HomeMy WebLinkAbout1.29.25 UAPB Agenda Packet
MEETING NOTICE
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 – 4:30 PM
City of Iowa City – Council Chambers
410 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA
AGENDA
1. Call to Order
a. Recognize alternates & welcome new Board members
b. Consider approval of meeting minutes
c. Set next Board meeting date (March 26, location TBD)
2. Public Discussion of any item not on the agenda*
3. Administration
a. Report from nominating committee for 2025 MPOJC Board officers
i. Consider action
b. Consider approval of the FY26 MPOJC Budget and financial forecast
c. Consider approval of the FY26 Johnson County Assessments for the East Central Iowa Council of
Governments
d. Consider appointments to the East Central Iowa Council of Governments Board of Directors
e. Discuss MPOJC Orientation opportunity for Board members
4. Transportation Planning
a. Consider approval of Federal Transit Administration Section 5307 Transit Operating Formula funding
apportionment for FY2024
b. Consider approval of MPOJC Surface Transportation Block Grant, Transportation Alternatives
Program, and Carbon Reduction Program grant funding process
c. Consider a Resolution approving participation in the Iowa DOT pavement data collection program
d. Update on the MPOJC FY26 Transportation Planning Work Program and FY26-29 Transportation
Improvement Program
e. Update on the ‘Trip Connect’ transportation pilot from the Johnson County Mobility Coordinator
5. Other Business
6. Adjournment
Please note the MPOJC Rural Policy Board meeting will start after adjournment of the Urban Policy
Board meeting at approximately 6:00 PM.
*Public input is permitted on any agenda item. Please indicate to the Chair if you wish to comment on an
agenda item. To request any disability-related accommodations or language interpretation, please contact
MPOJC staff at 319-356-5230 or Kent-Ralston@Iowa-City.org 48 hours prior to the meeting.
MINUTES DRAFT
MPOJC URBANIZED AREA POLICY BOARD
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 – 4:30 PM
JOHNSON COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BUILDING – 2ND FLOOR
CONFERENCE ROOM
855 S. DUBUQUE STREET, IOWA CITY, IA
MEMBERS PRESENT: Iowa City: Laura Bergus, Megan Alter, Shawn Harmsen,
Mazahir Salih
Johnson County: Jon Green, Rod Sullivan
North Liberty: Brian Wayson, Chris Hoffman
University Heights: Louise From
University of Iowa: Greg Schmitt
Coralville: Meghann Foster
STAFF PRESENT: Kent Ralston, Emily Bothell, Hannah Neel, Sarah Walz, Madelyn Stoen
OTHER: Matt Burkey, Eric Sittig, Evan Doyle, Cady Gerlach, Luke Hoffman,
Marcus Coenen, Josh Palik, Melanie Bimson
1. CALL TO ORDER
From called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. The meeting was held in the Johnson County
Health and Human Services Building in Iowa City.
a. Recognize alternates
None.
b. Consider approval of meeting minutes
Sullivan moved to approve; Hoffman seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
c. Set next Board meeting date, time, and location
Tentatively scheduled for January 29th, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at Iowa City City Hall.
2. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
3. ADMINISTRATION
a. Confirm entities that will nominate Johnson County representatives to the East Central
Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) Board of Directors
Ralston reminded the Board of the revision and approval of the MPOJC Bylaws
stipulating how appointments are made to the ECICOG Board of Directors in 2020.
Per the revised Bylaws, each January the Johnson County Board of Supervisors
appoints one elected official representative and one citizen representative to the
ECICOG Board, and the Urbanized Area Policy Board appoints two elected official
representatives to the ECICOG Board. Ralston explained that one elected official seat
appointed by the Urbanized Area Policy Board will be filled by the four largest
municipalities by population. The 2025 representative is to be designated by Tiffin.
The other elected official seat appointed by the Urbanized Area Policy Board will be
filled by the remaining municipalities on a rotating basis. The 2025 representative will
be designated by Hills.
Ralston will be contacting each entity responsible for designating representatives to
the ECICOG Board of Directors. The designees will be recognized by the MPOJC
Policy Board at the January meeting.
Hoffman requested to remain on the ECICOG Board unless the City of Tiffin objected.
b. Appoint a nominating committee for Calendar Year 2025 Urbanized Area Policy Board
officers
Ralston stated that at the January meeting, the Board will elect a Chairperson and
Vice Chairperson for the calendar year 2025 Urbanized Area Policy Board. Ralston
explained that the Chairperson is responsible for presiding over all meetings of the
Board. The Chairperson and/or Director are also responsible for signing contracts and
other federally required documents. The Vice Chairperson assumes the duties of the
Chair if not available.
Ralston asked the Board to consider appointing a three-person nominating committee
to recommend a Chair and Vice-Chair for the 2025 Urbanized Area Policy Board, with
the nominating committee reporting at the January meeting where the Chair and Vice-
Chair will be elected. Ralston noted that the current Chair, Louise From (Mayor,
University Heights) and Vice-Chair, Rod Sullivan (Johnson County Board of
Supervisors), have both served in their roles for one year. There is a two-year
maximum term for these positions.
