actually belong to the
townhouses and would not be counted in terms of screening for the church parking lot.
Walz stated that Staff recommends approval of the application subject to the following
conditions:
1) City Council approval of an amendment to the zoning code to allow religious/private
group assembly uses along streets with a pavement width narrower than 28 feet.
2) Staff approval of a final design of the garage/storage building showing compliance with
the Multi-family Design Standards with regard to siding materials and landscape
screening to minimize views of the building.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 4
3) Location of the garage/storage building at the southwest corner of the parking lot,
adjacent to existing landscape.
4) Compliance with the screening requirements for non-conforming parking and loading
areas.
Hora asked for an explanation as to why a change in the zoning code was necessary if the use
and intensity were not being increased by the changes. Walz stated that it is correct that the
church's proposal does not increase the intensity of the use. However, she explained, the way
that the special exception criteria are written for uses such as churches in a residential zone
means a special exception can only be approved if the institution has access from a road greater
than 28 feet. Walz said that it is Staff's view that this change to the code was made in error;
when the zoning code was updated some language was inadvertently dropped. Hora asked if that
requirement applied even though the church was built on a 25 foot street prior to the
implementation of the new zoning codes. Walz said that the way the language is currently
written it does apply; thus, the need for the change to the zoning code. The new language will
look at the capacity of the street in relation to the institution rather than having a blanket
requirement of 28 feet. Staff feels this is an error in the code that is punitive in a way it was
never intended to be.
Wood asked if the Board needed to specify that the existing hedge must remain in place as
landscape barrier. Walz said that would be fine to do if it made the Board more comfortable.
Sheerin indicated her support for such a requirement, adding that a height requirement might also
be necessary.
Sheerin asked about the language requiring compliance for the screening for parking and loading
areas and what that had to do with this shed. Walz explained that this wording was present
because there is a requirement that when additional building space is added to the property the
institution must come into compliance with screening requirements for parking and loading
areas.
Eckstein asked if it has been the practice to date that the vehicles that will be stored in the garage
have been stored in the parking lot. Walz said that this was correct.
Sheerin asked if there was anywhere else on the lot where the building could be located, perhaps
closer to the church. Walz said that she believed that this was the only place to locate it without
impinging on the driveway and surface parking. Hora asked why the building could not be
located in the center of the lot, making it equidistant from all neighbors and closer to the church.
Sheerin asked what the grassy open area behind the church was currently used for. Walz said the
church could best answer their questions, though she was aware that the area was used for church
activities. She said that Staff would not be opposed to centering the building, and that their
primary concern was getting it away from the townhouses given the lack of screening and the
fact that the townhomes front toward the church. Eckstein emphasized that the townhomes are
quite close to the church's suggested location of the garage.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 5
Hora said it could make a difference which direction the garage faced. Walz said that one way
or another some property owner is going to be looking at the long-side of the building. By
placing the shed on that side of the lot, it will be the adjacent back-yards that face the shed most
nearly, not front-yards, and there is some existing vegetation to provide screening. Walz said
there is a difference in distance as well as in expectation of what kinds of buildings one might
expect to see from the front-yard versus their back-yard.
Hora asked if the 10-foot utility easement would act as the setback for the garage or if an
additional setback would be required. Walz said there would be no required setback beyond the
easement.
There were no further questions for Staff.
Wood opened the public hearing and invited the applicant to address the Board.
Tim Walter, Pastor of First Baptist Church, stated that the church had been in close
communication with Staff and is willing to fully comply with Staff's recommendations. He
offered to answer any questions the Board might have.
Sheerin asked Walter if the church used the grassy open area. Walter said that it is used
extensively and that the original location for the garage was intended to save as much of that area
as possible.
