HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-03-02 Info PacketCity Council Information Packet
March 2, 2023
IP1.Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
IP2.Work Session Agenda
IP3.Memo from Communications Coordinator and Outreach & Engagement
Specialist: Neighborhood PIN Grants
IP4.Pending City Council Work Session Topics
IP5.Memo from Deputy City Manager: Request for Statements of Interest for
Inclusive Economic Development Support for Underestimated Businesses and
Entrepreneurs
IP6.Memo from Budget Management Analyst: Quarterly Financial Summary for
Period Ending December 31, 2022
IP7.Letter from Mediacom: Rate Adjustment
IP8.Civil Service Examination: Electronics Technician - Traffic Engineering
IP9.Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker II - East Side Recycling Center
IP10.Civil Service Examination: Parking Enforcement Attendant
IP11.Airport Commission: February 9
IP12.Human Rights Commission: February 28
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
March 7 Work Session
Miscellaneous
Draft Minutes
March 2, 2023 City of Iowa City
Attachments:Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
Item Number: IP1.
March 2, 2023
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
Subject to change
March 2, 2023
Date Time Meeting Location
Tuesday, March 7, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, March 21, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, April 4, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Monday, April 17, 2023 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting TBD
Hosted by City of University Heights
Tuesday, April 18, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, May 2, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, May 16, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, June 6, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, June 20, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, July 11, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Monday, July 17, 2023 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting TBD
Hosted by Johnson County
Tuesday, August 1, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, August 15, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, September 5, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, September 19, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, October 3, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Monday, October 16, 2023 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting TBD
Hosted by Iowa City Community Sch Dist
Tuesday, October 17, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Monday, November 6, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, November 21, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Tuesday, December 12, 2023 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E. Washington Street
Attachments:Work Session Agenda
Item Number: IP2.
March 2, 2023
Work Session Agenda
Iowa City
City Council - Work Session
Agenda
Work Session
March 7, 2023 - 4:00 PM
1.Johnson County childcare wage supplement program presentation (strategic plan action:
Enhance Access to affordable childcare for all populations through innovative
partnerships with higher education, non-profits and the business community)
2.Strategic Plan Action: Revamp the neighborhood PIN grant program and evaluate
discretionary funding for district/neighborhood grassroots projects
3.Clarification of Agenda Items
4.Information Packet Discussion [February 23, March 2]
5.University of Iowa Student Government (USG) Updates
6.Council updates on assigned boards, commissions, and committees
Subject to change as finalized by the City Clerk. For a final official copy, contact the
City Clerk's Office 356-5041
If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this
program/event, please contact Kellie Fruehling at 319-356-5041, kellie-
fruehling@iowa-city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient
time to meet your access needs.
Emma J. Harvat Hall
410 E. Washington Street
www.icgov.org
City of Iowa City Land Acknowledgment can be found at:
icgov.org/landacknowledgement
Meeting Rules can be found at: icgov.org/meetingrules
You can watch the meeting on cable channel 4 (118.2 QAM) in Iowa City, University Heights
and Coralville, or you can watch it online at any of the following websites:
https://citychannel4.com/live
https://www.youtube.com/user/citychannel4/live
https://facebook.com/CityofIowaCity
The following items need Council direction:
1. (3/2) IP5 Memo from Deputy City Manager: Request for Statements of Interest for
Inclusive Economic Development Support for Underestimated Businesses and
Entrepreneurs
1
Attachments:Memo from Communications Coordinator and Outreach & Engagement
Specialist: Neighborhood PIN Grants
Item Number: IP3.
March 2, 2023
Memo from Communications Coordinator and Outreach & Engagement Specialist:
Neighborhood PIN Grants
Date: February 21, 2023
To: City Council
From: Shannon McMahon, Communications Coordinator
Ayman Sharif, Outreach & Engagement Specialist
Re: Neighborhood PIN Grants
Introduction
The “Neighborhoods & Housing” section of the City Council’s FY23 – FY28 Strategic Plan
includes the following action item: Revamp the Program for Improving Neighborhoods
PIN grant program and evaluate discretionary funding for district/neighborhood
grassroots projects. The Communications Office reevaluated the existing PIN grant
program and is recommending changes which align the grant program with the impact
areas and values outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan and more equitably meets the needs
of neighborhoods, in all their forms.
