HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-01-16 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 4.a.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
January 16, 2024
Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: December 7
Attachments: Ad Hoc Truth & Reconciliation Commission: December 7
December 7, 2023
Approved Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Minutes
Emma J. Harvat Hall, City Hall
Commissioners present: Chastity Dillard, Louis Tassinary, Chad Simmons, Clif Johnson,
Wangui Gathua.
Commissioners not present: Sikowis Nobiss, Eric Harris, Marie Krebs, Lauren Merritt.
Staff present: Redmond Jones, Stefanie Bowers.
Meeting called to order: 7:04 PM.
Reading of Land Acknowledgement: Tassinary read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of minutes from the November 9 & 16, 2023 meeting: Dillard moved, and
Tassinary seconded. The motion passed 5-0.
Next steps for Phase 2 and update on fact-finding by Kearns and West: The Commission
agreed that taking a deep dive into Phase 2 and fact-finding makes the most sense. The
categories for fact-finding are public safety/policing/law enforcement,
natninglmemorializationiremembrances, economic development, health, environmental justice,
education, and other. Commissioners briefly defined what is intended by economic development
—job training and assistance and other opportunities that would assist communities in being
successful. Amos Kiche suggested that the TRC develop a process for handling topics that are
not on the current list or items marked "other".
Discussion on the TRC model presented by Commissioner Simmons: Simmons would like to
see the TRC host an MLK Breakfast on January 15. Dillard suggested building upon existing
events being held in honor of MLK. The Commission opted to participate in the MLK Day of
Service, which is being held at Mercer Aquatic Center and sponsored by the City. They hope to
participate meaningfully, including a listening post for community members to meet with TRC
members. Additional outreach opportunities include hosting an event at ICOR Boxing in
February.
The Commission also noted that Phase 2 is supposed to be a model and that it would be
beneficial for them to have a detailed plan from the facilitators on what this plan would entail. It
was agreed that the facilitators would present a draft roadmap of Phase 2 for the Commission at
its January 4 meeting date. Facilitators pointed out that the resolution creating the Commission is
a good source for the roadmap.
Commissioners inquired into their current financial status. Staff provided an update: the
Commission can roll over funds not utilized in Phase 1 and add that to the $14,000 set aside for
Phase 2. Simmons moved that the TRC allocate $5000 for the upcoming MLK Day of Service,
Tassinary seconded the motion. The motion passed 4-0-1, with Gadma abstaining.
It was requested of staff to order the TRC a table cover, t -shirts, and to create a brochure.
Discussion on whether to hold a meeting on December 21: A quorum of members is available to
meet on the 21 st but would prefer to cancel the meeting. Tassinary motioned to cancel the
second December meeting date and Gathua seconded. The motion passed 5-0.
The meeting adjourned at 9:52 PM.
To view the recording or listen to the audio of this meeting, visit this link.
AD HOC TRUTH & RECONCILIATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2023
(Meeting Date)
NAME
TERM
EXP.
514
611
6115
7120
8117
917
9121
1015
10125
10126
11/9
11116
12/7
Dillard
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Gathua
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
A
P
P
P
P
A
A
P
Harris
12/31/24
P
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Johnson
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
Krebs
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
Merritt
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
A
Nobiss
12/31/24
P
A
P
P
P
P
A
P
A
A
A
P
A
Simmons
12/31/24
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Tassinary
12/31/24
_
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
KEY: P = Present
A =Absent
Item Number: 4.b.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
January 16, 2024
Parks & Recreation Commission: October 27
Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: October 27
r
.®yo- CITY OF IOWA CITY
MEMORANDUM
Date: 01/10/2024
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Staff Member of Parks and Recreation Commission
Re: Recommendation from Parks and Recreation Commission
At their December 13, 2023, meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission made the following
recommendations to the City Council:
• To have no increases to Parks and Recreation User Fees & Charges for FY25
Additional action (check one)
X No further action needed.
Board or Commission is requesting Council direction.
Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action.
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED
MINUTES OF DECEMBER 13, 2023
ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B
Members Present: Aaron Broege, Missie Forbes, Alex Hachtman, Rachel McPherson,
Connie Moore, Brian Morelli, Caleb Recker, Melissa Serenda, Alex
Stanton
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Tyler Baird, Brad Barker, Gabe Gotera, Josh
Worrell, Caylea Housh
Others Present: Mitzi Read, Justin Fishbaugh
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
Moved by Forbes, seconded by Serenda to recommend no increases to User Fees &
Charges for FY25. Motion Passed 8-0 (Morelli absent).