Eckstein asked if Walter was in agreement with additional landscape requirements proposed by
Staff as well as the siding materials and building location. Walter said that the church was in
agreement. He noted that the building's size is actually 30x48, not 38x40 as had been previously
stated. Walter said the building will be used for vehicle storage as well as storage for mowing
equipment and furniture for international students. He noted that the structure shown in the
aerial photograph was actually asemi-trailer that had been used as temporary storage but now is
gone.
Hora asked which direction the building would be facing. Walter said the entrance to the garage
would face to the west and the structure would run north to south. Walter noted that the hedges
that had been discussed are currently about 12 feet high. Sheerin asked how high the building
would be. Walter said it would have 9-10 foot sidewalls.
Wood corrected Walter, asking if he did not actually mean that the garage entrance would face
the east. Upon consideration, Walter agreed that the entrance would face the east and would run
lengthwise from north to south.
Eckstein asked if the existing hedges looked healthy. Walter said that they looked quite healthy.
There were no further questions for Walter, and Wood invited other speakers to approach the
podium.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 6
Katie Wildman, 3051 Wayne Avenue, #51, said that she lives in one of the townhouses that was
to face the structure in the original proposal. Wildman said that she originally had come to
object to the proposal, but that she is in full support of the amended proposal with Staff
recommendations. She said she certainly wished to support the church as they do many
wonderful things, and always have children utilizing the yard-space on church grounds.
Wildman said that she had submitted the map that showed the townhouse residents who
supported the building location in the Staff recommendations. She thanked Staff for their work
on the proposal and their recommendations. She said the neighbors were definitely in support of
additional screening, and reiterated that the neighbors want to see the church succeed in its
endeavors.
Nancy Ringstrom, 62 Deerfield Commons, questioned the fence that had been built years before
along the church's property line with the townhomes. She wondered if that fence had been
legally built as she had not been consulted prior to its installation. Walz advised that by law
property owners can build a fence of four feet or less on any area of their property and that doing
so does not require consulting the neighbors. Ringstrom asked why the parking lot at Deerfield
Commons appeared to jut into the area owned by the church and questioned where the property
line actually was. Walz said that she believes that the property line does change in that area and
that it was something that would have been established long ago when the area was subdivided.
Ringstrom said that when she purchased the townhome she had assumed that the lots ran parallel
to where the parking lot ended and it had been a surprise to her when the fence had been put up
so close to her front door. Walz explained that if an action requires a permit, Staff recommends
a good neighbor policy to the property owner of informing the neighbors of their intentions. In
the case of the garage, Walz said, the church had fully intended to do that prior to Staff
recommending it. Back when the fence went in, Walz said, the City would not have had the
opportunity to recommend that as no permit was required, and so it would be up to the owner of
the property to do so, but would not be required. Walz said this would be no different for any
residential owner. Fences are often built between residential properties without notifying
neighbors.
Devin Dykes, 14 Dunnegan Court, stated that he owned the property adjacent to the hedges in
the Staff proposed location for the garage. Dykes asked if the special exception would require
the church to maintain the hedges and if a height requirement would be set. Sheerin asked if the
hedge is on church property. Eckstein said that it had been agreed for discussion's sake that it
was. Walter explained that he believes the hedge was on the property line and that to his
knowledge the hedges have never been maintained by the property owner on the other side.
Dykes asked again if there would be a height requirement for the hedge since it was the primary
mode of screening for the building. Walz said her understanding was that the Board wished to
make a condition that the hedge be maintained at a minimum height. Sheerin agreed that this
was what the board wished to do, though it was not in the current recommendations. Dykes
asked what the number of feet would be for the height requirement. He noted that he is not
necessarily against the alternate location for the garage as long as there is a good hedge line.
Sheerin asked if the height of the current hedge would be sufficient for Dykes or if he was
looking for something higher. Walz said that one thing to consider is that the zoning code has an
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 7
S-3 screening standard for separating different uses, i.e., a residential use from an industrial or
commercial use. In that screening standard, the landscape screening is required to be a minimum
of six feet at maturity. Sheerin asked if that would be high enough. Walz said that she thinks
what the Board must ask itself is: what is reasonable? Sheerin said that if the hedge is currently
12 feet high, then a six foot minimum seems somewhat insufficient. She said she is also a little
concerned that it had not been determined to a certainty who owns the hedge.
