HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-03-27 Info Packet CITY COUNCIL INFORMATION PACKET
CITY OF IOWA CITY March 27, 2003
www.icgov.org
I MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
IPI City Council Meeting Schedule and Work Session Agendas
IP2 Letter from Karen Kubby (Emma Goldman Clinic) to City Manager: Property Tax
IP3 Memorandum from City Clerk: Checking Out of City Vehicles
IP4 Memorandum from City Clerk: March 11 Council Work Session
IP5 Memorandum from Colin Hennessey: New ITS Contact Information
IP6 Memorandum from Parking & Transit Director and Assistant Planning & Community
Development Director: Court Street Transportation Center
IP7 Memorandum from JCCOG Traffic Engineering Planner Pfohl to Lexington Avenue
Residents between Park Road and River Street: Lexington Avenue Traffic Barricades
IP8 Memorandum from Neighborhood Services Coordinator: Poetry in Public
IP9 Minutes: January 22 Joint Meeting of the Coralville City Council, Iowa City City
Council, Iowa City School Board, and Johnson County Board of Supervisors
IP10 Memorandum from Council Member Kanner: "Living Wage"
IPll Email from Council Member Pfab [CommonDreams.org Article]: When Democracy
Failed: The Warnings of History
IP12 Agenda: March 26 Johnson County Emergency Management Commission [Pfab]
IP13 Meeting Materials: March 27 East Central Iowa Council of Governments [Wilburn]
IP14 Letter from Rod Sullivan to Coralville City Council: Trailer Park on 5th Street
CORRESPONDENCE TO BE ACCEPTED ON APRIL 8 FORMAL AGENDA
IP15 Senator Steve Warnstadt: Service Member Support Agenda
I PRELIMINARY/DRAFT MINUTES
IP16 Economic Development Committee: February 27
IP17 Economic Development Committee: March 13
IP18 Iowa City Board of Adjustment: March 12
iP19 Iowa City Human Rights Commission: February 25
IP20 Public Art Advisory Committee: March 6
--~=~'1~_ City Council Meeting Schedule and
March 27, 2003
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c,~v oF ~OWA C,TV Work Session Agendas
www.icgov.org
I TENTATIVE FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS I
· MONDAY, APRIL 7 Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:30p Special Council Work Session
· City Conference Board
6:35p Special Council Formal Meeting
· Separate Agenda Posted
To Follow Special Council Work Session
Formal · Agenda TBD
· TUESDAY, APRIL 8 Emma J. Harva! Hall
7:00p Special Council Formal Meeting
· MONDAY, APRIL 21 Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:30p Special Council Work Session
· City Conference Board
· Remaining Agenda TBA
· TUESDAY, APRIL 22 Emma J. Harvat Hall
7:00p Special Council Formal Meeting
· WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23 Emma J. HarvatHall
4:00p Special Council Work Session
Joint Meeting: JC Board of Supervisors, lC School District,
Cities of Coralville and North Liberty
· MONDAY, MAY 5 Emma J. Ha/vat Hall
6:30p Council Work Session
· TUESDAY, MAY 6 Emma J. HarvatHall
7:00p Council Formal Meeting
Meeting dates/times/topics subject to change
FUTURE WORK SESSION ITEMS
Regulation of Downtown Dumpsters Downtown Historic Preservation
Neighborhood Housing Nuisance Ordinance Age 21 and Over Entrance to Bars
Downtown Kiosks Summer Meeting Schedule
Community Event/Aid to Agencies Funding Allocation
( EMMA GOLDMAN CLINIC FOR-
Women's Health Project (319) 337-2112
227 North Dubuque, Iowa City, Iowa 52245 FAX (319) 337-2754
Steve Atkins 7! ~
410 E. Washington St. ~/'
Iowa City, IA 52240
March 19, 2003
Dear Steve,
Please find enclosed a payment in lieu of taxes from the Emma Goldman Clinic.
Knowing that a significant percentage of the property in Iowa City is tax exempt and the
consequences to the General Fund that can come from this circumstance, we enclose a
check for $1,283.00.
This amount is the actual tax asking for our portion of the City of Iowa City's Fire and
Police Departments that would be paid if we were paying property taxes in March of this
year.
Although it is tough times for non-profits, we continue to feel it is our ethical duty to
participate in this minimal obligation for our quality city services.
In peace,
Karen Kubby
Executive Director
Cc: Andy Rocca, Fire Chief
R.J. Winkelhake, Police Chief
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
DATE: March 27, 2003
RE: Checking out of City Vehicles
On April 1, 2003, the City of Iowa City Equipment Division will go live with a new fleet
dispatch system. All City staff using motor pool cars will dispatch and return cars using
the new system.
Check out of all in town City cars will be done online. The access terminal and keys will
be located in the Public Works/Engineering division. Please plan a few extra minutes
the first time you check out a vehicle to acquaint yourself with the new procedure.
Out of town cars will be booked through the City Clerks office along with the paperwork
for out of town travel.
Thank you for your assistance as the City moves to a more efficient motor pool
management system.
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date: March 11, 2003
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
Re: Council Work Session, March 11, 2003, 5:30 PM in Emma J. Harvat Hall
Council: Champion, Kanner, Lehman, O'Donnell, Pfab (5:35), Vanderhoef, Wilburn
Staff: Atkins, Helling, Dilkes, Karr, Davidson, Nasby, Klingaman
Tapes: 03-22, Both Sides
(A complete transcription is available in the City Clerk's Office)
PLANNING & ZONING ITEMS
Asst. PCD Director Davidson presented information on the following matters:
A. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 8 ON AN ORDINANCE FOR A REZONING TO
AMEND A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT HOUSING OVERLAY (PDH-8) PLAN FOR
WINDSOR RIDGE, PART 12, LOT 255, A 7.93 ACRE DEVELOPMENT LOCATED AT
COURT STREET AND ARLINGTON DRIVE. (REZ02-00022)
B. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 8 ON AN ORDINANCE FOR A REZONING
FROM NEIGHBORHOOD CONSERVATION RESIDENTIAL (RNC-12 AND RNC-20) HIGH
DENSITY MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL (RM-44) AND MEDIUM DENSITY SINGLE-
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (RS-8) TO CONSERVATION DISTRICT OVERLAY (RNC-12/OCD,
RNC-20/OCD, RM-44/OCD AND RS-8/OCD) FOR THE DESIGNATION OF THE COLLEGE
HILL CONSERVATION DISTRICT WITHIN THE COLLEGE HILL NEIGHBORHOOD,
WHICH WILL CONSIST OF PROPERTIES ALONG THE FOLLOWING STREETS: IOWA
AVENUE, WASHINGTON STREET AND COLLEGE STREET BETVVEEN VAN BUREN
STREET AND MUSCATINE AVENUE; BURLINGTON STREET BETVVEEN SUMMIT
STREET AND MUSCATINE AVENUE; AND JOHNSON STREET, DODGE STREET,
LUCAS STREET, GOVERNOR STREET, AND SUMMIT STREET BETVVEEN IOWA
AVENUE AND BURLINGTON STREET. (REZ03-00005)
C. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 8 ON AN ORDINANCE FOR A REZONING TO
DESIGNATE THE PROPERTY AT 30 SOUTH GOVERNOR STREET AN IOWA CITY
HISTORIC LANDMARK. (REZ03-00001)
D. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 8 ON AN ORDINANCE FORA REZONING TO
DESIGNATE THE PROPERTY AT 802 WASHINGTON STREET AS AN IOWA CITY
HISTORIC LANDMARK. (REZ03-00002)
Council Work Session
March 11, 2003
Page 2
E. SETTING a PUBLIC HEARING FOR APRIL 6 ON AN ORDINANCE FOR A REZONING TO
DESIGNATE THE PROPERTY AT 726 IOWA AVENUE AS AN IOWA CITY HISTORIC
LANDMARK. (REZ03-00003)
F. PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE TITLE 14, CHAPTER 6,
ENTITLED "ZONING," ARTICLE B, ENTITLED "ZONING DEFINITIONS," AND ARTICLE M,
ENTITLED "ACCESSORY USES AND BUILDINGS," SECTION 1, ENTITLED "PERMITTED
ACCESSORY USES AND BUILDINGS."
G. REZONING 2.8 ACRES FROM FACTORY BUILT HOUSING RESIDENTIAL (RFBH) TO
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT HOUSING OVERLAY 12 (OPDH-12) AND AN OPDH PLAN
FOR SADDLEBROOK ADDITION PART 2 LOCATED ON THE EAST SIDE OF HEINZ
ROAD EAST OF PADDOCK BOULEVARD. (REZ02-00019)
In response to Vanderhoef, Davidson stated the developer could extend a street to connect with
an existing street to provide secondary access. He added that development could not extend
past the 460 units until secondary access is provided either by the developer or by the City.
H. CHANGING THE ZONING DESIGNATION FROM CB-2, CENTRAL BUSINESS SERVICE
ZONE TO CB-5, CENTRAL BUSINESS SUPPORT ZONE FOR BLOCK 67 OF THE
ORIGINAL TOWN PLAT, EXCEPTING THE 6,000 SQUARE FOOT PROPERTY AT 130
NORTH DUBUQUE STREET. (REZ03-00006)
I. PUBLIC HEARING ON AN ORDINANCE CONDITIONALLY CHANGING THE ZONING
DESIGNATION FROM CB-2, CENTRAL BUSINESS SERVICE ZONE TO CB-5, CENTRAL
BUSINESS SUPPORT ZONE, FOR A 6,000 SQUARE FOOT PROPERTY AT 130 NORTH
DUBUQUE STREET (HanicldREZ02-00021)
Davidson stated both h and I would be discussed together, noting that item h was city initiated
and item i is a private development rezoning. City Atty. Dilkes stated an objection had been filed
late that afternoon from the Wesley Foundation and First United Methodist Church and staff had
not reviewed the objection to determine whether it represented 20 percent of property owners
and thereby required an extra majority vote by Council. She recommended the public hearing
be held on both items and considerations be deferred.
J. ORDINANCE REZONING 1.6 ACRES FROM COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL (CC-2) TO
PUBLIC (P) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1828 LOWER MUSCATINE ROAD. (Kirkwood
College)(FIRST CONSIDERATION)
K. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT HOUSING OVERLAY (OPDH-
5) PLAN FOR THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD AND AMENDING THE PENINSULA
NEIGHBORHOOD CODE. (REZ02-00024) (SECOND CONSIDERATION)
L. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PRELIMINARY AND FINAL AND FINAL PLAT OF THE
REPLAT OF THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD FIRST ADDITION, IOWA CITY, IOWA.
(SUB02-00027)
Council Work Session
March 11, 2003
Page 3
M. ORDINANCE VACATING THE NORTHERNMOST 60 FEET OF THE DEAD-END ALLEY
ALONG THE WEST PROPERTY LINE OF 405 SOUTH SUMMIT STREET. (VAC00-00001'
(PASS AND ADOPT)
Davidson stated staff was recommending deferral.
N. RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PLAT OF WINDSOR RIDGE, PART 17A, IOWA CITY
IOWA. (SUB02-00028)
O. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TO INCLUDE THE UPDATED
JCCOG ARTERIAL STREET PLAN.
AGENDA ITEMS
1. (Consent Calendar #4e(2) - resolution adopting policy for recapture ... CDBG and HOME
investment Partnership ... Funds) Council Member Wilburn stated had a conflict of interest
on this item and requested it be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate
consideration. Majority agreed.
2. (Consent Calendar #-4e(5) - resolution accepting ... work ... Hickory Hill Trail Project)
Council Member Kanner requested this item be removed from the Consent Calendar for
separate consideration.
3. (Consent Calendar ff4b - Board and Commission Minutes) In response to a concern on
tardiness of minutes from Council Member Pfab, City Atty. Dilkes noted that the new
procedure called for preliminary or draft minutes to be provided in the information packet
and final on the Consent Calendar. Therefore, she noted drafts may have been received
prior to the final being approved.
4. (Consent Calendar #4e(4) - Resolution authorizing ... releaseoflien .... 1417 Pine Street)
In response to Mayor Pro tem Vanderhoef, City Mgr. Atkins and City Atty. Dilkes stated the
same requirement regarding sale to a Iow income family continues until the affordability
period or the resale period expires.
HIGH VISIBILITY PEDESTRIAN CROSSWALK PILOT PROJECT (IP1 of 3/6 Info Packet)
Asst. PCD Director Davidson present for discussion.
STAFF ACTION: Explore whether "eyeball" markings used in Salt Lake City are approved
pavement markings in the 2000 Manual. (Davidson)
NEIGHBORHOOD ART PROJECT (Agenda Item #18)
Neighborhood Coordinator Klingaman present for discussion, and presentation of video.
Majority agreed to proceed.
Council Work Session
March 11, 2003
Page 4
TIF DISTRICTS (Consent Calendar #4d(1) and #4d(2)
Economic Development Coordinator Nasby present for discussion. Council Member Kanner
requested the items be removed from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.
PEACEFUL RESOLUTION WITH IRAG
Individual Council Members expressed their views on the request for action on a pro peace/anti
war resolution with Iraq. Majority agreed not to consider a resolution but did request a
proclamation be prepared for the April 8, agenda.
COUNCIL TIME
None
Meeting adjourned 7:00 PM.
City of Iowa City
IP§
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Colin Hennessy, ITS Divisior¢~
DATE: March 26, 2003
RE: New ITS Contact Information
Friday April 4th, 2003 will be my last day with The City of Iowa City. I accepted a job
offer with Intermec Technologies Corporation in Cedar Rapids, Iowa as an Instructional
Designer/Technical Trainer. I am very thankful for all the opportunities given to me while
working with the City and I have enioyed working closely with the City Clerk's office, and
members of Council over the last 4 years. Please feel free to contact me before April 4
should you have any questions.
The ITS Division will continue to offer first contact customer service to the City Council.
Mary Suchomel will be your new contact person. Please contact Mary directly with any
computer related questions or problems. Mary can be reached at 319-356-5425 or via
e-mail mary-s uchomelC, iowa-city.orq
After hours or weekend requests should be directed to the ITS helpline at 319-356-5411
The employees of the City are remarkable people and I applaud the members of Council
for your leadership, accountability, and responsibility, which help to make the City such a
wonderful place.
Wit~Best Regards,
Information TechnolOgy Services
CC: Gary Cohn, ITS Coordinator
Mary Suchomel, Sr. Programmer/Analyst
Marian K. Karr, City Clerk
City of Iowa City
MEMORANDUM
Date: March 25, 2003
To: City Council
From: Jeff Davidson, Asst. Director, Department of Planning and Co~unity Development
Joe Fowler, Director, Department of Parking and Transit
Re: Court Street Transportation Center
This memorandum is to update you on the current status of the Court Street Transportation Center
(formerly Near Southside Transportation Center). You are likely aware that we received $6 million for our
project in the FY03 federal transportation funding bill that was approved recently in Washington. This
brings the total federal funding we have received for this project to $8.66 million. Even though the $6
million is $2 million short of the full funding we had requested, we are very pleased to receive it as we
believe it will allow us to commence construction this year.
The initial funding we received ($2.66 million) has been used for property acquisition and design of the
facility. We now own all of the property needed for the project, and have completed relocation of all of the
tenants of the Union Planters Bank building. We are currently preparing construction plans so that we can
go out to bid in late summer. The Greyhound bus station, early childhood development center (daycare
center), and covered bicycle parking elements of the project remain unchanged. We may also have one
or two small commercial spaces available for lease, depending on the final design of the bus station and
daycare spaces.
With respect to the parking levels, we had originally intended to go out to bid for a four-level facility of
approximately 400 parking spaces, with an add-alternate for a fifth parking level, which would bring the
total number of parking spaces to 522. Because of the funding shortfall, we are revising the bid package
to a base bid of a three-level parking structure, which would give us slightly less than 300 spaces. We will
then have add-alternates for a fourth level and a fifth level. We are hopeful that a pos[five bidding climate
will allow us to build the entire five-level facility at once.
There are other scenarios which could pan out regarding the funding of the fourth and fifth parking levels.
These involve the private sector or possibly the University. Worst-case scenario, we would build a three-
level facility with the ability to add two more levels later. There is also the possibility that the remaining
$2,000,000 in federal funding will be granted to us in the upcoming year's federal funding bill. We should
have a pretty good idea of this likelihood by fall.
We have decided to engage our consultant in designing the structure to accommodate an additional sixth
parking level. This would bring the total number of parking spaces to 640, or approximately the size of the
Dubuque Street Ramp. We had originally designed the facility for the existing CB-5 zoning of Block 102.
Two things have subsequently occurred: private developers have expressed interest in the half-block
directly west of our proposed facility with a density of development that would result in parking demand
beyond what we had initially anticipated. There is also a private development project across Burlington
Street north of the proposed transportation center that would have substantial parking demand. For these
reasons, we believe it is prudent to design our project for a sixth level of parking (approximately 120
spaces), even if these spaces are not constructed until later. It is our intention to add the sixth parking
level as an add alternate in the bid package which will go out late this summer.
Let us know if you have any questions.
cc: City Manager
Director of Planning & Community Development
ppdadm/mem/CSTCfunding.doc
City of ,.
March 24, 2003 ~'~1~ C~II~'"'
Lexington Avenue residents between Park Road and River Street
Re: Lexington Avenue traffic barricade
Dear Residents:
In November, City crews removed the Lexington Avenue traffic barricade along with the
associated warning signage. You will recall that the agreement between the
neighborhood and the City Council stated that the barricade would be in place for three
seasons and removed during the winter. We specifically established that the barricade
would be removed at the end of November when the City installed snowplows on City
trucks, and reinstalled in April when the snowplows were taken off.
The purpose of this letter is to inform you that City crews will reinstall the barricade and
waming signage the ~veek of April 7, unless there is a forecast that includes snow. City
crews will remove the barricade again at the end of November.
Feel free to contact me at 356-5254 if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Beth PfohI
JCCOG Traffic Engineering Planner
cc: City Council
City Manager
Police Department
Chuck Schmadeke
Rick Fosse
John Sobaski
Bud Stockman
Karin Franklin
Jeff Davidson
Marcia Klingaman
Indexbc\ltrs~l-1 BFdoc
410 EAST WASHINGTON STREET · IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240-1826 · (319) 356-5000 * FAX (319) 356-5009
City of Iowa City
IP8
MEMORANDUM
TO: Iowa City City Co~uncil
FROM: Marcia Klingama
DATE: March 27, 2003
RE: Poetry in Public
The Iowa City Public Art Advisory Committee (PAAC) has been working on a project
over the past few months that I wanted to share with you. The concept of displaying
poetry on public buses has been a program many cities have participated in for years.
New York, Washington DC, Portland, Oregon, Seattle are just some who have initiated
such programs. The PAAC felt that a similar program in Iowa City would blend nicely
into the Public Art Program by bringing in again (as did the Iowa Avenue Literary Walk)
our literary population and at very little cost.
A committee consisting of Marvin Bell, and representatives from the Iowa City Public
Library (who has orchestrated similar, shorter-term events), the Iowa City Community
School District and PAAC was formed to create the program. It was decided that the
Iowa City program would encourage participation by the abundance of professional
writers we have in our area as well as amateur writers, working with the school district to
encourage student participation as well as an open invitation to the general public. It
was also decided that the poetry would be displayed in a variety of venues; buses,
downtown kiosks, public buildings (Library, Civic Center, Recreation Centers, etc.) to
expand to other audiences; thus the name "Poetry in Public". The schedule for the
project includes extending an open call next fall, collecting poems throughout late 2003,
making selections in early 2004 and displaying posters by April, which is National Poetry
Month.
In the meantime, it was decided by the committee to "kick off" the program sooner than
next spring and extend invitations to local poets and Language Art teachers in the school
district. Marvin Bell was very helpful in pulling together a list of poets who have
expressed a lot of enthusiasm for the project. The school district teachers have solicited
dozens of students to provide poems that will be selected by the schools. We hope to
have a selection of 20-25 poems for this initial kick off. Four or five copies of each
poem will be produced and displayed in various locations. We expect to have at least
four different poems on each City bus. The poets will also be given their own copy in
appreciation.
Kay Irelan, the City's Graphic Technician, and an artist in her own right has designed an
attractive graphic that will be used in all posters and communication (see attached).
Document Services will use their high-resolution printer to produce the quality posters.
Depending upon the length of the poem, the posters will either be 11" x 28" or 11" x 32".
It is estimated that the printing of the posters will cost $1500, which will come from the
Public Art operating budget 1214.0.
We hope to see this program become an annual event. Please feel free to contact me at
356-5237 if you have questions or need additional information.
An Mm We Los~
On il; we ;,rote a li~le essa,y
~[botl~ who loved who.
Shade noyes m theg:rass, a,w~ ' '
and th(,y mt[ do,
MINUTES OF THE JOINT MEETING OF THE CORALVILLE CITY
COUNCIL, IOWA CITY CITY COUNCIL, IOWA CITY SCHOOL BOARD, AND
JOHNSON COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
JANUARY 22~ 2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Johnson County: Senior Center Funding ......................................................................................... 1
Johnson County and North Liberty: Muslim Youth Camps of America ......................................... 3
Johnson County: Joint Legislative Issues and Joint Congressional Legislative Issues ................... 6
Iowa City Community School District: Seventeen Year Olds Voting in School Board
Elections .................................................................................................................................... 7
Iowa City Community School District: Bonds ................................................................................ 8
Iowa City Community School District: Upcoming Educational Conference .................................. 9
Iowa City: Regional Fire Protection ................................................................................................ 9
Johnson County: Status of Proposed Iowa City Dog Park ............................................................ 10
Scheduling Date and Time of Next Meeting ................................................................................. 11
Chairperson Hamey called the joint meeting to order in the Johnson County
Administration Building at 4:05 p.m. Coralville City Council members present were:
Henry Herwig, Dave Jacoby, and Tom Gill. Also present: Coralville Mayor Jim Fausett.
Iowa City City Council members present were: Steven Kanner, Emie Lehman, Mike
O'Donnell, Irvin Pfab, Dee Vanderhoef, and Ross Wilburn. Iowa City School Board
members present: David Franker, Janet Leff, and Lauren Reece. Johnson County Board
of Supervisors members present were: Pat Hamey, Mike Lehman, Terrence Neuzil, Sally
Stutsman, and Carol Thompson. North Liberty City Council members present were: Ron
Bandy, Matthew Bahl, and William Dorst. Also present: North Liberty Mayor Clair
Mekota.
JOHNSON COUNTY: SENIOR CENTER FUNDING
Thompson said at the last joint meeting there was discussion for funding the Senior
Center. Since then, Johnson County has tentatively agreed to pay a participation fee for
rural residents using the Center, which amounts to about 11% of the Senior Center budget
or $70,000 for FY 2004. She said they will write a 28E Agreement to arrange this in the
future. Thompson asked if any of the other entities plan to contribute. Iowa City City
Council Member Mike O'Donnell asked what period of time the 28E Agreement is for.
