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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-08-19 Bd Comm minutesItem Number: 4.a. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT August 19, 2025 Airport Commission: June 12 Attachments: Airport Commission: June 12 MINUTES FINAL IOWA CITY AIRPORT COMMISSION JUNE 12, 2025 — 6:00 P.M. AIRPORT TERMINAL BUILDING Members Present: Hellecktra Orozco (Via zoom), Ryan Story, Judy Pfohl, Chris Lawrence Warren Bishop (arrived late) Members Absent: Staff Present: Michael Tharp, Jennifer Schwickerath Others Present: Adam Thompson RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None DETERMINE QUORUM A quorum was determined at 6:06 pm and Lawrence called the meeting to order. APPROVAL OF M I NOTES Pfohl stated that she had given Tharp a couple of items to correct. Pfohl moved to approve the minutes as amended by Pfohl, from May 8, 2025, seconded by Story. Motion carried 4-0. (Bishop Absent) PUBLIC COMMENT - None ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION 1 ACTION a. Airport Construction Projects: i. FAA grant projects - 1. Runway 12130 Displaced Threshold/Relocation — Tharp stated that there was no news there and they were just working on some close out documents for FAA. ii. Iowa DOT grant projects 1. T-hangar Building a. Iowa DOT Grant Application -- Tharp stated that the Governor did sign the funding legislation near the deadline for action. Tharp said they would now be waiting on the state to complete their award recommendation list. Tharp stated that because this project was a revenue generating project the FAA was requiring a statement that airside needs were met for the next three years. This means that the airport would not be eligible for discretionary funding for projects during that time. Tharp stated that the airport would still receive its Airport Commission June 12, 2025 Page 2 of 4 entitlement allocations, and that the upcoming runway maintenance project was secure with entitlement funding. Lawrence asked Tharp for a summary of upcoming projects. Tharp stated that the next project was the apron parking expansion which would require several years of entitlement buildup to help fund. 2. Wildlife Mitigation Study — Tharp stated that he met with the USDA team and discussed the project and expectations. Tharp stated they talked about the process and scheduling. Tharp stated that at the end of the project they would be able to use the report to help justify potential mitigation funding. Tharp described some of the questions they had and topics they discussed during the meeting. b. Airport "Operations" i. Budget —Tharp stated that he put the solar comparison sheet into the packet to share the numbers that he's seeing. Tharp stated that as far as the utility bills they are down 86% when compared to last year. Tharp also stated that they are building up a credit as well. Tharp stated that Sarah Gardner, the City Climate Action Coordinator was putting together a solar education program, and they wanted to use the Airport's solar array for tours. Tharp stated they were coming up on the end of the fiscal year. He stated they had a couple of bigger hangar expenses recently for cables and things as the summer generates more hangar door issues with repeated usage. ii. Management — Tharp stated that a tent was observed over in the airport grounds across the river that they had cleaned up a couple of years ago. Tharp stated that the police department had been notified and they were in the process of moving the person along. Tharp noted that he hoped they would move voluntarily. Tharp stated that the Braeden and he completed the hangar inspections. Tharp noted that there were some aircraft that he believed would trigger the non -airworthy status clauses in the upcoming leases. Members discussed what they could do if that remained the situation. Schwickerath noted that they could also not offer a new lease to the tenants. Members discussed their options and asked to have a discussion item on the agenda for the next meeting. iii. Events — Bishop arrived at 616pm. Tharp stated that the next movie night was coming up this weekend. Tharp stated that there was one movie in July but then August would be a busy month. 1. Summer of the Arts Movies (June 21, July 19, Aug 9) 2, Young Eagles (Aug 16th) 3. Pancake Breakfast (Aug 24) 4. Autocross (Sept 14, Oct 19) c. FBO 1 Flight Training Reports i. Jet Air — Tharp stated that Wolford was on his way back from a sales trip to the Chicago area. Tharp stated that he knew the guys were cleaning up the front and he met with Matt and Lucas, Jet Air's "airport" guy, and talked about upcoming projects that needed to be done like the maintenance list. Tharp also stated that he had planned to have the hangar door painted that Pfohl has commented on previously. Bishop stated that flight training was extremely busy. Lawrence asked about some running lights that might be out to which Tharp responded. Airport Commission June 12, 2025 Page 3of4 d. Commission Members' Reports —none e. Staff Report — Tharp stated there were a couple of upcoming vacation periods he'd like to have off. Tharp stated that when he did come back, he'd be out almost right away again on the 24th for the IPAA Board of Director's meeting. i. 4 States (FAA Central Region) Conference — Kansas City (August 20-22) ii. Vacation Dates (June 16-20; July 29-Aug 6) SET NEXT REGULAR MEETING — Set the next meeting for July 10, 2025. ADJOURN — Story moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:28pm. Seconded by Bishop. Motion carried 5-0. CHAIRPERSON DATE Airport Commission June 12, 2025 Page 4 of 4 Airport Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-2025 TERM 0 0 0 D� 0 C9 O N 0 1 0 N 0 w 0 0 U1 0 W C0 N � !, N W W W 0 00 N_ NAME EXP. � 4- � � � � � cNn � Cn � Cn � cN 1 M r"s Warren 06/30/26 X X X X X X X X X X X O/E XIE Bishop Christopher 06/30/25 O/E O/E X X O/E X X X O/E X X X X Lawrence Hellecktra 06/30128 X X O/E X OIE X X O/E O/E X O/E X X Orozco Judy Pfohl 06/30/26 X X X X X X X O/E X X X X X Ryan Story 06/30/27 X O/E X X X X X X X X X X X Key: X = Present X/E = Present for Part of Meeting 0 = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = Not a member at this time XIS = Present for subcommittee meeting O/S = Absent, not a member of the subcommittee Item Number: 4.b. I, CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT August 19, 2025 Climate Action Commission: June 2 Attachments: Climate Action Commission: June 2 MINUTES IOWA CITY CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION JUNE 2 — 4:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING EMMA J. HARVAT HALL FINAL MEMBERS PRESENT: Michael Anderson, Jamie Gade, Ben Grimm, Zach Haralson, Nadja Krylov, Wim Murray, Brinda Shetty, Michelle Sillman, Robert Traer MEMBERS ABSENT: Emma Bork, Angie Smith STAFF PRESENT: Geoff Fruin, Sarah Gardner, Diane Platte, Anne Russett OTHERS PRESENT: Confluence staff: Christopher Shires, Emily Rizvic, Korinne Sidebottom CALL TO ORDER: Gade called the meeting to order at 4:00. APPROVAL OF MAY 5. 2025 MINUTES: Haralson moved to approve the minutes, Anderson seconded, and the motion carried. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Action items from last meeting (staff): • Commissioners were asked to continue thinking about prioritization scoring. Events: • Cooling stations at Party in the Parks, 6:30-8 p.m. - June 12 Happy Hollow, June 26 Scott Park • Other events in the community (commissioners) o Shetty reported UI Office of Sustainability is hosting BioBlitz on Saturday, July 12. • Update on Comprehensive Plan efforts for Iowa City o Public Visioning Workshops scheduled for 5:30-7 p.m. on June 2 (Dream City), June 10 (NCJC Pheasant Ridge), June 16 (Iowa City Public Library), June 30 (St. Patrick Church), and July 8 (Ferguson Building) NEW BUSINESS: Sillman joined the meeting. Comprehensive Plan Presentation: Anne Russett and Christopher Shires • Shires presented on Confluence's work on the Comprehensive Plan update. The project is currently in Phase 2 of 5 and the process will be ongoing through next May. Information is available on project website: https://engage.thinkconfluence.com/iowa-city-comprehensive- plan • Shires explained the long-range master plans look at potential development patterns 20-, 30-, 40 years into the future. It is not law but serves as a guiding policy document. These plans generally have a 10-year shelf life and typically include a lot of maps and graphics, including Climate Action Commission June 2025 Page 2 of 5 Future Land Use Plan — where city should or should not grow. Future land use map was last adopted in 2013. Grimm joined the meeting. • Shires shared highlights from the community Profile o Iowa City has seen healthy, steady population growth, which is expected to continue. o Population projections through 2050 average out to about 94,725. Population by age (2023): Younger adults (20-44) make up 48.5%. Household incomes vary widely. o Housing will likely be a major topic for this Comprehensive Plan. Based on population projection, an average of 347-364 new housing units will be needed each year. o Employment by sector: Health care and social assistance is the biggest category. Total estimated jobs in Iowa City = 56,203. Inflow jobs = 38,374. Live and work within Iowa City = 17,829. Live in Iowa City but work elsewhere = 13,890. o Krylov asked if wages are tracked and also if data about the culture of new population is available. Shires noted some data is unavailable. o Traer asked if nature/environment data is part of the plan, i.e. nonhuman residents of the City. Shires answered knowing of no data source to track animals. o Grimm asked if the growth of North Liberty and Coralville are taken into account in Iowa City's plan. Shires explained that some aspects of housing and population are done on a regional level, so Tiffin for example is included. Grimm asked if the data for the Community Profile was centered on Iowa City. Shire affirmed it is, while economic analysis and housing analysis is more regional. o Shetty asked if current housing build outs are known. Russett affirmed that City recently published a building permit analysis: on website, under the Planning and Zonings page, the report is available. Russett noted that housing availability is tight and is tightening. Building in Iowa City has not recovered from COVID. • Shires noted Emerging Trends: o Climate resiliency and conservation o New technologies: Al, IT modernization o Infrastructure and Transportation o Housing: lack of supply, affordability o Economic and retail shifts: COVID impact o Future of work: remote work, decreased demand for office space. Data is still lagging. o Inclusive design: such as in playgrounds and gathering spaces • Shires asked commissioners to identify what other emerging trends or issues exist o Krylov mentioned climate refugees — the need to move away from the coasts and above the 42nd parallel. A related concern is buildings' vulnerability to bigger storms. o Traer noted that "land use" is a human -centric term that excludes nonhuman life. o Haralson suggested thinking about the grid and the built environment, how those interact. Shires affirmed local generation (rooftop solar) and storage are impactful. o Gade asked how potential changes in legislation, like tax code, are a part of the plan. Shires noted that the comprehensive plan needs to remain a living document that can adapt, and it is always easier to react to change if there is a plan to start with. 2 Climate Action Commission June 2025 Page 3 of 5 o Grimm noted that re -naturalizing (adding native plants) has been undertaken in the past in reaction to emerging challenges; a more proactive design process would serve cities well. • Shires asked commissioners to identify top priorities for Iowa City o Gade mentioned housing, specifically affordable housing. o Haralson said the plan has to be net zero by 2050. o Krylov underscored the importance of accurately predicting population growth o Grimm identified resilience as a priority, in multiple meanings (environmental, financial, changes in political environment). o Anderson noted the importance of having sustainability "baked in" to development. Shires noted that in -fill and densification of downtown is a sustainable approach to growth and development. • Shires asked commissioners to identify how the comprehensive plan can support the work of the Climate Action Commission o Traer suggested measuring human impact on nature is valuable in trying to protecting nature. o Haralson asked if Confluence has looked at the Climate Action Plan for the City and recommended incorporating parts of the Climate Action Plan into the Comprehensive Plan. Shires affirmed the Confluence team had looked at the most recent plan. o Krylov suggested being proactive about supporting the kinds of businesses that would be good for Iowa City. In discussing Al and its impact on the climate, Shires explained how Iowa is well -suited for data centers, as Iowa has inexpensive electricity and available water. Some communities want data centers for the economic benefit and some communities are wary of their impact on the grid and on water. o Haralson mentioned walkability (15-minute city) as a priority for the CAC. Shires referenced how corners of Minneapolis are commercial and support the neighborhood around them. o Sillman asked if the opportunity is being embraced to teach residents what is already going on in the city. Shires described his role as mostly listening, but occasions do arise to speak on what the city has done / is doing. • Upcoming: o Public Workshops o Pop-up Events at Party in the Park • Project website is interactive. All are invited to visit it at https://engage.thinkconfluence.com/iowa-city-comprehensive-plan Air Quality Sampling Report • Gardner offered an update on the findings of the EPA on air quality in central and southeastern Iowa City, as summarized by the memo in the agenda packet. • Krylov asked if the level was compared to European standards, which are often different from US standards. Gardner offered to investigate. • Gade noted the report relied upon CDC levels, which instills confidence. 