HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-23 Info Packet � r
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CITY OF 10"IA CITY May 23, 2024
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
IP1. Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
Miscellaneous
IP2. Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I - Streets
IP3. Civil Service Examination: Purchasing Assistant
Draft Minutes
IP4. Airport Commission: May 9
IPS. Charter Review Commission: May 14
IP6. Climate Action Commission: May 6
IP7. Library Board of Trustees: April 25
IP8. Senior Center Commission: May 16
May 23, 2024 City of Iowa City
Item Number: IP1.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
Attachments: Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule
nil Subject to change
CITY OF IOWA CITY May 23,2024
Date Time Meeting Location
Tuesday,June 4,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,June 18,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Monday,July 15,2024 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting TBD
Hosted by the City of North Liberty
Tuesday,July 16,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,August 6,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,August 20,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,September 3,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,September 17,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,October 1,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday,October 15,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Monday,October 21,2024 4:30 PM Joint Entities Meeting TBD
Hosted by the City of University Heights
Monday, November 4,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday, November 19,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Tuesday, December 10,2024 4:00 PM Work Session City Hall,Emma J. Harvat Hall
6:00 PM Formal Meeting 410 E.Washington Street
Item Number: IP2.
CITY OF OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I - Streets
Attachments: Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I - Streets
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(3 19) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
ws%wltgov.org
May 13, 2024
TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council
RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker I — Streets
Under the authority of the Civil Service Commission of Iowa City, Iowa, I do hereby
certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Maintenance Worker
I — Streets.
1. Clint Fults
2. Josh Baker
3. Zachary Ahrens
Iowa City Civil Service Commission
Aa,"_— -
Rick
Wys , Chair
Item Number: IP3.
CITY OF OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Civil Service Examination: Purchasing Assistant
Attachments: Civil Service Examination: Purchasing Assistant
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CITY OF IOWA CITY
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826
(3 19) 356-5000
(319) 356-5009 FAX
WWW.icgov.org
May 13, 2024
TO: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council
RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Purchasing Assistant
Under the authority of the Civil Service Commission of Iowa City, Iowa, I do hereby
certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Purchasing Assistant.
Keeley Hertle
Iowa City Civil Service Commission
AIiI---------_-.
Rick Wyss, Chair
Item Number: IP4.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Airport Commission: May 9
Attachments: Airport Commission: May 9
MINUTES DRAFT
IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION
May 9, 2024—6:00 P.M.
AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING
Members Present: Hellecktra Orozco, Ryan Story, Chris Lawrence
Members Absent: Warren Bishop, Judy Pfohl
Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Jennifer Schwickerath
Others Present: Carl Byers, Matt Wolford
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None
DETERMINE QUORUM
A quorum was determined at 6:03 pm and Orozco called the meeting to order.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Lawrence asked if Pfohl had commented on the minutes. Tharp stated that Pfohl had submitted
some corrections. Lawrence moved to approve the minutes from April 11, 2024 as amended by
Pfohl, seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0(Bishop, Pfohl absent)
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION t ACTION
a. Airport Construction Projects:
i. FAA grant projects
1. Runway 12/30 Displaced Threshold/Relocation — Tharp noted
that the project is a little behind due to the weather but otherwise is
going pretty well. Tharp stated they did have on the agenda to
approve a flight check agreement with FAA to perform the flight
check of the new lights once they are installed. Lawrence asked if
there would be any affect to the approaches to which Byers stated
he didn't believe their would be.
a. Consider a resolution approving flight check agreement
with FAA — Lawrence moved resolution #A24-11,
seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0 (Bishop, Pfohl
absent)
2. Terminal Area Study—
a. Consider a resolution accepting project as complete —
Tharp stated they had submitted everything to the FAA
for the final time and it has been accepted. Tharp noted
Airport Commission
May 9,2024
Page 2 of 5
they have the study, and the preferred option and that
the Commission can accept the project as complete.
Lawrence moved resolution #A24-12, seconded by
Orozco. Motion carried 3-0 (Bishop, Kohl absent)
3. Solar Power Project—
a. Consider a resolution accepting bids and awarding
contract — Lawrence moved to defer to next meeting,
seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0 (Orozco, Bishop
absent). Tharp stated that the FAA waiver process was
taking a bit longer than he anticipated and he was asking the
Commission to defer this one more time. Tharp stated they
did have information submitted to FAA for the waiver.
Lawrence asked if they were up against any deadlines and
Tharp stated there was a 90 day hold period allowed per the
bid documents and that they had until July 81" to accept.
Tharp stated that he was hoping to have the approvals by the
end of the month and that the Commission should be aware
of a possible special meeting if that does happen. Lawrence
moved to defer, seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0
(Bishop, Pfohl absent)
b. Consider a resolution authorizing chair to sign
renewable energy credit acknowledgements with
MidAmerican Energy— Tharp stated the solar project does
generate a renewable energy credit and that MidAmerican
Energy has 2 options for dealing with it. The first option is
they can pay MidAmerican for that credit to retain it.The other
option and his recommendation was to allow MidAmerican
energy to keep the credit which then also obligates the
company to purchase excess energy produced by the array
at retail value. Lawrence moved resolution #A24-13,
seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0 (Bishop, Pfohl
absent)
ii. Iowa DOT grant projects
1. FY23 Program
a. Terminal Building Improvements — Tharp stated that the
brickwork project is completed and that if Commission
members hadn't seen it yet, they should take a look. Tharp
stated that the Commission can accept this project as
complete as well. Wolford asked about the logo sign and
Tharp stated they held off on the sign pending the attempts
to get funding for the terminal building.
b. Consider a resolution accepting project as complete.