Hora said his question is what happens if the church does not actually own the hedge and the
adjoining property is sold; the hedge could then be removed. Eckstein said that her
understanding is that the Board is saying that for this garage to be built on this site there must be
a screening hedge. She said if Hora's scenario should occur, then the church would be required
by the special exception to have a hedge on church property. Walz said that it should be kept in
mind that if the property that abuts the church removed the hedge, then they would be
intentionally removing their own screening-the screening that was intended to preserve their
view. If no one complained, the City would not do anything about the removal of the hedge.
However, if one of the neighboring property owners complained to the City that a hedge had
been removed, the City would be alerted to take action and would go back and look at the
requirements of the special exception and enforce them.
Greenwood Hektoen noted that it was not realistic to say that those particular hedges had to be
maintained at 12 feet; they could die, or be blown over by a tornado, etc. Walz said that these
things happen from time to time with changes of ownership, but that the trigger for enforcement
was neighbor complaints. Greenwood Hektoen advised the Board that they could require
screening to the S-3 standard or could require these particular hedges; it was their decision.
Eckstein asked if screening was understood in the language of the code to mean screening by
vegetation, and could not be replaced by a large fence, for example. Walz said that fences can be
substituted in certain circumstances, but that in this case she would recommend language for
"landscape screening" to the S-3 standard; the S-3 landscape standard would guarantee a height
of six feet and requires at least 50% of the plantings to be evergreen.
Dykes said that his main question had concerned the height requirement for the hedges. He said
he is not opposed to the building as long as the hedge is a decent height.
There were no other persons wishing to speak and the public hearing was closed.
Hora asked what was required for screening of non-conforming parking. Walz said screening
would have to be provided to screen the sides of the parking lot at an S-2 standard, two to four
feet in height. The intent of the screening is to provide some separation between properties and
to soften the view of a large parking area, as well as to provide a screen from any headlights in
the parking lot after dark. In this case, Walz said, it will also provide a dust buffer as the parking
lot in question is gravel. Walz noted that these parking lot screening requirements were not a
function of the special exception, rather were the result of the change to the property. Walz said
Staff makes it a practice to include these requirements in their recommendations just as a way of
drawing attention to the issue on the front-side. The Board could not grant relief from that
requirement. Hora said he was simply trying to assess the amount of landscaping needed.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 8
Wood invited a motion. Sheerin asked if the language for the hedge screening had been settled
upon. Staff and Greenwood Hektoen read the language for S-3 screening that is found in the
code.
Eckstein moved to recommend approval of special exception EXC09-00001, an application
to allow expansion of a church facility located in the OPD-8 (Planned Development
Overlay) at 1251 Village Road subject to the following conditions:
1) A landscape screen be maintained on the south side of the building in
compliance with the code's S-3 screening requirements;
2) City Council approval of an amendment to the zoning code to allow
religious/private group assembly uses along streets with a pavement width
narrower than 28 feet;
3) Staff approval of a final design of the garage/storage building showing
compliance with the Multi-family Design standards with regard to siding
materials and landscape screening to minimize views of the building;
4) Location of the garage/storage building at the southwest corner of the parking
lot, adjacent to existing landscape;
5) Compliance with the screening requirements for non-conforming parking and
loading areas.
Hora seconded the motion.
Sheerin outlined the findings of fact for the Specific Standards.