Thompson said that usually they nm from year to year. Neuzil said it is still open for
discussion, too. He said the Board has not decided whether to draw it from the Rural
Fund or whether it is going to be back to a Block Grant pulled from the General Fund.
He said the idea originally was to pull it out of the Rural Fund so that it would be fair to
have other communities make a contribution. He said he read in the paper that Coralville
is not able to make a contribution at this point and North Liberty has not made a
commitment yet either. He asked if it is still going to be a function funded primarily by
Iowa City, the County and participation fees. O'Donnell said it is difficult to plan a
budget on a yearly basis. He asked for a longer term on the 28E Agreement. Stutsman
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 2
asked when Iowa City needs information for their budget. O'Donnell said they approve
their budget on March 15, but they begin going through the budgets in December and
January. Thompson said that the current 28E Agreement is terminating on June 30th, so
they need to write a new one. Thompson said a proposed draft 28E states that by
November the Senior Center will tell the Board the number of registered participants and
the number from the rural area, and then by January 15th they would tell the County the
amount of the budget.
Neuzil said that if the other communities aren't going to step up for whatever reason,
then maybe Johnson County should reevaluate whether it should be pulled back out into
the General Fund. Iowa City City Council Member Dee Vanderhoef asked if it is
possible for the Board to split a certain amount from the Rural Fund and a certain amount
from the General Fund. Neuzil said he thinks that there is a potential for that because part
of it could be in Block Grant form. He said it gets particular when it comes to pulling
money out of the Rural Fund. He said Code requires it to he specific on how to draw
from the Rural Fund. Thompson said that the old arrangement where it was a partnership
and the County provided that service was fine to come from the General Fund. She said
that the Accreditation Committee wanted it to be a participation fee and it didn't seem
fair for the County to tax for a participation fee for people who weren't going to be able
to use it. She further explained that the General Fund taxes everyone in the County, so if
they tax in the General Fund to pay for rural residents to participate, it means that
everyone is being taxed and only the rural residents receive the benefit. Neuzil asked if at
this point for FY 04 that North Liberty and Coralville are not going to participate in this.
Coralville Mayor Jim Fausett said they have had comments to continue with the programs
they already have rather than taking money from them for the Iowa City/Johnson County
Senior Center. Fausett said Coralville also doesn't have the funds in the budget to
contribute at this point. North Liberty Mayor Claire Mekota said that North Liberty has
their own center to pay for.
Iowa City Mayor Ernie Lehman said that it is important for everyone to understand
that there is a shortfall in the Senior Center budget. He said there are people working
very hard to try to see how those funds could be made up. He said that everyone should
be aware of and expecting that there will be user fees for folks living outside of Iowa
City. He said nobody really knows the details of how it is going to end up though.
Mekota said that they have talked about North Liberty residents bringing back user fee
receipts to be reimbursed. He said they haven't decided on that yet, but have discussed
that idea. Hamey asked E. Lehman if the user fee would be for things other than Senior
Dining. E. Lehman said he doesn't know and that the Commission would have to work
that out. He said they have discussed a number of ideas, but it seems like there would be
some sort of user fee. Vanderhoef said the Commission has brought ideas for
informational purposes that they are looking at possibly 2 tiers, where a certain amount of
the activities would be part of what is paid for by the City and the County currently. She
said then there would be additional things that they would have to have a membership to
participate in. She said that they still need assistance from the County for basic operation
of the Senior Center and some of the standard programs.
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 3
Coralville City Council Member Dave Jacoby asked the Board how they arrived at
$70,000, since they don't yet know what funds they are using. Thompson said there are
approximately 3,500 registered members of the Center, of which 11% are rural residents.
She said that $70,000 is about 11% of the budget.
JOHNSON COUNTY AND NORTH LIBERTY: MUSLIM YOUTH CAMPS OF
AMERICA
Harney said Johnson County has forwarded their assessment of the proposed Muslim
Youth Camp to the Corps of Engineers, outlying their concerns. Mekota said they have
also submitted their objections and concems. Mekota said they had a joint meeting with
some of the County Supervisors and determined that they should get on track to make
sure that this project is not done at all because of the amotmt of money it is going to cost
the County and other entities. Neuzil said this is a good example of a situation that
brought 2 entities together. He said it has worked well to have Johnson County and
North Liberty sit together and talk about this concern. He said that Johnson County
identified Land Use compatibility, infrastructure roads and environmental concerns. He
said they learned from North Liberty that there isn't enough water in the area to put out a
tim. Mekota said they want to remove 300-400 trees just to build the camp structure. He
said this building would be right by the Reservoir, where the boaters could see it and it
would be about 3 stories tall with a 36-foot bird tower. Mekota said his concern is that
everyone should be treated the same. He said a building like this shouldn't be built in this
remote area. He said it doesn't matter whether its Muslims or who it is, it is too much for
that area. Lehman said they had the same concerns. He said if a developer came to
Board and wanted to build houses out there one question would be whether that developer
is going to contribute towards the roads in the area. Iowa City City Council Member
Steven Kanner asked if anyone has approached the organization to talk to them about
some of these issues. Lehman said no, that it isn't that far along. He said they hope to
hear back from the DNR after they view the assessment.
Neuzil said he thinks the message needs to be sent particularly to the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers that the County is going to need some help with infrastructure if they
are going to put in a facility that has thousands of people each year participating in it. He
said North Liberty doesn't have the fire truck to handle the facility and the County
doesn't have the roads to handle it. North Liberty City Council Member Matthew Bahl
said another issue is that the Fire Chief spoke about the lack of water to put out a
particularly large fire there. He said they would be running tanker trucks down a narrow
lane, which means they would run into a situation where people would be trapped at the
ftre sight. He said the County road is also on a blind comer. Bahl said he doesn't think
the actual piece of property itself is suitable to build a road big enough to allow 2-way
traffic in an emergency situation. Mekota said that the property is an illusion because
they talk about it being 110 acres and only about 15-20 is actually buildable, which is
where the Girl Scouts were before. He said that this building could go up and only
accommodate about 40-60 parking spots for the staff. He said that everyone else would
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 4
have to be bussed in and out because there isn't any room to park. He said the
topography of the ground is ravines straight up and down. Kanner asked if they are going
to use busses instead of individual cars. Mekota said there is talk about parking the cars
in North Liberty and then bussing the people out to the campsite. He said there is also the
issue of where to park 2,000 cars to get the people out there. He said it isn't a thought out
plan and it has too many loopholes.
Neuzil said it is also in an area where the County has said they do not have the
infrastructure to grow. Mekota said the Comprehensive Plan for this area doesn't allow
for anything like this to be built. He said it has to be amended. Stutsman said the same
goes for the County's Land Use Plan. She said a plan like this would never be approved
if it came before the Board of Supervisors. Mekota said the other issue is that they aren't
going to be paying any tax on it and they would only be leasing it for $1.00.
Iowa City City Council Member Irvin Pfab asked if there has been any thought about
security, and whose responsibility that would be. Mekota said some would be federal, but
the County and North Liberty would respond because they are closest. Lehman said the
County now contracts somewhat with patrol up there for the Corps of Engineers. He said
that he expects the duties would be expanded.
Kanner said it sounds like there are some valid points that hopefully they are able to
work out with the Muslim Camp. He said that a concern of his is a few anti-Muslim
statements that he read in the paper. He asked if the County or North Liberty has tried to
find any systemic way to work out some of those statements, which he felt were not
warranted. North Liberty City Council Member William Dorst said it is just a shame that
the word Muslim had to be brought in. He said that regardless of who proposes what is
going on out there, it still wouldn't be proper. Kanner said he knows that isn't the point,
but there were some anti-Muslim statements that he read about in the paper. He said
there needs to be a response saying they aren't going to accept that attitude in this area.
Dorst said he thinks it is unfortunate that there is talk and possible racial slur like this. He
said it is terrible rhetoric. He said he wishes the term Muslim wasn't involved in this and
they could say Youth Camp and not offend anyone. He said nobody needs to play the
race card in this issue. Kanner it is out there and there is a Human Rights Commission
and he suggested having some programs set up or some ways to formally address the
issues being brought up. He said that there is a lot of tension in this, and there are also
valid concerns about why this should or shouldn't be built. Kanner said the Human
Rights Commission is pretty sharp and he thinks they would be willing to work with the
County or North Liberty in formulating a program to talk about these issues. O'Donnell
said he thinks such negative statements have been few and far between. He said the
concern is more about the roads, vehicles and fire and police protection. Stutsman said
Kanner has a point. She said that anytime they have received comments it has been
related to the race issue. She said that none of these remarks have come from the Board
of Supervisors. She said that she refers to it as the Youth Camp and she doesn't care who
is building out there because it is the size of the project that she has concerns with.
Stutsman said the issue has been brought up and they probably do have a responsibility to
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 5
address it in some way. She said that if there are resources through the Human Rights
Commission then she would be open to ideas or programs. She said even though it isn't
the issue, it keeps coming up and she thinks that people want to make it the issue.
Hamey said that at this point what has happened is that the Board of Supervisors and
North Liberty have made their point. He said they have brought forward the legitimate
issues that need to be addressed. He said that when the Corps of Engineers makes their
decision, whatever way they decide, then such issues can be addressed. He said there are
going to be remarks made no matter what the group or ethnicity may be, but he thinks
they should go forward and see what the Corps of Engineers do and address it thereafter.
Bahl said he thinks that from their standpoint they would welcome any proponent of the
Camp to come to North Liberty and explain what they want to do and how they would be
willing to address these issues. Thompson said they were very willing to do that. She
said they came to the Board and were open about sharing their plans. She said the issue
right now is the Corps of Engineers and the environmental assessment. She said they
asked for public comment and the Board responded to them. She said the Camp people
aren't part of this conversation because it is between the public and the Corps of
Engineers. Iowa City City Council Member Ross Wilbum said that at the point where it
is resolved with the Corps, if it is going to end up that the Camp would be in place, it
would be a good opportunity to invite the Camp members. He said that if there is also
going to be a demand for services in North Liberty then a contract with them for services
at the Recreation Center might be available. He said that in Iowa City they have an
arrangement with the schools for some joint use of rec. facility. He said it might be an
opportunity to at least have some income to defray costs. Wilbum said there are going to
be comments made, though, unfortunately. He said at that point maybe there could be
some positive experience with the Youth Camp folks to let them know that they are
welcome in the community and that the negative attitudes are few and far between. E.
Lehman said the ball is basically out of Johnson County's court now. Hamey said the
deadline for comments has passed.
Neuzil said if the Corps of Engineers says there are too many concerns and the
infrastructure is not there, then there is the question of what could be done with that land.
He asked what North Liberty has in mind as a potential and is the County involved in
that. Mekota said they have discussed this for quite awhile because they wanted to
protect the County and North Liberty as far as expenditures. He said that in the past,
North Liberty has leased some ground from the Corps for a park. He said they would like
to submit a lease of their own with the County and have a park out there. He said they
pursued this, but their application was turned away. He said now they are taking the wait
and see attitude and possibly might consider submitting an application to do so later.
Neuzil asked if this is something that needs to be thought about before the Corps makes
their decision. North Liberty City Manager Brian James said the only idea addressed
before the Council was the fact that maybe the County and the City should get together
and look at a joint program including a park with some sort of low-intensity type use that
the current infrastructure would support. He said they then noticed 2 days later in the
paper that the Crops and the public had come out saying they wouldn't be reviewing any
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 6
more applications until the issue with this group had been settled. Neuzil said he thinks it
is going to be difficult for the County to be supportive of anything that will put more
traffic on the road.
Bahl asked if there is any other site within the County that might be suitable for a
camp of this size and nature. Thompson said the County doesn't have very many places
where there is water and sewer. She said it almost requires that it be in a city. Mekota
said that in the rural area along the Reservoir, some of the ground that was divided up for
houses had 7 acres per house because of the perk test on the ground for the sewer. He
said the farther away from the Reservoir it went the less acres there were per house. He
said suddenly those things seem to not pertain anymore, because now they want to put
3,000 people there and they would bring in a sewer system from the south that is
supposed to be able to handle this. Mekota said he has such a problem with this because
he has lived under these regulations for years with just rented farmland. North Liberty
City Council Member Ron Bandy said he has been told that this is a one of a kind project
nationally. He asked if it would be reasonable to take on a joint venture in order to have
it, even if the Corps says it wouldn't work. Hamey said he thinks there is always that
possibility if the County and the Youth Camp group and whomever else saw a spot that
would be feasible where they could do something like this. He said he doesn't really
know where that would be. Bandy said that if this could be remedied with joint effort it
would be worth looking at. Hamey said the County and North Liberty have said that this
particular location isn't good. He said the County doesn't have the fimds to go buy
property or to try to put infrastructure in for a facility of this magnitude or for any other
group that might want to do that at this point. Lehman said that even if the County could
identify a location, the infrastructure would probably have to be paid for by the user.
Kanner said this is an economic development issue and they should be speaking with the
Visitors and Convention Bureau. He said that this is going to be bringing in a lot of
people that are probably going to be spending money in the area. Bandy said he does
have thoughts along those lines but he didn't know how much they wanted to prioritize
this with so many other issues on the table to address. He said that he didn't know
whether it would be worthwhile to invest in a joint effort or just let it take its course to
see if it is feasible. He said they could look at it as having a lot of opportunity. Harney
said they are going to let the Corps go fi.om here and further discussions would come later
depending on what materializes.
JOHNSON COUNTY: JOINT LEGISLATIVE ISSUES AND JOINT
CONGRESSIONAL LEGISLATIVE ISSUES
Neuzil said the Iowa Legislature is in session. He said that some of the Board of
Supervisors, along with the City Councils and East Central Iowa Council of Governments
got together to discuss some of the issues that they are going to be working on. He said
that there are going to be many opportunities to meet with the local legislators. He said
that the Johnson County Board of Supervisors is going to have a County legislative day
where they meet with the legislators in Des Moines. He said that if there are ways in
which to work jointly on certain legislative issues then they need to be communicating
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 7
this. He said the same goes for congressional issues. Neuzil said that there are a lot of
federal issues and a lot of grant money out there. He said they are in a very good position
in the State of Iowa with Senator Grassley as the Chief of the Finance Committee.
Stutsman said that open dumping was an issue brought up at ISAC. She asked if there are
any problems with that in the cities. Mekota said they have a lot of problems with it.
Stutsman said there might be legislation coming up that would empower counties and
cities to have more authority to deal with this.
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCItOOL DISTRICT: SEVENTEEN YEAR OLDS
VOTING IN SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS
Iowa City Community School District Board of Directors Member Lauren Reece said
Jeanine Redlinger, who is a teacher at City High, along with some students are here to
make a brief presentation. Jeanine Redlinger thanked everyone for the opportunity to
speak about this. She said Caroline Mench, a Junior at City High, and another student
who is a Senior from City High are here and have researched this issue, taking action to
get support for it. Redlinger said this began a year ago when she was approached by a
student who said they would like to do something that would make a difference for
people their age to give them a voice in what is going on. Redlinger said she heard that
Cambridge, MA, had a similar bill brought up by students and it was actually passed by
their City government and their School Board to allow 17 year olds to vote in all local
elections. She said it currently is in legislation in the State and has to be approved by
them before it can take place in Cambridge. Redlinger said she discussed with her
students and suggested beginning with the School Board. Redlinger said that
democratically the country is in turmoil; less than half of eligible voters do so and youths
are much worse at voting than the elderly. Redlinger said that if they could get the youths
excited about voting when they are young enough that they are in school learning about
government and when they can make it a habit then there might be some improvement to
the democracy. Redlinger said campaigns are not directed towards youths or even
towards middle-aged persons. She said campaigns are directed towards senior citizens
because they are the ones who vote. She said that school boards go a long way to show
other politicians that youths do matter and need addressing. Redlinger said she tries to
teach her students that it is important to have a voice and to speak out. She said the
students say that they aren't able to do anything serious until they are 18 and by then they
are gone in another community. She said that if the youths vote, then their parents would
vote, too, and there would be an improvement overall. She said she is going to let the
students address why they should be able to vote at 17.
One student said that 17 is a very good age because you are still in high school and
still able to make a decision on choices that readily affect a 17 year olds' every day life.
She said that by 17 many have seen a lot and are able to make a valid decision. Another
student said that 17 year olds are also the ones who are in the government classes and are
involved in things like civic projects and are the ones that are more informed. She said
that a lot of senior citizens do not take the time to do research. She said that because the
students are involved in these government classes they are informed and are able to make
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 8
competent decisions. Redlinger asked her students why they should be more empowered
than they already are. A student said that a lot of youths don't vote because they feel that
it won't affect them, especially when it comes to larger elections. She said that if they
could give them power to start voting on smaller local issues, then they would see that it
would make a difference. Redlinger asked why students support this. A student said that
they feel the adults that do get to vote do not listen to what they have to say, so they feel
that they should be able to say more than just coming to meetings or talking to their
parents. She said they would like to be heard.
Redlinger said they were originally told that this could be done with legislation. She
said the Secretary of State's Office changed their mind somewhere during this last year
and they are now being told that it has to be an amendment to the State Constitution. She
said that this doesn't mean it can't be done, but that it has to be passed 2 years in a row.
She said this makes it another civics project for her students next year. She said they are
at the beginning and are starting to reach out to schools beyond their own. A student
asked the group to at least consider this and if there are questions they would be happy to
answer them. Lehman said it takes a certain percentage to pass. E. Lehman asked at
what age a person could be a School Board Member. Redlinger said 18. Karmer asked
how many 17 and 18 year olds there are at City High. A student answered arotmd 400.
Kanner said he doesn't know what the Iowa City City Council would do, but asked if they
could give them a formal resolution to consider. Redlinger said the students would put
something together.
Stutsman asked if changing the Constitution would just be for school elections. A
student said school elections is what they are aiming for presently. Redlinger said they
really think that educationally it is appropriate because this is where they are and they
probably know a lot more about what is going on in the schools than most of the people
in this room do, yet they don't have a formal say. She said the School Board is excellent
about listening to them. A student added that the members of the School Board are
excited about this and are helping them out a lot. Stutsman asked how many states have
17-year olds voting. A student answered that Iowa could be the first. Redlinger said that
in Massachusetts it is being considered. She added that Bolkcom agreed to sponsor this
and the bill was being written up in Des Moines when they found out it needs to be done
differently. E. Lehman asked if what is being considered in Massachusetts is for all
voting. He said he would think that the voting would be for all elections or none.
Redlinger said this was only for Cambridge, not for the entire State. Coralville City
Council Member Dave Jacoby said he thinks this is a great project.
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT: BONDS
Reece said they are in the home stretch of their bond campaign. She thanked the
group on behalf of the School Board to use their Councils to support the bond and vote in
favor of it. She said that it is really a great boost in the arm to the campaign. She
informed everyone that they are all welcome to vote early at the Auditor's Office and
mentioned other satellite locations.
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 9
IOWA CITY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT: UPCOMING
EDUCATIONAL CONFERENCE
Iowa City Community School District Board Member David Franker said the Iowa
City Community School District is hosting a conference on Saturday, March 8th, at City
High from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. He said they have invited all public education school districts
that lie within Johnson County to attend, as well as Grant Wood AEA representatives,
Kirkwood Community College people, University of Iowa folks, State and local federal
legislators, the Governor, and all 50 licensed preschool providers in Johnson County to
attend the conference. He said the purpose is to get acquainted with education neighbors
and to build some networks and trust. He said this way, when changes come, they would
be in better shape to work together in structural and financial efficiencies in Johnson
County. He said the purpose is not to discuss consolidation, but to discuss
communication and avenues for cooperation. Rcecc added that one of the topics is going
to be the 17-year old voting issue. Franker said that anyone is welcome to attend and
there is no cost.
IOWA CITY: REGIONAL FIRE PROTECTION
Kanner said he put this on the agenda and is passing out a memo fi.om their Fire Chief
Andy Rocca regarding this issue. He said that in Iowa City they are talking about ways to
save money and deliver services such as fire protection in a more efficient manner. He
said the City Council will be having a work session in the near future about the possibility
of regionalizing more of their fire protection services for the citizens. He said the City
Council has not reached any conclusions yet. Kanner said he wanted to mention this so
that the fellow area City Councils would put it on their agendas for discussion, so that this
could be moved forward a bit to see if there is any interest on the part of at least 2 or more
of the cities and the County to work together in a more efficient fashion.
Kanner highlighted a couple of points in the memo. He said that in May 2000, one of
the goals of their City Council was to direct the Fire Department to consider a regional
fire protection system. He said in July 2002, it was addressed by the Iowa City Fire
Department in the 10-year strategic plan. He said that Rocca notes what a regional
approach the fire protection could provide in terms of advantages. He said it could
include centralized fire and EMS management, as well as reduced administrative costs, a
centralized dispatching and communication network, improved fire and emergency
medical capabilities, increased resources and special equipment, unified fire prevention
activities and a coordinated approach to training personnel. Kanner suggested they
discuss this at their next joint meeting to see if they would like to move forward.
Stutsman asked if he is referring to fire protection only or is he talking about an
emergency ambulance service, too. Kanner said they are putting it all on the table. He
said they haven't had their work session yet, but they are going to talk about exactly
where they are at and are just putting it into a larger sense to see if this is a good idea. He
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 10
said it is something that has been talked about among the Council for awhile. Bandy said
he thinks a lot of this is already going on. Jacoby agreed. He said that before moving on,
a matrix would have to be developed of what is already taking place. He said there are
already agreements in place and departments that work very well together and help one
another out when needed. He said that they are working on a 28E Agreement with the
County in terms of shared space for emergency medical services for quicker response
times and training. He said he thinks a lot of what is being proposed or being addressed
is already happening. Kanner said he thinks there is talk of going even further to see if
them are further benefits. He said this is something that might not happen for years down
the road but it would behoove them to see if they could save more money and be more
efficient in how they spend their money to protect people in emergencies. Dorst said it is
going to be pretty tough to save a lot of money when most of the groups in the county use
volunteers. Kanner said he spoke with Rocca and there are places around the country that
mix volunteer and professional. He said this is the reason they might want to consider it
to see if it is a possibility to mix that. He said he thinks it is possible to consolidate and
see if it would work. Stutsman said there are a lot of issues to think through.
Stutsman asked if North Liberty still has a volunteer Fire Department. North Liberty
representatives said yes. Stutsman said her only concern with the volunteer fire
departments is that as people get busier, who would be there to fight a fire. Stutsman
asked if Coralville has problems with this. Jacoby said that they have enough people.
Jacoby said he doesn't think the number of stations would ever be reduced if them would
be a joint effort.
Stutsman asked if there is interest to have this on the agenda for next time. Jacoby
said he thinks there is interest, but there might have to be more specifics or a proposal of
exactly what they are looking at. E. Lehman said one of the things they have all heard a
number of times is duplication of services between cities, counties and school districts.