Lawrence moved resolution #A24-14, seconded by
Story. Motion carried 3-0 (Bishop, Pfohl absent)
2. FY 25 application—Tharp stated that he had the application packet
in the project sheet in the packet. Tharp stated that his
recommendation this year is to not apply for anything. Tharp noted
that with the pending application this fall for the terminal building,
they really need every dollar they have to be available for it. Tharp
Airport Commission
May 9,2624
Page 3 of 5
noted that if they don't get selected for the terminal building
replacement project, then they're going to have a good bit of dollars
built up that they could go after a larger project. Commission agreed
with the recommendation by consensus.
b. Airport"Operations"
I. Budget—Tharp noted that they get the rent check for the farm ground, but
noted that it was going to be a really tight budget for the next couple of
months. Tharp stated that he had a conversation with the Army National
Guard as they've restarted the conversation on using the old reserve building
and expanding the footprint of the leased ground.
ii. Management—none
iii. Events—Tharp stated that this weekend was the Young Eagles event at the
airport. Tharp noted that the event is online registration only. Tharp noted
that last year they had several no-shows on the registrations and he was
concerned about it happening again. Tharp stated the next events are
another autocross event and then the drive in movie.
1. Autocross: April 14, June 9, Sept 15, Sept 29
2. Drive-In Movie: July 13 (Barbie)
3. Young Eagles: May 11
4. Pancake Breakfast (Aug 25)
c. FBO/ Flight Training Reports
i. Jet Air—Wolford stated they had a group that came out and did some weed
pulling as a fundraiser. Wolford stated they had a couple of loads of mulch
that they put into the play area and it helped, but wasn't enough. Wolford
noted that they shop was busy and that flying was pretty. Orozco asked
about traffic for graduation. Wolford stated that not a lot of traffic comes in
for graduation. Lawrence asked if they had done anything last year for
Oshkosh and if so would they do something again. Wolford stated that he
thought they had an email blast with fuel discounts.
d. Commission Members' Reports — Lawrence asked about upcoming vacancies
and Orozco stated that she had reapplied. Story asked about the grass runway
updates. Tharp stated he didn't have it on the agenda because he wasn't ready for
it but they were still working through the information. Orozco asked about the
meeting with the City Council. Story said that Pfohl did a great job with their
statement.
e. Staff Report— Tharp stated that there were going to be some upcoming dates that he was
taking time off. Tharp stated that May 231 and 241' and right after the meeting in June he
would have some additional time off.
SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING— Members set the next meeting for June 13th, 2024 at
B:OOpm.
ADJOURN
Lawrence moved to adjourn, seconded by Story. Motion carried 3-0 (Bishop, Pfohl absent),
Meeting adjourned at 6:28pm.
Airport Commission
May 9,2024
Page 4 of 5
CHAIRPERSON DATE
Airport Commission
May 9,2024
Page 5 of 5
Airport Commission
ATTENDANCE RECORD
2023-2024
TERMo 0 0 0 o j
CA CD -4 ca W o s N p N W A G
J oW J i 0 CA1 3 Q j j o
co 00 A t0 W o W N 00 co A > 0
NAME EXP. N N N N ia N N N N iz N N N
W W W W W W W W A A A A A
Warren 06/30/26
Bishop X X X X X O1E X X O/E X X O/E O/E
Scott Clair 06/30/23 XIE O/E Not a member
Christopher 06130125 X X X X X XX X X O/E X X X
Lawrence
Hellecktra 06/30124
X X X X X X X X O/E X X 0/E X
Orozco
Judy Pfohl 06/30/26 X X X X X X X X X X X X O/E
Ryan Story 06/30127 Not a X O/E X O/E X X X X X X X
member
Key:
X = Present
X/E = Present for Part of Meeting
0 = Absent
OIE =Absent/Excused
NM = Not a Member at this time
X/S = Present for subcommittee meeting
0/S =Absent, not a member of the subcommittee
Item Number: IP5.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Charter Review Commission: May 14
Attachments: Charter Review Commission: May 14
MINUTES DRAFT
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION
May 14, 2024—5:30 P.M.
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL
Members Present: John Balmer, Susan Craig, John Deeth, Makenzie DeRoo, Matt Hayek,
Molly Kucera, Jennifer Patel
Members Absent: Gerene Denning, Bijou Maliabo
Staff Present: City Attorney Goers, City Clerk Grace
(Videos of the meetings are available at citychannel4.com typically within 48 hours)
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council
action):
None
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
2. MOTION TO ADOPT DRAFT MINUTES AS PRESENTED OR AMENDED
Moved by Deeth, seconded by Kucera to approve the April 25, 2024, draft minutes as
presented. Motion carried 7-0, Denning and Maliabo absent.
3. REVIEW OF DRAFT PROPOSALS FOR PREAMBLE, DEFINITIONS, ARTICLE I:
POWERS OF THE CITY
City Attorney Goers summarized the proposed changes in the May 9 memorandum which
was included in the meeting packet. Chair Balmer suggested getting a consensus from the
commissioners in attendance and circle back at a later date when everyone is present to
approve.
Commissioner Craig asked for clarification as to why the last few words of the original
proposal for 1.a was left out of the revised proposal which was "in all aspects of life".
Commissioners discussed reasons to include the language. City Attorney Goers noted that
he had removed the language due to the phrase "equal opportunity" earlier in the sentence
as to not suggest everyone will have equal opportunity in all aspects of life and gave
examples. Commissioners discussed options to revise the language. Board members
tentatively agreed on the addition of the following language for item number 1.a of the
Preamble: Each individual shall have an opportunity to participate in the life of the city,
including economic, cultural and intellectual.