The City launched the Neighborhood PIN Grant Program in the mid-1990s. Historically,
the neighborhood PIN grant program has supported a wide array of projects from
neighborhood newsletters to volunteer clean-up events and social gatherings. However,
the program has not always been clearly tied to the strategic priorities of the City and has
been awarded to many of the same projects and neighborhoods year-after-year. As the
City’s demographics and priorities have changed, additional grant opportunities have
been established at the City. The proposed changes to the program will help to identify
these opportunities, including discretionary funding mechanisms, that could provide
additional support for eligible projects. These changes to the PIN Grant program address
funding gaps by clarifying the program goals and eligible uses, expanding the definition
of who can access the funds, and promoting a more collaborative approach.
The recommended changes have been informed by the City’s Outreach & Engagement
Specialist’s recent work to revitalize the Neighborhood Association network. Staff have
been actively working to build relationships and momentum with those already involved
in the association network, as well as activating new engagement in our most
underserved and disconnected neighborhoods. For example, the Outreach &
Engagement Specialist has recently worked with a predominantly low-income
neighborhood to pilot and help to build an organized and atypical neighborhood
association unique to their needs. This work is accomplished by leveraging partnerships
February 27, 2023
Page 2
with active associations, local agencies, educational institutions, and private partners, to
build meaningful grassroots connections by holding events and coordinating meetings
where our residents live. Establishing strong relationships at the neighborhood level will
provide us an opportunity to learn about community needs and connect people to the
important resources that are available throughout Iowa City. The revised PIN grant
program will serve as a key tool in providing opportunity by incentivizing the volunteer
efforts and engagement of our residents and empowering them to take an active role in
their community.
Recommendation
Staff recommend the following changes to the PIN Grant program:
Budget
The proposed Fiscal Year 2024 budget includes $25,000 for the PIN Grant Program,
which is a 5% increase (+$5,000) over the previous year. Staff recommend $20,000 be
allocated to the competitive PIN Grant Program and $5,000 set aside as discretionary
funding for the Communications Office to support new and developing neighborhood
associations throughout the City or for other unanticipated neighborhood uses that
advance the goals of the Strategic Plan. Funding awards under the PIN Grant program
will be capped at $3,000 per neighborhood association. More than one application per
Neighborhood Association can be awarded but may not exceed a total of $3,000 for a
neighborhood.
Applying for Funds
As under the current program, all Neighborhood Associations recognized by the City of
Iowa City will be eligible to apply for funding. Additionally, neighborhood groups that are
working with the Outreach & Engagement Specialist towards developing or piloting a
Neighborhood Association will also be eligible to apply for funding. To ensure the funding
accessed by a neighborhood is dedicated to a use that is broadly supported by the
residents who live there, the application process requests that applicants gather feedback
from the neighborhood on the proposed project and share those results. The Outreach &
Engagement Specialist will provide support to help applicants collect this input.
As part of the new process, applicants will be asked to include a City staff sponsor for
requests that impact a particular City department or division. For example, a public art
request would need to include the Public Art staff representative who would already have
been involved in discussions regarding the grant and is best positioned to help move it
forward; a Parks project would need to include the Parks Director or designee as staff
sponsor. The Outreach & Engagement Specialist will help associations establish the
appropriate staff connections and regular Neighborhood Association Council meetings
will be used to provide information of existing and emerging funding opportunities. This
level of staff coordination can help guide the applicant in achieving their goals, allowing
February 27, 2023
Page 3
us to consider alternative or additional funding options, avoid replication of similar
projects, and help navigate obstacles that may arise throughout the process. External
partnerships with other agencies and private businesses are also encouraged to provide
opportunities for growth and diversified funding mechanisms for projects requiring
sustainable support.
Program Priorities & Eligible Projects
Funding applications will be required to align with a Value and/or Impact Area of the
Strategic Plan and projects that specifically address Neighborhoods & Housing and
Safety & Well-Being will be encouraged. Some examples of potential PIN Grant projects
that foster social connection, increase community cohesiveness, and create safer and
more inviting public spaces include:
o Beautification and landscaping projects
o Public art installations
o Lighting improvements
o Playground and green space improvements
o One-time or start-up costs to hold events, fairs, festivals, or markets
o Public safety trainings
o Workshops
o Lending libraries – tools, bikes, books, etc.
PIN Grant funding is not for supporting new, ongoing programs with recurring operational
costs, but can cover one-time or start-up expenses if the project aligns with the Strategic
Plan and goals of the grant program.
Grant applications will be reviewed by a staff committee. The following criteria will be
prioritized during the evaluation process:
• Alignment with Strategic Plan Impact Areas and/or Values, including partnerships
& engagement, Climate Action, and Racial Equity, Social Justice & Human Rights.