He said people say if there was just one provider of a service that perhaps the service
would be better and them would be savings. He said he thinks that there is a tremendous
amount of support from the public that joint efforts could be more effective than
individual efforts. He said he would personally like to see the various entities speak with
their volunteers about this. He said that these people might have some pretty good ideas
because nobody knows the fire department like those involved in it. Iowa City City
Council Member Irvin Pfab suggested the group consider this in a motion that they are
interested in this. E. Lehman said it is going to take the individual cities talking to their
fire departments. He said that no motion here is going to change anything. Harney added
that the rural fire departments fall under the Trustees and it gets more complicated than
just a group of people sitting down. He said that there needs to be an agreement where
they are going to sit down and discuss it and work through it to a certain goal. Pfab
followed up E. Lehman's comment that he means they would all be interested in looking
at what these places have to say.
JOHNSON COUNTY: STATUS OF PROPOSED IOWA CITY DOG PARK
Informal Minutes: January 22, 2003/page 11
Lehman said this is in regards to the 40 acre dog park that the Iowa City Council is
proposing to have just west of the Iowa City Landfill. He said that the other communities
of North Liberty and Coralville might have a request like this as they continue to grow.
He said it came to the County's attention by some concerned cow/calf owners. He said
their concerns were what sort of fences would be put up and how their livestock might be
bothered by dogs running, barking, or even nmning along a fence and how the adjoining
land owners would be able to conduct their operations. He said he just wanted this
awareness to be known. He said he knows the City owns the property and he doesn't
know what the exact use of it is right now. He said the landowners have very grave
concerns on the impact of their farm operations. E. Lehman said the City hasn't done
anything yet. Kanner said it isn't on their Parks and Recreation priority list, nor is it in
their Capital Projects. He said they are willing to listen. He said they are thinking that if
there is private funding, it is something that they might consider. E. Lehman said this has
only come to their City Council a couple of times in the amount of time that he has been
on the Council. A woman said that her residence would be the closest one to that site.
She said it is a sharp hill and the land is landlocked. She added that her husband works
nights, sleeps days and they don't have air conditioning. She said that they are close
enough that they would he able to hear dogs barking. E. Lehman said that if they
consider a dog park, and it is a huge if, that would certainly be one of their considerations.
Vanderhoef said that this is another one of those projects where if they build it they will
come. Mekota said that dogs are able to run free on the DNR ground, which is evewthing
west of 965 to Amana.
SCHEDULING DATE AND TIME OF NEXT MEETING
The group scheduled their next meeting for Wednesday April 23, 2003 with the
location to be determined at a later date.
Adjourned at 5:12 p.m.
Attest: Tom Slockett, Auditor
By:
On the day of _, 2003
By Casie Parkins, Recording Secretary
Sent to the Board of Supervisors on March 25, 2003 at 4:00 p.m.
IPIO
From: Steven Kanner ~/~
To: City Council
Date: 3/25/03
Re: "Living Wage"
I thought you might find the following Gazette article
on a "Living Wage" law passed in New Mexico of interest.
The Santa Fe law is somewhat unique because it sets a
minimu~ wage for all businesses in the city that employ
more then 25 people. This is in contrast to most of the
other minimum wage laws that effect only goverr~ment
employees or businesses that contract with the government
entity.
There is a group in town that recently advocated for a
"Living Wage" ordinance for Johnson County employees and
contractors. I'd recommend that we work with them in
exploring the Santa Fe law and how it might benefit the
City of Iowa City.
Most studies indicate that increasing minimu~ wages
does not have a negative impact on the nun%her of businesses
that close. With Iowa City having many jobs paying wages
at $7-8/hour, many area employees are currently working for
less then a livable wage.
Now would be a good time to study the ~Living Wage"
issue. Please let me know what you think of the idea.
Call me at 338-8865 with your thoughts and comments.
'L,v, ng-wage' law causes an uproar ,n anta re
SANTA rE, N.M. (AP) -- For municipal workers or employees at
more than two decades, artist 0]]the Net ~.~s that contract with a city
Lynda Feman has watched locals
struggle to make ends meet while · Santa Fe Living Wage Network: or county.
www. santafellvlngwage.org This high-desert town sits at the
money rolled into this picturesque · Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce: foot of the Sangre de Cristo Moun-
resort that caters to the champagne www. santafechamber, com talus. Its twisting, narrow streets,
tastes of tourists
dotted with pinch trees, are lined
"Santa Fe is impossible," said January, more than $3 above the with quaint adobe homes and
Feman, peddling her ceramic federal minimum of $5.1§. The .sh. ops. At the heart of town is the
artwork on Santa Fe Plaza. "I've minimum is supposed to rise even bustling plaza, where Indians and
lived here for 25 years, and I'm more, to $10.50, by 20(B. · others sell turquoise jewelry and
maxed out. It needs to change." The council's action m~es Santa pottery. Nearby are several old
The frustration has led to a fight Fe the orfly municipality in the churches, galleries and museums.
pitting some of Santa Fe's biggest country extending a mandatory It is also New Mexico's capital
employers against its poorest resi- minimum wage to all businesses and home to the Palace of the Go~,-
dents over the nation's most sweep- with at least 25 employees. Tourist ernors, once the seat of the
lng "Uv~ng wage" ordinance, hotels, trendy shops and high-end Mexican territorial government
AP Approved last month durh~g a restaurants wi]l be affected, as will and now a history museum.
Kyle Johnstone, 8, of Santa Fe, N.M., wears a sticker on his heated meeting of the City Council, fast-food joints and discount stores.
head to show his support for a living wage ordinance at a the law raises hourly pay for thou- Many U.S. cities have living-
Santa Fe City Council meeting last month, sands of workers to at least $8.50 in wage laws, but they apply onl~y to · Turn, to ~D: Uvlng wage
$11.50~ - Ci~ employees
Lo~a~ wa~ or workers for city service
contractors in Santa C~uz,
laws
Living wage October 2000
carnpaig~s seek to $8~0 - Workers for
raise minimum busioesses with 25 or mom
wages by passing employees in Santa Fa,
local laws. N.M.
Baltimore was the February 2003
first to adopt such
a law in 1994, and $6.25- Janitorial, s~cudty
since then about and parking lot attendant
1 O0 othem have workers in Milwauk~
been appmved County, Wis.
nationwide. Here's May 1997 (Later amended
a comparison of to $7.06)
hourly wages and ~.15 - Federal minimum
when they were wage
adopted. S~r 1997 :
$4.2~ - New Mexico's
SOURCES: minimum wage
Assodatkm of
Commun~ Juiy 1993
Associated Press
otherwise $12.55 per hour
Living wage: Merchants file suit
· From page 1D
Nearly a quarter of the city's to tell him how much to pay his AP
26,000 non-government workers workers. Lynda Feman paints a cake stand at her pottery studio in Glorieta,
make less than $10.50 an hour, Other business leaders pre- N.M., earlier this month. Feman is in favor of a higher minimum
and supporters of the ordinance dict job losses, and some s~ wage. for those working in Santa Fa, N.M. For more than two
insist a higher minimum is companies raiding or movi~,~ decades, Feman has watched locals struggle to make ends meet
desperately needed to help a elsewhere, especially in an ~' while money roiled intO this pictures~que resort that caters to the
work force trapped in iow-pay- ready tight tourist economy, champagne tastes of tourists.
ing hospitality industry jobs. "We're going to have to con-
"People who live in Santa Fe
these days work two or three sider all the possibilities to
maintain a competitive advan-
jobs to make ends meet," said ta~e," said Jim Weyhrauch,
Frank Mantano, a former city chief executive of Nambe Mills,
councilman who has been push- which sells handmade metal
ing for the wage increase, bowls and candleholders.
Santa Fe business owners,
however, have filed a lawsuit Last year, New Orleans and
claiming the living-wage ordi- Santa Manica, Calif., enacted
nanee violates state law and the living-wage laws nearly identi~
cai to Santa Fe's, but both were
city code.
Joe Hoback, owner of the overturned -- by the state Su-
Pink Adobe restaurant, predict- preme Court in Louisiana a~.d
ed higher prices and cutbacks by a narrow margin of voters m
in employee perks. Santa Monica.
"I'm going to have to spread In Santa Fe, "the fact that it
the pain around," he said. "The passed reinforces this continued
majority of my staff is very movement to raise wages when
much against this because they Congress does nothing," said
want to have a choice on how Jen Kern of the Association of
they are going to receive their Community Organizations for
compensation." Reform Now, which has promot-
Michael Chaplin, owner of a ed many living-wage cam-
construction business, argued paigns, starting with the first
that city leaders have no right one, in Baltimore, in 1994.
Marian Karr ~
From: Irvin Pfab [iplab@avalon.net]
Sent: Sunday, March 23, 2003 9:56 AM
To: Iowa City City Council
Subject: 31603fw..When Democracy failed: The warnings of history:Commondreams.org, by Thom
Published on Sunday, March 16, 2003 by CommonDreams. org
When Democracy Failed: The Warnings of History
by Thom Hartmann
The 70th anniversary wasn't noticed in the United States, and was barely reported in the
corporate media. But the Germans remembered well that fateful day seventy years ago -
February 27, 1933. They commemorated the anniversary by joining in demonstrations for
peace that mobilized citizens all across the world.
It started when the government, in the midst of a worldwide economic crisis, received reports
of an imminent terrorist attack. A foreign ideologue had launched feeble attacks on a few
famous buildings, but the media largely ignored his relatively small efforts. The intelligence
services knew, however, that the odds were he would eventually succeed. (Historians are still
arguing whether or not rogue elements in the intelligence service helped the terrorist; the most
recent research implies they did not.)
But the warnings of investigators were ignored at the highest levels, in part because the
government was distracted; the man who claimed to be the nation's leader had not been elected
by a majority vote and the majority of citizens claimed he had no right to the powers he
coveted. He was a simpleton, some said, a cartoon character of a man who saw things in black-
and-white terms and didn't have the intellect to understand the subtleties of running a nation in
a complex and internationalist world. His coarse use of language - reflecting his political roots
in a southermnost state - and his simplistic and often-inflammatory nationalistic rhetoric
offended the aristocrats, foreign leaders, and the well-educated elite in the government and
media. And, as a young man, he'd joined a secret society with an occult-sounding name and
bizarre initiation rituals that involved skulls and human bones.
Nonetheless, he knew the terrorist was going to strike (although he didn't know where or
when), and he had already considered his response. When an aide brought him word that the
nation's most prestigious building was ablaze, he verified it was the terrorist who had struck
and then rushed to the scene and called a press conference.
"You are now witnessing the beginning of a great epoch in history," he proclaimed, standing in
front of the burned-out building, surrounded by national media. "This fire," he said, his voice
trembling with emotion, "is the beginning." He used the occasion - "a sign from God," he
called it - to declare an all-out war on terrorism and its ideological sponsors, a people, he said,
who traced their origins to the Middle East and found motivation for their evil deeds in their
religion.
Two weeks later, the first detention center for terrorists was built in Oranianberg to hold the
first suspected allies of the infamous terrorist. In a national outburst of patriotism, the leader's
flag was everywhere, even printed large in newspapers suitable for window display.
Within four weeks of the terrorist attack, the nation's now-popular leader had pushed through
legislation - in the name of combating terrorism and fighting the philosophy he said spawned it
3/24/03
Page 2 of 5
- that suspended constitutional guarantees of free speech, privacy, and habeas corpus. Police
could now intercept mail and wiretap phones; suspected terrorists could be imprisoned without
specific charges and without access to their lawyers; police could sneak into people's homes
without warrants if the cases involved terrorism.
To get his patriotic "Decree on the Protection of People and State" passed over the objections
of concerned legislators and civil libertarians, he agreed to put a 4-year sunset provision on it:
if the national emergency provoked by the terrorist attack was over by then, the freedoms and
rights would be returned to the people, and the police agencies would be re-restrained.
Legislators would later say they hadn't had time to read the bill before voting on it.
Immediately after passage of the anti-terrorism act, his federal police agencies stepped up their
program of arresting suspicious persons and holding them without access to lawyers or courts.
In the first year only a few hundred were interred, and those who objected were largely ignored
by the mainstream press, which was afraid to offend and thus lose access to a leader with such
high popularity ratings. Citizens who protested the leader in public - and there were many -
quickly found themselves confronting the newly empowered police's batons, gas, and jail cells,
or fenced off in protest zones safely out of earshot of the leader's public speeches. (In the
meantime, he was taking almost daily lessons in public speaking, learning to control his
tonality, gestures, and facial expressions. He became a very competent orator.)
Within the first months after that terrorist attack, at the suggestion ora political advisor, he
brought a formerly obscure word into common usage. He wanted to stir a "racial pride" among
his countrymen, so, instead of referring to the nation by its name, he began to refer to it as "The
Homeland," a phrase publicly promoted in the introduction to a 1934 speech recorded in Leni
Riefenstahl's famous propaganda movie "Triumph Of The Will." As hoped, people's hearts
swelled with pride, and the beginning of an us-versus-them mentality was sewn. Our land was
"the" homeland, citizens thought: all others were simply foreign lands. We are the "true
people," he suggested, the only ones worthy of our nation's concern; if bombs fall on others, or
human rights are violated in other nations and it makes our lives better, it's of little concern to
US.
Playing on this new nationalism, and exploiting a disagreement with the French over his
increasing militarism, he argued that any international body that didn't act first and foremost in
the best interest of his own nation was neither relevant nor useful. He thus withdrew his
country from the League Of Nations in October, 1933, and then negotiated a separate naval
armaments agreement with Anthony Eden of The United Kingdom to create a worldwide
military ruling elite.
His propaganda minister orchestrated a campaign to ensure the people that he was a deeply
religious man and that his motivations were rooted in Christianity. He even proclaimed the
need for a revival of the Christian faith across his nation, what he called a "New Christianity."
Every man in his rapidly growing army wore a belt buckle that declared "Gott Mit Uns" - God
Is With Us - and most of them fervently believed it was true.
Within a year of the terrorist attack, the nation's leader determined that the various local police
and federal agencies around the nation were lacking the clear communication and overall
coordinated administration necessary to deal with the terrorist threat facing the nation,
particularly those citizens who were of Middle Eastern ancestry and thus probably terrorist and
communist sympathizers, and various troublesome "intellectuals" and "liberals." He proposed a
single new national agency to protect the security of the homeland, consolidating the actions of
dozens of previously independent police, border, and investigative agencies under a single
3/24/03
Page 3 of 5
leader.
He appointed one of his most trusted associates to be leader of this new agency, the Central
Security Office for the homeland, and gave it a role in the government equal to the other major
departments.
His assistant who dealt with the press noted that, since the terrorist attack, "Radio and press are
at out disposal." Those voices questioning the legitimacy of their nation's leader, or raising
questions about his checkered past, had by now faded from the public's recollection as his
central security office began advertising a program encouraging people to phone in tips about
suspicious neighbors. This program was so successful that the names of some of the people
"denonnced" were soon being broadcast on radio stations. Those denounced often included
opposition politicians and celebrities who dared speak out - a favorite target of his regime and
the media he now controlled through intimidation and ownership by corporate allies.
To consolidate his power, he concluded that government alone wasn't enough. He reached out
to industry and forged an alliance, bringing former executives of the nation's largest
corporations into high government positions. A flood of government money poured into
corporate coffers to fight the war against the Middle Eastern ancestry terrorists lurking within
the homeland, and to prepare for wars overseas. He encouraged large corporations friendly to
him to acquire media outlets and other industrial concerns across the nation, particularly those
previously owned by suspicious people of Middle Eastern ancestry. He built powerful alliances
with industry; one corporate ally got the lucrative contract worth millions to build the first
large-scale detention center for enemies of the state. Soon more Would follow. Industry
flourished.
But after an interval of peace following the terrorist attack, voices of dissent again arose within
and without the government. Students had started an active program opposing him (later
known as the White Rose Society), and leaders of nearby nations were speaking out against his
bellicose rhetoric. He needed a diversion, something to direct people away from the corporate
cronyism being exposed in his own government, questions of his possibly illegitimate rise to
power, and the oft-voiced concerns of civil libertarians about the people being held in detention
without due process or access to attorneys or family.
With his number two man - a master at manipulating the media - he began a campaign to
convince the people of the nation that a small, limited war was necessary. Another nation was
harboring many of the suspicious Middle Eastern people, and even though its connection with
the terrorist who had set afire the nation's most important building was tenuous at best, it held
resources their nation badly needed if they were to have room to live and maintain their
prosperity. He called a press conference and publicly delivered an ultimatum to the leader of
the other nation, provoking an international uproar. He claimed the right to strike preemptively
in self-defense, and nations across Europe - at first - denounced him for it, pointing out that it
was a doctrine only claimed in the past by nations seeking worldwide empire, like Caesar's
Rome or Alexander's Greece.
It took a few months, and intense international debate and lobbying with European nations,
after he personally met with the leader of the United Kingdom, finally a deal was struck. After
the military action began, Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain told the nervous British people
that giving in to this leader's new first-strike doctrine would bring "peace for our time." Thus
Hitler annexed Austria in a lightning move, riding a wave of popular support as leaders so
often do in times of war. The Austrian government was unseated and replaced by a new
leadership friendly to Germany, and German corporations began to take over Austrian
3/24/03
Page 4 of 5
resources.
In a speech responding to critics of the invasion, Hitler said, "Certain foreign newspapers have
said that we fell on Austria with brutal methods. I can only say; even in death they cannot stop
lying. I have in the course of my political struggle won much love from my people, but when I
crossed the former frontier [into Austria] there met me such a stream of love as I have never
experienced. Not as tyrants have we come, but as liberators."
To deal with those who dissented from his policies, at the advice of his politically savvy
advisors, he and his handmaidens in the press began a campaign to equate him and his policies
with patriotism and the nation itself. National unity was essential, they said, to ensure that the
terrorists or their sponsors didn't think they'd succeeded in splitting the nation or weakening its
will. In times of war, they said, there could be only "one people, one nation, and one
commander-in-chieff ("Ein Volk, ein Reich, ein Fuhrer"), and so his advocates in the media
began a nationwide campaign charging that critics of his policies were attacking the nation
itself. Those questioning him were labeled "anti-German" or "not good Germans," and it was
suggested they were aiding the enemies of the state by failing in the patriotic necessity of
supporting the nation's valiant men in uniform. It was one of his most effective ways to stifle
dissent and pit wage-earning people (from whom most of the army came) against the
"intellectuals and liberals" who were critical of his policies.
Nonetheless, once the "small war" annexation of Austria was successfully and quickly
completed, and peace returned, voices of opposition were again raised in the Homeland. The
almost-daily release of news bulletins about the dangers of terrorist communist cells wasn't
enough to rouse the populace and totally suppress dissent. A full-out war was necessary to
divert public attention from the growing rumbles within the country about disappearing
dissidents; violence against liberals, Jews, and union leaders; and the epidemic of crony
capitalism that was producing empires of wealth in the corporate sector but threatening the
middle class's way of life.
A year later, to the week, Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia; the nation was now fully at war, and
all internal dissent was suppressed in the name of national security. It was the end of
Germany's first experiment with democracy.
As we conclude this review of history, there are a few milestones worth remembering.
February 27, 2003, was the 70th anniversary of Dutch terrorist Marinus van der Lubbe's
successful firebombing of the German Parliament (Reichstag) building, the terrorist act that
catapulted Hitler to legitimacy and reshaped the German constitution. By the time of his
successful and brief action to seize Austria, in which almost no German blood was shed, Hitler
was the most beloved and popular leader in the history of his nation. Hailed around the world,
he was later Time magazine's "Man Of The Year."
Most Americans remember his office for the security of the homeland, known as the
Reichssicherheitshauptamt and its SchutzStaffel, simply by its most famous agency's initials:
the SS.
We also remember that the Germans developed a new form of highly violent warfare they
named "lightning war" or blitzkrieg, which, while generating devastating civilian losses, also
produced a highly desirable "shock and awe" among the nation's leadership according to the
authors of the 1996 book "Shock And Awe" published by the National Defense University
Press.
3/24/03
Page 5 of 5
Reflecting on that time, The American Heritage Dictionary (Houghton Mifflin Company,
1983) left us this definition of the form of government the German democracy had become
through Hitler's close alliance with the largest German corporations and his policy of using war
as a tool to keep power: "fas-cism O'osh'iz'em) n. A system of government that exercises a
dictatorship of the extreme right, typically through the merging of state and business
leadership, together with belligerent nationalism."
Today, as we face financial and political crises, it's useful to remember that the ravages of the
Great Depression hit Germany and the United States alike. Through the 1930s, however, Hitler
and Roosevelt chose very different courses to bring their nations back to power and prosperity.
Germany's response was to use government to empower corporations and reward the society's
richest individuals, privatize much of the commons, stifle dissent, strip people of constitutional
rights, and create an illusion of prosperity through continual and ever-expanding war. America
passed minimum wage laws to raise the middle class, enforced anti-trust laws to diminish the
power of corporations, increased taxes on corporations and the wealthiest individuals, created
Social Security, and became the employer of last resort through programs to build national
infrastructure, promote the arts, and replant forests.
To the extent that our Constitution is still intact, the choice is again ours.
Thom Hartmann lived and worked in Germany during the 1980s, and is the author of over a
dozen books, including "Unequal Protection" and "The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight" This
article is copyright by Thom Hartmann, but permission is granted for reprint in print, email,
blog, or web media so long as this credit is attached.
3/24/03
"Jo..~o.~u.~ FROM COUNCIL MEMBER PFAB
IOWA
~ IP12
JOHNSON COUNTY EMERGENCY M.,M~AGEMENT
Thomas L. Hansen
Emergency Management Coordinator
March 21, 2003
The Johnson County Emergency Management Commission a.k.a, the Civil Defense
Board will meet in regular session on Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. in
the Sheriff's Conference Room at the Johnson County Jail Building at 511 So.
Capitol Street in Iowa City, Iowa.
AGENDA
1. Meeting called to order by Chairperson at 7:30 p.m.
2. Reading and action on the minutes of February 26 meeting.
3. Reading and action on expenses since the February 26 2003 meeting,
4. Reading and action on the receipts since the February 26, 2003 meeting.
5. Discussion by the Emergency Management Coordinator.
6. Discussion and Action by Commission
a. Old Business
1. Supplemental Grant
2. Homeland Secudty update
3. Approval of EMA Coordinator as Homeland Security liaison/representative to State & Fed.
b. New Business
7. Discussion by Commission Members
8. Discussion by General Public
9. Motion for Adjournment
The next meeting of the Emergency Management Commission will
~ '- beWednesday Apd123, 2003.