Goers reviewed the proposed language by Commissioner Denning which included protected
classes noting that the protected classes in the Model Charter were not the same as the
protected classes in Iowa law and Iowa City Code. Goers stated protected classes are
subject to change and have over time and proposed tracking the language in Title 2 of the
City Code to the following for the addition of item 1.b: Discrimination prohibited by Title 2 of
this Code shall not be tolerated. The Commission tentatively agreed on the proposed
language.
Charter Review Commission
May 14, 2024
Page 2
The Commission had asked City Attorney Goers to review the Charter to search for uses of
the term "Qualified Elector"to see if there was a good reason not to collapse that term into
the definition of"Eligible Elector". Goers noted that the term Qualified Elector appeared in
the Charter eight times and several times in the City Code stating the understanding of the
two different definitions, Qualified Elector as someone who is registered to vote, as opposed
to an Eligible Elector as someone who posses all the qualities to be able to register to vote.
Goers recommended leaving the definition of Qualified Elector in the Charter. Commissioner
Deeth stated his concern for leaving the definition in. There was consensus by the
Commission to leave Qualified Elector in the Charter.
The Commission also asked City Attorney Goers to review the addition of Section 1.04
proposed by Commissioner Denning to reconcile it with Iowa Code Chapter 28E, and to
explore whether the City contracts or otherwise partners with individual states other than
Iowa as follows:
Section 1.04. Intergovernmental Relations.
The City may participate by contract or otherwise with any governmental entity of this state
or any other state or states or the United States in the performance of any activity which one
or more of such entities has the authority to undertake.
Goers stated that Iowa Home Rule, Iowa Chapter 28E, and various federal laws already
provide for the opportunity. Goers proposed to exclude the language due to the limitation it
creates. There was consensus by the Commission to omit the proposed language.
4. REVIEW OF CITY CHARTER: ARTICLE 11: CITY COUNCIL
Chair Balmer suggested containing discussion to City Council and leaving Mayor for the
next meeting. Balmer thanked Commissioner Deeth and Commissioner Denning for
submitting their thoughts which were included in the May 14th meeting packet. DeRoo
confirmed that the discussion would focus on Council districts. Commissioner Deeth
summarized his submission and presented his view on district representation noting that if
the representative body of Councilors were to remain at seven, he felt that two of those
positions should be undergrad students from the University of Iowa. Death mentioned that
there was not a good track record for electing students to the City Council, noting the
permanent community will not vote for student candidates. Deeth would like to see smaller
districts where smaller areas are voting on the candidates. Deeth gave an example of a city
Council model in Wisconsin with a 25-member Council that was elected from small wards.
Deeth stated there is a barrier of having to win city-wide to sit on the Council.
Commissioners discussed the following: student districts, and the current University Student
Government Liaison to the City Council. Vice Chair Kucera feels the voting should fall to the
entire City and that if students want to run for City Council they should campaign. Kucera
also stated that trying to elect a student position could become difficult over the years as
they are being asked to vote on city-wide policies that would affect everyone long term.
Kucera also questioned the definition of student as there are many different kinds of
students in Iowa City. The Commission had additional discussion of students and student
focus. Commissioner Craig stated she was not interested in going beyond seven City
Councilors and was not in favor of carving out a seat for a particular group. Commissioner
Patel would like to see candidates elected from the districts and suggested nine members.
Commissioners discussed participation in government based on the number of Councilors,
the student community, and the University student government. Commissioner Hayek
agreed that seven is a good number and when you add to that you expand the logistics and
cost to the community. Hayek disagreed that students are not represented and have the
Charter Review Commission
May 14, 2024
Page 3
same right of representation as anyone else if they are living in the City limits. The lack of
participation was also noted unless there is a particular issue of interest. Hayek is
concerned that there are other groups that do not get represented and where do you draw
the line when creating a seat for a group. The consensus among the commissioners present
was not to create seats on Council for the student population.
Commissioner Patel mentioned it is more comfortable to go to a Councilor that you are
familiar with and is from your district rather than going to the entire Council. Chair Balmer
asked the Commission to discuss the proposal to have the district candidates only elected
by the district residents. Balmer stated when there is a primary election the district residents
vote on the district candidates but when it comes to the general election the entire city votes
on all of the candidates. Balmer gave some history of when the city Council went from five to
seven members and having geographic balance is important. Balmer pointed out the last
few elections where candidates went uncontested and questioned how to spread awareness
and increase participation in elections. Death reviewed some of the information from the
past election information provided by Chair Balmer in the meeting packet. Commissioner
Patel discussed the lower costs, connections that can be made in district elections, and
concentrated minorities that can be easily overridden by the city-wide voters. Commissioner
DeRoo stated she would have concerns of parochialism if a Councilor only has to answer to
those within the district they were elected. DeRoo also stated there are many issues that
affect the entire city and how does that affect the decision of a district representative if it is
not positive for that district—those issues could be hard to balance. Commissioners
discussed the history of districts, balancing the populations within the districts, and district
mapping using suitable polling places. Commissioner Hayek discussed election participation
and city representatives versus district representatives being responsive to the entire
community. Commissioners discussed the confusion between primary and general elections
for the public, city representation, campaign costs. Individual commissioners expressed their
views. Chair Balmer noted the two absent members and stated that the Commission would
revisit this topic at a later date to finalize opinions. Balmer stated discussion regarding the
Mayor would be held at the next meeting on Thursday, May 23rd
5. TENTATIVE MEETING SCHEDULE
Chair Balmer requested changing the June 11th meeting date to June 17th due to an
absence. Board members in attendance agreed to this change. City Attorney Goers noted
he would be out of town but would send a representative from his office to the meeting.