3 Climate Action Commission June 2025 Page 4 of 5 nl n RI ICINFCC- Prioritization scoring of Accelerating Iowa City's Climate Actions Plan relating to BCP-1 • Gardner offered explanations and invited commissioners to ask questions about each of the 4 actions listed in the Buildings — City Policy section and each of the 4 actions listed in the Buildings — Public Projects section. o Krylov asked for more information about BPP-1. Gardner gave some background into MidAmerican's investment in the proposed Waterworks Park solar array, which was voted down by City Council in 2020. Krylov, Anderson, and Haralson asked if their rankings of BPP-1 could be accompanied by explanatory notes and Gardner affirmed annotations were welcome. o Commissioners noted the possibility for attaching a measurable objective to municipal buildings' efficiency. • Commissioners scored the items in the Buildings — City Policy and Buildings — Public Projects sections. Gardner asked commissioners to leave their scoresheets at their place to be collected. At the August meeting, top priority items will be identified and commissioners will discuss attaching measurable objectives. PUBLIC COMMENT OF ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA: • None RECAP: Confirmation of next meeting time and location: • Monday, August 4, 4-5:30 p.m. Emma J. Harvat Hall Actionable items for commission and staff: • none ADJOURNMENT: Anderson moved to adjourn, Shetty seconded, and the motion carried. Meeting adjourned 5:29 4 Climate Action Commission June 2025 Page 5 of 5 CLIMATE ACTION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-25 Ql CO l0 0O N F- N F- N W A Ul Ql NAME TERM EXP. W N U, N c0 N v N F\-� - N N Ql N W N W N V N V, N N N A A A A A A cn cn cn cn cn cn Michael 12/31/2025 X O/ X X X X X X O/E X X X Anderson E Emma Bork 12/31/2026 O/E X X X X O/E Michal Eynon- 12/31/2024 X O/ X X X X Lynch E John Fraser 12/31/2024 X X X X O/E O/E Jamie Gade 12/31/2025 X X O/E X O/E X X X X O/E X X Ben Grimm 10/31/2026 O/E O/ X X X X X O/E X O/E O/E X E Zach Haralson 12/31/2025 O/E X O/E X X X X X X X X X Nadja Krylov 12/31/2026 X O/E X X X X Wim Murray MiclAmerican X X X X X O/E X O/E X X O/E X Rep Michelle Sillman 12/31/20025 X X X O/E X X X X X X X X Brinda Shetty UI Rep X O/ X X X X X X X X X X E Angie Smith 12/31/2025 X X X O/E X X X X O/E X X O/E Gabe Sturdevant 12/31/2024 O/E X X X O/E X Robert Traer 12/31/2026 X X X X X X KEY: X = Present 0 = Absent 0/E = Absent/Excused NM= No Meeting * No longer on Commission Item Number: 4.c. a CITY OF IOWA CITY "QF T-4 COUNCIL ACTION REPORT August 19, 2025 Planning & Zoning Commission: July 16 [See Recommendations] Attachments: Planning & Zoning Commission: July 16 [See Recommendations] r ��_..® CITY OF IOWA CITY MEMORANDUM Date: August 7, 2025 To: Mayor and City Council From: Anne Russett, Senior Planner Re: Recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission At its July 16, 2025 meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission have the following recommendation to the City Council: By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of CPA25-0001, a change to the future land use designation of the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan for approximately 57 acres of property located south of I-80 and east of North Dodge Street from Office Research Development Centers to General Commercial, Mixed Use, and Public/Private Open Space. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ24-0013, a request to rezone approximately 22.5 acres of land along North Dubuque Road east of North Scott Boulevard to Mixed Use (MU) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings demonstrating that North Dubuque Road between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Drive meets City standards for a 28-foot wide street with curb and gutter and sidewalks. Drawings shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of a building permit. 3. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. 4. Prior to site plan approval, any commercial use that abuts residential zones must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. The landscaping plan shall meet the S3 standards and include a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees that will be at least 30' tall upon maturity. 5. Commercial development shall require full cut off light fixtures (i.e. no light shall be emitted above 90 degrees). By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0008, a request to rezone approximately 33.64 acres of land along North Dodge Street and south of 1-80 to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being August 7, 2025 Page 2 rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. If sewage from the area being rezoned will be conveyed to the Highlander Lift Station, a flow study shall be prepared for the Highlander Lift Station. 3. Prior to site plan approval, commercial areas along N. Dodge St that abut either North Dodge Street or land that is zoned residential must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located along North Dodge Street, which is an important gateway to the City, as well as in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. 4. Prior to issuance of a building permit, installation of 10' wide sidewalk on the eastern/southern portion of the North Dodge Street right-of-way between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 5. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for a southbound left - turn lane and northbound right -turn lane on North Dodge Street at ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 6. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for the 4th leg of the ACT Circle / North Dodge Street intersection subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 7. Any request for an additional driveway access to the subject property north of the North Dodge Street/ACT Circle intersection shall be limited to a right-in/right-out access only. This access requires review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0009, an application to rezone approximately 37.9 acres of land at 2510 N. Dodge Street from Research Development Park (RDP) zone to Intensive Commercial (CI-1) zone. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends that Title 14 zoning be amended, as illustrated in attachment one with two revisions related to the map and the dedication cap language, to update the requirements related to Neighborhood Open Space dedication, to continue implementing the City's goal of providing adequate open space for the City's residents. Additional action (check one) No further action needed Board or Commission is requesting Council direction _X_ Agenda item will be prepared by staff for Council action MINUTES FINAL PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION J U LY 16, 2025 — 6:00 PM — FORMAL MEETING E M M A J. HARVAT HALL, CITY HALL MEMBERS PRESENT: James Davies, Steve Miller, Scott Quellhorst, Billie Townsend, Chad Wade MEMBERS ABSENT: Kaleb Beining, Maggie Elliott STAFF PRESENT: Liz Craig, Anne Russett, Rachel Schaefer OTHERS PRESENT: Steve Long, Cady Gerlach, Ed O'Connor RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of CPA25-0001, a change to the future land use designation of the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan for approximately 57 acres of property located south of I-80 and east of North Dodge Street from Office Research Development Centers to General Commercial, Mixed Use, and Public/Private Open Space. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ24-0013, a request to rezone approximately 22.5 acres of land along North Dubuque Road east of North Scott Boulevard to Mixed Use (MU) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings demonstrating that North Dubuque Road between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Drive meets City standards for a 28-foot wide street with curb and gutter and sidewalks. Drawings shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of a building permit. 3. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. 4. Prior to site plan approval, any commercial use that abuts residential zones must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. The landscaping plan shall meet the S3 standards and include a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees that will be at least 30' tall upon maturity. 5. Commercial development shall require full cut off light fixtures (i.e. no light shall be emitted above 90 degrees). By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0008, a request to rezone approximately 33.64 acres of land along North Dodge Street and south of 1-80 to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 2 of 22 Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. If sewage from the area being rezoned will be conveyed to the Highlander Lift Station, a flow study shall be prepared for the Highlander Lift Station. 3. Prior to site plan approval, commercial areas along N. Dodge St that abut either North Dodge Street or land that is zoned residential must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located along North Dodge Street, which is an important gateway to the City, as well as in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. 4. Prior to issuance of a building permit, installation of 10' wide sidewalk on the eastern/southern portion of the North Dodge Street right-of-way between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 5. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for a southbound left -turn lane and northbound right -turn lane on North Dodge Street at ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 6. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for the 4th leg of the ACT Circle / North Dodge Street intersection subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 7. Any request for an additional driveway access to the subject property north of the North Dodge Street/ACT Circle intersection shall be limited to a right-in/right-out access only. This access requires review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends approval of REZ25-0009, an application to rezone approximately 37.9 acres of land at 2510 N. Dodge Street from Research Development Park (RDP) zone to Intensive Commercial (CI-1) zone. By a vote of 5-0 the Commission recommends that Title 14 zoning be amended, as illustrated in attachment one with two revisions related to the map and the dedication cap language, to update the requirements related to Neighborhood Open Space dedication, to continue implementing the City's goal of providing adequate open space for the City's residents. CALL TO ORDER: Quellhorst called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA: None. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ITEMS: CASE NO. CPA25-0001: Location: South of 1-80 and east of N. Dodge Street Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 3 of 22 A public hearing to consider an amendment to change the Comprehensive Plan future land use map from Office Research Development Center to General Commercial, Mixed Use, and Public/Private Open Space for approximately 57 acres of property. Russett began the staff report showing an aerial map the subject property and also a map that shows the zoning of the property which is a mix of Research Park, Single Family, and Rural Residential. She explained this is the former ACT property that was recently purchased by JNB Iowa City, LLC. and there are several items on the agenda that are all interrelated with this property. This item, the Comprehensive Plan Amendment, needs to be considered before the subsequent rezoning applications are considered. The amendment is to the Future Land Use Map to change these 57 acres of property from Office Research Development Center to General Commercial, Mixed Use and a bit of open space. After the Amendment is approved then there are two rezoning requests. One is for land that is off North Dubuque Road, 22.5 acres, and that request is a rezoning to the Mixed Use zone to align with the requested Future Land Use Map Amendment to Mixed Use. The other rezoning is for 33 acres of land to the east of North Dodge Street, which is a request to change the zoning from Office Research Park to Community Commercial. Russett noted the applicant did hold a good neighbor meeting on June 10 on all three of these applications. She shared a map that shows the proposed amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. Quellhorst asked why this is a Comprehensive Plan change and not just a rezoning. Russett explained because the direction in the Comprehensive Plan is that this area should be for Office Research and Office Parks but since they want to do something different they need to amend the Plan so that the rezonings would then align with the Comprehensive Plan. Without the amendment staff can't make a positive recommendation for the rezonings. Russett explained when they look at Comprehensive Plan Amendments there are two approval criteria. The first is that circumstances have changed, or additional information or factors have come to light such that the amendment is in the public interest. The second criteria is that the proposed amendment will be compatible with other policies or provisions of the Comprehensive Plan. In terms of the first criteria, circumstances have changed, the IC 2030 Plan was adopted in 2013 and at that time identified this area as appropriate for Office Research Park. At that time, the former ACT campus was in use and therefore the Comprehensive Plan aligned with the existing land use of Office Research Park. Since the Comprehensive Plan was adopted interest in offices locating within downtown became more popular and a lot of offices were leaving office research parks and relocating downtown. Additionally, there was the pandemic and that caused multiple vacancies in office