Jon Green, Megan Alter, and Brian Wayson volunteered to serve on the nominating
committee.
c. Preliminary discussion of the FY26 MPOJC Budget
Ralston explained that the MPOJC budget will considered by the Board at the meeting
in January. Ralston reminded the Board of the focus and purpose of the MPO, which
is as follows:
• Fulfill requirements necessary for local communities to receive state and
federal transportation capital and operating funds.
• Produce professional studies to support transportation-related decisions and
capital project selection/funding.
• Coordinate transit planning and transit reporting consistent with state and
federal regulations for Iowa City Transit, Coralville Transit, and the University
of Iowa CAMBUS.
• Assist local entities with review of development proposals and associated
transportation planning.
• To serve as a forum for other regional issues/decisions.
Ralston stated that capital expenses for FY26 are expected to be like recent years.
Ralston is not proposing any changes to the level of MPO staffing for FY26 and
anticipates an approximate 2.4% increase in the total MPO budget – primarily due to
increases in staff salaries and health benefit costs.
Ralston anticipates using $280,000 of Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT)
‘Planning Funds’ in FY26. This is an increase from the $230,000 used in previous
years, because of increases provided by the new transportation legislation. Ralston
stated that this increase ensures an appropriate balance of funds per Department of
Transportation (DOT) guidelines and defrays local funding necessary for MPO
operations. Ralston also expects to use approximately $24,000 of internal reserves to
maintain an appropriate balance of funds.
d. Authorize the Executive Director to execute a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A)
grant on behalf of participating entities
Ralston reminded the Board of the joint application for a Safe Streets and Roads for
All (SS4A) grant to create a Safety Action Plan focused on reducing roadway deaths
and serious injuries. Ralston explained that Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A)
grants go directly to regional, local, and tribal communities for implementation,
planning, and demonstration projects driven at the local level to improve safety and
help prevent deaths and serious injuries on the nation’s roadways.
In December 2023, the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded MPOJC a
$300,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant. Ralston explained that because
the grant is in MPOJC’s name, authorization is needed from the Board to execute the
contract to accept the funds. Following the authorization of the funds, MPOJC staff will
work directly with Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin, and University Heights to
secure the required local matching funds to advance the project, publish a request for
proposals, and hire a consultant to complete the Safety Action Plan.
From asked for a motion to authorize the Executive Director to execute the Safe
Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant on behalf of participating entities.
Green moved to approve, Salih seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
e. Consider a Resolution providing the Executive Director the authority to execute grants
and contracts on behalf of the MPOJC
Ralston explained that after recent discussions with legal staff, a determination was
made that the MPOJC Executive Director does not currently have the explicit authority,
per the adopted MPOJC Bylaws, to execute contracts and grants on behalf of MPOJC
and its member communities. Ralston stated that this lack of authority, coupled with
the infrequency of MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board meetings, has led to delays
in executing contracts and advancing projects in the past. Therefore, legal staff has
advised that to avoid these delays in the future, a Resolution authorizing the MPOJC
Executive Director to execute contracts and grant agreements be considered. If
approved, the Executive Director would still be required to submit the contract or grant
agreement to the Iowa City Attorney’s Office for their review prior to executing said
documents.
From asked for a motion to consider a Resolution providing the Executive Director the
authority to execute grants and contracts on behalf of MPOJC.
Sullivan moved to approve, Harmsen seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
4. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
a. Consider approval of scoring criteria for Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG),
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon Reduction Program (CRP)
funds allocated by MPOJC
Bothell explained that MPOJC grant applications for Surface Transportation Block
Grant (STBG), Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon Reduction
Program (CRP) funding will be available in February 2025. Bothell noted that there will
be approximately $15 million to be allocated to local communities.
Bothell stated that before the grant applications are available, the Board has the
opportunity to review and make edits to the criteria used to score and rank projects.
These criteria were last reviewed and approved by the Board in November 2022.
Bothell explained that these criteria align with the ‘Guiding Principles’ outlined in the
MPOJC 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan, ensuring that funded projects meet
the organization’s goals. If the Board decides to modify the criteria, staff recommends
that the modifications align with these ‘Guiding Principles’.
The scoring criteria were unanimously recommended for approval by the
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) at their November 5th, 2024,
meeting.
Bothell reminded the Board that the scoring criteria is just one tool for assessing and
comparing potential grant-funded projects and that the Policy Board is not obligated to
award funding solely based on project scores.
Alter asked what some of the other criteria could be besides the scoring criteria.
Bothell responded that projects could be evaluated based on their merit or the need of
the community, but that there has not yet been a project that fell outside of the scoring
criteria. Ralston added that if projects fell outside of the current scoring cr iteria, or if
the Board felt as though funds were being unequally allocated to communities, that
they could discuss additional criteria.
From asked for a motion to approve the scoring criteria for Surface Transportation
Block Grant (STBG), Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Carbon
Reduction Program (CRP) funds allocated by MPOJC.