Commissioner Hayek noted he would be absent for the July 9 meeting and asked if
available meeting dates could be provided to the Commission. City Clerk Grace will check
meeting room availability and bring those dates to the next meeting. Commission Kucera
asked if the summer schedule could be discussed at the next meeting. Grace will add the
item to the agenda.
Chair Balmer noted that the Charter Review Commission is a product of the City Council but
emphasized they are independent and should be making decisions on their own and
suggested not conversing with Councilors until such time as there is a final product. Balmer
noted correspondence received from Councilor Dunn but stated they should be making their
own decisions. City Attorney Goers clarified that correspondence from a Councilor would be
just like any correspondence from the public and if they wished to communicate with the
Commission they may do so.
6. COMMUNITY COMMENT:
Charter Review Commission
May 14, 2024
Page 4
No one appeared.
Chair Balmer noted he had spoken with the City Clerk and asked how meeting information
was communicated to the media stating there had not been any media coverage. Balmer
asked how they could get the media to report on the meetings, more public participation and
asked for suggestions. Vice Chair Kucera asked if theS City would be able to put information
on the website asking for participation and information about the City Charter and
Commission. City Attorney Goers mentioned the City has a Communications Department
that could help with getting the word out if that is what the Commission wanted.
Commissioners discussed suggestions of information to provide. City Attorney Goers asked
commissioners if they were comfortable with staff working with Communications or if they
wanted to review at the next meeting. Commissioners agreed to let staff work with
Communications. Vice Chair Kucera suggested having meetings at the Library once they
have a draft product to solicit feedback from the public. Commissioner noted they are on the
front end and have only had a few meetings suggesting an open house at a later date.
7. ADJOURNMENT:
Moved by Deeth, seconded by Kucera to adjourn the meeting at 6:43 P.M. Motion
carried 7-0, Denning and Maliabo absent.
Charter Review Commission
April 9,2024
Page 5
Charter Review Commission-2024
ATTENDANCE RECORD
TERM A A
O O N
NAME EXP.
N N N
A A N
John Balmer 411!25 X X X
Susan Craig 4/1125 X X O/E
John Deeth 471125 X X X
Gerene Denning 4!1125 X X X
Mackenzie DeRoo 4!1!25 X X O/E
Matt Hayek 411125 X X X
Molly Kucera 4/1125 X X X
Bijou Mahabo 4/1125 X X X
Jennifer Patel 411125 X X X
Key.
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E=Absent/Excused
NM=No meeting
---=Not a member
Item Number: IP6.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Climate Action Commission: May 6
Attachments: Climate Action Commission: May 6
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION
MAY 6, 2024 -3:30 PM—FORMAL MEETING
EMMA J. HARVAT HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michal Eynon-Lynch,Jamie Cade, Ben Grimm,Zach Haralson,Wim
Murray, Brinda Shetty,Angie Smith,Gabriel Sturdevant
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michael Anderson,John Fraser, Michelle Sillman
STAFF PRESENT: Tyler Baird, Daniel Bissell,Sarah Gardner, Megan Hill, Diane Platte
OTHERS PRESENT: Cameron Millel, Green Iowa AmeriCorps
CALL TO ORDER:
Sturdevant called the meeting to order at 3:32,
APPROVAL OF APRIL 1, 2024 MINUTES:
Gade moved to approve the minutes from April 1, 2024. Eynon-Lynch seconded the motion, a vote was
taken, and the motion passed 8-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Action Items from last meeting(Staff):
• Staff shared Bureau of Labor Statistics definition of green jobs for continuation of discussion
• Staff coordinated with Tyler Baird, who is at this meeting,to present on urban forestry efforts
Upcoming Events:
• Iowa Public Procurement Association Conference(May 8)
• Bike to Work Week breakfast(May 16)
• Other events in the community(Commissioners)-none mentioned
UNFINISHED/ONGOING BUSINESS:
Climate Pollution Reduction Grant
• Gardner explained that while the methane capture project for the wastewater treatment plants
for Iowa City and Cedar Rapids was submitted successfully for an implementation grant by the
application deadline,the cities were notified the grant application for energy efficiency projects
to have been submitted by ECICOG was not successfully submitted.The next phase,a
comprehensive climate action plan,will still move forward while awaiting the outcome of the
Climate Action Commission
May 6, 2024
Page 2 of 6
implementation grant application, with RFPs for consultant services for the next phase to be
released soon.
• Gardner asked commissioners to consider whether the Bureau of Labor Statistics definition of
"green jobs" needed any expansion or clarification for use in the comprehensive climate plan.
• Shetty noted that hopefully all jobs will include elements of thinking about how processes can
be more energy efficient or greener; however,gathering metrics on this would be difficult.
• Sturdevant noted that some agricultural practices self-define as green while stretching that
definition beyond meaning.
o Gardner noted that the creation carbon sinks may be a useful requirement for defining
green agricultural practices.
• Haralson noted that the definition of"production processes" is expansive enough to include
operations. It's not just production; greening an office building is possible.
• Gade pointed out that Johnson County has a lot of employers that are very large; collaborating
with some of these large employers to track information about their workers'green jobs may be
helpful in gathering data.
• Sturdevant asked if retraining qualifies as creating a new green job. Gardner affirmed that if a
person's job description includes or adds green tasks, it would count.