buildings. ACT formerly employed around 1200 people on their campus and in their buildings (that was about 350,000 square feet). Currently they have 75 employees on site in those 54,000 acres square feet. Russett stated there has been a lot that has changed since the Comprehensive Plan was originally adopted as well such as the City has a real need for housing and this change in the Comprehensive Plan can help support that increase in supply of housing. The second criteria is that the amendment is compatible with other policies within the Comprehensive Plan. Russett reiterated when the Plan was adopted ACT was fully operational. Also, the Plan recognizes that the amount of Office Research Park identified may be unrealistic, Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 4 of 22 and since the adoption of the Plan the likelihood of more office research parks in this area has further declined. Not only has the ACT campus closed, but Pearson's has also closed. In addition, there are a variety of land use goals and strategies that this amendment would align with such as encouraging compact and efficient development, identifying areas that are appropriate for infill planning for commercial development, and then in terms of housing goals it is encouraging a diversity of housing options throughout the community, identifying and supporting infill development and concentrating new development in areas that's contiguous to existing neighborhoods. Therefore, staff does find that this proposal meets those two criteria. Staff recommends approval of CPA25-0001, a change to the future land use designation of the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan for approximately 57 acres of property located south of 1-80 and east of North Dodge Street from Office Research Development Centers to General Commercial, Mixed Use, and Public/Private Open Space. In terms of next steps, staff will be asking City Council to set a public hearing after a recommendation from the Commission. Townsend noted on the letter from Shive Hattery, it mentioned it would also function as a neighborhood center, what does that mean, are they going to have something for children or parks or what. Russett explained at this point, there's no specific development proposed, they're just requesting for a change in the policy direction of the Comprehensive Plan. The applicant is likely to share more details on their vision. Townsend noted the section that encourage a reasonable level of housing diversity, what does that actually mean. Russett again noted the applicant can address that. Quellhorst opened the public hearing. Steve Long (Salida Partners) is part of the ownership group and stated they are excited about the opportunity to reinvigorate the once full campus. He was before this Commission a few months ago when they rezoned the central part of the campus to Mixed Use and they've already started working with an architect to convert some of those buildings into 55 plus senior housing. Now they're excited to work on the east and south but the Commission will be seeing a lot of him over the next few years as there's 400 acres and right now they've only worked on about 100. Long noted they are waiting to work with the City and the City staff and the community as the City updates its Comprehensive Plan for the next 10 years. He stated their intention here today is to do what is allowed by the City Code and the market they are working with, which is Mixed Use. They've had some interested parties or entities that want to be compatible to what's in the immediate area and their focus is senior housing experiences and mixed use land uses, which is part of the land that was rezoned a few months ago. Since then, they've applied for a low income housing tax credit (LIHTC senior housing) and were approved. There will be 44 units on the corner of Scott Boulevard and 1 st Avenue and for the proposed mixed use they would like to have something similar. Long stated having the mixed use designation allows them to have a mix of uses and something that would be focused on is the immediate neighborhoods and the residents they anticipate having in the hundreds of residents living on the current campus in the next few years. For the commercial portion he stated they've had a lot of interest, he can't give specifics, but it would be community focused uses and because it's on the intersection of the highway and the interstate, focused on those uses. Long also noted they will follow the City's Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 5 of 22 Plan and plan to put a stop light on that corner of ACT Circle and Dodge Street as well. Davies asked about the small amount of public/private open space and how they envision that being tied to the existing infrastructure and natural setting in the area. Long stated they are envisioning trail connections or connecting to existing infrastructure. He added it's part of the buffer and when they sit down with the site plan and work with City staff they will have a better handle. He acknowledged they're going to be following the Sensitive Areas Ordinance as there's a tremendous amount of woodlands and ponds and wildlife corridors that they want to protect and keep. Long also stated he has already had their facilities crew mow the trails to encourage residents to use the trails. Townsend noted concerns about the traffic going around that circle, 1 st Avenue to Scott Boulevard, there is traffic all the time there right now and there's only two exits/entrances to the ACT campus. Long confirmed there are currently only two exits/entrances to the ACT campus and they're both off of that circle however there will be a new entrance off of North Dodge Street in the next year. Cady Gerlach (Vice President of Programs, Greater Iowa City, Inc, and Executive Director of Better Together 2030) is here tonight to voice support for the proposed amendment to the Comprehensive Plan and the redevelopment of the former ACT campus and surrounding 57 acres. This proposal reflects the kind of forward thinking land use the region needs, it repurposes an underutilized employment center, it aligns with changing market realities around office space, post pandemic work patterns and community realities and growth. The blend of general, commercial, mixed use and public/private open space directly supports the community's need for more diverse housing options, accessible services and walkable neighborhoods. At Greater Iowa City, Inc, they advocate for efficient, connected development that strengthens the economic foundation and improves quality of life. This proposal checks those boxes by leveraging existing infrastructure and arterial roadways for future growth, creating space for a mix of commercial and residential development that serves both neighbors and regional commuters, preserves environmentally sensitive areas while enhancing pedestrian and bike access and supports compact sustainable development patterns that help reduce barriers to housing and retail access. As outlined in both the IC 2030 Comprehensive Plan and regional economic goals Gerlach stated this site is well positioned to evolve into a neighborhood scale hub that will blend commerce, housing and natural features while contributing meaningfully to the vitality of Iowa City's north side. They respectfully urge the Commission's recommendation of approval and thank them for their continued leadership in advancing a more connected, inclusive and resilient Iowa City. Gerlach also noted that rather than speaking multiple times this evening, her comments should be registered for CPA25-0001, REZ24-0013 and REZ25-0008. Quellhorst closed the public hearing. Townsend moved to recommend approval of CPA25-0001, a change to the future land use designation of the IC2030 Comprehensive Plan for approximately 57 acres of property located south of 1-80 and east of North Dodge Street from Office Research Development Centers to General Commercial, Mixed Use, and Public/Private Open Space. Miller seconded the motion. Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 6 of 22 Townsend stated she was glad to that large area put to use. Wade is also glad to see the reuse and Comprehensive Plan update to match it and will look forward to this being added as well in a new Plan that's in progress next year. Davies stated he is fully in support of a more flexible use and thinks it's really encouraging to see. He will be watching very closely just to see how the natural setting is preserved and how connectivity of the bike trails and pedestrian access is maintained as that's an important feature of that area. Quellhorst agrees they're changing times as the demand for office spaces is down so it's important that they're flexible as a community and make productive use of the property that they have. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. REZONING ITEMS: CASE NO. REZ24-0013: Location: East of N. Scott Blvd on N. Dubuque Rd An application for a rezoning of approximately 22.5 acres of land from Rural Residential (RR- 1) zone, Low Density Single -Family Residential (RS-5) zone, RS-5 with a Planned Development Overlay, Research Development Park (RDP) zone, and Interim Development Single -Family Residential (ID-RS) zone to Mixed Use (MU) zone. Russett explained this is one of two rezonings that are connected to the Comprehensive Plan Amendment that just passed. This one is for 22.5 acres on North Dubuque Road, land colloquially known as Gatens Farm. The land just to the west is the Iowa City Community School District property, and the land to the north is vacant and heavily wooded, as is the area to the south. Russett shared the current zoning noting there are four or five different zoning designations currently, Rural Residential, Low Density Single Family, Low Density Single Family with a Planned Development Overlay, Research Development Park and Interim Development Single Family. Due to the five different zoning designations there's no consistency in terms of what could be developed in any type of development pattern for this land and the request is to zone it all Mixed Use, which would allow both residential and non-residential uses that would include things like assisted group living, multifamily, office, retail, restaurants and such. Russett stated the two criteria that staff looks at for rezoning is consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and compatibility with the neighborhood. Russett explained with the proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment that was just voted on, this rezoning would directly align with that request to amend the Future Land Use Map. The Comprehensive Plan also has a variety of goals and strategies that align with this request, encouraging compact efficient development, planning for commercial development, discouraging linear strip commercial development, and providing for appropriate transitions. Russett noted the buffer areas come into play in encouraging a diversity of housing options which this zone would do. In terms of compatibility with the neighborhood, similar to the hodgepodge of zoning Russett Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 7 of 22 noted there's a variety of different land uses, there is some single family to the north along North Dodge Street, there's the former ACT campus to the east and the School District office and to the southeast is multifamily with Oaknoll East. Staff is recommending a couple of conditions to ensure compatibility. One is that any commercial development that abuts residential zones incorporate a 30 foot landscaped buffer to provide additional separation between those residential uses and the commercial uses. Additionally required would be full cut off light fixtures for any commercial development. In terms of transportation, access and utilities, the City did request a traffic study to correspond with this proposed rezoning. The traffic study found that the North Scott Boulevard and North Dubuque Road intersection will not provide an acceptable level of service through 2047, really limited to accessing Scooters Coffee Shop, and this congestion is anticipated regardless of the proposed rezoning and that congestion is limited to a small period during the day (am peak hours). Russett stated the City Engineer has reviewed the traffic study and concurs with the findings. In regard to sanitary sewer, the City would like more information on the existing sanitary sewer in the area and its capacity and therefore have several conditions that they're recommending. One is approval of a preliminary and final plat, since this area has never been subdivided and the subdivision process will lay out the street network, lots and blocks. Staff also wants to ensure that North Dubuque Road meets City standards for a 28 foot wide street with curb and gutter and sidewalks. And lastly, a flow study in relationship to the sanitary sewer system will need to be completed. Specifically, for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. The applicant will work with the Public Works Department to study that area. Staff recommends approval of REZ24-0013, a request to rezone approximately 22.5 acres of land along North Dubuque Road east of North Scott Boulevard to Mixed Use (MU) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings demonstrating that North Dubuque Road between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Drive meets City standards for a 28-foot wide street with curb and gutter and sidewalks. Drawings shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of a building permit. 3. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. 4. Prior to site plan approval, any commercial use that abuts residential zones must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. The landscaping plan shall meet the S3 standards and include a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees that will be at least 30' tall upon maturity. 5. Commercial development shall require full cut off light fixtures (i.e. no light shall be emitted above 90 degrees). Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 8 of 22 In terms of next steps, City Council will set a public hearing and consider the rezonings at future meetings. Quellhorst asked why staff doesn't believe that the existing zoning code is sufficient for separation between property types and why the added 30' buffer is necessary. Russett explained because of the existing single family to the north is Rural Residential which are large lot single family and typically they'd see a transition to higher density housing and then commercial development, but these large single family lots will be next to Mixed Use which could be multifamily, retail, or restaurants so this is adding a little bit of extra space to provide more of a transition. Townsend noted concern about the traffic and if they're going to have additional entrances onto North Scott Boulevard and Dubuque Road. Russett replied there will be no access to this property from North Dodge Street because this particular rezoning does not border North Dodge Street. In the next rezoning that is a consideration they will discuss. Townsend stated the circle there at Scott Boulevard and 1 st Avenue has a lot of traffic there and she just wants to make sure that they aren't making it worse for those that have to travel it every day. Wade asked about the traffic study level of service, at North Scott Boulevard and North Dubuque Road is the requirement to improve North Dubuque Road solving the level of service or is it more about that whole intersection with Scott Boulevard and Scooters and everything at that end. Russett stated the level of service issue is related to Scooters and regardless the improvements to North Dubuque Road will not address that, and that's going to be an issue even without this rezoning, so that becomes a City item. What staff is requesting here is that the street be upgraded so it has curb and gutter and sidewalk and meets the standards for a city street. Wade asked if there will be another pedestrian crossing at Hickory Heights or will it all funnel to Dubuque Road. Russett stated in terms of pedestrian crossings there's the controlled intersection at North Dodge Street and Scott Boulevard but there's no sidewalk on the southern portion, which will be discussed in the next rezoning. There's also a median on North Scott Boulevard that provides a pedestrian refuge for anyone crossing from the west side of North Scott to the east side but there isn't any pedestrian crossing down at Hickory Heights. Miller noted regarding the landscape buffer it makes sense to have it next to the single family, he is curious is it a standard to have it between CC-2 and Mixed Use. Russett stated there probably will not be a buffer there as they are both commercial zones. Wade asked if the core campus was rezoned to Mixed Use. Russett confirmed that was correct it was rezoned from Office Research Park to Mixed Use. Quellhorst opened the public hearing. Seeing no public comments, Quellhorst closed the public hearing. Miller moved to recommend approval of REZ24-0013, a request to rezone approximately 22.5 acres of land along North Dubuque Road east of North Scott Boulevard to Mixed Use (MU) zone subject to the following conditions: Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 9 of 22 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings demonstrating that North Dubuque Road between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Drive meets City standards for a 28-foot wide street with curb and gutter and sidewalks. Drawings shall be reviewed and approved by the City Engineer. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of a building permit. 3. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. 4. Prior to site plan approval, any commercial use that abuts residential zones must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. The landscaping plan shall meet the S3 standards and include a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees that will be at least 30' tall upon maturity. 5. Commercial development shall require full cut off light fixtures (i.e. no light shall be emitted above 90 degrees). Wade seconded the motion. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. CASE NO. REZ25-0008: Location: East of N. Dodge St. and South of 1-80 An application for a rezoning of approximately 33.64 acres of land from Office Research Park (ORP) zone to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone. Russett stated this is the last of the three related items for the former ACT campus. This is a request to rezone about 34 acres to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone. She shared an aerial map of the proposed rezoning noting it includes some of the existing buildings on the former ACT campus and also includes some land that abuts 1-80 to the north. Russett next reviewed the existing intersection for the site, there's currently three legs but ACT Circle that does not extend into the site which she will discuss shortly. The current zoning designation is Office Research Park which is intended to allow large scale offices and research firms. The Community Commercial zone allows a variety of both residential and non-residential uses, it allows upper floor multifamily as a provisional use and allows restaurants, retail, office and even some more intensive commercial uses such as very low scale manufacturing would be allowed, and vehicle repair. Russett stated again there are the two criteria to be reviewed, first is consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and again, with the request of changing the Future Land Use Map to General Commercial this rezoning request would directly align with the Comprehensive Plan's Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 10 of 22 Future Land Use Map and encourages compact and efficient development, diversity of housing options, planning for commercial development and providing for some appropriate transitions. In addition in terms of the economic development goals of the Comprehensive Plan this rezoning could help increase and diversify the property tax base, provide an environment that supports quality employment, encourage a healthy mix of both independent and national businesses, improving the environmental and economic health of the community. In terms of transportation, the City is looking at ways to encourage all modes of transportation, especially off of the arterial streets, and having sidewalks and bike connections is recommended. In terms of compatibility with the existing neighborhood Russett noted the property is just a portion of the former ACT campus, the remainder of the campus is to the east. Staff is recommending a couple of conditions to ensure compatibility, one, recommending that 30' landscape buffer between commercial uses along North Dodge Street and any commercial development on this site. The North Dodge Street strip should be landscaped with a mix of plantings that would be approved by the City Forester. Russett stated this is a gateway to the community which is why staff is recommending the landscaping here to ensure that it looks nice and welcomes people to the community. Second is a residential buffer, especially where a portion of the development abuts the existing single family homes. Russett reiterated a traffic study was done to look at this rezoning and it determined that the existing lane configuration and stop control at North Dodge Street and ACT Circle would not provide an acceptable level of service. The traffic study recommends a few things, first is a traffic signal so that it becomes a signalized intersection, second is the installation of a fourth leg off the traffic circle that would provide access to the subject property. The traffic study also recommends a dedicated northbound right turn lane so if one is heading out of town on North Dodge Street there would be a dedicated right turn lane into the subject property and if they are heading south on North Dodge Street there's a dedicated left bound turn lane to turn into the property. Russett confirmed the City Engineer does concur with the findings of this study. Russett also wanted to note the City will be the one installing the traffic signal and the pedestrian components, that's something was already planned. Other conditions will be the City would like the applicant to explore the existing sanitary sewer in the area, that the land be subdivided to help identify streets, lots, and block network, they're also requesting the installation of a 10' wide sidewalk on the eastern portion of North Dodge Street from North Scott Boulevard and the sidewalk will run from North Scott Boulevard to the proposed intersection at ACT Circle, and that 10' wide sidewalk could accommodate bicycles and pedestrians. Then related to that intersection, the applicant will be responsible for installing the southbound left turn lane and the northbound right turn lane at the future intersection at North Dodge Street and ACT Circle and installing that fourth leg to provide access to their property. Russett noted the applicant has also expressed an interest in having another access to the north of ACT Circle off of Dodge Street and that would need to be approved by both the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT so the condition that staff is recommending is that any request for an additional access up on North Dodge Street be limited to right in, right out only. The final condition is that flow study related to the sanitary sewer system. Staff recommends approval of REZ25-0008, a request to rezone approximately 33.64 acres of land along North Dodge Street and south of 1-80 to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 11 of 22 subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. If sewage from the area being rezoned will be conveyed to the Highlander Lift Station, a flow study shall be prepared for the Highlander Lift Station. 3. Prior to site plan approval, commercial areas along N. Dodge St that abut either North Dodge Street or land that is zoned residential must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located along North Dodge Street, which is an important gateway to the City, as well as in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. 4. Prior to issuance of a building permit, installation of 10' wide sidewalk on the eastern/southern portion of the North Dodge Street right-of-way between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 5. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for a southbound left -turn lane and northbound right -turn lane on North Dodge Street at ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 6. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for the 4th leg of the ACT Circle / North Dodge Street intersection subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 7. Any request for an additional driveway access to the subject property north of the North Dodge Street/ACT Circle intersection shall be limited to a right-in/right-out access only. This access requires review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Russett stated this rezoning would be on the same timeline as the previous rezoning for next steps. Wade asked about the preliminary plat process and if that goes through Planning and Zoning or is just a City approval. Russett confirmed it does go through the Planning and Zoning Commission who would then make a recommendation to Council. Wade asked then if the final road design would be part of that preliminary plat. Russett stated presumably the preliminary plat will identify the proposed street network and then through the final platting process is when the actual design of the streets are finalized. Miller asked about the 30' buffer along Dodge Street and is the 10' sidewalk within that 30' buffer. Russett explained no, the 30' buffer is on the private property and the 10' sidewalk will be in the City's right of way and any development would start behind the 30' foot buffer. Davies asked with CC-2 zoning is it required to have the parking behind the buildings. Russett replied it does not require that and there could be parking between the street and the building. Miller noted further down on Dodge Street, across from Hy Vee, it was the City's preference on a past project to put the building closer to the road and conceal the parking, is that just a preference and is that dealt with on a case by case basis. Russett explained that's something Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 12 of 22 that the City did discuss with the applicant on this particular project, the Commission could make a recommendation to add a condition related to parking but the applicant can probably speak better to their concerns with that. She also noted the street network for this area is unknown, there could be lots that are fronted on three sides so trying to figure out the parking may end with some being behind the building and others not. If the goal is to ensure that there's no parking along North Dodge Street that's something that could be considered, but there probably will be a need for at least some parking located between the street and the building. Davies asked if there has been any discussion about the ACT road that proceeds to the north and then just dead ends, is the plan still to have that just remain as a dead end. Russett replied that is something to be figured out as part of the subdivision process. Miller stated regarding the building frontage question, is it in the subdivision process that there'd be more detail about the building. Russett explained likely not, because it would just be the lots and streets, and the preliminary plat will have no information on the buildings. Davies asked if it would be possible at that time for staff or the Commission to make a recommendation about that Russett stated they have never added conditions to a preliminary plat they've always been done at the rezoning stage. Miller stated with the buffer they're probably okay as it covers that walkability and entry