OTHER FORMAL ACTION:
Moved by Serenda, seconded by Broege, to approve the e_ Novembe_ r 9x2023, minutes.
Motion passed 7-0 (Forbes, Morelli absent).
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
INTRODUCTION OF NEW STAFF—Parks and Recreation Director Juli Seydell Johnson
Dir. Seydell Johnson introduces two members of staff that are moving into new positions in the
department.
Commissioner Forbes arrives at 5:02 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 2 of 7
Josh Worrell introduces himself as the new Facilities Manager, having formerly served as the
Assistant Superintendent of the Iowa City Parks department for 3 years and as the Assistant
Superintendent of the Coralville Parks department for 12 years. Worrell says that he supervises a
12 member staff who manages the facility needs and project of the Robert A. Lee Rec Center,
Mercer Park Aquatic Center & Scanlon Gym, the Civic Center, the Police Station, the Fire
Station, and the Senior Center.
Caylea Housh introduces herself as the new Aquatics Program Supervisor, previously working as
the Recreation Assistant for 2 years and as a Lifeguard for 3 years. Housh says that she is easing
into the position, having started only 2 days prior, and is looking forward to everything that is to
come.
USER FEES AND CHARGES -- Recreation Snoerintendent Brad Barker
Supt. Barker says that it is the annual time to review the fees and charges for various programs
and rental facilities that are under the department. Barker states that the prior 2 years for FY23
and Fiscal Year 24, the Commission had moved to approve an increase of 3-5% across the board.
Barker explains that typically the fees and charges would be increased every other year but that
the Commission had increased the prices 2 consecutive years due to the inflationary pressures
from the rising costs of goods and services. Barker says that with the inflationary pressures
stabilizing, it is the recommendation of staff to not increase the fees and charges for FY25.
Barker points out that in the agenda packet there is a proposed increase but reiterates that the
staff recommendation is to not increase the user fees and charges.
Moved by Forbes, seconded by Serenda to recommend no increases to User Fees &
Charp_es for FY25. Motion Passed 8-0 (Morelli absent).
Barker adds that staff continue to promote for the RecAssist program which takes 50% off most
fees and charges for residents with financial need.
Commissioner Recker asks regarding rental facilities, if staff plans for future years via projection
of 3-5 years out or if it is planned year -by -year. Dir. Seydell Johnson confirms that the charges
are planned out year -by -year.
BICYCLE MASTERPLAN & TRAILS UPDATE — MPOJCrXent Halston & Sarah Walz
Dir. Seydell Johnson introduces this item as a request from several of the Commissioners at past
meetings. Seydell Johnson introduces Sarah Walz and Kent Ralston from the Metropolitan
Planning Organization (MPO) to give an update on the Bicycle Master Plan and trails.
Sarah Walz and Kent Ralston explain that while both are members of MPO there are also
employees of City of Iowa City for transportation planning. Walz and Ralston present the
attached PowerPoint presentation.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 3 of 7
Commissioner Forbes asks about kind of education there is around the bike boxes. Walz states
that there is what is known as a "two-stage bike box" located by the CRWC on Burlington Street
which has a huge sign explaining the bike boxes. Walz says that in terms of education, MPO has
released videos and handouts on the subject. Walz explains that while the department does do
some education online but because they don't have direct programming, that they rely on groups
like Parks and Rec, or bicycle advocates such the Bike Library and Bike Iowa City to distribute
provided material. Ralston says that regarding vehicles, he believes it to be obvious on what a
driver is supposed to do as there are posted signs with explanations on where to stop and how to
position oneself. Ralston says regarding the bicycles, that it is easy to figure out how to proceed
when the vehicles are in the correct locations, as it creates a pathway for the bikes.