NEW BUSINESS:
Discussion of Urban Forestry and the Iowa City Natural Areas Master Plan—Tyler Baird
• In Urban Forestry, climate change impacts the tree canopy one event at a time. Pests such as
emerald ash borer and the ongoing drought are also challenges. City is striving toward 40%
canopy coverage. iTree assessment takes aerial views randomly around town and shows that
Iowa City has 34%canopy coverage.
• The plan includes a goal to plant 750 trees/year, planted by staff and/or volunteers. City has
actually been averaging close to 800 trees/year over the past 5 years.So far in 2024, 157 trees
have been planted with the help of volunteers.
• Staff are planning to plant 500 trees this fall with staff,targeting Mormon Trek strip and South
of 6, as well as infill. Focus areas are neighborhoods without much canopy coverage and
neighborhoods that may not have as much disposable income to put toward trees.
• Root for Trees has been a very successful program. It is a mechanism to get trees into private
property. Right-of-way is harder place to establish trees, due to utilities and space. Baird
suggested trying not to plant what your neighbor has as useful guidance in selecting a tree. Iowa
City's current canopy is 30%maple.
• The Natural Areas Management Plan was created in 2017-2018. Guiding principles cover
vegetation, wildlife, soil and hydrology, and human use.
• 2020 was a big year for prairie restoration. Prairie is important for carbon sequestration.
• Forestry staff are seeing more invasive species, an impact partially driven by the changing
climate.They can outcompete the native species and do not provide ecosystem services.Staff
are targeting a number of species for removal: nonnative honeysuckle, reed canary grass,
smooth brome, wild parsnip,sweet clover, Canada thistle, garlic mustard, buckthorn, knotweed,
oriental bittersweet,Japanese hops, multiflora rose, barberry(do not buy even though it's
available—ticks really like it),teasel,autumn olive, common reed.Two new ones: Bradford pear
(do not buy even though it's available), poison hemlock.
2
Climate Action Commission
May 6, 2024
Page 3 of 6
• Restoration management tasks include removal of invasive woody vegetation (targeting
Ryerson's Woods, Hickory Hill, Sand Prairie)and removal of invasive herbaceous vegetation.
Ecological monitoring involves visiting sites where work has been done. Controlled burning is a
best tool for making sure prairie ecosystem stays healthy. Each spring, staff burn 50-100 acres.
The City's many small plots of prairie create a unique challenge. Converted 160+acres of turf
grass to native vegetation.Winning over people to be supportive of prairie as it develops.
• Volunteers like Friends of Hickory Hill Park, Longfellow Nature Trail,Sycamore Greenway help
maintain green spaces. Department does not yet have a full-time permanent position to manage
volunteers; hoping to get funding for staff. Equipment helps with efficiency: prescribed fire gear,
hydro-seeder, native seed drill, mulcher.
• Priority areas: Ryerson's Woods(received REAP grant in 2021), Hickory Hill Park (received REAP
grants in 2018, 2019, 2022 as well as capital funding), Kickers Soccer Park wetlands and prairie
areas,Sand Prairie:woody removals, prescribed burning,targeted treatment of brome,
Sycamore Greenway volunteers help with trash removal and woody/invasive removal,Terry
Trueblood Recreation Area (2021 REAP grant),Waterworks Prairie Park prescribed burn
regimen, prairie expansion.Other areas: Rohret Road prairie,Whispering Meadows Wetland
Park(REAP grant in 2020),Ashton House.
• Received $1.3 million in REAP grants in the past 5 years.
• Smith thanked Baird for his passion and work.Asked how homeowners can convert lawn to
prairie landscaping,what education resources are available. Baird noted that the Rec
programming included Native Plant Symposium last year. Bur Oak Land Trust and Backyard
Abundance offer education. Neighbors sharing with neighbors is the most powerful resource.
• Eynon-Lynch praised the clear, measurable goal of 40%canopy coverage and the progress
toward that.Asked how the plan gets used to determine how a natural area gets preserved or
sacrificed to development. Baird answered all that natural areas identified in the plan are
protected from development pressure because they are already in the parks system. REAP
grants can be used to expand natural areas.The development of the assistive living facility by
Hickory Hill Park added 40 acres of woodland to the park.The plan notes that larger parcels or
connected parcels are preferable. For this reason, if a developer wants to give the city a small
area that is going to be predominantly turf grass as a park,that is not going to be as high a
priority as land that is adjacent to an already established park, especially if it is a natural area.
The priority parks also help determine which areas to apply for REAP grant support.
• Eynon-Lynch asked what's blocking the full-time staff and how commissioners can advocate.
Baird answered City-wide budget picture is a factor, but as parks expand,the priority will
become clearer. In 2015,there was not a natural areas part of Parks and Rec Division.Advocacy
beyond the city level would be the best lever because City leadership is already on board.
• Sturdevant asked if the heat maps could be combined with LIDAR data to target areas for tree
planting/additions. Baird responded that they have not combined the heat map and the plan,
but looking at them individually they are able to see where the overlap is. Management plans
typically are good for 10 years,so this plan will likely be updated around 2027-28.
• Sturdevant asked how much trial-and-error goes into prairie establishment. Baird explained in
some cases they try again (reseed),sometimes they accept some nonnative species mixed with
native species, as long as it doesn't have some of the weedy species.The process and its success
are weather-dependent.They like to seed in November.
• Gade asked if ticks are tracked. Baird said he was not sure who housed that data,and noted that
often they are asked how to keep ticks out of a yard. He said mulch can serve as a tick barrier.
Grimm described a dropcloth test that ICCSD uses.