• Eligible projects submitted by neighborhoods who have not previously or recently
been awarded PIN Grant funding
• Applications that include a partnership with an outside agency.
Additional Neighborhood Support
Many good project ideas may be beyond the scope of the PIN Grant program. For such
projects, the Outreach & Engagement Specialist and City staff can provide the following
services:
• Provide referrals for projects that exceed the scope of the PIN Grant program, but
align with another City or community partner funding opportunity, such as Climate
Action Grants, small business grant programs, etc.
February 27, 2023
Page 4
• Develop a repository of resources which address common neighborhood
organizing needs but should not necessitate a grant application. For example:
customizable newsletter, postcard or doorhanger template, survey assistance,
public meeting-in-a-box kit, simple neighborhood cleanup toolkit, etc.
The Communications Office seeks to be more proactively connected and communicative
with neighborhoods through the Outreach & Engagement Specialist by helping direct
neighborhoods to the most appropriate support: PIN Grant, another grant program,
discretionary funds, simple staff support, etc. Because each neighborhood will organize
differently and will have varying needs, the flexibility offered will enable the City to be
more efficient and responsive, while also encouraging neighborhoods to take ownership
of programs, communicate collaboratively, and engage on a grassroots level.
Grant Process
The grant will follow a 12-month cycle with awards required to be expended by June 30
of the following year to align with the City’s fiscal calendar and budget.
Following approval of the recommend changes, staff will announce the new grant
program and begin soliciting applications in April 2023, with funding awards announced
in May or June, and funding made available after July 1, 2023. Grant applicants will be
provided a pre-application meeting to discuss changes to the program and new
application requirements.
Conclusion
The recommended changes to the PIN Grant program and accompanying supports are
included below for reference. Staff believes these changes will support the City Council’s
Strategic Plan and advance the City’s efforts to provide more meaningful, efficient, and
equitable support for neighborhoods.
Identified Gap Recommended Change
The same neighborhoods receive the bulk of funding for the same projects year-after-year
• Eligibility is expanded to include developing or pilot neighborhood associations • More proactive outreach is conducted annually prior to the application period
The grant cycle prevents more timely opportunities or needs that arise during the term
• $5,000 is set-aside for discretionary use by the Communications Office and not subject to the grant criteria or timeline
Lack of coordination between departments results in missed opportunities or redundancy
• Collaboration is key as applicants are assigned a staff sponsor to help see their project through the process • Projects beyond the scope of the PIN Grant are referred to other opportunities PIN Grant requests are for minor uses that do not necessitate a formal grant application
• Staff will create a repository of resources for common neighborhood needs to help neighborhoods have ownership and agency in their own organizing efforts
February 27, 2023
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The parameters and purpose of the PIN Grant program are not clearly defined, resulting in low interest
• Program is refined to align with the Strategic Plan • A pre-application informational session is held and examples of projects are provided to applicants
Attachments:Pending City Council Work Session Topics
Item Number: IP4.
March 2, 2023
Pending City Council Work Session Topics
PENDING CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION TOPICS
February 23, 2023
March 21, 2023
• Quarterly American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA-SLRF) update
• Climate Action Division update
• Discussion on the utilization of ARPA-SLRF dollars for Climate Action related projects
FY23-24 Strategic Plan Action Item Topics Requiring Council Discussion:
• Explore legal steps to discourage or prevent bad faith and predatory property investors
• Initiate a Comprehensive Plan update and subsequent Zoning Code review to more broadly incorporate form-based
principles with emphasis on growth areas first and infill areas next, expanded missing middle housing allowances,
minimum density requirements, and streamlined approval processes (Suggested Joint Meeting with Planning and Zoning
Commission)
• Advance prioritized recommendations in the 2022 Affordable Housing Action Plan. Work with partners to undertake
significant-scale affordable housing efforts
• Fully evaluate the feasibility and funding sources needed for a zero-fare transit system
• Develop a vision statement for a singular regional transit system with metro Johnson County entities and obtain initial
commitments to study a regional system from each entity’s elected officials
• Explore opportunities to utilize the CRANDIC right-of-way for passenger rail, bus rapid transit, or pedestrian usage
• Evaluate with the State of Iowa reverting Dodge and Governor to 2-way streets
• Utilizing American Rescue Act Funds, execute on agreeable recommendations in the Inclusive Economic Development
Plan with a particular focus on actions that build long-term support and wealth-building opportunities for systemically
marginalized populations
• Work collaboratively with Johnson County and other stakeholders to launch a community violence intervention effort in
close cooperation with local law enforcement
• Leveraging American Rescue Plan Act funds, build capacity in local non-profits that will help ensure they are able to meet
future community demands
Other Topics:
• Quarterly American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA-SLRF) update
• Consider a strategic plan decision-making framework
• Lead private water service line replacement presentation
• Develop strategies to address equity gaps noted in the Parks Master Plan and plan for the equitable distribution of
destination parks within an easy and safe distance of all residents.