With respect to the requirement that vehicular access to the proposed use is limited to streets
with pavement width greater than 28 feet, the finding is that the paving width of Village Road is
25 feet and although the code offers no exception at this time for churches already established
along streets that do not meet the 28 foot standard, there is a proposed amendment to the code
that would change this requirement. The approval of the application would be subject to
changes to the code that allow for street widths of less than 28 feet when considering special
exceptions. The proposed garage/storage building will not generate additional traffic to the
facility or expand its capacity, so it will not change the existing traffic pattern of the church.
Because there is no parking along Village Road, it has a fair amount of traffic capacity.
With respect to the setback requirements, the garage/storage building is an accessory structure
and is therefore not subject to the principal building setback requirements. Furthermore, the
proposed location of the garage is at the northwest corner of the parking area and well behind the
rear plane of the building. The rear setback is in excess of 67 feet and the side setback is shown
at eight feet.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 9
The applicant has been asked to change the location of the garage to preserve the view from the
townhouses, so it will now be located in the southwest area of the lot as opposed to the original
location.
With respect to the standard that the proposed use be designed to be compatible to adjacent uses,
the garage is going to have different siding than the applicant had requested. The applicant will
use horizontal siding in a color that will help the building blend into its surroundings. The
structure will not be white, as originally planned, and therefore will not appear as large as it
might otherwise. There will be screening to the S-3 level to screen the adjacent property and
perimeter screening to the S-2 level to minimize neighboring views of the building.
Sheerin outlined the findings of fact for the General Standards.
Sheerin said that the proposed specific exception will not be detrimental to the public health,
safety, comfort, or general welfare because it will not alter or intensify the use of the church
property, and the design will be compatible with neighboring properties.
The proposed exception will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the
neighborhood nor will it diminish or impair property values.
There will be no changes to utilities, access roads or drainage.
There will be no changes to ingress or egress.
Sheerin said the proposed exception conforms in all other respects to applicable regulations or
standards of the zone because the south side of the property is screened by a continuous hedge
and additional screening will be required between the parking area and the north and west
property lines. The applicant will be submitting a final plan and construction drawings to the
building official as part of the building permit process.
Sheerin stated that the proposed exception will be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
Sheerin stated that for the reasons she had just outlined, she will be voting in favor of the special
exception.
Hora said that he concurs with Sheerin's findings of fact and that he too will be voting in favor
of this special exception.
Eckstein said she too favored approval of the exception. She noted that the special exception has
no impact on public safety.
Wood said he intended to support the proposed exception. He said that the changes that have
been made to the plan are excellent and will make it very compatible with the neighborhood and
will be an improvement for the property.
Wood called for a vote on the matter.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment
May 13, 2009
Page 10
A vote was taken and the special exception was approved on a vote of 4-0 (Thornton
excused).
Wood declared the motion approved and stated that any person wishing to appeal the decision to
a court of record may do so within thirty days of the decision being filed by the City Clerk's
Office.
OTHER:
Walz informed the Board that Chairperson Ned Wood would be moving to St. Louis after the
June 2009 meeting, and that the Board is in need of a replacement for him.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION:
None.
ADJOURNMENT:
Eckstein motioned to adjourn.
Hora seconded.
The motion carried 4-0 (Thornton excused), and the meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
C
~v
a
O
m
0
0
N
oC
u
c
II
a~
s
O
a
0
N
N
O
O~
O
O~
N
O
n
0
0
x x x o x
~ f E E ~
z z z z z
- E f E E E
Z Z Z Z Z
Z Z Z Z Z
N
N
F x x x x x
N
x x x x x
N d' - M N O
~ ~ ~ ~
.X O O O O O
LJJ O O O O O
~
• ~
~ ~ Q
~
H
~ W L H O C
~ o y s c
Z i = H
=
td L
~
~ ~ O b
.0 ~
m F- V W Z
~
C
~
N
~
~
N
Q ~
N
j
v
W
N
N
Q
~
=
~+'
~
~
~
Z L
~
~
~
~
~
yJ
Z
X
Q w
1
~ ~
Z
1
~
w
2b 8
IOWA CITY TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2009--5:30 P.M.