Commissioner McPherson says that she drives on Burlington most days and was not aware of the
bike box rules and agrees that while it is intuitive to work out, she still is worried about hitting a
biker. McPherson asks if there could be some official education from the DMV about the new
signage to ensure that drivers can recognize the bike boxes immediately. Walz responds that
Drivers Ed classes are starting to incorporate learning about bike facilities but that she does not
know to what extent. Walz explains that when there is an intersection with bike boxes, there is
no right -turning -on -red. Walz explains in regard to the intersection near the CRWC, when
someone is in the bike lane going east they would pass through during the green light and stop in
the bike box on the far east side of Madison, waiting for the light to tum green on Madison and
then cross. Walz adds that bicyclist that are very experienced tend not to use the bike boxes
because they're comfortable moving across lanes into the center turn lane on busy street, while a
less experience bicyclist would use the two-stage bike box. McPherson corrects herself on that
she had meant to refer to the bike box on the corner of Riverside & Burlington where it is a right -
turn -on -red which has hash markers. Walz explains that the hash marks indicate the mixing area
where cars can pass through and agrees that there can be more education done. Ralston adds that
that area is tricky but that he expects the bike lanes to be vastly improved once the bridge is
replaced.
Chairman Hachtman says that it is great to hear about the different languages that the bike rules
are shown in and the extent that they are distributed out to the community. Walz says that people
do take the rules to be distributed at the bike rodeos and the bike library which reach a diverse
spread of biking communities. Hachtman sys that it is great to see the numbers decreasing from
the collision map and asks if there is anything the commission can do to help minimize the
amount of collision happening in a particular area. Ralston explains that MPO has received a
$300,000 safe street and roads grant as part of the new partnership infrastructure bill which will
go towards hiring a consultant in the next 3-5 months to look at collision hotspots and give
recommendations on how to correct those.
Commissioner Morelli arrives at 5:29 p.m.
Commissioner McPherson asks regarding the bollard posts for protected bike lanes and asks
about the issue that stems from driveways. Walz explains that staff typically put protected bike
lanes on arterial streets with long black faces and a very limited number of driveways, and that
there is a lot of maintenance and complications where these bike lines are installed. McPherson
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 4 of 7
asks if there could be a tax incentive for driveway owners to be more amiable towards the bike
lanes. Walz responds that driveway is the only access to someone's property so that makes it
discouraged for a bike lane if there are many driveways. Walz adds that some people might ask
"Why aren't there protected bike lanes everywhere" but explains that there are very specific
conditions that need be present for a protected bike lane to be installed.
Commissioner Serenda asks what the standards are for new development and subdivisions for
including off-street trails or side paths to make sure that every new community is connected and
integrated into the trail system. Walz responds that these are usually identified in the district
plans and will typically follow flood areas and waterways (Rivers and Creeks) and utility
corridors where there's an easement that can't be developed. Walz provides an example off trails
on the Southside near the new Alexander Elementary School which follows a sewer line where
buildings can't be constructed. Walz explains that when connecting collator streets on the edge
of a community, they will be built with the width of a bike lane and side paths incorporated.
Walz closed saying that the trails are almost always identified in the district plans and that when
people corning with a subdivision plan, it might be something required to be built or might open
up the opportunity for the city to build it
Commissioner Broege says that he manages an apartment complex on Benton Street and says
that there has been a great response from residents regarding the new bike lanes, which make
people feel much safer when traveling. Broege thanks MPO before asking about Greenwood
Drive, a major communion point for students that live south of the university, what are the
sharrow markings indicate. Walz responds that Greenwood bikeway is a connection for
bicyclists to get from Benton to university without having to go through the large traffic. Ralston
explains that the shared lane arrows or sharrows are used when there can't be a true bike lane due
to the minimum buffer required.
Commissioner Stanton asks if there can be signage put up downtown as there are often cars
parked in the bike lanes on Clinton Street. Stanton clarifies that he understands that there can be
only so many signs put up before there are too many signs but asks if there can be signage to put
more fear into a driver for parking in the bike lanes. Walz says that the lanes are signed as bike
lanes and on some streets even marked as no -parking but explains that it is a constant challenge
for enforcement staff. Walz adds that those stopped in the bike lanes are often delivery drivers
who have gotten wise on how quick they need to be before getting a ticket. Walz confirms that it
is an issue, and that staff are looking for a solution.
Commissioner Morelli says that Clinton Street is so wide, especially between Washington and
Jefferson, which can invite those to go faster despite it being downtown with lots of pedestrian
traffic. Morelli asks if it would be better to not have a bike lane on Clinton and encourage
bicyclists to take up the whole lane as that would be desired pace for the road. Ralston responds
that bicyclists are not required to use the bike lanes and that if they so choose, can use the whole
lane, which he himself does.