51 I S. CAPITOL / P.O. BOX 169 / IOWA CITY, IOWA 52244 / TELEPHONE (319) 356-6028
FAX: (319) 339-6175 EMAIL: jocoema@co.johnson.ia.us
JOHNSON COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY PAGE 1 OF 1
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE SUBMITTED FOR PAYMENT
Month of March 2003
SUBMIT ITEM
DATE VENDOR DESCRIPTION VOUCHER DATE AMOUNT
3/6/03 Electronic Engineering monthly pager 578918 3/13/2003 $9.95
3/6/03 Hy-VeeWaterfmnt EMA meeting 578919 3/13/2003 $49.96
3/6/03 Hy-Vee Waterfront HazMat meeting $120.00
3/6/03 MCI monthly service 57~,~o 3/13/2o03 $38.65
3/6/03 Paul's Discount HazMat meeting exp. 57892t 3/13/2003 $57.17
316/03 Qwest line service 578922 3/13/20[13 $245.76
3/6/03 River Products training equipment 578923 3/13/2003 $19 1. I 5
3/6/03 Vefizon EMA & HazMat cell phonel 578925 3/13/2003 $72.91
3/6/03 Westport van maintenance 578926 3/13/2003 $8.57
3/14/03 'General Pest Control monthly service $40.00
3/14/03 Zach Hickman RI*, ties, shovel & rake $206.16
3/J4/03 IC Press Citizen budget publish $51.98
3n4m Staples disks & tower $21.18
3/14/o3 Westport van maintenance $6.67
3/,7/03 IOS Capitol copier rental $609.06
3/20/03 Family Practice Clinics HazMat physical - Lang $560.00
3/2o/03 New Eal~le Motorola Adapter/Interface cable $150.00
3/20/03 Qwest - small bill telephones $49.80
Total of Page One $2,488.97
Johnson County E.M.A. revenues 2002--2003
July 1, 2003-June 30, 2003
Treas. Sara Jo. Co. FEMA Disaster Other Total
Date Source Receipt Training Grant EMPG Asst. Income Revenues
7/1/02 Reimbursement from State Conf. 47653 $122.90 $122.90
7/1/02 Carry over EM.A. Audit $105,266.78 $105,266.78
7/15/02 Johnson County Grant 47774 $19,703.00 $19,703.00
9/3/02 Alllant Energy 48132 $3,750.00 $3,750.00
10/4/02 Johnson County Grant .... 48381 $19,703.00 $19,703.00
10/15102 HMPG Funding Grant 48476 $1,058.00 $1,058.00
10/24/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48551 $564.00 $564.00
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48577 $285.50 $285.50
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48578 $442.25 $442.25
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48579 $402.00 $402.00
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48580 $1,440.00 $1,440.00
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant 48581 $330.00 $330.00
10/28/02 HMPG Funding Grant ' 48582 $578.50 $578.50
11/12/02 Alliant Energy 48693 $3,750.00 $3,750.00
12/20/02 Pilot Club of Iowa 56 $600.00 $600.00
1/2/03 HMPG Funding Grant 123 $600.00 $600.00
1/2/03 AIIiant Energy Refund for rental 122 $1,140.00 $1,140.00
1/14/03 ,Johnson County Grant 212 $19,703.75 · $19,703.75
1/14/03 HMPG Funding Grant 211 $906.21 $906.21
1/16/03 HMPG Funding Grant 246 $1,169.75 $1,169.75
1/16/03 HMPG Funding Grant 244 $406.50 $406.50
1/16/03 HMPG Funding Grant 245 $513.50 $513.50
1/24/03 HMPG Funding Grant 292 $601.00 $601.00
2/24/03 IKON reimbursement 484 $466.20 $466.20
2/24/03 EMPG Funding Grant 521 $961.36 $961.36
3/24103 EMPG Funding Grant 719 $J6,157.28 $16,157.28
3/24/03 HMPG Funding Grant 718 $448;05 $448.05
--~7-45.~26' ~$59',109.75 $115,095.88 $201,069.53
$17,118.64
JOHNSON COUNTYThomasEMERGENCYL. Hansen MANAGEMENT
Emergency Management Coorciinator
The Johnson County Emergency Management Commission met in regular session on
Wednesday, February 26, 2003 in the Conference Room of the Sheriff's Building located
at 511 So. Capitol Street, Iowa City, Iowa.
In attendance were:
Pat Hamey - Board of Supervisor Gary Kinsinger - Coralville
George Murphy - Hills Irvin Pfab - Iowa City
Dave Smith - Lone Tree Matt Bahl - North Liberty
Don Saxton - Oxford/Chairperson Bob Carpenter - Sheriff
Greg Morris - Solon Dave Shaffer - Tiffin .~
Adrian Schoenmaker - U Heights Tom Hansen - EMA Coordinator
Sue Faith - EMA Asst.
Several members of the Iowa City Fire Dept. were present as guests.
1.) The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chairperson Don Saxton.
2.) The minutes of the December 2002 and January 2003 meetings were read.
George Murphy moved that the minutes be approved and accepted. Dave Smith seconded the
motion. Motion carried.
3.) The minutes of the January 2, 2003 Public Hearing were read.
Dave Smith moved that the minutes be accepted. Greg Morris seconded the motion. Motion
carried.
4.) The report of expenses accrued since December 4th meeting were read.
There were questions about the HazMat track. A check has been issued and the building has
begun. There was a question about the expense for one person to attending a HazMat mining.
Dave Smith moved that the report be accepted. George Murphy seconded the motion. Motion
carried.
5.) The report of receipts and revenues since the December 2002 meeting were read.
Dave Smith moved that the report be accepted. Gary Kinsinger seconded the motion. Motion
carried.
6.) Discussion by EMA Coordinator.
Tom Hansen informed the Commission that there is a lot going on. An important thing is that the
Coordinator needs to be appointed as the sole representative to Homeland Security. This is
important because there are so many entities looking at control over Homeland Security monies
including hospimis, health departments, etc. As the representative to Homeland Security all
money would be channeled through EMA and would prevent duplication of programs and
expenses. The money wi/1 come fi-om the federal government to the state level and then to the
local level. As the Homeland Security representative Tom would meet with all involved and
distribute the money as appropriate.
51 S. CAPITOL/P.O. BOX 169 / IOWA CITY, IOWA 52244 / TELEPHONE (319) 356-6028
FAX: (319) 339-6175 EMAIL: jocoema@co.johnson.ia.us
There is a push for a Statewide Mutual Aid Compact. Tom plans to'have a State representative
come to present this information to the Board of Supervisom. This will not replace 29E
agreements. This is a voluntary program and is being presented to all 99 counties. The goal is to
provide resources to all counties should there ever be a major incident. Basically it is formalizing
what is already in practice.
Tom attended the EMAP mining that is part of the Supplemental'Grant program that has been
presented to the Commission in the past several months. Basically, if the work is done by the
Johnson County EMA office 5% can be kept or if the grant is conlracted out 5% can be kep~ by
the local EMA office for administrative fees so everyone in the state is contracting it out. EMAP
is an assessment and when the finished report is done the assessment is done, a strategic plan and
supplemental grant. This will be the future EMPG (Emergency Management Planning Grant).
There were questions about the division of the money and Tom explained that if the grant is done
in house the county gets to keep 5% and if the grant is con~'acted out the county keeps only 5%.
The total grant is worth $29,000 and 5% of that is about $1,500.00. Tom informs the Commission
that no matter what the grant must be done. The State IEMD has lost some planners who plan on
doing the grant writing. Tom explained the term "supplanting" meaning that you can't replace a
local income with the federal money. There were questions about if the grant couldn't be done by
someone already employed by the county. Tom replied that it must be someone with credentials -
planning classes, etc. There was a lot of discussion about this issue and Tom remained firm that it
is possible for it to be done locally but that it won't be cost effective. The Commission members
continued to question the overall process and reasoning. Tom finally informed the Commission
that he already has someone that will conlract the grant and who has already started working on it.
Sharon Gerot, the former Fayette County Emergency Management Coordinator, has not signed a
contract but has started working on the grant. When questioned about the cost of the work done so
far Tom told the Commission that he has not received a bill yet for the work done. Dave Smith
questioned the conlract process without consulting the Commission first. There was also a
question about conflict of interest. Tom told the Commission that there are quarterly reports due
soon. The question came up about whether it is possthle for this office to do this or to find out if
Sue is capable of doing the grant, who do we need to contact to clear this up? Tom clarified that
he is not doing the Johnson County Supplemental grant but that Sharon Gerot is. Tom also
informed the Commission that they will have to write a conlract with Sharon to do this grant.
To meet the quarterly reporting requirements it could be stated that the application has been made
and that the assessment materials have been ordered and some groundwork laid. Remember that
there are other things going on including the CHER-CAP drill that Sue is working on. Tom
agreed to make telephone calls to get answers to the questions that the Commission members
have. Eventually Tom thinks that this Supplemental Grant will be tied to the HMPG and HazMat
grants which pay a portion of wages and expenses in this office.
Dave Smith made a motion that any action on the contract or work on the supplemental
grant be tabled until next month so that questions about the particulars can be answered.
lrv Pfab seconded the motion. Additional conversation and questions followed. Motion
carried.
Mitigation Plans - University Heights done.
HazMat l~'uck $240,000 akeady paid and the track should be done in August and when it comes
we pay another $30,000.
Tom addressed the Pharmaceutical Stockpile which is a federal program. This program is one
where large quantities of vaccines, antidotes and medical supplies would be flown in to the Cedar
Rapids airpo~ should there ever be a local disaster - especially a biochemical event - and the
supplies would be trucked to Iowa City where we would need to warehouse it and prepare for
distn'hntion to the surrounding areas. There are specific requirements for this storage space which
Tom listed and he then went on to inform the Commission that he has contacted Bekins
Storage/Randy Stannard and they will contract with State for this purpose.
7.) Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m. to allow Public Hearing on the FY ~04 Budget.
Copies of the budget were dis~ibuted. Pat Harney questioned a couple of numbers and Tom
informed him that he had gotten numbers from a different person in the Auditor's Office than Pat
had talked to. There was no public comment and no questions.
8.) Regular meeting was reconvened at 8:25 p.m.
Irvin Pfab moved that the FY'04 Budget be accepted and adopted. G~orge Murphy seconded the
motion. Motion carried.
9.) Discussion and Action by the Commission
A. Old Business
1. Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chair
There was a motion and second that Don Saxton and George Murphy continue in the
roles for another term. Motion carried.
2. Supplemental Graat. Earlier in the meeting Dave Smith made a motion that action on the
Supplemental Grant be ~abled until the March meeting of the Commission. The motion
was seconded by Irv Pfab and the motion carried.
3.Mitigation Plans - University Heights Mitigation Plan is done and the other communities
will be approached in the future.
4. HazMat response vehicle. Information was shared earlier in this meeting. No action
required at this meeting.
B. New Business I. Pharmaceutical Stockpile. - See Coordinator's comments earlier.
2. Threat Level update - information handed out regarding this.
10. Discussion by Commission Members
]~v Pfab informed the Commission that he would be going to D.C. in the near future and would be
willing to can~ comments, information and concerns from the Commission with him and he was sure
that he will have the opportunity to meet with Governor Ridge. l 1
11. Comments from the General Public.
There were none.
12. Call for adjournment
Greg Morris moved that the meeting be adjourned. Motion seconded by numerous ' ,
Commission members. Motion carried. Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
The next meeting of the Emergency Management Commission
Will be Wednesday, March 26t~.
Weather Spotter Training
"Back to Basics"
When: Wednesday, April 16, 2003.
Dinner- 6:00 p. n~
Program - 6:30 p. n~
Where: Montgomery Hall
Johnson County Fairgrounds
Who: Law Enforcement
Fire Fighters
First Responders
School Officials
Medical Facilities people
RSVP to Johnson County Emergency
Management at 356-6028 by Friday,
April 11 to reserve a seat.
· : pment & Planning_
Service
6150 ,%~e~,4~,~, (~eat Drive
March 26, 2003 V~ FACS~E
Johnpo~ C~un%- Emergem~ M~agement Agency
Tom Ha~se~, County C~rdinator
lowa!CR{', I~ 52244
c: 9me[ge~lcy ~agemcnl Fi~l Year 2002 Supplemen~l Grant
De~iTom: i
Attac~ed yog. ~,hI] 5nd the pro~o~ Scope of Work SOW) ~nd Cost Propose for fl~e Emergency
Management ~scE Year ~002 vupplemental Grant ~o~am
The ~ropos~fl SOW mee~s ~d exce,~ds the miniraum Slate and Federal requirements add has
also ~ec!ntl~ been re~ewea for ~orou~mess and a~uracv by ~e staff cf the Iowa Em~gencv
Management Division (IEMD} ~d the pl~mng staff at the Federal Emergency Management
Agen}:y (~E~A) - Re~n ~I m Kansas Ci~', MO.
~Wn~ 120 4~00 5,~0.00
j Com~ ~ger, cy Re~n~ re~ ~40 ~ 4S O0 6,300.~
~u~t~ ~Id ~:y be respons~ f~ t~ ~ to e~ed ~m~u~.
Should ~ou ~a~e questions and/or cc,mment~ ~garding ~he attached Co~t Propo~l or SOW,
pleas~ ~ n& heskate re covXact me ~t (515) 251-377~ or by email
~eveI~V~en~d~chsi.com. I look fo~ard to wor~ng together m ~e 5~mre.
Sincerely,
mdw?t~e~elopment & m~ing Sero'ice
SCOPE OF WORK
COST PROPOSAL
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FISCAL YEAR 2002 SUPPLEMENTAL GRANT
DATE: March 26, 2003
TO: Tom Ha.risen, Johnson Comity Emergency Management Agency
FROM: Brad>' Robbms, Midwest De~.elopment ~ planning: Service, LLC'
SECTION ONE - SCOPE OF WORK
The ob./ective of the Emergency Management Fiscal Year 2002 Supplemental Grant
pro~.arri is to conduct planning and assessment exerctses in various functional areas.
Based on our prevlcus conversations, the Johnson County Emergency M~magement
Agency ~is ~onsidering contracting services specifically for:
1. Emergency Managemen~ Accreditation Program tEMAP) Self-
Assessment;
2. Development and Writing of r_he Strategic Plani
3. Development mad Implementation of an Action Plan for the Citizen
Corps; a_nd the
4. Development and Implementation of an Action Plan tbr the
Coraraunity Emergency Response Team (CERT)
Thrcmgh the proposed Scope of Work (SOW - See Attachment # 1) mud ha§ed on the
existing reemirements of the Emergency Management Commissions, when completed,
this ~>rdpo~d SOW will: 1) Deliver a complete and accurate EMAP Self-AsseSSment; 2)
A Compliant Strate~c' Plan based upon the reclu;rements of the Io~a ,Emerge
Marfia~m~ixt Div/sion (tEMD; 3) An implemented and functional Citizen Corps
Prog~./~t~ w.'it~hin Johnso~ County; and 4) An implemented and functional Community
The }taft ~ Midwest Development & Planning Service, LLC (MDPS) will work with the
Johnson ; Emergency Management Commission and the ~ respective
cou~tie~/fiommunities where appropriate [o complete the SOW. AE work, pr/or to all
Fin~ Vets{ohS, ~-lll be pre~ented to the respectk-e parties for suggestion and:revision.
With, respect [o all deliverables a sones of opportumtaes will be available for pubhc
comment (not to exceed thirty, day~ unless other~mse specffied} All public comments
and hu~,ge~tions will be recorded and made available to all respective partie~.
Thi~ Scope of Work is Proprietary Information of MDPS, LLC
SECTION,TWO - COST PROPOSAL
MD~S [ch~u'ges on/y those fees, which allow it to remrdn competi~iw:~. ~herefore, the
fees clear§ed are usury less ~ ~_ose of oth~ p~vate consult~nts~
Cos~ prop0s~s for each of the projects ~e hsted below:
, ~p~ed Budget ~ement ~ated Per Ho~r Tot~
S~-Assessmen~ ~ocess ~ Too~t 320 45 00: !4,40000
Sqa~g~q Pi~ %kmng 120 ~5.00, 5,400.00
~, Co~munkY'Emer~cn~y ~cspon~e T~ 140 ~500 6,300,00
T~L ~OJ~ COST
The ~agenqV's hourly f~ ~cludes meetings ~d beings ~th ~e respective paxfies,
travel 60 ~d from ~o$c m¢c~gs, pmn~ing drMts of documents, prep~ihg he~g
nonces p~ep~ng adop~on mateH~s, ~nd M1 applicable postage, phone, ~d p~nfing
cost~. Under contract, ~e Emergen~ M~agemcnt Co=ission w~l receiue ~ree (3)
copies Of ~1 From Versi~s.
This Scope of W'ork is Proprietary ln]Orm#tion of MDPS, L£ C
FY 2002 Supplemental Grant
, - Scope of Work Proposal -
1. Re ,q~, n~en~ upon Completion:
A. Completion of the Local Self Assessment of the Emer§ency .Management
Accre~ation Program {EMAP) '
., ,Compl~tmn of a Str¢.tefi~c Plan developea m accordance wi~h the findings of the
EMAP Local Self Assessment
(2. Development and Implementazlon of an Action Plan for the Citizen Corps
D, Development and .mplementauon of an Acuon Plan for the Community
Em4rgency Resi~ns¢ Team (CERT)
2. Plan Process:
A Qr~a-ntzation of group or committee tasked with Plan developmen~ to include:
iL Commission Represcntafive~
15. Local Representatives
~, ..$.ta.~e Represent.atives (as needed)
d. Cer~muni~' Leaders
e. Business Deaders
f. Educators
g. Interested Public
h. Neighboring Cormmunity Leaders
i. Hospital/Healthcare Professionals
3, Emergency Management Accreditation Program (EMAP~ Self-A~sessment A, N~anagcment 9f Emergency Management Progran,.~
B. Laws and Authorities
C. Hazard Identitication and Risk Assessment
D. Hazard Mitigation
E P~e~?urce Management
~. Planning
G. Direction, Control and Coordination
H. C~ommunications and Warning
Operations and procedures
J; Logistics and Fac4.J. ities
K, ~-~duing
L. Exercises Evaluations, and Corrective Acfion~
M Cftc'is Communications, l%blic Education and information
N Einance and Administration
4. Stra,~egic Plan
A~. Aclmowle. dgment$
I~, Overx4e~v of Plan
C. T~ends iand Conditions
D Baseline Determination
~. Emergeac~' Management Mission for the Cormmission
F! Guiding Principle Development
G:. ObjectiVes
H. Jurisdictional Priorities
I. Attachments/Appendices
17ds ,Scope of ~ork is Proprietary Information of 3IDPS, LAC
J. P, la~ Development
K. tfaplementat~on
L. Eva/luafion
5. Cit~el~ Corps
A. E~t~bhsh a C~ Co~s Coun~l ac~n~ on beh~f of Johnson Co~
B. Development af a trac~g system to monitor Cit~ Co~$ ac~ties
' Coun~ ,
C. DeVelopment of a ~sk As~ssment ~ ~ch the Ci~n Corps ~, where
feasible, ~sist ~ ov~co~g
6. Comm~ Emergency Res~nse Te~ (CERT)
A. Co~du~ 2'(~o) CE~ Tr~[ Sessions (to b~ conduced by MDFS s~f or
~p~nh-~ ~ by MDPS)
B. ~re 'feasible based on a dele~a~on to be made by both, MDPS ~d ~e
~o~ston Coun~ Emer~en~ M~a~m~n~ Atency, assist
effo~ ~d exp~on effo~s of e~s~g pro~r~s
7. ~bHc ~ci~tion/Comment Period, ~d ~b~c
A.E~p~n ~mpI~on of ~ deliverables, oppo~Jties for
p~cipa~on/comment ~d~ e~s~ f~ a 30-day pe~od
a: To be ~ a conspi~ous space such as City HE1, ~bhc
Schools, elc,
8. ~ten~oe and ~ Cont~ua~on
A, pl~ Mo~lo~g, ~Eualion ~fl U~a~es
a. A~ E~s should b~ ~vi~ed ~u~v to de~er~e pro~ effec~veness',
b, A~ a ~mum, ~ plus ~ be reviewed al a m~um of ~e~ fige ye~s or
~ conjunc~on ~ ~y lunge request ~at is ~led for i~derE ~!aster
~nds,
B. Pi~ Implementa~on ~rough ~s~
a. As deemed approp~ale by Com~u~y Government, ~ Pt~s sh~ be
~cq~ora~ed m~o e~s~ or proposed development of ~mprehensive Pl~s,
d-Use Plus ~d ~e approp~a~e pro~ that accomp~y such
C. ~n~afion of ~blic Involvement
a. ~ ~ ~ reco~ended ~ ~ P~s ~a~ ~ey be pubhcly reviewed ~ith
appropriate ~e~e ~or ~bhc Comment forcing
Decided Disaster; or
b. ~en &e Pl~ is renewed at its 5 ye~ ~nivers~'
This Scope of gg'ork is Proprietary' Information of 3fDPS, LLC
TOTAL P.B6
- EAST CENTRAL IOW,~ ;'
COUNCIL OF GOyERNMENTS ,
YOURRECqONA[PLANNINGAC,~NCY [Submitted by Council Member
Wilburn]
MEMORANDUM
DATE: February 19, 2003
TO: ECICOG Board of Directors
FROM: Doug Ellio~ive Director
SUBJECT: Next Meeting - Thursday, March~27, 2003
The ECICOG Board of Directors will meet on Thursday, March 27, 2003, at 1:00 p.m., at the
ECICOG offices. An agenda for tbe meeting and minutes of the February 27m meeting are
encloged. Ot~h~er items are highlighted below:
Ite~ 1.4 Public'Hearing: As 'decided'at your February meeting, the~'boa~l will hold a public
hearing to receive comment on the agency's FY 2004 Consolidated Transit Application.
Item 2.0 Routine Matters: Financial statements for the month of February are enclosed. The
statexnents reflect a healthy cash position, and I would encourage the board to receive and file
them for audit.
Item 3.3 Director's Report: As you'll recall, I will not be at the meeting next weeld.- Mary Rump
will assist Chairperson Brown with the meeting. When appropriate~ I have provided additional -
information in this cover letter or within the packet for youi' consideration.
I have enclosed a separate report on the three meetings I attend'ed in the last month regard~g the
Iowa Values proposal as presented by the Iowa Depamment of Economig Development (IDED).
Bom'.d members Ed Raber and Aaron Chittenden also attended the meeting in T~!pton, and I'll rely
up.on them to assist the board in discussing this topic.
Item 3.4 Community Development Report:~A staff report is enclosed. In addition, staff ~bill
present for the board's c6nsideration a protocol for agency review andcomment on annexations
in the region. Additional information will be provided at the meeting.
Item 3.5 Housing Report: A staff report.is enclosed. At this writing, staff is still assessing the
viability of~the regional housing assistance program discussed at the February meeting.
Additional information ~}ill be presented at the meeting, and the board may be asked to approve
submittal of an application to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines should staff propose
it.