FINAL
CITY CABLE TV OFFICE, IO S. LINK ST.-TOWER PLACE PARKING FACILITY
MEMBERS PRESENT: Laura Bergus, Hans Hoerschelman, Gary Hagen, Robert Kemp,
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Bob Hardy
OTHERS PRESENT: Josh Goding, Beth Fisher, Susan Rogusky, Michael McBride
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL
None at this time.
SUMMARY OF DISCUSSION
McBride reported that the University channel taped nine graduation ceremonies and cablecast
them multiple times on the University channel as well as making them available on the Internet.
Godeing reported PATV hopes to shoot some of the Arts Fest activities. PATV will be covering
a musical event featuring local composers called the "Giant Jam Sandwich" at the Englert
Theater. Mary Swander will be featured at the Prairie Lights author talk on June 11. Rogusky
reported that Senior Center Television, with assistance for Ty Coleman, taped an
intergenerational concert at the Englert Theater that featured over 150 performers. Fisher
reported that 15 live productions are planned for the month of May by the library channel.
Among the programs are three authors discussing their work and several programs with library's
author in residence for the summer, Jack Gantos. Hardy said he has met twice with Mediacom
representatives regarding Mediacom's proposal to move the access channels to the digital basic
tier. Information on how the basic tier channel space will be used has been requested from
Mediacom. Hardy said it has been difficult to get specific responses from Mediacom to
questions raised by the City. Hardy said he will be meeting with representatives of the access
channels to further discuss the issue. Hardy said that another meeting was held with PATV to
discuss issues raised by PATV in response to the initial draft contract. PATV representatives
will be discussing the issues with their full board and then discuss the contract with the City.
Hardy said the contract will likely again have to be extended as the extension will likely expire
before the process is complete. Hardy said the Commission needs to inform the access channels
what types of programming information they want. Hardy said each access channel has their
own mission and that has determined what they have been reporting to the Commission. Hardy
said that maybe the Commission would prefer asemi-annual or an annual report. The reports do
take up staff time and the move to quarterly reports was in partial response to that. Hardy
suggested the Commissioners and access channels forward their thoughts to him on this issue
and that it be considered at the next Commission meeting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Hagen moved and Kemp seconded a motion to approve the amended Apri12009 minutes. The
motion passed unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OF COMMISSIONERS
Hoerschelman reported that he had been paying for a higher level of Internet service from Qwest
that until recently they were able to provide in Iowa City. Hoerschelman was able to get
properly upgraded and said other Qwest Internet subscribers should take measures to determine
if they were receiving the level of service for which they were paying.
SHORT PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS
None.
MEDIACOM REPORT
No representative was present.
CONSUMER ISSUES
Hardy reported all complaints that could be resolved have been. The largest number of
complaints were about the loss of the TV Guide channel.
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA REPORT
McBride reported that the University channel taped nine graduation ceremonies and cablecast
them multiple times on the University channel as well as making them available on the Internet.
The dental school ceremonies will be taped next Friday. Upgrades to equipment will be made
during the summer months. Some feature programs and PSAs will be produced during the
summer in advance of the fall semester. Less new programming will be cablecast during the
summer.
KIRKWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Kirkwood submitted a written report. Among the programs being produced are short news
features about activities at Kirkwood, "The Involvement Report", "Senior Fitness", "Garden
Connections" the annual "Jazz Master" concert series with Wycliffe Gordon, and the annual
"Fashion Show, Magical Realism".
PATV REPORT
Goding said the next PATV board meeting will be June 18. The next guidelines workshop will
be June 7 at 10 a.m. PATV hopes to shoot some of the Arts Fest activities. PATV will be
covering a musical event featuring local composers called the "Giant Jam Sandwich" at the
Englert Theater. Mary Swander will be featured at the Prairie Lights author talk on June 11.