Chairman Hachtman thanks Walz and Ralston for the work they do to make the community more
vibrant through the connect build from bikeways and bike lanes.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 5 of 7
REPORT ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF
Director of Parks & Recreation — Juli Sevdell Johnson
Dir. Seydell Johnson hands out a thank you gift to the commissions for their participation in the
City Park Pool Focus Groups. Seydell Johnson explains that the gifts were already given to the
other focus groups that took place during November.
Recreation Superintendent — Brad Barker
Registration: Supt. Barker says that registration for the Winter/Spring season opened for Iowa
City residents on Tuesday, Dec. 12 and for non-residents on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Barker
explains that this split registration started 1-2 years prior which has helped to ensure that Iowa
City residents are served first and foremost before the larger community.
Farmers' Market: Supt. Barker announces that the Holiday Farmer's Market is scheduled for
Saturday, Dec. 16 from 8 a.m. —1 p.m. Barker says that the vendor spots have been full for
several months and expects a good turnout of attendees. Barker explains that this will wrap up
the Farmers' Market for the year before taking registration for the following year starting at the
end of January.
Events: Supt. Barker says that the Winter Solstice Event, an annual event run by Program
Supervisor Joyce Carroll will be hosted on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 2-5 p.m. Barker announces that
the department's Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service will be hosted on Monday, Jan. 15 at the
Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Barker explains that the event is organized by Adaptive and
Outreach Program Supervisor Malory Smysor who has planned a lot of different activities
throughout the day.
Vice -Chairman Moore asks what time the program registration opens. Supt. Barker responds that
program enrollment always opens at 7 a.m. on registration day.
Commissioner Forbes asks if the Fanners' Market tokens can be used at the Holiday Market.
Supt. Barker confirms that the tokens can be used at the Holiday Market.
Brad
Parks & Forestry Superintendent — Tyler Baird
Empty Role: Supt. Baird says that there a few opens positions that are in the process of being
filled. Baird states that there will soon be interviews for Josh Worrell's former position of
Assistant Parks & Forestry Superintendent. Baird says that the applications are being accepted
for a entry-level Athletic Field Maintenance position and is expected to be chosen after the new
year.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 6 of 7
Projects: Supt. Baird discussed the status of several park projects. Baird says that both the
playgrounds for Happy Hollow Park and Kiwanis Park have been installed and that the restroom
& shelter at North Hickory Hill Park have been completed. Baird states the Pickleball & Tennis
Courts project at Mercer Park has started but that nothing has yet begun regarding the tennis
courts at City Park. Baird says that he expects the City Park courts to begin being torn out in the
upcoming spring before new courts are installed. Baird adds that next year College Green Park
and Shannon Drive Park will be looked at for new playgrounds. Dir. Seydell Johnson adds that
on Jan. 15 there will be an open house for gathering public input regarding the Skatepark at
Terrell Mill Park. Baird states that an ongoing project is the off-road single track bike course
being installed at Terrell Mill Park. Baird explains that he is excited for new skill features that
have been ordered and is hoping the track to be open by Memorial Day.
Commissioner Morelli asks if staff envision expanding the single-track trail to add an additional
trail. Supt. Baird responds that there is definite potential for it in the future, but that staff want to
figure out the maintenance regimen for the current track before more variation is added.
Commissioner Recker asks regarding the Pickleball & Tennis Court Project; how much work
will be completed by City staff as opposed to contracted out for the project. Supt. Baird explains
that that project will be all contracted work and that the contractors have been working on the
courts at Mercer Park for several months and should be completed quickly when resumed in the
spring.
CHAIRS REPORT:
Chairman Hachtman announces that this is Commissioner Serenda's last Parks and Recreation
Commission meeting. Hachtman says that is has been an honor to serve with Serenda and that he
has appreciated all comments and contributions that she has provided over the last four years to
make the community so great.
COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Stanton thanks Supt. Barker and Assistant Supt. Eidahl for their help for setting
up space for elections at their respective facilities.