108 Third Str. eet SI~, Suite 300 Cedar' R~pids, Iowa ~](~]~)36S-9941 FAX 319-365-9981 www. ia.net/-edcog
Next Meeting
March 19, 2003
Page 2
Also, the FY 2004 budget approved by the board at the January meeting contained the option of
creating and filling a Housing Specialist position, pending the agency's success in securing
adequate funding for housing program contracts. As presented in the enclosed housing report,
several housing programs were recently funded by IDED. I believe these programs will provide
adequate revenues to establish the Housing Specialist position, and will provide additional
information at the April meeting.
Items 3.6 & 3.7 Circuit Rider & Solid Waste Reports: Staffreports are enclosed.
Item 3.8 Transportation Reports: A staffreport is enclosed. The board will be asked to
authorize submittal of the FY 2004 Consolidated Transit Application for the ECIT. The board
will also be asked to review and approve proposals for transit vehicle acquisition and to approve
an extension of the transit service contract with Washington County Minibus.
Item 4.5 Solid Waste TAC: Minutes of the most recent meeting are enclosed.
Please review the remainder of the enclosed materials, and contact us if you have questions
before the meeting on the 27th.
Eno.
East Central Iowa Council of Governments Board Meeting? Notice
1:00 P.M. March 27, 2003
East Central Iowa Council of Governments
108 Third Street SE, Suite 300
cedar Rapids, I0wa
TEL 365-9941 FAX 365-9981
pages
1.0 CALL TO ORDER
· 1 Recognition of Alternates
.2 Public Discussion
.3 Approval of Agenda
.4 Public Heating - ECIT Consolidated Transit Application
2.0 ROUTINE MATTERS
1-12 .1 Approval of Minutes (February 27, 2003)
13-15 .2 Preceding Month's Budget Reports/Balance Sheets
3.0 AGENCY REPORTS
.1 Chairperson's Report
.2 Board Members' Reports
16-17 .3 Director's Report
18-19 .4 Community Development Report
· Annexation Review Protocol ·
20-22 .5 Hqusing Report
· Regional Housing Assistance Program
23 .6 Circuit Rider RepOrt
24 .7 Solid Waste Report
25-27 .8 Transportation Report
· Authorizing Resolution - ECIT Consolidated Transit Application
· Transit Vehicle Proposals
· ECIT Contract - Washington County Mini Bus
4.0 COMMITTEE REPORTS
· 1 Executive Committee
.2 Personnel Committee
.3 Budget Committee
.4 Transit Operators Group -
28229 .5 Solid Waste Technical Advisory Committee
.6 Ad Hoc Committee Reports '
30-41 5~0 IOWA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW SYSTEM
6.0 OLD BUSINESS
· 1 Approval of Expenditures
7.0 NEW BUSINESS
8.0 NEXT MEETING: April 24, 2003
ECICOG is the Region l O planning agency serving local governments in the counties of Benton, Iowa, Johnson,
Jones, Linn, and Washington.
MINUTES ~'~
East Central Iowa Council of Governments
Board Meeting 1:00 p.m. - February 27, 2003
108 Third Street SE, Suite 300
MEMBERS PRESENT
Ed Brown-Mayor of Washington
Ric Gerard-Iowa County Supervisor
Charlie Montross-Iowa County Supervisor
Wade Wagner-Cedar Rapids Commissioner
Leo Cook-Jones County Supervisor
Ann Hearn-Linn County Citizen
David Vermedahl-Benton County Supervisor
Aaron Chittenden-Jones County Citizen
Dennis Hansen-Jones County Citizen
Gary Edwards-Iowa County Citizen
Don Magdefrau-Benton County Citizen
Dawn Pettengill-Mayor of Mt. Auburn
Pat Harney-Johnson County Supervisor
Ross Wilburn-Iowa City City Council
Larry Wilson-Johnson County Citizen
MEMBERS ABSENT
James Houser-Linn County Supervisor
Bob Stout- Washington County Supervisor
Lu Barron-Linn County Supervisor
Ed Raber- Washington County Citizen
Tom Tjelmeland-Mayor of Ely
Henry Herwig-Coralville City Council
ALTERNATES PRESENT - None
OTHER'S PRESENT - None
STAFF PRESENT
Doug Elliott-Executive Director
Gina Peters-Administrative Assistant
Jennifer Ryan-Planner
Tracey Mulcahey - Grants Administrator
Catherine Hankey-Circuit Rider
Lisa Treharne-Planner
Lisa-Marie Garlich-Planner
Mary Rump-IT/TransportationPlanner
Robyn Jacobson-Transit Administrator -
Chad Sands-Planner
1.0 CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order bY Chairperson, Ed Brown at 1:06 p.m.
.1 Recognition of Alternates - None
.2 Public Discussion - None
.3 Approval of Agenda
M/S/C (Hansen/Wilson) to approve the agenda. All ayes.
2.0 ROUTINE MATTERS
.1 Approval of Minutes (January 30, 2003)
M/S/C (Magdefrau/Gerard) to approve the minutes as written. All ayes.
1
.2 Preceding Month's Budget Reports/Balance Sheets
(Cook joined the meeting at this time.)
Elliott gave an overview of the January financial statements.
M/S/C (Hansen/Montross) to receive and file the January financial statements for audit. All ayes.
3.0 AGENCY REPORTS
.1 Chairperson's Report - None
.2 Board Members' Reports - None
.3 Director's Report
Elliott told the board the IDOT has scheduled annual input meetings and will be in Cedar Rapids on April 15.
Brown asked Elliott to e~mail board members the IDOT meeting schedule.
Elliott noted that he will be on vacation at the time of the March meeting and told the board Rump would assist
Brown with the board meeting.
(Harney joined the meeting at this time.)
Elliott told the board July 1 is ECICOG's 30t~ anniversary and asked if the board would like to do anyth'mg to
commemorate.
He also handed out the 2002 ECICOG Annual Update.
OYilburn joined the meeting at this time.)
Elliott gave an update on the Govemofs Iowa Works proposal, and handed out information (attached). Discussion
followed.
He also told the board he would be attending a meeting on March 13 at US Bank in Tipton. This is one of several
meetings which will be conducted by IDED ~) review Iowa Values. For purpeses of these meetings, IDED has
broken the state up into regions. Elliott handed out a map (attached).
.4 Community Development Report
Sands told the board ECICOG is the 2~ fastest growing region in the state and staff has been asked to write several
letters of support for annexation. He asked the board for direction in creating a policy for writing these letters on
behalf of the cities that ask for them. Discussion followed. Sands is to draft a policy that states specific criteria and
protocol for responding to requests for letters of support for annexation. The board will review and discuss this
policy at the March board meeting.
Garlich told the board about a recent ICN workshop she attended about South Sioux City, NE, a paperless city. She
handed out a listing of upcoming ICN workshops (attached).
.5 Housing Report
Mulcahey told the board on March 5, grant awards will be announced. Brown asked her to e-mail the results to all
board members that have e-mail.
Trehame told the board she was interested in pursuing a FHLB regional application for emergency home repairs for
persons in Benton, Iowa, Linn, and Jones Counties. The grant would need to be submitted by April 1. She will be
making presentations in the next few weeks to the board of supervisors in each of the counties.
.6 Circuit Rider Report
Hankey gave an overview of the current projects she is working on.
.7 Solid Waste Report
Ryan told the board the e-waste collection grants submitted on behalf of the Iowa City Landfill and Benton County
Landfill were both funded.
She announced that the annual Business Recycling Challenge will be held on April 2 and passed around a postcard
detailing the event.
(Cook left the meeting at this time.)
Ryan gave a presentation on the recycling evaluation project that she and DeVries have been working on for the past
year.
.8 Transportation Report
Jacobson told the board the consolidated transit application is due on April 1. A public hearing must be held before
the application is submitted and could be held at the March board meeting.
M/S/C (Gerard/Hansen) to set the public hearing for the consolidated transit application for March 27, 2003 at 1:00
pm. All ayes.
4.0 COMMITTEE REPORTS
.1 Executive Committee - None
.2 Personnel Committee - None
.3 Budget Committee - None
.4 Transit Operator's Group - None
.5 Solid Waste Technical Advisory Committee - None
.6 Ad Hoc Committee Reports - Transit Services Review Committee
Heam handed out a request for additional contracted services fi.om Johnson County SEATS (attached). She said the
committee had met prior to the board meeting and recommends approving this request with a favorable review.
M/S/C (GerardFv'ermedahl) to approve the request fi.om Johnson County SEATS for meal delivery in Lone Tree and
Nichols with favorable review. All ayes.
(Wagner left the meeting at this time.)
5.0 IOWA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW SYSTEM
M/S/C (Heam/Chittenden) to approve all Intergovernmental Reviews with a favorable review. All ayes.
6.0 OLD BUSINESS
.1 Approval of Expenditures
M/S/C (Montross/Edwards) to approve payment of expenditures. All ayes.
7.0 NEW BUSINESS - None
8.0 NEXT MEETING: March 27, 2003
The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m.
David Vermedahl, Secretary/Treasurer
February 27, 2003
Date
3
DesMoinesRegister.com I News [ Page I of 3
· DesMomes egls :er o
~ H~: News
~ow~ I State Government
Educat~ pi
$2 billion an aims to rev up economy in Iowa
~aU~ By JONATH~
P~a~ Re0ister S~ff Writer
wevWar ~s ~e ~slat~ on Wednesday took ~ im~fl~t first st~ towed creating
~ ~pr~edented $2 billion pl~ to ener~ze Iowa's economy.
Obituaries
Key Republic,s ~d Democrats working on the effo~ a~eed ~at ~e
Forums pro~sed ~ono~c development ~nd should be $2 billion, which is four th~
times ~e ~o~t reCOmmended by Gov. Tom Vilsack.
Business "We w~t to st~ ~der ~e ~s~ption that we're going to do some~ing
big," said Sen. Jeff L~be~i, ~ ~eny RepUblic~ who heads ~e senate M~
: Appropriations Co~ittee. ,
Ooinion
Life Vilsack, a D~t, si~al~ ~s suppo~ in a prepped statement
Wednesday ni~t but also indicated that differences remain.
Ente~inment He said he w~ enco~aged ~at le~slato~ were show~g a ~llin~ess "to 1
Marketplace act ~ldly ~d begin the work of ~sfo~ing our ~conomy ~d creat~g
i
op~fl~ity for eve~ Iowa. ~s comes ~ a welcome si~ ~at we c~
Help work together."
' ~e ~slat~e is still a long Way ~om p~sing such a PI~, Which p~bbably '
would tAe several ye~ to implement.
~ers ~d ~e gov~or face difficult decisions about how to raise
such a huge ~o~t of money ~ou~ bonding or by other me~s. But
leaders s~d se~ing a goal of having a $2 billion ~d w~ a si~ific~t
st~ing point.'
Vilsack e~lier proposed a $500 million Iowa Values Fund to addr~s Iowa's
sta~t ~onomy. He sugg~ted that the state r~se the money by issuing
bonds ~d r~a~ng ~e debt with g~bling revenue.
"~stead of $500 million, the'goal is $2 billion. But how you get to the $2
httn'//rleen'~.~in~err~o;et,~r r'r~mln~xxteletr~r;~e/r,d."IROO"4A A }00(1(1 htrnl
DesMoinesRegis~,om I News Page 2 of 3
billion remains to be seen," s~id Sen. Bill Dotzler, a Wat~rlog Democrat
who is involved the economic development talks. The state likely would
issue bonds to raise most of the money, he said, although some of it could
take the form of tax credits.
The $2 billion goal dwarfs the $225 million that was raised through bonding
for Vision Iowa, the community attractions program that's been used to help
pay for museums, convention centers and other projects aimed at improving
Iowa's quality of life.
Lawmakers emphasized that a concrete plan on how to raise and spend the
money has yet to be fleshed out, although Republicans have proposed some
spending benchmarks.
Under the GOP's preliminary proposal for using the $2 billion, the money
would be spent in four areas: $1.12 billion for job creation, including seed
money for biotechnology and other targeted industries; $400 million for
school construction; $320 million for roads, utilities, parks and community
attraction programs such as Vision Iowa; and $160 million for marketing
Iowa.
Lawmakers also have suggested a different name for the new economic
development fund: BIO; or the Bring it On fund. The name is a response to-
a recent newspaper ad by South Dakota Gov. Mike Rounds, which invited
Iowa and Minnesota to "bring it on" in trying to compete with the economic
advantages claimed by South Dakota.
"It kind of goes offthe fight we had with South Dakota," Dotzler said.
"We're very serious about economic development and we want the country
to know we're serious about economic development efforts."
BIO also alludes to the emphasis that state leaders want to place on the
growth of biotechnology and other types of"new economy" companies that
they believe are key to Iowa's future.
The $2 billion goal matches the amount suggested by the Iowa Farm Bureau
in a proposal offered by the organization earlier this month.
The Farm Bureau said the state could borrow $2 billion for economic
development and school infrastructure projects, then pay off the debt by
taking a slice of property taxes fi.om across the state that are now used for
local development projects.
Lamberti said legislators are interested in the Farm Bureau's proposal but
have made no commitment to use that financing plan.
' ~'~' Adve~
httm//desmoinesreeister.conffnews/stories/c4780934/ 5 9900.html 2/27/03
STIR i 0 WA
Statewide Tax lnCrement Renewal
· General Concept: Eliminate 2,000 existing
TIF districts, and rePlace them with a single
statewide TIF.
Goal:
Targeted Smart Economic DeVelopment
Elimination of School: InfrastrUctUre Inequity
Long Term PropertY TaX Relief '
Reduced Government Expenditures ~
STIR Iowa: Maximize Under-Utilized Assets
Plan Specifics
1. Eliminate all Tax Increment Financing areas upon enactment.
2. All local TIF increments will be released to their taxing district
bases.
3. A Statewide TIF will be created, equal to 4.5% of Statewide
taxable valuation. (Local TIF is 5% of valuation and growing)
4. Each taxing diStrict will contribute 4.5% of its Value to the
STIR.
5. All existing TIF obligations will be retired by the STIR Iowa
Fund.
6. The State will issue $2 billion in revenue bondS. Revenues
will be used wisely to maximize economic gain in Iowa by
capitalizing on the state's comparative advantages.
II~ED/PDI Regional Meetings Regarding
Regional Approach to Economic Development
Lyon
CONTACT: Joe Jungewaard, Regional Strategies Coordinator, IDED, 515-242-4730
Region 7 - Drew Conrad, Institute of Decision Making, UNI, 319-273-6941
Region 8 - Steve Lacina, Cedar County Economic Development, 563-886-3761
Region 12 - Jennifer Daly, Mt. Pleasant Chamber of Commerce & ADC, 319-385-3101
A Community workshop series presented by the Iowa Department of
Economic Development, the [owa Rural Development Council and
the :[owa Association of Regional Councils delivered via
http://www.community.state.ia.us/2OlOworkshops.html
Series One Workshops
February 26th, 2003 10:00 - Noon -- Special Presentation
Workshop links: Public Technology (PT[), Urbandale Presentation, South Sioux City
Presentation (note: 25 MB)
South Sioux City, NebraSka, a 21st century Rural Community ·
South Sioux City, Nebraska has invested a lot of time~ effort and financial resources to
make their city a .technology leader not just in the Midwest, but nationally. Because of their
efforts, South SiOux City has become the first paperless city i~ the nation. Using technology ~
programs and paperless initiativ~s;'the~y~ave managed to streamline government and
provide unparalleled community acces~s~t0 information;
In collaboration with iowa Rural Development cOunCil, iOwa Association of Regional
Councils, IoWa League of Cities, and Iowa State AssOCiation of Counties....we are proud to
present - Lance Hedquist, City Administrator, South Sioux City, NE, and Steve Ingracia,
Olsson Associates at a Special Showing of our Models for Success workshops! This is a story
that begins with a vision to transform city government into a 21st Century delivery system
and the journey they traveled to take them there.
in addition to this presentation will be discussion roundtables facilitated by Beth Danowsky,
Executive Director, Iowa Rural Develol~__ment COuncil. Paperless government, new
technologies and ohline processes offer new opportunities that does not eliminate jobs, bUt
rather, enhances the way local governments interact with their constituents, allowing local
government to be more efficient, more effective and more responsive to local needs, it's a
new way of doing business. What do you think? How do you see local government in the
future? Bring your questions, your thoughts, and your own examples and experiences to
share] This is an opportunity to engage your peers in dialogue to benefit from the collective
knowledge of others.
9
EAST cENTRAL IOWA
COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS
YOUR REGIONAL PD~INING AGENCY
MEMORA~NDUM
DATE: March 19,'2003
TO: ECICOG .B~ of~rectors -
FROM: Doug Elliot~utive Director ~
SUBJECT: Iowa Values
Over the last two weeks, I have attended three meetings presented by the)owa-
Department of Economic Development (IDED) to provide information and gather input
on Iowa Values. Iowa Values is the Governor's proposal to invigorate Iowa's economy
through regional economic development efforts.
~ The attached summary of Io~a Values was not provided at the meetings, but was
_ prepared by fi)ED for general distribution. Basically, Iowa Values provides incentives
,. for economic development organizations to form regions 6f three or more counties. The
incentives are enumerated as items 1-5 on the lower portion of the attachment. These
_ ..~ resources would only be aVailable to communities/counties, which are part of a region as
recognized by fi)ED.
As noted on the attachment, there are no proscribed boundaries for regions. However
fi)ED has proposed basic criteria for constituting a region. They are:
· A region must be a minimum of three counties
· Noislands can be created through the formation of a region ......
· A regional strategic economic development plan must be in place
· A regional unified marketing plan must be in place
· The region must be a public/private partnership with lOCal inve'stment
· The region must determine its own decision-making'prOCess and governance.
Having attended three meetings, my observation is that reaction to the proposal is mixed
- from complacency to cynicism. There has been general support for infusing $500
million into economic development efforts in the state. Concerns have centered ar6und
the issue of regionalization, e~g., re:inventing the wheel, disenfranchiSing rural
areas/smaller communities, lack of more guidance from lDED in forming regio.ns.
This is an issue that you must monitor daily to stfiy on top o[ There are now at least six
proposals being reviewed by the legislature, which range from $500 million to $2.2
billion. It appears Clear,'however, that a significant plan of some form will be passed in
this session, which will change the way cities, counties, and ECICOG do business.
I encourage you to discuss this issue at the March board meeting. Ag~n, I hope Ed Raber
and Aaron Chittenden (as well as others who may have attended a meeting) will share
their observations. I look forward to reviewing your deliberations upgn my return.
108 Third Street SE, Suite 300 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401 ~ 5-9941 FAX 319-365-9981 www. ia:net/-edcog
~'~ ~ Department of
~ .~ Economic Development
IOW
SMART IDEATM
Regionalism - What do we know for sure?
· There is NO existing map dictating the regions
· Local organizations working together for economic development will be established by the
local leadership
· A marketing plan/strategy for the region will be developed and enacted by the local
leadership (targeting cluster business development mutually beneficial for the area)
· Regions will be eligible for proposed $100 million Iowa Values Fund to assist with creation of
regional revolving loan funds and regional development initiatives
· Economic development assistance will continue to be provided from all the existing service
deliverers (COGs, Community Colleges, RC&D, Universities, etc.)
· The region will utilize the service providers as they see fit
· The IDED will continue to offer assistance with planning, training, marketing, and other
necessary information
· The regiona organizations will represent ED staff, volunteers, investors, and local
government
Proposed Iowa Values Fund
A public/private partnership committing a $500 million investment in the next five years to:
1, Make Iowa Leader in Life Sciences - Invest in life sciences infrastmcturo labs and
equipment--to expfa~d research and development projects sucPi as protein extraction.
Create 100 new life sciences companies in Iowa in the next five years. [$50 million]
2. DevelopKeylndustryClusters-Promotelowa'sstrengthsandfocusdevelopmentinthree
targeted clusters: life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and information solutions. The
funds would be targeted for project incentives and promotions. [$250 million]
3. Promote Regional Economic Development - Encourage economic development leaders at
the local level to align efforts through a regional approach that would bring together local
economic development groups into singularly-focused efforts composed of at least three
counties, create regional economic development revolving funds, and invest in regional
development initiati__ves. [$100 million]
Non-govemmental entities making contributions to a regional economic development
revolving fund shall be granted a tax credit equal to 20 percent of the amount contributed.
Those contributions may be made at anytime up to five years following the date the regional
economic development revolving fund is established.
Regions identified as the most economically isolated (outside of a 40-mile radius of a
commercial center) areas of the state will be eligible for marketing assistance funding and will
be eligible to receive, on a declining scale, up to $750,000 over a five-year period.
Assistance will be provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis.
4.IncreaseRenewableEnergyProduction-SetagoalforlowatoproducelOOOmegawatts
of renewable energy per year by the year 2010. [$50 million]
5.Expand Internet Access - Invest in affordable high-speed Internet access statewide. [$50
million)
ECICOG
DATE: March 17, 2003
FROM: Marie DeVries, Solid Waste Planning Coordinator, ext. 26
Jennifer Ryan, Solid Waste Planner, ext. 31
Benton County. Staff continues to provide assistance to communities in Benton County
that are planning to revamp their residential recycling programs in response to changes
being implemented by the Benton County Board of Supervisors. Contact Jennifer for
additional information.
2003 Business Recycling Challenge (Linn County). Together with personnel at
Bluestem and the Iowa Waste Exchange, staff is planning the 2003 Linn County
Business Recycling Challenge, Noon-6 pm, April 2, KTOS Center, 3375 Armar Drive,
Marion. A DNR SWAP grant, written by staff on behalf of Bluestem, is providing partial
funding. A "how to" booklet will be published for other counties or planning areas that
want to host a similar event. Contact Jennifer or Marie for details.
Iowa City Landfill & Recycling Center HHM Program. Staff continues to assist with
household hazardous materials (HHM) education in Johnson County. Staff will assist
with an exhibit at the Iowa City Home Show March 28-30 and producing a video for use
by the local cable station. In addition to collecting household hazardous waste, thelowa
City Lar{~fili'and Recycling Center will also begin collecting computers and televi~'ons.
Contact Jennifer for additional information.
HHW Education in Benton, Iowa, & Tama Counties. Staff continues to administer
promotional programs concerning proper disposal of household hazardous materials in
these counties. Contact Jennifer for additional information.
Bluestem Solid Waste Agenc~y~Linn County. Staff is assisting with a pilot project
initiated by Bluestem in wl~ich the use of reuseable bags will be promoted at the Hy-Vee
Grocery Store on Wilson Ave. in Cedar Rapids the weekend of April 25-27. Contact
Marie for~dditional information. ' '=~
Iowa Recycling Association. The IRA is a non-profit organization that promotes waste
reduction and recycling across the state. Together with the I'owa Society of Solid Waste
Operators (ISOSWO), the iRA holds an annual conference. Next fall, the conference will
be held at Collins Plaza, Cedar Rapids, October 27-29. The Bluestem Solid Waste
Agency, City Carton Company, and others in the area involved with managing waste &
recyclables will be involved. Contact Marie for more information.