Note: Some items on the Pending List may require staff research and information gathering prior to scheduling.
Attachments:Memo from Deputy City Manager: Request for Statements of Interest for
Inclusive Economic Development Support for Underestimated Businesses
and Entrepreneurs
Item Number: IP5.
March 2, 2023
Memo from Deputy City Manager: Request for Statements of Interest for Inclusive Economic
Development Support for Underestimated Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Date: March 2, 2023
To: City Council
From: Redmond Jones II, Deputy City Manager
Re: Request for Statements of Interest for Inclusive Economic Development Support for
Underestimated Businesses and Entrepreneurs
In September 2021, City Council identified initial priorities and guiding principles to aid the
distribution of the $18.3 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Relief dollars
that was allocated to Iowa City by the federal government. The largest single priority by planned
expenditure level was to enhance business support structures for Iowa City-based Black,
Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
In addition, in September of 2022 the City Council received a presentation on the Johnson County.
Inclusive Economic Development Plan. Lastly, in December of 2022 the City Council adopted a
new Strategic Plan that summarizes the vision, strategies, and key action steps over the next five
years: including, values of Racial Equity, Social Justice & Human Rights, and Partnerships and
Engagement.
Consistent with this progression of investment prioritization and planning, Staff has now
developed the framework for a grant program to carry out the initiative to support Underestimated
Businesses and Entrepreneurs, consistent with the needs identified in the Johnson County
inclusive Economic Development Plan. As prescribed these grants are focused on supporting the
appropriate infrastructure needed to develop, cultivate, and grow the business ecosystem of
systematically marginalized populations. In 2021, the City anticipated having $4 million for this
purpose and staff recommends staying with that projection as we initiate the application process.
Due to the expected variety of proposals the City anticipates receiving, we expect to award $3
million toward proposal(s) that are focused on capital needs in nature and $1 million toward
programs, projects, and/or proposals aimed at business support services. The shift of funding
between these two categories can be subject to change based on information received through
the various stages of the proposed process.
In similar fashion to recently launched non-profit capital grant program, staff recommends
beginning this proposal process with a “Request for Statements of Interest”. This document would
intend to solicit interest aimed to execute the recommendations within the Johnson County
Inclusive Economic Development Plan in a manner that would allow a lower barrier for
applications and allow for refinement of project details as Statements of Interest are developed
into more detailed proposals.
The Request for Statement of Interest document details eligibility, grant requirements, and
submission requirements. Assuming City Council concurs with this document, it would be issued
March 2, 2023
Page 2
immediately with submittals due at 4:00 p.m. on May 1, 2023. From that point, a review committee
of staff and a City Councilor or two would develop initial recommendations for the full City Council
before working to create full proposals and grant agreements. If the Council would like to see
changes to the process or document itself, those will be made in conjunction with adjustments to
the submission deadline.
Request for Statements of Interest
Inclusive Economic Development Support for Underestimated Businesses and Entrepreneurs
Funding Made Possible Through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Local Relief Fund
Issued: MARCH DATE, 2023
Informational Open House (optional): MARCH DATE, 2023
Submittals Due: May 1, 2023 (4:00 p.m.)
Background and Purpose
On March 11, 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) into law. This legislation
provided the City of Iowa City with local relief funds aimed to aid the community in addressing the impacts of
the COVID-19 pandemic and helping build resilience throughout the community. In September 2021, the City
Council identified guiding principles to assist in the prioritization of the use of federal relief funds. Further, the
City Council identified initial priorities that encompassed emergent needs and strategic investments. One of the
strategic investment priorities was to invest in the business support structures for Iowa City-based Black,
Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
To better understand needs and ensure strategic use of the one-time federal relief dollars, the City supported
the development of a community-wide Inclusive Economic Development Plan that was coordinated by the Iowa
City Area Development Group (ICAD) and led by Astig Planning. After months of planning work involving input
from community presentations, focus groups, interviews, a survey, and a strategic doing process, Astig Planning
presented the Inclusive Economic Development Plan to the City Council on September 20, 2022.