Alter moved to approve the scoring criteria, Green seconded. The motion carried
unanimously.
b. Update on Federal Functional Classification revision process for local roadways
Bothell stated that the MPOJC grant application for Surface Transportation Block grant
(STBG) funding will be available in February 2025. Bothell explained that these funds
can only be used for roadways classified as collectors or higher on the Federal
Functional Classification (FFC) system. At their November 5th, 2024, Transportation
Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) meeting, members were asked to review the
current FFC map and submit any needed revisions by November 30th.
To be included on the FFC system, roadways must demonstrate a high level of
transportation connectivity. Bothell noted that roadways that do not show this
connectivity or new roadways not included in a community’s Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) will not be approved by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT).
Bothell noted that this map is updated every two years in advance of funding cycles.
Ralston stated that the FFC system updates are an important step in preparing for
grant funding applications.
Bothell also shared the estimated dollar amounts available for each funding source,
which are as follows:
• Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) – $10 Million (FY29 – 30)
• Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) – $2 Million (FY27 – 30)
• Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) – $3 Million (FY23 – 30)
c. Consider approval of safety targets and performance measures for the MPO as
required by the Federal Highway Administration
Ralston reminded the Board of the requirement set by the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) that MPO’s set targets for five safety performance measures
as part of the Highway Safety Improvement Program to be reported to the State
Department of Transportation (DOT) by February 27th each year. Ralston stated that
MPOJC can either choose to support the targets set by the State or set targets for
each measure for the metropolitan area.
Ralston explained that MPO’s are also required to set targets for pavement, bridge,
and system reliability performance measures as part of the Highway Safety
Improvement Program to be reported to the State DOT every two years. Since the
performance measures were last reported, the DOT has revised three of the four
targets.
Ralston stated that although there is the option to create targets for our metropolitan
area, there is no clear benefit to doing so. As such, Ralston recommended the
adoption of the State’s targets for both the safety performance measures and the
pavement, bridge, and system reliability performance measures.
From asked for a motion for approval of the safety targets and performance measures.
Hoffman moved to approve; Wayson seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
d. Presentation of the CRANDIC Bus Rapid Transit Feasibility Study
Ralston stated that the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) feasibility study is complete. The goal
of the study was to examine the feasibility of providing BRT service in the study
corridor and to make comparisons to the previous passenger rail studies that were
completed in 2020. The study was completed by a team of consultants from Felsburg,
Holt & Ullevig (FHU) and Nelson Nygaard.
Marcus Coenen and Josh Palik of the consultant team presented their findings to the
Board.
Coenen explained the criteria that were used in narrowing down the routes and stops
for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line and how alternatives were selected. They began
the process with 8 alternatives and narrowed them down to 3 alternatives. Once
alternatives were narrowed down, they looked at capital improvements that would be
necessary for each remaining alternative.
Coenen detailed the differences in costs, service hours, frequency, and operation
statistics for each remaining alternative. Changes to existing CAMBUS, Iowa City
Transit, and Coralville Transit service and stops were also discussed. An important
change to Iowa City Transit and Coralville Transit that was discussed was the provision
of Sunday transit services, as neither transit agency currently operates on Sundays.
Coenen then noted predicted boardings and total ridership trends for each alternative.
All three remaining alternatives have a predicted daily ridership of around 5,000 by
2045.
Based on the information presented, the consultant team recommended alternative 5
as the preferred alternative. This alternative is expected to have capital costs of around
$91.95 million, with yearly operation costs around $2.35 million.
Different funding alternatives were then detailed, with the Federal Transit
Administration’s (FTA) Capital Investment Grants (CIG) Small Starts program
emerging as a potential funding opportunity.
Finally, a few of the benefits of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) were discussed as compared
to passenger rail including lower operating costs, the ability to tailor capacity to
demand, and the flexibility in adjusting the ending terminals.
After the findings were presented, next steps were discussed. These next steps
included determining the preferred approach to transit (BRT or rail) on the corridor,
preparing grant applications, reaching a regional consensus on the agency to operate
the service, and identifying the preferred regional funding source for operating costs.
Ralston noted that there will be future meetings to further discuss these options.
Ralston will be attending the Iowa City City Council work session on November 19th,
2024, to begin this discussion and plans to attend the joint entities meeting in January.
5. OTHER BUSINESS
a. Update from the Iowa Bicycle Coalition
Hoffman updated the Board on the Iowa Bicycle Coalition’s Economic Impact Study of
Cycling and Trails. Hoffman stated that this study seeks to fill in the gaps of past
studies to better represent the economic value of cycling and trails across the state.
As a part of this study update, specific regions will be analyzed, with the MPOJC area
being one of three selected regions.
Hoffman asked the Board for support in funding the study and marketing it to the
public. The Board agreed to support the study.
Hoffman explained that the Iowa Bicycle Coalition has also started a hands-free
coalition, which advocates for the passage of a full hands-free driving law in Iowa. The
coalition seeks to reduce the use of smartphones while driving to improve safety,
reduce collision frequency, and collision severity.