24
FY2004 Transportation Planning Work Program
Summary of Requested Projects
The following projects have been requested for the FY2004 JCCOG Transportation Planning Work Program by
members of the JCCOG Transportation Technical Advisory Committee, and other representatives from JCCOG
member agencies.
Requested By Project Description
1. Holdemess, Coralville Traffic safety fund grant application for Iowa 965/Heartland Drive/Holiday
Road intersection
2. Holderness, Coralville Assist with traffic studies, traffic signal and stop sign warrant studies and
Mitchel, North Liberty traffic counts as needed
3. Holdemess, Coralville Assist with review and development projects as needed
Mitchel, North Liberty
4. Holderness, Coralville System-wide traffic signal study for Coralville
5. Larson, Coralville Speed studies for First Avenue at 1-80 overpass and Russell Slade Blvd.
6. Atkins, Iowa City Conduct traffic studies at the Scott Blvd. intersections with First Ave.,
Rochester Ave., and Court St.
7. Fosse, Iowa City ICAAP grant application for traffic signal interconnection
8. Fowler, Iowa City Study the expansion of transit service to outlying areas of Iowa City
9. Fowler, Iowa City Update downtown transit shuttle on-board passenger survey
10. Fowler, iowa City Evaluate transit free-fare zone around downtown Iowa City
11. Franklin, Iowa City Evaluate traffic control at Scott Blvd. intersections* with U.S. Highway 6 and
American Legion Rd. -.
~" -- '12. Franklin, Iowa City Traffic signal warrant study at the inters~tion of First Ave. and Friendship
St.
13. Franklin, Iowa City Assist Iowa City Planning Dept. staff with evaluation of enhancements to
Burlington St. corridor in downtown Iowa City
14. Klingaman, Iowa City Continue to assist Northside Neighborhood in evaluation of on-street parking
issues
15. Klingaman, Iowa City Pedestrian crossing study of Lakeside Dr. at Grantwood Elementary School
16. Klingaman, Iowa City Investigate traffic ssues on Miller Ave. that may arise with redevelopment of
-" Rupped property '~
17. Dils, Tiffin Traffic counts as needed for U.S. Highway 6 study
18. Dils, Tiffin Identify funding possibilities for reconstruction of Ireland Ave. and Robeds
Ferry Rd. -
19. Dils, Tiffin Investigate pedestrian crossing issues along U.S. Highway 6 corridor
20. Dils, Tiffin Assist with trail planning in Tiffin
21. James, North Liberty Meet with North Liberty Parks and Recreation Commission and determine if
the North Liberty Trails Plan is in need of any updating
33
22. Mitchel, North Liberty Traffic study at proposed Iowa City community school district junior high and
elementary school site, including traffic signal warrant study
23. Mitchel, Nodh Liberty Complete Scales Bend Road/Highway 965 intersection traffic study
24. Mitchel, North Liberty Complete evaluation of secondary access from Fox Run Subdivision to Iowa
Highway 965
25. Dvorak, Johnson County Traffic study of Iowa Highway 1/540~h Street (Stringtown Road) intersection
26. Wilson, University Traffic study of Madison St. between Market St. and Iowa Ave.
27. Wilson, University Re-evaluate arterial street network in the vicinity of University east campus
28. Dahms, RTBC Continue investigating high visibility crosswalk options; especially for
Burlington St. and Park Rd.
29. Dahms, RTBC Continue promotion of area trail system
30. Yapp, JCCOG Coordinate with Hoover Nature Trail planning group on designating the
Hoover Nature Trail route through Johnson County
31. FHWA/FTA Continue to participate with Iowa DOT in investigation of Intelligent
Transportation Systems, including emergency evacuation planning for the
metropolitan area (federal emphasis area)
32. FHWA/FTA Continue to investigate environmental issues associated with artedal street
projects and development activities (federal emphasis area)
33. FHVVA/FTA Assess strategies for reaching minority and Iow-income groups through
public involvement efforts (federal environmental justice emphasis area)
34. FHWA/FTA Update long-range multi-modal transportation plan as needed_
35. Davidson, JCCOG Update Urbanized Area traffic count map with 2002 Iowa DOT counts
'" Carryover projects
1. Continue with planning and administration for Near Sonthside Transportation Center
2. Assist with implementation of 1-80 corridor aesthetic improvement plan
3. Comprehensive traffic signal system evaluation for Coralville
4. Continue with pilot project for evaluating high visibility crosswalk treatments
5. Bicycle and pedestrian resource document, a compilation of various bicycle and pedestrian resource
materials
6. Assist with trails planning in the West Coralville Land Use Plan area
7. Program FY05-06 STP funds once reauthorization is completed
· 8. Continue to develop a system of distance and directional signs for trail an~ on-street b ke routes
Ongoing/routinely occurring projects
Administration
1. Assist with triennial reviews as required
2. Assist with updates of Federal Transit Administration documents
3. Paratransit service contract renewals
4. Iowa City-University Heights transit contract renewal
5. Administrative tasks associated with Transportation Planning Work pregram
6. Preparation of materials for policy board and technical committee meetings
7. Development of the FY2004 Transpodation Planning Division budget and Transportation Planning Wonk
Program
8. Coordination with the East Central Iowa Council of Govemments, Iowa DOT, and U.S. DOT
9. Administer adopted citizen participation and public information process
10. Complete and administer state and federal transportation grant applications
11. Administration of TEA-21 grant programs and regulations
IP14
March 18, 2003
Coralville City Council & City Manager
1512 7th Street
Coralville, IA 52241
Dear City of Coralville:
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Rod Sullivan, and I live in Iowa
City. I know that you would prefer to hear from your own constituents but I am writing
you today on a regional issue that affects us all. I wanted to take a moment to share a few
thoughts and express a few c
oncems.
My reason for writing stems from the recent decision by the City of Coralville to
on th
purchase the trailer park 5 Street.
1 remember doing some in-home counseling there in the late '80s and arly 90s
e
it was a dump then, and I am sure it is worse now. The fact remains, however, that this
area represenls the last bit of affordable housing remaining in Coralville.
I am not against the City buying this area, cleaning it up, and developing it. I am,
however, very concerned about what will happen to the people that live there.
I think there is a very good chance that every single one of the residents of that trailer
park will be living in Iowa City or rural Johnson County within two years. I would like to
see the City of Coralville track this, (confidentially, of course) perhaps through Linda
Severson at JCCOG.
Assuming one sees these folks as a "problem," they will go from being Coralville's
problem to Iowa City's proble~n. I would also like to see what haman services dollars are
being spent right now on these folks, and then compare it to 2 years from now. (Again, it
would need to be voluntary and confidential.) I would be willing to bet that at least a few
of these folks will use the services of Shelter House at some point. I see other human
services usages going up as well. This happens when the stress of eviction is added to the
lives of poor folks.
Needless to say, these human services expenses will not only increase, but they will
be iransferred from Coralville to Iowa City. We've all seen it before. I see it as being
similar to the proposal to locate the new Alternative High School in Coralville. Several
folks (including Coralville Councilors!) said, "We don't want THOSE kids in OUR
community.'~ As though they weren't all our kids, and as though we aren't all one
community. We talk regional when it comes to economic development and how we might
benefit; we do not want to talk regional when it comes to providing services.
I think the people of Coralville are compassionate, and I think they would be willing
to reach out to these residents. You could frame it several ways- "Over 90% of you voted
to:spend a few dollars per month for a new aquatic center. For a quarter of that, we can
provide housing to x number of people." I would imagine that much of the population of
Coralville has no idea what the City does or does not do in the area of affordable housing.
This seems like an opportunity for the City of Coralville to do a few things:
1. lncrease funding to human services agencies;
2. Make a special one -time contribution to Shelter House;
3. Propose language that would require developers to set aside 5% of all new units for
low income residents (5% is pretty reasonable. One in twenty houses- that isn't even
one per block. If nothing else, that figure could get a discussion started that is not
currently taking place);
4. Make free or low cost office space available for human service agencies (not
antiseptic things like the United Way; down and dirty things like Free Med.)
5. Do something specifically for the folks being relocated.
6. Any combination of above.
I believe that this situation illustrates some significant regional issues. We really need
to do something. I think Coralville is afforded a great opportunity to do the right thing.
Thank you for hearing me out on this important topic. Feel free to contact me at 341 -
0060 (days) or 354-7199 (eves) if you would like to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
Rod Sullivan
2326 E. Court Street
Iowa City, IA 52245
Cc'. City of Iowa City; Linda Severson
IP15
March 25, 2003
Dear Iowa City Councils and Boards of Supervisors
I'm writing to ask for your help in supporting the Iowans called to duty during the war on
terrorism and the war in Iraq.
My name is Steve Warnstadt and I'm a State Senator from Sioux City. My senate district
has the second largest concentration of Guard and Reserve members in the state. I am also a Gulf
War veteran.
I'm sure you are aware of some of the stresses Iowa families experience when a loved
one is called to serve. After all, they are your constituents and often your employees.
Working with other legislators in Iowa and elsewhere, I have developed a ten- point
"Service Member Support Agenda." These commonsense measures include delayed filing of
taxes, helping Iowans called to service deal with leases, tuition rebates for students forced to
leave classes for the military, allowing service members to deduct military expenses, and the
elimination of state taxes on death benefits.
Please consider passing a resolution supporting this agenda at your next city council or
Board of Supervisors meeting. These low- cost and no- cost measures would make a real
difference for Iowa families in difficult times. You can find the details at
www.iowasenatedemocrats.org. If we can get a vote on these measures, I am confident that they
will pass.
Time is running out because the legislative session is scheduled to end in a month. If you
decide to pass a resolution, please send me a copy. I will use your support to convince the
Legislature's leadership to bring these bills to the floor.
Sincerely,
Senator Steve Wamstadt
steve.wamstadt~legis.state.ia.us
Senate: (515) 281-3371
Home: (712) 258-3705
Service Member Support Agenda
Senator Steve Wamstadt, 515-281-3371
steve.wamstadt~legis.state.ia.us (Updated: March 25, 2003)
90 day lease termination if activated
A service member who signs a lease and then receives reassignment or deployment orders for
a duty of 90 days or more can terminate the lease by written notice. (Senate File 323,
amended to Senate File 359)
Death gratnity exemption
Beneficiaries of a service member killed in action receive a $6,000 death gratuity, the first
$3,000 tax free. This would exempt total amount from state taxes. This was agreed to at
federal level last year but not implemented. (Senate File 246) (Ways and Means)
Delayed ~ing of taxes
Present law allows those deployed to combat zone an180-day extension on filing their state taxes.
This will would extend that delay to those activated for homeland security who may be deployed
to non-combat zone. (~enate File 264) (Ways and Means)
Deduction of all military expenses
Servicemembers are currently eligible to take military expenses as deduction if the total is
over 2% of their gross income. This bill would allow service members to deduct all of their
military expenses. (Senate File 284) (Ways and Means)
Iowa Military Relief Fund
This state tax check off would fund emergency financial grants to the families of Iowa
reservists and members of the Guard. (To be filed)
Counseling
The state would provide three counseling sessions or a $150 voucher for the families of
servicemembers who arc activated. (Senate File 294) (Stopped in Human Resources Committee
by legislative funnel, may be added as amendment.)
Exempt military student loan repayment from taxes
The military services sometimes send a servicemember to college and/or provide student loan
repayment. This idea would exempt the loan repayment from state taxes. (.Senate File 264_)
Fully fund National Guard Education Assistance Program
A projected shortfall may mean hundreds of Iowa National Guard members may not receive
promised educational benefits. (To be offered as amendment to education budget.)
No waiting period to regain insurance coverage
College students on family health insurance plans who are activated are usually dropped from
their family's insurance coverage, as they are under military plan. When they come off active
duty, their military insurance ends and they are sometimes ineligible or have delays in getting
back on the family plan. (Senate File 320) (Stopped in Commerce Committee by legislative
funnel, may be added as amendment.)
Total reimbursement of college tuition if activated
Would allow for 100% tuition reimbursement of college tuition for classes interrupted when a
student is activated. (To be offered as amendment to education budget.)
Sample resolution to support Iowans called to duty by
passing the Service Member Support Agenda
Whereas: More than 2,000 Iowans in the Iowa National Guard, the Reserve and on active duty
have been called to duty in Iraq and for Homeland Security;
Whereas: These Iowans are disrupting their lives and families to serve their country;
Whereas: The "Service Members Support Agenda" is a collection of common sense
suggestions developed in consultation with Iowa service members that the state of Iowa can do
to help ease the stresses they and their families face. These are no-cost and low-cost steps that
include delayed filing of taxes, tuition rebates for students forced to leave classes for the
military, allowing service members to deduct military expenses, and the elimination of state
taxes on death benefits;
Whereas: In a month the Iowa Legislature is scheduled to finish its session and none of these
messages have passed the Legislature;
Be it therefore enacted: That the (Local
government) urge the Iowa Legislature make supporting Iowans called to duty a top priority and
consider these measures on the floor of the Iowa House and Senate as soon as possible and take
action before the end of the session.
Please send word of your action to: Senator Steve Warnstadt, 515-281-3371,
steve.wamstadt ~legis.state.ia.us
MINUTES Preliminary ~
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2003
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM
CIVIC CENTER
Members Present: Ernie Lehman, Ross Wilburn, Dee Vanderhoef
Members Absent: None
City Council Members Present: In/in Pfab
Staff Present: Steve Nasby, Steve Atkins, Karin Franklin
Others Present: Terri Morrow
RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL
To recommend to Council the approval of the proposed TIF district of Pepperwood/South Gilbert
Street Area, as delineated on submitted map.
CALL TO ORDER
Ernie Lehman called meeting to order at 3:30 P.M.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 20, 2003
Motion: Vanderhoef moved to approve minutes as submitted. Wilburn seconded motion. All in
favor 3-0.
Discussion of Proposed TIF District Boundaries
(Pepperwood/South Gilbert Street Area)
Nasby reviewed what had transpired at the last Economic Development meeting. At the last
meeting they heard from Southgate Development about a proposal for a TIF district to help
them redevelop Pepperwood mall. The Council ED committee asked staff was to put together
recommendations for a TIF district. Included in the February 27, 2003, packet was a map for the
proposed district and an arial view from ICAD that further defined the area. The area is zoned
commercial intensive with one small parcel of industrial. Nasby noted that staff had looked at
this area for 3 things:
1. Redevelopment opportunities. There are several older buildings within this district that could
be remodeled or the whole site redeveloped. There are other business locations that may or
may not be obsolete, including the Nissan dealership that has recently moved.
2. Opportunity for new construction. There are a number of scattered sites within the district
area that can be developed. Also, there are some newer properties that have recently
become available with the extension of Southgate Avenue.
3. Public improvements. The Highway 6 corridor, the South Gilbert Street corridor and possibly
some trail improvements along the Iowa River.
Wilburn noted a future public improvement could be a park concept by the River similar to the
one previously done by Casey Cook.
Vanderhoef noted the trail along Gilbert Street should continue with the proposed street work.
Economic Development Committee Minutes
February 27, 2003
Page 2
Franklin expressed the need for Council to be aware, as the unknown in this is potential added
value to the area. This is very important as TIF funds for public improvements would only come
from the revenue that is potentially generated within this district.
Lehman noted that Southgate's proposal is very attractive and the majority of the improvements
are capital improvements. The access point to the mall is key and the cost of this improvement
has yet to be determined.
Franklin noted that in past discussion, the access point to Highway 6 was to be at Southgate's
expense. She said that a development agreement, as currently being discussed, is that the City
would not put money toward the access point but the TIF tax rebate would enable Southgate to
fund the project as outlined. This outline includes the access point, parking lot improvements,
facade improvements and interior tenant improvements.
Franklin also said that each future TIF project should be evaluated on economic condition of
area at the time, and any assistance would be commensurate.
Vanderhoef noted the in-fill lots are important and can be a big improvement for the city. The
development and building on these lots should be encouraged and a priority.
Lehman expressed the importance of time on this project because it needs to go to the City
Council for approval.
Motion: Wilburn moved that the proposed TIF district, as shown on the map that was received in
the packet, be placed on the agenda of earliest possible Council meeting. Vanderhoef seconded
the motion. All in favor 3-0.
Vanderhoef said that she also wants to look at the Sycamore\First Avenue TIF District to see if
there are any changes that need to be done in zoning. Franklin said that could be considered,
but that any rezoning for that area will not be included in the proposed amendment to the Urban
Renewal Plan as it is going to Council on March 11.
Meeting was adjourned at 3:48.
data on citynt/p~dlr~ nutes/ecodev/edc02-27-03.doc
MINUTES Preliminary
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2003 - 9:00A. M. IP17
LOBBY CONFERENCE CENTER
Members Present: Ernie Lehman, Dee Vanderhoef, Ross Wilburn
Members Absent: None
Council Members Present: Irvin Pfab
Staff Present: Steve Nasby
Others Present: Anthony & Diane Bryant, Sharon Dralle, Vanessa Miller
CALL TO ORDER
Ernie Lehman called the meeting to order at 9:03 AM.
PRESENTATION ON WORK KEYS - IOWA WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Vanderhoef introduced Sharon Dralle, Business Liaison with Iowa Workforce Development from the Cedar Rapids
office. Dralle was present to give a presentation and overview of the Work Keys program to the committee. The
Work Keys program was developed by ACT in Iowa City, and was found to be an exceptional tool for businesses
and educators to identify what skills are need in the work place and to insure that individuals get the training/skills
needed by partnering with training entities.
A power point handout was handed out with information on the program. Dralle began working with the Work
Keys program in 1995, as they were trying to find a tool to help businesses find a better match for workers. The
program consists of 3 components; profiling, assessment, and instructional support/training. The skill areas that
are evaluated are communication skills, listening, reading for information; problem solving skills involving applied
mathematics and applied technology; interpersonal skills of teamwork and observation. Dralle is a licensed
profiler for the program. Profiling is an in-depth job analysis. She meets with individuals that have a specific job
and then makes a task list and identifies what skills are required to perform the job. For each skill that they identify
in a job profile there is an assessment of that skill. There are ranges within each skill level. For example, in
reading there is a range of 3 to 7. The level 3 is an entry level and 7 is more complex.
If a business wants to use this program as an additional recruiting/screening tool, it will identify if the applicants
skills match the skills required to do the job. Other businesses have used Work Keys to determine training needs
for current employees by having the current employees assessed. Once the areas of need have been
determined, there is instructional support. Work keys has partnered with Kirkwood Community College in this
region to do customized training, provide self study books, and individualized computer software available through
ACT. Businesses have used the program to determine which individuals will do best in specific jobs and thus
become more productive and morale is improved. Work Keys has helped schools develop school curriculum by
helping establish goals, planning and development. Over 21area school districts in Iowa have used the Work
Keys program by assessing students and thus identifying and targeting training. The program meets EOC and
ADA requirements for compliance. The program is a fee-based service; fees are listed in the handout.
Lehman noted how the Work Keys program could be huge benefit to a business by being able to know ahead of
time if an employee has the correct skills for the job. If the potential employee does not have the required skills
they will identify this through the assessment and they can then take courses/training to better educate
themselves.
Vanderhoef asked if any profiling has been done on City/Government jobs. Lehman asked for clarification.
Vanderhoef noted that the city has many different jobs with different skill levels that are unique to City
employment. For example, the diversity of job skills specifically needed to be a City Planner verses the skills
needed to be a Firefighter. Dralle noted the Work Keys program is a National program and some of these jobs
have been profiled.
Lehman noted that the Work Keys program has a very impressive list of customers. The committee thanked Ms.
Dralle for coming and providing the information presented.
DISCUSSION OF REQUEST FOR CDBG ASSISTANCE - THE RACK BBC)
Economic Development Committee Minutes
March 13, 2003
Page 2
Wilburn excused himself from the meeting due to a conflict of interest as it relates to CDBG funding.
Nasby introduced Anthony and Diane Bryant, the applicants for CDBG funding for The Rack BBQ restaurant, a
new start up business.
Nasby distributed a hand out to committee members about the application. Both committee members and staff
noted there were significant problems with the original application. Nasby had spoken with Ms. Bryant yesterday
and they reviewed several of the problems. The most significant problem was concerning the cash flow numbers
that were calculated in their original business plan. On page 13 of the business plan, they had an estimate of high
sales average, number of sales and Iow number of sales. The original cash flow had used the high sales numbers
and the committee ~uestioned how the applicants came up with these numbers and the number of meals sold per
day or per week.
Ms. Bryant responded that the cash flow now reflects the Iow number estimate for the beginning and they have
worked to adjust the numbers to reflect seasonal highs and lows.
Lehman asked how the numbers were determined. Mr. Bryant responded that he had been in the restaurant
business 10 years and also in Iowa City for quite a while. They took into consideration what their cash flow could
be and what their competition is and to strive for 10 percent of that market. They are looking for help and
guidance with their plan and have approached a local bank and the local SBA. He noted that they have been
successful in other ventures and believe this one will also be successful.
Nasby noted the addition of a letter from US Bank. Lehman questioned the fact that the letter references The
Broom Closet, another business owned by the Bryants. Mr. Bryant explained that he was trying to borrow money
against the other business.
Lehman referenced pages 5 and 7, concerning the financial package that Bryant is trying to put together. Lehman
noted that the applicant is investing approximately $29,000 and is applying for a $25,000 Targeted Small
Business Loan (TSB). Bryant affirmed that the loan had been applied for and they still need to supply the revised
financials.
Vanderhoef asked if they are applying for a loan or grant. The Bryant's responded that they are looking for either
source of funding from the State and/or the City.
Lehman questioned if the only loan the business will have is from the State, if approved, and possibly a loan or
grant from the City. The applicant also provided a letter from a bank stating that they had been denied a loan.
Vanderhoef noted the 7% interest rate is most likely incorrect.
Lehman asked if the equipment listed is already purchased. The Bryant's responded that it has been purchased
and Nasby clarified that it could be used as collateral for a loan.
Lehman asked for clarification of total liabilities, on page 18, the personal financial statement. The balance on
properties is listed as $375,000, and clarified that this amount is against the real estate. The Suburban is a leased
vehicle thus not a liability. Lehman clarified the year and model of all vehicles listed. The truck is a 1993 Ford
equipment truck; the GMC is a 1995 van; the Ford truck is a 1988 4x4 pickup; the Volkswagen Golf is 1995. The
auto scrubbers are floor cleaning equipment that have a $7,000 remaining balance owed. Lehman questioned the
listed value of the vehicles and equipment and suggested that the items need to be listed with their current market
value, taking depreciation into account.
The committee agreed that it would take some time to review the new financial information. After reviewing this
information, they would like to meet with the Bryant's again.
ADJOURNMENT
Vanderhoef moved to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 10:05AM.