corridor aesthetics. He assumes the type of businesses that would want to go here probably would encourage pedestrian oriented development, attractive, functional streetscapes to make it comfortable to walk and the sidewalks on both sides. Russett noted because of that language in the Comprehensive Plan staff is adding those conditions about the sidewalk along North Dodge Street so there's a way to accommodate other modes of transportation. This is a CC-2 zone and it does allow things like drive throughs, for example, through special exceptions, which are not necessarily pedestrian friendly so through that process the City tries to incorporate connections for pedestrians to the building. Miller noted the other language that stuck out at him in one of the conditions was the City's priorities to discourage strip retail. What language in CC-2 discourages that because he feels like that might be attractive to have a strip retail in this area. Russett explained the zone would allow the uses that are allowed in the zone, it's the subdivision process that is really important identifying street connections and actual blocks and lots. There could potentially be strip development here, there's nothing that would not allow that. Davies asked if the sidewalk on North Dodge Street is the applicant's responsibility or City's. Russett stated it is the applicants. Wade remembers back when ACT Circle used to go up to ACT and then it was abandoned and turned into grass, was that a DOT recommendation and will they have to review this now. Russett confirmed the DOT will have to be part of the approval for the intersection in addition to the City. Quellhorst opened the public hearing. Steve Long (Salida Partners) stated there's also a significant grade change from Dodge Street to this site, it ranges from 8' to 20' and that's even after a regrade for whatever is going to be built Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 13 of 22 there. He also confirmed there was a road that connected there but ACT removed it in 2002, so they'll be following essentially the same path of that road that was taken out. He also stated the building seen there will be taken down, the original ACT building, the Lindquist Building, it was abandoned during COVID and heating and cooling was shut off so the police department has been using it for practice, and it's filled with mold. Long stated they are happy about the 10' sidewalk for connectivity, actually everything that's suggested they're fine with noting it's going to improve their development with the improvements to the traffic, the extra turn lanes, etc. He reiterated they've had a lot of interest for commercial development for this area, without even advertising. As far as the frontage, they also want to make the development pedestrian friendly from the inside of the development as there's going to be hundreds of units on the east side of the development, so the west side or along Dodge Street/Highway One there are something like 28,000 cars a day on Dodge Street and Interstate 80 is close to 40,000 so they were thinking if they keep the commercial closer to the east and make it more accommodating to the residents to the east, but they'll figure that out through the site planning process. Quellhorst closed the public hearing. Davies moved to recommend approval of REZ25-0008, a request to rezone approximately 33.64 acres of land along North Dodge Street and south of 1-80 to Community Commercial (CC-2) zone subject to the following conditions: 1. Prior to issuance of any building permits, the subject area shall go through the subdivision process and obtain approval of a preliminary and final plat. 2. Prior to final plat approval, a flow study shall be prepared for the full length of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer to its point of connection with the North Branch Dam Trunk Sewer. If any of the existing sections of the North Branch of the Northeast Trunk sewer do not have the capacity to support the full buildout of the area being rezoned, upgrades will need to be made and accepted by the City prior to the issuance of any building permits. If sewage from the area being rezoned will be conveyed to the Highlander Lift Station, a flow study shall be prepared for the Highlander Lift Station. 3. Prior to site plan approval, commercial areas along N. Dodge St that abut either North Dodge Street or land that is zoned residential must include landscaped buffer strips that do not allow any development. These strips shall be located on the commercial property, shall be 30' wide, shall be located along North Dodge Street, which is an important gateway to the City, as well as in areas that abut residential zones, and shall be landscaped according to the plan that is approved by the City Forester. 4. Prior to issuance of a building permit, installation of 10' wide sidewalk on the eastern/southern portion of the North Dodge Street right-of-way between North Scott Boulevard and ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 5. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for a southbound left -turn lane and northbound right -turn lane on North Dodge Street at ACT Circle subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required prior to issuance of building permits. 6. Prior to final plat approval, submission of construction drawings for the 4th leg of the ACT Circle / North Dodge Street intersection subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Installation of improvements shall be required Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 14 of 22 prior to issuance of building permits. 7. Any request for an additional driveway access to the subject property north of the North Dodge Street/ACT Circle intersection shall be limited to a right-in/right-out access only. This access requires review and approval by the City Engineer and the Iowa DOT. Wade seconded the motion. Davies stated he generally supports this item and will be very curious to see how the streets shake out as it seems tricky, but an important part of it. Wade stated he is glad to see it come together. Townsend agreed noting it's long overdue and that land has been sitting there for quite a while, so it'll be interesting to see what goes up there. Miller stated he is in support of it Quellhorst agrees and notes Commissioner Miller asked some good questions about tasteful development and doing what they can to prevent strip malls or any other kind of distasteful commercial development. A lot still has to be done, and it will come down to doing a good job of planning and plats and he has got confidence in the staff to do that appropriately. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. CASE NO. REZ25-0009: Location: 2510 N. Dodge Street An application for a rezoning of approximately 37.9 acres of land from Research Development Park (RDP) zone to Intensive Commercial (CI-1) zone. Russett stated this is the former Pearson site at North Dodge Street with Interstate 80 to the south and Moss Ridge Road to the north. It's currently zoned Research Development Park, similar to that ACT property, where it envisions office parks or research firms, to the west is land that was rezoned to CI-1 a few years ago, and there is CH-1 Highway Commercial to the east. Russett stated this land was annexed into the City in the 1970s, it was initially developed for Westinghouse Educational Services and was later transferred to Pearson in 2014 and the City approved a rezoning of the property from Office Research Park to Research Development Park. The former Pearson site was recently purchased by GSD North Dodge LLC after it sat vacant for nearly five years and the new owners are looking to repurpose the existing buildings with a variety of land uses, including office, indoor commercial recreational uses, warehousing, retail, restaurants and many of those uses are not allowed in the current Research Development Park zone. The Research Development Park zone is pretty limited to large office and research firms. The Intensive Commercial zone allows a variety of different land uses but is a more intense zoning designation than the Community Commercial that was just discussed. The Intensive Commercial zone allows things like warehousing and freight movement, which the applicant is interested in continuing, it does not allow residential uses and it also allows indoor commercial recreation uses which the applicant can speak to as they've had some interest for some sporting Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 15 of 22 facilities. The CI-1 zone does provide more flexibility for a variety of commercial uses Again, the approval criteria is consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and compatibility with the existing neighborhood character. Russett stated the Comprehensive Plan identifies this area as appropriate for Office Research Development Center ad the Plan has lots of text in it related to how this is a major employment center. Obviously, all of that was written prior to those businesses vacating these sites and the need for office space has significantly diminished since this Plan was adopted. The former Pearson site has been vacant for five years, there's a lack of demand for office space so a rezoning really is needed to reuse this area. The Northeast District Plan recognizes that there needs to be some flexibility in the uses that are envisioned for this area, even though the Future Land Use Map shows that it's appropriate for Office Research Development. The Plan recognizes that it might be identifying more land than could be accommodated for Office Research, it notes that it may be unrealistic and that there are alternative uses that could be appropriate in these locations, two of which the applicant is particularly interested in continuing, the recreational uses for the sporting facility and the warehousing uses. In terms of compatibility with existing neighborhoods the surrounding land allows similar uses, all of the land to the west is also zoned CI-1. There's I-80 to the south, North Dodge Street to the east, and also Highway Commercial to the east. Staff recommends approval of REZ25-0009, an application to rezone approximately 37.9 acres of land at 2510 N. Dodge Street from Research Development Park (RDP) zone to Intensive Commercial (CI-1) zone. In terms of our timeline, after a recommendation from the Commission this will be moved forward to the City Council. Quellhorst opened the public hearing. Ed O'Connor (Geifman Group) stated they are extremely excited about this property, they've owned the property for just a few months, and it's honestly been thrilling and exciting. The buzz, the energy to revitalize this property has been immense. They have three current tenants lined up, an office user on the front portion, a data center user with a large office use and then sports facility, why they're here today for the rezoning, League One Volleyball Iowa United has high aspirations for this corner to not only use it immediately, but long term expansions on the property that will require additions and renovations. O'Conner stated their commitment is to revitalize this corner and really just bring it back and this rezoning is required for the usages that they have lined up. He noted this corner has quite obviously been in need of some attention for some time and they have some major exterior facade enhancements as the tongue and groove wood siding is not exactly appealing anymore. They've already cleared out a lot of dead trees that were there for far too long and they haven't even owned the property for two months. Miller asked with the three uses he described it feels like it might be a little hard to mesh together, like a more public oriented sports thing with data center and offices. O'Conner agreed the data center with a large indoor sports facility is odd, the unique part about the data center is they actually want their customers and clients to come in and view the data center. It will be a high security center with a vast office area north of 40,000 square feet, plus the data center, which is 20,000 square feet. O'Conner stated their major concern with the property was that center building that was rehabbed by Pearson but in actually less than two months they've Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 16 of 22 already found a usage for all three facilities and that's why there is significant energy behind this. They believe the mixed uses actually is a testament to what the campus can be and should be in the future. They've hired the best with Shive to delineate and make sure that they are meeting all requirements with those usages. He noted as a matter of fact, the unique part is they really are three independent buildings and are separated in every sense but they have links of walkways to connect them. But they are all separate and delineated, even from a fire standpoint and a life safety standpoint. Miller asked so the plan is basically a small office on the left, data center with office in the middle and the volleyball thing on the right. O'Conner replied actually what they reference as the plaza, which was renovated by Pearson from 2016 to 2019, and then obviously COVID hit their plan is to modify the exterior to make it look like the interior (the inside has some brand new office space) and they have a user for that plaza right portion, about 145,000 square feet. He noted the exterior facade enhancements are going to be extensive. Then to the southwest there's a 200' link that they have aspirations to remove, so it is more of a separation, and then they can bring more trails and more outside, inside. He stated right now it actually looks like there's more building, because that 200' link but it is two and because the future is not one big campus, it's multiple uses they will remove that. The property closer to I-80 is the center building that will be a large office use adjacent to the data center, which is the piece that's built into the hill like a concrete bunker. Then to the north is where the volleyball user is planning to go, which had been a warehouse, it's 55,000 square feet with 22' ceiling height. They're going to use that temporarily this late fall and then they will add an addition to the north to get the full breadth of the 32' ceiling height required for volleyball. Davies asked if the parking sufficient for all the uses and do they have any changes envisioned there. O'Conner confirmed there will have to be some modifications because the volleyball user to the north would likely encompass some of that parking lot. Currently, he believes they have plenty of parking for the proposed usages. Quellhorst closed the public hearing Miller moved to recommend approval of REZ25-0009, an application to rezone approximately 37.9 acres of land at 2510 N. Dodge Street from Research Development Park (RDP) zone to Intensive Commercial (CI-1) zone. Townsend seconded the motion. Davies stated he is very supportive and loves the creative adaptive reuse. He thought that property was going to be sitting vacant for a very long time as he didn't see another large office user taking it over. His only concerns are just it has very large parking lots and he would love to see less parking or maybe it broken up in a little bit different way but overall is generally supportive of the whole concept. Townsend agreed it's nice to see that whole area being used and repurposed as opposed to tearing down an amazing building. Miller agrees about just the exciting mix of uses and adaptive reuse, it's exciting to see this area of town start to be reused. Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 17 of 22 A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. ZONING CODE TEXT AMENDMENT ITEMS: CASE NO. REZ25-0012: Consideration of an amendment to 14-51K Neighborhood Open Space Requirements Schaefer explained the proposed ordinance is an amendment to the City's Neighborhood Open Space requirements that were initially adopted in 1994. The Neighborhood Open Space dedication requirement is for developers to set aside land for parks or pay a fee in lieu of land dedication to be used by the City's Parks and Recreation Department to acquire and develop park facilities for the community. This requirement ensures that those responsible for creating the need for new parks cover the cost rather than existing residents in the community. Schaefer reviewed the current formula used to decide how much required open space dedication is needed for development. The current formula used to calculate that requirement is acres of undeveloped property multiplied by the maximum dwelling units allowed per undeveloped acre of the property being developed and that is multiplied by 65% which is a rough estimate of the average development density of Iowa City. That then is further multiplied by persons per dwelling unit based on the most recent census and then multiplied by 3/1000 which is the community standard of the goal of requiring three acres of neighborhood park space per 1000 people. Schaefer stated the reason the City is needing to update the code is because there's been several zoning code updates since 1994 when this was originally approved. The main issue with the existing formula is it is based on the requirement to utilize maximum density, which causes several problems. One of those problems is in residential zones. Since 1994 the City has allowed more housing types (duplexes, attached single family housing types) and all of those things contribute to an increased maximum density than what was originally envisioned in 1994. The formula is also not calculable for projects in Riverfront Crossing and the Central Business District because there is no maximum density for those districts. Also, the form based zones again allow an even wider range of housing types and that creates a very high maximum density for those properties if they were to be rezoned to form based code districts. Schaefer noted even though the City allows that maximum density, they don't foresee any developer building to maximum for those sites so the requirements end up being a little overbearing for those properties. The current requirements also create a burden for small infill projects such as having one lot that a single homeowner is simply trying to divide into two, the fees tend to be a barrier to get that done. The goal of the update is to remove density as the main part of the calculation and adopt a formula that works for all zoning districts and works within the City's goals and budget that is reasonable and approachable for developers and subdividers. Schaefer stated for proposed amendments there's four main sections, applicability and the procedures of the code, the formula itself, the addition of a dedication cap, or maximum amount of land to be dedicated, and then the neighborhood Open Space District Boundary Map. The first change is related to the applicability of the code, the current ordinance applies the Neighborhood Open Space requirements to residential subdivisions, commercial subdivisions containing residential uses, and planned developments. The proposed amendment simplifies the process by simply stating that the requirement is required at preliminary plat stage which recognizes that the major developments, including most planned developments, already go Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 18 of 22 through preliminary platting where infrastructure and unit layout are determined, making it an appropriate point to assess open space needs. It also exempts smaller projects like the division of one lot, that only require a final plat, as those are typically follow ups to earlier subdivisions that have already accounted for open space. This update improves clarity, avoids duplication and ensures the requirements align with the scale and the timing of the proposed development. Regarding a change in the formula, Iowa City's ordinance was compared to 18 other jurisdictions that require Neighborhood Open Space dedication, and the new formula was selected based on its alignment with the updates, goals, and conformance with best practices informed by the research that they conducted on those other jurisdictions, and then also ease of use between the developer and staff. The updated formula is number of units times person per dwelling units, based on the most recent census, times 3/1000 again, that's three acres per 1000 residents. Schaefer noted the new formula is basically taking out the density requirement and relating the density to the land and going strictly for the number of units being proposed as the means in which they're calculating. She explained because the City zoning districts vary significantly in how and when unit counts are established, they incorporated into this new formula a flexible method for estimating unit numbers at the time of preliminary plat. For example, in single family residential zones the lot size provides a reliable proxy for unit count, since lots are typically platted individually for those units being proposed in single family. In multifamily residential zones and commercial zones it gets a little bit more complicated as unit counts are not known until later in the development process, typically. So instead of each platted lot, staff would determine the maximum dwelling units that could be allowed and it would be adjusted by that estimated 65% build out, which offers a consistent estimate for those specific lots that can fluctuate unit count wise after preliminary plat. This allows staff to not have to go back and recalculate those units if they do change after preliminary plat and then in the Riverfront Crossings and east side mixed use districts, where flexibility and mixed use configurations are common, the applicant will provide an estimated unit count at preliminary plat, with final numbers being verified at final plat. For the form based zones staff will get unit numbers from the neighborhood plan, which is much more specific for the form based code districts. The neighborhood plan shows the building types the developers are proposing and that'll have an accurate unit count. Similarly, for OPDs (Planned Development Overlays) they will get a total unit count from their OPD plan. In addition to changing that calculation, staff is also proposing the addition of a dedication cap and that will cap the requirement for Neighborhood Open Space at 10% of the total site area. After calculating the required open space staff will compare those results to the 10% of the total site area, and if it's greater than that they will default to that maximum dedication. This cap is needed to ensure the requirement remains reasonable, particularly in high density or mixed use developments where the formula could otherwise generate an open space requirement that consumes an excessive portion of the site. Without a cap projects in areas like Riverfront Crossings or the form based zones where unit counts are high but land is limited, could face unrealistic dedication expectations that hinder development feasibility on those sites. Wade asked if the intention of the cap is to ensure that developers do not dedicate more than 10%. Schaefer confirmed it is to ensure that they're not required to dedicate more than 10% and the intent is because when they do the calculations in some of the very dense zones with small lots and high unit counts the calculation works out where it could be something greater than what's actually on the site. For those super dense sites, staff needs some way to control and be able to actually develop those sites without all of the land used up with open space dedications. Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 19 of 22 Schaefer stated the last part of the change is the Neighborhood Open Space District Boundary Map and explained these maps are utilized when instead of getting land as part of the requirement the City instead gets a fee in lieu of land. She explained the money from those fees taken in must be utilized within the same district boundaries and that's what they utilize the maps for. Currently, the map is housed in the Parks Master Plan, a totally separate document than where these requirements live, so the first thing staff is proposing is to bring this map into the zoning code so it's with the requirements. Staff is also proposing to revise the boundaries by consolidating several subareas into larger districts. When discussing the implementation of this ordinance with Parks and Rec staff it was noted that the current boundaries are too segmented, which can make land acquisition and use of fee in lieu funds restrictive and difficult. By expanding and consolidating these boundaries they are providing Parks and Recreation a little bit more flexibility as to where they can use these funds. Schaefer noted this is especially needed because there is a time limit on when those funds are used, Parks and Rec has five years to use those funds or return them. Again, this allows them more flexibility to move to a different area. Schaefer stated the fee in lieu can go to acquire property or it can also be used to improve existing park systems. She shared the new map districts and noted they also expanded the district boundaries to incorporate growth boundaries for when they acquire and annex land. She then shared some examples of how the change in the formula would impact the dedication requirements. Wade noted it would make sense to use major arterial roads as boundary lines, so perhaps a few of the boundaries could be adjusted. Russett agreed that would be a good practice and it should be revised. Davies asked who determines whether to use fee and lieu or an actual dedication. Schaefer explained the code describes what they're looking for when it comes to open space and the City has the option to take what's offered or the fee in lieu. Quellhorst asked if that fee in lieu is a material part of the Parks budget. Schaefer stated no, because it fluctuates so much and there is no predicting timing of when developers come forward it's something they do appreciate and utilize fully, but not something that they build into their main budget line. Schaefer next shared some examples of the Riverfront Crossing districts and the form based code zones and some conceptual projects to give an idea of what it would look like using the current ordinance and then the updated one. Using the current ordinance open space fees in high density projects, particularly in areas like the Riverfront Crossing districts they would see numbers exceeding $1 million and ultimately that is hard to justify from a planning and policy standpoint and doesn't encourage that dense development that the City wishes to see in those zones. It creates a significant barrier to those type of compact, walkable developments that align with a lot of the City's other goals. So with the combination of the update and only requiring dedication for the actual units being proposed, and that 10% cap also ensures that the open space requirements remain reasonable, it makes sure that projects are feasible. Ultimately, these changes align actual development patterns while maintaining the City's goal of acquiring high quality open space as new housing is developed. Overall, the updated formula approves predictability, fairness and scalability across all the zoning districts without compromising the Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 20 of 22 City's open space objectives. Staff recommends that Title 14 zoning be amended, as illustrated in attachment one, to update the requirements related to Neighborhood Open Space dedication, to continue implementing the City's goal of providing adequate open space for the City's residents. Schaefer stated if there's a positive recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission, they're looking at September 16 to get all the way through the process. Quellhorst commented on the wording of the proposed text of the dedication cap, it says the maximum amount of land to be dedicated is 10% of the total acres of land being developed and it