In December 2022 the City of Iowa City adopted a new Strategic Plan that summarizes the vision, strategies, and
key action steps over the next five years. Two key guiding values of the Strategic Plan include Racial Equity,
Social Justice & Human Rights, along with Partnerships and Engagement. Further in the Economy Section of the
Strategic Plan strategies were identified to ‘ensure appropriate infrastructure is in place for future business
growth and development’ and ‘cultivate a strong entrepreneurial and small business ecosystem with a focus on
creating new pathways for success for systemically marginalized populations. Lastly, a specific action item in the
plan reads, ‘Utilizing American Rescue Act Funds, execute on agreeable recommendations in the Inclusive
Economic Development Plan with a particular focus on actions that build long-term support and wealth-building
opportunities for systemically marginalized populations.’
To advance this vision, the City Council decided to dedicate an estimated $4 million of American Rescue Plan
Act (ARPA) funds and announce this Request for Statement of Interest opportunity seeking project and program
concepts and demonstrating the capacity to manage, develop, partner, and implement said concepts. The City
is looking for Statements of Interest that aim to execute the recommendations within the Inclusive Economic
Development Plan in a manner that aligns with the values and goals of the adopted Strategic Plan.
Grant Program Overview
The City intends to award $4 million in grants and/or loans to one or more organizations that meet the goals of
the aforementioned plans. Consistent with the recommendations in the “Inclusive Economic Development
Plan”, the grant program anticipates making awards in two distinct categories:
1. Physical Space for multicultural business hubs, business collaboration spaces (shared retail, kitchens,
etc.), and youth entrepreneurial and community centers. It is anticipated that approximately $3 million
will be available for this category and eligible expenses include land acquisition, construction,
remodeling, furniture and equipment, technology, and associated soft costs.
2. Business Support Programs that include small business grants and/or financing programs, technical
assistance, community navigating services, and similar support networks. It is anticipated that
approximately $1 million will be available for this category with an emphasis on programs that are
designed to ensure long-term impact. This category aims to create programs that will in turn offer
support to individual businesses. At this time, individual businesses should not apply for specific loans,
grants or technical support. That opportunity will arise through the programs that are crated as a result
of programs created by this category of funding.
The City retains the right throughout this grant program to adjust funding amounts and the number of awards
based on information learned through the Statement of Interest process.
Grantees will be required to meet all applicable federal, state, and local requirements related to the proposed
project and funding sources. Successful grantees will demonstrate an ability to leverage City grant funds with
other funding sources to carry out the project. Projects are anticipated to be completed (with all city funds
being expended) by December 31, 2026.
The City encourages applications that will demonstrate partnerships between multiple organizations and
include multiple funding sources.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
• Both non-profit and for-profit organizations are eligible to submit a Statement of Interest.
• Iowa City-based organizations must be the lead applicant on any proposal presented to the City.
• Any physical space proposals must be located in Iowa City. Business support program proposals must
be located in Iowa City or demonstrate a primary focus on benefiting/serving Iowa City businesses and
residents.
• Proposing organizations must be able to demonstrate an organizational ability to manage significant
grant and/or loan funds. This does not preclude organizations that do have said experience from
applying. In such cases, the City will work collaboratively with successful organizations to provide
technical assistance for financial management.
At this time, interested parties need not worry about obtaining a State of Iowa Targeted Small Business
designation. However, as proposals, programs, and/or projects are developed the City may require such
designation and/or program requirements depending on the nature of the proposal. If needed, City staff will
work with applicants that may need assistance to gain their Targeted Small Business designation.
Statement of Interest Submission Requirements
To be considered for funding completed Statements of Interest must be emailed to redmond-jones@iowa-
city.org or delivered in person. Emailed applications must receive a confirmation email from City staff before
the application deadline to be considered for funding. If applying in person (City Hall, City Manager’s Office,
410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City), make arrangements with a staff representative to ensure receipt before
the deadline. Please call 319.356.5012 to make drop-off arrangements before arrival.
Submissions are due by 4:00 PM, May 1, 2023.
All Statements of Interest submittals must provide the following:
1. A cover letter identifying the lead applicant and, if any, co-applicants. Include the lead organization’s
name, address, and the address of the project site (if known). Provide contact information (name,
title, phone, and email) for the person leading the project. Please specify in the cover letter if the
application is for (1) physical space, (2) business support programs, or both.
2. A general description of the project including the purpose, benefits, and specific goals of the project.
Demonstrate the community benefit of the project using qualitative and quantitative measurements.