3
Climate Action Commission
May 6, 2024
Page 4 of 6
• Murray asked how residents can add a tree to a right-of-way. Baird described some options: call
Forestry staff to be added to the list for the city to plant a tree for you or fill out a right of way
planting permit to plant one yourself. In both cases Forestry staff will check your proposed right
of way location for suitability before approving the request.
• Murray asked if any resident can apply for a Root for Trees voucher. Baird and Gardner affirmed
that is the case. Gardner noted it was limited to one voucher per household per year and
covered 50%of the cost of the tree. Income qualified households could apply to receive a
voucher for a 90%discount.
• Smith asked about Baird's insights on residential rooftop prairie programs like Portland's. Baird
noted that green roofs are becoming more popular and have energy efficiency benefits as well.
• Smith asked about the electrification of the department's fleet. Baird reported not much
electrification yet—having capacity to charge is a challenge. Smaller chainsaws have changed
over to electric,weed-eaters as well at one athletic complex as a way to test the technology.
The truck Baird uses is a hybrid model that averages 38 mpg. Big equipment needs so much
power, not sure if the electric technology is there yet.Gardner added that the consultant for the
Fleet Electrification Plan will be presenting at the next meeting.
• Grimm asked if Root for Trees program was offsetting the limits on the City's ability to plant
trees in areas where right of ways are too narrow to support tree planting. Baird noted that was
one of the impetuses behind starting the program, hopefully some have been planted in
neighborhoods with smaller, more difficult-to-plant ROWS. Grimm asked about tree eligibility.
Baird clarified that only maples and pear trees are ineligible for vouchers.
• Haralson wondered how management practices might help mitigate climate change—are there
any specific practices in play that help sequester carbon. Baird noted that a better mix of
understory species and canopy create a better functioning ecosystem that can sequester more
carbon and help reduce runoff. Prairies sequester more carbon with their long roots. Haralson
asked if there are ways to work with DOT or other regional players to install more prairie. Baird
noted that County has a roadside vegetation management staff that seeds back with natives
where they can.State DOT has to balance height of species and ability to burn next to an
interstate.
Climate action impact game
• Gardner described an engagement activity which asks participants to rank a number of climate
actions from greater to lesser in terms of greenhouse gas reductions.The degree to which they
are able to do so determines how close they can stand to a cornhole board to toss a bean bag.
The Forestry staff created a cornhole set for the Climate Action staff made from reclaimed
urban lumber for this activity,which were displayed at the back of the room. She noted it spoke
to the spirit of collaboration among City staff that has been helpful in moving forward on
climate action goals.
RECAP:
• Confirmation of next meeting time and location:
o Monday,June 3, 3:30-5 p.m., Emma J. Harvat Hall
• Actionable items for commission,working groups, and staff:
o Staff will relay commissioners'thoughts on green jobs to the partners working on the
regional climate action plan
o Eynon-Lynch requested adding a discussion of suggestions on frequency of metrics
4
Climate Action Commission
May 6, 2024
Page 5 of 6
reporting and potential uses to a future meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
Grimm moved to adjourn, Murray seconded the motion. A vote was taken,and the motion passed 8-0.
Meeting adjourned at 5:05.
5
Climate Action Commission
May 6, 2024
Page 6 of 6
CLIMATE ACTION COMM ISSIO NATTENDANCE RECORD
2023-2024
m ti m r o ti N \ w as to
NAME TERM EXP.
w w w w w
Michael 12/31/2025 NM 0/E X O/E O/E
Anderson
Michal Eynon- 12/31/2024 NM X X X X X X NM X X X X
Lynch
Elizabeth 12/31/2025 NM O/E X
Fitzsimmons
John Fraser 12/31/2024 NM X O/E X X X NM x X X O/E
Jamie Gade 12/31/2025 NM X X X 0/ X X NM X X X X
E
Ben Grimm 10/31/2023 NM X O/E X X X X NM X O/E X x
Zach Haralson 12/31/2025 NM x x X x
Matt Krieger 12/31/2023 NM X O/E X O/ X O/E
E
Jesse Leckband MidAmerican NM X
Rep
Wim Murray MidAmerican X X X X X NM X x X X
Rep
Michelle Sillman 12/31/20025 NM X X X X X X NM O/E X X O/E
Brinda Shetty UI Rep NM X O/E X X X O/E NM X X X X
Angie Smith 12/31/2025 X X NM X x X x
Gabe Sturdevant 12/31/2024 NM X X X X O/E X NM X X X X
Matt Walter 12/31/2023 NMX X X X O/E X
KEY: X= Present
0 =Absent
0/E =Absent/ExcusedNM=
No Meeting
* No longer on Commission
6
Item Number: IP7.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Library Board of Trustees: April 25
Attachments: Library Board of Trustees: April 25
,�ftt IOWA CITY
A4W PUBLIC LIBRARY
Iowa City Public Library Board of Trustees
Meeting Minutes
April 25, 2024
1st Floor— Meeting Room D
Regular Meeting - 5:00 PM
DRAFT
Tom Rocklin - President Joseph Massa John Raeburn
DJ Johnk—Vice President Claire Matthews Dan Stevenson
Hannah Shultz-Secretary Robin Paetzold
Members Present: DJ Johnk, Joseph Massa, Robin Paetzold, John Raeburn, Tom Rocklin, Hannah
Shultz.
Members Absent: Claire Matthews, Dan Stevenson.
Staff Present: Anne Mangano, Angie Pilkington, Katie Roche, Jen Royer.
Guests Present: None.
Call Meeting to Order. Rocklin called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm.