might be worth considering saying something like the maximum amount of land required to be dedicated onto this section will not exceed just to clarify that if somebody wants to dedicate more than that they could and it wouldn't be prohibitive. Townsend asked about the five year limit and how much money does the City have and how much have they lost by not utilizing that. Russett stated they use it all, they find a way. Davies asked how land is identified and then converted to space. Russett stated typically if they get a subdivision application they will talk with Parks if there is an interest in acquiring any of the land for park space. It really is a conversation with Parks staff to see if it makes sense to locate a park in the area, if there's enough land to have a park, but in many cases they will take the fee in lieu of land dedication. It is up to the City, the developer can propose to give land for a park but if the City is not interested in that land for a park, as oftentimes it's heavily wooded and sloped and is just not usable, the City will request the fees. Davies asked if there is any concern that this would encourage less dense development. Schaefer stated that is the main reason they added that 10% cap to help not deter development any more than what the current ordinance is doing and if anything, hopefully it promotes development. Davies asked if staff has heard specifically from developers that this is a particular pain point as he would just hate to see less space or less money dedicated to parks. Russett stated the main reason they're doing this is the current code is unworkable. They have a formula that's based on maximum density, they have zones that don't have maximum density, they have zones that encourage so much housing and a diversity of housing the fees that would be required are unreasonable, so they want to encourage development and the proposed formula is definitely better in terms of encouraging infill development and encouraging high density development. Wade moved to recommend that Title 14 zoning be amended, as illustrated in attachment one and as they've been amended by the Commission and staff this evening regarding updating the map and dedication cap language, to update the requirements related to Neighborhood Open Space dedication, to continue implementing the City's goal of providing adequate open space for the City's residents. Townsend seconded the motion. Davies stated he is all for simplifying and removing the requirement for smaller split infill Planning and Zoning Commission July 16, 2025 Page 21 of 22 developments. He generally has concern about dedicating less land and less money to park improvements but can see why it is prohibitive to development, and it needs to be simplified so generally supportive. Miller agreed that old formula was confusing. Quellhorst agrees it streamlines things nicely and he appreciates the proposal and the comparison to similarly situated communities. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: JULY 2 2025: Miler moved to approve the meeting minutes from July 2, 2025. Townsend seconded the motion, a vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0. PLANNING AND ZONING INFORMATION: Craig noted this year the Iowa Legislature passed House File 706 which modified Iowa's Open Meetings Law and increased the penalty for Open Meeting violations, and so as part of that change the City is recommending that Commissions not go into closed session unless they've received a written memo from the City Attorney's Office or one of the attorneys had made a recommendation on the record that going into closed session is acceptable. The reason for that is the defense to that violation is they've received and relied upon the reasonable advice of an attorney in going into closed session. Craig stated another change to the Open Meetings Law was that board and commission members in Iowa that were appointed after July 1 are now required to undergo a one to two hour training that's been approved by the Iowa Public Information Board. As part of that, the City Attorney's Office and City Council would like all board and commission members to undergo that training for consistency's sake and given the new increased penalties for Open Meeting violations. There is a training that's being offered by the Iowa Public Information Board on August 26 and staff can supply more information about that. It will be an online training, and they'll provide some kind of certification that the City will keep a record of. Russett noted there will be no meeting on August 20, but instead on August 27. Schaefer noted tomorrow's is her last day as she is moving to Syracuse, New York, it was great working with all. ADJOURNMENT: Townsend moved to adjourn, Davies seconded and the motion passed 5-0. PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD 2024-2025 2/7 2/21 4/3 5/1 6/26 9/4 9/18 11/20 12/4 2/19 3/5 5/7 6/4 6/18 7/2 7/16 B E I N I N G, KAL E B -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X O DAVIES, JAMES -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X CRAIG, SUSAN X X X X X X X X X X X X X X -- -- -- -- ELLIOTT, MAGGIE O/E X X X O/E X X O/E X X X X X X X O/E HENSCH, MIKE X X X X X O/E X X X X O/E X X X -- -- -- -- MILLER, STEVE -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X X X X X X X O/E X X PADRON, MARIA X X O/E O/E -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- QUELLHORST, SCOTT X X O/E X X X X O/E X X X X X X X X TOWNSEND, BILLIE X X X X X X X O/E X X X X X X X X WADE, CHAD X X X O/E X X X X X X X X X X X X KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused --- = Not a Member Item Number: 4.d. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT August 19, 2025 Senior Center Commission: May 15 Attachments: Senior Center Commission: May 15 Approved Minutes May 15, 2025 MINUTES SENIOR CENTER COMMISSION May 15, 2025 Room 311, Iowa City Senior Center Members Present: Nancy Ostrognai, Jay Gilchrist, Kate Milster, Lee McKnight, Warren, Betty Rosse Members Absent: Mary McCall Staff Present: LaTasha DeLoach, Kristin Kromray Others Present: None CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by Gilchrist at 4.00 PM. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM THE APRIL 17, MEETING: Motion: To accept the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting. Motion carried on a 4/0 vote. Paris/McKnight PUBLIC DISCUSSION: 1► •17T� OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW: DeLoach reported May is a very busy month. The appreciation event at Terry Trueblood was successful. Commissioner Milster was able to receive the Older Americans month proclamation at City Council meeting. Frisbee Fest was a well received intergeneration event. Commissioner Rosse joined the meeting. There are many concerts in May including New Horizons Band, Voices of Experience, Family Folk Machine, and Senior Standing Room Only. 1 Approved Minutes May 15, 2025 The temperature control work will begin soon. The door and window project will start this fall. Commission Discussion Gilchrist asked about interns, asking if Skylar was still an intern this summer. LaTasha noted that the Senior Center normally has a few interns each year, normally in the spring. She discussed the difference between interns and work study students. The Senior Center also employs work study students when funding is available. Milster asked for a name tag. Commissioners asked for additional updates on classes and discussed asking Michelle Buhman to a future meeting. The next Commission meeting will be held in July as the Senior Center will be closed on June 19t" for the Juneteenth holiday. Commissioners discussed Juneteenth programming in the community. Meeting Adjourned. 2 Approved Minutes May 15, 2025 Senior Center Commission Attendance Record Term 6/20/24 7/18/24 8/15/24 9/19/24 10/17/2 11/21/ 12/19/ 1/16/25 2/20/25 3/20/25 4/17/25 5/15/25 Name Expires 24 24 24 Betty 12/31/26 NM NM O/E X X X O/E X X NM O/E X Rosse Jay 12/31/25 NM NM X X O/E X X X X NM X X Gilchrist Mary 12/31/27 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X O/E NM X O/E McCall Angela 12/31/24 NM NM X X X O/E X -- -- -- -- -- McConville Lee 12/31/27 NM NM X X X O/E O/E O/E X NM X X McKnight Kathryn 12/31/27 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- X X NM X X Milster Nancy 12/31/26 NM NM X X X X X X X NM X X Ostrognai Ross 12/31/24 -- -- O X O O O -- -- -- -- -- Taylor Warren 12/31/25 NM NM O X O X X O/E X NM X X Paris Key: X =Present 0 =Absent O/E =Absent/Excused NM =No meeting -- = Not a member Item Number: 4.e. CITY OF IOWA CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT August 19, 2025 Parks & Recreation Commission: July 9 Attachments: Parks & Recreation Commission: July 9 IOWA CITY PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION APPROVED MINUTES OF JULY 9, 2025 ROBERT A. LEE RECREATION CENTER — MEETING ROOM B Members Present: Connie Moore, Brian Morelli, Michael Gaunt, Virginia Hayes, Jeff Mallory, Rachel McPherson, Caleb Recker, Alex Stanton Members Absent: Missie Forbes Staff Present: Juli Seydell Johnson, Tyler Baird, Brad Barker, Gabe Gotera Others Present: Anne Jensen CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Moore called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. RECOMMENDATIONS TO COUNCIL: (to become effective only after separate Council action): None OTHER FORMAL ACTION: Moved by Mallory, seconded by Morelli, to approve the May 12, 2025, minutes. Motion passed 8-0 (Forbes absent). PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA: None 2026-2031 PARKS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS UPDATE — Parks and Recreation Dir. Juli Seydell Johnson Dir. Seydell Johnson presents the attached PowerPoint, Capitol Projects Update. Vice Chair Morelli, regarding the City Park Pool project, asks how late into the year will crews be able to work? Dir. Seydell Johnson responds that the answer would be dependent on weather conditions. The plan is for the crews to get the bathhouse exterior built, then work on the interior during the winter, allowing them to work throughout the year. Seydell Johnson expects for most of the cement for the pool to be poured during fall 2025. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 2 of 8 Commissioner Stanton, regarding the set of park projects currently in progress, asks what will happen if the contractors haven't finished the projects by the late September deadline. Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that crews wouldn't be able to work over the winter, and staff would have to either rebid for a new contractor or do more of the work internally. Commissioner McPherson asks if this specific contractor had been used before for past projects? Seydell Johnson responds that the general contractor has not been used before, but that the subcontractor has been contracted many times. Commissioner Recker, regarding the roof repairs of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center natatorium, asks how much was the final bid approved for by City Council? Dir. Seydell Johnson says that she is does not know the exact number but that she can get back to him with the amount. Vice Chair Morelli, regarding a set of projects at the Senior Center, Animal Shelter, Fire Station, and City Hall, asks why these projects would fall under the Parks and Recreation Department? Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that the department handles facility management for the city including the custodial and maintenance tasks for the buildings that Morelli referred to. Seydell Johnson clarifies that the actual budgets for the Capital Improvement Projects are not from Parks and Recreation, and that they projects show up on the list because Parks and Recreation staff manage the facilities. Commissioner Stanton, regarding the Senior Center Exterior Doors & Windows project, asks if the Senior Center will be required to close at any point? Dir. Seydell Johnson responds that any closures of the entrances would be in stages and only for a day or two occasionally. Commissioner Recker, regarding the Napoleon Softball Fields 5-8 Renovations project, asks if the project is in relations to the dugouts and back stops. Supt. Baird explains that the project improvements will include adding back stops, re -grading the infields and outfields, adding drainage, and fixing ADA access on the paths. Commissioner Recker, regarding the Carson Lake Park Retention Basin project, asks if the project is funded by the Parks and Recreation budget? Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that the project is managed by the Engineering department, but that the facility will eventually become part of the Parks and Recreation department after completion, akin to the Terry Trueblood Recreation Area. Commissioner Hayes, regarding the Carson Lake Park Rendition Basin project and the Palisades Park Development project, asks where are these areas located? Supt. Baird describes Carson Lake as being on the far -west side of Iowa City, north of the Iowa City Menards, west of Highway 218, and south of Rohret Rd. Baird describes the Palisades Park Development as being in the Palisades subdivision, behind the Hy-Vee on North Dodge St. Commissioner McPherson, regarding the Cemetery Columbarium Expansion project, asks if this implies that the Cemetery land will be expanded. Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that a columbarium is a wall where cremains are interred. Currently, there are a couple columbaria in the cemetery and the project would expand or build another structure for people to place cremans. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 3 of 8 Commissioner Mallory asks if the Indoor Pool UV Disinfectant Systems project is for both indoor pools at the Robert A. Lee Rec Center and the Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Dir. Seydell Johnson confirms that the project would install UV disinfectant systems at both indoor pools. Commissioner McPherson, regarding the Mercer Lobby & Classroom Roof Repairs project, asks if the roof at Mercer is more in need of repair than the roof at Robert A. Lee? Dir. Seydell Johnson confirms that the roof at Mercer is in more need of repair than at other facilities. Commissioner Recker, regarding the Park Paving Improvements project, asks what kind of surfacing is at Scott Park? Dir. Seydell Johnsons explains that section of paths near Rita's Ranch dog park is paved, while the rest of the park is closer to a gravel seal coat. Recker asks if the seal coat would be getting reapplied? Seydell Johnson responds that the rest of the park would be getting paved with the CIP project Vice Chair Morelli, regarding the Hickory Hill Park New Scott Boulevard Entrance project, asks how much more use is staff expecting from having new entrances to the park? Dir. Seydell Johnson expects usage to come from the nearby housing being developed near the proposed entrance. It would also benefit from having a larger space for parking than at other entrances. Supt. Baird add that it would be seen as an accessible entrance for regional visitors, as the entrances beyond 1st Ave are difficult to find unless you are already familiar with the area. Commission Mallory asks about the 2016 Parks Masterplan as he was under the impression that there was a more recent 2022 Masterplan. Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that the 2022 masterplan was the Recreation Masterplan. The 2016 Parks Masterplan looked at the active areas of the park system, followed closely by a 2017 Natural Areas Plan, a 2019 Tree Inventory, and the 2022 Recreation Program and Facility Masterplan. Seydell Johnson says that some municipalities will combine all four of these documents into one plan, while Iowa City instead has four separate major planning documents. Chair Moore, refers to the H2O boat rental building at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (TTRA) and asks what is the expected future of kayaking at Sand Lake and can staff do anything to help raise the water level? Dir. Seydell Johnon responds that staff are unable to fill the lake themselves. Staff have been waiting to see if the lake would refill naturally before allowing boat rentals, but now it's looking uncertain if kayaking will be possible again. Staff have discussed, if kayaking is not an option, could the building be used as a recreational programming space? Seydell Johnson says that there is not enough traffic on the trails to warrant it being a concession stand on its own. On the topic of water levels, Dir. Seydell Johnson acknowledges that staff has received many calls regarding the pond at Thornberry Dog Park. The pond at Thornberry has been closed for some time due to low water levels. Seydell Johnson explains that the pond must be raised naturally and cannot be refilled by staff. Commissioner McPherson has heard public feedback regarding the Riverside Festival Stage in Lower City Park. McPherson explains that patrons have complained about the volume of birds PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 4 of 8 sitting on/near the festival stage and asks if there is anything to do to prevent the birds from sitting near the stage. Dir. Seydell Johnson recommends having Riverside Theater reach out to her and notes that there are no further renovations on the stage planned at this time. Commissioner Recker asks if Capital Improvement Projects are prioritized at the discretion of staff or via public input? Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that most of the projects presented were based on the master plans, which had lots of public input in 2016. Every year since then, staff asses the state of the various facilities to determine if certain projects need to be moved forward to a sooner year (i.e. Moving a project forward due to more damage in the park shelters than originally anticipated). It would then be up to staff discretion if a project is to be moved up in the timeline. Seydell Johnson describes the master plans as a baseline, which is typically adjusted according to available budgets across all city departments. For example, a large road -project might take a higher percentage of funds in one year compared to the next. REPORTS ON ITEMS FROM CITY STAFF Parks and Recreation Director — Juli Seydell Johnson IA Open Meeting Law: Dir. Seydell Johnson announces that the State of Iowa has recently changed open meeting laws to include new trainings and penalties for all appointed to city boards and commissions. The penalties regarding the discussion of city business outside of public meetings has been substantially increased. The new trainings, to be required of all elected and appointed officials, will be further explained as a future agenda item and any future commissioners will go through the training during their onboarding process. Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST): Dir. Seydell Johnson explains that City Council is considering a public vote on a LOSST expected for Fall 2025. The LOSST is a sales tax with the exact percentages being worked out. Current expectations see approximately 10% of the money collected going towards public infrastructure including park projects. 50% of the sales tax would go towards property tax relief. A portion of the sales tax would go towards affordable housing and nonprofit partner organizations. Seydell Johnson expects for more information to be presented to the Commission over the next several months, specifically from a member of the City Manager's office. Iowa Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA): Dir. Seydell Johnson announces that the IPRA, an association that some department staff belong to, has recently changed their enrollment policies, allowing the Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department a larger agency membership. This would allow all department staff and commission members to be members of IPRA. Commissioner Mallory encourages the Commission to attend the annual IPRA conference. Mallory recently attended the 2025 conference in Coralville, IA and appreciated seeing the vendors, presentations, and finding lots of information on the happenings of Parks and Recreation. Supt. Baird says that the 2026 conference will be hosted in Sioux City before coming back to eastern Iowa in 2027. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 5 of 8 Recreation Superintendent — Brad Barker Mercer Park Aquatic Center Roof Replacement: Supt. Barker announces that the Mercer Park Aquatic Center (MPAC) roof replacement project had its bid approved at the 7/8/25 City Council meeting. The temporary closure of the MPAC pool is expected for August 4 — September 8, 2025. Barker explains that the hot sunny days of August make good conditions for roofing projects. Barker says that the main challenge is that both MPAC pool and City Park Pool will be closed, leaving only Robert A. Lee (RAL) pool open. Another factor are the different groups that utilize MPAC pool including the City High team, the Southwest Junior High team, and the Iowa City Eels swim club. With the swim team season starting on August 11, 2025, staff have already informed the swim clubs about the expected closure. Due to public consideration, the Recreation division is looking at how RAL pool can be used to accommodate for all the listed groups including the public and what operation hours would be necessary for such accommodations. Recreation Staff and Programing: Supt. Barker says that later in the week, interviews for the STEAM/Arts Recreation Program Supervisor position will be conducted. This position has been vacant since January 2025 but was recently approved to begin the hiring process. Supt. Barker announces that the pottery program has recently received two new kilns. The kilns were installed in the RAL Potter's Studio by Government Building staff, replacing the two older kilns. Supt. Barker says that the summer camp program is going well. There are 30 children enrolled in the program, which is on week three of eight. The summer camp is operating out of the Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Supt. Barker announces that there is a new intern working over the summer in the Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program. The intern is a therapeutic recreation student with the University of Iowa and has been helping with inclusive aid assistance at the summer camp. Supt. Barker describes the following group collaborations that the Recreation Division has been involved with since the start of the summer: - Staff were involved with the Juneteenth Celebration in the South District. - Staff assisted with the Arts Festival that took place in early June. - Staff provided strider bikes, pedal cars, and assisted the roller derby team with roller skating at the Downtown District Block Party. Commissioner McPherson asks for the title of the position that is being hired. Supt. Barker responds that the position is a Recreation Program Supervisor, with an area of concentration in STEAM, arts, Nature Education, and Camps. McPherson asks Barker to elaborate on what STEAM is. Barker explains that STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Commissioner Stanton asks, when City Park Pool reopens, is it expected for the summer camp program to return to the Ashton House? Supt. Barker responds that the program could potentially move to City Park, clarifying that the Ashton House is not an option as it is used primarily for AIR programming. City Park Pool will have a community space in the bath house that has PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 6 of 8 potential to be used for summer camp. Barker adds that this community space is expected to be used as rentals for the public. Commissioner Mallory explains that he had read in the city budget that there were only going to be two new hires in FY26 and asks, how is Recreation able to hire the new program supervisor? Supt. Barker explains that the new hire is a replacement of vacant position instead of a brand- new position. Commissioner Recker asks when the anticipated completion date of the school district softball field at Mercer Park is. Supt. Baird explains that the final completion is expected by spring 2026, but that contractors are working to have as much completed as possible by fall 2025. Baird adds that if the turf is established by the fall, then it would be grown by the time practices begin in the spring. Recker asks for confirmation that the first practices would be in spring. Baird responds that that is the plan should everything stay on schedule. Baird adds that school district is taking the lead on the project as the bulk of it is their work, clarifying that they would have more precise information on the topic. Parks and Forestry Superintendent — Tyler Baird Summer Maintenance: Supt. Baird says that the grass is still green across the city, explaining that it is rare for the grass to not be dormant by mid -July. Considering the amount of equipment that needs replacement, staff are working hard to keep on top of the grass mowed. Supt. Baird says that there will be playground installations happening in Lower City Park and at Adelaide Joy Rogers Park. Parks staff will be installing both playgrounds and have been coordinating with the contractor that is working on the rest of Adeliade Joy Rogers Park to determine which playground will be installed first. Baird explains that the playground being installed in Lower City Park is the playground that was removed from Upper City Park. Staffing: Supt. Baird says that the division has recently been short on staffing due to positions that were on injury or light duty impacting the work across the board. Baird announces that applications closed for an open position of Forestry Maintenance Worker 1. Baird says that there was a high number of applications with a strong application pool. Staff are hoping to get the position filled fast and have the new employee through onboarding quickly. CHAIRS REPORT None COMMISSION TIME/SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Commissioner McPherson says that she has been approached by five parents over the last few months, asking for more toddler equipment in the parks. McPherson asks that staff keep this in mind as parks renovations continue. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 7 of 8 Commissioner Stanton thanks Parks and Recreation staff for the help and presence at events downtown. Stanton appreciates the work done to bring stuff for kids to do as attendees. Commissioner Mallory suggests to his fellow Commissions to read through the city budget, noting that the City Manager's overview of the next three to four years is very sobering. Dir. Seydell Johnson explains where on the Finance Department's website to find both the budget and the City Manager's presentation on the topic. Chair Moore revisits a point of discussion from the May 2025 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, voicing interest in interpretive signs at both James Alan McPherson Park and Adelaide Joy Rogers Park to explain their namesake. Dir. Seydell Johnson says that this is already the plan for at least James Alan McPherson Park. ADJOURNMENT: Chairman Moore adjourns the meeting at 5:45 p.m. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION July 9, 2025 Page 8 of 8 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORD NAME o 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TERM EXPIRES Missie 12/31/25 O/E X NM O/E NM X NM X X X NM O/E Forbes Michael 12/31/28 * * * * * X NM X X X NM X Gaunt Virginia 12/31/27 X O/E NM O/E NM X NM X X O/E NM X Hayes Jeff 12/31/28 * * * * * X NM X X O/E NM X Mallory Rachel 12/31/26 O/E O/E NM X NM O/E NM X O/E X NM X McPherson Connie 12/31/25 X X NM X NM X NM X X X NM X Moore Brian 12/31/25 X X NM X NM X NM X X X NM X Morelli Caleb 12/31/26 O/E X NM X NM X NM X O/E O/E NM X Recker Alex 12/31/27 X X NM X NM O/E NM X X X NM X Stanton KEY: X = Present O = Absent O/E = Absent/Excused NM = No meeting LQ = No meeting due to lack of quorum * = Not a member during this meeting