*NEXT MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2003 AT 9:00AM.*
da~a on ci~yn~/pcd/n~nutes/edc03-13-03.doc
MINUTES Preliminary
IOWA CITY BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2003- 5:00 P.M. IP18
CIVIC CENTER - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Paul, Dennis Keitel, Vince Maurer, Carol Alexander, Eric Gidal
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: John Adam, Sarah Holecek
OTHERS PRESENT: Steve Rorbach, Darrell Lamb, Mary Stewart, Darlene Clausen,
Robert Carlson
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Mike Paul called the meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL:
Gidal, Maurer, Paul, Keitel, Alexander present.
CONSIDERATION OF THE FEBRUARY 12, 2003 BOARD MINUTES:
Paul stated that the first motion passed should be "5-0", not "6-0". Gidal pointed out that his name was
misspelled in the minutes.
Motion: Maurer moved to approve the February 12, 2003 minutes as amended. Keitel seconded.
Motion carried 5-0.
SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS:
EXC03-00002. Public hearing regarding an application submitted by Mercy Hospital for a special
exception to allow off-street parking on a lot separate from the use served in the Office Commercial (CO-
1 ) Zone at 611-619 East Market Street.
Adam stated that Mercy Hospital is cater-corner from the location of the special exception. He said that
demand for staff parking has been expanding as Mercy expands its operations. He said the applicant
owns the property, which currently contains two houses.
Adam said that staff analysis identified two factors early on, one which argued in favor of the application,
and one which was not so positive. He said that the neighborhoods near Mercy have had issue in the
past with employee parking off-street, so this proposal would relieve some of this problem. On the other
hand, he said that surface parking is not encouraged in an urban neighborhood, since this neighborhood
contains office uses, single-family homes, multi-family apartment buildings and is located on Market
Street, which is an arterial and serves as an entryway into the city for employees and for people who
attend the University. He said that large parking areas tend to have negative effects on adjacent
properties. Adam said that these issues are more difficult to deal with in denser mixed-use neighborhoods
such as this one, as opposed to suburban areas where more land is available to buffer uses.
Adam stated that staff's objective in this case was to ameliorate some of these effects with additional
setbacks, landscaping, proper drainage and control of lighting. He said that the applicant has indicated a
desire to someday develop this property as the hospital expands. He said that, given the policy in the
Comprehensive Plan of preserving existing neighborhoods, staff generally promotes growth in a southerly
direction toward downtown rather than northward. He said that staff does not want to denigrate the
neighborhood, but its integrity is not as substantial as it perhaps is north of Bloomington Street.
Turning to the general standards for assessing special exceptions, Adam said that the value, use and
enjoyment may be affected by having a parking lot next door. He said that the house to the west, on the
corner of Market and Johnson, is an owner-occupied duplex, and the owner has spoken to him,
expressing concern about the appearance of the parking lot and having people cutting across her
driveway when going to and from the parking lot. He said that there is currently parking behind the
neighboring 12-plex, and the property owner says that people currently cut through her property because
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 2
there is no barrier. He said the owner would like to see a fence in place, continuing to the existing oak
tree, in addition to the required arborvitae hedge to prevent trespassing and view of the parking lot. Adam
said that arborvitae is required in this case unless soil conditions warrant a fence instead, and the
neighbor would like both a fence and arborvitae. He said the neighbor would also rather have the interior
of the parking lot blocked off in such a way that no parking spaces face into her yard until they are at or
past her garage.
Adam said that across the alley are a mix of single family and multi-family uses, with a daily influx of 50 or
more vehicles throughout the day will impact the peace and privacy of these backyards, and views from
these properties will be opened up to both a surface parking lot and clear through to Market Street. He
said that noise from Market Street will likely increase with the buildings and trees being out of the way,
which is why the City recommends a fairly solid hedge all around.
Adam said that the minimum light fixture height allowed in the CO-1 zone would be 25 feet if within 300
feet of a residential zone, as this property is. However, staff recommends that the height be 15 feet in this
case, to decrease the chance of light trespass and glare, with the use of fully downcast and shielded light
fixtures.
Adam said that the Code states that parking areas will be pitched and curbed and drained to prevent the
flow of excess water from the parking area onto streets and alleys that do nat have adequate drainage
facilities. He said that the City Engineer has approved the concept of having the drain come off at an
angle so it does not hop over the hump in the alley, draining instead towards Johnson Street. He said that
the City Engineer would have to sign off on any drainage pattern at the time the site plan is submitted.
Adam said that the applicant has not clearly demonstrated how the proposal is consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan. He said that surface parking lots close to downtown seem counter to the
preservation or reuse of existing urban form, but staff feels that some reduction of hospital staff parking
on neighborhood streets argues in favor of this lot. In addition, staff feels that the general pattern of
southward expansion toward the downtown is preferable to potential disruption of neighborhoods to the
north and to the east. He said the plan lays out the goal of protecting the character of existing
neighborhoods, which is why staff is recommending such things as increased setbacks, extra hedges and
arborvitae screening along the edges of the parking lot. He said that in the future, the City may want to
work with large employers such as Mercy to develop incentive plans for increasing and encouraging the
use of alternative modes of transportation, including public transpodation, rather than having a need for
more parking lots.
Adam stated that of the seven specific standards, only three are applicable to this case. He said that the
location plan has been provided, it shows the layout, and ownership has been confirmed. He said that the
parking lot is within 300 feet of Mercy Hospital, in the CO-I Zone, which is the same zone as Mercy. He
said that in assessing the application, the Board is to consider the desirability of the location of the
parking lot, any detrimental effects on adjacent property, the appearance of the streetscape as a
consequence of the off-street parking, and in the case of non-required parking, the need for additional off-
street parking. He said the appearance of the streetscape is a significant issue in this application since
two out of the row of structures facing Market on this block would be replaced by a 145-foot-wide gap. He
said that Iowa City's urban streetscapes are defined by their buildings. He stated that improvements that
could be made would be to increase the setback; the applicant is not required to have any setback
because they are not across from a residential zone. He said the planting of a hedge accented with
different species of ornamental trees and shrubs along the street edge could be an improvement, as well
as the retention of as much of the existing berm along the sidewalk as possible. Furthermore, Adam
stated that two existing midqot maples could be incorporated into the parking lot design.
In staff's opinion, Adam said that a one-way route around would be possible, as shown by diagram,
preserving the trees. The City Forester has recommended that the trees would need at least 10' of open
soil around each tree to insure any chance of survival.
In conclusion, Adam stated that the use of these lots for parking is technically compliant with the specific
standards for this type of exception, but somewhat weak on compliance with the general standards. He
said that the landscaping provisions staff is recommending are designed to help reduce the offsite
impacts. He said that the proposed parking lot would be an interim use that has the benefit of relieving
some of the on-street parking in the residential neighborhoods to the north and east.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 3
Adam stated that the plan that the Board was given just prior to tonight's meeting incorporates some of
the changes. He said that final approval of a plan would be subject to Housing ~nspection Services using
the guidance of the Board's recommendations.
Adam said that staff recommends that EXC03-00002, an application for a special exception to permit off-
street parking in a lot separate from the use served, be approved subject to the following provisions:
1. All parking spaces will be set back 15-20 feet from the Market Street right-of-way;
2. Within the setback area a continuous hedge of Arborvitae, plus Burning Bush or Amur Maple, or
other types of shrubs or hedge plants, will be planted; the Arborvitae will provide a backdrop
hedge no less than or greater than 4 feet in height at maturity and the other shrubs will provide
color and textural variety, the final plan is to be approved by the City Forester;
3. At least one of the mature maples roughly in the middle of the proposed parking lot will be
preserved with no less than a 10-foot radius of open soil around and will subsequently be
maintained in good health;
4. In any case, the parking lot will conform with the tree requirements of the Zoning Ordinance;
5. Storm water runoff will be directed to a public storm sewer unless the applicant can demonstrate
that direct discharge will not adversely impact other propedies abutting the alley, subject to the
approval of the City Engineer; and
6. Light fixtures would be mounted no higher than 15 feet and be fully shielded and downcast to
prevent glare and light trespass.
In response to a question from Maurer, Adam stated that the arbor vitae do not extend to the lot in the far
northwest corner because the applicant preferred to put in a fence. He said that the fence is four feet high
within 20 feet of the right-of-way because that is the height limitation for fences in the front setback. He
said that the fence can jump up to six feet after that.
In response to a question from Alexander, Adam said that the City has not made a specific assessment of
the impact of traffic on the alleyway, but has discussed this issue in joint staff. He said that traffic planning
staff do not feel this will become a big issue. He said that the existing parking lot next to the 12-plex has
20 or 30 spaces, and a lot of those will be replaced.
In response to a question from Maurer, Adam stated that the current plan shows 52 parking spaces.
Alexander asked Adam to expand on the Comprehensive Plan, with regard to the plan being preferable to
expansion northward. She felt there were a fair number of residential spaces towards downtown. Adam
said that this is a judgment call, and that neighborhood integrity is an important issue. He said that if there
is to be an expansion of Mercy Hospital, it would probably be preferable for them to expand southward
toward downtown. He said they do own this property, and the City is trusting that someday it will be
developed with buildings. He said that the issue of losing housing comes down to a judgment call, based
on how each person feels. He said that it seems the integrity of this neighborhood would not be as strong
as you would see north of Bloomington Street.
In response to a question from Keitel, Holecek stated that this area has been zoned CO-1 for at least nine
years.
Public Hearinq Opened
Steve Rorbach, 2364 Sussex Lane, with Rorbach Carlson Architects, stated they are working for Mercy
Hospital on this proposal. He said that Mercy has no problem with providing a hedge for the entirety of the
fenceline; they just felt the hedge would be blocked by the fence. He said the neighbor would not be able
to see the hedge.
Rorbach stated that the alley slopes to the center and is not humped, correcting a statement made earlier
by Adam. He said water would drain to the center of the alley, sloping to the west and out to the street.
Rorbach said that Mercy has a plan in place to assist staff with public transpodation, and they try to
encourage that. However, he said a large percentage of Mercy staff does not live in Iowa City, so they
have to drive in.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 4
In response to a question from Maurer, Rorbach stated that the parking ramp to the north does have the
possibility of going up. He said it is also probably going to be developed for health care facilities before it
ever turns into a larger parking ramp, but that block is planned for additional vertical parking at some
future time. He said the hospital does not have the need for that large of a growth of parking at this time
to increase that as a ramp. He said that there are about 113 spaces on each level of that ramp. Rorbach
said that Mercy is also expanding the Bloomington Street lot in the northeast corner, and maximizing
every square inch of parking they can on that block in lieu of going vertical in a ramp, but some parking
there will be displaced by a planned expansion of their cancer center.
In response to a question from Maurer, Rorbach said that parking in the St. Wenceslaus lot could possibly
be alleviated by this proposal.
In response to a question from Paul, Rorbach clarified that this lot will be for nursing and support staff, not
physicians. He said that this is part of some expansion that Mercy is also doing on the block north of the
hospital. He said the hospital has continued to grow and expand their cancer facilities on the north block,
and they need parking that is being displaced by that, as well as the growth of the hospital at that point.
In response to a question from Keitel, Darrell Lamb, 4561 Jenn Lane, Mercy Director of Engineering, said
that Mercy has not done a recent study regarding parking needs. He said that they have done some
parking studies and have always identified that they need more parking from a practical standpoint, but
it's different from a zoning standpoint. Lamb said that the largest shift at Mercy would probably contain
500 people. He said that part of the problem is they have parking for staff, parking for patients, others
accessing the hospital, parking for the private medical office building, and parking for volunteers and
physicians, so most of the parking is filled at all times.
Rorbach said that Mercy has about 827 spots right now, accommodating both the hospital and medical
office buildings and clinics on or around the site. He said the zoning ordinance addresses parking for
hospitals based on the number of beds, and allocates parking for the medical office buildings some on the
square footage of the facilities and other ways based on offices, exam rooms, etc. He said this lot is
needed for Mercy to conform with the zoning ordinance for all of their facilities on this campus. He
corrected himself to say that Mercy does conform now, but as the campus expands, the additional
parking will be needed. He said it is hard to put an exact number to the parking needed because the
zoning ordinance does not separate staff from public.
In response to a question from Alexander, Rorbach said that the parking lot would be needed primarily for
the day shift. He said the night shifts park more in the adjacent parking ramp to the west.
Mary Stewart, 603 E. Market Street, identified herself and referred to the letter she submitted to the City
on this proposal. She said she is concerned about the appearance of the street once the two big houses
are gone - it will look very different. She presented pictures for the Board to review to provide an idea of
what will be coming down and the space it will generate. She said that the City has been working on the
landscaping and so on, but she is still concerned about the great concrete mass that will take the place of
the two buildings and how it will make Market Street appear, and how it will affect her property.
Stewart thanked Mercy for agreeing to the fence and greenery, but stated she is concerned about parking
that would abut her driveway. She said that when she walks to her car, she would have cars facing her
driveway into her garage. She said that, if this proposal goes through, she would request that their
parking is moved back at least to the front of her garage to give her some privacy.
In response to a question from Paul, Stewart said that she understands that this parking lot would be
eventually replaced by a medical facility, and she does not have any particular thoughts about that at this
time. She said she was just reacting to the letter she received saying that a parking lot with 53 cars would
be going into the space next door. She said that she has had a little bit of the parking, but it has been
buffered by a building rather than cars coming up right against her lot line. She said she was happy that
they have agreed to save the tree, and she would like to have as much space as the tree - extending the
barrier to give her some protection. Stewart says she values Mercy as a neighbor, but she does not want
their parking right up against her building and driveway.
Darlene Clausen, 508 E. Bloomington, said she lives on the north side of Mercy Hospital. She said that
the first thought she had was that she didn't believe the CO-1 zone was meant to be parking. She said
that the block next to Mary's house is the last little segment to become parking. Right now, she said there
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 5
is parking on the full 600 block of Bloomington; there is a great big church on the corner of Bloomington
and there is parking behind it on Davenport. She said there is parking in the next block over, on Fairchild,
so this would be like four blocks of parking or large masses of cement. She said in the middle of her block
there is a parking lot, which is a large gaping hole in the middle of the block, and to the west of Mercy
next to their new emergency entrance, there is parking. She said that across the street from that is a
parking lot in the middle of the 400 block for Dr. Kammermeyer's office. She said this area is becoming
more and more cement and not small office buildings like anticipated when this was first zoned CO-1.
She said with more and more cement going in, they lose the pleasantness of the neighborhood. She said
privacy is really affected when you take buildings out in the middle of the block because it will open up the
view all the way to Dodge. She said buildings in the neighborhood afford privacy. Clausen said if the trees
stay, that will help.
Clausen said that she also wondered why Mercy does not expand the red brick parking ramp to the north.
She knows Mercy is growing and will need more parking, so they should expand that parking up now and
encourage staff to do van pooling for those outside the community. She said that when she saw the view
of the proposed lot, the only exit is the driveway going in and looping around. She wonders if it would be
possible to make a sidewalk going from the parking lot to Market Street so people would not be tempted
to cross the driveways.
Clausen said that she found it interesting to hear the parking would be mainly used for day shift. She said
she is glad that the lighting would be downcast, unlike the lighting next to emergency. However, she felt
that if this parking lot is only for day shift, it would not be necessary to have the lot lit all night long. She
said shutting the lights off at night would be a big help.
Gidal asked if Clausen could speak to the issue of relief of the potential northward expansion of Mercy,
and the issue of relief of on-street parking. Clausen said that they now have five hour parking meters
along Bloomington, prohibiting all-day workers. She said that the streets that would have parking stad at
Johnson and go on up to St. Wenceslaus, so she does not know if 53 spaces in a new lot would take
away a lot of the on-street parking in the immediate neighborhood. She said it would probably affect
parking further north, where commuters park.
Adam advised that Mary Stewart had been anticipating that the hedge would be on her side, so this issue
is unresolved. Rorbach said that the intent of the fence is that it is solid, presenting an opaque barrier, so
you would not be able to see cars through the fence. He said that if the landscaping was put on the other
side of the fence, that would create a problem of maintenance with the hedge being on her side. He said
they can try to design the fence to make it look as attractive as possible. He mentioned a fence along
Dodge Street that Ms. Stewart liked, and said they would be willing to offer that. He said they would be
willing to extend the hedge as far north as they can, but it won't be seen because it would be inside the
fence.
Rorbach said the parking lot does allow access to Market Street, with a walkway that is landscaped
containing stone retaining walls and steps directing people to Market Street from the parking lot. He said
Mercy is sensitive to people walking across neighboring property and are willing to extend the fence as
far as they can within the City requirements. He said they are trying to do as much as they can to beautify
the lot, wrapping the property with landscaping.
Rorbach said that at this time it is not economical for Mercy to go vertical on their parking ramp on the
north side of the street. He said they have future plans for a medical office building to go on that campus,
which will go right where the parking ramp is now. He said they will tear down the ramp and build another
one on that site in association with the new proposed building. He said it is not feasible for Mercy to go
vertical when in potentially five years they will tear it down and put a building there, and/or the hospital
expand from the east across the street into that area of the campus. He said the parking ramp would still
be on that lot, just more to the east side and in conjunction with the building, built up higher.
In response to a question from Maurer, Rorbach stated that ingress and egress through the alley was the
way Mercy wanted to do it because of security. He said it will be a gated lot, so it will be easier to control.
He said they plan to improve the alley by putting in this parking lot. He said it will be a staff lot, so they are
coming and leaving at regular times, not continuously throughout the day.
In response to a question from Alexander, Rorbach said that the alley is public, so the City is responsible
for snow removal.
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 6
Mary Stewart stated that she did not understand that the proposal included the greenery on the parking
lot side, and asked for clarification as to why that has to happen. Rorbach stated that the fence will be as
close to the lot line as possible, and Mercy would not want to come onto her property to maintain their
property. He said that the fence would be solid, so there will be no view of the parking spaces. Stewart
asked why the greenery could not be put in front of the fence, on her side of the property. Adam reiterated
that Mercy's objection was the issue of maintaining the hedge. Adam stated the hedge would be within a
five foot setback from the lot line. He said the fence they are proposing would be one foot from the lot
line, which would meet Code. Adam said the issue came down to whether she would rather see the fence
or the hedge, or does she feel it is reasonable to request both. Keitel stated that if she does not want to
maintain the hedge, she does not want a hedge. Paul advised that Mercy would have potential liability by
coming onto her property to maintain the hedge if it were on her side. Keitel stated that Ms. Stewart could
be required to maintain her side of the hedge, and he did not think she wants to do that. Stewart agreed.
Rorbach said that the fence would require less maintenance than a hedge. He said that want to make it
work for both parties. Stewart said she would like to have it nice, and so that she does not have to look at
cars. Rorbach suggested they work together to design a fence that is aesthetically pleasing.
Robert Carlson, 1122 Penkridge Drive, Rorbach-Carlson, stated that originally the design of the proposed
fence is the same as the design of the fence along the south side of Stewart's property so that she would
see fence that was the same on both sides of her yard. Stewart said that it was her understanding the six
foot fence can only come a certain length down the driveway. Adam advised it would have to be four feet
high at 20 feet back, and should stop short of the oak tree. Stewart said that if Mercy was willing to work
with her for a nice fence, that is the direction she will go. She reiterated that she would like to have the
same cut they give the tree, so that it is squared off at the garage rather than the middle. Adam advised
the Board that would mean a loss of two spaces.
In response to a question from Keitel, Adam said that hedges will need to be trimmed down to four feet.
He said it is a safety issue - they like to have the hedges at least four feet tall to block headlights, but
when they are within the setback they cannot be higher than four feet.
Gidal asked for a clarification on the reasons for the City's recommendation, stating that it was his
understanding those reasons had to do with relief of on-street parking and the encouragement of
southward expansion by Mercy. Adam said that the latter is not a direct reason for the City's
recommendation; if Mercy is landbanking this lot for future expansion it makes more sense to the City
than moving northward. The recommendation is based mainly on relief of on-street parking.
Paul stated that he understands Ms. Stewart has come to an agreement with Mercy's architects about the
fence, but he feels there is still a large question on the last topic of squaring the parking lot off and losing
two spaces. Rorbach stated that Mercy's intent is to maximize the parking they can get on the lot and
they would prefer not to lose the two spaces. He said they are trying to make the fence solid, and he
understands the concerns of concrete on the other side and potential noise of the car, but he is not sure
how different that is from the spaces just to the north, right around the corner from that tree. However, he
said if they have to lose those two spaces to get it accepted, they were willing, but felt they were using the
fence to screen the parking.
Public Hearinq Closed
Motion: Gidal moved that EXC03-00002, an application for a special exception to permit off-street
parking on a lot separate from the use, be approved subject to the following provisions:
1. All parking spaces will be set back 15-20 feet from the Market Street right-of-way;
2. Within the setback area a continuous hedge of Arborvitae, Burning Bush and Amur Maple,
or other types of shrubs or hedge plants, will be planted; the Arborvitae will form a
backdrop hedge no less than or greater than 4 feet in height at maturity and the other
shrubs will provide both color and textural variety, the final plan to be approved by the
City Forester;
3. At least one of the mature maples roughly in the middle of the proposed parking lot will be
preserved with no less than a 10-foot radius of open soil around it or a similar dimension
subject to the approval of the City Forester, and it will subsequently be maintained in good
health;
Iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 7
4. In any case, the parking lot will conform with the tree requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance;
5. Storm water runoff will be directed to a public storm sewer unless the applicant can
demonstrate that direct discharge will not adversely impact other properties abutting the
alley, subject to the approval of the City Engineer;
6. Light fixtures will be no higher than 15 feet and be fully shielded and downcast to prevent
glare and light trespass.
Paul asked if language needs to be inserted in the motion regarding the agreement on the fence between
the two parties. Holecek said they can put in a contingency to be satisfied prior to the special exception
being complied with. She said that right now the issue is how far the arborvitae hedge would go. Adam
said the issue comes down to the decorative nature of the fence. Paul asked if Holecek felt it was
important that they insert the language. Holecek reiterated that the Board can include the language. Upon
request, Holecek proposed the following language, which Gidal added to his motion:
7. The applicant shall agree with the neighboring property owner to the northwest, Mary
Stewart, on a decorative fence to be installed at or near the property line for screening
purposes up to 20 feet from the Market Street right-of-way, in compliance with the Code.
The motion was seconded by Maurer.
Findings of Fact
Keitel proposed that the motion be amended on point 3, from 10 feet to 9 feet. He said that they would not
be able to comply with a 10 foot radius. Adam stated that Gidal read the note he had written for himself,
and that he had added "10 feet or a similar dimension upon the approval of the City Forester". Keitel said
that the intent was that they lose two parking stalls, and that should be clarified.