ADJOURNMENT:
Chairman Hachtman calls the meeting to adjournment at 5:51 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
November 13, 2023
Page 7 of 7
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAMETERM
M
M
M
M
t+1
to
M
en
O
O
O
O
O
N
\
N
\\
N
N
\
N
\
N
\
N
\
N
\
N
N
\
N
\
N
\
EXPIRES
.-�
W
W
N
O
7
N
O�
M
C^
O\
M
Aaron
12/31124
*
*
*
*
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Broege
Missie
12131/25
X
O/E
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
X
O/E
X
Forbes
Alex
12/31/24
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hachtman
Rachel
12/31/26
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
McPherson
Connie
12/31/25
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
Moore
Brian
12/31/25
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
O/E
X
Morelli
Caleb
12/31/26
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
Recker
Melissa
12/31/23
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
Serenda
Alex
12/31/23
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
O/E
X
Stanton
KEY: X =Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
Item Number: 4.c.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
January 16, 2024
Parks & Recreation Commission: December 13
Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: December 13
IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED
MINUTES OF OCTOBER 27, 2023, WORK SESSION
MERCER PARK AQUATIC CENTER & SCANLON GYMNASIUM —
PROCTER & GAMBLE ROOM
Members Present: Aaron Broege, Missie Forbes, Alex Hachtman, Rachel McPherson,
Connie Moore, Caleb Recker, Melissa Serenda, Alex Stanton
Members Absent: Brian Morelli
Staff Present: None
Others Present: Beth Beasley, Sue Protheroe
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Hachtman called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
OTHER FORMAL, ACTION:
None
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
CITY PARK POOL PROJECT FOCUS GROUP —Ctt4 Park Pool Consulting Group;
BerrvDunn
Dannie Wilson, BerryDunn consultant, leads the focus group for the Parks and Recreation
Commission members. The notes transcribed from the focus group by the consultant team are
attached.
Chairman Hachtman calls the meeting to adjournment at 12:00 p.m.
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
October 27, 2023
Page 2 of 2
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
ATTENDANCE RECORD
NAME
M
o
en
0
M
0
N
N
N
N
N
~W
N
N
N
N
N
N
N
TERM
EXPIRES
�
�
*`'�
�
Aaron
12131124
*
*
*
*
*
X
NM
X
X
X
X
Broe e
Missie
12131/25
X
NM
X
O/E
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
X
Forbes
Alex
12131/24
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
Hachtman
Rachel
12131/26
*
*
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
McPherson
Connie
12131125
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
O/E
X
X
X
Moore
Brian
12131125
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
Morelli
Caleb
12131126
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
Recker
Melissa
12/31123
X
NM
X
X
LQ
X
X
NM
X
X
X
X
Serenda
Alex
12131123
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
X
X
X
Stanton
KEY: X =Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting
LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting
Williams Architects
Prepared By: AC
Iowa City
City Park Pool
Project No. 20023-040
Friday 10/27/2023 Focus Groups
Focus Group 10 — Parks and Recreation Commission —11AM
Leader: Dannie
Notes: AC
Attendees: See sign -in -sheet
Introductions
Questions
1. What design features would you like to see in a new pool?
Zero -entry so everyone can enter the pool.
Existing lift not safe.
Accessibility, inclusive, safe space. Everyone can learn to swim.
Beyond the obvious zero edge, existing wading pool is not desirable. Not separated
now and can run into deep water. Zero depth entry would help solve problem. Better
separation, such as gate, desirable. More for kids.
Shade over water, shade over pool deck. Existing does not get a lot of shade. Break
from direct sunlight.
Preserve character and trees. No giant waterslides. Integrate new pool in park.
2. What things preserve character?
Not adding a lot of bells and whistles. Keeping it simple.
Waterslides would compete with natural surroundings. Open space
Zero depth. Ability to offer higher level of swim lessons. Focus programming. More
pleasant entry. Need policies to limit adults. Current channel can be useful for lessons.
Can be separated vs. waterslide. Current channel can be shallow. Against climbing
wall. Support shade over pool deck critical and over water.
Risk mitigation. Shade over deck and shade over water. Colors more neutral
Channel requires more staff. Hate to have it not used because not enough staff.
Current channels can be costly but can be a nice aid for lessons.
Concern for risk and injury with waterslides and climbing wall.
3. What is the most important amenity?
Zero depth entry
Agree
Agree
Agree
Agree
Agree
Diving boards
Zero depth entry and diving second
Like 3M board iconic to City Park
Lap lanes. Maintain meters available.