Approval of April 25, 2024 Board Meeting Agenda. Johnk made a motion to approve
the April 25, 2024 Board Meeting Agenda. Rocklin seconded. Motion passed 6/0.
Public Discussion. None.
Helmick entered 5:00 pm.
Items to be Discussed.
Policy Review: 805 Displays. Rocklin asked if passive discussion meant that people could write in
responses. Helmick agreed. Raeburn asked if Trustees were wedded to the term passive discussion.
Helmick clarified they were open to what made sense to the public. Raeburn suggested examination of
the public. Rocklin felt the term wasn't easy to research and suggested using interactive displays as it
could take many forms.
Paulios entered 5:02 pm.
Rocklin proposed, "...to engage the public through interactive displays relevant to society". Helmick
agreed and thanked Rocklin. Paetzold asked for the proposed language to be repeated and Mangano
replied. Johnk made a motion to approve Policy 80S as revised. Shultz seconded. Motion passed 6/0.
I f you will need disabilityrelatedaccommodations in order to participate in this meeting,please contactlen Royer,Iowa City
Public Library,at 379-887-6003 or iennifer-royer@icyt om . Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
QW.9 IOWA CITY
04W PUBLIC LIBRARY
Policy Review: 706 Outreach and Bookmobile. Raeburn proposed eliminating "strategic partnerships"
from the policy. Helmick appreciated and thanked Raeburn. Raeburn made a motion to approve policy
706 as revised. Johnk seconded. Motion passed 6/0.
Election of Officers. Raeburn, representing the nominating committee, presented a slate of officers for
FY25: President-Tom Rocklin, Vice President-DJ Johnk, Secretary- Hannah Shultz. Raeburn said
overwhelmingly the current officers were requested to continue in their positions for one more year.
Massa made a motion to approve the FY25 slate of officers. Johnk seconded. Motion passed 6/0.
Review Third Quarter Statistics and Financials. Mangano said an internal document was accidentally
included in the statistics portion of the packet. Mangano noted paper copies of the Type and Format
report, which normally goes in the Board packet, was handed out at the meeting. Mangano shared the
Circulation by Location Code report provided in the packet was very detailed and noted the Type and
Format report shows a more holistic view of the statistics.
Johnk asked if the library needed to do anything to budget for bookmobile repair and maintenance,
noting overages. Mangano said the overages were chargebacks from the City of Iowa City. Mangano
shared there have been a few unexpected expenses and noted the bookmobile is now 5 years old with
normal wear and tear. Shultz asked how long bookmobiles usually last. Helmick said the industry
standard suggests 12-15 years. Mangano said there is a replacement vehicle fund to cover a new vehicle
when the time comes. Raeburn asked how many miles per year the bookmobile drives. Helmick said it is
fairly low and estimated 250 miles per year. Helmick requested to confirm the exact mileage per year
and report back. Pilkington said the bookmobile was seven years old. Paetzold said the COVID-19 years
were weird in terms of bookmobile mileage. Raeburn asked if you needed a special license to drive the
bookmobile. Helmick said not anymore. Rocklin said the formatting of the financial report was great.
Raeburn said the Finance Committee met. Massa noted the committee didn't see anything out of the
ordinary. Raeburn said the overages were thoroughly explained and things are in good shape. Rocklin
asked if the Finance Committee meetings should be listed in the monthly agendas.
Pilkington said the bookmobile currently has 30,781 miles on it. Helmick said the bookmobile is
somewhere in the ballpark of 4,400 miles per year. Rocklin suspected the bookmobile will likely be
outdated before it is worn out. Raeburn asked who made the bookmobile. Helmick said there are a few
companies who manufacture bookmobiles and new orders typically take 18 months. Helmick said
Summit is the largest of three bookmobile manufacturers right now. Pilkington said Summit made the
Iowa City Public Library's bookmobile.
Mangano shared she attended PLA conference and went to an Urban Library Council collection
development summit. The group talked about developing world language collections, how to pay for
digital materials and keep a robust print collection, and when to get rid of AV collections. Mangano said
what was interesting to her, that though we are down in print circulation, some of the larger libraries
such as San Francisco, New York, and Brooklyn Public Libraries are seeing drastic reduction in use of
print materials. Mangano noted this was probably because of the way people are working now, with less
people going downtown in cities. Mangano noted the Iowa City Public Library is not seeing those trends
in the same way that some of the larger libraries are. Paetzold asked if there was a baseline and noted
I f you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting,please contact len Royer,Iowa City
Public Library,at 3]9-887-6003 oriennifer-royer�ispLo% Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
,�ftt IOWA CITY
r1W PUBLIC LIBRARY
that COVID -19 may have affected this. Mangano said libraries were comparing data from the COVID-19
period and noted ICPL has seen circulation bounce back. Mangano said the larger libraries are now
working on a strategic plan that involves bringing people back into the building. Johnk liked the
statistical reports. Mangano noted magazine circulation is up.
Staff Reports.
Director's Report. Mangano said Bonnie Boothroy will be oriented before the next Board meeting.
Departmental Reports: Children's Services. Mangano said during the solar eclipse it was wonderful to
stand in the PeclMall and see droves of people all wearing the same exact solar glasses that they got
from the library. Paulios said the library eventually ran out of solar glasses. Pilkington said 1,000 glasses
were handed out before the day of the eclipse and an additional 1,000 glasses were handed out the day
of the eclipse.
Collection Services. None.
IT.Johnk was excited about the scavenger hunt. Rocklin said media transfer is important and a heavily
used service.
Development Report. Roche noted book donations were coming in for the June book sale. Roche
discussed a new partnership with the Landfill. Roche said the Landfill was previously recycling books.