6. ADJOURNMENT
Alter moved to adjourn the meeting, Green seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
From adjourned the meeting at 6:11 p.m.
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
January 22, 2025
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Kent Ralston; Executive Director
Agenda Item #3(a): Report from nominating committee for 2025 MPOJC
Board officers
At your November meeting you appointed a three-person nominating committee to nominate
the Chair and Vice Chair for the 2025 Urbanized Area Policy Board. The committee was
comprised of Jon Green (Johnson County), Megan Alter (Iowa City), and Brian Wayson (North
Liberty). As Director, it has been my practice to review agenda items and major work program
activities with the Chair prior to each Board meeting. The Vice Chair assumes the duties of
the Chair when they are not available.
Currently the Chair is Louise From (Mayor, University Heights) and the Vice-Chair is Rod
Sullivan (Johnson County Board of Supervisors). Both the Chair and Vice-Chair have served in
these roles for one year; there is a two-year maximum term for these posts.
Please be prepared to receive the nominating committee’s verbal report and elect the Chair
and Vice-Chair for the 2025 MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board.
I will be available at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
Date: January 22, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Re: Agenda Item #3(b): Consider approval of the FY26 MPOJC Budget and Financial
Forecast
The proposed FY26 Budget and Financial Forecast is attached. The primary focus of MPOJC
continues to be fulfilling federal and state requirements necessary for MPOJC entities to receive
state and federal formula and discretionary funds; and to produce locally-generated traffic
studies, grant applications, and mapping services for MPOJC members. These activities, large
and small, provide information on which capital project design, funding, policy and programming
decisions are made.
MPOJC is organized as a division of the City of Iowa City Neighborhood and Development
Services (NDS) Department, and MPOJC staff also serve as NDS staff. Personnel costs are
determined by the collective bargaining agreement between Iowa City and the American
Federation of State and County Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
The overall budget reflects an approximate 2.38% increase from FY25 – primarily due to
increases in costs for staff benefits and wages. After accounting for staff time devoted solely to
City of Iowa City functions, MPOJC assessments are based on population of MPOJC entities.
Population figures for each entity are now based on 2020 decennial census figures – as
required per the MPO Bylaws. The budget also reflects the continued use of internal carryover
funds and Iowa DOT funding. As noted at your November 13 meeting, I anticipate using
$280,000 of Iowa DOT ‘Planning Funds’ in FY26. This is an increase from $230,000 used in
previous years as a result of increases provided by the new transportation legislation. This
increase ensures an appropriate balance of funds per DOT guidelines and defrays local funding
necessary for MPO operations.
As in years past, I remain concerned with long-term federal support for MPOJC and its member
entities. Ongoing federal budget discussions and the volatile nature of the Highway Trust Fund
require that we continue to track federal policy and how it affects transportation funding for
MPOs like ours. I intend to keep the Board apprised on federal funding issues as information
becomes available.
Please consider approval of the FY26 MPOJC Budget and Financial Forecast. With approval, I
will forward the assessment schedule to your staff.
I will be available at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
FY26 Budget and Financial Forecast
Adopted January 29, 2025 by the:
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
MPOJC Rural Policy Board
Date: January 29, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
Rural Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Re: FY26 MPOJC Budget and Financial Forecast
The Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (MPOJC) is the designated planning organization for Johnson County, Iowa.
Assistance is provided to member agencies in the program areas of transportation planning, administration, and small communities
planning assistance by virtue of a 28E agreement. The MPOJC Urbanized Area and Rural Policy Boards have authority over the policies
and work programs of the organization. The MPOJC website (www.mpojc.org) provides general information about the organization,
published technical reports, agendas, and meeting minutes of all public meetings.
MPOJC is organized administratively under the City of Iowa City and staff members are subject to all rights and benefits afforded to City
of Iowa City employees. Non-administrative staff are organized under the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees
(AFSCME). MPOJC staff also serve as staff in the City of Iowa City Neighborhood and Development Services Department. Because
MPOJC is organized as a division of the City of Iowa City, MPOJC follows City of Iowa City administrative and personnel policies. T his
overall structure allows for cost-effective sharing of expenditures and services.
The focus of MPOJC remains to fulfill federal and state requirements necessary for receiving both formula and discretionary state and
federal funding and to produce a wide variety of transportation studies for member agencies. These studies are intended to result in better
information on which to base local policy and project programming decisions.
The proposed FY26 MPOJC Budget and Financial Forecast reflects the program of services, policies, and staffing approved by the Board.
The overall FY26 budget reflects a 2.38% increase from the FY25 budget and is primarily due to adjustments in salaries and benefits.
The remaining budget is largely the same as previous years with respect to technical and professional services, travel and education, and
software. As in previous years, the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) is scheduled to contribute a large portion of the overall
MPO budget in FY26 – the anticipated Iowa DOT contribution is $280,000 which is the same as in FY25. MPOJC also carries reserve
funds to buffer against unexpected budget increases, or potential loss of funding. This continues to be important due to ongoing uncertainty
of federal funding.