50m vs. 25yd?
Like 50m.
Separate area for lap lanes? But would need more staff.
Not a pool for all if not both zero depth and 50m.
4. How many lap lanes?
25 yd 8 lanes. 50m luxury high competitive level. May also achieve zero depth
Technical question. Don't know.
50m less turns. Some facilities have both.
Look at data to influence decision.
Same.
Same. Is there an advantage to 8 lane 50m for competitive purposes? City host events
for high schools or professional events?
Are there current competitions? No. Is 25 yd satisfactory? Zero depth preferred over
50m.
Competitions would close pool
Juli not enough parking for competitions.
Endurance swimmers like 50m.
5. What would a great space for kids 5 years and younger?
Jet and bubblers.
Agree.
Go to other pools that have those features.
Giant waterslide would not fit. Simple splash pad. Rock wall bad idea.
Maintain focus on safety. Soft floor. Minimize trip and fall. Some shade.
6. Deep water other activities besides?
3M diving
Swim lesson retrieve objects in 12 feet deep.
Appropriate for deep water programming.
SCUBA, water polo, water aerobics?
Yes, water aerobics, other options. Not sure about SCUBA certification.
Why can't it be split off? It could be. Maybe separate dive well.
7. What other programs should happen with instruction?
Examples
Most of list is deep water activities. Flexible space. Flexible separation. Can do SCUBA
indoor.
Great opportunity to revitalize and capture new users to the pool. Once every 75 years.
New users.
Water walkers would bring new members.
Be able to rope off different sections and set off spaces for different group activities.
Water walking depth with other things 4 to 5 feet deep, deep water, lap swimming depth
doesn't matter, etc. Other things not on list in the future. Flexibility.
8. Is there anything that prevents people from using pool?
No zero depth.
Not accessible.
No accessible parking or entry. Getting there issue.
Locker room barrier to same. People like or don't like. Existing not popular.
Gross.
Transportation is an issue. Better fare free. Certain parts of community have barriers.
Some teens don't go because they want waterslides.
Parking issue.
Cost. Is it the same as other pools? Are there discounts for income levels?
9. Accessibility options?
Transfer system rare. How many people actually use lift? People are singled out. What
can be universal?
Slope entry highest independence. Make so they can enter the pool on their own.
Is the chair needed? Yes.
Need balance to use. Would like higher version. Sturdier.
Or zero entry.
Requirements discussed per code.
Don't see transfer system used at university?
Sloped entry.
Pool stairs deep water idea.
Hand holds helpful.
10. Bathhouse accessibility and features?
Entry accessibility.
Natural light. Warm and inviting.
Open at the entrance.
Flex space for changing for families or individuals?
Locker room not gender based? Private rooms discussion? Depends how it is laid out.
Adult size changing table essential.
Open area, light, all looks great.
Adult changing table in same room? Can close off for privacy. Can fold up and go up
and down.
Combine single user and adult changing table.
Individual rooms for quick change. Able to bypass locker rooms desirable. Maybe shrink
locker rooms.
Private showers with hard barriers not curtains.
Accessible entry. Closer to parking. Long sidewalk. Maybe expand size multipurpose,
etc. Maybe move building up.
All materials water resistant. CMU walls. Mold concerns.
Shade over pool deck essential.