Specifically, note how the project will accomplish the goals outlined in the Inclusive Economic
Development Plan and City Council Strategic Plan
3. A description of how the project builds community resiliency following the COVID-19 pandemic by
building capacity to serve residents of the community.
4. An estimated project budget including how much in City assistance you are requesting. Identify both
the proposed sources and uses of funds for the total project. Identify if each funding source has
committed funds.
5. A preliminary timeline for the execution of the project. The City intends for all grant funds to be
expended by December 31, 2026. If this is not possible in the project schedule, please detail the
estimated draw-down timeframe.
6. A statement about the organization’s ability to perform appropriate grant and financial management,
including any related experience managing city, state, or federal grant funds. Provide 3 years of
financial statements of the lead organization, if available. Please indicate what type of technical
assistance may be needed to help prepare the organization for grant management responsibilities.
7. A description of all work related to the project that has been completed to date, if any, including any
secured funding, contracted professional services, property, land acquisition, grant or loan activity, etc.
8. Any other information, including letters of support, the submitting agency deems appropriate. As the
funding entity, no letters of support should be sought from City of Iowa City staff or elected officials.
Evaluation Process
All Statements of Interest that meet eligibility requirements will be evaluated by an internal team of City
officials, including representatives of City staff and the City Council. The team, at their discretion, may
interview one or more of the submitting agencies to gather more information or clarify project intent or detail.
The City team will recommend to the City Council that the City work directly with one or more of the
submitting agencies to develop a full proposal based on the preliminary funding recommendations for each
project.
Upon initial approval by the City Council, City staff will work with the selected applicant to develop
comprehensive proposals and corresponding grant agreements for final City Council consideration. It should
be noted that any physical space grants may also come with technical assistance funds for selected applicants
to help fully develop project plans for a proposal.
Resources
The FY 2023-2028 City Council Strategic Plan: www.icgov.org/strategicplan
Information on the City’s use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds including the guiding principles
document: www.icgov.org/arpa
September 2022 Presentation of the inclusive Economic Development Plan:
youtube.com/watch?v=OsXCbTvN1fA (1h:44m time-mark of the video) – Presentation Slide Deck Attached
Additional Questions
Questions regarding this Request for Information can be directed to Redmond Jones, Deputy City Manager, at
(319) 356-5012 or redmond-jones@iowa-city.org.
Attachments:Memo from Budget Management Analyst: Quarterly Financial Summary for
Period Ending December 31, 2022
Item Number: IP6.
March 2, 2023
Memo from Budget Management Analyst: Quarterly Financial Summary for Period Ending
December 31, 2022
Attachments:Letter from Mediacom: Rate Adjustment
Item Number: IP7.
March 2, 2023
Letter from Mediacom: Rate Adjustment
Attachments:Civil Service Examination: Electronics Technician - Traffic Engineering
Item Number: IP8.
March 2, 2023
Civil Service Examination: Electronics Technician - Traffic Engineering
Attachments:Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker II - East Side Recycling
Center
Item Number: IP9.
March 2, 2023
Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker II - East Side Recycling Center
Attachments:Civil Service Examination: Parking Enforcement Attendant
Item Number: IP10.
March 2, 2023
Civil Service Examination: Parking Enforcement Attendant
Attachments:Airport Commission: February 9
Item Number: IP11.
March 2, 2023
Airport Commission: February 9
MINUTES DRAFT
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
February 9, 2023 – 6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Warren Bishop, Judy Pfohl, Hellecktra Orozco (Via Zoom), Scott Clair
Members Absent: Chris Lawrence
Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Jennifer Schwickerath,
Others Present: Regenia Bailey, Matt Wolford
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None
DETERMINE QUORUM
A quorum was determined at 6:02 pm and Pfohl called the meeting to order.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Bishop moved to accept the minutes of January 19, 2023, seconded by Clair. Motion carried 4-0
(Lawrence Absent)
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION / ACTION
a. Hangar A Mural Project – Pfohl stated that Chris wasn’t able to be at the meeting,
but had sent an email which Tharp distributed. Pfohl stated that she had agreed
with what Chris had said. Clair stated that he believed any of the artists would give
the Commission a good product. Tharp noted that Scarbrough had submitted an
updated layout and he would show the Commission if they wished to see Tharp.
Tharp described the update showing the Commission the changes. Tharp also
noted that all the artists mentioned they’d be able to adapt to different design
changes or element changes as the Commission desired.