Gidal said he would vote to deny. He said he is confused about the staff's recommendation, stating that
the specific standards have been technically reasonably met, but he has to find that the proposal is non-
compliant with the general standards. He said that in terms of the policy of the Comprehensive Plan
supporting the preservation of existing neighborhoods, the impacts on use and enjoyment of neighboring
properties, he feels it is very clear that tearing down two houses and replacing them with a parking lot is
going to diminish the value, use and enjoyment of adjoining properties. Furthermore, he said it seems
quite dear that for those houses across the alley, in terms of their views, their enjoyment and their use
will be diminished, so not simply adjacent east and west, but also to the south. He said that it seems quite
clear that in the understanding of the Comprehensive Plan, surface parking lots close to downtown are
counter to the preservation and re-use of existing urban form, and certainly this proposed use does not
preserve the character of existing neighborhoods, nor does it create a particularly innovative design for
that area. Finally, Gidal said that in terms of the seventh specific standard for 14-6N-1C, this specific
standard seems to pose a problem. He said the appearance of the streetscape is an issue.
Maurer stated he will vote in favor. He said he has a certain amount of sympathy for the Northside
Neighborhood, and for Mary Stewart. He said it does isolate her property, but he feels it creates a
situation wherein Mercy will want her property, so he does not feel it harms the valuation of her properly,
although it does narrow down the potential buyers. He said Mercy already owns this property, and he
feels it complies in every way he can see. He said even though he thought it better to add to the ramp to
the north, the plans they have for the lot in the future seem to make sense.
Keitel said he will vote in favor. He said his main concern he has is the increase in surface runoff on the
alley, and he wanted to amend point #5 to require the applicant to install a storm sewer. He said an
existing storm sewer is shown running south along Johnson Street, and he has been told by City
Engineering staff that is a substantial box culvert, so he thinks a storm sewer needs to be installed and
not directed to the alley.
Holecek stated that the motion has already been made and two members have already stated how they
would vote without that inclusion. Keitel said he would leave it up to the City Engineering staff, but it is his
feeling that it is not good to take half an acre of paved surface and dump it onto an alley. He said he feels
they have met the other points; it is appropriate for the zone that this property is located on, and he will
vote in favor.
iowa City Board of Adjustment Minutes
March 12, 2003
Page 8
Alexander said that although she is pleased to hear the compromise that is being extended, she will vote
to deny based simply on lack of compliance with the language of the general standards, as put fodh by
Gidal.
Paul said he has struggled with this, looking at it from a few different perspectives. He said his feeling is
that Mercy campus is going to develop, and they own the property, as well as other properties along that
street. He said that in order for that development to take place in an orderly fashion, it has to go south
towards downtown. He said that does not have anything to do with them fulfilling the standards, but he
feels they are trying to get parking off the street for which they should be commended. He said he likes
the idea that it will be an interim use, even though the time frame was not defined. With regard to the
value, use and enjoyment of neighboring properties, he feels enough has been done and Ms. Stewart's
property value should increase significantly in terms of Mercy's desirability for that property. He said that
use and enjoyment are a different story, but he feels the fence and screening and trees are a plus. He
said, unfortunately, in an older commercial area where there is not a lot of off-street parking even for the
residents, there will be some parking lots. He feels there would be a good enough job done with the
landscaping and maintenance of that lot to make this a viable project. He said that, while it is a gap in the
block, it is something that is not going to be permanent, and it will be screened so the use and enjoyment
factor is mitigated to some degree. He said he feels the applicant has met the specific standards and he
will vote in favor.
The motion passed on a vote of 3-2, Gidal and Alexander in the negative.
OTHER
Update on EXC01-00028, 417 Ferson Avenue, a reduction of the side setback. Holecek stated that nearly
a year ago the Board granted a special exception to Mr. Chamberlain at 417 Ferson Avenue contingent
on him obtaining: 1 ) a building permit and 2) a maintenance easement so the exterior wall of the garage
could be maintained in perpetuity without trespassing on the neighbor's property. She reported that as of
today, a signed agreement has been reached taking care of the maintenance issues, and resulting in a
survey done to quantify the exact encroachment that has been contemplated by the easement
agreement. Therefore, the encroachment is legitimized and the City will be able to issue a building permit
to legitimize the work that was done without the permit.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT INFORMATION
None.
ADJOURNMENT.
Keitel moved to adjourn, seconded by Gidal. The meeting adjourned at 6:13 PM.
Board Chairperson Board Secretary
Minutes submitted By Neana Saylor
data on c~tyntlpcdlminuteslboa03-12-03.doc
DRAFT
MINUTES
IOWA CITY HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
EMMA HARVAT HALL
410 E. Washington St.
February 25, 2003
MEMBERS PRESENT: Lisa Beckmann, Nick K[enske, Keri Neblett, David Shorr, Alice Mathis, Paul
Retish, Bob Peffer, Billie Townsend
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rick Spooner
STAFF MEMBERS: Heather Shank
1. CALL TO ORDER: Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF REGULAR MINUTES: Townsend pointed out that Beckmann was spelled incorrectly
in the minutes and Townsend's name was not included as a commissioner that was present when in
fact she was at the meeting. Under the heading of cultural diversity, 11 p.m. should be changed to 11
a.m. Townsend moved to accept the minutes as revised. Shorr seconded the motion. Motion:
Approved 8-0
3. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None
4. NEW BUSINESS:
a. Senate Study Bill 1057 prohibiting adoption and foster parenting by Gays &
Lesbians
1. Beckmann's Letter:
Beckmann advised the Commission of Bill 1057 that would prohibit adoption and foster
parenting by Gays and Lesbians. The full committee is required to vote on the bill by March 14.
Beckmann asked Commissioners if they would be in favor of her writing a letter in opposition to
the bill. Retish made a motion that Beckman write a letter expressing opposition to the bill.
Peffer seconded the motion. Motion: Motion carried 8-0. The bill is currently in a
subcommittee. Beckmann said it would be great if Commissioners contacted subcommittee
members to express their opposition. Beckmann spoke with people employed in the
Department of Human Services and they told her that they are really panicked. Beckmann
learned that DHS would not have enough alternative living arrangements for the children
currently residing in the homes of Gay and Lesbian foster parents if DHS was forced to remove
them. If this happened some of the older children could be moved into group homes. Other
children could possibly be sent back to their parents. Shank asked if Beckmann was going to
share this information with the newspapers? Beckmann stated that Dvorsky was aware of the
foster home shortage and that he is going to bring it up.
b. Letter to Commissions re: recommending legislature adopt sexual orientation as
protected category:
Beckmann reported that Shank sent the letter she drafted to Commissions in Ames and
Davenport. She reported that she would wait for feedback. When feedback is received,
Beckmann and Shank will review it, revise the letter if necessary, and send it back out for
signatures.
c. Johnson County Reads All One Book - Book selected is Bel Canto by Anne Patchett:
Shank stated that this book is about terrorists that take over a birthday party in South America.
It delves into the communication between terrorists and the hostages. The reader considers
both the hostages and terrorists as individuals and the motivation behind the actions of both.
Shank said the book is quite good. Beckmann asked whether John Paul Chaisson's choice of a
book by Victor Villasenior was considered. Shorr indicated that Chivy from the U of I Center for
Human Rights spoke with Chaisson. Shank stated that the librarian checked on the availability
of the Villasenior book that Chivy read and there was a shortage of books. Beckmann asked
about the Commission's role in this project. Shank stated that over the years the Commission
has provided a very small amount of money for pins advertising the book. She also mentioned
that she is a member of the book committee. Generally Shank indicated that Commission
members that have read the book can participate in the study groups that are scheduled
throughout the Fall to discuss the human rights issues in the selected book.
d. March 6, 2003 Woman & Warwith keynote speaker Peg Mullen author of Friendly Fire.
This is a program co-sponsored by the Commission. This is the third year the event has
taken place and it is part of International Women's Month.
Beckmann asked for volunteers to attend this presentation. Shank stated that it begins at 7:00
p.m. at the Iowa City Library and it will be live and videotaped for future broadcast. Shank
stated she would attend.
e. Building Blocks to Employment- Shank reported that this event will be March 4th'
Beckmann, Shorr, and Shank will attend. Retish indicated that two of his students have
volunteered. The supplies have been ordered, tables and chairs reserved, and Aero Rental is
prepared to deliver on the 4th. Shank said it was her hope that the signs on the table will be in
English, Spanish, and Arabic. Shank added that the volunteers are not expected to be experts
and the group is not guaranteeing that this event will result in jobs for all of the attendees. The
purpose is to provide assistance in the building blocks to employment. Shank suggested that
the volunteers arrive at Eastdale at 6:00. The event starts at 7:00 p.m.
5. OLD BUSINESS:
a. Memo re: cost of Human Rights Breakfast. Information sent by Phil Jones to
Commissioner Retish. Agenda item deferred from January meeting.
Beckmann exprained that all the monies received through ticket sales paid for the breakfast
meal and expenses. The issue the Commission raised was whether it was possible to lower the
cost of the breakfast from the current price of $15/person. Shank gives tickets to persons that
cannot otherwise afford to attend. The tickets are paid for through donations. Beckmann
indicated that the advertised cost of the breakfast that the Commission received was
$9.95/person. The IMU gave the Commission a discount and charged only $8.50/person. After
paying for the meal, less the cost of additional expenses, the Commission had approximately
$100 left over. Retish would prefer to change the menu to something simpler to lower costs.
Several months ago, Retish spoke with Phil Jones and he asked why the breakfast cost so
much? Retish thinks that the cost of the breakfast is too expensive for the average person. He
believes we should try and get away from a "big" breakfast and let the ceremony itself be the
main attraction. He believes that people are motivated to attend because of the award
ceremony and not the food. Beckmann agreed with Retish. However, Beckmann reported that
after reviewing the costs associated with the last breakfast the Commission would have to
choose a breakfast for the cost of $6.50/person in order to cover costs. She further added that
a meal consisting of coffee, tea, juice, pastries would cost $4.95/person, and the ticket sales
would not be enough to cover the additional costs of advertising, plaques, etc. Beckmann
provided the financial information from last year's breakfast. The total receipts amounted to
$2970.00. Shank paid the IMU $2,190.00, leaving a balance of $780.00 for expenses above
and beyond the breakfast. The expenses were approximately $700, giving the Commission a
surplus of roughly $80.00.
Retish wants to see new people attending the breakfast, instead of the same folks year after
year. He asked how the breakfast could be made more affordable? He believes the audience
should be more diverse and represent a broader spectrum of the community. He suggested
that more tickets be given to persons that cannot attend due to the price, keeping in mind the
cost involved. Beckmann asked about requesting a grant from the City Council to provide free
tickets. Shank said she did not believe this was going to be an option but she would mention
the suggestion to Steve Atkins and talk to her boss Dale Helling as well. Beckmann believes
the Commission is restricted in that there are few available places to hold the breakfast. Mathis
asked whether the breakfast had always been held at the IMU? Shank stated that prior to her
starting with the City, the breakfast was held at the Holiday Inn but it was rumored that the food
was not very good. Beckmann said that the Commission could rent a space and cater food from
someplace other than the IMU. Mathis informed Beckmann that the IMU would not allow
another business to bring in food. Klenske asked whether the Commission could look at
sponsorships from businesses. Shank stated that there have been several private sponsorships
through individual donations. However the Commission cannot solicit funds from businesses
due to an appearance of impropriety and/or conflict of interest. Retish would like to see a
foundation support the breakfast, i.e. the University of Iowa or the Iowa Athletic Department.
Beckmann asked if anyone had contacts at the Athletic Department? Retish requested that
Shank check into the possibilities of a foundation sponsorship/philanthropic organization.
b. Human Rights Breakfast keynote speaker-
Beckmann asked for suggestions on speakers for the breakfast. Retish suggested Kristi
Rudelius-Palmer. Palmer works for the Human Rights Center in Minnesota. Beckmann asked if
she charges a fee and Shank said she did. Short suggested Father Robert Drinan who is a
priest, and a former member of congress. Drinan serves on committees involved with human
rights issues. Shorr added that there would be transportation costs involved as he lives on the
East Coast, but maybe he would have a sliding scale on his honorarium. Shank said that the
Commission has historically used Ioca~ speakers but it can change to an outside speaker.
Mathis asked if the speakers receive an honorarium and whether an honorarium is budgeted?
Shank said the Commission has never paid for someone to speak at the breakfast but it paid
travel expenses once.
Beckmann stated that the Commission needs to choose a keynote speaker for the breakfast.
Mathis said that it sounded like the Commission wanted a free or very inexpensive keynote
speaker that may only require travel expenses. Neblett asked about Salome Raheim, Director
of the School of Social Work. Professor Raheim teaches cultural diversity classes and is a
great speaker. Beckmann would like to see a local person speak and at no cost to us. The
breakfast will be held this year on September 25. Retish would like to obtain a list of people in
the International Writer's Workshop since some of them have been involved in human rights
issues and they may be a valuable resource for a presentation. Shank indicated she would
contact Christopher Merrill. Beckmann stated that the Commission has to make a decision at
the next meeting. She asked Shank to put this issue on the agenda.
c. Commission's changing role-future focus/plans-
Beckmann stated that the Commission learned at the February 11th meeting that if the
Commission team's probable cause decision differed from the attorneys' decision that is based
on the law the attorneys would not be able to take the case forward. Beckmann asked
Commission members to indicate what they believed the role of the Commission to be? Shank
stated that even though other Commissions in Iowa are not involved in the process at the
probable cause stage, they are involved in other areas just as important. Mathis admitted that
she has only read one case but she listened to Helling talk about the history of the Commission
said decided there is still some validity to the original intent of adding the voice of the "lay
person" to the process. She does not support a revision in the Ordinance that would change the
Commissioner's participation in the human rights process to the public hearing stage. According
to the current Ordinance the Commission makes the ultimate decision as to whether probable
cause exists. Beckmann does not feel she is qualified to challenge an attorney on the law.
Retish believes the human rights process is a learning process. He would like to see the
Commission educate themselves by continuing to read cases. He would also like the staff in
the Human Rights office and Eleanor Dilkes and Sue Dulek to listen to Commissioner concerns
about what it sees as recurring issues in the cases. Retish suggested starting what he referred
to as listening posts around the city. This would require two Commission members go to the
Neighborhood Centers every third month and talk in general terms about concerns raised in the
cases the Commission reads, i.e., disparate treatment, cruelty, etc. He added that reading the
summaries will give the Commission an idea as to how a percentage of people in the
community feel they have been treated; "it doesn't mean they are right or wrong but there is
some consistency in what we are reading." Beckmann stated that the teams could get together
before the Commission meetings and read over case summaries. The team can then discuss
the issues the cases have in common. This information can be used to develop educational
programs. For instance, if the summaries revolve around Hispanic issues the Commissioners
can go to the Neighborhood Centers and talk to people about the issues raised in the cases and
assess whether the audience has similar concerns.
Retish mentioned that he asked Dilkes the percentage of cases resulting in probable cause
determinations. Dilkes responded that the percentage of probable cause findings was very
small. Shank stated that many of the people who file complaints feel that they have been
discriminated against, when in actuality the treatment has been unfair or mean, but not illegal.
Retish stated that this is where workshops could educate the community regarding the unfair
and cruel, but not necessarily illegal, treatment of employees at the work place. Employers
could be educated as to the benefits of treating employees fairly.
Shorr said that it sounded like the law offers limited protection from discrimination. Retish
acknowledged that it had really surprised him. He did not envision that reading cases would be
one of his roles on the Commission. At the time he was appointed Retish thought there was
going to be more of an educational role. Shank said that over the years the Commission has
only rarely expressed a desire or put forth the effort to organize a public forum. She added that
while there has been a great deal of education of the public in the area of discrimination that
effort has not generally come from the Commission. Retish asked Beckmann whether a part of
the Commission meetings could be set aside to talk about the cases without divulging the
identities of the parties? During the meeting, Retish said, the Commissioners could express
their concerns and assess whether the cases had issues that engendered ideas for educational
programs. Beckmann stated that she would like a group of three Commissions to meet once a
month outside of the general meeting and make it their priority to plan educational programs.
She further added that while it is great to discuss ideas, the Commission needs to be proactive
and actually organize. Peffer asked why the whole Commission couldn't contribute in this
effort? Beckmann felt that would be less successful. In the past, the Commission has spent
time talking about ideas but then not following through. The three people could think of the
ideas and bring it to the whole Commission for the opinions of the others. Beckmann added,
however, that if the Commissioners wanted to do it that way it was fine with her. She reiterated,
however, that the Commission needed to make a commitment and make its presence known in
the community. Townsend added that she thought that after the entire Commission developed
ideas for the educational programs the committee of three people could organize the event.
Beckmann indicated that she would like Shank to add educational outreach to the agenda as a
permanent item as well as a list of program ideas. She also would like to have three or four
educational programs offered each year in addition to what the Commission already does.
Beckmann summarized the earlier discussion. She indicated that the Commission agreed that
the Ordinance should be revised to move the Commission's involvement in the human rights
process to the public hearing as opposed to the probable cause phase. Eleanor Dilkes and Sue
Dulek will make probable cause decisions. The Commission would continue to read cases but
do so before the monthly meetings. Also the Commission would make an effort to come up with
educational programming ideas and then form a subcommittee to handle all the details. Mathis
wanted it stated for the record that she believes the Commission should continue to read cases
and be involved in making probable cause decisions. Retish added that he thought the meeting
held on February 11th with Dilkes, Helling, Burnside and Shank was very productive because
everyone listened and shared concerns. Retish thought that this type of meeting should occur
every now and then.
REPORTS OF COMMISSIONERS:
Klenske no report
Neblett no report
Shorr no report
Retish no report
Peffer no report
Townsend no report
Mathis announced that this weekend is Sister Connection Conference at the University of Iowa.
Neblett discussed an article she had read in the Des Moines Register that talked about elected
leaders that are African-American and the article mentioned Ross Wilburn. The article stated
that he was the first African American elected to our city council.
Beckmann found out that Cincinnati, Ohio just recently included sexual orientation in their
human rights code.
6. STATUS OF CASES:
Shank reported that new cases are going down to legal and reminded Mathis that she had
cases to read.
7, ADJOURNMENT: Meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m.
IP20
MINUTES Preliminary
PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
CIVIC CENTER LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2003
3:30 PM.
Members Present: Barbara Camillo, Chuck Felling, James Hemsley, Betsy Klein, Terry Trueblood,
Emily Walsh
Members Absent: Rick Fosse
Staff Present: Marcia Klingaman, Karin Franklin
Call To Order
Chuck Felling called the meeting to order at 3:35 PM.
Public Discussion of any Item not on the Agenda
None.
Consideration of the Minutes of the February 6, 2003 Meetin,q
Barbara Camillo had a correction to the minutes. She had also volunteered to help with the Poetry on the
Busses committee.
MOTION: Trueblood moved to accept the minutes of February 6,2003 as submitted with the correction of
adding Camillo to the Poetry on Busses committee. Camillo seconded the motion. All in favor, motion
passed 6-0.
Discussion of the Public Art Lonq-Ran.qe Strateqic Plan
Karin Franklin summarized what had been discussed in the past noting a change in emphasis from the
downtown to neighborhoods as locations for public art. She asked what direction and emphasis the
committee wants to have for the future. Trueblood suggested that future plans could also be a part of a
capitol improvement plan. Franklin and Trueblood stressed that flexibility is the key and the committee
may need to reprioritize as different events come up.
Felling shared copies of the Cedar Falls, Iowa long- term strategic plan. He stated that the Cedar Falls
community plan seemed to follow this committees' goals and may be of help in planning.
Franklin noted that the Public Art budget had been reduced from its original allocation of $100,000/year to
$50,000/year.
Felling referenced the procedural rules. Franklin stated those were basic rules of operation. She
reminded committee members of the mission statement and objectives of PAAC and suggested that the
members of the committee think about the group's objectives and bring a list to the next meeting to fill in
an outline of strategies for the future and see if there is any commonality. This information can then be
passed along to the City Council for their approval.
Updates
Ties That Bind - Franklin noted that they have wanted to get the sculpture on the Pedestrian Mall, but this
has been delayed due to the Library construction. Gene Anderson's, "Waiting in the Wings", will be on
display for one year as a part of the Iowa Sculptures showcase. Both sculptures should be installed this
summer; hopefully dedication will be during the June Arts Festival.
Weber Statue - Franklin noted the statue is being done in conjunction with the Lions Club. The statue is
currently in the wax stage of casting. The installation will be by June of 2003 according to contract. There
is consideration for moving the installation and dedication to August for Irving Weber Day. Walsh asked
Public Art Advisory Committee
March 6, 2003
Page 2
location of statue. The statue will be located on the north side of Linn Street and Iowa Avenue. The Lion's
Club also wants to include a time capsule inside of the Weber Statue.
Court Street Transportation Center - The center has been renamed. Franklin reported that the old name
was the Near Southside Transportation Center. The complete funding for the project is uncertain but the
Public Art aspect for the center is moving ahead. The Center is located on Court and Dubuque Streets
and will include a bus terminal, taxi center, a parking ramp, bike parking and a daycare center. Franklin
showed an example of the fence that will be used with the play area of the daycare center. The fence will
be constructed of metal and built in panels with a support along the top and bottom.
Neighborhood Art Program - Marcia Klingaman has put together a pamphlet to distribute at the
neighborhood art meetings. This pamphlet explains the neighborhood art concept and provides
information concerning the project. The Longfellow Neighborhood had a meeting at the end of February
and the response was very favorable. An art concept was submitted from Jim Caulkins that gave an idea
of what a mural on the Longfellow School might look like. The mural was a profile of Longfellow
superimposed on the school building. Klingaman noted that Wetherby Neighborhood will be meeting next
week to discuss the program and the Northside Neighborhood will also be meeting in the future. Franklin
noted that the City Council will view the new Neighborhood Art Video and will be voting on the project
Tuesday, March 11,2003.
Poetry on the Buses - Klingaman reported that the name of the project has been changed to Poetry In
Public. The change was due to the fact that the poetry will be displayed in other areas such as downtown
kiosks, bus shelters, and the library, as well as buses. She also reported that Marvin Bell, poet laureate
for Iowa, had been very helpful in getting the project going. The plan for the project is to include work from
local poets and the screening committee will determine what work is chosen and placed. The project will
begin in April and will coincide with national poetry month. They hope to duplicate the project in the fall of
2003 and provide an open invitation for anyone to provide poetry and to include more work from local
schools. Trueblood questioned how the works will be presented, and will it be weather proof. Klingaman
noted the most cost-effective way to present the poetry is to print on thin paper and then to laminate. The
poems will be an eight line maximum and the finished posters will be 11" X 28". The entire committee
had very positive comments on the program and for everyone participating.
Committee Time/Other Business
Klingaman handed out an example of the Community Initiated Public Art Application Procedure and
Form.
Adiournment
MOTION: Trueblood moved to adjourn the meeting, Camillo seconded the motion. ALI in favor, motion
passed 6-0. Meeting adjourned at 4:32 PM.
data on cityn~pcd/minute$/03-06-03.doc