MPOJC continues to employ 1-2 planning interns funded by the University of Iowa. The University of Iowa’s $23,817 assessment will be
used to fund intern expenses throughout the year. If this amount is not fully expended during the year, the balance becomes available for
other expenses.
As in previous budgets, the FY26 budget is explicit in showing additional assessments specific to Iowa City due to staff time devoted
solely to Iowa City specific duties. These duties include traffic engineering services, administration of the traffic calming program,
participation in planning committees, review of rezoning and subdivision applications, and other special projects.
The budget also reflects capital expenses for the replacement of traffic counters, traffic counting software, and GIS software to maintain
our mapping and visualization abilities. The traffic counters are used for traffic analyses and are subjected to extreme conditions as part
of the data collection program. It is important that there be a regular program of replacement for this equipment. For our traffic forecasting
capabilities, we are proposing to continue to upgrade our travel demand model software to be consistent with the Iowa DOT state-wide
travel demand model.
Following is a summary of the proposed Budget and Financial Forecast and FY26 assessments. Assessment figures use the 2020
decennial Census population data as required by the MPO Bylaws.
MPOJC Budget FY26 – FY28
MPOJC is designated by the Governor of the State of Iowa as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Iowa City Urbanized Area.
The MPOJC Transportation Planning Division must fulfill the state and federal requirements of the 3-C transportation planning process. This
process is required of all urbanized areas to maintain eligibility for grant programs and transportation operations funds of the United States
Department of Transportation and the Iowa Department of Transportation.
The Administration Division consists of a half-time Executive Director, and a .2 FTE Administrative Secretary. The Administration Division provides
oversight and support to the staff of MPOJC. The Executive Director supervises all MPOJC personnel, coordinates the budget process and the
preparation of division work programs.
As MPOJC staff also serve the City of Iowa City Neighborhood and Development Services Department, this budget reflects Iowa City specific
funding for 0.5 FTE Administration and 1.0 FTE Transportation Planner for Iowa City duties.
1Forecasts assume a 3% increase
2Student interns are funded entirely by the University of Iowa
FY25 FY26 FY27 FY28
Budgeted Proposed Forecast1 Forecast1
Salaries and Benefits $690,100 $699,200 $720,176 $741,781
Technical and Professional Services &
Maintenance, Travel and Education $68,219 $75,620 $77,889 $80,225
Operating Costs;including office
supplies,traffic counting and mapping
equipment/software
$8,700 $11,050 $11,382 $11,723
Subtotal $767,019 $785,870 $809,446 $833,729
University of Iowa Student Interns 2 $23,817 $23,817 $23,817 $23,817
TOTAL $790,836 $809,687 $833,263 $857,546
Expenditures
Summary of FY26 Assessments
Note: Figures do not include specific funding for Iowa City Neighborhood & Development Services, equivalent to 0.5 Administration Budget ($96,250) and 1.0 FTE Transportation Planning ($148,343).
Iowa City $121,144
Johnson County $35,430
Coralville $36,132
North Liberty $33,155
Tiffin $7,305
University Heights $1,988
SubTotal $235,154
Rural Communities
Solon $943
Lone Tree $424
Swisher $285
Oxford $226
Hills $270
Shueyville $228
SubTotal $2,375
Other Sources
Iowa DOT $280,000
Carryover $23,748
University of Iowa $23,817
SubTotal $327,565
Total $565,094
Urban Communities
MPOJC Assessment Explanation
1. Assessment for Rural entities is 1% of the overall MPO assessment. Rural Board communities utilize MPO planning services but are not eligible for MPO grant funds.
2. 0.5 FTE of Administration Division and 1.0 FTE of Transportation Planning Division are for Iowa City related functions and are not reflected in assessments to other communities.
3. This budget does not include East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) assessments.
4. Assessment figures may not reflect exact population percentages shown due to rounding.
Urban Entity Population Population %Total % of Total % of Total
Urban Board Assessment MPO Budget Assessments
Iowa City 74,828 51.52%$121,144 21.4%51.0%
Johnson County 21,884 15.07%$35,430 6.3%14.9%
Coralville 22,318 15.37%$36,132 6.4%15.2%
North Liberty 20,479 14.10%$33,155 5.9%14.0%
Tiffin 4,512 3.11%$7,305 1.3%3.1%
U-Heights 1,228 0.85%$1,988 0.4%0.8%
Subtotal 145,249 100.0%$235,154 41.6%99.0%
Rural Entity1 Population Population %Total % of Total % of Total
Rural Board Assessment Budget Assessments
Solon 3,018 39.68%$943 0.2%0.4%
Lone Tree 1,357 17.84%$424 0.1%0.2%
Swisher 914 12.02%$285 0.1%0.1%
Oxford 722 9.49%$226 0.0%0.1%
Hills 863 11.35%$270 0.0%0.1%
Shueyville 731 9.61%$228 0.0%0.1%
Subtotal 7,605 100.0%$2,375 0.4%1.0%
Total 152,854 100.0%$237,529 42.0%100.0%
Other Funding Sources
Iowa DOT $280,000 49.5%
Carryover $23,748 4.2%
University of Iowa $23,817 4.2%
MPO Total $565,094 100.00%
50% Admin for Iowa City NDS 2 $96,250
1.0 FTE for Iowa City NDS 2 $148,343
Total Budget $809,687
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
January 22, 2025
Urbanized Area Policy Board
Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Agenda Item #3(c): Consider approval of the FY26 Johnson County Assessments
for the East Central Iowa Council of Governments
MPOJC collects East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) dues for Johnson
County entities and forwards the funds to ECICOG. ECICOG assessments are calculated on a
per-capita basis for the counties ECICOG serves, and we in turn calculate a per -capita
assessment for each governmental entity within Johnson County. This budget reflects new
population figures for each entity based on 2020 census figures – as required per the MPO
Bylaws.