The Foundation will begin to take the books from the Landfill and send them to Thrift Books which will
help divert waste and save money for the Landfill. Roche anticipates a passive income of $9,000-$12,000
per year from this partnership. Roche got this idea after attending the City's Climate Ambassador
training.
Miscellaneous: News Articles. None.
President's Report.
President Appoints to Foundation Board. Rocklin requested to move this item to the May agenda.
Rocklin shared he accepted an appointment to the United Way Board of Directors.
Announcements from Members. None.
Committee Reports. None.
Communications. None.
Consent Agenda. Johnk made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. Raeburn seconded.
Motion passed 610.
Set Agenda Order for May Meeting. Rocklin said at the May meeting Trustees will review the
Event Board policy, Community Relations policy, appoint members to the Foundation, and review
departmental reports.
Adjournment. Rocklin adjourned the meeting at 5:29 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Jen Royer
t fyou will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate in this meeting,please contact Jen Royer,Iowa City
Public Library,at 379-887-6003 or iennifer-royerCa7icvlory. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to
meet your access needs.
X..N of Com mi... ICP¢Boa[tl of h.,—
AMNOANOERECORD
Name Te[m 5]]5/3@3 W23/20E3 J(ZImu 026/3033 0/}0/0033 9/28/2023 W26AU23 ll/36/2.1 33/34/2033 12(3VI.l 3/25(3024 M( /M39 SCE11 . 3CW./ 9/IS/ION
Iobnk DJ O 2023 % X % % % OE % % I E X OE % N
K- C-1 6J30 2023 % X TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE TE
M."T..F 6/301.7 % % % % % % % X OE X % X OF % %
m... we CI91fe WIGIzoa % % OE X OE % % X % X % X N % OE
Paehold RobEC 6/30/wn X X TE % OE % 6 X % % N % % % %
Raeb,"jum w30(WJ X X % % % OE X OE X % X % % % %
fl d'M,Tam QS .. OE X X N % X X % X
San[osG—.Wry 6/3012029 CE % % DE % % OE OE X R 0 D R
SEU,E—UU 6/30/20]5 % OE % % % OE % X OE % DC
54venson.0ame1 6)301202] OE R OE X X X % % % % % OC
XEY:
% I.".
0 ARDENT
DE EXCUSED ABDEM
NM NOMEETINSTIRO
R RESIGNED
lE Te[m EX"'.
Item Number: IP8.
CITY OF IOWA CITY
COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
May 23, 2024
Senior Center Commission: May 16
Attachments: Senior Center Commission: May 16
Preliminary Minutes
May 16, 2024
MINUTES
SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION
May 16, 2024
Assembly Room, Iowa City Senior Center
Members Present: Nancy Ostrognai, Jay Gilchrist, Betty Rosse, Lee McKnight,
Warren Paris
Members Absent: Angela McConville
Staff Present: Kristin Kromray, LaTasha DeLoach
Others Present: Abbee Kelly
CALL TO ORDER:
The meeting was called to order by Gilchrist at 4:05 PM.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL:
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE APRIL 18, 2024 MEETING:
Motion: To accept the minutes from the April 18, 2024. Motion carried on a
5/0 vote. Paris/Ostrognai
PUBLIC DISCUSSION:
None.
OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW:
DeLoach noted that she will ask programming staff to attend the June meeting.
There are several concerts next week including SSRO (readers theater group),
Sound Reach (in partnership with West Music), and Voices of Experience. There
will be a ribbon cutting at the VOE concert for the grand piano at that was
purchased by Friends of the Senior Center.
The Underground Railroad trip will be moved to from June 8th to June 15th due to
a conflict at one of the museums.
Additional work is being done on the exterior of the building. The previous below
grade foundation had some surface damage and is being corrected. The second
exterior phase, which includes exterior doors and windows will occur next year.
1
Preliminary Minutes
May 16, 2024
COMMISSION DISCUSSION:
A proclamation for Older Americans Month will be presented on May 21 at the
City Council meeting. Ostrognai and Paris will attend to accept it.
Ostrognai reported that she had talked with a couple of people who did not know
about SEATS and suggest that information be included in the program guide.
DeLoach noted that the Senior center can connect people with the Johnson
County Mobility Coordinator. Gilchrist suggested that a presentation with the
mobility coordinator would be helpful.
Betty noted a few suggestions from people at Ecumenical Towers. They include
expanding the Monday coffee to additional days, having more chairs with arms
on them, additional craft classes and the option to sell those items.
Gilchrist noted he will not be able to attend the June meeting.
Meeting Adjourned.
2
Preliminary Minutes
May 16, 2024
Senior Center Commission Attendance Record
6/15/23 7/20/23 8/17/23 9/21/23 10/19/23 11/16/23 12/21/23 1/18/23 2/15/2024 3/21/24 4/18/24 5/16/24
Name Tenn Expires
Betty 12/31/26 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X X
Rosso
Jay 12/31/25 X X X X X NM O/E NM X X X X
Gilchrist
Tasha 12/31/24 O X O X O NM O NM 0 O O --
Lard
Angela 12/31/24 X X O/E X X NM X NM X X X O/E
McConville
Lee 12/31/24 X X X X X NM X NM X X O/E X
McKnight
Susan 12/31/23 X X O/E X O/E NM X -- -- -- -- --
Mcllecker
Nancy 12/31/23 OE X X X X NM X NM X X X X
Ostrognai
Warren 12/31/25 X X X X X NM X NM O X X X
Paris
Key: X=Present 0=Absent O/E=Absent/Excused NM No meeting --=Not a member
3