11. Website for additional comments. City parkpoolpro iect aptowacity.orQ
12. Conclusion. Juli. Explanation of focus groups and open houses.
Item Number: 4.d.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
January 16, 2024
Senior Center Commission: October 19
Attachments: Senior Center Commission: October 19
Approved Minutes
October 19, 2023
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
October 19, 2023
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Members Present: Lee McKnight, Warren Paris, Jay Gilchrist, Nancy Ostrognai,
Angela McConville
Members Absent: Susan Mellecker, Tasha Lard
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, LaTasha DeLoach, Sarah Gardner
Others Present: None
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Gilchrist at 4:00 PM
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE SEPTEMBER 21 2023. MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the September 21, 2023. Motion carried
on a vote of 5/0. Gilchrist/McKnight
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
CLIMATE ACTION COORDINATOR PRESENTATION:
Sarah Gardner discussed several of the Climate Action office's initiatives and
programs including Iowa City's greenhouse gas audit, partnership with Americorp
for home energy audits, Spot the Hot, Energy Blitz, Solar initiatives on public and
private buildings, EV charging station grants focusing on apartment buildings, the
fare free pilot for buses, and the Climate Action newsletter. Gilchrist asked about
energy audits for the Senior Center. Gardner noted that as a historic building it
was one of the lowest ranking buildings in the City. Upcoming exterior projects
are anticipated to help with this. McKnight asked when the entire bus fleet will be
electric. Currently the City has 4 electric buses and soon due to grant funding will
increase to 8. The City is planning a new bus transit hub which will take some
years to complete, but it will be a zero carbon site and will allow for all buses to
be electric. Gilchrist asked about community solar. Gardner stated that it is not
Approved Minutes
October 19, 2023
currently allowable by the state and discussed ways to communicate the desire
for this type of solar.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
DeLoach noted the pre-bid for the exterior work occurred this week. The exterior
work has been split into two parts due to the bonding of the CIP funds. Masonry
work and tuckpointing will occur first. The second bid will be the buildings
windows.
The Senior Center purchased a balance machine and is partnering with the VNA
on working with members on using it to measure their balance.
There will be a new member lunch on November 8th. Commissioners were invited
to attend.
The Senior Center is starting a new volunteer program called Senior Center
Ambassadors. These volunteers will be greeters, give tours, and distribute
program guides.
The Senior Center has been given the go ahead to pilot evening and weekend
hours. There are currently two hourly positions being advertised. The extended
hours will potentially start in December.
DeLoach reported the music groups have grown significantly in recent months.
Additionally, the Queer Elders and Original Mature Groovers are continuing to
meet regularly. The Original Mature Groovers will be hosting a Black Iowans
Gala on February 3rd at the Senior Center. The inaugural Friends of the Senior
Center pickleball tournament held last month was successful.
Heather Shane was hired as the part time Development Specialist and started in
September.
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
Gilchrist asked where the funds for the exterior project are coming from.
DeLoach stated that the exterior funds are all public funds through bonds or
funds the City has set aside for these projects. It is possible that there will be
fundraising for interior projects down the road.
Ostrognai reported that a community member approached her about the
possibility of the Senior Center utilizing the City owned vacant lot across the
street from the Senior Center. DeLoach noted the City Council will ultimately
decide what happens with that property. Ostrognai asked if it would be helpful to
encourage community members to write to the City Council. DeLoach said that
would be an option and stated that Commissioners could also choose to come to
Approved Minutes
October 19. 2023
a consensus for a suggestion and submit a memo to City Council. As a staff
member DeLoach noted that she does not have an opinion on this, but her role is
to support the Commission in this type of matter. Ostrognai stated that the idea of
the lot remaining green space is appealing and would like the Commission to
consider this. McConville asked Ostrognai to do research into what the City
Council is currently thinking regarding that space and report back. Once
additional information is collected Commissioners can discuss and consider a
formal suggestion to City Council. Paris noted the City will be using that location
as construction staging for the Senior Centers exterior work and other downtown
construction projects in the short term.
McConville noted Commission terms will be up at the end of this year for
Ostrognai and Melleker. According to the by-laws they will make up the
Nomination Committee for the Commission executive committee. Voting for
these positions should be put on the December commission agenda.
Meeting Adjourned.
Approved Minutes
October 19, 2023
Senior Center Commission Attendance Record
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member
1/19/23
2/16/23
3/16/23
4/20/23
5/18/23
6/1523
7/20/23
8/17/23
9121/23
10/19/23
11/16/23
12/21123
Name
Term Expires
Jay
12/31/25
NM
NM
O/E
NM
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
NM
Gilchrist
Tasha
12/3124
NM
NM
X
NM
X
O
X
O
X
O
NM
Lard
Angela
12/3124
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
X
NM
McConville
Lee
12/3124
—
—
X
NM
O/E
X
X
X
X
X
NM
McKnight
Susan
12/3123
NM
NM
X
NM
X
X
X
O/E
X
O/E
NM
Mellecker
Nancy
12/3123
--
—
—
—
X
OEX
X
X
X
NM
Ostrognai
Warren
12/31/25
NM
NM
O
NM
X
X
X
X
X
X
NM
Paris
Key: X =Present O =Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member