For FY26, ECICOG has proposed a 2% increase for all the counties it serves. ECICOG made a
modification to its funding structure for FY23 to include an additional planning assistance
assessment for all entities – except for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
entitlement cities. This change was made for all counites served by ECICOG. The effect of the
change was that Johnson County now pays an additional assessment for the rural county
population and University Heights is also assessed for its population. These entities historically
did not pay the additional assessment. All other non-entitlement communities paid the
assessment in the past. These changes are reflected in the attached assessment schedule.
ECICOG is the designated Regional Planning Association for east-central Iowa, including
Benton, Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Tama and Washington Counties. ECICOG provides
planning and grant administration services in the areas of community and economic
development, housing, transportation, and solid waste management. More information about
ECICOG can be found at www.ecicog.org. A member of ECICOG staff plans to attend
our January 29th meeting to discuss ECICOG services and answer any questions you have.
Please be prepared to consider approval of the FY26 East Central Iowa Council of
Governments Assessment Schedule (attached). With approval, I will forward this to your staff
for their records.
I will be at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
East Central Iowa Council of Governments
FY26 Assessment Schedule
Adopted January 29, 2025 by the:
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
MPOJC Rural Policy Board
Date: January 29, 2025
To: MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
MPOJC Rural Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Re: FY26 ECICOG Assessment Schedule
The East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) is the Regional Planning Association for east-central Iowa, including Benton,
Cedar, Iowa, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Tama and Washington Counties. ECICOG conducts planning and grant administration services in the
areas of community and economic development, housing, transportation, and solid waste management. ECICOG is governed by a policy
board including elected officials and citizen representatives.
In 2010, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County (MPOJC) Urbanized Area Policy Board directed that the schedule of
ECICOG assessments be considered separately from the annual MPOJC budget. ECICOG assesses counties on a per capita basis. In
Johnson County, governmental entities are in-turn assessed on a per-capita basis. ECICOG has proposed a 2% rate increase for all the
counties it serves for FY26. This assessment schedule reflects 2020 Census figures for each entity as required by the MPO Bylaws.
East Central Iowa Council of Governments FY26 – FY28 Assessments
FY25 FY26 FY271 FY281
Actual Proposed Forecast Forecast
$86,769 $88,504 $90,274 $92,080
Community Population %Assessment2 %Assessment2 %Assessment2
Iowa City 74,828 48.95%$32,795 ----37.06%$32,795
Johnson County (rural)21,884 14.32%$9,591 28.05%$6,033 17.65%$15,625
Coralville 22,318 14.60%$9,781 28.60%$6,153 18.00%$15,935
North Liberty 20,479 13.40%$8,975 26.25%$5,646 16.52%$14,622
Solon 3,018 1.97%$1,323 3.87%$832 2.43%$2,155
Tiffin 4,512 2.95%$1,978 5.78%$1,244 3.64%$3,221
Lone Tree 1,357 0.89%$595 1.74%$374 1.09%$969
University Heights 1,228 0.80%$538 1.57%$339 0.99%$877
Swisher 914 0.60%$401 1.17%$252 0.74%$653
Oxford 722 0.47%$316 0.93%$199 0.58%$515
Hills 863 0.56%$378 1.11%$238 0.70%$616
Shueyville 731 0.48%$320 0.94%$202 0.59%$522
152,854 100.0%$66,993 100.0%$21,512 100.0%$88,504
Assessments
Expenditures
Payment to ECICOG
Small Communities Planning Assistance Total FY26 ECICOG AssessmentGeneral Assessment
ECICOG is a multi-county regional planning agency which includes Johnson County . It is Region 10 in the state’s system of regional planning agencies.
Planning assistance is available through ECICOG to the small communities in Johnson County. All municipalities in Johnson Cou nty pay a population-based
general assessment for the overall support of ECICOG. An additional planning assistance assessment is made to all communities – except Iowa City which
is a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement city.
1Assumes a 2% increase.