1. Consider a motion directing staff to negotiate a contract with a
selected artist – Clair moved to direct staff to negotiate a
contract with Jenna Brownlee, seconded by Orozco. Motion
Carried 4-0 (Lawrence Absent)
b. Airport Strategic Plan – Bailey noted that she had sent the Commission some
wording on goals and that they would work tonight through the wording and the “how
will get there” strategy. Bailey presented the revised vision statement and the
mission statement. Bailey then went through the draft goals listing the
“Communications/Collaboration, Funding, Infrastructure, and Community
Engagement” goals. Bailey noted that with each goal there would be success
indicators and that each would have steps to achieve those goals. Bailey also
Airport Commission
February 9, 2023
Page 2 of 5
discussed where the goals would link to the City’s strategic goals. Bailey also
mentioned that during the conversation she had with the City Manager’s office, the
limited (single) staff created a unique situation and expressed as part of the
sustainability that having a succession plan in place might be something the
Commission wanted to look into. Clair discussed more collaboration opportunities
with different departments and asked the group if having Commission members
attend some other boards or commission meetings or to set up meeting with those
staff members. Bailey shared some of the other success indicators from the last
plan but noted the Annual Report presentation. Bailey asked how the Commission
presented the annual report, Tharp responded that its something the Chair and
Secretary typically presented, and it was just part of the public comment period at
council meetings. Members continued to discuss goals and strategies and action
items for the strategic plan. Members also talked about continued use of the
community foundation fund that might help further develop the airport or endow
positions at the airport.
c. Airport Construction Projects:
i. FAA grant projects
1. Runway 25 Threshold Relocation – Tharp noted these were going
to be a similar message to what the Commission has been hearing
for the last couple of months. They’re waiting for spring to finish the
clean up work and complete the project to start closing out the grant
2. Runway 12/30 Displaced Threshold/Relocation – Tharp stated
they were working on the contract with Bolton and Menk and that it
needed to go through an independent fee review process for the
FAA and hoped to have it ready for the next meeting
3. Terminal Area Study – Tharp stated that they were finalizing the
spoke and submitting the contract to the FAA for review. He noted
this also might need to go through the fee review process.
4. Solar Power Project – Tharp stated he was finalizing an agreement
with CMT for FAA review and hoped to have it on the agenda for
next month
ii. Iowa DOT grant projects
1. FY22 Program
a. South T-hangar infrastructure – Tharp stated that this was
waiting for spring
2. FY23 Program –
a. Terminal Building Improvements – Tharp noted that Bolton
and Menk was putting some plan pages together for bidders
b. Wayfinding/Signage – Tharp stated that this was part of
the terminal building work
iii. Airport/Locally Funded Projects
1. Parking Lot Additions – Tharp stated they were just waiting for
spring to confirm the seeding took hold and could accept the project.
iv. Future Projects
d. Airport “Operations”
i. Budget
ii. Management
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February 9, 2023
Page 3 of 5
1. Annual Report – Tharp noted that he received some feedback on
the initial draft and asked Commission members if they had any
other suggestions to get those to him.
iii. Events
1. Autocross: April 16, June 11, Aug 27, Oct 1.
2. Pancake Breakfast August 27
3. Drive-In Movies – Tharp stated that he had a date for this but that
Summer of the arts hadn’t released the schedule publicly yet
4. Young Eagles – Tharp stated that he had made contact with the
EAA chapter and it was looking like June for this event
e. FBO / Flight Training Reports –
i. Jet Air – Wolford noted that the brush has been amazing for snow removal
this year. Wolford noted that charter flights have begun slowing down and
going back to more normal pre-pandemic numbers. Wolford noted the shop
activity has still been high. Wolford also stated that he had customers reach
out to him about building something in the future and that Tharp had had
conversations with them about ground leasing and given them other
information. Wolford also note that he and Tharp were hosting the
Community Leadership Program. Tharp stated that the program was run by
the Iowa Business Partnership and was meant to take business and
community leaders and expose those people to other aspects of the
community they might not otherwise get to experience. Wolford also noted
that Cirrus had just issued a major alert on engines in recently completed
aircraft and that they were grounding some of their company owned fleet.
Wolford stated that they were expecting further information and potentially a
new airworthiness directive from the FAA because of the engine issue.
f. Commission Members' Reports – None
g. Staff Report – None
Consider a motion to go into executive session under Section 21.5(1)(i) of the Iowa Code to
evaluate the professional competency of individuals whose appointment, hiring,
performance or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and
irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed
session.
h. Evaluation of Airport Manager
Pfohl moved to enter executive session, seconded by Bishop. Motion carried 4-0.
The Airport Commission entered executive session at 7:37pm.