Upcoming Live and Local productions will feature the National Association for the Mentally Ill
and Hospice of Mercy Care. PATV is working with the Neighborhood Centers to help them
produce a documentary on disproportionate minority contact in dealing with local authorities.
Assistance is also going to be provided to the Animal Center for a short documentary on their
new location and how to people can volunteer.
SENIOR CENTER REPORT
Rogusky reported that SCTV, with assistance for Ty Coleman, taped an intergenerational concert
at the Englert Theater that featured over 150 performers. SCTV will be taping the "Boomers
Bash" concert in front of the Senior Center on June 4. The 8th episode of "Friends and
Neighbors" was recently taped.
LIBRARY REPORT
Fisher reported that 15 live productions are planned for the month of May. Among the programs
are three authors discussing their work and several programs with library's author in residence
for the summer, Jack Gantos. The installation of the new equipment in meeting room A is
finished and operational.
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT REPORT
Hardy said Lowe is no longer with the school district. Hardy said he made a call to the school
district to inquire of their situation but did not receive a return call.
CITY CHANNEL REPORT
Hardy reported that a program on universal home design has been completed and is being
cablecast. The Iowa City Realtors Association and the Iowa City Housing Inspection
Department have plans to make use of the video as well. A videotour of Fire Station 2 is in the
works. Two City Council priority setting meetings were covered. A program for the Johnson
County Council of Governments on bicycle safety is planned. The Farmer's Market music
performances will begin in June and will be cablecast throughout the year. The Community
Television Service covered the 52 annual Alliance of Retarded Citizens awards banquet, a
University of Iowa Foundation's event featuring a Harley-Davidson motercycle group
fundraising event for ovarian cancer, and two Friday Night Concert Series programs. Upcoming
programs include a presentation by People for Justice in Palastine, a panel discussion sponsored
by the Chamber of Commerce discussing how to better utilize the media. The new Community
Voice mayor program interviewed a couple of junior high school students. The mayor's notable
nonprofit in May was the Women's Resource and Action Center. Several short programs for the
Women's Resource and Action Center were also shot. The Riverside Theater will be the notable
nonprofit for June. Anew program featuring biographies of local artists is in the works.
ACCESS CHANNELS AND THE DIGITAL TRANSITION
Hardy said he has met twice with Mediacom representatives. Information on how the basic tier
channel space will be used has been requested from Mediacom. Hardy said it has been difficult
to get specific responses from Mediacom to questions raised by the City. Hardy said he will be
meeting with representatives of the access channels to further discuss the issue.
PATV CONTRACT
Hardy said that another meeting was held with PATV to discuss issues raised by PATV in
response to the initial draft contract. PATV representatives will be discussing the issues with
their full board and then discuss the contract with the City. Hardy said the contract will likely
again have to be extended as the extension will likely expire before the process is complete.
TRIENNIAL REVIEW
Hardy said he has been dealing with issues that have become apparent as part of the review
process. One issue is the lack of a current letter of credit. That issue was resolved today. Hagen
asked if Hardy had everything he needed from Commissioners on the service and programming
committees. Hardy said once a draft is developed it will be forwarded to committee members for
review and comment. Hardy said a public hearing will need to be held.
ACCESS CHANNEL REPORTING
Hardy said the Commission needs to inform the access channels what types of programming
information they want. Hardy said each access channel has their own mission and that has
determined what they have been reporting to the Commission. Hardy asked if quarterly reports
are actually needed. Oral updates are provided every month and the Commission can ask for
information if something comes up. Maybe the Commission would prefer asemi-annual or an
annual report. The reports do take up staff time and the move to quarterly reports was in partial
response to that. Hagen said a record is needed of programming information, but semi-annual
would be sufficient along with the monthly oral reports. Bergus said the Commission might get
the reports that each channel provides to the body or person that oversees their operations.