2 Assessment figures may not equal exact percentages shown due to rounding.
Date: January 22, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston, Executive Director
Re: Agenda Item #3(d): Consider appointments to the East Central Iowa Council of
Governments Board of Directors
At your November meeting, we discussed the MPO entities responsible for appointments to the
East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) Board of Directors for 2025. Per our
bylaws, the entities responsible to appoint elected officials for 2025 included Johnson County,
Tiffin and Hills. The City of Hills has since indicated that they are unable to fill the appointment
and the opportunity was extended to Shueyville (who was next in the rotation per the adopted
bylaws). Shueyville also indicated they were unable to fill the appointment and the opportunity
was extended to University Heights (which accepted). In addition, the City of Tiffin agreed to
allow the City of North Liberty to fill their appointment. There is also one citizen appointment to
the Board of Directors for which the Johnson County Board of Supervisors appoints. The official
appointees from each entity include:
Johnson County: Jon Green (County Supervisor)
City of North Liberty: Chris Hoffman (Mayor)
City of University Heights: Nick Herbold (City Council)
Citizen Appointment: Allison Wells
Please be prepared to consider approval of the appointments to the ECICOG Board of
Directors.
I will be available at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
Date: January 22, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston; Executive Director
Re: Agenda Item #3(e): Discuss MPOJC Orientation opportunity for Board members
For new Board members, or current Board members who desire a refresher, I would like to
provide a short orientation explaining the designation and role of the MPO, services provided by
the MPO, and the structure of the MPO.
Please be prepared to indicate if you are interested and I will identify possible dates that will
work for a group orientation. I will be available at your January 29th meeting to answer any
questions you may have.
Date: January 23, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Hannah Neel, Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #4(a): Consider approval of Federal Transit Administration Section 5307
Transit Operating Formula funding apportionment for FY2024
Iowa DOT has indicated that MPOJC has a total of $4,954,667 available in FY2024 FTA Section
5307 operating assistance. This amount includes Small Transit Intensive Communities (STIC)
funding. Section 5307 funds can be used for transit operating and capital expenses.
For more than 10 years, the MPO used the same local formula to distribute these funds based on
prior year transit statistics from each of the three systems; 25% operating/maintenance costs,
25% locally determined income (LDI), 25% revenue miles, and 25% fare revenue. Iowa City
Transit requested a review of the formula prior to their agency offering a zero-fare system
beginning on August 1, 2023. In addition, the University of Iowa Cambus system does not charge
a fare and had never received credit for the fare revenue portion of the formula.
Although the percentage/allocation to each of the transit systems has fluctuated over time, a
review of past allocations showed that year-over-year changes were small. After discussions with
the transit managers, the consensus was to simply adopt a fixed percentage-based allocation
(starting with FY 2023 allocations and extending through FY 2027), based on a historic average,
and to review those percentages if/when there are major changes to any of the systems (e.g.
routes or operations costs). At the July 11, 2023 meeting, the MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy
Board approved the following fixed percentages to apportion FTA 5307 funds (Coralville 16.10%,
Iowa City 60.50%, and University of Iowa Cambus 23.40%).
The following table shows the approved FY2023 apportionment and the FY2024 proposed
funding apportionment amounts. Once approved, the MPO will complete and submit the required
annual FTA Section 5307 applications on behalf of each transit system.
Staff is requesting Board approval of the proposed apportionment of the FY2024 FTA Section
5307 operating funds. The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee unanimously
recommended approval of the apportionment at their January 21, 2025 meeting.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this information, please contact me at 319-356-
5235 or hneel@iowa-city.org.
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Approved FY2023 and Proposed FY2024 Section 5307 Operating Apportionments
System Multiplier*
FY2023 Total
Apportionment
FY2024 Proposed
Apportionment
Coralville 0.1610 $ 752,257 $ 797,701
Iowa City 0.6050 $ 2,826,803 $ 2,997,574
CAMBUS 0.2340 $ 1,093,342 $ 1,159,392
TOTAL 1.0000 $ 4,672,402 $ 4,954,667
*Multiplier is a fixed percentage based on the average of 10 years of historic multipliers. Historic
multipliers were calculated based on total operating costs, locally determined income, revenue
miles, and fare revenue.
Date: January 23, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Emily Bothell, Senior Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #4(b): Consider approval of MPOJC Surface Transportation Block
Grant, Transportation Alternatives Program, and Carbon Reduction Program grant
funding process
The MPOJC typically conducts our competitive grant process biennially and calendar year 2025
marks the next grant cycle year. This biennial process has historically reflected the desire of
both the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) and the Urbanized Area Policy
Board (UAPB) to allow for two years of funding to be allocated at once – thereby allowing
projects to receive larger funding awards.
MPOJC staff anticipates approximately $10 million in Surface Transportation Block Grant
(STBG) funding will be available for programming in FY2029-2030, approximately $2 million in
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funding will be available for programming in FY27-
30, and approximately $3 million in Carbon Reduction Program (CRP) funding will be available
for programming in FY2026-2030.
The 2025 grant process will follow this tentative timeline:
February 3, 2025 Notice of Funding Opportunity emailed to all jurisdictions.
February 24, 2025 STBG, TAP, and CRP applications due by 5:00 p.m.
March 5, 2025 Regional Trails and Bicycling Committee (RTBC) meeting to
review and discuss projects.