Bishop moved to exit executive session, seconded by Clair. Motion carried 4-0.
The Airport Commission exited executive session at 7:44pm.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING
Members set the next meeting to be held on February 9th.
ADJOURN
Bishop moved to adjourn, seconded by Clair. Motion carried 4-0. Meeting was adjourned at
7:45pm.
Airport Commission
February 9, 2023
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______________________________________________ ___________________
CHAIRPERSON DATE
Airport Commission
February 9, 2023
Page 5 of 5
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2022-2023
NAME
TERM
EXP. 1/13/22 2/10/22 03/10/22 04/21/22 05/12/22 06/06/22 07/14/22 08/09/22 08/11/22 09/08/22 10/13/22 11/10/22 12/08/22 01/19/23 02/09/23 Warren
Bishop
06/30/26
X X X X X X X O/S X X X X X X X
Scott Clair 06/30/23 X X X X X X X X/S X X X O/E X X X
Christopher
Lawrence
06/30/25 X X X O/E X X X O/S X O/E X X X X O/E
Hellecktra
Orozco
06/30/24 X X X X X X X X/S X O/E X X X X X
Judy Pfohl 06/30/26 X X X X X X X X/S X X X X X X X
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
X/S = Present for subcommittee meeting
O/S = Absent, not a member of the subcommittee
Attachments:Human Rights Commission: February 28
Item Number: IP12.
March 2, 2023
Human Rights Commission: February 28
Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
February 28, 2023
Helling Conference Room
Commissioners present: Bijou Maliabo, Jahnavi Pandya, Roger Lusala, Ahmed Ismail, Doug Kollasch, Kelsey
Paul Shantz, Suyun Channon.
Commissioners absent: Sylvia Jons, Badri Kuku.
Staff present: Stefanie Bowers, Kevin Bailey.
Recommendation to City Council: Yes.
Meeting called to order: 5:33 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Kollasch read the Land Acknowledgement.
Public comment of items not on the agenda: None.
Approval of meeting minutes of January 24, 2023: Kollasch moved, and Maliabo seconded. Motion passed
7-0.
Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant: The subcommittee met on Thursday, February 23 to look over grant
submissions. Based on that review and having no changes or additions Paul Shantz moved and Kollash
seconded to recommend to City Council the following recipients for the grant for 2023. Motion passed 5-0.
(Maliabo and Ismail did not vote – recused due to conflict).
Introduction of the new Iowa City Police Outreach and Engagement Supervisor: Commissioners were
introduced to Sergeant Kevin Bailey. Bailey will plan on attending future commission meetings and provide
updates to the commission on community outreach and engagement. He has been with the Department
for over 20 years.
Committee Updates:
Commissioners went over each committee to assign new members. Per that conversation, the following
appointments were made.
Great Plains Action Society $6,000.00 6000
Wright House of Fashion $25,000.00 25000
Natural Talent Music $23,725.00 14500
Al-Iman Center of Iowa $15,000.00 7500
Center for Worker Justice of Eastern Iowa $13,528.80 7000
Houses Into Homes $15,000.00 10000
Community Crisis Services $24,000.00 14500
Neighborhood Center of Johnson County $15,500.00 15500
Breaking Bread –Kollasch, Kuku, Ismail.
Reciprocal Relationships – Lusala, Channon, Jons
Building Bridges – Maliabo, Paul Shantz, Pandya.
Each committee will plan to meet once between now and the March meeting date. Committees should be
working on new goals for the year along with implementation. Staff will send out a list of cultural
recognition, heritage months, and topics for each month
Announcements of commissioners: Lusala gave an update on the Black History Month Proclamation from
February 7. Paul Shantz will be out of town for the March meeting date and will, if possible, participate via
Zoom. Kollash will also plan on participating virtually in March too as he also has a work conflict. Maliabo
reminded Commissioners to attend the upcoming Night of 1000 Dinners being held on March 8 at 6 PM at
Mercer Aquatic Center.
Announcements of staff: None.
Adjourned: 6:10 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://citychannel4.com/video.html?series=Local%20Government.
Human Rights Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
1/24 2/28 3/28 4/25 5/23 6/27 7/25 8/22 9/26 10/24 11/28
Roger Lusala 2023 P P
Bijou Maliabo 2023 P P
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2023 P P
Jahnavi Pandya 2024 P P
Sylvia Jons 2024 P A
Doug Kollasch 2024 P P
Suyun Channon 2025 P P
Ahmed Ismail 2025 P P
Badri Kuku 2025 P A
KEY: P = Present
A = Absent
R = Resigned