Bergus said that semi-annual reporting may not be frequent enough to keep track of
programming. Bergus would be in favor of an online, standardized report of information that is
already being gathered to report to the channel's supervision person or body. A quarterly report
would be acceptable. Hardy suggested the Commissioners and access channels forward their
thoughts to him on this issue and that it be considered at the next Commission meeting.
Hoerschelman said the access channels presumably enter programming data for the TV Guide so
it appears there would be some overlap in the work flow. Hoerschelman said he is unaware of
each access channel's workflow and could not guess at how much time and energy goes into
creating quarterly reports for the Commission. Hoerschelman said there is a minimum level of
reporting that should be required but he is unsure what that should be.
ADJOURNMENT
Kemp moved and Hagen seconded a motion to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment was at 6:37 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael Brau
Cable TV Administrative Aide
TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
12 MONTH ATTENDANCE RECORD
01/01/03 to CURRENT
Meeting Kimberly Saul Meikes Brett Castillo Terry Smith Jim Pusack
Date Thrower
6/2/03 x x x x x
7/28/03 x x x x x
8/25/03 X X X X O/C
9/22/03 X X X X O/C
10/27/03 x x x x o/c
11 /24/03 x x o/c x x
12/15/03 o/c o/c x x x
1 /2/04 X O/C X X X
1 /26/04 x x x x x
2/23/04 x o/c x o/c x
3/22/04 X_ X_ X X X
4/ 26/04 X X X X O/C
5/24/04 x x O/C x x
6/28/04 X X X O/C X
7/26/04 o/c x x x x
8/26/04 did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet did not meet
9/27/04 X X X X X
10/25/04 X X
11 /04 Did not meet Did not meet Did not meet Did not Did not meet
meet
12/20/04 X X X X X
1 /24/05 X X X X X
2/28/05 X X X X
Gary Haden.
3/8/05 X_ X_ X X X
3/25/05 X O X X X
4/25/05 x o/c X X X
5/23/05 X o x vacancy X
James
Ehrmann X x Bebe
Balant x
6/27/05 X x_ X X_ X
X Michael
Chritians
7/25/05 O X X X X
9/26/05 0 X X_ 0 X
10/31 /05 X X o/c X_ X
11 /28/05 X_ X X X X
1 /23/06 o/c X X O X
2.27/06 X X X_ 0 X
3/27/06 o/c X X John
Weaterson X
X
4/24/06 X X X_ X_ X
5/22/06 0 X x/o 0 X
6/26/06 0 X Vacant 0 X
Nick Parker
7/24/06 x x x_ X
8/24/06 X_ x M. Wietin~ o/c X
9/25/06 X X x 0/c X
10/23/06 x X x o/c X
10/30/06 x x x_ vacant X
11 /27/09 X X X X
12.18/06 X X X_ X
Brett
Gordon
1 /22/07 X_ X X X X
2/26/07 X X X X X
3/26/07 Vacant x o/c x X
4/23/07 Vacant X X X X
Hoerschelm
an
521 /07 X X o/c X x
6/26/07 X X X X X
7/23/07 X X X X X
9/24/07 X X_ o/c o/c X
10/22/07 x x o/c o/c x
11 /26/07 X X X X X
12/18/07 X X o/c X X
1 /28/08 X x o/c x X
3/3/08 X X X X X
3/24/08 Bob Kemp
x x o/c X_ X
4/28/08 X X_ X X X
6/3/08 X_ X X X X
6/23/08 X X X X 0/C
7/2$/08 X X X X X
8/25/08 X_ X X o/c X
9/23/08 X X X X X
10.27/08 X X X o/c X
11 /24/08 Did not meet
12/15/08 X X X X X
1 /26/09 X X X X o/c
2/243/09 X' x o/c o/c X
Laura Ber~us
4/27/09 X X X X X
6/1/09 x_ x x vacant X
6/22/09 X X X x
(X) =Present
(O) =Absent
(O/C) = Absent/Called (Excused)