March 18, 2025 Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) meeting to review
projects and provide a recommendation on funding allocations to the
Urbanized Area Policy Board (UAPB).
March 26, 2025 UAPB meeting to review projects and approve funding allocations.
May 2025 TTAC and UAPB consider Draft FY2026-2029 Transportation
Improvement Program.
July 2025 Final FY2026-2029 Transportation Improvement Program presented to
the UAPB for adoption.
At their January 21st meeting, the TTAC unanimously recommended approval of the grant
funding process. Please be prepared to discuss the grant funding process at your January 29th
meeting.
Date: January 23, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Emily Bothell, Senior Associate Transportation Planner
Re: Agenda Item #4(c): Consider a Resolution approving participation in the Iowa DOT
pavement data collection program
The Institute for Transportation at Iowa State University developed the Iowa Pavement
Management Program (IPMP) to establish a comprehensive system for managing pavement
conditions across all roads in the state. The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) funds the
collection of pavement condition data every two years for Interstates, National Highway System
routes, and Iowa DOT routes, and every four years for local routes. However, local agencies,
such as Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) or individual jurisdictions, have the option
to purchase pavement condition data for local routes every four years, allowing them to maintain
a two-year data collection cycle.
Pavement condition data for all local routes in our metropolitan area was last collected in 2023
at a cost of $39,349, utilizing Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funding. The next
scheduled data collection, funded by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), is set for
2025. Today, we are requesting the Board to consider the attached resolution to participate in
the Iowa DOT pavement data collection program in 2027 as a Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO), with an estimated cost of approximately $45,000 to $60,000. The
Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) unanimously recommended participation
in the program at their meeting on January 21st. If the Board approves the resolution, Surface
Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funding will be utilized and data will be collected for non-
county local roads in the urbanized area.
I will be at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you may have.
Prepared by: Emily Bothell, Sr. Associate Transportation Planner, 410 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 356-5250
RESOLUTION NO. 2025- _____________
RESOLUTION APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN THE IOWA DOT
PAVEMENT DATA COLLECTION PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County is established under
chapter 28E of the code of Iowa; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County is the designated
metropolitan planning organization for the Iowa City Urbanized Area; and
WHEREAS, the Urbanized Area Policy Board of the Metropolitan Planning Organization for
the Johnson County Urbanized Area, following a recommendation from the Transportation
Technical Advisory Committee, has unanimously agreed to utilize Surface Transportation
Block Grant (STBG) funding for the pavement data collection program in 2027.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE URBANIZED AREA POLICY BOARD OF
THE METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION OF JOHNSON COUNTY, THAT:
The Metropolitan Planning Organization of Johnson County Urbanized Area Policy Board
approved using Surface Transportation Block Grant program funding for the collection of
pavement condition data in 2027 and to forward to the Iowa Department of Transportation.
It was moved by _________________ and seconded by __________________. The
resolution be adopted. The motion ______________ on a vote of _______ affirmative and
_______ negative. Considered on this _____ day of January 2025.
______________________________
Louise From, Chairperson
MPOJC Urbanized Area Policy Board
Attest: ________________________
MPOJC Executive Director
Date: January 22, 2025
To: Urbanized Area Policy Board
From: Kent Ralston; Executive Director
Re: Agenda Item #4(d): Update on the MPOJC FY26 Transportation Planning Work
Program and FY26-29 Transportation Improvement Program
FY26 Transportation Planning Work Program
The Transportation Planning Work Program is a document developed each year to identify
projects which will be addressed by MPOJC the following fiscal year. The Work Program is
developed in a coordinated effort involving the Transportation Technical Advisory Committee,
Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), and Urbanized Area Policy Board. Annual Work
Program items include all state and federally required planning processes and documentation,
ongoing and routine projects, and special projects requested by member entities.
We will begin soliciting for FY26 Work Program projects in February. If you have special
projects in mind for the Work Program, please feel free to discuss them with any MPO staff
person. The draft Work Program must be submitted to the Iowa DOT, Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) by April 1. The Urbanized
Area Policy Board will approve the final Work Program in May.
FY26-29 Transportation Improvement Program
The MPOJC Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the programming document for
federally funded transportation improvements within the Iowa City Urbanized Area. This
document includes federally funded transportation projects for all modes of transportation
including streets, highways, transit, and bicycle and pedestrian projects.
The importance of the TIP is that it formalizes the specific projects to receive federal funds, and
the year in which the projects receive funding. The Urbanized Area Policy Board considers
approval of the annual TIP after receiving a recommendation from the Transportation Technical
Advisory Committee (TTAC). This spring, the Urbanized Area Policy Board will allocate
approximately $10 million in Surface Transportation Block Grant funds, $2 million
in Transportation Alternatives Program funds and $3 million in Carbon Reduction Program
funds which will be reflected in the FY26-FY29 TIP.
In July, the Urbanized Area Policy Board will consider the FY2026-29 TIP for adoption. In
preparation for public review of the draft TIP, we will work with your staffs to ensure projects are
programmed in the appropriate fiscal year.
I will be at your January 29th meeting to answer any questions you have.
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